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AIM: To analyse and characterize the pattern of working and mobile phone usage distances(MPUD)for common users of electronic devices and computers.METHODS: Transversal descriptive study consisting of a screening campaign evaluating the visual status of different professionals working with computers or electronic devices more than 2h per day. A total of 100 healthy patients with a mean age of 41.2(range: 20-62)years were revised and subdivided according to job subgroups. A battery of screening tests was performed to all participants in a single session at the working environment of each of them, including measurement of the working distance(WD), arm length, and MPUD.RESULTS:The WD was significantly longer than MPUD(61.22±12.35 vs 32.22±6.35 cm; P

The registration of respiration through the left and right nostrils simultaneously makes it possible to register the dynamics and periodicity of the nasal cycle. For this purpose, an interface two-channel portable system has been developed for 24-hour recording of breathing through the two nostrils separately. The portable system can be used for multifunctional medical examinations under any conditions in patients with various anatomical and physiological disorders of breathing, sleep, and consciousness.

A compact integrated circuit is an intellectual property core at the heart of the decades of embedded devices on embedded systems. Using a microcontroller-based electronic module manufactured as desired or direct service of the board of Arduino as a control system for many purposes has become a certainty. Defining the problem formulations is related to the manufacture, assembly of the mechanical apparatus, and integrated wiring of several electronic modules. The acquisition of research contributions is expected to get the miniature embodiment of the physical machine equipped with a user program and perform the machine driver. The research methods consist of several steps to carry out each research objective. The miniature embodiment is carried out through (i) manufacturing and assembling to obtain the physical machine, (ii) integrating the electronic modules and all components and support systems by wiring to form an embedded system as a mini-PCB printing machine, and (iii) making a program structure based on Arduino IDE. Performing the machine driving mechanism is operating tests of calibration and moving on the axes of X, Y, and Z. Concluding based on the implementation process, testing, and analysis are carried out that the stages for performing the Mini PCB Printing Machine assisted by Arduino board with driven by GRBL Gru can be realized according to the initial design of hardware and software design.

Hybrid films for applications in organic electronics from NiFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) in poly(3,4 ethylene dioxythiophene), poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) were fabricated by the spin-coating technique. The films were characterized by infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive spectroscopy to subsequently determine their optical parameters. The electronic transport of the hybrid films was determined in bulk heterojunction devices. The presence of NiFe2O4 NPs reinforces mechanical properties and increases transmittance in the hybrid films; the PEDOT:PSS-NiFe2O4 NPs film is the one that has a maximum stress of 28 MPa and a Knoop hardness of 0.103, while the PMMA-NiFe2O4 NPs film has the highest transmittance of (87%). The Tauc band gap is in the range of 3.78–3.9 eV, and the Urbach energy is in the range of 0.24–0.33 eV. Regarding electrical behavior, the main effect is exerted by the matrix, although the current carried is of the same order of magnitude for the two devices: glass/ITO/polymer-NiFe2O4 NPs/Ag. NiFe2O4 NPs enhance the mechanical, optical, and electrical behavior of the hybrid films and can be used as semi-transparent anodes and as active layers.

Introduction: MBBS and nursing students spend a lot of time in near vision activities daily while studying. In the covid and post COVID-19 pandemic era, the emphasis on electronic teaching and studying has increased immensely. Students have started depending more on online studying, teaching and search for study material leading to more time being spent using electronic devices like mobile phones, tabs, PC etc. This can lead to lot of eye strain (digital eye strain) and this predisposes them to develop Non Strabismic Binocular Vision Anomalies (NSBVA) related to accommodation and convergence of eyes. Aim: To study prevalence of NSBVA and report associated ocular symptoms and association of electronic devices (mobile, laptop) use with prevalence NSBVA, in MBBS and nursing students of a teaching hospital in Western Maharashtra. Materials and Methods: This study was a prospective observational study conducted between November 2020 to April 2021at Rajiv Gandhi Medical College and CSM Hospital, Thane, Maharashtra, India. In this study, a total of 110 students including both MBBS and nursing students from all academic years of the hospital were examined for a comprehensive ophthalmic examination and complete binocular vision assessment. The prevalence of NSBVA, associated ocular symptoms, prevalence of refractive errors and duration of electronic device use in the students was documented. Student's t-test was used to compare the total daily duration of electronic devices (mobile, laptop, Computer tablets) use between students with and without NSBVA. Chi-square test was used to find association of variables duration of electronic device use and occurrence of NSBVA. results: Out of 110 students examined, there were 37.27% (n=41) were males and 62.72% (n=69) females. Age range was 18-30 years with mean age 21.85±2.67 years. Overall, 47 (42.72%) students had NSBVA including 34 MBBS and 13 nursing students. 12 (11%) students had ocular symptoms with NSBVA while 35 (31.8%) students had NSBVA without any ocular symptom. Eye strain was the most common ocular symptom. Average electronic device use was 4.53 hours/day. Most used electronic device was mobile phone. There was no association between NSBVA and electronic device use. conclusion: The NSBVA is highly prevalent among MBBS and nursing students. Ocular symptoms are absent in many students with NSBVA which may lead to delayed diagnosis and worsening of ocular symptoms due to NSBVA. Older age group of students have higher prevalence of NSBVA. Electronic device exposure is not significantly associated with NSBVA in these students. Screening of such at risk population is important for timely diagnosis and treatment of NSBVA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cotton Textile Technology is the property of Cotton Textile Technology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) and nursing students spend a lot of time in near vision activities daily while studying. In the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) and post pandemic era, the emphasis on electronic teaching and studying has increased immensely. Students have started depending more on online studying, teaching and search for study material leading to more time being spent using electronic devices like mobile phones, tabs, Personal Computer (PC), etc. This can lead to lot of eye strain (digital eye strain) and this predisposes them to develop Non Strabismic Binocular Vision Anomalies (NSBVA) related to accommodation and convergence of eyes. Aim: To study prevalence of NSBVA and report associated ocular symptoms and association of electronic devices (mobile, laptop) use with prevalence NSBVA, in MBBS and nursing students of a teaching hospital in Western Maharashtra. Materials and Methods: This study was a cross-sectional observational study conducted between November 2020 to April 2021 at Rajiv Gandhi Medical College and CSM Hospital, Thane, Maharashtra, India. In this study, a total of 110 students including both MBBS and nursing students from all academic years of the hospital were examined for a comprehensive ophthalmic examination and complete binocular vision assessment. The prevalence of NSBVA, associated ocular symptoms, prevalence of refractive errors and duration of electronic device use in the students was documented. Student’s t-test was used to compare the total daily duration of electronic devices (mobile, laptop, computer tablets) use between students with and without NSBVA. Chi-square test was used to find association of variables duration of electronic device use and occurrence of NSBVA. Results: Out of 110 students examined, there were 37.27% (n=41) were males and 62.72% (n=69) females. Age range was 18-30 years with mean age 21.85±2.67 years. Overall, 47 (42.72%) students had NSBVA including 34 MBBS and 13 nursing students. 12 (11%) students had ocular symptoms with NSBVA while 35 (31.8%) students had NSBVA without any ocular symptom. Eye strain was the most common ocular symptom. Average electronic device use was 4.53 hours/day. Most used electronic device was mobile phone. There was no association between NSBVA and electronic device use. Conclusion: The NSBVA is highly prevalent among MBBS and nursing students. Ocular symptoms are absent in many students with NSBVA which may lead to delayed diagnosis and worsening of ocular symptoms due to NSBVA. Older age group of students have higher prevalence of NSBVA. Electronic device exposure is not significantly associated with NSBVA in these students. Screening of such at risk population is important for timely diagnosis and treatment of NSBVA.

Abstract Strain engineering has become one of the effective methods to tune the electronic structures of materials, which can be introduced into the molecular junction to induce some unique physical effects. The various γ-graphyne nanoribbons (γ-GYNRs) embedded between gold (Au) electrodes with strain controlling have been designed, involving the calculation of the spin-dependent transport properties by employing the density functional theory. Our calculated results exhibit that the presence of strain has a great effect on transport properties of molecular junctions, which can obviously enhance the coupling between the γ-GYNR and Au electrodes. We find that the current flowing through the strained nanojunction is larger than that of the unstrained one. What is more, the length and strained shape of the γ-GYNR serves as the important factors which affect the transport properties of molecular junctions. Simultaneously, the phenomenon of spin-splitting occurs after introducing strain into nanojunction, implying that strain engineering may be a new means to regulate the electron spin. Our work can provide theoretical basis for designing of high performance graphyne-based devices in the future.

Great potential attention has been paid to memristors in the non-volatile memory market where it could lead to novel forms of computing. Also, the metal-oxide-metal system is considered a promising system for non-volatile memories. This comes out from their advantages of owing the merits of both the DRAM and Flash memories while avoiding their drawbacks. Therefore, we have manufactured a new micro-oxide device (A l /Li 2 ZnO 2 /ITO) for the memristors market. Non-pinched crossing current-voltage hysteresis loops have been obtained. These loops have been ascribed to the capacitor-coupled memristive effect. The effect of various stimuli such as electrical field, temperature, and illumination on the investigated device has been studied. In addition, the impedance spectroscopic measurements are investigated under the influence of applying an external electric field. The Nyquist plots revealed that the device can be introduced by a resistance connected in series with a network of both parallel capacitance and parallel resistance. Great potential attention has been paid to memristors in the non-volatile memory market where it could lead to novel forms of computing. Therefore, we have manufactured a new micro-oxide device (A l /Li 2 ZnO 2 /ITO) for the memristors market. Non-pinched (non-zero) crossing current-voltage (I–V) hysteresis loops have been obtained (cf., Fig. 1 (a)). These hysteresis loops have been ascribed to the capacitor-coupled memristive effect (see Fig. 1 (b)). In order to elucidate the mechanism that describes the capacitive-memristive coupling effect, the schematic sketches in Fig. 1(c–f) are exploited. Furthermore, the effect of various stimuli such as electrical field, temperature, and illumination on the investigated device has been studied. The co-existence of the capacitor-coupled memristive effect in our device and the controlling of such effect by various stimuli refer to the potential application of our device in communication systems, computing systems, sensors, and all types of memory applications. In addition, the impedance spectroscopic measurements are investigated under the influence of applying an external electric field. The Nyquist plots revealed that the device can be introduced by a series resistance connected in series with a network of both parallel capacitance and parallel resistance. The classical correlated hopping barriers (CHB) mechanism was found to represent the conduction mechanism of the studied system. Fig. 1. (a) I–V characteristic plot of A l /Li 2 ZnO 2 /ITO device with sweeping voltage at ± 0.5 V as a representative example. (b) A sketch displays the capacitive-coupled memristive effect. (c-f) Sketches show the model used to attribute the non-pinched I–V hysteresis loop. [Display omitted] • Novel micro-oxide device A l /Li 2 ZnO 2 /ITO has been fabricated. • Non-pinched crossing current-voltage (I–V) hysteresis loops have been obtained. • The effect of various stimuli such as electrical field, temperature, and illumination on the investigated device has been studied. • The impedance spectroscopic measurements are investigated under the effect of applying an external electric field. • Li 2 ZnO 2 film revealed a direct optical transition with an energy gap of 3.24 eV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advent of the Internet of Things era, the connection between electronic devices and humans is getting closer and closer. New‐concept electronic devices including e‐skins, nanogenerators, brain–machine interfaces, and implantable medical devices, can work on or inside human bodies, calling for wearing comfort, super flexibility, biodegradability, and stability under complex deformations. However, conventional electronics based on metal and plastic substrates cannot effectively meet these new application requirements. Therefore, a series of advanced electronic devices based on flexible porous substrates (e.g., paper, fabric, electrospun nanofibers, wood, and elastic polymer sponge) is being developed to address these challenges by virtue of their superior biocompatibility, breathability, deformability, and robustness. The porous structure of these substrates can not only improve device performance but also enable new functions, but due to their wide variety, choosing the right porous substrate is crucial for preparing high‐performance electronics for specific applications. Herein, the properties of different flexible porous substrates are summarized and their basic principles of design, manufacture, and use are highlighted. Subsequently, various functionalization methods of these porous substrates are briefly introduced and compared. Then, the latest advances in flexible porous substrate‐based electronics are demonstrated. Finally, the remaining challenges and future directions are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-conductivity yarns with remarkable flexibility and sensitivity have great potential for application in manufacturing wearable electronics. However, the development of electronic textiles (E-textiles) is still limited by the insufficient extents of size manipulation and weight reduction. In this study, a novel nanofiber yarn with a high flexibility, durability, and sensitivity was prepared by a facile electrospinning technique. The composite yarn with silver nanowires used as a reinforcement for polyurethane nanofibers exhibits a high elongation at break (500 %), conductivity (0.4 kΩ/cm), and durability (recovery after 200 tensile cycles). Furthermore, the yarn was used to monitor body language. The results showed distinct fluctuations in resistance in response to subtle changes in expression and small movements of the body. In addition, the composite yarn was examined as a potential electric heater material. The yarn's surface temperature rised to 62.6 °C in 5 s, which proved its excellent electrothermal properties, and it could be realized even at 1 V. The combination of highly conductive structural components, i.e., silver nanowires and the flexible polyurethane nanofibers is a promising design strategy for producing new multifunctional composites for wearable devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the impact of the true mean daily dose and the true mean number of injections per week on the yearly height gain in short children treated with recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH). Design and Methods: 220 children from the French Easypod™ Connect Observational Study (ECOS) used the Easypod™ electronic device to record rhGH injections. The mean daily rhGH dose (the sum of the doses truly received divided by the number of days) and mean number of injections per week (the number of injections truly performed divided by the number of weeks) were calculated. Linear mixed models were used to study the impact of short (3-month) and long (1-year) variations in rhGH administration on the yearly height change [as a standard deviation score (SDS)], with time on treatment as a covariate. For each patient, several periods of 3 or 12 months were considered and designated as poorly adherence or fully adherence. We studied the impact of each of period on the height change. Results: At treatment initiation, the mean ± SD age was 9.8 ± 3.7 years (females: 47%, prepubertal: 86%) and the mean height was -2.28 ± 0.92 SDS. The mean treatment duration was 3.2 ± 1.1 years (685.2 patient years). 122 patients were GH-deficient, 79 were small for gestational age, and 19 had Turner syndrome. When treatment was computed over 12-month periods, receiving a mean daily dose <0.03 mg/kg.d was associated with a 20% lower mean yearly height gain SDS when<3 injections/week were received (vs.>5 injections/week), whereas maintaining a mean daily dose >0.03 mg/kg.d with<3 injections/week was not associated with a lower yearly height gain SDS (vs.>5 injections/week). For 3-month periods, changes in the daily rhGH dose or the number of injections per week over such short period did not influence the yearly height gain SDS. Conclusion: The 12-month treatment model showed that when poor adherence leads to a low true daily GH dose, the yearly height gain is low. The 3-month treatment model showed that poor adherence for short periods (<3 months) had no impact on the height SDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract With the advent of the Internet of Things era, the connection between electronic devices and humans is getting closer and closer. New‐concept electronic devices including e‐skins, nanogenerators, brain–machine interfaces, and implantable medical devices, can work on or inside human bodies, calling for wearing comfort, super flexibility, biodegradability, and stability under complex deformations. However, conventional electronics based on metal and plastic substrates cannot effectively meet these new application requirements. Therefore, a series of advanced electronic devices based on flexible porous substrates (e.g., paper, fabric, electrospun nanofibers, wood, and elastic polymer sponge) is being developed to address these challenges by virtue of their superior biocompatibility, breathability, deformability, and robustness. The porous structure of these substrates can not only improve device performance but also enable new functions, but due to their wide variety, choosing the right porous substrate is crucial for preparing high‐performance electronics for specific applications. Herein, the properties of different flexible porous substrates are summarized and their basic principles of design, manufacture, and use are highlighted. Subsequently, various functionalization methods of these porous substrates are briefly introduced and compared. Then, the latest advances in flexible porous substrate‐based electronics are demonstrated. Finally, the remaining challenges and future directions are discussed.

ObjectiveTo study the impact of the true mean daily dose and the true mean number of injections per week on the yearly height gain in short children treated with recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH).Design and Methods220 children from the French Easypod™ Connect Observational Study (ECOS) used the Easypod™ electronic device to record rhGH injections. The mean daily rhGH dose (the sum of the doses truly received divided by the number of days) and mean number of injections per week (the number of injections truly performed divided by the number of weeks) were calculated. Linear mixed models were used to study the impact of short (3-month) and long (1-year) variations in rhGH administration on the yearly height change [as a standard deviation score (SDS)], with time on treatment as a covariate. For each patient, several periods of 3 or 12 months were considered and designated as poorly adherence or fully adherence. We studied the impact of each of period on the height change.ResultsAt treatment initiation, the mean ± SD age was 9.8 ± 3.7 years (females: 47%, prepubertal: 86%) and the mean height was -2.28 ± 0.92 SDS. The mean treatment duration was 3.2 ± 1.1 years (685.2 patient years). 122 patients were GH-deficient, 79 were small for gestational age, and 19 had Turner syndrome. When treatment was computed over 12-month periods, receiving a mean daily dose 5 injections/week), whereas maintaining a mean daily dose >0.03 mg/kg.d with5 injections/week). For 3-month periods, changes in the daily rhGH dose or the number of injections per week over such short period did not influence the yearly height gain SDS.ConclusionThe 12-month treatment model showed that when poor adherence leads to a low true daily GH dose, the yearly height gain is low. The 3-month treatment model showed that poor adherence for short periods (

The composition of widespread electronic devices (mobile phone, computer mouse, keyboard, web-camera, monitor) was studied by manual dismantling. The material flow analysis was done for e-waste components. For the case study of Ukraine, five devices under investigation contain over 4 thousand tons / year resources. Most of them (first of all, plastic and metal) can be easily recovered. The content of chemical elements in the components of the electronic devices was determined by X-ray fluorescence analysis. Taking into account the mass of electronic waste generated in Ukraine, the resource potential of metals is estimated. Most of metals are concentrated in mobile phones and monitors (about 2000 tons/year). Apart from common metals, silver, molybdenum, vanadium, rubidium, zirconium, antimony, yttrium, rhodium, bismuth, and gallium were also found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The widespread availability of Internet access and increasing rate of electronic device usage has helped enlighten the world community through copious applications, information resources, and other benefits. However, both the lack of controlled behavior and excessive Internet usage have resulted in a variety of difficulties that can hinder user achievement in many areas. Objectives: This study investigated the prevalence of Internet and electronic device addiction among Egyptian and Saudi nursing students, with the aim of identifying any effects on sleep and academic performance. Methods: A cross-sectional comparative research design was employed among a systematic random sample comprised of 920 Egyptian and Saudi female nursing students. All participants completed the Young-Internet Addiction Test (IAT), Mobile Phone Involvement Questionnaire (MPIQ), and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Results: Severe Internet Addiction (IA) detected in 42.69% and 10.31% of Saudi and Egyptian participants, respectively. However, Saudi participants were more likely to report high rates of mobile phone usage (P < 0.001), while Egyptian participants tended to score higher on the ESS (17.47 ± 3.99 vs. 16.8 ± 3.83; P = 0.024). For all participants, IAT and MPIQ scores were correlated with ESS results, while IA was specifically associated with poor academic performance. Finally, MPIQ scores were inversely correlated with academic performance for Saudi participants. Conclusion: Smartphone and Internet addiction were notable problems for the Egyptian and Saudi nursing students investigated in this study. Importantly, these conditions adversely affect academic performance and other activity engagement in addition to inducing excessive daytime sleepiness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to identify, characterize and compare attitudes, beliefs, behaviors and other factors related to electronic device (ED) use and distracted driving (DD) among taxi and app-based drivers. A survey among drivers in San Diego and across the United States was used to collect self-reported attitudes and behaviors among taxi and app-based passenger-carrying drivers from October 1, 2016 to January 31, 2017. Chi-square or Fisher's exact test was used to assess the difference between sociodemographics, ED use, ED use attitudes, and citation and crash history by driver type. Prevalence ratios were assessed for differences in ED use and ED use attitudes by driver type using Poisson regression models with robust error variance and a log link function. The final models adjusted for age, sex, level of experience, education and English fluency. All analyses were performed using SAS version 9.4. Of the 175 drivers that met eligibility criteria, 131 reported driving for app-based services and 44 identified as taxi drivers. Compared to taxi drivers, app-based drivers were more likely to be female, native English speaking, and have fewer than 3 years of experience in the transportation business. All drivers reported at least one type of DD while the car was in motion. App-based drivers were significantly more likely to use a smartphone while driving (adjusted prevalence ratio (APR): 1.42), report that while driving it is safe or very safe to accept a call (APR: 1.73), receive/respond to a passenger request (APR: 3.40), or process a payment (APR: 5.39). Taxi drivers were more likely to either receive a citation for ED use (31.8% v 7.6%, p < 0.001) or be in a collision while using ED (29.6% v 4.6%, p < 0.001). Almost all drivers who received a citation or who were involved in a crash reported becoming somewhat or significantly more cautious about using ED while driving. Drivers in the small passenger-carrying transportation industry engage in DD frequently due to occupational demands. Given the known increased crash risk with DD, effective policies and interventions for app-based and taxi drivers are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2021, the Slovak team of the European Social Survey participated in an acceptance testing of electronic devices that enables respondents to respond in public opinion surveys. So far, face to face or telephone survey modes have been used for data collection. With the development of digitization, most of the survey work has moved to the online space. As a result, respondents without internet access were left outside the reach of survey agencies. Additionally, the approach was tested as a response to the Covid-19 pandemic, which in several respects affected the implementation of the fieldwork so far implemented in the form of computer assisted personal interviews. The Electronic Questionnaire Device project (EQD) coordinated by NatCen (UK) tested electronic devices (tablets) and collected the feedback from respondents who have no experience with the use of such devices and do not use the Internet. The aim of this paper was to investigate and describe i) initial participants' reactions to the device; ii) issues related to device usage; iii) willingness of respondents to participate in self-completion surveys again. The findings of the study show up evidence for the overall acceptance of the tested approach. This approach aims to enable participation in a survey to those people who might not have been (approach)able to take part under other circumstances. In general, the participants were open to cooperation, and accepted the option of selfcompletion. While an acceptance of the device as a tool for the self-completion approach by respondents with low/uncompleted education remains questionable and uncertain, having some previous experience with ICT seemed to help in decreasing the initial stress and tension of the respondent to accept the self-completion option. These findings will, however, require further verification on larger samples of respondents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of using online dictionaries to improve grade 10 learners' reading skills at a rural public junior secondary school in Bochum East circuit in Capricorn North District, Limpopo province, South Africa. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and data was analysed thematically The diverse data collection tools used in this study include interviews, reading and experiment as the researcher was testing if online dictionary could help learners to overcome their reading problems. Results of the study revealed that the usage of online dictionaries improved learners' pronunciation as well as their vocabulary usage abilities. Results also revealed that participants are willing to use online dictionaries in vocabulary learning because it helps them with pronunciation as well as how to use the word in a sentence. The most frequent perceived benefits of online dictionaries are the speed of accessing the meaning of new vocabulary and getting clear correct pronunciation of them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Adherence to asthma treatment among children is usually poor. We sought to explore whether electronic adherence monitoring combined with weekly feedback regarding adherence along with a reminder to use inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) would lead to improved compliance with ICS in infants and younger children with asthma. Methods 96 recruited children (aged 6 months to 3 years) with mild or moderate persistent asthma who were on regular inhaled corticosteroids were randomly allocated to receive electronic monitoring combined with instant messaging software (IMS)-based weekly feedback regarding adherence along with a reminder to keep taking the ICS (intervention group) and to receive electronic monitoring only (control group). Results The mean device-monitored adherence was significantly higher in the intervention group (80%) than in the control group (45.9%), with a difference of 34.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 26.8–41.3%; P

The demand for high-performance and compact electronic devices has been increasing day by day. Due to their compactness, excessive heat is generated, causing a decrease in efficiency and life. Thermal management of electronic components is crucial for maintaining excessive heat within the limit. This experimental research focuses on the combined effect of nano-enhanced phase-change material (NePCM) with different configurations of heat sinks for cooling electronic devices. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are used as nanoparticles with concentrations of 3 wt% and 6 wt%, RT-42 as the phase-change material (PCM), and aluminum as the pin fin heat sink material. Different configurations of the heat sink, such as circular, square, and triangular pin fins, are used against the fixed volume fraction of the fins. It is found that the square configuration has the highest heat transfer with and without PCM. A maximum base temperature reduction of 24.01% was observed in square pin fins with RT-42 as PCM. At 6 wt% of NePCM, the maximum base temperature lessened by 25.83% in the case of a circular pin fin. It is concluded from the results that a circular pin fin with NePCM is effective for base temperature reduction, and all fin configurations with NePCM collectively reduce the heat sink base temperature.

The purpose of this study is to determine a device for balancing the ends of a weight and its effect on the performance of young weightlifters, using an experimental approach to the research question, with a sample size of (12) athletes representing the club (Al-Rafidain Al-Diwaniyah Al-Ettifaq Al-Iskan) applicants. The homogeneity and equivalence processes were carried out to verify the starting line of their data, after taking their tribal measurements (height, weight, arm grip strength, and the relative achievement of the snatch and nether lifts). When performing and due to the absence of such a device, the usual sample approach was used and training units were entered into it using the training method. The results of the pre and post arithmetic circles for the two groups were compared and treated statistically. After that, the most important conclusions of the device were reached that had a positive impact on achievement and improvement of some kinematic variables for the two Snatch lifts Walther. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To analyze and characterize the pattern of visual working distance (WD) and mobile phone usage distance (MPD) in a large population, analyzing the differences in these parameters according to the job profile. Cross-sectional study consisting of a screening campaign evaluating the visual status of professionals from seven different environments. A total of 454 participants with a mean age of 41.5 years (range, 22–64 years) were revised. The screening campaign consisted of several rapid tests performed in a single session in the usual work environment of each participant, including measurement of WD, arm length, and MPD (VisionApp, VisionApp Solutions S.L.). WD was significantly longer than MPD (82.5 ± 150.6 vs. 31.9 ± 6.3 cm, p <.001), whereas no significant differences were found between arm length (74.3 ± 4.8 cm) and WD (p =.493). WD was below 80 cm in 89.6% (407/454) of participants, whereas MPD was below 40 cm in 89.0% (404/454). No significant correlation was found between WD and MPD (r = 0.126, p =.117). Statistically significant differences were detected among job profile subgroups in WD (p <.001), with military personnel showing significantly longer WD than other professionals (p ≤ 0.018). Significant differences were also found between job profile subgroups in MPD (p =.006), with shorter MPDs for shoe factory professionals compared to sellers (p =.046). WD and MPD vary significantly among individuals, but always showing a shorter MPD. WD varies significantly also according to the job profile, being necessary to consider this information when selecting the most optimal optical aid in each case, especially for the compensation of presbyopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of electronic-based devices to measure and to improve adherence of subjects in clinical trials is increasing. AiCure has developed a mobile technology that is claimed to provide visual confirmation of drug ingestion. While there is evidence suggesting that including such self-monitoring device in a study increases adherence, the quality of the data produced by the device may be questionable. Can the mobile technology reliably distinguish whether a subject takes the study drug or not? Methods: Adherence was calculated based on exposure, self-reporting and self-monitoring for subjects randomized to an anti-depressant. Levels of adherence and agreement between the three approaches were investigated based on calculation of proportions, two-way tables and receiver operating curves. Results: A total of 214 subjects had measured concentrations of study drug at all three time points (end of weeks 3, 4 and 5), along with adherence data to define proportion of days adherent based on self-reporting and the self-monitoring instrument developed by AiCure. Self-reported adherence proportions were higher than self-monitored adherence proportions, although both were high (>90%). Neither self-reported and self-monitored adherence agreed with exposure-based adherence. Conclusion: Both self-reported and self-monitored adherence overestimated adherence. Neither the self-reported nor the self-monitored adherence measure reflected subjects' actual adherence. This prompts for cautiousness when interpreting either of them, and it underlines the need for thorough validation of electronic devices and software that claims to measure adherence. The AiCure instrument may not be able to reliably determine whether the subjects swallow the study medication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Przegląd Elektrotechniczny is the property of Przeglad Elektrotechniczny and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The registration of respiration through the left and right nostrils simultaneously makes it possible to register the dynamics and periodicity of the nasal cycle. For this purpose, an interface two-channel portable system has been developed for 24-hour recording of breathing through the two nostrils separately. The portable system can be used for multifunctional medical examinations under any conditions in patients with various anatomical and physiological disorders of breathing, sleep, and consciousness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Biociências is the property of Revista Biociencias and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Non-adherence to r-hGH treatments occurs in a variable percentage of subjects. One problem found when evaluating adherence is the great variability in methods of detection and definitions utilized in studies. This s tudy assessed the level of adherence in subjects receiving r-hGH with the easypod™ electronic device. Methods: National, multicenter, prospective and observational study involving 238 subjects (144 with GH deficiency (GHD), and 86 with small for ge stational age (SGA), 8 with Turner Syndrome), who received r-hGH with easypod™ for at least 3 months before inclusion. The follow-up period was 4 years. Results: Overall adherence was 94.5%; 97.5% after 6 months, 95.3% after 1 year, 93.7% after 2, 94.4% after 3 and 95.5% after 4 years of treatment. No differences in adherence were observed between prepubertal and pubertal groups and GHD a nd SGA groups. Change in height after 1 and 2 years, change in height SDS afte r 1 and 2 years, HV after 1 year, HV SDS after at 1 and 4 years, change in BMI after 1 ye ar and change in BMI SDS at 1 and 2 years showed significant correlation with adherence. No significant differences in adherence according to IGF-I levels were found in follow-up visits or between groups. Conclusions: The easypod™ electronic device, apart from being a precise and objective measure of adherence to r-hGH treatment, allows high compliance rates to be achieved over long periods of time. Adherence significantly impacts growt h outcomes associated with r-hGH treatment.

The aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of the blue-light filtering ‘Night Shift’ function on the Apple iPad at night and leptin production, perceived hunger levels and markers of sleep quality and quantity in healthy young adults. In a randomised, crossover design, 13 young adults (6 male/7 female) performed three experimental trials. Two of the interventions included one hour of night-time electronic device use; reading on an iPad ~30 cm from eyes, either with (iPad+NS) or without (iPad) the ‘Night Shift’ blue-light filtering feature turned on. The control trial involved reading a hard-copy book for one hour (CON). Leptin and perceived hunger and tiredness levels were assessed at various time points for the three experimental conditions. Objective sleep indices (actigraphy) and subjective ratings of sleep were recorded. There were no significant interactions for any of the measured variables (p > 0.05). Small to moderate effect sizes were found for perceived sleep quality, with CON (7.3 ± 1.7) having the highest value when compared to iPad+NS (6.6 ± 1.8, d = 0.29) and iPad (5.6 ± 2.3, d = 0.66). Moderate effects were associated with iPad+NS when compared to iPad (d = 0.77) and for iPad compared to CON (d = 0.90) for pre-post change in leptin concentration. Use of electronic devices at night may result in moderate suppression of leptin levels and impaired sleep quality, with negligible differences associated with whether or not the ‘Night Shift’ feature is turned on.

The use of data driven techniques is popular in smart manufacturing. Machine learning, statistics or a combination of both have been used to improve processes in electronic manufacturing. This paper presents the application of classical techniques to reduce production cycle time by compacting a production test sequence. This set of tests is run on stop-on-fail scenario for quality assurance of an electronical device. Data generated in the production test-set on stop-on-fail scenario challenges the traditional application of the data driven techniques, because of the missing data characteristic. The developed computational procedures handle this application-specific data attribute. The novelty of this work is in the algorithm developed, which applies classical techniques in an iterative environment, as a strategy to analyse incomplete datasets. Results show that the method can reduce a production test set with parametric and non-parametric tests by building an accurate prognostic model. The results can reduce production cycle time and costs. The paper details and provides discussions on the advantages and limitations of the proposed algorithms.

The cooling systems for semiconductor integrated circuits with high degree of integration of microelectronic circuits and electronic devices with high density thermal power based on dielectric fluid and heat pipes are proposed.

The measurement of environmental variables turns out to be a wide field in which different techniques are used to capture the desired analog signals, all of the above in order to transform them and deliver them in such a way that their interpretation is clear. This article describes a research project, which was carried out for the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies IDEAM –Colombia–, where a reverse engineering methodology was implemented aimed at the application of proprietary technologies to generate a new device capable of measuring soil temperature and moisture, starting from the design of the electronic circuit and arriving at the simulation. All based on existing equipment for the identification of electronic components, performance curves, and input and output signals, this with the aim of conceptualizing and generating bases for the final design.

The study reported in this paper aimed to investigate the response of a GAFChromic® HD-V2 film dosimeter in the dose range between 10 and 300 Gy, normally used to perform irradiation tests on electronic devices with a 60Co gamma-ray irradiator. The well-defined linearity of response in terms of absorbance as a function of absorbed dose, easiness of handling and data analysis of irradiated dosimeters, reproducibility, stability, and insensitivity to visible light and most of the environmental parameters, make HD-V2 film a flexible, inexpensive and reliable dose measurement device. The study has shown a fogging effect of the dosimeter response since its value changes over time. Strategies and adequate precautions to take into account changes on HD-V2 film physical properties for calibration and routine use in industrial applications, with a specific reference to radiation testing of electronic devices, have been discussed.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the television (TV) viewing and computer and mobile phone usage duration in a community sample of Chinese adults and examine their associations with BMI and obesity.Methods: We conducted a community-based health needs assessment study from February to December 2018 among 2,873 Chinese adults in Nanshan District of Shenzhen, China. We used self-administered questionnaires to collect the data from 24 community health service centers in Nanshan District. The participants individually recorded the time they spent watching TV and using computers and mobile phones. They also answered questions about their sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. We measured their height and weight by using ultrasonic height and weight scales. Then, we calculated and categorized their BMI in accordance with the standards prescribed by the World Health Organization for Asians.Results: Most of the participants were young adults (aged 18–44 years, 74.2%). The overall prevalence of obesity was 15.30%. The prevalence of TV, computer, and mobile phone usage was 75.5, 71.2, and 93.8% in females and 71.1, 75.7, and 94.2% in males, respectively. The youth (18–24 years) and the elderly (65 years or older) had the longest time using mobile phones (3.78 ± 2.51 h) and watching TV programs (2.12 ± 1.38 h), respectively. Longer usage of computers and mobile phones was evident in males (p < 0.05) and participants with a high education level (p < 0.01). The univariate analysis results showed an association between high BMI and obesity and short duration of using computers and mobile phones (all p < 0.05). By contrast, no significant associations were found between the length of TV program viewing and mobile phone usage and BMI (p > 0.05). After we adjusted for potential confounders, we found that computer usage time and the overall usage time of the three electronic devices had an inverse association with BMI (p < 0.05).Conclusions: Mobile phones were the most popular electronic device in Nanshan residents of Shenzhen. Unlike most previous studies, we found an inverse association between screen time and BMI. Nevertheless, scholars should conduct further studies to explore this association. Overall, we strongly encourage the appropriate use of electronic devices.

Steinberg-equation-based vibration mechanical fatigue lifetime estimation of the Sn-Ag-Cu-based solder joints was extracted for the power semiconductor modules. In this model, maximum displacement of the printed circuit board (PCB) is used as the failure root cause for mechanical lifetime estimation. Contrary to the existing lifetime models, the proposed model is capable of considering the effects of location of the power semiconductor modules in the PCB leading to much more accurate predictions. For confirmation, multiple tests are conducted to support the theoretical process for the calculation of the lifetime of the solder joint under vibration loading. Experiments are carried out on the basis of the ISO16750-3 test-I standard. The results show that the maximum error between analytical methods and experimental tests is limited to 55% for the central power semiconductors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is x-ray fluorescence analysis of waste electrical and electronic equipment. The paper evaluates the composition of waste electrical and electronic equipment most often used by today's society. For the five electronic devices (mobile phone, computer mouse, keyboard, web-camera, and computer monitor), the components have been identified and elemental composition has been measured using x-ray fluorescence analysis. As expected, most of the devices weight accounts for plastic (since the casing is mostly made from plastic). Cables also have a significant weight. In the devices analysed, 28 chemical elements were found during the study: the greatest diversity were found in monitor. The largest weight corresponds to "heavy" elements forming metal parts of the devices. Among the valuable components, copper and zinc are the most common. It is worth noting the high content of titanium in all the devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Gambling Issues is the property of Centre for Addiction & Mental Health and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Strain engineering has become one of the effective methods to tune the electronic structures of materials, which can be introduced into the molecular junction to induce some unique physical effects. The various γ-graphyne nanoribbons (γ-GYNRs) embedded between gold (Au) electrodes with strain controlling have been designed, involving the calculation of the spin-dependent transport properties by employing the density functional theory. Our calculated results exhibit that the presence of strain has a great effect on transport properties of molecular junctions, which can obviously enhance the coupling between the γ-GYNR and Au electrodes. We find that the current flowing through the strained nanojunction is larger than that of the unstrained one. What is more, the length and strained shape of the γ-GYNR serves as the important factors which affect the transport properties of molecular junctions. Simultaneously, the phenomenon of spin-splitting occurs after introducing strain into nanojunction, implying that strain engineering may be a new means to regulate the electron spin. Our work can provide theoretical basis for designing of high performance graphyne-based devices in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood Pressure (BP) is one of the most used measured clinical parameters in health promotion and intervention. BP measures can vary due to different parameters, so we aim to study the intrasession test–retest reliability for an oscillometric method using a digital tensiometer in the Peruvian population aged over 15 with and without a diagnosis of hypertension (HT). Data were taken from the Demographic and Family Health Survey conducted in Peru in 2019. Technicians had to follow a standardized protocol on the conditions to carry out a valid and reliable measurement. Relative reliability was excellent in most cases (intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.9); absolute reliability was excellent (standard error of measurement < 5%) and smallest real difference < 10% in most cases. The Bland–Altman plot showed a systematic error of 2.36 for systolic BP in men and 2.16 in women, and 0.823 for diastolic BP in men and 0.71 for diastolic BP in women. Results suggest that the oscillometric method with a digital blood pressure monitor was reliable in absolute and relative terms in this population, so it could be used as a reliable control test to measure changes after an intervention.

PCB fuses are used widely in small power and small size electronic devices such as switch mode power supplies, chargers etc. They offer small size and low cost but their dependency of the track’s geometry make them imprecise. The aim of this research is to show an approach for improving the design procedure, leading to improved parameters and operation of the fuse. The suggested design is based on modeling with finite element method and numerical simulation. Experimental results validating this work are presented.

The methodology, developed for active testing of electronic devices under the radiations, is presented. The test set-up includes a gamma-ray facility, the hardware board/fixtures and the software tools purposely designed and realized. The methodology is so wide-ranging to allow us the verification of different classes of electronic devices, even if only application examples for static random access memory modules are reported.

The current review aimed to collect and critically analyze the scientific peer-reviewed literature that is available about the use of digital applications for evaluation of visual parameters in electronic devices (tablets and smartphones), confirming if there are studies calibrating and validating each of these applications. Three bibliographic search engines (using the search equation described in the paper) and the Mendeley reference manager search engine were used to complete the analysis. Only articles written in English and that are evaluating the use of tests in healthy patients to measure or characterize any visual function aspects using tablets or smartphones were included. Articles using electronic visual tests to assess the results of surgical procedures or are conducted in pathological conditions were excluded. A total of 19 articles meeting these inclusion and exclusion criteria were finally analyzed. One critical point of all these studies is that there was no mention of the characterization (spatial and/or colorimetrical) of screens and the stimuli used in most of them. Only two studies described some level of calibration of the digital device before the beginning of the study. Most revised articles described non-controlled comparatives studies (73.7%), reporting some level of scientific evidence on the validation of tools, although more consistent studies are needed.

Background and Objective: Developmental disorder and environmental factors are considered as the main causes in postural abnormalities in children and adolescents. This study was done to evaluate the role of BMI, physical activity and the use of electronic device in the status of trunk abnormalities in male adolescents. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 480 boys of 13 to 15 years old in Golestan province, northern Iran. Trunk abnormalities were measured using a spinal mouse. Physical activity was assessed using a standard physical activity questionnaire. Use of electronic device was measured using the form of rate of use of electronic device. Results: Kyphosis abnormality in 13, 14 and 15 years-old male adolescents were reported 70%, 65% and 75%, respectively. In addition, 60% of 13 years-old, 40% of 14-years-old, and 50% of 15-years-old adolescents had lordosis abnormality. There was a direct and significant correlation between kyphosis abnormalities with BMI and using electronic device as well as a reverse significant correlation between lordosis abnormality and BMI was demonstrated. Conclusion: This study indicated that trunk abnormalities are relatively common in male adolescents in Golestan province, northern Iran. Also, BMI and the use of electronic device can also affect these abnormalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we want to design linear amplifiers for the Multi Frequency Network (MFN) or Single Frequency Network (SFN) digital terrestrial applications for Digital Video Broadcasting-Terrestrial (DVB-T/T2) transmitters with frequencies of 400 to 900 MHz, so to achieve this aim, we have used Laterally Diffused Metal Oxide Semiconductor (LDMOS) transistor technology has been used. The RF input signal reaches the divider ballun, and then the input of both LDMOS transistors is given and the output of two transistors by the collector balloon reaches the output of the amplifier. We have simulated this design by using the Agilent Design System (ADS) software simulator with a gain more than 24 dB, the (Inter Modulation Distortion (IMD) signal has been attenuated from -29 to -52.5dBc and Power Added Effeciency (PAE) from 48 to 66% with 4-stage matching network consisting of capacitors and microstrips with a drain bias voltage of 28 volts and gate bias voltage of 2.86 volts in the frequency range 400 to 900 MHz. Eventually all of the circuit is designed on a printed circuit board. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]