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Simple Summary: Uncertainty in biology refers to situations in which information is imperfect or unknown. Variability is measured by the frequency distribution of observed data, allowing for an understanding of the fundamental principles influencing diversity across different levels of biological organization. Biological variability adds to the uncertainty. The Constrained Disorder Principle (CDP) defines all systems in the universe by their inherent variability. Per the CDP, while variability differs from uncertainty, it can be viewed as a regulated mechanism for efficient functionality rather than uncertainty. This paper examines the different aspects of uncertainty in biology. It specifically looks at using CDP-based platforms to improve fuzzy algorithms and tackle some of the challenges related to biological and medical uncertainties. The goal is to produce algorithm outputs more relevant to biology and clinical applications. Uncertainty in biology refers to situations in which information is imperfect or unknown. Variability, on the other hand, is measured by the frequency distribution of observed data. Biological variability adds to the uncertainty. The Constrained Disorder Principle (CDP) defines all systems in the universe by their inherent variability. According to the CDP, systems exhibit a degree of variability necessary for their proper function, allowing them to adapt to changes in their environments. Per the CDP, while variability differs from uncertainty, it can be viewed as a regulated mechanism for efficient functionality rather than uncertainty. This paper explores the various aspects of un-certainties in biology. It focuses on using CDP-based platforms for refining fuzzy algorithms to address some of the challenges associated with biological and medical uncertainties. Developing a fuzzy decision tree that considers the natural variability of systems can help minimize uncertainty. This method can reveal previously unidentified classes, reduce the number of unknowns, improve the accuracy of modeling results, and generate algorithm outputs that are more biologically and clinically relevant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper considers the current problems of knowledge and information systems management, which are solved with the help of digital institutes for the purpose of the development of high-tech production in the conditions of Industry 4.0. The paper identifies the role of knowledge in the innovative development of industrial production, characterises the specifics of the influence of digital technologies on the technological development of companies and production processes, and focuses on the sensitivity of high-tech production to the level of intellectual support of production processes. Emphasis is made on the necessity of using comprehensive digital institutes, which can expand the boundaries of production companies and use the potential of digital platforms and systems in full. The research methodology combines traditional and new scientific directions and institutional theories in disciplines that study the research problem in the context of an increase in the intellectualisation of labour in the conditions of Industry 4.0. The research methodology covers general scientific methods of synthesis, analysis, the monographic method, observation, generalisation, and comparison. The paper contains important thoughts regarding the features of digital institutes from the position of their formation and influence on knowledge management in high-tech companies. It considers the structure and functions of the digital institutes of knowledge and information systems management in the conditions of Industry 4.0 and characterises selected institutes in the context of their influence on the digital transformation of the economy and the improvement of the state of knowledge management.

To address the need for rapid acquisition of gamma radiation field information in nuclear facility sites and digital radiation protection systems, simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) technology was combined with gamma dose detection technology in this paper. This combination aims to solve the problem of efficiently measuring gamma dose rate radiation fields in indoor scenarios while ensuring compatibility with digital systems. The study leverages the characteristics of scene sensors, focusing on visual SLAM (VSLAM) algorithms and methods for synchronizing and locating radiation measurement data using an RGBD camera. A gamma dose rate measurement device based on VSLAM was developed, employing an RGBD camera to capture the device motion trajectory and scene information. The gamma dose rate data was temporally and spatially matched with the trajectory test data by utilizing timestamps and the integral path midpoint method. This approach ensures precise synchronization between the spatial data from the VSLAM system and the temporal data from the gamma dose measurements. The quality of the scene point cloud, the accuracy of trajectory localization, and the performance of the gamma dose rate detection module were thoroughly tested. The measurement efficiency, localization accuracy, and compatibility with digital systems were analyzed at the experiments conducted at a nuclear facility site. The results show that more than 80% of the VSLAM scene point cloud matches the reference point cloud with a nearest neighbor distance of less than 0.2 m. This high level of accuracy in point cloud matching indicates that the VSLAM system can reliably reconstruct the 3D environment of the nuclear facility. The average matching distance between the measured trajectory and the motion capture system trajectory is 4.2 cm, with a standard deviation of 0.4 m. This demonstrates the high precision of the trajectory localization achieved by the VSLAM system. Within a dose rate range of 20 μGy/h to 20 mGy/h, the relative error in dose rate measurement is less than ±5%, indicating the reliability of the gamma dose detection module. Compared to traditional measurement methods, the new method improves the measurement efficiency of radiation dose rate fields by 10 times. This significant enhancement in efficiency can greatly reduce the time and effort required for radiation monitoring in nuclear facilities. The average matching distance between the measured trajectory and traditional tracking equipment (total station) was 18 cm, further validating the accuracy of the SLAM-based approach. Integration with digital systems achieves 3D spatial interpolation of radiation fields, with a single gamma source localization error of less than 0.8 m. This integration allows for a comprehensive visualization and analysis of radiation fields, facilitating better decision-making for radiation protection and safety. The developed VSLAM gamma dose rate measurement method and corresponding device offer high measurement efficiency, accurate localization, and good compatibility with digital systems, indicating a broad application prospect in the field of nuclear safety and radiation protection.

Abstract Background The implementation of digital disease surveillance systems at national levels in Africa have been challenged by many factors. These include user applicability, utility of IT features but also stable financial support. Funding closely intertwines with implementations in terms of geographical reach, disease focus, and sustainability. However, the practice of evidence sharing on geographical and disease coverage, costs, and funding sources for improving the implementation of these systems on the continent is unclear. Objectives To analyse the key characteristics and availability of evidence for implementing digital infectious disease surveillance systems in Africa namely their disease focus, geographical reach, cost reporting, and external funding support. Methods We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed and grey literature for the period 2003 to 2022 (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022300849). We searched five databases (PubMed, MEDLINE over Ovid, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) and websites of WHO, Africa CDC, and public health institutes of African countries. We mapped the distribution of projects by country; identified reported implementation cost components; categorised the availability of data on cost components; and identified supporting funding institutions outside Africa. Results A total of 29 reports from 2,033 search results were eligible for analysis. We identified 27 projects implemented in 13 countries, across 32 sites. Of these, 24 (75%) were pilot projects with a median duration of 16 months, (IQR: 5–40). Of the 27 projects, 5 (19%) were implemented for HIV/AIDs and tuberculosis, 4 (15%) for malaria, 4 (15%) for all notifiable diseases, and 4 (15%) for One Health. We identified 17 cost components across the 29 reports. Of these, 11 (38%) reported quantified costs for start-up capital, 10 (34%) for health personnel compensation, 9 (31%) for training and capacity building, 8 (28%) for software maintenance, and 7(24%) for surveillance data transmission. Of 65 counts of external funding sources, 35 (54%) were governmental agencies, 15 (23%) foundations, and 7 (11%) UN agencies. Conclusions The evidence on costing data for the digitalisation of surveillance and outbreak response in the published literature is sparse in quantity, limited in detail, and without a standardised reporting format. Most initial direct project costs are substantially donor dependent, short lived, and thus unsustainable.

Copyright of Atomic Energy Science & Technology is the property of Editorial Board of Atomic Energy Science & Technology 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.)

In Nepal, the tourism sector has become an important part of the country's economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. With its rich cultural heritage and natural attractions including the Himalayas, Nepal attracts a lot of tourists, especially for trekking and spiritual activities but so the increasing number of tourism related accidents poses huge challenges especially in road trips and adventure sports. Studies show that tourism related accidents in Nepal are influenced by factors such as poor-quality materials, negligence of drivers, and inadequate safety measures Adventure activities like trekking and rafting, combined with safety precautions the mismatch further increases the risk of disaster. Nepal has made progress in addressing these issues through policy implementation, such as improving road safety and promoting digital safety initiatives. Nevertheless, the implementation of these programs remains inconsistent, especially in remote areas. Security challenges in the tourism sector require comprehensive approaches including sound security measures, infrastructure development and digital integration and vulnerability to natural hazards Effective management of these risks is required greatly to ensure sustainable development of tourism in Nepal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper considers the current problems of knowledge and information systems management, which are solved with the help of digital institutes for the purpose of the development of high-tech production in the conditions of Industry 4.0. The paper identifies the role of knowledge in the innovative development of industrial production, characterises the specifics of the influence of digital technologies on the technological development of companies and production processes, and focuses on the sensitivity of hightech production to the level of intellectual support of production processes. Emphasis is made on the necessity of using comprehensive digital institutes, which can expand the boundaries of production companies and use the potential of digital platforms and systems in full. The research methodology combines traditional and new scientific directions and institutional theories in disciplines that study the research problem in the context of an increase in the intellectualisation of labour in the conditions of Industry 4.0. The research methodology covers general scientific methods of synthesis, analysis, the monographic method, observation, generalisation, and comparison. The paper contains important thoughts regarding the features of digital institutes from the position of their formation and influence on knowledge management in high-tech companies. It considers the structure and functions of the digital institutes of knowledge and information systems management in the conditions of Industry 4.0 and characterises selected institutes in the context of their influence on the digital transformation of the economy and the improvement of the state of knowledge management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work provides online learning modules and instructions on how educators can leverage these technologies to help students learn in a personalized online environment. In particular, we focus on Google Colab, and the features provided by the Gradio Python library to provide interactivity within these modules. The contributions of this work include: (1) Development of a teaching framework using Gradio/Colab that offers automated grading and feedback for both educators and students; (2) Design of a versatile proposal, accommodating beginners with a straightforward interface while addressing the needs of advanced learners; (3) Creation of a comprehensive set of examples tailored for teaching digital logic subjects, with adaptability for application in various computer science areas. (4) A classification of these example learning modules in terms of their learning level for the students; (5) A novel client‐server approach based on Colab/Gradio, allowing teachers to manage the main notebook efficiently while providing a lightweight and reliable interface for students. The goal of this work is to further expose educators to the remarkable capabilities that cloud computing brings to online supplemental education, noting that large language models such as ChatGPT complement this work, in that chatbots will be able to guide students in these dynamic simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The implementation of digital disease surveillance systems at national levels in Africa have been challenged by many factors. These include user applicability, utility of IT features but also stable financial support. Funding closely intertwines with implementations in terms of geographical reach, disease focus, and sustainability. However, the practice of evidence sharing on geographical and disease coverage, costs, and funding sources for improving the implementation of these systems on the continent is unclear. Objectives: To analyse the key characteristics and availability of evidence for implementing digital infectious disease surveillance systems in Africa namely their disease focus, geographical reach, cost reporting, and external funding support. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed and grey literature for the period 2003 to 2022 (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022300849). We searched five databases (PubMed, MEDLINE over Ovid, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) and websites of WHO, Africa CDC, and public health institutes of African countries. We mapped the distribution of projects by country; identified reported implementation cost components; categorised the availability of data on cost components; and identified supporting funding institutions outside Africa. Results: A total of 29 reports from 2,033 search results were eligible for analysis. We identified 27 projects implemented in 13 countries, across 32 sites. Of these, 24 (75%) were pilot projects with a median duration of 16 months, (IQR: 5–40). Of the 27 projects, 5 (19%) were implemented for HIV/AIDs and tuberculosis, 4 (15%) for malaria, 4 (15%) for all notifiable diseases, and 4 (15%) for One Health. We identified 17 cost components across the 29 reports. Of these, 11 (38%) reported quantified costs for start-up capital, 10 (34%) for health personnel compensation, 9 (31%) for training and capacity building, 8 (28%) for software maintenance, and 7(24%) for surveillance data transmission. Of 65 counts of external funding sources, 35 (54%) were governmental agencies, 15 (23%) foundations, and 7 (11%) UN agencies. Conclusions: The evidence on costing data for the digitalisation of surveillance and outbreak response in the published literature is sparse in quantity, limited in detail, and without a standardised reporting format. Most initial direct project costs are substantially donor dependent, short lived, and thus unsustainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background People living with severe mental illness (SMI) face significant health inequalities, including in palliative care. Advance Care Planning (ACP) is widely recommended by palliative care experts and could reduce inequalities. However, implementing ACP with this group is challenging. Electronic Palliative Care Coordination Systems such as Coordinate my Care (CMC) have been introduced to support documentation and sharing of ACP records with relevant healthcare providers. This study explores the use of CMC amongst those with SMI and aims to describe how those with a primary diagnosis of SMI who have used CMC for ACP, and makes recommendations for future research and policy. Method A retrospective observational cohort analysis was completed of CMC records created 01/01/2010–31/09/2021 where the service user had a primary diagnosis of SMI, with no exclusions based on comorbidities. Descriptive statistics were used to report on characteristics including: age, diagnosis, individual prognosis and resuscitation status. Thematic analysis was used to report on the content of patients’ statements of preference. Results 1826 records were identified. Of this sample most (60.1%) had capacity to make treatment decisions, 47.8% were aged under 70, 86.7% were given a prognosis of ‘years’ and most (63.1%) remained for full cardio-pulmonary resuscitation in the event of cardio-pulmonary arrest. Records with completed statements of preferences (20.3%) contained information about preferences for physical and mental health treatment care as well as information about patient presentation and capacity, although most were brief and lacked expression of patient voice. Discussion Compared to usual CMC users, the cohort of interest are relatively able, younger people using CMC to make long-term plans for active physical and mental health treatment. ADM is a service user-driven process, and so it was expected that authentic patient voice would be expressed within statements of preference, however this was mostly not achieved. Conclusions This digital tool is being used by people with SMI but to plan for more than palliative care. This cohort and supporting professionals have used CMC to plan for longer term physical and mental healthcare. Future research and policy should focus on development of tailored digital tools for people with SMI to plan for palliative, physical and mental healthcare and support expression of patient voice.

Uncertainty in biology refers to situations in which information is imperfect or unknown. Variability, on the other hand, is measured by the frequency distribution of observed data. Biological variability adds to the uncertainty. The Constrained Disorder Principle (CDP) defines all systems in the universe by their inherent variability. According to the CDP, systems exhibit a degree of variability necessary for their proper function, allowing them to adapt to changes in their environments. Per the CDP, while variability differs from uncertainty, it can be viewed as a regulated mechanism for efficient functionality rather than uncertainty. This paper explores the various aspects of un-certainties in biology. It focuses on using CDP-based platforms for refining fuzzy algorithms to address some of the challenges associated with biological and medical uncertainties. Developing a fuzzy decision tree that considers the natural variability of systems can help minimize uncertainty. This method can reveal previously unidentified classes, reduce the number of unknowns, improve the accuracy of modeling results, and generate algorithm outputs that are more biologically and clinically relevant.

Background: People living with severe mental illness (SMI) face significant health inequalities, including in palliative care. Advance Care Planning (ACP) is widely recommended by palliative care experts and could reduce inequalities. However, implementing ACP with this group is challenging. Electronic Palliative Care Coordination Systems such as Coordinate my Care (CMC) have been introduced to support documentation and sharing of ACP records with relevant healthcare providers. This study explores the use of CMC amongst those with SMI and aims to describe how those with a primary diagnosis of SMI who have used CMC for ACP, and makes recommendations for future research and policy. Method: A retrospective observational cohort analysis was completed of CMC records created 01/01/2010–31/09/2021 where the service user had a primary diagnosis of SMI, with no exclusions based on comorbidities. Descriptive statistics were used to report on characteristics including: age, diagnosis, individual prognosis and resuscitation status. Thematic analysis was used to report on the content of patients' statements of preference. Results: 1826 records were identified. Of this sample most (60.1%) had capacity to make treatment decisions, 47.8% were aged under 70, 86.7% were given a prognosis of 'years' and most (63.1%) remained for full cardio-pulmonary resuscitation in the event of cardio-pulmonary arrest. Records with completed statements of preferences (20.3%) contained information about preferences for physical and mental health treatment care as well as information about patient presentation and capacity, although most were brief and lacked expression of patient voice. Discussion: Compared to usual CMC users, the cohort of interest are relatively able, younger people using CMC to make long-term plans for active physical and mental health treatment. ADM is a service user-driven process, and so it was expected that authentic patient voice would be expressed within statements of preference, however this was mostly not achieved. Conclusions: This digital tool is being used by people with SMI but to plan for more than palliative care. This cohort and supporting professionals have used CMC to plan for longer term physical and mental healthcare. Future research and policy should focus on development of tailored digital tools for people with SMI to plan for palliative, physical and mental healthcare and support expression of patient voice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the impact of digital technologies on contemporary architecture, highlighting how sensors, virtual reality, augmented reality and sensitive facades have transformed sensory interaction in built space. The main objective is to analyse how these technologies go beyond their practical function, generating spaces that stimulate the senses and integrate with the environment. A taxonomy is used to classify four disruptive experimental architectural projects from the early 21st century, demonstrating how digital technologies have evolved from a static view to a more complex perspective. The study argues that digital systems have become a new design material, expanding creativity and highlighting the importance of sensory and emotional experience in the design process. Preliminary findings suggest that technology plays a crucial role in the creation of meaningful architectural spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digitization in the domain of nautical tourism has stimulated the implementation of innovative applications, serving as integral support mechanisms for service users. This transformation has also given rise to specified smart business ecosystems, ensuring the joint generation of value for all stakeholders. As a result, innovative technologies have not only transformed the overall nautical experience but also led to reduced operating costs and the development of effective business practices, thus becoming a strategic priority for nautical companies. Based on the analysis of a wide body of literature, this paper aims to underscore the significance of information technology and interactive smart systems in nautical tourism. Through the implementation of digital and smart technologies, it becomes feasible to manage multiple segments, including actors, devices and security systems. This oper-ationalization of ship management activities aims to enhance the experience for guests and crew in continuation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trajectories of patients in need of long-term rehabilitation services are extremely complex. Therefore, strengthening the rehabilitation field requires increasing organizational resilience to ensure robust processes and efficient collaboration and communication. In this study, we explored how digital systems can promote organizational resilience in rehabilitation practices. Methodologically, we applied an experience-based co-design approach in which we held three day-long creative workshops with approximately 40 participants each in 2021 and 2022. The goal was to design a digitally supported model for the care and rehabilitation of patients with acquired brain injuries. This paper presents the themes related to digitalization that emerged from the discussions in the workshops. The paper develops the argument that designing digital systems for resilient rehabilitation practices is far more than merely a technical issue. It requires broad sociopolitical engagement to put rehabilitation on the political agenda, and designers need to take a stance on both organizational and ethical issues. Analytically, we draw on the theoretical concept of information infrastructure and the theoretical concept of articulation work.

Dental medicine is advancing at an exceptionally fast rate, one of its main reasons being the integration of digital technologies. An example of this are intraoral scanners, which provide us with the opportunity to acquire a digital model as an alternative to conventional methods. The search was limited to full articles published in peerreviewed scientific journals. Two factors affect accuracy: trueness and precision. Trueness refers to the deviation of the scanned object from its actual geometry. Precision refers to the deviation between multiple scans. For replacing conventional impression materials and gypsum models by digital systems, they must exhibit at least the same level of accuracy/quality.At present, intraoral scanners appear as a reliable alternative to conventional methods for creating fixed restorations, on both natural teeth and implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expert analysis of the quality of reclaimed castings permits estimation of their structural reliability. Monitoring by visual, instrumental, and capillary methods permits identification of the technological deficiencies responsible for rejection and discarding of the workpiece. The introduction of electronic information systems with intermediate digital monitoring of casting production is prompted by the inconsistent appearance of casting defects. Product life cycle management (PLM) provides the basis for ensuring the quality of machine components in an import substitution strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a new learning approach in collaborative lcarning-by doing, real-world team-based project in two ICT courses: Digital Systems and Computing Engineering, conducted at Universität Politècnica de Catalunya. Data collected included: background information on students; course evaluations; measures of the knowledge and cross-knowledge of both disciplines taken before and after our SimulAVR project. SimulAVR integrates interdisciplinary knowledge by simulating via software a microcontroller and its implementation in VHDL. Our study is based on the analysis of the results of running the project for 3 years. After taking the simulAVR project, the students rated the interest in both courses higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital technology has been created to minimize therapy times for both clinicians and dental technicians, as well as to reduce the number of errors that occur with traditional methods. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the technological processes of achieving metal-ceramic dentures in the context of full-arch rehabilitation on four implants, following the stages imposed by the digital systems in the dental technique laboratory. Digital laboratory techniques were used to aesthetically restore prosthetic restoration on implants. Among the devices used in the process of performing the works on the implant, we can mention the following: Scanner, 3D printers, laser milling and sintering devices, parallelograph, etc. Prosthodontic restorations on implants provide protection for the tissues at the level of the oral cavity. Maintaining the health of the oral cavity is a main objective of improving the quality of life. From indications point of view, depending on the clinical situation, we can say that metal-ceramic prosthesis is more indicated in extended edentations, due to resistance to fracture.

Copyright of Scientific Journal of Library, Archives & Information (SJLAI) is the property of Cairo University, Faculty of Arts - Documents & information Technology Department 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 article discusses ways of describing digital systems with various schemes, provides a comparative characteristic of these schemes, indicates the advantages and disadvantages of different schemes. The four schemes for constructing digital systems described in the article are equivalent, since with the same input signal, the output signal for all circuits will be the same, although different signals will circulate inside these circuits. To build adaptive digital systems, preference should be given to state-space circuits, since in them it is easier to adjust the parameters of the digital system. When choosing between serial and parallel circuits, preference should be given to the parallel circuit if the coefficients in it are valid. With complex coefficients, the implementation of the parallel scheme becomes more complicated, therefore, in this case, one should choose a sequential scheme in the state space, all the coefficients are real.

The food system is undergoing a digital transformation that connects local and global supply chains to address economic, environmental, and societal drivers. Digitalisation enables firms to meet sustainable development goals (SDGs), address climate change and the wider negative externalities of food production such as biodiversity loss, and diffuse pollution. Digitalising at the business and supply chain level through public–private mechanisms for data exchange affords the opportunity for greater collaboration, visualising, and measuring activities and their socio-environmental impact, demonstrating compliance with regulatory and market requirements and providing opportunity to capture current practice and future opportunities for process and product improvement. Herein we consider digitalisation as a tool to drive innovation and transition to a decarbonised food system. We consider that deep decarbonisation of the food system can only occur when trusted emissions data are exchanged across supply chains. This requires fusion of standardised emissions measurements within a supply chain data sharing framework. This framework, likely operating as a corporate entity, would provide the foci for measurement standards, data exchange, trusted, and certified data and as a multi-stakeholder body, including regulators, that would build trust and collaboration across supply chains. This approach provides a methodology for accurate and trusted emissions data to inform consumer choice and industrial response of individual firms within a supply chain.

Air freight logistics has always been on the forefront of technological and international collaboration developments. With the increasing integration of digital systems at airports, issues in human-technology interaction are becoming important for efficient logistics processes. This paper provides a literature review with 123 analyzed papers from 2010 to 2021 about the core developments regarding the collaboration of humans and digital systems. Whereas for example autopilots were seen as a comfortable addition in the past, today digital systems emerge that fundamentally change the role of human workers and collaborative processes. This has to be integrated on all levels of management, not least due to safety and security regulations to keep up quality and efficiency. The importance of digitalization trends is also reflected in a rising number of research publications: Most topics are security, human-technology interaction and performance measurement in the wake of digitalization at airports and in the air transportation sector.

Microelectrode arrays (MEAs) are essential equipment in neuroscience for studying the nervous system's behavior and organization. MEAs are arrays of parallel electrodes that work by sensing the extracellular potential of neurons in their proximity. Processing the data streams acquired from MEAs is a computationally intensive task requiring parallelization. It is performed using complex signal processing algorithms and architectural templates. In this paper, we propose using approximate computing-based algorithms on Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), which can be very useful in custom implementations for processing neural signals acquired from MEAs. The motivation is to provide better performance gains in the system area, power consumption, and latency associated with real-time processing at the cost of reduced output accuracy within certain bounds. Three types of approximate adders are explored in different configurations to develop the signal processing algorithms. The algorithms are used to build approximate processing systems on FPGA and then compare them with the accurate system. All accurate and approximate systems are tested on real biological signals with the same settings. Results show an enhancement in processing speed of up to 37.6% in some approximate systems without a loss in accuracy. In other approximate systems, the area reduction is up to 14.3%. Other systems show the trade between processing speed, accuracy, and area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This paper introduces an electronic circuit capable of generating a set of functions, some of them known in digital systems as the logical operators AND, OR, XOR, and so on. Using two inputs, u1 and u2, the circuit provides 16 possible output combinations. The main idea of the electronic design is based on an RC network, operational amplifiers, and voltage comparators. On the other hand, mathematically, the stable system response is used as a surface where u1 and u2 are coordinate axes forming a plane, which intersects this surface, and the output y can be seen as a circle surrounding some fixed points over this plane. The mathematical approach on this paper is intended as a groundwork for a multiple input reconfigurable logic gate that could be embedded in more complex systems. The procedure to obtain an XOR gate, represented by the f(6) function, is explained to illustrate the circuit behavior. Results of the 16 implemented functions are shown in Appendices B and C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One type of thinking needed by engineers is abstract thinking, i.e., higher-order thinking that permits one to solve problems while maneuvering between several levels of complexity (levels of abstraction). In light of the above, the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering (Technion - Israel Institute of Technology) decided to combine two introductory courses, focusing on different levels of abstraction, into a single undergraduate course "Digital Systems and Computer Structure" integrating multiple levels of abstraction, i.e., logical, micro-architecture and architecture levels. The study presented here characterized the attitudes of students and course faculty toward learning and instruction that combine several levels of abstraction. The research, which used quantitative and qualitative tools, involved 103 students and eight teaching staff members. According to the findings, students hold positive attitudes toward learning that incorporates multiple levels of abstraction. both cognitively and affectively, and the correlation between the components is positive, moderate, and significant. Students argue that this type of learning is interesting, provides a complete picture of computer systems, promotes higher-order thinking, and is relevant to industry work. but is also characterized by a high cognitive load. Course faculty claim that teaching that incorporates multiple levels of abstraction is enjoyable, imparts higher-order thinking among students but is very demanding. As for the behavioral aspect, the vast majority of students and instructors prefer learning and teaching that integrate multiple levels of abstraction over those that focus on a few levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On the basis of literature sources analysis, the paper provides the rationale for the necessity of considering the limited digital devices capabilities when designing closed digital control systems for the complex electrical power grids. The problem of design is decomposed into two subproblems: design of current state observation vector digital transmission systems and current controlled process state estimation; design of digital systems for optimal control vector calculation, transmission and control actions realization.The paper presents consideration of the former problem, i.e. design of current state observation vector digital transmission systems and current controlled process state estimation: the mathematical model of digital system of information transmission and state estimation considering speed and reliability of technical means of implementation is presented; the functional structure of simulation complex is developed; the paper provides the formulation of the problem of estimating the optimal amount of information about the control object state, resulting in a solution of computational experiments simulating complex.

Every month, teachers face the dilemma of what exercises their students should practice, and what their consequences are regarding long-term learning. Since teachers prefer to pose their own exercises, this generates a large number of questions, each one attempted by a small number of students. Thus, we could not use models based on big data, such as deep learning. Instead, we developed a simple-to-understand state-space model that predicts end-of-year national test scores. We used 2386 online fourth-grade mathematics questions designed by teachers, each attempted by some of the 500 students in 24 low socioeconomic schools. We found that the state-space model predictions improved month by month and that in most months, it outperformed linear regression models. Moreover, the state-space estimator provides for each month a direct mechanism to simulate different practice strategies and compute their impact on the end-of-year standardized national test. We built iso-impact curves based on two critical variables: the number of questions solved correctly in the first attempt and the total number of exercises attempted. This allows the teacher to visualize the trade-off between asking students to perform exercises more carefully or perform more exercises. To the best of our knowledge, this model is the first of its kind in education. It is a novel tool that supports teachers drive whole classes to achieve long-term learning targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Practical knowledge is essential for engineering education. With the COVID-19 pandemic, new challenges have arisen for remote practical learning (e.g., collaborations/experimentations with real equipment when face-to-face offerings are not possible). In this context, LabEAD is a remote lab project that aims to provide practical knowledge learning opportunities for Brazilian engineering students. This article describes how engineering project management methods consisting of application domains, requirement identification, technical solution specification, implementation, and delivery phases, were applied to the development of an Internet of Things (IoT) remote lab architecture. The distributed computing environment allows integration between students' smartphones and IoT devices deployed in campus labs and in student residences. The code is open-source for facilitated replication and reuse, and the remote lab was built in six months to enable six experiments for the digital electronics lab during the COVID-19 pandemic, covering all the experiments of the original face-to-face offering. More than 70% of the 32 students preferred remote labs over simulations, and only 2 were not approved in the digital electronics course offered remotely.Student perceptions collected by questionnaires showed that they could successfully specify, develop, and present their projects using the remote lab infrastructure in four weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the design, implementation methodology, and validation of a multi-bit flip-flop (FF) system that provides tolerance against single-event upsets (SEUs) and single-event transients (SETs) caused by radiation strikes. The proposed solution also has embedded timing pre-error sensing capability, which enables closed-loop integration of digital systems to work at optimal operating point (OPP) without any fail. It allows efficient real-time dynamic voltage frequency scaling (DVFS) implementation in the digital system. It helps detect aging-related and total ionizing dose (TID)-induced timing degradation in digital circuits. It can be implemented with any standard digital cell library (non-rad-hard), thereby providing a cost-effective solution for rad-hard applications. The design is implemented in ST BCD 90-nm technology in multiple configurations of bit sizes. A digital system based on ARM cortex M4 microprocessor has also been implemented with the proposed FF and put on silicon for testing to validate various capabilities of the proposed design. The results are presented based on simulations, electrical characterization, and radiation tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, it is hard to see an organization without a digital presence, while our modern society relies on a wide range of activities like banking, government services, commerce, or education that are offered online. Even more, the recent years have pushed the limits of digital transformation for multiple organizations, companies, and educational institutions. This transition occurred without any prior planning or preparation and at an unprecedented scale [1]. As the globe is converging towards a technology-driven society, cyber attacks and cyber crime campaigns are blooming. Recent reports show that cyber crime is growing in severity and frequency, competing with the traditional crime in both the number of incidents and revenue [2]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new type of economic management, which begins to be built nowadays and is based on the widespread use of information and communication technologies (ICT), has been named the «digital economy». The use of ICT and digital systems carries great advantages, comprehensively changes the national economies. The transition to digital economy is objective and irrevocable, so one needs to clearly understand this new essence, its features and development tendencies. The publication is aimed at outlining a modern understanding of the essence, determining the features, characteristics and peculiarities of digital economy, as well as defining tendencies in its development in the context of globalization of the world economy. The article explains the importance of ICT in economics, the creation of digital systems, the Internet of people and things, cyberphysical systems, various equipment and devices. The main results of widespread use of ICT, especially the development of the Internet, are formulated. Explanations of digitalization and digital transformation are provided. In general, the consequences of the use of ICT at the intra-organization, meso-economic and macro-economic levels are specified. The essence features of digital economy and the general bases of its emergence with an emphasis on the role of the Internet are distinguished. In this context, a number of characteristics of digital economy are defined. Four major approaches to determining the essence of digital economy (political-economic, technological, resource-factor, entrepreneurial) are substantiated. To disclose the structure of digital economy, its main types are distinguished, including the auxiliary ones (designing the websites, Internet marketing, analytics, etc.). The importance of payment transactions is emphasized. The use of ICT to ensure the activities of industrial enterprises and the creation of «smart» things, cities, infrastructure, etc. are taken into account. It is proposed to consider digital economy as a modernization and a new paradigm for the development of socio-economic systems. In this context, structural, organizational, managerial, institutional-legal, social, spatial features of such an economy are distinguished. The need to study the global aspects of the development of digital economy is emphasized, within terms of which the relevant tendencies are determined, taking into account the development of e-business, industries and market segments, the transformation of digital economy into a source of economic growth and development.

Ceramic restorations on zirconia framework can be used in different areas of the dental arch, integrating perfectly and can be indicated, concomitantly, in some coronal conditions such as dyschromia, moderate dental abrasions, dystrophies, incipient carious processes, dental dwarfism, dysplasia, dental fractures in the incisal third of the dental units and other malpositions, providing patients with superior results through good marginal adaptation and restoration of interdental relationships. CAD/CAM systems are now widely used in dentistry to make dental restorations. The introduction of these systems in dentistry has made it possible to meet the expectations of patients, who, with the help of chair-side systems, can benefit from high quality and precise prosthetic restorations in a single treatment session. The aim of this study is to individualize the correlation between the clinical and technological stages, the therapeutic solutions being anchored in the non-metallic register, the treatment decision being made according to the particularity of the clinical case, in order to achieve the final clinical success through the aesthetic requirements.