Herramientas de corte para optimizar parámetros de clasificación de especies maderables con redes neuronales convolucionales / Cutting tools to optimize classification parameters of timber species with convolutional neural networks

Introducción: La gran diversidad de especies maderables tropicales demanda el desarrollo de nuevas tecnologías de identificación con base en sus patrones o características anatómicas. La aplicación de redes neuronales convolucionales (CNN) para el reconocimiento de especies maderables tropicales se ha incrementado en los últimos años por sus resultados prometedores. Objetivo: Evaluamos la calidad de las imágenes macroscópicas con tres herramientas de corte para mejorar la visualización y distinción de las características anatómicas en el entrenamiento del modelo CNN. Métodos: Recolectamos las muestras entre el 2020 y 2021 en áreas de explotación forestal y aserraderos de Selva Central, Perú. Luego, las dimensionamos y, previo a la identificación botánica y anatómica, las cortamos en secciones transversales. Generamos una base de datos de imágenes macroscópicas de la sección transversal de la madera, a través del corte, con tres herramientas para ver su rendimiento en el laboratorio, campo y puesto de control. Resultados: Usamos tres herramientas de corte para obtener una alta calidad de imágenes transversales de la madera; obtuvimos 3 750 imágenes macroscópicas con un microscopio portátil que corresponden a 25 especies maderables. El cuchillo ''Tramontina'' es duradero, pero pierde el filo con facilidad y se necesita una herramienta para afilar, el cúter retráctil ''Pretul'' es adecuado para madera suave y dura en muestras pequeñas de laboratorio; el cuchillo ''Ubermann'' es apropiado para el campo, laboratorio y puesto de control, porque tiene una envoltura duradera y láminas intercambiables en caso de pérdida de filo. Conclusiones: La calidad de las imágenes es decisiva en la clasificación de especies maderables, porque permite una mejor visualización y distinción de las características anatómicas en el entrenamiento con los modelos de red neuronal convolucional EfficientNet B0 y Custom Vision, lo cual se evidenció en las métricas de precisión.

Introduction: The great diversity of tropical timber species demands the development of new technologies capable of identifying them based on their patterns or anatomical characteristics. The application of convolutional neural networks (CNN) for the recognition of tropical timber species has increased in recent years due to the promising results of CNNs. Objective: To evaluate the quality of macroscopic images with three cutting tools to improve the visualization and distinction of anatomical features in the CNN model training. Methods: Samples were collected from 2020 to 2021 in areas of logging and sawmills in the Central Jungle, Peru. They were later sized and, after botanical and anatomical identification, cut in cross sections. A database of macroscopic images of the cross-section of wood was generated through cutting with three different tools and observing its performance in the laboratory, field, and checkpoint. Results: Using three cutting tools, we obtained high quality images of the cross section of wood; 3 750 macroscopic images were obtained with a portable microscope and correspond to 25 timber species. We found the ''Tramontina'' knife to be durable, however, it loses its edge easily and requires a sharpening tool, the ''Pretul'' retractable cutter is suitable for cutting soft and hard wood in small laboratory samples and finally the ''Ubermann'' knife is suitable for use in the field, laboratory, and checkpoint, because it has a durable sheath and interchangeable blades in case of dullness. Conclusion: The quality of the images is decisive in the classification of timber species, because it allows a better visualization and distinction of the anatomical characteristics in training with the EfficientNet B0 and Custom Vision convolutional neural network models, which was evidenced in the precision metrics.

Las nanoestructuras de ZnO y sus aplicaciones como sensor de gas H2S / The ZnO nanostructures and their applications as a H2S gas sensor

RESUMEN Existe un interés global en la detección de gases tóxicos, para la protección del medio ambiente y los seres humanos. Se han desarrollado múltiples estudios enfocados en el uso de sensores de gases basados en óxidos metálicos, como es el óxido de zinc (ZnO), el cual presenta propiedades electrónicas específicas como sensor de gases por ser un semiconductor tipo n y bajo costo de producción. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar el uso de nanoestructuras de ZnO, para la fabricación de sensores del gas ácido sulfhídrico (H2S), así como las técnicas de obtención más comunes de dichas estructuras. Las características de las nanoestructuras de óxido de zinc (NE´s-ZnO) varían por efecto del método de obtención, generando diferentes morfologías y tamaño, que impactan en la capacidad de detección de gas (0.5 ppm a 600 ppm) y en el rango de temperatura que se requiere. Los avances en la generación de diversas NE´s-ZnO facilitarán la posibilidad de generar sensores que puedan ser utilizados en detectores portátiles y operen a temperatura ambiente, lo cual es un reto actual.

ABSTRACT There is a global interest in the detection of toxic gases for the protection of the environment and human beings, using low-cost and easy-to-use sensors. Multiple studies have focused on the use of gas detectors based on metal oxides, such as zinc oxide (ZnO), which has specific electronic properties as a gas detector because it is an n-type semiconductor and it has a low production cost. The objective of this work was to analyze the use of ZnO nanostructures for the manufacturing of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas sensors, as well as the most common techniques for obtaining these structures. The characteristics of zinc oxide nanostructures (NE´s-ZnO) vary due to the effect of the obtaining method, generating different morphologies and sizes, which impacts gas detection performance (0.5 ppm up to 600 ppm) and in the temperature range that is required. Advances in the design of various NE's-ZnO will have the possibility of generating sensors that can be used in portable detectors and operate at room temperature, which is a current challenge.

A comparison of the quality of images of chest X-ray between handheld portable digital X-ray & routinely used digital X-ray machine

Background & objectives: Chest X-ray (CXR) is an important screening tool for pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Accessibility to CXR facilities in difficult-to-reach and underserved populations is a challenge. This can potentially be overcome by deploying digital X-ray machines that are portable. However, these portable X-ray machines need to be validated before their deployment in the field. Here, we compare the image quality of CXR taken by a newly developed handheld X-ray machine with routinely used reference digital X-ray machine through the conduct of a feasibility study. Methods: A total of 100 participants with suspected pulmonary TB were recruited from the outpatient departments of a medical college and a community health centre in Agra. Each participant underwent CXR twice, once with each machine. Both sets of de-identified images were independently read by two radiologists, who were blinded to the type of X-ray machine used. The primary outcome was agreement between image qualities produced by these two machines. Results: The intra-observer (radiologist) agreements regarding the status of the 15 CXR parameters ranged between 74 per cent and 100 per cent, with an unweighted mean of 87.2 per cent (95% confidence interval: 71.5-100). The median Cohen’s kappa values for intra-observer agreement were 0.62 and 0.67 for radiologists 1 and 2, respectively. In addition, on comparison of the overall median score of quality of the image, the handheld machine images had a higher score for image quality. Interpretation & conclusions: The current study shows that a handheld X-ray machine, which is easy to use and can potentially be carried to any area, produces X-ray images with quality that is comparable to digital X-ray machines routinely used in health facilities.

Point-of-care testing technology and experimental diagnosis of insect-borne diseases: applications and challenges / 中华检验医学杂志

Insect-borne infections are causing serious public health concerns worldwide. Point-of-care testing technology for insect-borne diseases can rapidly and accurately determine the pathogens, thus it plays an important role in the application of portable disease control measurements. This article provides an overview of the point-of-care testing technology for insect-borne infectious diseases regarding its application, advantages and limitations in experimental diagnoses, and its future trends.

Actualización en equipos de Rayos X portátiles en odontología: revisión de literatura / Update on Hand-Held X-Ray Devices in Dentistry: a Literature Review

Resumen En las últimas dos décadas ha aumentado el uso de equipos portátiles de rayos X intraorales, los cuales son estabilizados por el operador. Si bien todos los equipos radiográficos presentan un riesgo inherente por el uso de radiación ionizante, el uso indebido de los equipos portátiles puede aumentar la exposición del operador. Se recomienda el uso de los equipos portátiles en un trípode o activados desde un área protegida. Sin embargo, en casos altamente justificados para su uso sin estos aditamentos, se debe seguir recomendaciones para disminuir la exposición del operador. Debido a que la radioprotección es fundamental al trabajar con rayos X, se debe favorecer el uso de equipos radiográficos dentales fijos sobre los equipos portátiles, ya que estos proporcionan una menor dosis de radiación al operador.

Abstract In the last two decades, the use of portable intraoral X-ray devices, stabilized by the operator, has increased. While all radiographic devices present an inherent risk from ionizing radiation, improper use of portable devices can increase operator exposure. Use of portable devices on a tripod or powered from a protected area is recommended. However, in highly justified cases, for using without these accessories, recommendations should be followed to reduce operator exposure. Because radioprotection is essential when using X-rays, fixed dental radiographic devices should be favored over portable equipment since the first provides a lower radiation dose to the operator.

A cross-sectional e-survey to map clinical practice of electrocardiogram use as a screening tool in outpatient department: India office electrocardiogram e-survey

Background:Early detection of electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities in high risk cardiovascular patients with routine ECG screening is the need of the hour. The aim of the e-survey was to understand the use of ECG in high risk cardio-metabolically deranged patients at outpatient departments (OPDs) by Indian physicians.Methods:A cross-sectional India office ECG (IOECG) e-survey was conducted using Google form questionnaire from November 2021 to December 2021 among Indian physicians. Survey results were collected and analysed using Google form survey tool.Results:We received total of 1863 responses. The results of the survey showed that while 90% of physicians agreed to the necessity of doing 12 lead ECG of cardio-metabolically deranged patients, only 61% of all physicians could perform ECG screening in less than 40% of high risk cardio-metabolic patients mainly, due to several practical challenges. Among physicians, 40.2% physicians believed that 12 lead ECG was too time consuming, 35.8% physicians believed that the unavailability of ECG device was common reason while 27.5% physicians believed that there was a lack of trained staff. Majority of physicians (69.7%) agreed to use point of care ECG device which can be a solution for more screening of such patients whether symptomatic or asymptomatic. According to the survey, 88.7% physicians would appreciate if a portable handheld ECG device was made available to facilitate screening in their practice.Conclusions:There is a need of the portable handheld ECG device which helps physicians to screen large number of cardio-metabolically deranged patients in their busy OPDs.

Clinical and toxicological findings in nitrate and nitrite poisoning in cattle in Northeastern Brazil / Achados clínicos e toxicológicos na intoxicação por nitrato e nitrito em bovinos no Nordeste do Brasil

We report two outbreaks of nitrate and nitrite poisoning in Paraíba, Northeast Brazil. The first, due to Pennisetum purpureum (elephant grass), and the second, due to P. purpureum and Brachiaria spp. (brachiaria grass), both occurred during a prolonged drought. In the first outbreak, the irrigation of the pastures with wastewater and sewage contributed to nitrate accumulation. The second outbreak occurred in pastures cultivated in the border of a dam, that had been submerged for long time accumulating large amounts of organic matter in the soil. Other probably risk factors for nitrate accumulation included the use of chemical fertilizers and herbicides and burning of the vegetation. In the first outbreak, four calves out of a total of 42 cattle died, and in the second outbreak 49 out of 243 cattle, including adults, yearlings, and a 2-day-old calf died. The clinical signs included dyspnea, cyanosis, ataxia, and falls, leading to death. The presence of nitrates was detected in both outbreaks using the diphenylamine test. Quantitative tests were performed in the second outbreak using a portable nitrate meter, and high nitrate concentrations were found. The characteristic macroscopic findings and absence of microscopic lesions and response to treatment with methylene blue were key to the diagnosis of poisoning by nitrates and nitrites. We conclude that poisoning by nitrates and nitrites in ruminants in the semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil is frequent due to the cultivation of grasses in the border of dams that had been covered by water for long periods or in areas irrigated by wastewater and/or sewage. In addition, the use of a portable measuring device is an effective alternative for the quantification of nitrates in pastures.(AU)

Relatamos dois surtos de intoxicação por nitrato e nitrito na Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. O primeiro por Pennisetum purpureum (capim-elefante), e o segundo por P. purpureum e Brachiaria spp. (capim braquiária); ambos ocorreram durante uma estiagem prolongada. No primeiro surto, a irrigação das pastagens com água poluída e esgoto contribuiu para o acúmulo de nitrato. O segundo surto ocorreu em pastagens cultivadas na borda de uma barragem, que há muito tempo ficavam submersas, acumulando grande quantidade de matéria orgânica no solo. Outros prováveis fatores de risco para o acúmulo de nitrato incluíram o uso de fertilizantes químicos e herbicidas e a queima da vegetação. No primeiro surto, quatro bezerros de um total de 42 bovinos morreram, e no segundo surto 49 de 243 bovinos, incluindo adultos, jovens de um ano e um bezerro de 2 dias de idade morreram. Os sinais clínicos incluíram dispneia, cianose, ataxia e quedas, levando à morte. A presença de nitratos foi detectada em ambos os surtos pelo teste de difenilamina. Testes quantitativos foram realizados no segundo surto usando um medidor portátil de nitrato, e altas concentrações de nitrato foram encontradas. Os achados macroscópicos característicos e a ausência de lesões microscópicas e a resposta ao tratamento com azul de metileno foram fundamentais para o diagnóstico de intoxicação por nitratos e nitritos. Concluímos que a intoxicação por nitratos e nitritos em ruminantes na região semiárida do Nordeste do Brasil é frequente devido ao cultivo de gramíneas nas bordas de barragens que estiveram cobertas por água por longos períodos ou em áreas irrigadas por água poluída e/ou esgoto. Além disso, o uso de medidor portátil é uma alternativa eficaz para a quantificação de nitratos em pastagens.(AU)

Simulation of detection efficiency of a portable NaI(Tl) γ spectrometer for monitoring 131I in the thyroid / 中华放射医学与防护杂志

Objective:To simulate the effects of different thyroid-neck phantoms and monitoring positions on the detection efficiency of portable γ spectrometer, and to provide guidance for more accurate on-site measurement of 131I activity in the human thyroid. Methods:Based on the models of 4 typical thyroid-neck phantoms and a 3-inch NaI (TI) γ spectrometer used for the measurement of 131I in the thyroid and combined with the possible field monitoring scenarios, the Monte Carlo method was used to simulate and calculate the detection efficiency of the spectrometer under different conditions of monitoring distance, thyroid depth and thyroid volume. Results:The detection efficiency decreased significantly with the increase in the distance between the detector and the neck surface. The efficiency close to the neck surface was about 15 times that at 15 cm away from the neck surface. The detection efficiency decreased significantly with the increase in thyroid depth. When it was measured at the surface of the neck, the detection efficiency of thyroid at depth of 2 mm was about 3.6 times that of 30 mm. The detection efficiency decreases with the increase in thyroid volume. When it was measured at the neck surface, the detection efficiency of thyroid with 1 ml volume was 1.71 times that with 30 ml. The detection efficiency decreased with the center-point offset of the detector, especially at the neck surface, an offset of 2 cm would reduce the detection efficiency by about 15%.Conclusions:Not only the measurement distance used in calibration, but also the information of the depth and volume of thyroid in the neck-thyroid phantom, is important to know in advance for an accurate measurement of 131I activity in thyroid by using a portable gamma spectrometer.

Clinical and toxicological findings in nitrate and nitrite poisoning in cattle in Northeastern Brazil / Achados clínicos e toxicológicos na intoxicação por nitrato e nitrito em bovinos no Nordeste do Brasil

We report two outbreaks of nitrate and nitrite poisoning in Paraíba, Northeast Brazil. The first, due to Pennisetum purpureum (elephant grass), and the second, due to P. purpureum and Brachiaria spp. (brachiaria grass), both occurred during a prolonged drought. In the first outbreak, the irrigation of the pastures with wastewater and sewage contributed to nitrate accumulation. The second outbreak occurred in pastures cultivated in the border of a dam, that had been submerged for long time accumulating large amounts of organic matter in the soil. Other probably risk factors for nitrate accumulation included the use of chemical fertilizers and herbicides and burning of the vegetation. In the first outbreak, four calves out of a total of 42 cattle died, and in the second outbreak 49 out of 243 cattle, including adults, yearlings, and a 2-day-old calf died. The clinical signs included dyspnea, cyanosis, ataxia, and falls, leading to death. The presence of nitrates was detected in both outbreaks using the diphenylamine test. Quantitative tests were performed in the second outbreak using a portable nitrate meter, and high nitrate concentrations were found. The characteristic macroscopic findings and absence of microscopic lesions and response to treatment with methylene blue were key to the diagnosis of poisoning by nitrates and nitrites. We conclude that poisoning by nitrates and nitrites in ruminants in the semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil is frequent due to the cultivation of grasses in the border of dams that had been covered by water for long periods or in areas irrigated by wastewater and/or sewage. In addition, the use of a portable measuring device is an effective alternative for the quantification of nitrates in pastures.

Relatamos dois surtos de intoxicação por nitrato e nitrito na Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. O primeiro por Pennisetum purpureum (capim-elefante), e o segundo por P. purpureum e Brachiaria spp. (capim braquiária); ambos ocorreram durante uma estiagem prolongada. No primeiro surto, a irrigação das pastagens com água poluída e esgoto contribuiu para o acúmulo de nitrato. O segundo surto ocorreu em pastagens cultivadas na borda de uma barragem, que há muito tempo ficavam submersas, acumulando grande quantidade de matéria orgânica no solo. Outros prováveis fatores de risco para o acúmulo de nitrato incluíram o uso de fertilizantes químicos e herbicidas e a queima da vegetação. No primeiro surto, quatro bezerros de um total de 42 bovinos morreram, e no segundo surto 49 de 243 bovinos, incluindo adultos, jovens de um ano e um bezerro de 2 dias de idade morreram. Os sinais clínicos incluíram dispneia, cianose, ataxia e quedas, levando à morte. A presença de nitratos foi detectada em ambos os surtos pelo teste de difenilamina. Testes quantitativos foram realizados no segundo surto usando um medidor portátil de nitrato, e altas concentrações de nitrato foram encontradas. Os achados macroscópicos característicos e a ausência de lesões microscópicas e a resposta ao tratamento com azul de metileno foram fundamentais para o diagnóstico de intoxicação por nitratos e nitritos. Concluímos que a intoxicação por nitratos e nitritos em ruminantes na região semiárida do Nordeste do Brasil é frequente devido ao cultivo de gramíneas nas bordas de barragens que estiveram cobertas por água por longos períodos ou em áreas irrigadas por água poluída e/ou esgoto. Além disso, o uso de medidor portátil é uma alternativa eficaz para a quantificação de nitratos em pastagens.

A novel portable endoscopy system for upper gastrointestinal examination: a multicenter clinical study / 中华消化内镜杂志

Objective:To evaluate the performance, efficacy and safety of a novel portable endoscopy system for upper gastrointestinal examination.Methods:A multicentered, open-label, randomized, non-inferiority controlled study was conducted in 3 clinical research centers from June 2019 to June 2020, and a total of 90 outpatients admitted to Department of Gastroenterology were randomly assigned to the trial group ( n=44) undergoing portable endoscopy and the control group ( n=46) undergoing Olympus endoscopy. The examination success rate, image quality, performance, overall operation satisfaction rate, biopsy success rate and adverse events of the two groups were compared. Results:The examination success rates of the trial group and the control group were 97.73% (43/44) and 100.00% (46/46) respectively with a difference of -2.27% (95% CI: -6.68%-2.13%), higher than the set non-inferiority margin of -10%. Rates of good and excellent image quality were 100% in both groups, and the difference of 0 was higher than the set non-inferiority margin of -10%. There was no significant difference in the rate of good and excellent performance of the operating system between the two groups [97.67% (42/43) VS 100.00% (46/46), P=0.483]. There was significant difference in the overall satisfactory rate of the operation between the two groups [86.05% (37/43) VS 100.00% (46/46), P=0.011]. A total of 9 cases underwent endoscopic biopsy, including 5 cases in the trial group and 4 cases in the control group. The biopsy channels in both groups were smooth and the biopsy were successfully completed. There was no significant difference in adverse event rate between the two groups [25.00% (11/44) VS 10.87%(5/46), χ2=3.07, P=0.080]. All adverse events disappeared in 48 hours, and no severe adverse events or device defect events occurred. Conclusion:The novel portable endoscopic system is comparable to Olympus endoscopic system in terms of the operating performance, the image quality and safety. Therefore, this system is safe and effective for upper gastrointestinal examination.

Investigation of two types of portable γ spectrometer applicability for measurement of thyroid 131I activity and internal doses to radiation workers / 中华放射医学与防护杂志

Objective:To investigate the differences in applicability of both the portable high-purity germanium (HPGe) γ spectrometer and the portable lanthanum bromide (LaBr) γ spectrometer for measuring thyroid 131I activity and internal exposure monitoring for radiation workers. Method:Both DETECTIVE-DX100-KT portable HPGe γ spectrometer and InSpector 1000 portable LaBr γ spectrometer were used to measure the 131I content in thyroid of radiation workers for comparison of the measuring result, minimum detectable activity (MDA) and corresponding annual committed effective doses between two types of spectrometers. Results:The detection rate of 131I in thyroid of radiation workers was 67.7% for HPGe γ spectrometer and 26.2% for LaBr γ spectrometer, respectively. The MDA was 12.26-14.74 Bq (measuring time: 3-5 min) for HPGe γ spectrometer and 56.56-80.37 Bq for LaBr γ spectrometer (measuring time: 2-4 min). The annual committed effective dose corresponding to MDA was 0.07-0.08 mSv (3-5 min) for HPGe and 0.31-0.45 mSv (2-4 min) for LaBr, respectively, in the case of using chronic continuous intake mode and 7 d monitoring period. Conclusions:The minimum detectable activity (MDA) of the two types of portable spectrometers could meet the requirements specified in GBZ 129-2016 Specifications for individual monitoring of occupational internal exposure for thyroid monitoring equipment. The two types of spectrometers could be used for routine monitoring of internal contamination. The difference between the monitoring result of LaBr γ and HPGe γ spectrometers might be due to such factors as large uncertainty in short measuring time and low activity concentrations, incomplete identical of distance between probe and neck, probe angle setting, different response of equipment to the environment, background deduction method.

Rapid Detection of Adulteration of Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus Based on Portable Near Infrared Spectroscopy / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveIn order to establish a systematic quality evaluation system for Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus adulteration， portable near-infrared （NIR） spectroscopy was used to identify Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus and its adulterants and detect their adulteration quantity. MethodA total of 72 batches of Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus samples were collected and 570 batches of adulterated products （dry bulbs of Fritillaria thunbergii， F. ussuriensis， F. pallidiflora and F. hupehensis， Bulbus Tulipae， flour） were prepared， NIR spectral data of samples were collected by the portable NIR spectrometer. Linear discriminant analysis （LDA） was used to establish the qualitative correction models of Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus-adulterants and adulterants of different categories， partial least squares （PLS） was used to establish the quantitative correction models of adulteration quantity of different kinds of adulterants. ResultThe recognition rates of qualitative analysis model of Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus and its adulterants were 99.49% （calibration set） and 100.00% （validation set）， respectively. In different adulterant models， the recognition rates of calibration set and validation set were 70.47% and 73.68%， respectively. Moreover， the correlation coefficients of validation set （R2P） of the six quantitative models of adulteration ratio were 0.840 2 （Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus adulterated with F. thunbergii dry bulbs）， 0.960 2 （Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus adulterated with F. ussuriensis dry bulbs）， 0.765 7 （Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus adulterated with F. pallidiflora dry bulbs）， 0.902 5 （Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus adulterated with F. hupehensis dry bulbs）， 0.957 4 （Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus adulterated with Bulbus Tulipae）， 0.976 1 （Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus adulterated with flour）， the root mean square error of prediction （RMSEP） were 10.948 5， 5.463 9， 13.256 4， 8.549 2， 5.655 3， 4.235 6， respectively. The two qualitative models and six quantitative models showed good prediction performance. ConclusionThe portable NIR spectroscopy can be used to identify Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus and its adulterants in real time， the method is rapid and accurate， which can meet the requirements of nondestructive identification of Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus on site.

Portable Multi Channel EEG Signal Acquisition System / 中国医疗器械杂志

This study introduces a portable multi-channel EEG signal acquisition system. The system is mainly composed of EEG electrode connector, signal conditioning circuit, EEG acquisition part, main control MCU and power supply part. The low-power EEG acquisition front-end ADS1299 and STM32 are used to form the signal acquisition and data communication part. The collected EEG signal can be transmitted to the PC for real-time display. After relevant tests, the system has small volume, low power consumption, high signal-to-noise ratio, and meets the requirements of portable wearable medical devices.

Design and implementation for portable ultrasound-aided breast cancer screening system / 生物医学工程学杂志

Early screening is an important means to reduce breast cancer mortality. In order to solve the problem of low breast cancer screening rates caused by limited medical resources in remote and impoverished areas, this paper designs a breast cancer screening system aided with portable ultrasound Clarius. The system automatically segments the tumor area of the B-ultrasound image on the mobile terminal and uses the ultrasound radio frequency data on the cloud server to automatically classify the benign and malignant tumors. Experimental results in this study show that the accuracy of breast tumor segmentation reaches 98%, and the accuracy of benign and malignant classification reaches 82%, and the system is accurate and reliable. The system is easy to set up and operate, which is convenient for patients in remote and poor areas to carry out early breast cancer screening. It is beneficial to objectively diagnose disease, and it is the first time for the domestic breast cancer auxiliary screening system on the mobile terminal.

Tecnologia digital para o enfrentamento da Covid-19: um estudo de caso na atenção primária / Digital technology to face COVID-19: a case study in primary care

RESUMO Em países desenvolvidos, a utilização de recursos tecnológicos digitais é considerada uma ferramenta potente para o enfrentamento da Covid-19. No entanto, no Brasil, a implantação desses recursos nas unidades de saúde ainda é bastante deficitária e não priorizada pela gestão. O propósito deste trabalho é relatar a experiência de implantação do aplicativo InfoSaúde, iniciada em julho de 2020, na atenção primária, para a otimização das ações direcionadas ao controle da Covid-19 em uma comunidade vulnerável. A definição dos requisitos do aplicativo e dos fluxos operacionais foram obtidos por meio de questionários padronizados para os profissionais de saúde e usuários, resultando em três macroprocessos: Prevenção, Atendimento e Monitoramento, testados e validados pelos profissionais e usuários, e com interface ao sistema de informação da unidade. Os resultados encontrados foram: a) Retorno às ações de prevenção com informação a distância; b) Agilização das intervenções pela integração de setores de: Assistência, Laboratório e Vigilância; redução da sobrecarga de trabalho e risco ocupacional com atividades a distância; e c) Melhoria no sistema de informação e capacidade de intervenção precoce a distância. A implantação de recurso tecnológico simples na atenção primária é factível, contribuindo para integralidade do cuidado, redução do risco ocupacional e carga de trabalho.

ABSTRACT In developed countries, the use of digital technological resources is a powerful tool to face COVID-19. However, in Brazil, the implementation of these resources in the public health clinics is still very deficient and not prioritized by the management. The purpose of this paper is to report the experience of implementing the InfoSaúde application, started in July 2020, in primary care, for the optimization of actions aimed at controlling COVID-19 in a vulnerable community. The definition of application requirements and operational flows was based by standardized questionnaires for health professionals and users, which resulted in three macro-processes: Prevention, Care and Monitoring, tested and validated by professionals and users with an interface to the clinic's information system. The results were as follows: a) Return to prevention actions with remote information; b) Streamlining interventions by integrating the Assistance, Laboratory and Surveillance sectors; reduction of work overload and occupational risk with distance activities and, c) Improvement in the information system and capacity for early intervention at a distance. The implementation of a simple technological resource in primary care is feasible, contributing to comprehensive care, reducing occupational risk, and workload.

Estimativa do número de amostras de solo para caracterizar elementos químicos utilizando fluorescência de raios X portátil em áreas contaminadas: estudo de caso em Resende / Estimation of the number of soil samples for characterization of chemical elements using portable X-ray fluorescence in contaminated areas: a case study in Resende

RESUMO A representatividade da amostragem é fundamental para embasar a tomada de decisão, uma vez que a heterogeneidade da matriz é o principal fator para incerteza dos dados nos estudos de gerenciamento de áreas contaminadas. Neste estudo, coletaram-se 112 amostras de solo superficial em malha quadrada de 1 x 1 m, em uma área 15 x 6 m, no campus regional de Resende da Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro. Anteriormente, no terreno funcionaram empresas de produção de filmes radiográficos e purificação de prata metálica. As amostras de solo foram analisadas por pXRF, método de screening para metais. Com base nos dados levantados, calculou-se, por meio de métodos estatísticos, a quantidade de amostras que permitiriam uma caracterização representativa da área, considerando um erro relativo de 20% para dois intervalos de confiança: 95 e 80%. As análises indicaram concentrações superiores aos valores de referência para os parâmetros prata, mercúrio, chumbo, selênio e zinco. Os resultados de mercúrio possivelmente referem-se a ruído espectral, não estando relacionados ao histórico de uso e ocupação. Os coeficientes de variação das concentrações dos elementos analisados variaram de 132 a 225%. Considerando uma distribuição lognormal, calcularam-se 76 amostras para o maior intervalo de confiança e 53 para o menor. Isso seria o equivalente a transectos com espaçamentos de 1,47 e 2,11 m. Os resultados ratificam a necessidade de investigações de alta resolução nas áreas fonte, conforme recomendado pela Decisão de Diretoria da Companhia Ambiental do Estado de São Paulo nº 038/2017/C (DD-038).

ABSTRACT The representativeness of the sampling is fundamental to support decisions, since the heterogeneity of the matrix is the main factor for data uncertainty in contaminated areas management studies. In this study, 112 surface soil samples were collected in a square mesh of 1 x 1 m, in an area of 15 x 6 m, at the Campus Regional de Resende (CRR) of Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ). Previously, companies of radiographic films production and metallic silver purification operated in this area. The soil samples were analyzed by pXRF, a screening method for metals detection. Based on the data collected, the number of samples that would allow a representative characterization of the area was calculated, using statistical methods, considering a relative error of 20% for 80 and 95% confidence intervals. The analyses indicated concentrations higher than the reference values for the parameters silver, mercury, lead, selenium, and zinc. The results of mercury possibly refer to spectral noise, not being related to the history of use and occupancy. The coefficient of variation of the soil obtained ranged from 132 to 225%. Considering a lognormal distribution, 76 samples were calculated for the highest confidence interval and 53 for the lowest. This would be the equivalent of transects with spacings of approximately 1.47 and 2.11 m. The results confirm the need for high resolution investigations in the source areas, as recommended by the Executive Board Decision of CETESB No. 038/2017/C (DD-038).

Assessment of changes in the electrical activity of the brain during general anesthesia using portable electroencephalography / Evaluación de los cambios de la actividad eléctrica cerebral durante anestesia general usando electroencefalografía portable

Abstract Introduction The analysis of the electrical activity of the brain using scalp electrodes with electroencephalography (EEG) could reveal the depth of anesthesia of a patient during surgery. However, conventional EEG equipment, due to its price and size, are not a practical option for the operating room and the commercial units used in surgery do not provide access to the electrical activity. The availability of low-cost portable technologies could provide for further research on the brain activity under general anesthesia and facilitate our quest for new markers of depth of anesthesia. Objective To assess the capabilities of a portable EEG technology to capture brain rhythms associated with the state of consciousness and the general anesthesia status of surgical patients anesthetized with propofol. Methods Observational, cross-sectional study that reviewed 10 EEG recordings captured using OpenBCI portable low-cost technology, in female patients undergoing general anesthesia with propofol. The signal from the frontal electrodes was analyzed with spectral analysis and the results were compared against the reports in the literature. Results The signal captured with frontal electrodes, particularly α rhythm, enabled the distinction between resting with eyes closed and with eyes opened in a conscious state, and sustained anesthesia during surgery. Conclusions It is possible to differentiate a resting state from sustained anesthesia, replicating previous findings with conventional technologies. These results pave the way to the use of portable technologies such as the OpenBCI tool, to explore the brain dynamics during anesthesia.

Resumen Introducción El análisis de la actividad eléctrica cerebral mediante electrodos ubicados sobre el cuero cabelludo con electroencefalografía (EEG) podría permitir conocer la profundidad anestésica de un paciente durante cirugía. Sin embargo, los equipos de EEG convencionales, por su precio y tamaño, no son una alternativa práctica en quirófanos y los equipos comerciales usados en cirugía no permiten acceder a la actividad eléctrica. Disponer de tecnologías portables y de bajo costo aumentaría el número de investigaciones sobre la actividad cerebral bajo anestesia general y facilitaría la búsqueda de nuevos marcadores para la profundidad anestésica. Objetivo Evaluar la capacidad de una tecnología EEG portable de adquirir ritmos cerebrales relacionados con el estado consciente y el estado de anestesia general de pacientes en cirugía anestesiados con propofol. Métodos Estudio observacional de corte transversal en el que se analizaron datos de 10 registros EEG obtenidos mediante tecnología portable y de bajo costo OpenBCI, de pacientes de sexo femenino que fueron sometidas a anestesia general con propofol. La señal obtenida de los electrodos frontales se analizó mediante análisis espectral y se contrastaron los resultados con lo descrito en la literatura. Resultados La señal obtenida con electrodos frontales, especialmente el ritmo α, permitió diferenciar el reposo con ojos cerrados y ojos abiertos en estado consciente, del estado de mantenimiento de la anestesia durante cirugía. Conclusiones Se logra la diferenciación de estado de reposo y de mantenimiento de la anestesia replicando hallazgos previos de tecnologías convencionales. Estos resultados abren la posibilidad de utilizar las tecnologías portables como el OpenBCI para investigar la dinámica cerebral durante la anestesia.

Comparison of alignment and operative time between portable accelerometer-based navigation device and computer assisted surgery in total knee arthroplasty / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the differences of alignment and operative time between portable accelerometer-based navigation device (PAD) and computer assisted surgery (CAS) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).@*METHODS@#Data of patients using iASSIST (a kind of PAD) and OrthoPilot (a kind of CAS) for TKA in Peking University Third Hospital from December 2017 to December 2019 were retrospectively collected. The differences of preoperative general data, preoperative alignment, operative time and postoperative alignment were studied between the two groups.@*RESULTS@#A total of 82 patients were enrolled in our study, including 40 patients in the PAD group and 42 patients in the CAS group. Gender, age, body mass index (BMI), surgical side, preoperative hip-knee-ankle (HKA) angle and preoperative HKA angle deviation didn't show statistically significant difference between the PAD group and the CAS group (P>0.05). Postoperative HKA angle (180.8°±2.2° vs.181.8±1.6°, t=－2.458, P=0.016) and postoperative coronal femoral-component angle (CFA, 90.6°±1.8° vs. 91.6°±1.6°, t =－2.749, P=0.007) of the PAD group were smaller than those of the CAS group, but there was no significant difference in coronal tibia-component angle (CTA, 90.0°±1.3° vs.89.6°±1.4°, t=1.335, P=0.186) between the two groups. There was no significant difference in the rate of outliers (varus or valgus > 3°) for postoperative HKA angle (10.0% vs.11.9%, χ2 =0.076, P=0.783), CFA (12.5% vs. 14.3%, χ2=0.056, P=0.813) and CTA (2.5% vs. 0%, χ2=1.063, P=0.303). There was no significant difference in the accuracy of postoperative HKA angle (2.1° vs. 2.0°, t=0.055, P=0.956), CFA (1.4° vs. 1.8°, t=－1.365, P=0.176) and CTA (1.0° vs. 1.1°, t=－0.828, P=0.410) between the two groups. The precision of postoperative HKA angle (1.1° vs. 1.3°, F=1.251, P=0.267), CFA (1.3° vs. 1.4°, F=0.817, P=0.369) and CTA (0.8° vs. 0.9°, F=0.937, P=0.336) were also not significantly different. We also didn't find statistically significant difference in operative time between the two groups [(83.4±25.6) min vs. (86.5±17.7) min, t=－0.641, P=0.524].@*CONCLUSION@#PAD and CAS had similar accuracy and precision in alignment in TKA, and there was no significant difference in operative time, which indicates that PAD has a broad application prospect in TKA.

The 21st century gonioscopy: A technical paper / The Health Sciences Journal

OBJECTIVE@#The aim of this paper was to create a Portable Gonioscopy System (PGS) that is effcient and cost-effective in documenting iridocorneal angles.@*METHODS@#A 4-mirror gonioscopy prism lens was attached to a portable USB microscope with a built-in camera. The microscope was then connected to a laptop for viewing of the images. A lubricant was instilled and the portable gonioscope was placed parallel to the cornea for viewing and recording of iridocorneal angles. Images were fled and stored in a laptop.@*RESULTS@#The portable gonioscopy system allowed suffcient viewing and recording of the iridocorneal angles. The total cost of producing the portable gonioscopy system was PHP 25,000.00.@*CONCLUSION@#Iridocorneal angles can be visualized and recorded using the portable gonioscopy system. This device requires skill and expertise from professional prototypist to create. Like gonioscopy, this system also has a steep learning curve. The researchers are continuously improving the device adding more features and making it more affordable and easier to use.

Clinical assessment of acid-base balance in Netherland Dwarf rabbit / Avaliação clínica do equilíbrio ácido-básico em coelhos Anã Holandês

Pet rabbits have increased their popularity in a lot of countries. However, most of the laboratory profiles in rabbit medicine come from the observations made in rabbit as biomodels or meat production. So that further researches are necessary to obtain reference values for hematology and biochemical profiles in pet rabbits and the different breeds, especially, in relation to acid-base balance. The aim of this report was to offer the mean values of the main parameters connected with acid-base profile in Netherland Dwarf breed. Thirty-five healthy rabbits (15 males and 20 females) were studied. Venous blood sample from lateral saphenous vein was analyzed to measure: haematocrit, haemoglobin, blood urea nitrogen, glucose, blood pH, partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2), total CO2, ions bicarbonate, chloride, sodium, potassium, base excess and anion Gap. Results showed a shorter range that those reported by different researchers. Moreover, differences between genders were showed in pCO2, its values were higher in males. It may be associated with a greater cellular metabolism. Values obtained in this research should be taken into account by veterinary clinicians for this breed in their clinical assessments. Besides, these values provide new results in parameters with few reference values.

A popularidade de coelhos como animais de estimação aumentou em muitos países. No entanto, a maioria dos perfis de laboratório em medicina de coelhos advém das observações de biomodelos animais ou da produção de carne. Assim, são necessárias pesquisas adicionais para obter valores de referência para hematologia e perfis bioquímicos em coelhos de estimação, e das diferentes raças, especialmente, em relação ao equilíbrio ácido-base. O objetivo deste relatório foi oferecer os valores médios dos principais parâmetros ligados ao perfil ácido-base na raça Anã Holandês. Trinta e cinco coelhos saudáveis ​​(15 machos e 20 fêmeas) foram estudados. A amostra de sangue venoso da veia safena lateral foi analisada para mensuração: hematócrito, hemoglobina, nitrogênio ureico sanguíneo, glicose, pH sanguíneo, pressão parcial de CO2 (pCO2), CO2 total, íons bicarbonato, cloreto, sódio, potássio, excesso de base e ânion Gap. Os resultados apresentaram um intervalo menor do que aqueles relatados por diferentes pesquisadores. Além disso, as diferenças entre os gêneros foram mostradas na pCO2, seus valores foram maiores no sexo masculino. Pode estar associado a um maior metabolismo celular. Os valores obtidos nesta pesquisa devem ser levados em consideração pelos clínicos veterinários para esta raça em suas avaliações clínicas. Além disso, esses valores fornecem novos resultados em parâmetros com poucos valores de referencia.