Handheld Devices Research Articles

Transforming and Modernizing Population and Housing Censuses in Africa: Experiences from the 2020 Round (2015-2024)

The objective of our organization is to assist African National Statistical Offices (NSOs) to transition from manual to digital systems, use better methods and new technologies, and increase the reliability and accessibility of their statistics. Innovative approaches adopted to support the transformation to digital censuses include: Use of hand-held devices at the enumeration and dissemination stages to improve data collection and usability respectively. Use of GIS, GPS and digital remote-sensing to enable census-mapping. Provisioning of tablets – sourcing and sharing. Electronic operations dashboards to enable real-time monitoring of progress and quality of enumeration. Automatic data linkage algorithms for census to post-enumeration survey matching. Capacity building initiatives for NSO staff. As a result, to date 29 censuses have been carried out in the 2020 Round, with another 19 planned for 2024/25. Delays have been caused by economic, security and political constraints, as well as the Covid-19 pandemic. The implications of adopting new technologies are clear. Electronic data collection improves quality, reduces processing time and enabled enumeration during the pandemic by minimizing face-to-face contact. We will support documentation of experiences and lessons learnt in the current census round to contribute to the 2030 round. In conclusion, the challenge of working during the pandemic gives NSOs an opportunity to ‘build back better’ and transition to full digital systems. There is a need to focus on the types of results that make the most difference e.g., on disaggregation, small area statistics, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) reporting, Agenda 2063 reporting, and monitoring of national development plans.

An Analysis the Energy Consumption of Dynamic Task Offloading and Task Execution in MCC

Cloud computing is a group of distributed computing resources that may run any application. MCC is the result of merging the cloud environment with mobile devices. computational offloading is carried out on the cloud in order to save the processing capacity of handheld devices. There will be a rise in computing as the number of sensors used increases, necessitating greater data analysis. Another problem with mobile environments is the power drain on batteries. One solution is to move the work to a remote location where it can be more efficiently executed. In this off-site setting, you'll find powerful cloud servers with plenty of processing capacity. One way that dense mobile apps were able to move their work to the cloud is through computational offload. why it's important to provide a proper explanation of the time constraint in wireless & distant environments, and how reaction time affects offloading for mobile devices & remote servers.

Center-concave nanosheets of core-shell WO3@Prussian blue based handheld microchip-devices for ultrasensitive lysine determination

Lysine is one of the essential amino acids for human body, and its imbalance is a major cause to anemia, aging process, leukemia cell proliferation and tumor growth. Therefore, its monitoring is dominative to the prevention the disease progress and guidance to the clinical treatment. However, traditional in-hospital detection methods, such as colorimetry and fluorometric, often suffer the disadvantages of high cost and long time-consuming. These drawbacks show a difficulty in the home-in and dairy monitoring for the lysine regulation in body. In this study, we have proposed an ultrasensitive microchip-based portable device to achieve the onsite and precise determination of lysine within only 10 s. This microchip was functionalized through constructing a center-concave nanosheet of core-shell WO3@Prussian blue (WO3@PB) to remarkably strengthen the generation and transfer of the detection signal. In this special architecture, the core WO3 nanosheet can be exposed at the center region of this nanocomposite to effectively promote the enzymatic oxidation, while the PB shell enables to strongly reduce the H2O2 produced by the enzymatic reaction. Under above synergetic effects, a handheld device was designed to support the plug-and-play microchip, which performed an outstanding accuracy for the lysine detection in blood.

P124 CARDIOVASCULAR RISK RE-CLASSIFICATION BY IMPLEMENTING CAROTID ULTRASONOGRAPHY IN PRIMARY CARE

Background and Objective: The accurate assessment of the total cardiovascular risk (CVR) using risk calculation algorithms in individuals with CVR factors in the primary prevention setting is essential for optimal management decisions, including drug treatment initiation and treatment goals. The aim of this study was to evaluate the contribution of ultrasonographic identification of asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis in the re-classification of the CVR assessed with the reference SCORE2/2-OP algorithm. Methods: In individuals aged ≥40 years without established cardiovascular disease, the 10-year CVR was calculated using the SCORE2/2-OP algorithm (3 risk categories: low/moderate, high, and very high). Carotid ultrasound study was applied using a portable handheld device (Lumify, Philips) to classify CVR as follows: (i) low/moderate (absence of atherosclerotic plaque), (i) high (atherosclerotic plaque with <50% stenosis), (iii) very high (atherosclerotic plaque with ≥50% stenosis). Results: Data from 332 participants were analysed [age 59±7.5 years, men 41%, current smokers 26%, body mass index 28±5 kg/m2, office blood pressure 125±15/77±10 mmHg (systolic/diastolic), LDL-cholesterol 111±33 mg/dl]. Based on SCORE2/2-OP, 49/46/5% participants were categorised as of low/moderate, high, and very high CVR, respectively. Based on carotid ultrasound, the rates were 39/59/2%, respectively. 44% of individuals categorized as of low/moderate CVR based on SCORE2/2-OP were re-classified into a higher CVR category based on carotid ultrasound. The agreement between the 2 methods (ultrasound versus algorithms) in categorizing low/moderate and high CVR was 67% (kappa 0.35, P<0.001) and 61% (kappa 0.23, P<0.001), respectively. Among 204 participants categorized as of high/very high CVR according to carotid ultrasound, only 15 (7%) had LDL-cholesterol levels <70 mg/dl. Conclusions: These findings suggest that carotid ultrasonography using a portable handheld device may significantly contribute to assess CVR more accurately in primary care, especially in individuals classified as of low/moderate CVR using reference algorithms.

VOXEL Video Streaming Over Wireless Networks

High-density point clouds expressing attractive 3D images are attracting attention. These gigantic media require large bandwidth allocations, making them problematic to stream to resource-constrained hand-held devices. This paper proposes a method for point cloud compression and streaming of large point clouds using a web server. Storing large point cloud videos on a web server allows users to publish data sets without using additional applications or sending large amounts of data ahead of time. HTTP/2 improves transfer efficiency by compressing headers into binary format and reduces latency by sending many multiplexed requests using a single TCP session. The large size of the point cloud data and the current limitations of wireless channels demand point cloud compression methods. MATLAB is used for the purpose of analysis, at results show an average compression ratio of 30:1. Our proposed system achieves lower average latency between successive frames resulting in an increased frame rate to 72.46 fps when streaming 4M points, and 82.51 fps in the case of streaming 800K points compared to much lower rates in conventional work.

Technology-Integrated Instructions and Basic Mathematics Skills Acquisition in Public Secondary Schools in Rwanda: A Case of Nyagatare District

This research investigated the effects of technology-integrated instructions on basic mathematics skills in Rwandan secondary education. The study aimed to assess the types of technology-integrated instructional methods used for acquiring basic math skills in Rwandan public secondary schools, assess the level of mathematics skills and performance in these schools, and determine the relationship between technology-integrated teaching and the acquisition of basic math skills. Schools were selected based on their location and type. Theory used in this research project was cognitive load theory and constructivism theory. The target population included 214 teachers, 422 students, and 80 head teachers, total of 716 respondents, with a sample size of 257 participants. Data was gathered using questionnaires, interviews, and observation, employing purposive, stratified, and simple random sampling methods. Both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis methods were used. Qualitative data were analysed through content analysis, while quantitative data were presented using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (correlational and regression analysis) with IBM SPSS Version 21.0. Findings for the first objective showed that 85.7% of respondents strongly agreed on the use of computer algebra systems, 93.5% strongly agreed on blended learning and online education, 87.0% strongly agreed on the use of mobile and handheld devices, and 63.6% strongly agreed on software applications for mathematics calculations as methods influencing the acquisition of basic math skills. Regarding the second objective, 87.0% of teachers strongly agreed that verbal counting ability indicates math skill levels, 93.5% agreed that identifying more and less of a quantity shows math skills, 85.7% agreed on problem-solving skills as an indicator, 66.2% on recognizing numerals, and 77.9% on understanding size, shape, and patterns as indicators of math skills and performance. The study revealed a strong positive relationship between skills such as identifying quantities, verbal counting, problem-solving, and blended learning or online education. Problem-solving skills were also positively linked with computer algebra systems and blended learning. The significance of verbal counting was confirmed, as indicated by a p-value of less than 0.05. The study recommends using digital tools like calculators and graphing software to improve understanding of mathematical concepts. Real-world examples and multimedia can foster problem-solving abilities, while group work can enhance teamwork and communication skills. Educational software and online platforms provide personalized learning, enabling students to learn at their own pace and receive specific support.

Increasing the reach: optimizing screening for atrial fibrillation-the STROKESTOP III study.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of cardiac arrythmia and is an important risk factor for ischaemic stroke. Many cases of AF remain undiagnosed due to its paroxysmal, intermittent, and often asymptomatic nature. Early detection of AF through screening and initiation of treatment with oral anticoagulants can prevent stroke, increase life expectancy, and decrease the cost of healthcare for the society. However, participation has been low in previous AF screening studies employing population screening. The aim of this study is to determine whether opportunistic screening is a superior method to increase participation in comparison to population screening. We hypothesize that opportunistic screening will significantly increase participation. In our study, STROKESTOP III, a randomized prospective cohort study, we compare two different methods of AF screening in high-risk individuals: population screening vs. opportunistic screening. Sixteen different primary clinics in Värmland, Sweden, serving 75-76-year-old individuals (n = 2954), will be randomized to either population screening or opportunistic screening. The individuals will be instructed to record electrocardiogram (ECG) for 30 s, 3 times daily for 2 weeks, using a handheld one-lead ECG device. Patients with detected AF will be referred to their primary healthcare physician and offered treatment. The main objective of the study is to determine the rate of participation in opportunistic screening in comparison to population screening. The STROKESTOP III study will provide valuable information on which screening method to use for improved participation in atrial fibrillation screening.

An artificial intelligence handheld sensor for direct reading of nickel ion and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid in food samples using ratiometric fluorescence cellulose paper microfluidic chip

User-friendly in-field sensing protocol is crucial for the effective tracing of intended analytes under less-developed countries or resources-limited environments. Nevertheless, existing sensing strategies require professional technicians and expensive laboratory-based instrumentations, which are not capable for point-of-care on-site analyses. To address this issue, artificial intelligence handheld sensor has been designed for direct reading of Ni2+ and EDTA in food samples. The sensing platform incorporates smartphone with machine learning-driven application, 3D-printed handheld device, and cellulose paper microfluidic chip stained with ratiometric red-green-emission carbon dots (CDs). Intriguingly, Ni2+ introduction makes green fluorescent (FL) of CDs glow but red FL fade because of the coordination of Ni2+ with CDs verified by density functional theory (DFT), concurrently manifesting continuous FL colour transition from red to green. Subsequent addition of EDTA renders FL of CDs-Ni2+ recover owing to the capture of Ni2+ from CDs by EDTA based on strong chelation effect of EDTA on Ni2+ confirmed via DFT, accompanying with a noticeable colour returning from green to red. Inspired by above FL phenomena, CDs-based cellulose paper microfluidic chips are first fabricated to facilitate point-of-care testing of Ni2+ and EDTA. Designed fully-automatic handheld sensor is utilized to directly output Ni2+ and EDTA concentration in water, milk, spinach, bread, and shampoo based on wide linear ranges of 0–48 μM and 0–96 μM, and low limits of detection of 0.274 μM and 0.624 μM, respectively. The proposed protocol allows for speedy straightforward on-site determination of target analytes, which will trigger the development of automated and intelligent sensors in near future.

APPROACH e-PROM system: a user-centered development and evaluation of an electronic patient-reported outcomes measurement system for management of coronary artery disease

BackgroundCoronary artery disease (CAD) confers increased risks of premature mortality, non-fatal morbidity, and significant impairment in functional status and health-related quality of life. Routine administration of electronic patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and its real time delivery to care providers is known to have the potential to inform routine cardiac care and to improve quality of care and patient outcomes. This study describes a user-centered development and evaluation of the Alberta Provincial Project for Outcomes Assessment (APPROACH) electronic Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement (e-PROM) system. This e-PROM system is an electronic system for the administration of PROMs to patients with CAD and the delivery of the summarized information to their care providers to facilitate patient-physician communication and shared decision-making. This electronic platform was designed to be accessible via web-based and hand-held devices. Heuristic and user acceptance evaluation were conducted with patients and attending care providers.ResultsThe APPROACH e-PROM system was co-developed with patients and care providers, research investigators, informaticians and information technology experts. Five PROMs were selected for inclusion in the online platform after consultations with patient partners, care providers, and PROMs experts: the Seattle Angina Questionnaire, Patient Health Questionnaire, EuroQOL, and Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey, and Self-Care of Coronary Heart Disease Inventory. The heuristic evaluation was completed by four design experts who examined the usability of the prototype interfaces. User acceptance testing was completed with 13 patients and 10 cardiologists who evaluated prototype user interfaces of the e-PROM system.ConclusionBoth patients and physicians found the APPROACH e-PROM system to be easy to use, understandable, and acceptable. The APPROACH e-PROM system provides a user-informed electronic platform designed to incorporate PROMs into the delivery of individualized cardiac care for persons with CAD.

“Visualization matters” – stereoscopic visualization of 3D graphic neuroanatomic models through AnaVu enhances basic recall and radiologic anatomy learning when compared with monoscopy

BackgroundThe authors had previously developed AnaVu, a low-resource 3D visualization tool for stereoscopic/monoscopic projection of 3D models generated from pre-segmented MRI neuroimaging data. However, its utility in neuroanatomical education compared to conventional methods (specifically whether the stereoscopic or monoscopic mode is more effective) is still unclear.MethodsA three-limb randomized controlled trial was designed. A sample (n = 152) from the 2022 cohort of MBBS students at Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram (GMCT), was randomly selected from those who gave informed consent. After a one-hour introductory lecture on brainstem anatomy and a dissection session, students were randomized to three groups (S – Stereo; M – Mono and C – Control). S was given a 20-min demonstration on the brainstem lesson module in AnaVu in stereoscopic mode. M was given the same demonstration, but in monoscopic mode. The C group was taught using white-board drawn diagrams. Pre-intervention and post-intervention tests for four domains (basic recall, analytical, radiological anatomy and diagram-based questions) were conducted before and after the intervention. Cognitive loads were measured using a pre-validated tool. The groups were then swapped -S→ M, M →S and C→S, and they were asked to compare the modes.ResultsFor basic recall questions, there was a statistically significant increase in the pre/post-intervention score difference of the S group when compared to the M group [p = 0.03; post hoc analysis, Bonferroni corrections applied] and the C group [p = 0.001; ANOVA test; post hoc analysis, Bonferroni corrections applied]. For radiological anatomy questions, the difference was significantly higher for S compared to C [p < 0.001; ANOVA test; post hoc analysis, Bonferroni corrections applied]. Cognitive load scores showed increased mean germane load for S (33.28 ± 5.35) and M (32.80 ± 7.91) compared with C (28.18 ± 8.17). Subjective feedbacks showed general advantage for S and M compared to C. Out of the S and M swap cohorts, 79/102 preferred S, 13/102 preferred M, and 6/102 preferred both.ConclusionsAnaVu tool seems to be effective for learning neuroanatomy. The specific advantage seen when taught with stereoscopy in basic recall and radiological anatomy learning shows the importance of how visualization mode influences neuroanatomy learning. Since both S and M are preferred in subjective feedbacks, these results have implications in choosing methods (stereoscopic – needs 3D projectors; monoscopic – needs web based or hand-held devices) to scale AnaVu for anatomy teaching in medical colleges in India. Since stereoscopic projection is technically novel and cost considerations are slightly higher compared to monoscopic projection, the specific advantages and disadvantages of each are relevant in the Indian medical education scenario.

Freshness in Salmon by Hand-Held Devices: Methods in Feature Selection and Data Fusion for Spectroscopy

Freshness in Salmon by Hand-Held Devices: Methods in Feature Selection and Data Fusion for Spectroscopy

Bedside percutaneous cryoneurolysis technique for management of acute rib fracture pain in adult trauma patients

BackgroundAcute pain due to rib fractures causes significant in-hospital morbidity and impacts patients’ quality of life after discharge. Intraoperative transthoracic cryoneurolysis of the intercostal nerves can improve postoperative pain; however,...

A Study of Model Iterations of Fitts’ Law and Its Application to Human–Computer Interactions

Fitts’ law, a predictive model for motor task completion time, is widely utilized in human–computer interaction (HCI) research. While its formulas in two dimensions have achieved consensus over the decades, research diverges on its application in three dimensions. This paper synthesizes practical applications across touchscreens, virtual reality (VR), pedals, handheld devices, etc., with a specific emphasis on enhancing interaction experiences for vulnerable populations. This review studies Fitts’ law’s applicability in diverse interaction scenarios, highlighting design considerations for touchscreens and handheld/foot-held devices. This article underscores the need for future research to explore three-dimensional applications and consider user age, with potential expansions into medical and sports domains. This systematic review aims to empower designers in crafting more ergonomic products and improving HCI experiences.

Prevalence and patterns of helmet use among motorized two-wheelers: findings from a large observational study in an Indian metropolis

ABSTRACT: Motorized two-wheeler users account for 45% of road fatalities in 2021 in India. Correct helmet use decreases the risk of fatalities, but information about the prevalence of correct helmet use is limited in the Indian context. This study aims to assess the prevalence of helmet use and factors associated with correct helmet use among motorized two-wheeler users in Bengaluru city, India. This observational cross-sectional assessment was conducted in a random-representative sample of 98021 motorized two-wheelers sampled from 15 intersections. Helmet use and other information were collected by trained Field Data Collectors via hand-held tablet devices and the KoBo collect application, following a globally used checklist. The prevalence of helmet use (all types) was 88% among riders and pillion together and 92.4% among riders. However, the prevalence of correct helmet use is 38% among riders, and non-standard helmet use is 27%. This study reveals a correct helmet use gap in Bengaluru city. The study recommends the need to shift enforcement, messaging, and intervention focus towards correct helmet use and the implementation of routine population-based surveillance for helmet use in the city.

Light-Switch Electrochemiluminescence-Driven microfluidic sensor for rapid and sensitive detection of Mpox virus

Rapid, real-time, and accurate detection of pathogenic nucleic acids is crucial for the control and treatment of Mpox virus infection; however, classical detection methods are limited by time-consuming amplification steps, cumbersome equipment, and the requirement for professional operators. Herein, we developed an electrochemiluminescence (ECL)-driven microfluidic detection chip based on a light-switch molecule, which when coupled with rapid recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) enabled the detection of Mpox within 30 min. [Ru(phen)2dppz]2+ was used as the ECL light-switch molecule owing to its significant ECL signal enhancement property when intercalated into double-stranded RPA products. The microfluidic chip included two independent liquid storage tanks preloaded with an RPA reagent mixture and [Ru(phen)2dppz]2+, which were mixed via centrifugation to produce ECL signals. The developed sensing platform effectively detected Mpox virus with high sensitivity, and the limit of detection was as low as 10 copies/µL. Moreover, it showed 100 % sensitivity and 100 % specificity when validated against the quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay using clinical samples from the pustules, throat, urine, blood, saliva, and anus of Mpox-positive patients. Combined with a hand-held detection device, this platform can facilitate the early diagnosis of Mpox cases in point-of-care testing without trained personnel and specialized equipment.

RBFsim – A tool for early planning stage of riverbank filtration systems

Riverbank filtration (RBF) is increasingly being considered an effective method to support the management of water supply and the management of groundwater-river water exchange. Literature, however, provides very limited methods for the initial evaluation of the RBF system. Specifically, initial evaluations need to rely on limited data, be cost-effective, and provide sufficient useful output. The paper provides the development of a tool called RBFsim, designed for the early assessment of flow hydraulics in a riverbank filtration (RBF) scheme during site selection and optimization of well operation. The developed tool allows simplified computation (based on the Analytical Element Method or AEM) of the flow field for single and multiple wells in a 2D homogeneous and isotropic aquifer with uniform flow. The tool superimposes analytical solutions for key RBF quantities such as residence time (the time required for river water to reach the well) and the proportions of water (contributed by the river and groundwater) in the well discharge. These solutions are superimposed on the developed flow field. Additionally, the tool can be used to evaluate the impact of riverbed clogging on the operation of the RBF system. The simplified computation due to AEM and limited data requirements allows the tool to be used in handheld (smartphones) or desktop devices with or without internet connection. RBFsim results are verified by comparing them with results from MODFLOW and MODPATH simulations, which are based on entirely different (finite difference) computational schemes. The obtained results from both these models match within the error margin of less than 5%. Further, the practicality and applicability of RBFsim are illustrated using synthetic and field data. While the tool provides a matching river water contribution ratio with field data, it demonstrates the best-fit residence times primarily for higher well discharge rates. These limitations are attributed to complexities observed in the field, such as a heterogeneous aquifer and nonuniform flow. Overall, the developed tool simplifies the complex computations required, particularly for assessing the feasibility and risk of RBF schemes. The developed tool’s methods and code are open-sourced (licensed under CC-BY 4.0), which promotes personalized modifications and extensions.

Assessing ventilation through ambient carbon dioxide concentrations across multiple healthcare levels in Ghana.

Infection prevention and control (IPC) measures safeguard primary healthcare systems, especially as the infectious disease landscape evolves due to climate and environmental change, increased global mobility, and vaccine hesitancy and inequity, which can introduce unexpected pathogens. This study explores the importance of an "always-on," low-cost IPC approach, focusing on the role of natural ventilation in health facilities, particularly in low-resource settings. Ambient carbon dioxide (CO2) levels are increasingly used as a measure of ventilation effectiveness allowing for spot checks and targeted ventilation improvements. Data were collected through purposive sampling in Northern Ghana over a three-month period. Levels of CO2 ppm (parts per million) were measured by a handheld device in various healthcare settings, including Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) facilities, municipal and teaching hospitals, and community settings to assess ventilation effectiveness. Analyses compared CO2 readings in community and hospital settings as well as in those settings with and without natural ventilation. A total of 40 facilities were evaluated in this study; 90% were healthcare facilities and 75% had natural ventilation (with an open window, door or wall). Facilities that relied on natural ventilation were mostly community health centers (60% vs 0%) and more commonly had patients present (83% vs 40%) compared with facilities without natural ventilation. Facilities with natural ventilation had significantly lower CO2 concentrations (CO2 ppm: 663 vs 1378, p = 0.0043) and were more likely to meet international thresholds of CO2 < 800 ppm (87% vs 10%, p = <0.0001) and CO2 < 1000 ppm (97% vs 20%, p = <0.0001). The adjusted odds ratio of low CO2 in the natural facilities compared with non-natural were: odds ratios, OR (95% CI): 21.7 (1.89, 247) for CO2 < 800 ppm, and 16.8 (1.55, 183) for CO2 < 1000 ppm. Natural ventilation in these facilities was consistently significantly associated with higher likelihood of low CO2 concentrations. Improved ventilation represents one cost-effective layer of IPC. This study highlights the continuing role natural ventilation can play in health facility design in community health care clinics. Most health facilities met standard CO2 thresholds, particularly in community health facilities. Further research is needed to optimize the use of natural ventilation. The use of a handheld devices to track a simple metric, CO2 levels, could improve appreciation of ventilation among healthcare workers and public health professionals and allow for them to target improvements. This study highlights potential lessons in the built environment of community primary health facilities as a blueprint for low-cost, integrated multi-layer IPC measures to mitigate respiratory illness and anticipate future outbreaks.

Deep Learning for Point-of-Care Ultrasound Image Quality Enhancement: A Review

The popularity of handheld devices for point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has increased in recent years due to their portability and cost-effectiveness. However, POCUS has the drawback of lower imaging quality compared to conventional ultrasound because of hardware limitations. Improving the quality of POCUS through post-image processing would therefore be beneficial, with deep learning approaches showing promise in this regard. This review investigates the state-of-the-art progress of image enhancement using deep learning suitable for POCUS applications. A systematic search was conducted from January 2024 to February 2024 on PubMed and Scopus. From the 457 articles that were found, the full text was retrieved for 69 articles. From this selection, 15 articles were identified addressing multiple quality enhancement aspects. A disparity in the baseline performance of the low-quality input images was seen across these studies, ranging between 8.65 and 29.24 dB for the Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) and between 0.03 an 0.71 for the Structural Similarity Index Measure (SSIM). In six studies, where both the PSNR and the SSIM metrics were reported for the baseline and the generated images, mean differences of 6.60 (SD ± 2.99) and 0.28 (SD ± 0.15) were observed for the PSNR and SSIM, respectively. The reported performance outcomes demonstrate the potential of deep learning-based image enhancement for POCUS. However, variability in the extent of the performance gain across datasets and articles was notable, and the heterogeneity across articles makes quantifying the exact improvements challenging.

(Invited) Smartphone-Based Nanosensors for Environmental, Food Safety, and Health Monitoring

: Biosensors are a modern engineering marvel with widespread applications across diverse areas, including healthcare, environmental monitoring, microbiology, and food safety and security. The integration of nanotechnology with biosensor technology has led to novel sensing mechanisms, significantly enhancing performance and sensing capabilities beyond the constraints of traditional methods. In our laboratory, several nanotechnology-enabled biosensors have been developed to overcome the limitations of current bioanalytical methods, particularly in terms of sensitivity, throughput, ease-of-use, and miniaturization. We have synthesized various innovative nanomaterials, such as protein cages, single-atom nanozymes, and mesoporous bimetal nanoparticles. These materials have been crucial in the fabrication of 3D printed nano-immunosensors, which are effective in detecting pesticides, food pathogens, and exposure biomarkers.My research specifically focuses on the development of nanotechnology-enhanced biosensors that leverage these novel nanomaterials. This endeavor aims to revolutionize biosensor fabrication, with a particular emphasis on creating new, handheld devices. These devices are designed for rapid, on-site detection of molecules, offering immense potential for point-of-care diagnostics. The integration of these biosensors with smartphone technology has further opened avenues for real-time data analysis and sharing, making them invaluable tools for environmental, food safety, and health monitoring. This talk will delve into the specifics of these developments, highlighting the innovative approaches and potential impacts of smartphone-based nanosensors in various sectors.

Novel treatment of infectious keratitis in canine corneas using ultraviolet C (UV-C) light.

To investigate the therapeutic effect of 275 nm wavelength ultraviolet C (UV-C) light for treatment of bacterial keratitis in canine corneas using an affordable, broadly available modified handheld device. UV-C therapy (UVCT) was evaluated in two experiments: invitro using triplicates of three bacterial genera (Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Pseudomonas spp., and a mix of all species) where the UVCT was performed at a distance of 10, 15, and 20 mm with 1 or 2 doses (4 h apart) for 5, 15, or 30 s; exvivo model where healthy canine corneal buttons were inoculated superficially and deep (330 μm) with the same bacterial isolates and treated at a 10 mm distance for 15 s with one dose of 22.5 mJ/cm2. Fluorescent marker (STYO9-PI) was used to label (green = live bacteria, red = dead bacteria), and confocal microscopy was used to image the bacteria. In vitro results showed all plates treated with UVCT had 100% bactericidal effect for all isolates with single dose of 15 s at 10 mm distance or two doses, 4 h apart at 15 mm and was ineffective with single dose at 15-20 mm. The exvivo results confirmed a significant decrease in bacterial load for all isolates on samples inoculated superficially but were inconclusive for intrastromal ones. UVCT confirmed the therapeutic potential for all tested isolates, for both invitro and exvivo experiments using a single exposure of 15 s. While safety studies are underway, clinical trials are warranted.