Special Equipment Research Articles

Experiential learning through virtual reality by-proxy

Virtual reality (VR) is increasingly being used as a teaching and learning tool, however scaling this technology is difficult due to technological and cost considerations. An alternative approach that helps to address these problems is VR-by-proxy, where teaching takes place within a VR environment that is controlled by one lecturer and broadcast to students online. This allows the content to be accessed without specialist equipment while still offering an immersive and interactive experience. Taking advantage of the enforced move to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, this study evaluates the implementation of a novel VR-by-proxy disease diagnostic laboratory VR simulation within an undergraduate life sciences course in a higher education setting. Student participants were randomly allocated into two groups: the test group, who took part in a VR-by-proxy lesson; and a control group, who worked with interactive online lab manual material. We assessed improvement in learning and enjoyment through questionnaires before and after these tasks and collected qualitative data on student attitudes towards VR through focus groups. Our results indicate that although there is no observable difference in learning outcomes between the two groups, students in the test group reported an improved learning experience, confidence and enjoyment of learning. In our focus groups, confidence was understood in two ways by participants: firstly, as ‘understanding’ of the various steps involved in conducting a quantitative polymerase chain reaction experiment and secondly as a more general ‘familiarity’ with the laboratory setting. This study adds to the growing body of research into the effectiveness of VR for learning and teaching, highlighting that VR-by-proxy may provide many of the same benefits.

High-Resistance Grounding Fault Location in High-Voltage Direct Current Transmission Systems Based on Deep Residual Shrinkage Network

Due to the precision limitations of traditional fault location methods in identifying grounding faults in High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission systems and considering the high occurrence probability of high-resistance grounding faults in practical engineering scenarios coupled with the sampling accuracy constraints of actual equipment, this article introduces a novel approach for high-resistance grounding fault location in HVDC transmission lines. This method integrates Variational Mode Decomposition (VMD) and Deep Residual Shrinkage Network (DRSN). Initially, VMD is employed to decompose double-ended high-resistance grounding fault signals, extracting the corresponding Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMF). These IMF signals are then preprocessed to construct the input data for the DRSN model. Upon training, the model outputs the precise fault location. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed method, a ±800 kV bipolar HVDC transmission system model is established using PSCAD/EMTDC version 4.6.2 software for simulating high-resistance grounding faults. The sampling accuracy of the model’s output signals is set to 10 kHz, aligning closely with actual engineering equipment specifications. Comprehensive simulation experiments and anti-interference analyses are conducted on the DRSN model. The results demonstrate that the fault location method based on the DRSN exhibits high accuracy in locating high-resistance grounding faults, with a maximum error of less than 1.5 km, even when considering factors such as engineering sampling frequency, fault types, and signal noise.

Advanced Approaches to Material Processing in FFF 3D Printing: Integration of AR-Guided Maintenance for Optimized Manufacturing

The field of additive manufacturing increasingly demands innovative solutions to optimize material processing, improve equipment efficiency, and address maintenance challenges in high-utilization environments. This study investigates the operation and management of an FFF 3D printing production line comprising eight remotely controlled printers. The system supports custom manufacturing and educational activities, focusing on processing a range of thermoplastics and composite materials. A key contribution of this work lies in addressing the impact of frequent hardware servicing caused by shared use among users. Augmented reality (AR)-guided assembly and disassembly workflows were developed to ensure uninterrupted operations. These workflows are accessible via smart devices and provide step-by-step guidance tailored to specific material and equipment requirements. The research evaluates the effectiveness of AR-enhanced maintenance in minimizing downtime, extending equipment lifespans, and ensuring consistent material performance during manufacturing processes. Furthermore, it explores the role of AR in maintaining the mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties of processed materials, ensuring high-quality outputs across diverse applications. This paper highlights the integration of advanced material processing methodologies with emerging technologies like AR, aligning with the focus on enhancing manufacturing schemes. The findings contribute to improving process efficiency and adaptability in additive manufacturing, offering insights into scalable solutions for remote-controlled and multi-user production systems.

An Alternative Method for the Selective Synthesis of Ortho-nitro Anilines Using Bismuth Nitrate Pentahydrate.

Nitroaromatic compounds are important scaffolds used for the syn-thesis of a variety of compounds, such as explosives, herbicides, dyes, perfumes and phar-maceuticals. Bismuth nitrate pentahydrate is a widely used reagent in organic synthesis; how-ever, its utility as a nitrating agent for anilines is underexplored. The aim of this work is to propose and find the proper reaction conditions of an alternative nitrating agent constituted by a mixture of bismuth nitrate / acetic anhydride in DCM with a series of substituted anilines under mild reflux. Several anilines having both activating and deactivating substituents in the ortho, meta and para positions were the substrate for the nitration reaction. Experimental conditions were performed in "one-pot" conditions before product purification. Bi(NO3)3•5H2O demonstrated to be effective and somehow regioselective when it came to the nitration of anilines in the ortho position. Although other products were also identified under these conditions, in most cases, the ortho derivative was the major or even the only product obtained with moderate to high yields in the range of 50% - 96%. Bi(NO3)3•5H2O is an efficient and safe nitrating agent since the use of concen-trated and corrosive acids like sulfuric and nitric is avoided; furthermore, bismuth nitrate is low-priced and no special care nor equipment is required.

Three-Objects-Three-Places Episodic Memory Test to Screen Mild Cognitive Impairment and Mild Dementia: Validation in a Memory Clinic Population.

The Three-Objects-Three-Places (3O3P) test is a 5-minscreen for episodic memory impairment due to Alzheimer's disease, known for its briefness and easy administration, culture- and language-free nature, and the absence of specific equipment. However, no studies have validated its potential in memory clinic cohorts. The aim of this study was to test its convergent, discriminant, and known-group validities and to define thresholds for its clinical use. We included 2062 cognitively unimpaired (CU), mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia patients from the Geneva Memory Center cohort who underwent the 3O3P test in the context of clinical practice. Convergent and discriminant validities were assessed using an exploratory factor analysis. The known-group validity was assessed in CU vs. MCI and dementia using the area under the curve (AUC). 3O3P test scores vs. amyloid and tau positivity, neurodegeneration, and cognition (ATNC) were assessed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. The 3O3P test cut-offs were calculated using sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy. Mean age was 72 years (SD = 11), 60% were female, mean education was 13 years (SD = 4), and mean MMSE was 25 (SD = 5). The 3O3P and Delayed Total Recall tests loaded strongly on the "memory" factor and weakly on "non-memory" factors. The 3O3P test can discriminate CU vs. MCI (AUC = 0.71) and dementia (AUC = 0.92). Higher 3O3P scores were associated with lower prevalence of ATNC (p < 0.001). A 3O3P value of 7 can detect MCI and dementia patients. The 3O3P test has demonstrated good convergent, discriminant, and known-group validity in a large memory clinic population.

Sustainable vs. Conventional Cleaning in Healthcare: Microbiological and Life Cycle Insights

This study investigates the environmental and microbiological effectiveness of two cleaning protocols—EVA (Ecological Visible Approach) and a traditional cleaning protocol—implemented in a healthcare setting. The cleaning procedures were conducted using specific equipment tailored to each protocol, with the EVA Protocol emphasizing sustainable practices. Microbiological evaluations assessed the effectiveness of each protocol in reducing microbial presence on various surfaces. The results demonstrated that the EVA Protocol not only met but often exceeded the microbiological standards achieved by the traditional protocol while significantly reducing the environmental footprint. The comparative Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) highlighted the EVA Protocol’s ability to lower CO2 emissions by 31.5% compared to the traditional protocol. This study underscores the potential benefits of adopting sustainable cleaning practices in healthcare settings, contributing to both environmental preservation and effective infection control.

Da prática para a teoria e a capacitação para evacuação aeromédica de vítimas de desastres envolvendo agentes químicos, biológicos, radiológicos e nucleares

The Brazilian Air Force carries out aeromedical evacuation (EVAM) of victims of disasters involving chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear agents - CBRN). Objective: to carry out a qualitative analysis on training to work in EVAM that involves CBRN agents in the perception of health professionals with real experiences. Method: qualitative, exploratory and descriptive research, carried out through semi-structured interviews. Results: From the sample studied, it was found that the experiences contributed to the review of training to act in new situations. Preparation for action was considered very good in most evaluations, requiring training with specific equipment and PPE. Conclusion: Updating training is important for team safety and effective care. Implications for health and nursing: the role of the nurse researcher/instructor stood out due to the importance of using research to plan the training and preparation of EVAM in crisis situations, which is a new area of care.

Benzo[1,2-b:6,5-b']dithiophene-4,5-diamine: A New Fluorescent Probe for the High-Sensitivity and Real-Time Visual Monitoring of Phosgene.

The detection of highly toxic chemicals such as phosgene is crucial for addressing the severe threats to human health and public safety posed by terrorist attacks and industrial mishaps. However, timely and precise monitoring of phosgene at a low cost remains a significant challenge. This work is the first to report a novel fluorescent system based on the Intramolecular Charge Transfer (ICT) effect, which can rapidly detect phosgene in both solution and gas phases with high sensitivity by integrating a benzo[1,2-b:6,5-b']dithiophene-4,5-diamine (BDTA) probe. Among existing detecting methods, this fluorescent system stands out as it can respond to phosgene within a mere 30 s and has a detection limit as low as 0.16 μM in solution. Furthermore, the sensing mechanism was rigorously validated through high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. As a result, this fluorescent probing system for phosgene can be effectively adapted for real-time, high-sensitivity sensing and used as a test strip for visual monitoring without the need for specific equipment, which will also provide a new strategy for the fluorescent detection of other toxic materials.

Effectiveness of Perioperative Finger Sensory Rehabilitation in Patients Undergoing Fingertip Amputation and Reimplantation: A Retrospective Study.

Finger reimplantation is an effective method for the treatment of amputated fingertips. However, there are several shortcomings in traditional postoperative rehabilitation programs, which may affect a patient's functional recovery after surgery. Finger sensory rehabilitation is a comprehensive program that helps patients restore sensory and motor function to their fingers through the use of specific training methods and equipment. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the effect of finger sensory rehabilitation on a group of patients who had undergone fingertip amputation and reimplantation. The medical records of 106 patients having undergone fingertip amputation and reimplantation from January 2022 to January 2024 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were classified into experimental group (n = 52, receiving conventional rehabilitation training + finger sensory rehabilitation training) and the control group (n = 54, receiving only conventional rehabilitation training). Patients in both groups participated in a 20-week rehabilitation training, and the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test was used to evaluate the finger touch pressure sensation after completing the rehabilitation training in both groups, and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, Generic Quality of Life Inventory-74 (GQOLI-74) score to evaluate their pain sensation and quality of life on the 2nd postoperative day and at the end of rehabilitation training. After completing rehabilitation, a specialized method for assessing the patient's tactile sensory deficits was used, showing that the number of cases with light tactile hypoesthesia to single-fiber sensation in the reimplanted fingertips was higher in the experimental group than in the control group (p < 0.01), while there was no significant difference in the number of cases of protective hypoesthesia between the two groups (p > 0.05), the number of cases of protective sensory loss was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in the pain scores and comfort scores between the two groups before management (p > 0.05). However, the pain level of the two groups after management was significantly lower than that before management (p < 0.01), whereas the post-management comfort scores of both groups were significantly higher than that before management (p < 0.001). The experimental group's degree of improvement was significantly higher than that of the control group (p < 0.001). The pre-management GQOLI-74 scores were not significantly different between the groups (p > 0.05), whereas after management, the experimental group outperformed the control group in all dimensions of the scores, except in thinking ability (p < 0.01). Although not statistically significant (p > 0.05), the total perioperative complication rate of the experimental group was lower than that of the control group. The implementation of finger sensory rehabilitation training is effective for restoring tactile function, reducing pain levels, and improving quality of life among patients who had undergone fingertip amputation and reimplantation. This finding can inform the development and selection of subsequent rehabilitation programs.

Development and Application of a Cost–Effective Analytical Method for Hydrofluorocarbons Using Preconcentrator–Gas Chromatograph–Mass Spectrometer

The expansion of atmospheric observation networks for hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are closely related to climate change and contribute to global warming, significantly impacts our society and daily life. Their emissions are estimated to increase in the future, which is a major challenge. Observations of HFCs globally were performed using expensive GHG–specific equipment installed at AGAGE and other sites, but many research institutions find it difficult to install such equipment. Therefore, we successfully developed a measurement method for six components of HFCs (HFC–23, HFC–32, HFC–125, HFC–134a, HFC–143a, and HFC–152a) with high atmospheric concentrations in various parts of the world by optimizing measurement parameters such as the sample transfer volume and rate, module cooling temperatures, the injection time, the GC oven temperature program, and the monitored ions of a commercially available preconcentrator–GC–MS. Because this developed measurement method is cost–effective and simpler to operate than those of GHG–specific equipment, it is expected to provide an opportunity for many research institutes to measure HFCs. Furthermore, in addition to HFCs, we confirmed that simultaneous measurements can be performed for 97 volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including hazardous components. This research can contribute to the observation of HFCs in countries and regions where the actual status of emissions is unclear or where no or few atmospheric observations were conducted. The results of those observations can be used to formulate more detailed global warming countermeasures.

Development of a new method using dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction with hydrophobic natural deep eutectic solvent for the analysis of multiclass emerging contaminants in surface water by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.

A new analytical method was developed for the determination of 14 multiclass emerging organic contaminants in surface waters using LC-MS, and Dispersive Liquid-Liquid Microextraction (DLLME) for extraction. Different Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADESs) composed of terpenes and organic acids were tested as extraction solvents and characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Hydrogen Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (1H-NMR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), density, and viscosity, eliminating the need to use traditional chlorinated solvents. NADES produced with butyric acid and thymol showed the best results and was selected for application for the first time in the extraction of emerging organic contaminants of different classes in water samples. Vortex was used as the dispersion mode, eliminating the use of the dispersion solvent. Chromatographic conditions and sample preparation were optimized using multivariate experimental designs. The optimized chromatographic conditions included the column oven temperature, mobile phase modifiers, and stationary phase type. The optimized conditions for sample preparation included the extraction temperature and pH, salting out effect, and extraction solvent volume. The analytical performance was evaluated through repeatability and intermediate precision tests, with RSD values below 20%, and recoveries between 70 and 120%. The coefficient of determination was greater than 0.98 for all analytes. LOQs varied between 1.5 and 35 μg L-1. DLLME is a simple technique, it does not require expensive and specific equipment. Furthermore, replacing traditional chlorinated solvents with NADES makes the procedure more environmentally friendly. The method presented here can be applied to a wide range of analytes for the analysis of fresh, brackish, and salt waters. Up to the present moment, this is the first study using NADES based thymol and butyric acid for the determination of multiclass emerging contaminants in surface waters samples.

Sample-to-answer microfluidic device towards the point-of-need detection of Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin genes in ruminant milk.

Milk is commonly screened both for indicators of animal disease and health, but also for foodborne hazards. Included in these analyses is the detection of Staphylococcus aureus, that can produce an enterotoxin, causing staphylococcal food poisoning (SFP), which often leads to sudden onset of significant gastrointestinal symptoms in humans. Epidemiological data on SFP are limited, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Many conventional assays for the detection of staphylococcal enterotoxins rely on the detection of the genes coding for them, either directly in food samples or after bacterial culture. Currently, many of the nucleic acid-based methods used require specific expertise and equipment, whilst bacterial culture takes 24-48 hours; both are contributory factors that limit efforts either during food safety emergencies or routine screening. Here we present the development of a "sample-to-answer" isothermal nucleic acid loop-mediated amplification (LAMP) assay in a microfluidic device for the detection of Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin genes in ruminant milk. A multiplex LAMP assay targeting two of the most prevalent S. aureus enterotoxin-encoding genes (A and B) was integrated into a microfluidic device combining simple 1 : 10 dilution for sample preparation and a lateral flow assay for easy readout. We achieved a limit of detection of 104 colony forming units per ml in spiked cow and goat milk samples, an order of magnitude more sensitive than the European recommendation for the maximum allowable presence of coagulase-positive staphylococci in raw milk. The assay showed no cross-reactivity in detecting other tested non-enterotoxigenic S. aureus strains or associated foodborne pathogens. The test integrated the simplicity of use of microfluidic devices with the sensitivity, specificity and rapidity of a nucleic acid-based assay, and a simple lateral flow readout to provide an appropriate device to ensure the safety of milk for human consumption. To illustrate its potential for point-of-need practical applications, the test was performed in agricultural settings in rural Turkey in a limited feasibility exercise.

Human motor performance assessment with lower limb exoskeletons as a potential strategy to support healthy aging—a perspective article

With increasing age, motor performance declines. This decline is associated with less favorable health outcomes such as impaired activities of daily living, reduced quality of life, or increased mortality. Through regular assessment of motor performance, changes over time can be monitored, and targeted therapeutic programs and interventions may be informed. This can ensure better individualization of any intervention approach (e.g. by considering the current motor performance status of a person) and thus potentially increase its effectiveness with regard to maintaining current performance status or delaying further decline. However, in older adults, motor performance assessment is time consuming and requires experienced examiners and specific equipment, amongst others. This is particularly not feasible in care facility/nursing home settings. Wearable robotic devices, such as exoskeletons, have the potential of being used to assess motor performance and provide assistance during physical activities and exercise training for older adults or individuals with mobility impairments, thereby potentially enhancing motor performance. In this manuscript, we aim to (1) provide a brief overview of age-related changes of motor performance, (2) summarize established clinical and laboratory test procedures for the assessment of motor performance, (3) discuss the possibilities of translating established test procedures into exoskeleton-based procedures, and (4) highlight the feasibility, technological requirements and prerequisites for the assessment of human motor performance using lower limb exoskeletons.

Equipmentless point-of-care testing of dengue antibodies using ELISA and smartphones.

Infections with the dengue virus affect more than 100 million people every year. The infected can present a mild form of the disease or a severe form, which can, eventually, lead to death. Dengue prevails in tropical and subtropical regions, although increased incidence has been observed in the last years in tempered climates. Vaccines are available but testing for previous infection is often required prior to application. Commercially available ELISA and rapid tests for the diagnosis of dengue IgG do not fulfill individually the performance required by control agencies. In this context, rapid, simple and decentralized point-of-care testing (POCT) is highly desirable. However, POCT approaches available usually offer expensive solutions, often due to the complex complementary hardware required. In this article, an equipmentless system based on a commercial ELISA kit and a smartphone is developed for POCT of dengue antibodies. A customized app provides guiding, optical reading, result reporting and connectivity. The reading method employes an algorithm which requires no external information, other than the available on the digital images from the smartphone camera, to classify samples into positives, negatives or indeterminates. The full system operation, from sample extraction to result reporting, was tested in a low resource medical facility with real patients (n = 26). After comparison with an ELISA reader, a Cohen's κ coefficient of 0.92 was obtained, showing very good agreement between both methods. These results show that it is possible to perform ELISA with no specific equipment, bringing massive testing at low resource facilities one step closer.

FALLS IN ADULTS: STEADI AND DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT PREDICTIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract Falls are the leading cause of death with fall rates continuing to rise. The Center for Disease Control, (CDC, 2020) predicted that by the year 2030 there will be 53 million falls among older adults. This alarming rate of falls resulted in a comparative study of the Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths &amp; Injuries (STEADI) assessments as well as the sensitivity and specificity of the tools. Research was conducted (n=116) to determine if a condensed 3-question questionnaire could provide a brief comprehensive evaluation of fall risk. The data was then analyzed to determine if the provision of specific durable medical equipment (DME) impacted the results of either STEADI assessment. The study involved distributing both versions of the STEADI electronically to participants at Chosen Mission Incorporated, a non-profit that distributes DME at no cost to their local community. The condensed STEADI was found to have a strong correlation to the comprehensive STEADI as well as the acquisition of DME. The assessment demonstrated a high sensitivity and low specificity indicating a connection between fall risk and actual falls within six months. The findings from this research may benefit healthcare professionals to better and more quickly identify individuals with increased fall risk and potential for falls within six months.

Waste SMD LEDs from End-of-Life Residential LED Lamps: Presence and Characterisation of Rare Earth Elements and Precious Metals as a Function of Correlated Colour Temperature

Energy consumption in buildings is linked to lighting technology. Light-emitting diode (LED) technology includes lamps and luminaires for general lighting applications. Due to their structure, LED lamps are expected to generate specific waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) streams. LEDs are the main source of luminous flux, and their elemental composition is of particular interest to the recycling sector. In this study, surface-mount device (SMD) LEDs from six types of LED lamps (E27, E14, G9, R7S, GU10, and MR16) were removed, collected, separated by correlated colour temperature (CCT) (2700 K, 3000 K, 4000 K, and 6500 K), and characterised for the presence of rare earth elements and precious metals. They were digested with HNO3, aqua regia, and HF in a hot plate and characterised by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The concentration of each element as a function of CCT ranged as follows: lanthanum, 242–1840 mg/kg; cerium, 132–284 mg/kg; europium, 15–69 mg/kg; gadolinium, 1.9–3.8 mg/kg; terbium, 0.1–0.4 mg/kg; lutetium, 29–6381 mg/kg; yttrium, 4804–11,551 mg/kg; silver, 2712–5262 mg/kg; gold, 502–956 mg/kg; and palladium, 32–110 mg/kg. These results indicate the need for selective removal and separate recycling processes of SMD LEDs from LED lamps.

Rapid In-Field Detection of Airborne Pathogens Using Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP).

Multiple human and plant pathogens are dispersed and transmitted as bioaerosols (e.g., Mycobacterium tuberculosis, SARS-CoV-2, Legionella pneumophila, Aspergillus fumigatus, Phytophthora spp., and Fusarium graminearum). Rapid, on-site methods to detect airborne pathogens would greatly enhance our ability to monitor exposure and trigger early mitigation measures across different settings. Analysis of air samples for microorganisms in a regulatory context is often based on culture-based methods, which are slow, lack specificity, and are not suitable for detecting viruses. Molecular methods (based on nucleic acids) could overcome these challenges. For example, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is rapid, sensitive, specific, and may detect microbial pathogens from air samples in under 60 min. However, the low biomass in air samples makes recovering sufficient nucleic acids for detection challenging. To overcome this, we present a simple method for concentrating bioaerosols collected through liquid impingement (one of the most common methods for bioaerosol collection). This method paired with LAMP (or other molecular approaches) offers simple, rapid, and sensitive detection of pathogens. We validated this method using three airborne pathogens (Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Legionella pneumophila, and Aspergillus fumigatus), and we were able to detect fewer than five cells in a 15 mL liquid impinger air sample in under 60 min. This simple method offers rapid pathogen detection without the use of specialist equipment, and it can be used across healthcare, education, environmental monitoring, and military settings.

Wafer-Level Packaging of Microelectromechanical Systems Based on Frame Structure

Modern microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) are devices that incorporate microelectronic components and micromechanical structures on a single chip. Packaging is a mandatory stage in MEMS manufacturing. It ensures mechanical protection, sealing and transmission of electric energy and signals. The present work was aimed at developing a MEMS packaging method as a part of the consolidated manufacturing process. The method is developed on the example of a microwave MEMS switch. The switch manufacturing scheme includes conventional technologies used for producing gallium arsenide integrated circuits: optical lithography, liquid etching, electron-beam and magnetron deposition of metallic, resistive and dielectric films. The work presents a new inter-plate MEMS packaging based on a frame structure with a passivating film. The main purpose of the package frame layer is mechanical support for an upper layer of the sealing material. The frame layer should have the structure allowing for unimpeded removal of the sacrificial photoresist and be impermeable for the sealant. To satisfy the requirements stated, a metallic thin copper-film spatial frame was fabricated by galvanic deposition. The frame structure is a geodesic dome comprised of a complex network of triangle cells arranged in rows. The connected triangles create a self-supporting durable framework. The measurement and modeling results demonstrate that the round frame structure is more durable than a square frame with the same maximum cell dimensions. The stress-strain state for the round framework considerably alters depending on the number of rows of triangle cells. In addition to the mechanical support, the cell structure of the framework – with adequate selection of cell dimensions, solvent and sealant viscosities – allows for unimpeded penetration of the solvent (N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, NMP) and removal of ma-P1225 photoresist sacrificial layers. At the same time, the layer structure is impermeable for the sealant (benzocyclobutene, BCB). The proposed MEMS switch packaging enables mass fabrication of GaAs integrated circuits in a single process, which expands their frequency range. The new plate-level packaging technology is absolutely compatible with MEMS fabrication technology without specific materials and equipment which reduces the dimensions and cost of MEMS.

Standardization and advancements efforts in breast diffusion-weighted imaging.

Recent advancements in breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have significantly enhanced breast cancer detection and characterization. Breast MRI offers superior sensitivity, particularly valuable for high-risk screening and assessing disease extent. Abbreviated protocols have emerged, providing efficient cancer detection while reducing scan time and cost. Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), a non-contrast technique, has shown promise in differentiating malignant from benign lesions. It offers shorter scanning times and eliminates contrast agent risks. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values provide quantitative measures for lesion characterization, potentially reducing unnecessary biopsies. Studies have revealed some correlations between ADC values and hormone receptor status in breast cancers, although substantial variability exists among studies. However, standardization remains challenging. Initiatives such as European Society of Breast Imaging (EUSOBI), Diffusion-Weighted Imaging Screening Trial (DWIST), Quantitative Imaging Biomarkers Alliance (QIBA) have proposed guidelines to ensure consistency in imaging protocols and equipment specifications, addressing variability in ADC measurements across different sites and vendors. Advanced techniques like Intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) and non-Gaussian DWI offer insights into tissue microvasculature and microstructure. Despite ongoing challenges, the integration of these advanced MRI techniques shows great promise for improving breast cancer diagnosis, characterization, and treatment planning. Continued research and standardization efforts are crucial for maximizing the potential of breast DWI in enhancing patient care and outcomes.

Method to Generate Chlorine Dioxide Gas In Situ for Sterilization of Automated Incubators.

Pharmaceutical preclinical tests using cell cultures are nowadays commonly automated. Incubator microbial contaminations impact such tests. Chlorine dioxide (ClO2) is widely used in aqueous solutions. However, a gaseous form, such as chlorine dioxide gas (gClO2), can effectively access unreachable spaces, such as closed cell culture incubators. Steam sterilization requires a temperature rise to at least 121 °C, thus limiting the possibility of automation elements for sensors and actuators. gClO2 sterilization is an ambient-temperature sterilization method. This article aims to demonstrate that gClO2 generated from solid powder tablets is efficient for sterilizing incubators and can be automated. We selected (i) Bacillus subtilis strain, (ii) Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and (iii) T7 phages as representatives for (i) bacteria, (ii) fungi, and (iii) viruses for each domain to evaluate the sterilization efficiency. This study demonstrated that gClO2 can be generated inside the incubator from a solid powder tablet without specific equipment and can effectively fight biological proxies in 15 min. After 30 sterilization cycles, the actuators and sensors mounted inside the incubator were still operating. Our proposed sterilization method seems to be generally applicable for automated in situ sterilization of incubators and medical robots.