A Portable, Low-Cost, LED Fluorimeter for Middle School, High School, and Undergraduate Chemistry Labs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wigton, Benjamin T.; Chohan, Balwant S.; McDonald, Cole; Johnson, Matt; Schunk, Doug; Kreuter, Rod; Sykes, Dan

2011-01-01

A low-cost portable fluorimeter was constructed using a 360 nm LED for excitation and a silicon photodiode for detection. The instrument is simple to operate and has been used to investigate fluorescent whitening agents extracted from various brands of paper, to determine the linear range and limit of detection of quinine in various commercial…

Development of a low cost portable fluorometry technology and quantification of cannabinoids in body fluids

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1977-05-04

Technology was developed for determining delta sup 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (I) and its major metabolite 11-nor-delta sup 9-tetrahydrocannabinol-9-carboxylic acid (II) in human blood plasma utilizing high pressure liquid chromatography (hplc)-ultraviol...

In what ways can low-cost portable monitors best be utilized for health research and patient care in locations that do not have an existing stationary monitoring network?

EPA Science Inventory

The presentation provides a short view point in response to the question "In what ways can low-cost portable monitors best be utilized for health research and patient care in locations that do not have an existing stationary monitoring network?" The response notes the ...

High-pressure portable pneumatic drive unit.

PubMed

Hete, B F; Savage, M; Batur, C; Smith, W A; Golding, L A; Nosé, Y

1989-12-01

The left ventricular assist device (LVAD) of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation (CCF) is a single-chamber assist pump, driven by a high-pressure pneumatic cylinder. A low-cost, portable driver that will allow cardiac care patients, with a high-pressure pneumatic ventricle assist, more freedom of movement has been developed. The compact and light-weight configuration can provide periods of 2 h of freedom from a fixed position driver and does not use exotic technology.

Portable, low-cost NMR with laser-lathe lithography produced microcoils.

PubMed

Demas, Vasiliki; Herberg, Julie L; Malba, Vince; Bernhardt, Anthony; Evans, Lee; Harvey, Christopher; Chinn, Sarah C; Maxwell, Robert S; Reimer, Jeffrey

2007-11-01

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) is unsurpassed in its ability to non-destructively probe chemical identity. Portable, low-cost NMR sensors would enable on-site identification of potentially hazardous substances, as well as the study of samples in a variety of industrial applications. Recent developments in RF microcoil construction (i.e. coils much smaller than the standard 5mm NMR RF coils), have dramatically increased NMR sensitivity and decreased the limits-of-detection (LOD). We are using advances in laser pantographic microfabrication techniques, unique to LLNL, to produce RF microcoils for field deployable, high sensitivity NMR-based detectors. This same fabrication technique can be used to produce imaging coils for MRI as well as for standard hardware shimming or "ex-situ" shimming of field inhomogeneities typically associated with inexpensive magnets. This paper describes a portable NMR system based on the use of a 2 kg hand-held permanent magnet, laser-fabricated microcoils, and a compact spectrometer. The main limitations for such a system are the low resolution and sensitivity associated with the low field values and quality of small permanent magnets, as well as the lack of large amounts of sample of interest in most cases. The focus of the paper is on the setting up of this system, initial results, sensitivity measurements, discussion of the limitations and future plans. The results, even though preliminary, are promising and provide the foundation for developing a portable, inexpensive NMR system for chemical analysis. Such a system will be ideal for chemical identification of trace substances on site.

Personal Computer-less (PC-less) Microcontroller Training Kit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Somantri, Y.; Wahyudin, D.; Fushilat, I.

2018-02-01

The need of microcontroller training kit is necessary for practical work of students of electrical engineering education. However, to use available training kit not only costly but also does not meet the need of laboratory requirements. An affordable and portable microcontroller kit could answer such problem. This paper explains the design and development of Personal Computer Less (PC-Less) Microcontroller Training Kit. It was developed based on Lattepanda processor and Arduino microcontroller as target. The training kit equipped with advanced input-output interfaces that adopted the concept of low cost and low power system. The preliminary usability testing proved this device can be used as a tool for microcontroller programming and industrial automation training. By adopting the concept of portability, the device could be operated in the rural area which electricity and computer infrastructure are limited. Furthermore, the training kit is suitable for student of electrical engineering student from university and vocational high school.

Analog Front-Ends comparison in the way of a portable, low-power and low-cost EMG controller based on pattern recognition EMBC 2015.

PubMed

Mastinu, Enzo; Ortiz-Catalan, Max; Hakansson, Bo

2015-01-01

Compact and low-noise Analog Front-Ends (AFEs) are becoming increasingly important for the acquisition of bioelectric signals in portable system. In this work, we compare two popular AFEs available on the market, namely the ADS1299 (Texas Instruments) and the RHA2216 (Intan Technologies). This work develops towards the identification of suitable acquisition modules to design an affordable, reliable and portable device for electromyography (EMG) acquisition and prosthetic control. Device features such as Common Mode Rejection (CMR), Input Referred Noise (IRN) and Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) were evaluated, as well as the resulting accuracy in myoelectric pattern recognition (MPR) for the decoding of motion intention. Results reported better noise performances and higher MPR accuracy for the ADS1299 and similar SNR values for both devices.

Room Temperature Sulfur Battery Cathode Design and Processing Techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carter, Rachel

As the population grows and energy demand increases, climate change threatens causing energy storage research to focus on fulfilling the requirements of two major energy sectors with next generation batteries: (1) portable energy and (2) stationary storage.1 Where portable energy can decrease transportation-related harmful emissions and enable advanced next-generation technologies,1 and stationary storage can facilitate widespread deployment of renewable energy sources, alleviating the demand on fossil fuels and lowering emissions. Portable energy can enable zero-emission transportation and can deploy portable power in advanced electronics across fields including medical and defense. Currently fully battery powered cars are limited in driving distance, which is dictated by the energy density and weight of the state-of-the-art Li-ion battery, and similarly advancement of portable electronics is significantly hindered by heavy batteries with short charge lives. In attempt to enable advanced portable energy, significant research is aiming to improve the conventional Li-ion batteries and explore beyond Li-ion battery chemistries with the primary goal of demonstrating higher energy density to enable lighter weight cells with longer battery life. Further, with the inherent intermittency challenges of our most prominent renewable energy sources, wind and solar, discovery of batteries capable of cost effectively and reliably balancing the generation of the renewable energy sources with the real-time energy demand is required for grid scale viability. Stationary storage will provide load leveling to renewable resources by storing excess energy at peak generation and delivering stored excess during periods of lower generation. This application demands highly abundant, low-cost active materials and long-term cycle stability, since infrastructure costs (combined with the renewable) must compete with burning natural gas. Development of a battery with these characteristics will require exploration of chemistries beyond the Li-ion battery for a system consisting of low cost active materials and promising device performance. (Abstract shortened by ProQuest.).

Seq-Well: portable, low-cost RNA sequencing of single cells at high throughput.

PubMed

Gierahn, Todd M; Wadsworth, Marc H; Hughes, Travis K; Bryson, Bryan D; Butler, Andrew; Satija, Rahul; Fortune, Sarah; Love, J Christopher; Shalek, Alex K

2017-04-01

Single-cell RNA-seq can precisely resolve cellular states, but applying this method to low-input samples is challenging. Here, we present Seq-Well, a portable, low-cost platform for massively parallel single-cell RNA-seq. Barcoded mRNA capture beads and single cells are sealed in an array of subnanoliter wells using a semipermeable membrane, enabling efficient cell lysis and transcript capture. We use Seq-Well to profile thousands of primary human macrophages exposed to Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

A distributed network of low-cost continuous reading sensors to measure spatiotemporal variations of PM2.5 in Xi'an, China.

PubMed

Gao, Meiling; Cao, Junji; Seto, Edmund

2015-04-01

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is a growing public health concern especially in industrializing countries but existing monitoring networks are unable to properly characterize human exposures due to low resolution spatiotemporal data. Low-cost portable monitors can supplement existing networks in both developed and industrializing regions to increase density of sites and data. This study tests the performance of a low-cost sensor in high concentration urban environments. Seven Portable University of Washington Particle (PUWP) monitors were calibrated with optical and gravimetric PM2.5 reference monitors in Xi'an, China in December 2013. Pairwise correlations between the raw PUWP and the reference monitors were high (R(2) = 0.86-0.89). PUWP monitors were also simultaneously deployed at eight sites across Xi'an alongside gravimetric PM2.5 monitors (R(2) = 0.53). The PUWP monitors were able to identify the High-technology Zone site as a potential PM2.5 hotspot with sustained high concentrations compared to the city average throughout the day. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Carbon Nanotube Sensors for Gas and Vapor Detection in Space and Terrestrial Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Jing

2005-01-01

Viewgraphs detailing the development of a nanostructure engineered, portable, low cost, low power consumption, room temperature operated chemical sensor for space and terrestrial applications is presented. The topics include: 1) Applications and Requirements; 2) Nanotechnology Advantages; 3) Current Studies on NanoChemical Sensors; and 4) Our Research Status and Results.

[Development of a portable ambulatory ECG monitor based on embedded microprocessor unit].

PubMed

Wang, Da-xiong; Wang, Guo-jun

2005-06-01

To develop a new kind of portable ambulatory ECG monitor. The hardware and software were designed based on RCA-CDP1802. New methods of ECG data compression and feature extraction of QRS complexes were applied to software design. A model for automatic arrhythmia analysis was established for real-time ambulatory ECG Data analysis. Compact, low power consumption and low cost were emphasized in the hardware design. This compact and light-weight monitor with low power consumption and high intelligence was capable of real-time monitoring arrhythmia for more than 48 h. More than ten types of arrhythmia could be detected, only the compressed abnormal ECG data was recorded and could be transmitted to the host if required. The monitor meets the design requirements and can be used for ambulatory ECG monitoring.

Code generator for implementing dual tree complex wavelet transform on reconfigurable architectures for mobile applications

PubMed Central

Canbay, Ferhat; Levent, Vecdi Emre; Serbes, Gorkem; Ugurdag, H. Fatih; Goren, Sezer

2016-01-01

The authors aimed to develop an application for producing different architectures to implement dual tree complex wavelet transform (DTCWT) having near shift-invariance property. To obtain a low-cost and portable solution for implementing the DTCWT in multi-channel real-time applications, various embedded-system approaches are realised. For comparison, the DTCWT was implemented in C language on a personal computer and on a PIC microcontroller. However, in the former approach portability and in the latter desired speed performance properties cannot be achieved. Hence, implementation of the DTCWT on a reconfigurable platform such as field programmable gate array, which provides portable, low-cost, low-power, and high-performance computing, is considered as the most feasible solution. At first, they used the system generator DSP design tool of Xilinx for algorithm design. However, the design implemented by using such tools is not optimised in terms of area and power. To overcome all these drawbacks mentioned above, they implemented the DTCWT algorithm by using Verilog Hardware Description Language, which has its own difficulties. To overcome these difficulties, simplify the usage of proposed algorithms and the adaptation procedures, a code generator program that can produce different architectures is proposed. PMID:27733925

Code generator for implementing dual tree complex wavelet transform on reconfigurable architectures for mobile applications.

PubMed

Canbay, Ferhat; Levent, Vecdi Emre; Serbes, Gorkem; Ugurdag, H Fatih; Goren, Sezer; Aydin, Nizamettin

2016-09-01

The authors aimed to develop an application for producing different architectures to implement dual tree complex wavelet transform (DTCWT) having near shift-invariance property. To obtain a low-cost and portable solution for implementing the DTCWT in multi-channel real-time applications, various embedded-system approaches are realised. For comparison, the DTCWT was implemented in C language on a personal computer and on a PIC microcontroller. However, in the former approach portability and in the latter desired speed performance properties cannot be achieved. Hence, implementation of the DTCWT on a reconfigurable platform such as field programmable gate array, which provides portable, low-cost, low-power, and high-performance computing, is considered as the most feasible solution. At first, they used the system generator DSP design tool of Xilinx for algorithm design. However, the design implemented by using such tools is not optimised in terms of area and power. To overcome all these drawbacks mentioned above, they implemented the DTCWT algorithm by using Verilog Hardware Description Language, which has its own difficulties. To overcome these difficulties, simplify the usage of proposed algorithms and the adaptation procedures, a code generator program that can produce different architectures is proposed.

A low cost, disposable cable-shaped Al-air battery for portable biosensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fotouhi, Gareth; Ogier, Caleb; Kim, Jong-Hoon; Kim, Sooyeun; Cao, Guozhong; Shen, Amy Q.; Kramlich, John; Chung, Jae-Hyun

2016-05-01

A disposable cable-shaped flexible battery is presented using a simple, low cost manufacturing process. The working principle of an aluminum-air galvanic cell is used for the cable-shaped battery to power portable and point-of-care medical devices. The battery is catalyzed with a carbon nanotube (CNT)-paper matrix. A scalable manufacturing process using a lathe is developed to wrap a paper layer and a CNT-paper matrix on an aluminum wire. The matrix is then wrapped with a silver-plated copper wire to form the battery cell. The battery is activated through absorption of electrolytes including phosphate-buffered saline, NaOH, urine, saliva, and blood into the CNT-paper matrix. The maximum electric power using a 10 mm-long battery cell is over 1.5 mW. As a demonstration, an LED is powered using two groups of four batteries in parallel connected in series. Considering the material composition and the cable-shaped configuration, the battery is fully disposable, flexible, and potentially compatible with portable biosensors through activation by either reagents or biological fluids.

Design and Validation of a Low-Cost Portable Device to Quantify Postural Stability.

PubMed

Zhu, Yong

2017-03-18

Measurement of the displacement of the center-of-pressure (COP) is an important tool used in biomechanics to assess postural stability and human balance. The goal of this research was to design and validate a low-cost portable device that can offer a quick indication of the state of postural stability and human balance related conditions. Approximate entropy (ApEn) values reflecting the amount of irregularity hiding in COP oscillations were used to calculate the index. The prototype adopted a portable design using the measurements of the load cells located at the four corners of a low-cost force platform. The test subject was asked to stand on the device in a quiet, normal, upright stance for 30 s with eyes open and subsequently for 30 s with eyes closed. Based on the COP displacement signals, the ApEn values were calculated. The results indicated that the prototype device was capable of capturing the increase in regularity of postural control in the visual-deprivation conditions. It was also able to decipher the subtle postural control differences along anterior-posterior and medial-lateral directions. The data analysis demonstrated that the prototype would enable the quantification of postural stability and thus provide a low-cost portable device to assess many conditions related to postural stability and human balance such as aging and pathologies.

Handheld probe for portable high frame photoacoustic/ultrasound imaging system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Daoudi, K.; van den Berg, P. J.; Rabot, O.; Kohl, A.; Tisserand, S.; Brands, P.; Steenbergen, W.

2013-03-01

Photoacoustics is a hybrid imaging modality that is based on the detection of acoustic waves generated by absorption of pulsed light by tissue chromophors. In current research, this technique uses large and costly photoacoustic systems with a low frame rate imaging. To open the door for widespread clinical use, a compact, cost effective and fast system is required. In this paper we report on the development of a small compact handset pulsed laser probe which will be connected to a portable ultrasound system for real-time photoacoustic imaging and ultrasound imaging. The probe integrates diode lasers driven by an electrical driver developed for very short high power pulses. It uses specifically developed highly efficient diode stacks with high frequency repetition rate up to 10 kHz, emitting at 800nm wavelength. The emitted beam is collimated and shaped with compact micro optics beam shaping system delivering a homogenized rectangular laser beam intensity distribution. The laser block is integrated with an ultrasound transducer in an ergonomically designed handset probe. This handset is a building block enabling for a low cost high frame rate photoacoustic and ultrasound imaging system. The probe was used with a modified ultrasound scanner and was tested by imaging a tissue mimicking phantom.

Declarative Knowledge Acquisition in Immersive Virtual Learning Environments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Webster, Rustin

2016-01-01

The author investigated the interaction effect of immersive virtual reality (VR) in the classroom. The objective of the project was to develop and provide a low-cost, scalable, and portable VR system containing purposely designed and developed immersive virtual learning environments for the US Army. The purpose of the mixed design experiment was…

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Williams, S.H.; Oxoby, G.J.; Trang, Q.H.

The advent of the personal microcomputer provides a new tool for the debugging, calibration and monitoring of small scale physics apparatus; e.g., a single detector being developed for a larger physics apparatus. With an appropriate interface these microcomputer systems provide a low cost (1/3 the cost of a comparable minicomputer system), convenient, dedicated, portable system which can be used in a fashion similar to that of portable oscilloscopes. Here we describe an interface between the Apple computer and CAMAC which is now being used to study the detector for a Cerenkov ring-imaging device. The Apple is particularly well-suited to thismore » application because of its ease of use, hi-resolution graphics peripheral buss and documentation support.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Oxoby, G.J.; Trang, Q.H.; Williams, S.H.

The advent of the personal microcomputer provides a new tool for the debugging, calibration and monitoring of small scale physics apparatus, e.g., a single detector being developed for a larger physics apparatus. With an appropriate interface these microcomputer systems provide a low cost (1/3 the cost of a comparable minicomputer system), convenient, dedicated, portable system which can be used in a fashion similar to that of portable oscilloscopes. Here, an interface between the Apple computer and CAMAC which is now being used to study the detector for a Cerenkov ring-imaging device is described. The Apple is particularly well-suited to thismore » application because of its ease of use, hi-resolution graphics, peripheral bus and documentation support.« less

On the spot damage detection methodology for highway bridges during natural crises : tech transfer summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-07-01

The objective of this work was to develop a : low-cost portable damage detection tool to : assess and predict damage areas in highway : bridges. : The proposed tool was based on standard : vibration-based damage identification (VBDI) : techniques but...

Adapting smartphones for low-cost optical medical imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pratavieira, Sebastião.; Vollet-Filho, José D.; Carbinatto, Fernanda M.; Blanco, Kate; Inada, Natalia M.; Bagnato, Vanderlei S.; Kurachi, Cristina

2015-06-01

Optical images have been used in several medical situations to improve diagnosis of lesions or to monitor treatments. However, most systems employ expensive scientific (CCD or CMOS) cameras and need computers to display and save the images, usually resulting in a high final cost for the system. Additionally, this sort of apparatus operation usually becomes more complex, requiring more and more specialized technical knowledge from the operator. Currently, the number of people using smartphone-like devices with built-in high quality cameras is increasing, which might allow using such devices as an efficient, lower cost, portable imaging system for medical applications. Thus, we aim to develop methods of adaptation of those devices to optical medical imaging techniques, such as fluorescence. Particularly, smartphones covers were adapted to connect a smartphone-like device to widefield fluorescence imaging systems. These systems were used to detect lesions in different tissues, such as cervix and mouth/throat mucosa, and to monitor ALA-induced protoporphyrin-IX formation for photodynamic treatment of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia. This approach may contribute significantly to low-cost, portable and simple clinical optical imaging collection.

Portable Nanoparticle-Based Sensors for Food Safety Assessment

PubMed Central

Bülbül, Gonca; Hayat, Akhtar; Andreescu, Silvana

2015-01-01

The use of nanotechnology-derived products in the development of sensors and analytical measurement methodologies has increased significantly over the past decade. Nano-based sensing approaches include the use of nanoparticles (NPs) and nanostructures to enhance sensitivity and selectivity, design new detection schemes, improve sample preparation and increase portability. This review summarizes recent advancements in the design and development of NP-based sensors for assessing food safety. The most common types of NPs used to fabricate sensors for detection of food contaminants are discussed. Selected examples of NP-based detection schemes with colorimetric and electrochemical detection are provided with focus on sensors for the detection of chemical and biological contaminants including pesticides, heavy metals, bacterial pathogens and natural toxins. Current trends in the development of low-cost portable NP-based technology for rapid assessment of food safety as well as challenges for practical implementation and future research directions are discussed. PMID:26690169

Improving the Sensitivity and Functionality of Mobile Webcam-Based Fluorescence Detectors for Point-of-Care Diagnostics in Global Health.

PubMed

Rasooly, Reuven; Bruck, Hugh Alan; Balsam, Joshua; Prickril, Ben; Ossandon, Miguel; Rasooly, Avraham

2016-05-17

Resource-poor countries and regions require effective, low-cost diagnostic devices for accurate identification and diagnosis of health conditions. Optical detection technologies used for many types of biological and clinical analysis can play a significant role in addressing this need, but must be sufficiently affordable and portable for use in global health settings. Most current clinical optical imaging technologies are accurate and sensitive, but also expensive and difficult to adapt for use in these settings. These challenges can be mitigated by taking advantage of affordable consumer electronics mobile devices such as webcams, mobile phones, charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras, lasers, and LEDs. Low-cost, portable multi-wavelength fluorescence plate readers have been developed for many applications including detection of microbial toxins such as C. Botulinum A neurotoxin, Shiga toxin, and S. aureus enterotoxin B (SEB), and flow cytometry has been used to detect very low cell concentrations. However, the relatively low sensitivities of these devices limit their clinical utility. We have developed several approaches to improve their sensitivity presented here for webcam based fluorescence detectors, including (1) image stacking to improve signal-to-noise ratios; (2) lasers to enable fluorescence excitation for flow cytometry; and (3) streak imaging to capture the trajectory of a single cell, enabling imaging sensors with high noise levels to detect rare cell events. These approaches can also help to overcome some of the limitations of other low-cost optical detection technologies such as CCD or phone-based detectors (like high noise levels or low sensitivities), and provide for their use in low-cost medical diagnostics in resource-poor settings.

Improving the Sensitivity and Functionality of Mobile Webcam-Based Fluorescence Detectors for Point-of-Care Diagnostics in Global Health

PubMed Central

Rasooly, Reuven; Bruck, Hugh Alan; Balsam, Joshua; Prickril, Ben; Ossandon, Miguel; Rasooly, Avraham

2016-01-01

Resource-poor countries and regions require effective, low-cost diagnostic devices for accurate identification and diagnosis of health conditions. Optical detection technologies used for many types of biological and clinical analysis can play a significant role in addressing this need, but must be sufficiently affordable and portable for use in global health settings. Most current clinical optical imaging technologies are accurate and sensitive, but also expensive and difficult to adapt for use in these settings. These challenges can be mitigated by taking advantage of affordable consumer electronics mobile devices such as webcams, mobile phones, charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras, lasers, and LEDs. Low-cost, portable multi-wavelength fluorescence plate readers have been developed for many applications including detection of microbial toxins such as C. Botulinum A neurotoxin, Shiga toxin, and S. aureus enterotoxin B (SEB), and flow cytometry has been used to detect very low cell concentrations. However, the relatively low sensitivities of these devices limit their clinical utility. We have developed several approaches to improve their sensitivity presented here for webcam based fluorescence detectors, including (1) image stacking to improve signal-to-noise ratios; (2) lasers to enable fluorescence excitation for flow cytometry; and (3) streak imaging to capture the trajectory of a single cell, enabling imaging sensors with high noise levels to detect rare cell events. These approaches can also help to overcome some of the limitations of other low-cost optical detection technologies such as CCD or phone-based detectors (like high noise levels or low sensitivities), and provide for their use in low-cost medical diagnostics in resource-poor settings. PMID:27196933

Enzyme-Encapsulated Liposome-Linked Immunosorbent Assay Enabling Sensitive Personal Glucose Meter Readout for Portable Detection of Disease Biomarkers.

PubMed

Lin, Bingqian; Liu, Dan; Yan, Jinmao; Qiao, Zhi; Zhong, Yunxin; Yan, Jiawei; Zhu, Zhi; Ji, Tianhai; Yang, Chaoyong James

2016-03-23

There is considerable demand for sensitive, selective, and portable detection of disease-associated proteins, particularly in clinical practice and diagnostic applications. Portable devices are highly desired for detection of disease biomarkers in daily life due to the advantages of being simple, rapid, user-friendly, and low-cost. Herein we report an enzyme-encapsulated liposome-linked immunosorbent assay for sensitive detection of proteins using personal glucose meters (PGM) for portable quantitative readout. Liposomes encapsulating a large amount of amyloglucosidase or invertase are surface-coated with recognition elements such as aptamers or antibodies for target recognition. By translating molecular recognition signal into a large amount of glucose with the encapsulated enzyme, disease biomarkers such as thrombin or C-reactive protein (CRP) can be quantitatively detected by a PGM with a high detection limit of 1.8 or 0.30 nM, respectively. With the advantages of portability, ease of use, and low-cost, the method reported here has potential for portable and quantitative detection of various targets for different POC testing scenarios, such as rapid diagnosis in clinic offices, health monitoring at the bedside, and chemical/biochemical safety control in the field.

Self-powered integrated systems-on-chip (energy chip)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hussain, M. M.; Fahad, H.; Rojas, J.; Hasan, M.; Talukdar, A.; Oommen, J.; Mink, J.

2010-04-01

In today's world, consumer driven technology wants more portable electronic gadgets to be developed, and the next big thing in line is self-powered handheld devices. Therefore to reduce the power consumption as well as to supply sufficient power to run those devices, several critical technical challenges need to be overcome: a. Nanofabrication of macro/micro systems which incorporates the direct benefit of light weight (thus portability), low power consumption, faster response, higher sensitivity and batch production (low cost). b. Integration of advanced nano-materials to meet the performance/cost benefit trend. Nano-materials may offer new functionalities that were previously underutilized in the macro/micro dimension. c. Energy efficiency to reduce power consumption and to supply enough power to meet that low power demand. We present a pragmatic perspective on a self-powered integrated System on Chip (SoC). We envision the integrated device will have two objectives: low power consumption/dissipation and on-chip power generation for implementation into handheld or remote technologies for defense, space, harsh environments and medical applications. This paper provides insight on materials choices, intelligent circuit design, and CMOS compatible integration.

A microcontroller platform for the rapid prototyping of functional electrical stimulation-based gait neuroprostheses.

PubMed

Luzio de Melo, Paulo; da Silva, Miguel Tavares; Martins, Jorge; Newman, Dava

2015-05-01

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) has been used over the last decades as a method to rehabilitate lost motor functions of individuals with spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and post-stroke hemiparesis. Within this field, researchers in need of developing FES-based control solutions for specific disabilities often have to choose between either the acquisition and integration of high-performance industry-level systems, which are rather expensive and hardly portable, or develop custom-made portable solutions, which despite their lower cost, usually require expert-level electronic skills. Here, a flexible low-cost microcontroller-based platform for rapid prototyping of FES neuroprostheses is presented, designed for reduced execution complexity, development time, and production cost. For this reason, the Arduino open-source microcontroller platform was used, together with off-the-shelf components whenever possible. The developed system enables the rapid deployment of portable FES-based gait neuroprostheses, being flexible enough to allow simple open-loop strategies but also more complex closed-loop solutions. The system is based on a modular architecture that allows the development of optimized solutions depending on the desired FES applications, even though the design and testing of the platform were focused toward drop foot correction. The flexibility of the system was demonstrated using two algorithms targeting drop foot condition within different experimental setups. Successful bench testing of the device in healthy subjects demonstrated these neuroprosthesis platform capabilities to correct drop foot. Copyright © 2015 International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Expansion Mini-Microscopy: An Enabling Alternative in Point-of-Care Diagnostics

PubMed Central

Zhang, Yu Shrike; Santiago, Grissel Trujillo-de; Alvarez, Mario Moisés; Schiff, Steven J.; Boyden, Edward S.; Khademhosseini, Ali

2017-01-01

Diagnostics play a significant role in health care. In the developing world and low-resource regions the utility for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics becomes even greater. This need has long been recognized, and diagnostic technology has seen tremendous progress with the development of portable instrumentation such as miniature imagers featuring low complexity and cost. However, such inexpensive devices have not been able to achieve a resolution sufficient for POC detection of pathogens at very small scales, such as single-cell parasites, bacteria, fungi, and viruses. To this end, expansion microscopy (ExM) is a recently developed technique that, by physically expanding preserved biological specimens through a chemical process, enables super-resolution imaging on conventional microscopes and improves imaging resolution of a given microscope without the need to modify the existing microscope hardware. Here we review recent advances in ExM and portable imagers, respectively, and discuss the rational combination of the two technologies, that we term expansion mini-microscopy (ExMM). In ExMM, the physical expansion of a biological sample followed by imaging on a mini-microscope achieves a resolution as high as that attainable by conventional high-end microscopes imaging non-expanded samples, at significant reduction in cost. We believe that this newly developed ExMM technique is likely to find widespread applications in POC diagnostics in resource-limited and remote regions by expanded-scale imaging of biological specimens that are otherwise not resolvable using low-cost imagers. PMID:29062977

Droplet-based Biosensing for Lab-on-a-Chip, Open Microfluidics Platforms

PubMed Central

Dak, Piyush; Ebrahimi, Aida; Swaminathan, Vikhram; Duarte-Guevara, Carlos; Bashir, Rashid; Alam, Muhammad A.

2016-01-01

Low cost, portable sensors can transform health care by bringing easily available diagnostic devices to low and middle income population, particularly in developing countries. Sample preparation, analyte handling and labeling are primary cost concerns for traditional lab-based diagnostic systems. Lab-on-a-chip (LoC) platforms based on droplet-based microfluidics promise to integrate and automate these complex and expensive laboratory procedures onto a single chip; the cost will be further reduced if label-free biosensors could be integrated onto the LoC platforms. Here, we review some recent developments of label-free, droplet-based biosensors, compatible with “open” digital microfluidic systems. These low-cost droplet-based biosensors overcome some of the fundamental limitations of the classical sensors, enabling timely diagnosis. We identify the key challenges that must be addressed to make these sensors commercially viable and summarize a number of promising research directions. PMID:27089377

Droplet-based Biosensing for Lab-on-a-Chip, Open Microfluidics Platforms.

PubMed

Dak, Piyush; Ebrahimi, Aida; Swaminathan, Vikhram; Duarte-Guevara, Carlos; Bashir, Rashid; Alam, Muhammad A

2016-04-14

Low cost, portable sensors can transform health care by bringing easily available diagnostic devices to low and middle income population, particularly in developing countries. Sample preparation, analyte handling and labeling are primary cost concerns for traditional lab-based diagnostic systems. Lab-on-a-chip (LoC) platforms based on droplet-based microfluidics promise to integrate and automate these complex and expensive laboratory procedures onto a single chip; the cost will be further reduced if label-free biosensors could be integrated onto the LoC platforms. Here, we review some recent developments of label-free, droplet-based biosensors, compatible with "open" digital microfluidic systems. These low-cost droplet-based biosensors overcome some of the fundamental limitations of the classical sensors, enabling timely diagnosis. We identify the key challenges that must be addressed to make these sensors commercially viable and summarize a number of promising research directions.

Assembly and Validation of a Colorimeter

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hughes, Bill

2013-01-01

A low-cost and portable colorimeter kit has been designed and developed as an educational tool at Penn State University by Dr. Daniel Sykes for K-12 schools' integrated STEM learning. This scientific instrument allows students to learn how scientists utilize light as a means to study the chemical and physical properties of materials with an…

Power sources for portable electronics and hybrid cars: lithium batteries and fuel cells.

PubMed

Scrosati, Bruno

2005-01-01

The activities in progress in our laboratory for the development of batteries and fuel cells for portable electronics and hybrid car applications are reviewed and discussed. In the case of lithium batteries, the research has been mainly focused on the characterization of new electrode and electrolyte materials. Results related to disordered carbon anodes and improved, solvent-free, as well as gel-type, polymer electrolytes are particularly stressed. It is shown that the use of proper gel electrolytes, in combination with suitable electrode couples, allows the development of new types of safe, reliable, and low-cost lithium ion batteries which appear to be very promising power sources for hybrid vehicles. Some of the technologies proven to be successful in the lithium battery area are readapted for use in fuel cells. In particular, this approach has been followed for the preparation of low-cost and stable protonic membranes to be proposed as an alternative to the expensive, perfluorosulfonic membranes presently used in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Copyright 2005 The Japan Chemical Journal Forum and Wiley Periodicals, Inc

Low-Cost, Robust, and Field Portable Smartphone Platform Photometric Sensor for Fluoride Level Detection in Drinking Water.

PubMed

Hussain, Iftak; Ahamad, Kamal Uddin; Nath, Pabitra

2017-01-03

Groundwater is the major source of drinking water for people living in rural areas of India. Pollutants such as fluoride in groundwater may be present in much higher concentration than the permissible limit. Fluoride does not give any visible coloration to water, and hence, no effort is made to remove or reduce the concentration of this chemical present in drinking water. This may lead to a serious health hazard for those people taking groundwater as their primary source of drinking water. Sophisticated laboratory grade tools such as ion selective electrodes (ISE) and portable spectrophotometers are commercially available for in-field detection of fluoride level in drinking water. However, such tools are generally expensive and require expertise to handle. In this paper, we demonstrate the working of a low cost, robust, and field portable smartphone platform fluoride sensor that can detect and analyze fluoride concentration level in drinking water. For development of the proposed sensor, we utilize the ambient light sensor (ALS) of the smartphone as light intensity detector and its LED flash light as an optical source. An android application "FSense" has been developed which can detect and analyze the fluoride concentration level in water samples. The custom developed application can be used for sharing of in-field sensing data from any remote location to the central water quality monitoring station. We envision that the proposed sensing technique could be useful for initiating a fluoride removal program undertaken by governmental and nongovernmental organizations here in India.

Design and development of a highly sensitive, field portable plasma source instrument for on-line liquid stream monitoring and real-time sample analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duan, Yixiang; Su, Yongxuan; Jin, Zhe; Abeln, Stephen P.

2000-03-01

The development of a highly sensitive, field portable, low-powered instrument for on-site, real-time liquid waste stream monitoring is described in this article. A series of factors such as system sensitivity and portability, plasma source, sample introduction, desolvation system, power supply, and the instrument configuration, were carefully considered in the design of the portable instrument. A newly designed, miniature, modified microwave plasma source was selected as the emission source for spectroscopy measurement, and an integrated small spectrometer with a charge-coupled device detector was installed for signal processing and detection. An innovative beam collection system with optical fibers was designed and used for emission signal collection. Microwave plasma can be sustained with various gases at relatively low power, and it possesses high detection capabilities for both metal and nonmetal pollutants, making it desirable to use for on-site, real-time, liquid waste stream monitoring. An effective in situ sampling system was coupled with a high efficiency desolvation device for direct-sampling liquid samples into the plasma. A portable computer control system is used for data processing. The new, integrated instrument can be easily used for on-site, real-time monitoring in the field. The system possesses a series of advantages, including high sensitivity for metal and nonmetal elements; in situ sampling; compact structure; low cost; and ease of operation and handling. These advantages will significantly overcome the limitations of previous monitoring techniques and make great contributions to environmental restoration and monitoring.

A Portable Low-Power Acquisition System with a Urease Bioelectrochemical Sensor for Potentiometric Detection of Urea Concentrations.

PubMed

Ma, Wei-Jhe; Luo, Ching-Hsing; Lin, Jiun-Ling; Chou, Sin-Houng; Chen, Ping-Hung; Syu, Mei-Jywan; Kuo, Shin-Hung; Lai, Shin-Chi

2016-04-02

This paper presents a portable low-power battery-driven bioelectrochemical signal acquisition system for urea detection. The proposed design has several advantages, including high performance, low cost, low-power consumption, and high portability. A LT1789-1 low-supply-voltage instrumentation amplifier (IA) was used to measure and amplify the open-circuit potential (OCP) between the working and reference electrodes. An MSP430 micro-controller was programmed to process and transduce the signals to the custom-developed software by ZigBee RF module in wireless mode and UART in able mode. The immobilized urease sensor was prepared by embedding urease into the polymer (aniline-co-o-phenylenediamine) polymeric matrix and then coating/depositing it onto a MEMS-fabricated Au working electrode. The linear correlation established between the urea concentration and the potentiometric change is in the urea concentrations range of 3.16 × 10(-4) to 3.16 × 10(-2) M with a sensitivity of 31.12 mV/log [M] and a precision of 0.995 (R² = 0.995). This portable device not only detects urea concentrations, but can also operate continuously with a 3.7 V rechargeab-le lithium-ion battery (500 mA·h) for at least four days. Accordingly, its use is feasible and even promising for home-care applications.

A Portable Low-Power Acquisition System with a Urease Bioelectrochemical Sensor for Potentiometric Detection of Urea Concentrations

PubMed Central

Ma, Wei-Jhe; Luo, Ching-Hsing; Lin, Jiun-Ling; Chou, Sin-Houng; Chen, Ping-Hung; Syu, Mei-Jywan; Kuo, Shin-Hung; Lai, Shin-Chi

2016-01-01

This paper presents a portable low-power battery-driven bioelectrochemical signal acquisition system for urea detection. The proposed design has several advantages, including high performance, low cost, low-power consumption, and high portability. A LT1789-1 low-supply-voltage instrumentation amplifier (IA) was used to measure and amplify the open-circuit potential (OCP) between the working and reference electrodes. An MSP430 micro-controller was programmed to process and transduce the signals to the custom-developed software by ZigBee RF module in wireless mode and UART in able mode. The immobilized urease sensor was prepared by embedding urease into the polymer (aniline-co-o-phenylenediamine) polymeric matrix and then coating/depositing it onto a MEMS-fabricated Au working electrode. The linear correlation established between the urea concentration and the potentiometric change is in the urea concentrations range of 3.16 × 10−4 to 3.16 × 10−2 M with a sensitivity of 31.12 mV/log [M] and a precision of 0.995 (R2 = 0.995). This portable device not only detects urea concentrations, but can also operate continuously with a 3.7 V rechargeab-le lithium-ion battery (500 mA·h) for at least four days. Accordingly, its use is feasible and even promising for home-care applications. PMID:27049390

Laser machined plastic laminates. Towards portable diagnostic devices for use in low resource environments

DOE PAGES

Harper, Jason C.; Carson, Bryan D.; Bachand, George D.; ...

2015-07-14

Despite significant progress in development of bioanalytical devices cost, complexity, access to reagents and lack of infrastructure have prevented use of these technologies in resource-limited regions. To provide a sustainable tool in the global effort to combat infectious diseases the diagnostic device must be low cost, simple to operate and read, robust, and have sensitivity and specificity comparable to laboratory analysis. Thus, in this mini-review we describe recent work using laser machined plastic laminates to produce diagnostic devices that are capable of a wide variety of bioanalytical measurements and show great promise towards future use in low-resource environments.

Portable device for the detection of colorimetric assays

PubMed Central

Nowak, E.; Kawchuk, J.; Hoorfar, M.; Najjaran, H.

2017-01-01

In this work, a low-cost, portable device is developed to detect colorimetric assays for in-field and point-of-care (POC) analysis. The device can rapidly detect both pH values and nitrite concentrations of five different samples, simultaneously. After mixing samples with specific reagents, a high-resolution digital camera collects a picture of the sample, and a single-board computer processes the image in real time to identify the hue–saturation–value coordinates of the image. An internal light source reduces the effect of any ambient light so the device can accurately determine the corresponding pH values or nitrite concentrations. The device was purposefully designed to be low-cost, yet versatile, and the accuracy of the results have been compared to those from a conventional method. The results obtained for pH values have a mean standard deviation of 0.03 and a correlation coefficient R2 of 0.998. The detection of nitrites is between concentrations of 0.4–1.6 mg l−1, with a low detection limit of 0.2 mg l−1, and has a mean standard deviation of 0.073 and an R2 value of 0.999. The results represent great potential of the proposed portable device as an excellent analytical tool for POC colorimetric analysis and offer broad accessibility in resource-limited settings. PMID:29291093

ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY DISTRIBUTED ENERGY STORAGE BATTERY

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

LANDI, J.T.; PLIVELICH, R.F.

2006-04-30

Electro Energy, Inc. conducted a research project to develop an energy efficient and environmentally friendly bipolar Ni-MH battery for distributed energy storage applications. Rechargeable batteries with long life and low cost potentially play a significant role by reducing electricity cost and pollution. A rechargeable battery functions as a reservoir for storage for electrical energy, carries energy for portable applications, or can provide peaking energy when a demand for electrical power exceeds primary generating capabilities.

SkinScan©: A PORTABLE LIBRARY FOR MELANOMA DETECTION ON HANDHELD DEVICES

PubMed Central

Wadhawan, Tarun; Situ, Ning; Lancaster, Keith; Yuan, Xiaojing; Zouridakis, George

2011-01-01

We have developed a portable library for automated detection of melanoma termed SkinScan© that can be used on smartphones and other handheld devices. Compared to desktop computers, embedded processors have limited processing speed, memory, and power, but they have the advantage of portability and low cost. In this study we explored the feasibility of running a sophisticated application for automated skin cancer detection on an Apple iPhone 4. Our results demonstrate that the proposed library with the advanced image processing and analysis algorithms has excellent performance on handheld and desktop computers. Therefore, deployment of smartphones as screening devices for skin cancer and other skin diseases can have a significant impact on health care delivery in underserved and remote areas. PMID:21892382

A microcontroller-based portable electrocardiograph recorder.

PubMed

Segura-Juárez, José J; Cuesta-Frau, David; Samblas-Pena, Luis; Aboy, Mateo

2004-09-01

We describe a low cost portable Holter design that can be implemented with off-the-shelf components. The recorder is battery powered and includes a graphical display and keyboard. The recorder is capable of acquiring up to 48 hours of continuous electrocardiogram data at a sample rate of up to 250 Hz.

Moving toward rapid and low-cost point-of-care molecular diagnostics with a repurposed 3D printer and RPA.

PubMed

Chan, Kamfai; Wong, Pui-Yan; Parikh, Chaitanya; Wong, Season

2018-03-15

Traditionally, the majority of nucleic acid amplification-based molecular diagnostic tests are done in centralized settings. In recent years, point-of-care tests have been developed for use in low-resource settings away from central laboratories. While most experts agree that point-of-care molecular tests are greatly needed, their availability as cost-effective and easy-to-operate tests remains an unmet goal. In this article, we discuss our efforts to develop a recombinase polymerase amplification reaction-based test that will meet these criteria. First, we describe our efforts in repurposing a low-cost 3D printer as a platform that can carry out medium-throughput, rapid, and high-performing nucleic acid extraction. Next, we address how these purified templates can be rapidly amplified and analyzed using the 3D printer's heated bed or the deconstructed, low-cost thermal cycler we have developed. In both approaches, real-time isothermal amplification and detection of template DNA or RNA can be accomplished using a low-cost portable detector or smartphone camera. Last, we demonstrate the capability of our technologies using foodborne pathogens and the Zika virus. Our low-cost approach does not employ complicated and high-cost components, making it suitable for resource-limited settings. When integrated and commercialized, it will offer simple sample-to-answer molecular diagnostics. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of Fully Automated Low-Cost Immunoassay System for Research Applications.

PubMed

Wang, Guochun; Das, Champak; Ledden, Bradley; Sun, Qian; Nguyen, Chien

2017-10-01

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) automation for routine operation in a small research environment would be very attractive. A portable fully automated low-cost immunoassay system was designed, developed, and evaluated with several protein analytes. It features disposable capillary columns as the reaction sites and uses real-time calibration for improved accuracy. It reduces the overall assay time to less than 75 min with the ability of easy adaptation of new testing targets. The running cost is extremely low due to the nature of automation, as well as reduced material requirements. Details about system configuration, components selection, disposable fabrication, system assembly, and operation are reported. The performance of the system was initially established with a rabbit immunoglobulin G (IgG) assay, and an example of assay adaptation with an interleukin 6 (IL6) assay is shown. This system is ideal for research use, but could work for broader testing applications with further optimization.

Use of low orbital satellite communications systems for humanitarian programs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vlasov, Vladimir N.; Gorkovoy, Vladimir

1991-01-01

Communication and information exchange play a decisive role in progress and social development. However, in many parts of the world the communication infrastructure is inadequate and the capacity for on-line exchange of information may not exist. This is true of underdeveloped countries, remote and relatively inaccessible regions, sites of natural disasters, and of all cases where the resources needed to create complex communication systems are limited. The creation of an inexpensive space communications system to service such areas is therefore a high priority task. In addition to a relatively low-cost space segment, an inexpensive space communications systems requires a large number of ground terminals, which must be relatively inexpensive, energy efficient (using power generated by storage batteries, or solar arrays, etc.), small in size, and must not require highly expert maintenance. The ground terminals must be portable, and readily deployable. Communications satellites in geostationary orbit at altitudes of about 36,000 km are very expensive and require complex and expensive ground stations and launch vehicles. Given current technology, it is categorically impossible to develop inexpensive satellite systems with portable ground terminals using such satellites. To solve the problem of developing an inexpensive satellite communications system that can operate with relatively small ground stations, including portable terminals, we propose to use a system with satellites in low Earth orbit, at an altitude of 900-1500 km. Because low orbital satellites are much closer to the Earth than geostationary ones and require vastly less energy expenditure by the satellite and ground terminals for transmission of messages, a system using them is relatively inexpensive. Such a system could use portable ground terminals no more complex than ordinary mobile police radios.

Long life, low cost, rechargeable AgZn battery for non-military applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, Curtis C.

1996-03-01

Of the rechargeable (secondary) battery systems with mature technology, the silver oxide-zinc system (AgZn) safely offers the highest power and energy (watts and watt hours) per unit of volume and mass. As a result they have long been used for aerospace and defense applications where they have also proven their high reliability. In the past, the expense associated with the cost of silver and the resulting low production volume have limited their commercial application. However, the relative low cost of silver now make this system feasible in many applications where high energy and reliability are required. One area of commercial potential is power for a new generation of sophisticated, portable medical equipment. AgZn batteries have recently proven ``enabling technology'' for power critical, advanced medical devices. By extending the cycle calendar life to the system (offers both improved performance and lower operating cost), a combination is achieved which may enable a wide range of future electrical devices. Other areas where AgZn batteries have been used in nonmilitary applications to provide power to aid in the development of commercial equipment have been: (a) Electrically powered vehicles; (b) Remote sensing in nuclear facilities; (c) Special effects equipment for movies; (d) Remote sensing in petroleum pipe lines; (e) Portable computers; (f) Fly by wire systems for commercial aircraft; and (g) Robotics. However none of these applications have progressed to the level where the volume required will significantly lower cost.

A smartphone colorimetric reader integrated with an ambient light sensor and a 3D printed attachment for on-site detection of zearalenone.

PubMed

Chen, Yuan; Fu, Qiangqiang; Li, Dagang; Xie, Jun; Ke, Dongxu; Song, Qifang; Tang, Yong; Wang, Hong

2017-11-01

Smartphone biosensors could be cost-effective, portable instruments to be used for the readout of liquid colorimetric assays. However, current reported smartphone colorimetric readers have relied on photos of liquid assays captured using a camera, and then analyzed using software programs. This approach results in a relatively low accuracy and low generality. In this work, we reported a novel smartphone colorimetric reader that has been integrated with an ambient light sensor and a 3D printed attachment for the readout of liquid colorimetric assays. The portable and low-cost ($0.15) reader utilized a simplified electronic and light path design. Furthermore, our reported smartphone colorimetric reader can be compatible with different smartphones. As a proof of principle, the utility of this device was demonstrated using it in conjunction with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to detect zearalenone. Results were consistent with those obtained using a professional microplate reader. The developed smartphone colorimetric reader was capable of providing scalable, cost-effective, and accurate results for liquid colorimetric assays that related to clinical diagnoses, environment pollution, and food testing. Graphical abstract A novel smartphone colorimetric reader that has been integrated with an ambient light sensor and a 3D printed attachment for the readout of liquid colorimetric assays.

Technology assessment of portable energy RDT and P, phase 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spraul, J. R. (Compiler)

1975-01-01

A technological assessment of portable energy research, development, technology, and production was undertaken to assess the technical, economic, environmental, and sociopolitical issues associated with portable energy options. Those courses of action are discussed which would impact aviation and air transportation research and technology. Technology assessment workshops were held to develop problem statements. The eighteen portable energy problem statements are discussed in detail along with each program's objective, approach, task description, and estimates of time and costs.

Spatial and Temporal Trends of Air Pollutants in the South Coast Basin Using Low Cost Sensors

EPA Science Inventory

The emergence of small, portable, low-cost air sensors has encouraged a shift from traditional monitoring approaches for air quality. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA), in collaboration with the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s (SCAQMD) Air Quality ...

A review on the applications of portable near-infrared spectrometers in the agro-food industry.

PubMed

dos Santos, Cláudia A Teixeira; Lopo, Miguel; Páscoa, Ricardo N M J; Lopes, João A

2013-11-01

Industry has created the need for a cost-effective and nondestructive quality-control analysis system. This requirement has increased interest in near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, leading to the development and marketing of handheld devices that enable new applications that can be implemented in situ. Portable NIR spectrometers are powerful instruments offering several advantages for nondestructive, online, or in situ analysis: small size, low cost, robustness, simplicity of analysis, sample user interface, portability, and ergonomic design. Several studies of on-site NIR applications are presented: characterization of internal and external parameters of fruits and vegetables; conservation state and fat content of meat and fish; distinguishing among and quality evaluation of beverages and dairy products; protein content of cereals; evaluation of grape ripeness in vineyards; and soil analysis. Chemometrics is an essential part of NIR spectroscopy manipulation because wavelength-dependent scattering effects, instrumental noise, ambient effects, and other sources of variability may complicate the spectra. As a consequence, it is difficult to assign specific absorption bands to specific functional groups. To achieve useful and meaningful results, multivariate statistical techniques (essentially involving regression techniques coupled with spectral preprocessing) are therefore required to extract the information hidden in the spectra. This work reviews the evolution of the use of portable near-infrared spectrometers in the agro-food industry.

Low-Hanging Fruit: How Boards Can Improve Education Now through Pedagogy, Portability, and Price

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Peter

2011-01-01

Boards do not have to wait for coming reforms to improve pricing and academic structure for students. They can have a significant impact immediately by making recognized learning portable, simplifying pricing, and reducing costs to students. Developmental education, blended and online learning, and adaptive learning are being touted as…

On Ex Situ NMR: Developing portable low-cost and/or single sided NMR/MRI

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Demas, V; Herberg, J; Maxwell, R

2006-06-09

Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) is of unsurpassed versatility in its ability to non-destructively probe for chemical identity. Portable, low-cost NMR sensors would enable on site identification of potentially hazardous substances, such as signatures from production of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapon agents, narcotics, explosives, toxins, and poisons. There exist however problems that need to be considered in the case of such sensors: (a) small-scale magnets produce inhomogeneous magnetic fields and therefore undesired Larmor frequency distributions that conceal much of the useful spectral information, and (b) sensitivity in most experiments decreases due to the inherently low and strongly inhomogeneous fieldsmore » associated with portable instruments. Our approach is to: (a) try to improve the field of low cost magnets either with hardware (e.g. magnet design and construction of ''shim coils'') or via special pulse sequences, where the field is ''effectively shimmed'' to appear homogeneous to the sample, and (b) to use microcoils to improve sensitivity and to allow focusing in smaller regions and therefore smaller static field variations. We have been working in setting up a table top, 2-Tesla permanent Halbach magnet system for tabletop NMR. The Spectrometer console is a Tecmag Apollo, controlled by a dell notebook. Currently an external linear chemagnetics rf amplifier is being used, though the power requirements for our system are quite low (a few Watts). The Magnetic Resonance lab in LLNL, has developed several types and sizes of microcoils, which have been proven to perform well for NMR experiments. We have evaluated an rf, 360 {micro}m O.D., microcoil probe that was built previously. We have finished mapping the magnetic field of the magnet. In the optimal position (in terms of field quality), the field inhomogeneity was at 17ppm. Preliminary fluorine spectra with a resolved two peak separation have now been obtained. For the field, as mapped, we have initial designs of first degree shimming, or gradient coils (linear correction to the field). We have calculated ''shim pulses'' to effectively shim the mapped field, for ideal gradient coils. These calculations will be repeated after the coils will be built and evaluated.« less

Development of Ultrasound to Measure In-Vivo Dynamic Cervical Spine Intervertebral Disc Mechanics

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-01

Award Number: W81XWH-13-1-0050 TITLE: Development of Ultrasound to Measure In-vivo Dynamic Cervical Spine Intervertebral Disc Mechanics PRINCIPAL...CONTRACT NUMBER W81XWH-13-1-0050 Development of Ultrasound to Measure In-vivo Dynamic Cervical Spine Intervertebral Disc Mechanics 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c...elasticity during compression or tension. As a portable, low cost imaging modality, the dual ultrasound system quantified cervical spine IVD displacement and

Field application of the Numobag as a portable disposable isolation unit and for treating chemical, radiological or biologically induced wounds.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Miller, Keith A.; Felton, Robert; Vaughan, Courtenay Thomas

2005-04-01

Numotech Inc. has developed the Numobag{trademark}, a disposable, lightweight, wound healing device which produces Topical Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (THOT). The Numobag{trademark} is cost effective and has been clinically validated to heal large skin lesions rapidly and has proven to arrest wound advancement from several insidious forms of biological attack including dermal anthrax, small pox, necrotizing fasciitis etc. The Numobag{trademark} can treat mass casualties wounded by chemical/radiological burns or damaging biological exposures. The Numobag{trademark} can be a frontline tool as an isolation unit, reducing cross-contamination and infection of medical personnel. The heightened oxygen content kills organisms on the skin and inmore » the wound, avoids expensive hospital trash disposal procedures, and helps the flesh heal. The Numobag{trademark} requires high purity oxygen. Numotech Inc. is teaming with Sandia National Laboratories and Spektr Conversion in Russia to develop a cost effective, portable, low power oxygen generator.« less

A portable fluorescence detector for fast ultra trace detection of explosive vapors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xin, Yunhong; He, Gang; Wang, Qi; Fang, Yu

2011-10-01

This paper developed a portable detector based on a specific material-based fluorescent sensing film for an ultra trace detection of explosives, such as 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) or its derivate 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT), in ambient air or on objects tainted by explosives. The fluorescent sensing films are based on single-layer chemistry and the signal amplification effect of conjugated polymers, which exhibited higher sensitivity and shorter response time to TNT or DNT at their vapor pressures. Due to application of the light emitting diode and the solid state photomultiplier and the cross-correlation-based circuit design technology, the device has the advantages of low-power, low-cost, small size, and an improved signal to noise ratio. The results of the experiments showed that the detector can real-time detect and identify of explosive vapors at extremely low levels; it is suitable for the identification of suspect luggage, forensic analyses, or battlefields clearing.

A portable fluorescence detector for fast ultra trace detection of explosive vapors.

PubMed

Xin, Yunhong; He, Gang; Wang, Qi; Fang, Yu

2011-10-01

This paper developed a portable detector based on a specific material-based fluorescent sensing film for an ultra trace detection of explosives, such as 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) or its derivate 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT), in ambient air or on objects tainted by explosives. The fluorescent sensing films are based on single-layer chemistry and the signal amplification effect of conjugated polymers, which exhibited higher sensitivity and shorter response time to TNT or DNT at their vapor pressures. Due to application of the light emitting diode and the solid state photomultiplier and the cross-correlation-based circuit design technology, the device has the advantages of low-power, low-cost, small size, and an improved signal to noise ratio. The results of the experiments showed that the detector can real-time detect and identify of explosive vapors at extremely low levels; it is suitable for the identification of suspect luggage, forensic analyses, or battlefields clearing.

Development of inexpensive blood imaging systems: where are we now?

PubMed

Chu, Kaiqin; Smith, Zachary J; Wachsmann-Hogiu, Sebastian

2015-01-01

Clinical applications in the developing world, such as malaria and anemia diagnosis, demand a change in the medical paradigm of expensive care given in central locations by highly trained professionals. There has been a recent explosion in optical technologies entering the consumer market through the widespread adoption of smartphones and LEDs. This technology commoditization has enabled the development of small, portable optical imaging systems at an unprecedentedly low cost. Here, we review the state-of-the-field of the application of these systems for low-cost blood imaging with an emphasis on cellular imaging systems. In addition to some promising results addressing specific clinical issues, an overview of the technology landscape is provided. We also discuss several key issues that need to be addressed before these technologies can be commercialized.

Storage, transmission and distribution of hydrogen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kelley, J. H.; Hagler, R., Jr.

1979-01-01

Current practices and future requirements for the storage, transmission and distribution of hydrogen are reviewed in order to identify inadequacies to be corrected before hydrogen can achieve its full potential as a substitute for fossil fuels. Consideration is given to the storage of hydrogen in underground solution-mined salt caverns, portable high-pressure containers and dewars, pressure vessels and aquifers and as metal hydrides, hydrogen transmission in evacuated double-walled insulated containers and by pipeline, and distribution by truck and internal distribution networks. Areas for the improvement of these techniques are indicated, and these technological deficiencies, including materials development, low-cost storage and transmission methods, low-cost, long-life metal hydrides and novel methods for hydrogen storage, are presented as challenges for research and development.

An easy-to-operate portable pulse-height analysis system for area monitoring with TEPC in radiation protection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kunz, A.; Pihet, P.; Arend, E.; Menzel, H. G.

1990-12-01

A portable area monitor for the measurement of dose-equivalent quantities in practical radiation-protection work has been developed. The detector applied is a low-pressure proportional counter (TEPC) used in microdosimetry. The complex analysis system required has been optimized with regard to low power consumption and small size to achieve a real operational survey meter. The newly designed electronic includes complete analog, digital and microprocessor boards. It presents the characteristic of fast pulse-height processing over a large (5 decades) dynamic range. Three original circuits have been specifically developed, consisting of: (1) a miniaturized adjustable high-voltage power supply with low ripple and high stability; (2) a double spectroscopy amplifier with constant gain ratio and common pole-zero stage; and (3) an analog-to-digital converter with quasi-logarithmic characteristics based on a flash converter using fast comparators associated in parallel. With the incorporated single-board computer, the maximal total power consumption is 5 W, enabling 40 hours operation time with batteries. With minor adaptations the equipment is proposed as a low-cost solution for various measuring problems in environmental studies.

Monolithically interconnected GaAs solar cells: A new interconnection technology for high voltage solar cell output

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dinetta, L. C.; Hannon, M. H.

1995-10-01

Photovoltaic linear concentrator arrays can benefit from high performance solar cell technologies being developed at AstroPower. Specifically, these are the integration of thin GaAs solar cell and epitaxial lateral overgrowth technologies with the application of monolithically interconnected solar cell (MISC) techniques. This MISC array has several advantages which make it ideal for space concentrator systems. These are high system voltage, reliable low cost monolithically formed interconnections, design flexibility, costs that are independent of array voltage, and low power loss from shorts, opens, and impact damage. This concentrator solar cell will incorporate the benefits of light trapping by growing the device active layers over a low-cost, simple, PECVD deposited silicon/silicon dioxide Bragg reflector. The high voltage-low current output results in minimal 12R losses while properly designing the device allows for minimal shading and resistance losses. It is possible to obtain open circuit voltages as high as 67 volts/cm of solar cell length with existing technology. The projected power density for the high performance device is 5 kW/m for an AMO efficiency of 26% at 1 5X. Concentrator solar cell arrays are necessary to meet the power requirements of specific mission platforms and can supply high voltage power for electric propulsion systems. It is anticipated that the high efficiency, GaAs monolithically interconnected linear concentrator solar cell array will enjoy widespread application for space based solar power needs. Additional applications include remote man-portable or ultra-light unmanned air vehicle (UAV) power supplies where high power per area, high radiation hardness and a high bus voltage or low bus current are important. The monolithic approach has a number of inherent advantages, including reduced cost per interconnect and increased reliability of array connections. There is also a high potential for a large number of consumer products. Dual-use applications can include battery chargers and remote power supplies for consumer electronics products such as portable telephones/beepers, portable radios, CD players, dashboard radar detectors, remote walkway lighting, etc.

Monolithically interconnected GaAs solar cells: A new interconnection technology for high voltage solar cell output

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dinetta, L. C.; Hannon, M. H.

1995-01-01

Photovoltaic linear concentrator arrays can benefit from high performance solar cell technologies being developed at AstroPower. Specifically, these are the integration of thin GaAs solar cell and epitaxial lateral overgrowth technologies with the application of monolithically interconnected solar cell (MISC) techniques. This MISC array has several advantages which make it ideal for space concentrator systems. These are high system voltage, reliable low cost monolithically formed interconnections, design flexibility, costs that are independent of array voltage, and low power loss from shorts, opens, and impact damage. This concentrator solar cell will incorporate the benefits of light trapping by growing the device active layers over a low-cost, simple, PECVD deposited silicon/silicon dioxide Bragg reflector. The high voltage-low current output results in minimal 12R losses while properly designing the device allows for minimal shading and resistance losses. It is possible to obtain open circuit voltages as high as 67 volts/cm of solar cell length with existing technology. The projected power density for the high performance device is 5 kW/m for an AMO efficiency of 26% at 1 5X. Concentrator solar cell arrays are necessary to meet the power requirements of specific mission platforms and can supply high voltage power for electric propulsion systems. It is anticipated that the high efficiency, GaAs monolithically interconnected linear concentrator solar cell array will enjoy widespread application for space based solar power needs. Additional applications include remote man-portable or ultra-light unmanned air vehicle (UAV) power supplies where high power per area, high radiation hardness and a high bus voltage or low bus current are important. The monolithic approach has a number of inherent advantages, including reduced cost per interconnect and increased reliability of array connections. There is also a high potential for a large number of consumer products. Dual-use applications can include battery chargers and remote power supplies for consumer electronics products such as portable telephones/beepers, portable radios, CD players, dashboard radar detectors, remote walkway lighting, etc.

Design of a cardiac monitor in terms of parameters of QRS complex.

PubMed

Chen, Zhen-cheng; Ni, Li-li; Su, Ke-ping; Wang, Hong-yan; Jiang, Da-zong

2002-08-01

Objective. To design a portable cardiac monitor system based on the available ordinary ECG machine and works on the basis of QRS parameters. Method. The 80196 single chip microcomputer was used as the central microprocessor and real time electrocardiac signal was collected and analyzed [correction of analysized] in the system. Result. Apart from the performance of an ordinary monitor, this machine possesses also the following functions: arrhythmia analysis, HRV analysis, alarm, freeze, and record of automatic papering. Convenient in carrying, the system is powered by AC or DC sources. Stability, low power and low cost are emphasized in the hardware design; and modularization method is applied in software design. Conclusion. Popular in usage and low cost made the portable monitor system suitable for use under simple conditions.

Low-Cost Charged-Coupled Device (CCD) Based Detectors for Shiga Toxins Activity Analysis.

PubMed

Rasooly, Reuven; Prickril, Ben; Bruck, Hugh A; Rasooly, Avraham

2017-01-01

To improve food safety there is a need to develop simple, low-cost sensitive devices for detection of food-borne pathogens and their toxins. We describe a simple, low-cost webcam-based detector which can be used for various optical detection modalities, including fluorescence, chemiluminescence, densitometry, and colorimetric assays. The portable battery-operated CCD-based detection system consists of four modules: (1) a webcam to measure and record light emission, (2) a sample plate to perform assays, (3) a light emitting diode (LED) for illumination, and (4) a portable computer to acquire and analyze images. To demonstrate the technology, we used a cell based assay for fluorescence detection of the activity of the food borne Shiga toxin type 2 (Stx2), differentiating between biologically active toxin and inactive toxin which is not a risk. The assay is based on Shiga toxin inhibition of cell protein synthesis measured through inhibition of the green fluorescent protein (GFP). In this assay, GFP emits light at 509 nm when excited with a blue LED equipped with a filter at 486 nm. The emitted light is then detected with a green filter at 535 nm. Toxin activity is measured through a reduction in the 509 nm emission. In this system the level of detection (LOD) for Stx2 was 0.1 pg/ml, similar to the LOD of commercial fluorometers. These results demonstrate the utility and potential of low cost detectors for toxin activity. This approach could be readily adapted to the detection of other food-borne toxins.

Electrochemical detection for microscale analytical systems: a review.

PubMed

Wang, Joseph

2002-02-11

As the field of chip-based microscale systems continues its rapid growth, there are urgent needs for developing compatible detection modes. Electrochemistry detection offers considerable promise for such microfluidic systems, with features that include remarkable sensitivity, inherent miniaturization and portability, independence of optical path length or sample turbidity, low cost, low-power requirements and high compatibility with advanced micromachining and microfabrication technologies. This paper highlights recent advances, directions and key strategies in controlled-potential electrochemical detectors for miniaturized analytical systems. Subjects covered include the design and integration of the electrochemical detection system, its requirements and operational principles, common electrode materials, derivatization reactions, electrical-field decouplers, typical applications and future prospects. It is expected that electrochemical detection will become a powerful tool for microscale analytical systems and will facilitate the creation of truly portable (and possibly disposable) devices.

Appdaptivity: An Internet of Things Device-Decoupled System for Portable Applications in Changing Contexts

PubMed Central

Díaz, Manuel; Rubio, Bartolomé; Van den Abeele, Floris

2018-01-01

Currently, applications in the Internet of Things (IoT) are tightly coupled to the underlying physical devices. As a consequence, upon adding a device, device replacement or user’s relocation to a different physical space, application developers have to re-perform installation and configuration processes to reconfigure applications, which bears costs in time and knowledge of low-level details. In the emerging IoT field, this issue is even more challenging due to its current unpredictable growth in term of applications and connected devices. In addition, IoT applications can be personalised to each end user and can be present in different environments. As a result, IoT scenarios are very changeable, presenting a challenge for IoT applications. In this paper we present Appdaptivity, a system that enables the development of portable device-decoupled applications that can be adapted to changing contexts. Through Appdaptivity, application developers can intuitively create portable and personalised applications, disengaging from the underlying physical infrastructure. Results confirms a good scalability of the system in terms of connected users and components involved. PMID:29701698

Appdaptivity: An Internet of Things Device-Decoupled System for Portable Applications in Changing Contexts.

PubMed

Martín, Cristian; Hoebeke, Jeroen; Rossey, Jen; Díaz, Manuel; Rubio, Bartolomé; Van den Abeele, Floris

2018-04-26

Currently, applications in the Internet of Things (IoT) are tightly coupled to the underlying physical devices. As a consequence, upon adding a device, device replacement or user’s relocation to a different physical space, application developers have to re-perform installation and configuration processes to reconfigure applications, which bears costs in time and knowledge of low-level details. In the emerging IoT field, this issue is even more challenging due to its current unpredictable growth in term of applications and connected devices. In addition, IoT applications can be personalised to each end user and can be present in different environments. As a result, IoT scenarios are very changeable, presenting a challenge for IoT applications. In this paper we present Appdaptivity, a system that enables the development of portable device-decoupled applications that can be adapted to changing contexts. Through Appdaptivity, application developers can intuitively create portable and personalised applications, disengaging from the underlying physical infrastructure. Results confirms a good scalability of the system in terms of connected users and components involved.

Portable Instrument to Measure CDOM Light Absorption in Aquatic Systems: WPI Success Story

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2001-01-01

World Precision Instruments, Inc. (WPI), of Sarasota, FL, in collaboration with NASA's John C. Stennis Space Center, has developed an innovative instrument to accurately measure Colored Dissolved Organic Matter (CDOM) absorption in the field. This successful collaboration has culminated in an exciting new device, called the UltraPath, now commercially available through WPI. Traditional methods of measuring absorption of dissolved materials require special handling and storage prior to measurement. Use of laboratory spectrophotometers as the measuring devices have proven time consuming, cumbersome, and delicate to handle. The UltraPath provides a low-cost, highly sensitive, rugged, portable system that is capable of high sensitivity measurements in widely divergent waters.

Low-cost chlorophyll meter (LCCM): portable measuring device for leaf chlorophyll

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hutomo E. P., Evan; Adibawa, Marcelinus Alfasisurya S.; Prilianti, Kestrilia R.; Heriyanto, Heriyanto; Brotosudarmo, Tatas H. P.

2016-11-01

Portable leaf chlorophyll meter, named low-cost chlorophyll meter (LCCM), has been created. This device was created to help farmer determining the health condition of plant based on the greenness level of leaf surface. According to previous studies, leaf greenness with a certain amount of chlorophyll level has a direct correlation with the amount of nitrogen in the leaf that indicates health of the plant and this fact needed to provide an estimate of further measures to keep the plants healthy. Device that enables to measure the leaf color change is soil plant analysis development (SPAD) meter 502 from Konica Minolta but it is relatively expensive. To answer the need of low-cost chlorophyll scanner device, this research conducted experiment using light reflectance as the base mechanism. Reflectance system from LCCM consists of near-infrared light emitting diode (LED) and red LED as light resources and photodiode. The output from both of light resources calculated using normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) formula as the results fetched and displayed on the smartphone application using Bluetooth communication protocol. Finally, the scanner has been made as well as the Android application named NDVI Reader. The LCCM system which has been tested on 20 sample of cassava leaf with SPAD meter as a variable control showed coefficient of determination 0.9681 and root-mean-square error (RMSE) 0.014.

A portable, low-cost flight-data measurement and recording system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, R. J.

1982-01-01

The design of and the experience with an inexpensive, hand-portable, onboard data system used to record four parameters in the final portion of the landing approach and touchdown of an airplane are described. The system utilized a high-quality audio tape recorder and amateur photographic equipment with accessory circuitry rather than specialized instrumentation to given satisfactory results.

Pulsed laser diode photoacoustic tomography (PLD-PAT) system for fast in vivo imaging of small animal brain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Upputuri, Paul Kumar; Kalva, Sandeep Kumar; Moothanchery, Mohesh; Pramanik, Manojit

2017-03-01

In recent years, high-repetition rate pulsed laser diode (PLD) was used as an alternative to the Nd:YAG lasers for photoacoustic tomography (PAT). The use of PLD makes the overall PAT system, a low-cost, portable, and high frame rate imaging tool for preclinical applications. In this work, we will present a portable in vivo pulsed laser diode based photoacoustic tomography (PLD-PAT) system. The PLD is integrated inside a circular scanning geometry. The PLD can provide near-infrared ( 803 nm) pulses with pulse duration 136 ns, and pulse energy 1.4 mJ / pulse at 7 kHz repetition rate. The system will be demonstrated for in vivo fast imaging of small animal brain. To enhance the contrast of brain imaging, experiments will be carried out using contrast agents which have strong absorption around laser excitation wavelength. This low-cost, portable small animal brain imaging system could be very useful for brain tumor imaging and therapy.

High performance 3D adaptive filtering for DSP based portable medical imaging systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bockenbach, Olivier; Ali, Murtaza; Wainwright, Ian; Nadeski, Mark

2015-03-01

Portable medical imaging devices have proven valuable for emergency medical services both in the field and hospital environments and are becoming more prevalent in clinical settings where the use of larger imaging machines is impractical. Despite their constraints on power, size and cost, portable imaging devices must still deliver high quality images. 3D adaptive filtering is one of the most advanced techniques aimed at noise reduction and feature enhancement, but is computationally very demanding and hence often cannot be run with sufficient performance on a portable platform. In recent years, advanced multicore digital signal processors (DSP) have been developed that attain high processing performance while maintaining low levels of power dissipation. These processors enable the implementation of complex algorithms on a portable platform. In this study, the performance of a 3D adaptive filtering algorithm on a DSP is investigated. The performance is assessed by filtering a volume of size 512x256x128 voxels sampled at a pace of 10 MVoxels/sec with an Ultrasound 3D probe. Relative performance and power is addressed between a reference PC (Quad Core CPU) and a TMS320C6678 DSP from Texas Instruments.

Biosensors and bioelectronics on smartphone for portable biochemical detection.

PubMed

Zhang, Diming; Liu, Qingjun

2016-01-15

Smartphone has been widely integrated with sensors, such as test strips, sensor chips, and hand-held detectors, for biochemical detections due to its portability and ubiquitous availability. Utilizing built-in function modules, smartphone is often employed as controller, analyzer, and displayer for rapid, real-time, and point-of-care monitoring, which can significantly simplify design and reduce cost of the detecting systems. This paper presents a review of biosensors and bioelectronics on smartphone for portable biochemical detections. The biosensors and bioelectronics based on smartphone can mainly be classified into biosensors using optics, surface plasmon resonance, electrochemistry, and near-field communication. The developments of these biosensors and bioelectronics on smartphone are reviewed along with typical biochemical detecting cases. Sensor strategies, detector attachments, and coupling methods are highlighted to show designs of the compact, lightweight, and low-cost sensor systems. The performances and advantages of these designs are introduced with their applications in healthcare diagnosis, environment monitoring, and food evaluation. With advances in micro-manufacture, sensor technology, and miniaturized electronics, biosensor and bioelectronic devices on smartphone can be used to perform biochemical detections as common and convenient as electronic tag readout in foreseeable future. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Portable Virtual Training Units

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Malone, Reagan; Johnston, Alan

2015-01-01

The Mission Operations Lab initiated a project to design, develop, deliver, test, and validate a unique training system for astronaut and ground support personnel. In an effort to keep training costs low, virtual training units (VTUs) have been designed based on images of actual hardware and manipulated by a touch screen style interface for ground support personnel training. This project helped modernized the training system and materials by integrating them with mobile devices for training when operators or crew are unavailable to physically train in the facility. This project also tested the concept of a handheld remote device to control integrated trainers using International Space Station (ISS) training simulators as a platform. The portable VTU can interface with the full-sized VTU, allowing a trainer co-located with a trainee to remotely manipulate a VTU and evaluate a trainee's response. This project helped determine if it is useful, cost effective, and beneficial for the instructor to have a portable handheld device to control the behavior of the models during training. This project has advanced NASA Marshall Space Flight Center's (MSFC's) VTU capabilities with modern and relevant technology to support space flight training needs of today and tomorrow.

Technologies for Detecting Falsified and Substandard Drugs in Low and Middle-Income Countries

PubMed Central

Kovacs, Stephanie; Hawes, Stephen E.; Maley, Stephen N.; Mosites, Emily; Wong, Ling; Stergachis, Andy

2014-01-01

Falsified and substandard drugs are a global health problem, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) that have weak pharmacovigilance and drug regulatory systems. Poor quality medicines have important health consequences, including the potential for treatment failure, development of antimicrobial resistance, and serious adverse drug reactions, increasing healthcare costs and undermining the public's confidence in healthcare systems. This article presents a review of the methods employed for the analysis of pharmaceutical formulations. Technologies for detecting substandard and falsified drugs were identified primarily through literature reviews. Key-informant interviews with experts augmented our methods when warranted. In order to aid comparisons, technologies were assigned a suitability score for use in LMIC ranging from 0–8. Scores measured the need for electricity, need for sample preparation, need for reagents, portability, level of training required, and speed of analysis. Technologies with higher scores were deemed the most feasible in LMICs. We categorized technologies that cost $10,000 USD or less as low cost, $10,000–100,000 USD as medium cost and those greater than $100,000 USD as high cost technologies (all prices are 2013 USD). This search strategy yielded information on 42 unique technologies. Five technologies were deemed both low cost and had feasibility scores between 6–8, and an additional four technologies had medium cost and high feasibility. Twelve technologies were deemed portable and therefore could be used in the field. Many technologies can aid in the detection of substandard and falsified drugs that vary from the simplest of checklists for packaging to the most complex mass spectrometry analyses. Although there is no single technology that can serve all the requirements of detecting falsified and substandard drugs, there is an opportunity to bifurcate the technologies into specific niches to address specific sections within the workflow process of detecting products. PMID:24671033

Self-powered integrated microfluidic point-of-care low-cost enabling (SIMPLE) chip

PubMed Central

Yeh, Erh-Chia; Fu, Chi-Cheng; Hu, Lucy; Thakur, Rohan; Feng, Jeffrey; Lee, Luke P.

2017-01-01

Portable, low-cost, and quantitative nucleic acid detection is desirable for point-of-care diagnostics; however, current polymerase chain reaction testing often requires time-consuming multiple steps and costly equipment. We report an integrated microfluidic diagnostic device capable of on-site quantitative nucleic acid detection directly from the blood without separate sample preparation steps. First, we prepatterned the amplification initiator [magnesium acetate (MgOAc)] on the chip to enable digital nucleic acid amplification. Second, a simplified sample preparation step is demonstrated, where the plasma is separated autonomously into 224 microwells (100 nl per well) without any hemolysis. Furthermore, self-powered microfluidic pumping without any external pumps, controllers, or power sources is accomplished by an integrated vacuum battery on the chip. This simple chip allows rapid quantitative digital nucleic acid detection directly from human blood samples (10 to 105 copies of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus DNA per microliter, ~30 min, via isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification). These autonomous, portable, lab-on-chip technologies provide promising foundations for future low-cost molecular diagnostic assays. PMID:28345028

Portable retinal imaging for eye disease screening using a consumer-grade digital camera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barriga, Simon; Larichev, Andrey; Zamora, Gilberto; Soliz, Peter

2012-03-01

The development of affordable means to image the retina is an important step toward the implementation of eye disease screening programs. In this paper we present the i-RxCam, a low-cost, hand-held, retinal camera for widespread applications such as tele-retinal screening for eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy (DR), glaucoma, and age-related ocular diseases. Existing portable retinal imagers do not meet the requirements of a low-cost camera with sufficient technical capabilities (field of view, image quality, portability, battery power, and ease-of-use) to be distributed widely to low volume clinics, such as the offices of single primary care physicians serving rural communities. The i-RxCam uses a Nikon D3100 digital camera body. The camera has a CMOS sensor with 14.8 million pixels. We use a 50mm focal lens that gives a retinal field of view of 45 degrees. The internal autofocus can compensate for about 2D (diopters) of focusing error. The light source is an LED produced by Philips with a linear emitting area that is transformed using a light pipe to the optimal shape at the eye pupil, an annulus. To eliminate corneal reflex we use a polarization technique in which the light passes through a nano-wire polarizer plate. This is a novel type of polarizer featuring high polarization separation (contrast ratio of more than 1000) and very large acceptance angle (>45 degrees). The i-RxCam approach will yield a significantly more economical retinal imaging device that would allow mass screening of the at-risk population.

Portable power source needs of the future Army -- Batteries and fuel cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jacobs, R.; Christopher, H.; Hamlen, R.

This paper describes the US Army`s future needs for silent portable power in the area of batteries and fuel cells. These needs will continue to increase as a result of the introduction of newer types of equipment, the increasing digitization of the battlefield, and future integrated Soldier Systems. Current battery programs are aimed at improved, low-cost primary batteries, and rechargeable batteries with increased energy densities. The Army fuel cell program aimed at portable systems capable of the order of 150W is also described.

Low-cost computer mouse for the elderly or disabled in Taiwan.

PubMed

Chen, C-C; Chen, W-L; Chen, B-N; Shih, Y-Y; Lai, J-S; Chen, Y-L

2014-01-01

A mouse is an important communication interface between a human and a computer, but it is still difficult to use for the elderly or disabled. To develop a low-cost computer mouse auxiliary tool. The principal structure of the low-cost mouse auxiliary tool is the IR (infrared ray) array module and the Wii icon sensor module, which combine with reflective tape and the SQL Server database. This has several benefits including cheap hardware cost, fluent control, prompt response, adaptive adjustment and portability. Also, it carries the game module with the function of training and evaluation; to the trainee, it is really helpful to upgrade the sensitivity of consciousness/sense and the centralization of attention. The intervention phase/maintenance phase, with regard to clicking accuracy and use of time, p value (p< 0.05) reach the level of significance. The development of the low cost adaptive computer mouse auxiliary tool was completed during the study and was also verified as having the characteristics of low cost, easy operation and the adaptability. To patients with physical disabilities, if they have independent control action parts of their limbs, the mouse auxiliary tool is suitable for them to use, i.e. the user only needs to paste the reflective tape by the independent control action parts of the body to operate the mouse auxiliary tool.

Development and flight test of a helicopter compact, portable, precision landing system concept

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clary, G. R.; Bull, J. S.; Davis, T. J.; Chisholm, J. P.

1984-01-01

An airborne, radar-based, precision approach concept is being developed and flight tested as a part of NASA's Rotorcraft All-Weather Operations Research Program. A transponder-based beacon landing system (BLS) applying state-of-the-art X-band radar technology and digital processing techniques, was built and is being flight tested to demonstrate the concept feasibility. The BLS airborne hardware consists of an add-on microprocessor, installed in conjunction with the aircraft weather/mapping radar, which analyzes the radar beacon receiver returns and determines range, localizer deviation, and glide-slope deviation. The ground station is an inexpensive, portable unit which can be quickly deployed at a landing site. Results from the flight test program show that the BLS concept has a significant potential for providing rotorcraft with low-cost, precision instrument approach capability in remote areas.

[Extension of cardiac monitoring function by used of ordinary ECG machine].

PubMed

Chen, Zhencheng; Jiang, Yong; Ni, Lili; Wang, Hongyan

2002-06-01

This paper deals with a portable monitor system on liquid crystal display (LCD) based on this available ordinary ECG machine, which is low power and suitable for China's specific condition. Apart from developing the overall scheme of the system, this paper also has completed the design of the hardware and the software. The 80c196 single chip microcomputer is taken as the central microprocessor and real time electrocardiac single is data treated and analyzed in the system. With the performance of ordinary monitor, this machine also possesses the following functions: five types of arrhythmia analysis, alarm, freeze, and record of automatic pappering, convenient in carrying, with alternate-current (AC) or direct-current (DC) powered. The hardware circuit is simplified and the software structure is optimized in this paper. Multiple low power designs and LCD unit design are adopted and completed in it. Popular in usage, low in cost price, the portable monitor system will have a valuable influence on China's monitor system field.

Size-selective sampling performance of six low-volume “total” suspended particulate (TSP) inlets

EPA Science Inventory

Several low-volume inlets (flow rates ≤ 16.7 liters per minute (Lpm)) are commercially available as components of low-cost, portable ambient particulate matter samplers. Because the inlets themselves do not contain internal fractionators, they are often assumed to representati...

Battery-operated, portable, and flexible air microplasma generation device for fabrication of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices on demand.

PubMed

Kao, Peng-Kai; Hsu, Cheng-Che

2014-09-02

A portable microplasma generation device (MGD) operated in ambient air is introduced for making a microfluidic paper-based analytical device (μPAD) that serves as a primary healthcare platform. By utilizing a printed circuit board fabrication process, a flexible and lightweight MGD can be fabricated within 30 min with ultra low-cost. This MGD can be driven by a portable power supply (less than two pounds), which can be powered using 12 V-batteries or ac-dc converters. This MGD is used to perform maskless patterning of hydrophilic patterns with sub-millimeter spatial resolution on hydrophobic paper substrates with good pattern transfer fidelity. Using this MGD to fabricate μPADs is demonstrated. With a proper design of the MGD electrode geometry, μPADs with 500-μm-wide flow channels can be fabricated within 1 min and with a cost of less than $USD 0.05/device. We then test the μPADs by performing quantitative colorimetric assay tests and establish a calibration curve for detection of glucose and nitrite. The results show a linear response to a glucose assay for 1-50 mM and a nitrite assay for 0.1-5 mM. The low cost, miniaturized, and portable MGD can be used to fabricate μPADs on demand, which is suitable for in-field diagnostic tests. We believe this concept brings impact to the field of biomedical analysis, environmental monitoring, and food safety survey.

Regulatory Considerations of Lower Cost Air Pollution Sensor Data Performance

EPA Science Inventory

Low-cost, portable air quality sensors could be the next generation of air monitoring, however, this nascent technology is not without risk. This article looks at how the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uses air monitoring data, the procedures followed to ensure and a...

A microfabricated, low dark current a-Se detector for measurement of microplasma optical emission in the UV for possible use on-site

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abbaszadeh, Shiva; Karim, Karim S.; Karanassios, Vassili

2013-05-01

Traditionally, samples are collected on-site (i.e., in the field) and are shipped to a lab for chemical analysis. An alternative is offered by using portable chemical analysis instruments that can be used on-site (i.e., in the field). Many analytical measurements by optical emission spectrometry require use of light-sources and of spectral lines that are in the Ultra-Violet (UV, ~200 nm - 400 nm wavelength) region of the spectrum. For such measurements, a portable, battery-operated, fiber-optic spectrometer equipped with an un-cooled, linear, solid-state detector may be used. To take full advantage of the advanced measurement capabilities offered by state-of-the-art solid-state detectors, cooling of the detector is required. But cooling and other thermal management hamper portability and use on-site because they add size and weight and they increase electrical power requirements. To address these considerations, an alternative was implemented, as described here. Specifically, a microfabricated solid-state detector for measurement of UV photons will be described. Unlike solid-state detectors developed on crystalline Silicon, this miniaturized and low-cost detector utilizes amorphous Selenium (a-Se) as its photosensitive material. Due to its low dark current, this detector does not require cooling, thus it is better suited for portable use and for chemical measurements on-site. In this paper, a microplasma will be used as a light-source of UV photons for the a-Se detector. For example, spectra acquired using a microplasma as a light-source will be compared with those obtained with a portable, fiber-optic spectrometer equipped with a Si-based 2080-element detector. And, analytical performance obtained by introducing ng-amounts of analytes into the microplasma will be described.

Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) for in vitro diagnostic testing at the point of care

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marks, Haley; Schechinger, Monika; Garza, Javier; Locke, Andrea; Coté, Gerard

2017-06-01

Point-of-care (POC) device development is a growing field that aims to develop low-cost, rapid, sensitive in-vitro diagnostic testing platforms that are portable, self-contained, and can be used anywhere - from modern clinics to remote and low resource areas. In this review, surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is discussed as a solution to facilitating the translation of bioanalytical sensing to the POC. The potential for SERS to meet the widely accepted "ASSURED" (Affordable, Sensitive, Specific, User-friendly, Rapid, Equipment-free, and Deliverable) criterion provided by the World Health Organization is discussed based on recent advances in SERS in vitro assay development. As SERS provides attractive characteristics for multiplexed sensing at low concentration limits with a high degree of specificity, it holds great promise for enhancing current efforts in rapid diagnostic testing. In outlining the progression of SERS techniques over the past years combined with recent developments in smart nanomaterials, high-throughput microfluidics, and low-cost paper diagnostics, an extensive number of new possibilities show potential for translating SERS biosensors to the POC.

Choosing MUSE: Validation of a Low-Cost, Portable EEG System for ERP Research

PubMed Central

Krigolson, Olave E.; Williams, Chad C.; Norton, Angela; Hassall, Cameron D.; Colino, Francisco L.

2017-01-01

In recent years there has been an increase in the number of portable low-cost electroencephalographic (EEG) systems available to researchers. However, to date the validation of the use of low-cost EEG systems has focused on continuous recording of EEG data and/or the replication of large system EEG setups reliant on event-markers to afford examination of event-related brain potentials (ERP). Here, we demonstrate that it is possible to conduct ERP research without being reliant on event markers using a portable MUSE EEG system and a single computer. Specifically, we report the results of two experiments using data collected with the MUSE EEG system—one using the well-known visual oddball paradigm and the other using a standard reward-learning task. Our results demonstrate that we could observe and quantify the N200 and P300 ERP components in the visual oddball task and the reward positivity (the mirror opposite component to the feedback-related negativity) in the reward-learning task. Specifically, single sample t-tests of component existence (all p's < 0.05), computation of Bayesian credible intervals, and 95% confidence intervals all statistically verified the existence of the N200, P300, and reward positivity in all analyses. We provide with this research paper an open source website with all the instructions, methods, and software to replicate our findings and to provide researchers with an easy way to use the MUSE EEG system for ERP research. Importantly, our work highlights that with a single computer and a portable EEG system such as the MUSE one can conduct ERP research with ease thus greatly extending the possible use of the ERP methodology to a variety of novel contexts. PMID:28344546

Choosing MUSE: Validation of a Low-Cost, Portable EEG System for ERP Research.

PubMed

Krigolson, Olave E; Williams, Chad C; Norton, Angela; Hassall, Cameron D; Colino, Francisco L

2017-01-01

In recent years there has been an increase in the number of portable low-cost electroencephalographic (EEG) systems available to researchers. However, to date the validation of the use of low-cost EEG systems has focused on continuous recording of EEG data and/or the replication of large system EEG setups reliant on event-markers to afford examination of event-related brain potentials (ERP). Here, we demonstrate that it is possible to conduct ERP research without being reliant on event markers using a portable MUSE EEG system and a single computer. Specifically, we report the results of two experiments using data collected with the MUSE EEG system-one using the well-known visual oddball paradigm and the other using a standard reward-learning task. Our results demonstrate that we could observe and quantify the N200 and P300 ERP components in the visual oddball task and the reward positivity (the mirror opposite component to the feedback-related negativity) in the reward-learning task. Specifically, single sample t -tests of component existence (all p 's < 0.05), computation of Bayesian credible intervals, and 95% confidence intervals all statistically verified the existence of the N200, P300, and reward positivity in all analyses. We provide with this research paper an open source website with all the instructions, methods, and software to replicate our findings and to provide researchers with an easy way to use the MUSE EEG system for ERP research. Importantly, our work highlights that with a single computer and a portable EEG system such as the MUSE one can conduct ERP research with ease thus greatly extending the possible use of the ERP methodology to a variety of novel contexts.

A systematic review of portable electronic technology for health education in resource-limited settings.

PubMed

McHenry, Megan S; Fischer, Lydia J; Chun, Yeona; Vreeman, Rachel C

2017-08-01

The objective of this study is to conduct a systematic review of the literature of how portable electronic technologies with offline functionality are perceived and used to provide health education in resource-limited settings. Three reviewers evaluated articles and performed a bibliography search to identify studies describing health education delivered by portable electronic device with offline functionality in low- or middle-income countries. Data extracted included: study population; study design and type of analysis; type of technology used; method of use; setting of technology use; impact on caregivers, patients, or overall health outcomes; and reported limitations. Searches yielded 5514 unique titles. Out of 75 critically reviewed full-text articles, 10 met inclusion criteria. Study locations included Botswana, Peru, Kenya, Thailand, Nigeria, India, Ghana, and Tanzania. Topics addressed included: development of healthcare worker training modules, clinical decision support tools, patient education tools, perceptions and usability of portable electronic technology, and comparisons of technologies and/or mobile applications. Studies primarily looked at the assessment of developed educational modules on trainee health knowledge, perceptions and usability of technology, and comparisons of technologies. Overall, studies reported positive results for portable electronic device-based health education, frequently reporting increased provider/patient knowledge, improved patient outcomes in both quality of care and management, increased provider comfort level with technology, and an environment characterized by increased levels of technology-based, informal learning situations. Negative assessments included high investment costs, lack of technical support, and fear of device theft. While the research is limited, portable electronic educational resources present promising avenues to increase access to effective health education in resource-limited settings, contingent on the development of culturally adapted and functional materials to be used on such devices.

A portable low-cost long-term live-cell imaging platform for biomedical research and education.

PubMed

Walzik, Maria P; Vollmar, Verena; Lachnit, Theresa; Dietz, Helmut; Haug, Susanne; Bachmann, Holger; Fath, Moritz; Aschenbrenner, Daniel; Abolpour Mofrad, Sepideh; Friedrich, Oliver; Gilbert, Daniel F

2015-02-15

Time-resolved visualization and analysis of slow dynamic processes in living cells has revolutionized many aspects of in vitro cellular studies. However, existing technology applied to time-resolved live-cell microscopy is often immobile, costly and requires a high level of skill to use and maintain. These factors limit its utility to field research and educational purposes. The recent availability of rapid prototyping technology makes it possible to quickly and easily engineer purpose-built alternatives to conventional research infrastructure which are low-cost and user-friendly. In this paper we describe the prototype of a fully automated low-cost, portable live-cell imaging system for time-resolved label-free visualization of dynamic processes in living cells. The device is light-weight (3.6 kg), small (22 × 22 × 22 cm) and extremely low-cost (<€1250). We demonstrate its potential for biomedical use by long-term imaging of recombinant HEK293 cells at varying culture conditions and validate its ability to generate time-resolved data of high quality allowing for analysis of time-dependent processes in living cells. While this work focuses on long-term imaging of mammalian cells, the presented technology could also be adapted for use with other biological specimen and provides a general example of rapidly prototyped low-cost biosensor technology for application in life sciences and education. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A Compact and Low Cost Electronic Nose for Aroma Detection

PubMed Central

Macías, Miguel Macías; Agudo, J. Enrique; Manso, Antonio García; Orellana, Carlos Javier García; Velasco, Horacio Manuel González; Caballero, Ramón Gallardo

2013-01-01

This article explains the development of a prototype of a portable and a very low-cost electronic nose based on an mbed microcontroller. Mbeds are a series of ARM microcontroller development boards designed for fast, flexible and rapid prototyping. The electronic nose is comprised of an mbed, an LCD display, two small pumps, two electro-valves and a sensor chamber with four TGS Figaro gas sensors. The performance of the electronic nose has been tested by measuring the ethanol content of wine synthetic matrices and special attention has been paid to the reproducibility and repeatability of the measurements taken on different days. Results show that the electronic nose with a neural network classifier is able to discriminate wine samples with 10, 12 and 14% V/V alcohol content with a classification error of less than 1%. PMID:23698265

A 3D-Printed, Portable, Optical-Sensing Platform for Smartphones Capable of Detecting the Herbicide 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid.

PubMed

Wang, Yijia; Zeinhom, Mohamed M A; Yang, Mingming; Sun, Rongrong; Wang, Shengfu; Smith, Jordan N; Timchalk, Charles; Li, Lei; Lin, Yuehe; Du, Dan

2017-09-05

Onsite rapid detection of herbicides and herbicide residuals in environmental and biological specimens are important for agriculture, environmental concerns, food safety, and health care. The traditional method for herbicide detection requires expensive laboratory equipment and a long turnaround time. In this work, we developed a single-stripe microliter plate smartphone-based colorimetric device for rapid and low-cost in-field tests. This portable smartphone platform is capable of screening eight samples in a single-stripe microplate. The device combined the advantages of small size (50 × 100 × 160 mm 3 ) and low cost ($10). The platform was calibrated by using two different dye solutions, i.e. methyl blue (MB) and rhodamine B, for the red and green channels. The results showed good correlation with results attained from a traditional laboratory reader. We demonstrated the application of this platform for detection of the herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid in the range of 1 to 80 ppb. Spiked samples of tap water, rat serum, plasma, and human serum were tested by our device. Recoveries obtained varied from 95.6% to 105.2% for all of the spiked samples using the microplate reader and from 93.7% to 106.9% for all of the samples using the smartphone device. This work validated that the smartphone optical-sensing platform is comparable to the commercial microplate reader; it is eligible for onsite, rapid, and low-cost detection of herbicides for environmental evaluation and biological monitoring.

A 3D-Printed, Portable, Optical-Sensing Platform for Smartphones Capable of Detecting the Herbicide 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, Yijia; Zeinhom, Mohamed M. A.; Yang, Mingming

Onsite rapid detection of herbicide and herbicide residuals in environmental and biological specimens is important for agriculture, environment, food safety, and health care. Traditional method for herbicide detection requires expensive laboratory equipment and a long turn-round time. In this work, we developed a single-stripe microliter plate smartphone colorimetric device for rapid and low-cost in-field test. This portable smartphone platform is capable of screening 8 samples in a microplate single-stripe. The device combined the advantages of small size (50×100×160 mm3) and low cost ($10). The platform was calibrated by using two different dye solutions, i.e. methyl blue (MB) and Rhodamine B,more » for green and red channels. The results showed good correlation with results attained from a traditional laboratory reader. We demonstrated the application of this platform for an herbicide, 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid detection in the range of 1 ppb to 80 ppb. Spiked samples of tap water, rat serum, plasma and human serum were tested by our device. Recoveries obtained varied from 95.6% to 105.2% for all spiked samples using the microplate reader and from 93.7% to 106.9% using the smartphone device. This work validated that the smartphone optical sensing platform is comparable to the commercial microplate reader, it is eligible for onsite rapid and low-cost detection of herbicide for environmental evaluation and biological monitoring.« less

Analysis of H2 storage needs for early market non-motive fuel cell applications.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Johnson, Terry Alan; Moreno, Marcina; Arienti, Marco

Hydrogen fuel cells can potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the United States dependence on foreign oil, but issues with hydrogen storage are impeding their widespread use. To help overcome these challenges, this study analyzes opportunities for their near-term deployment in five categories of non-motive equipment: portable power, construction equipment, airport ground support equipment, telecom backup power, and man-portable power and personal electronics. To this end, researchers engaged end users, equipment manufacturers, and technical experts via workshops, interviews, and electronic means, and then compiled these data into meaningful and realistic requirements for hydrogen storage in specific target applications. In additionmore » to developing these requirements, end-user benefits (e.g., low noise and emissions, high efficiency, potentially lower maintenance costs) and concerns (e.g., capital cost, hydrogen availability) of hydrogen fuel cells in these applications were identified. Market data show potential deployments vary with application from hundreds to hundreds of thousands of units.« less

Rapid DNA Amplification Using a Battery-Powered Thin-Film Resistive Thermocycler

PubMed Central

Herold, Keith E.; Sergeev, Nikolay; Matviyenko, Andriy; Rasooly, Avraham

2010-01-01

Summary A prototype handheld, compact, rapid thermocycler was developed for multiplex analysis of nucleic acids in an inexpensive, portable configuration. Instead of the commonly used Peltier heating/cooling element, electric thin-film resistive heater and a miniature fan enable rapid heating and cooling of glass capillaries leading to a simple, low-cost Thin-Film Resistive Thermocycler (TFRT). Computer-based pulse width modulation control yields heating rates of 6–7 K/s and cooling rates of 5 K/s. The four capillaries are closely coupled to the heater, resulting in low power consumption. The energy required by a nominal PCR cycle (20 s at each temperature) was found to be 57 ± 2 J yielding an average power of approximately 1.0 W (not including the computer and the control system). Thus the device can be powered by a standard 9 V alkaline battery (or other 9 V power supply). The prototype TFRT was demonstrated (in a benchtop configuration) for detection of three important food pathogens (E. coli ETEC, Shigella dysenteriae, and Salmonella enterica). PCR amplicons were analyzed by gel electrophoresis. The 35 cycle PCR protocol using a single channel was completed in less then 18 min. Simple and efficient heating/cooling, low cost, rapid amplification, and low power consumption make the device suitable for portable DNA amplification applications including clinical point of care diagnostics and field use. PMID:19159110

A Novel Solid State Non-Dispersive Infrared CO2 Gas Sensor Compatible with Wireless and Portable Deployment

PubMed Central

Gibson, Desmond; MacGregor, Calum

2013-01-01

This paper describes development of a novel mid-infrared light emitting diode (LED) and photodiode (PD) light source/detector combination and use within a non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) carbon dioxide gas sensor. The LED/PD based NDIR sensor provides fast stabilisation time (time required to turn on the sensor from cold, warm up, take and report a measurement, and power down again ≈1 second), longevity (>15 years), low power consumption and low cost. Described performance is compatible with “fit and forget” wireless deployed sensors in applications such as indoor air quality monitoring/control & energy conservation in buildings, transport systems, horticultural greenhouses and portable deployment for safety, industrial and medical applications. Fast stabilisation time, low intrinsic power consumption and cycled operation offer typical energy consumption per measurement of mJ's, providing extended operation using battery and/or energy harvesting strategies (measurement interval of ≈ 2 minutes provides >10 years operation from one AA battery). Specific performance data is provided in relation to measurement accuracy and noise, temperature performance, cross sensitivity, measurement range (two pathlength variants are described covering ambient through to 100% gas concentration), comparison with NDIR utilizing thermal source/pyroelectric light source/detector combination and compatibility with energy harvesting. Semiconductor based LED/PD processing together with injection moulded reflective optics and simple assembly provide a route to low cost high volume manufacturing. PMID:23760090

A novel solid state non-dispersive infrared CO2 gas sensor compatible with wireless and portable deployment.

PubMed

Gibson, Desmond; MacGregor, Calum

2013-05-29

This paper describes development of a novel mid-infrared light emitting diode (LED) and photodiode (PD) light source/detector combination and use within a non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) carbon dioxide gas sensor. The LED/PD based NDIR sensor provides fast stabilisation time (time required to turn on the sensor from cold, warm up, take and report a measurement, and power down again ≈1 second), longevity (>15 years), low power consumption and low cost. Described performance is compatible with "fit and forget" wireless deployed sensors in applications such as indoor air quality monitoring/control & energy conservation in buildings, transport systems, horticultural greenhouses and portable deployment for safety, industrial and medical applications. Fast stabilisation time, low intrinsic power consumption and cycled operation offer typical energy consumption per measurement of mJ's, providing extended operation using battery and/or energy harvesting strategies (measurement interval of ≈ 2 minutes provides >10 years operation from one AA battery). Specific performance data is provided in relation to measurement accuracy and noise, temperature performance, cross sensitivity, measurement range (two pathlength variants are described covering ambient through to 100% gas concentration), comparison with NDIR utilizing thermal source/pyroelectric light source/detector combination and compatibility with energy harvesting. Semiconductor based LED/PD processing together with injection moulded reflective optics and simple assembly provide a route to low cost high volume manufacturing.

Low-Cost, Class D Testing of Spacecraft Photovoltaic Systems Can Reduce Risk

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Forgione, Joshua B.; Kojima, Gilbert K.; Hanel, Robert; Mallinson, Mark

2014-01-01

The end-to-end verification of a spacecraft photovoltaic power generation system requires light! A lowcost, portable, and end-to-end photovoltaic-system test appropriate for NASA's new generation of Class D missions is presented. High risk, low-cost, and quick-turn satellites rarely have the resources to execute the traditional approaches from higher-class (A-C) missions. The Class D approach, as demonstrated on the Lunar Atmospheric and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE), utilizes a portable, metalhalide, theatre lamp for an end-to-end photovoltaic system test. While not as precise and comprehensive as the traditional Large Area Pulsed Solar Simulator (LAPSS) test, the LADEE method leverages minimal resources into an ongoing assessment program that can be applied through numerous stages of the mission. The project takes a true Class D approach in assessing the technical value of a costly, highfidelity performance test versus a simpler approach with less programmatic risk. The resources required are a fraction of that for a LAPSS test, and is easy to repeat due to its portability. Further, the test equipment can be handed down to future projects without building an on-site facility. At the vanguard of Class D missions, the LADEE team frequently wrestled with and challenged the status quo. The philosophy of risk avoidance at all cost, typical to Class A-C missions, simply could not be executed. This innovative and simple testing solution is contextualized to NASA Class D programs and a specific risk encountered during development of the LADEE Electrical Power System (EPS). Selection of the appropriate lamp and safety concerns are discussed, with examples of test results. Combined with the vendor's panellevel data and periodic inspection, the method ensures system integrity from Integration and Test (I&T) through launch. Following launch, mission operations tools are utilized to assess system performance based on a scant amount of available data.

Sensor Suitcase: Portable System for Increasing Building Energy Efficiency

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

None

PNNL's Sensor Suitcase does an energy assessment of small buildings, enabling building owners to see which low-cost, energy-saving modifications would give them the best payoff. Implementing the recommended changes typically means 10% energy cost savings per small building. No other product provides such easy-to-use, expert-guided capabilities, and at half the cost of a typical energy assessment.

Fundus Photography in the 21st Century--A Review of Recent Technological Advances and Their Implications for Worldwide Healthcare.

PubMed

Panwar, Nishtha; Huang, Philemon; Lee, Jiaying; Keane, Pearse A; Chuan, Tjin Swee; Richhariya, Ashutosh; Teoh, Stephen; Lim, Tock Han; Agrawal, Rupesh

2016-03-01

The introduction of fundus photography has impacted retinal imaging and retinal screening programs significantly. Fundus cameras play a vital role in addressing the cause of preventive blindness. More attention is being turned to developing countries, where infrastructure and access to healthcare are limited. One of the major limitations for tele-ophthalmology is restricted access to the office-based fundus camera. Recent advances in access to telecommunications coupled with introduction of portable cameras and smartphone-based fundus imaging systems have resulted in an exponential surge in available technologies for portable fundus photography. Retinal cameras in the near future would have to cater to these needs by featuring a low-cost, portable design with automated controls and digitalized images with Web-based transfer. In this review, we aim to highlight the advances of fundus photography for retinal screening as well as discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and implications of the various technologies that are currently available.

Development of High Precision Metal Micro-Electro-Mechanical-Systems Column for Portable Surface Acoustic Wave Gas Chromatograph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iwaya, Takamitsu; Akao, Shingo; Sakamoto, Toshihiro; Tsuji, Toshihiro; Nakaso, Noritaka; Yamanaka, Kazushi

2012-07-01

In the field of environmental measurement and security, a portable gas chromatograph (GC) is required for the on-site analysis of multiple hazardous gases. Although the gas separation column has been downsized using micro-electro-mechanical-systems (MEMS) technology, an MEMS column made of silicon and glass still does not have sufficient robustness and a sufficiently low fabrication cost for a portable GC. In this study, we fabricated a robust and inexpensive high-precision metal MEMS column by combining diffusion-bonded etched stainless-steel plates with alignment evaluation using acoustic microscopy. The separation performance was evaluated using a desktop GC with a flame ionization detector and we achieved the high separation performance comparable to the best silicon MEMS column fabricated using a dynamic coating method. As an application, we fabricated a palm-size surface acoustic wave (SAW) GC combining this column with a ball SAW sensor and succeeded in separating and detecting a mixture of volatile organic compounds.

Fundus Photography in the 21st Century—A Review of Recent Technological Advances and Their Implications for Worldwide Healthcare

PubMed Central

Panwar, Nishtha; Huang, Philemon; Lee, Jiaying; Keane, Pearse A.; Chuan, Tjin Swee; Richhariya, Ashutosh; Teoh, Stephen; Lim, Tock Han

2016-01-01

Abstract Background: The introduction of fundus photography has impacted retinal imaging and retinal screening programs significantly. Literature Review: Fundus cameras play a vital role in addressing the cause of preventive blindness. More attention is being turned to developing countries, where infrastructure and access to healthcare are limited. One of the major limitations for tele-ophthalmology is restricted access to the office-based fundus camera. Results: Recent advances in access to telecommunications coupled with introduction of portable cameras and smartphone-based fundus imaging systems have resulted in an exponential surge in available technologies for portable fundus photography. Retinal cameras in the near future would have to cater to these needs by featuring a low-cost, portable design with automated controls and digitalized images with Web-based transfer. Conclusions: In this review, we aim to highlight the advances of fundus photography for retinal screening as well as discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and implications of the various technologies that are currently available. PMID:26308281

Image stacking approach to increase sensitivity of fluorescence detection using a low cost complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) webcam.

PubMed

Balsam, Joshua; Bruck, Hugh Alan; Kostov, Yordan; Rasooly, Avraham

2012-01-01

Optical technologies are important for biological analysis. Current biomedical optical analyses rely on high-cost, high-sensitivity optical detectors such as photomultipliers, avalanched photodiodes or cooled CCD cameras. In contrast, Webcams, mobile phones and other popular consumer electronics use lower-sensitivity, lower-cost optical components such as photodiodes or CMOS sensors. In order for consumer electronics devices, such as webcams, to be useful for biomedical analysis, they must have increased sensitivity. We combined two strategies to increase the sensitivity of CMOS-based fluorescence detector. We captured hundreds of low sensitivity images using a Webcam in video mode, instead of a single image typically used in cooled CCD devices.We then used a computational approach consisting of an image stacking algorithm to remove the noise by combining all of the images into a single image. While video mode is widely used for dynamic scene imaging (e.g. movies or time-lapse photography), it is not used to capture a single static image, which removes noise and increases sensitivity by more than thirty fold. The portable, battery-operated Webcam-based fluorometer system developed here consists of five modules: (1) a low cost CMOS Webcam to monitor light emission, (2) a plate to perform assays, (3) filters and multi-wavelength LED illuminator for fluorophore excitation, (4) a portable computer to acquire and analyze images, and (5) image stacking software for image enhancement. The samples consisted of various concentrations of fluorescein, ranging from 30 μM to 1000 μM, in a 36-well miniature plate. In the single frame mode, the fluorometer's limit-of-detection (LOD) for fluorescein is ∼1000 μM, which is relatively insensitive. However, when used in video mode combined with image stacking enhancement, the LOD is dramatically reduced to 30 μM, sensitivity which is similar to that of state-of-the-art ELISA plate photomultiplier-based readers. Numerous medical diagnostics assays rely on optical and fluorescence readers. Our novel combination of detection technologies, which is new to biodetection may enable the development of new low cost optical detectors based on an inexpensive Webcam (<$10). It has the potential to form the basis for high sensitivity, low cost medical diagnostics in resource-poor settings.

Image stacking approach to increase sensitivity of fluorescence detection using a low cost complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) webcam

PubMed Central

Balsam, Joshua; Bruck, Hugh Alan; Kostov, Yordan; Rasooly, Avraham

2013-01-01

Optical technologies are important for biological analysis. Current biomedical optical analyses rely on high-cost, high-sensitivity optical detectors such as photomultipliers, avalanched photodiodes or cooled CCD cameras. In contrast, Webcams, mobile phones and other popular consumer electronics use lower-sensitivity, lower-cost optical components such as photodiodes or CMOS sensors. In order for consumer electronics devices, such as webcams, to be useful for biomedical analysis, they must have increased sensitivity. We combined two strategies to increase the sensitivity of CMOS-based fluorescence detector. We captured hundreds of low sensitivity images using a Webcam in video mode, instead of a single image typically used in cooled CCD devices.We then used a computational approach consisting of an image stacking algorithm to remove the noise by combining all of the images into a single image. While video mode is widely used for dynamic scene imaging (e.g. movies or time-lapse photography), it is not used to capture a single static image, which removes noise and increases sensitivity by more than thirty fold. The portable, battery-operated Webcam-based fluorometer system developed here consists of five modules: (1) a low cost CMOS Webcam to monitor light emission, (2) a plate to perform assays, (3) filters and multi-wavelength LED illuminator for fluorophore excitation, (4) a portable computer to acquire and analyze images, and (5) image stacking software for image enhancement. The samples consisted of various concentrations of fluorescein, ranging from 30 μM to 1000 μM, in a 36-well miniature plate. In the single frame mode, the fluorometer's limit-of-detection (LOD) for fluorescein is ∼1000 μM, which is relatively insensitive. However, when used in video mode combined with image stacking enhancement, the LOD is dramatically reduced to 30 μM, sensitivity which is similar to that of state-of-the-art ELISA plate photomultiplier-based readers. Numerous medical diagnostics assays rely on optical and fluorescence readers. Our novel combination of detection technologies, which is new to biodetection may enable the development of new low cost optical detectors based on an inexpensive Webcam (<$10). It has the potential to form the basis for high sensitivity, low cost medical diagnostics in resource-poor settings. PMID:23990697

Study of CdTe/CdS solar cell at low power density for low-illumination applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Devi, Nisha; Aziz, Anver; Datta, Shouvik

2016-05-01

In this paper, we numerically investigate CdTe/CdS PV cell properties using a simulation program Solar Cell Capacitance Simulator in 1D (SCAPS-1D). A simple structure of CdTe PV cell has been optimized to study the effect of temperature, absorber thickness and work function at very low incident power. Objective of this research paper is to build an efficient and cost effective solar cell for portable electronic devices such as portable computers and cell phones that work at low incident power because most of such devices work at diffused and reflected sunlight. In this report, we simulated a simple CdTe PV cell at very low incident power, which gives good efficiency.

A semi-automated, field-portable microscopy platform for clinical diagnostic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jagannadh, Veerendra Kalyan; Srinivasan, Rajesh; Gorthi, Sai Siva

2015-08-01

Clinical microscopy is a versatile diagnostic platform used for diagnosis of a multitude of diseases. In the recent past, many microfluidics based point-of-care diagnostic devices have been developed, which serve as alternatives to microscopy. However, these point-of-care devices are not as multi-functional and versatile as clinical microscopy. With the use of custom designed optics and microfluidics, we have developed a versatile microscopy-based cellular diagnostic platform, which can be used at the point of care. The microscopy platform presented here is capable of detecting infections of very low parasitemia level (in a very small quantity of sample), without the use of any additional computational hardware. Such a cost-effective and portable diagnostic device, would greatly impact the quality of health care available to people living in rural locations of the world. Apart from clinical diagnostics, it's applicability to field research in environmental microbiology has also been outlined.

Achieving reutilization of scheduling software through abstraction and generalization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilkinson, George J.; Monteleone, Richard A.; Weinstein, Stuart M.; Mohler, Michael G.; Zoch, David R.; Tong, G. Michael

1995-01-01

Reutilization of software is a difficult goal to achieve particularly in complex environments that require advanced software systems. The Request-Oriented Scheduling Engine (ROSE) was developed to create a reusable scheduling system for the diverse scheduling needs of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). ROSE is a data-driven scheduler that accepts inputs such as user activities, available resources, timing contraints, and user-defined events, and then produces a conflict-free schedule. To support reutilization, ROSE is designed to be flexible, extensible, and portable. With these design features, applying ROSE to a new scheduling application does not require changing the core scheduling engine, even if the new application requires significantly larger or smaller data sets, customized scheduling algorithms, or software portability. This paper includes a ROSE scheduling system description emphasizing its general-purpose features, reutilization techniques, and tasks for which ROSE reuse provided a low-risk solution with significant cost savings and reduced software development time.

Towards low cost photoacoustic Microscopy system for evaluation of skin health

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hariri, Ali; Fatima, Afreen; Mohammadian, Nafiseh; Bely, Nicholas; Nasiriavanaki, Mohammadreza

2016-09-01

Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) involves both optical and ultrasound imaging, owing to this combination the system is capable of generating high resolution images with good penetration depth. With the growing applications of PAI in neurology, vascular biology, dermatology, ophthalmology, tissue engineering, angiogenesis etc., there is a need to make the system more compact, cheap and effective. Therefore we designed an economical and compact version of PAI systems by replacing expensive and sophisticated lasers with a robust pulsed laser diode of 905 nm wavelength. In this study, we determine the feasibility of the Photoacoustic imaging with a very low excitation energy of 0.1uJ in Photoacoustic microscopy. We developed a low cost portable Photoacoustic Imaging including microscopy (both reflection) Phantom study was performed in this configuration and also ex-vivo image was obtained from mouse skin.

Low-cost, portable fire hose tester

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jocke, R. F.; Miller, R. E.

1975-01-01

Availability of pumping unit permits scheduling and performing required periodic hose tests in proper manner while retaining full fire equipment readiness. Use of pumping unit preserves operating life and capability of pumper truck.

Development of a Novel, Low-Cost, Disposable Wooden Pencil Graphite Electrode for Use in the Determination of Antioxidants and Other Biological Compounds.

PubMed

Kariuki, James; Ervin, Emily; Olafson, Carly

2015-07-31

The development of portable sensors that can be used outside the lab is an active area of research in the electroanalytical field. A major focus of such research is the development of low-cost electrodes for use in these sensors. Current electrodes, such as glassy-carbon electrodes (GCEs), are costly and require time-consuming preparation. Alternatives have been proposed, including mechanical pencil-lead electrodes (MPEs). However, MPEs themselves possess numerous drawbacks, particularly structural fragility. In this paper, we present a novel pencil-graphite electrode (PGE) fabricated from a regular HB#2 pencil. This PGE is a simple, disposable, extremely low-cost alternative to GCEs ($0.30 per PGE, vs. $190 + per GCE), and possesses the structural stability that MPEs lack. PGEs were characterized by square-wave voltammetry of ferricyanide, gallic acid, uric acid, dopamine, and several foodstuffs. In all cases, PGEs demonstrated sensitivities comparable or superior to those of the GCE and MPE (LOD = 5.62 × 10(-4) M PGE, 4.80 × 10(-4) M GCE, 2.93 × 10(-4) M MPE). Signal areas and peak heights were typically four to ten times larger for the PGE relative to the GCE.

Invasive Electrical Impedance Tomography for Blood Vessel Detection

PubMed Central

Martinsen, Ørjan G.; Kalvøy, Håvard; Grimnes, Sverre; Nordbotten, Bernt; Hol, Per Kristian; Fosse, Erik; Myklebust, Helge; Becker, Lance B

2010-01-01

We present a novel method for localization of large blood vessels using a bioimpedance based needle positioning system on an array of ten monopolar needle electrodes. The purpose of the study is to develop a portable, low cost tool for rapid vascular access for cooling and controlled reperfusion of cardiac arrest patients. Preliminary results show that localization of blood vessels is feasible with this method, but larger studies are necessary to improve the technology. PMID:21611140

Low-cost near-infrared measurement of subcutaneous fat for newborn malnutrition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McEwan, A. L.; Bian, S.; Gargiulo, G. D.; Morhard, R.; Jones, P.; Mustafa, F. H.; Bek, B. Emily; Jeffery, H. E.

2014-04-01

Low fat composition in newborns exposes them to an immediate risk of increased mortality and morbidity, inhibited physical and cognitive development and to diabetes and obesity diseases in later life. Information about nutritional and dietary status of newborns can be accessed by measuring the amount of fat composition in the body. The functions of subcutaneous fat involve energy storage, thermo-insulation and a physical buffer. Current technologies for newborn body fat monitoring are: a device based on air displacement plethesmography (PeaPod), dual-energy Xray, and underwater weighting. However they are bulky, expensive, immobile, and require technical expertise. We propose an alternative portable measurement system of in-vitro for subcutaneous fat that uses diffuse near-infrared light reflectance measurement system. We also introduce an in-vitro three-layered tissue model mimicking the subcutaneous fat layer in newborns together with a preliminary study to measure fat using dual-wavelength nearinfrared light. Based on the output data from these measurements, we have proposed a suitable transmission and scattering model. This model estimated the amount of reflected light collected by a photodetector after incident light is scattered in several fat layers. Our portable sensor is low cost and does not require training hence it is suitable for mass use in the developing world. It consists of a single LED and two photodetectors (900 nm and 1000 nm). The photodetectors wavelengths were chosen to be sensitive to fat as it exhibits a peak in the wavelength at 930 nm and to water at which exhibits a peak at 980 nm; the latter is used, to remove hydration bias. Results on a porcine tissue model demonstrate differentiation as low as 2 mm fat which is a relevant screening thickness to indicate low percentage body fat.

Development of a portable analyzer with polymer lab-on-a-chip (LOC) for continuous sampling and monitoring of Pb(II).

PubMed

Jang, A; Zou, Z; MacKnight, E; Wu, P M; Kim, I S; Ahn, C H; Bishop, P L

2009-01-01

A new portable analyzer with polymer lab-on-a-chip (LOC) has been designed, fabricated and fully characterized for continuous sampling and monitoring of lead (Pb(II)) in this work. As the working electrodes of the sensor, bismuth (Bi (III)) which allowed the advantage of being more environmentally friendly than traditional mercury drop electrodes was used, while maintaining similar sensitivity and other desirable characteristics. The size of a portable analyzer was 30 cmx23 cmx7 cm, and the weight was around 3 kg. The small size gives the advantage of being portable for field use while not sacrificing portability for accuracy of measurement. Furthermore, the autonomous system developed in coordination with the development of new polymer LOC integrated with electrochemical sensors can provide an innovative way to monitor surface waters in an efficient, cost-effective and sustainable manner.

Automated Low-Cost Smartphone-Based Lateral Flow Saliva Test Reader for Drugs-of-Abuse Detection.

PubMed

Carrio, Adrian; Sampedro, Carlos; Sanchez-Lopez, Jose Luis; Pimienta, Miguel; Campoy, Pascual

2015-11-24

Lateral flow assay tests are nowadays becoming powerful, low-cost diagnostic tools. Obtaining a result is usually subject to visual interpretation of colored areas on the test by a human operator, introducing subjectivity and the possibility of errors in the extraction of the results. While automated test readers providing a result-consistent solution are widely available, they usually lack portability. In this paper, we present a smartphone-based automated reader for drug-of-abuse lateral flow assay tests, consisting of an inexpensive light box and a smartphone device. Test images captured with the smartphone camera are processed in the device using computer vision and machine learning techniques to perform automatic extraction of the results. A deep validation of the system has been carried out showing the high accuracy of the system. The proposed approach, applicable to any line-based or color-based lateral flow test in the market, effectively reduces the manufacturing costs of the reader and makes it portable and massively available while providing accurate, reliable results.

Current Technologies and Recent Developments for Screening of HPV-Associated Cervical and Oropharyngeal Cancers

PubMed Central

Shah, Sunny S.; Senapati, Satyajyoti; Klacsmann, Flora; Miller, Daniel L.; Johnson, Jeff J.; Chang, Hsueh-Chia; Stack, M. Sharon

2016-01-01

Mucosal infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for a growing number of malignancies, predominantly represented by cervical cancer and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Because of the prevalence of the virus, persistence of infection, and long latency period, novel and low-cost methods are needed for effective population level screening and monitoring. We review established methods for screening of cervical and oral cancer as well as commercially-available techniques for detection of HPV DNA. We then describe the ongoing development of microfluidic nucleic acid-based biosensors to evaluate circulating host microRNAs that are produced in response to an oncogenic HPV infection. The goal is to develop an ideal screening platform that is low-cost, portable, and easy to use, with appropriate signal stability, sensitivity and specificity. Advances in technologies for sample lysis, pre-treatment and concentration, and multiplexed nucleic acid detection are provided. Continued development of these devices provides opportunities for cancer screening in low resource settings, for point-of-care diagnostics and self-screening, and for monitoring response to vaccination or surgical treatment. PMID:27618102

Portable and Error-Free DNA-Based Data Storage.

PubMed

Yazdi, S M Hossein Tabatabaei; Gabrys, Ryan; Milenkovic, Olgica

2017-07-10

DNA-based data storage is an emerging nonvolatile memory technology of potentially unprecedented density, durability, and replication efficiency. The basic system implementation steps include synthesizing DNA strings that contain user information and subsequently retrieving them via high-throughput sequencing technologies. Existing architectures enable reading and writing but do not offer random-access and error-free data recovery from low-cost, portable devices, which is crucial for making the storage technology competitive with classical recorders. Here we show for the first time that a portable, random-access platform may be implemented in practice using nanopore sequencers. The novelty of our approach is to design an integrated processing pipeline that encodes data to avoid costly synthesis and sequencing errors, enables random access through addressing, and leverages efficient portable sequencing via new iterative alignment and deletion error-correcting codes. Our work represents the only known random access DNA-based data storage system that uses error-prone nanopore sequencers, while still producing error-free readouts with the highest reported information rate/density. As such, it represents a crucial step towards practical employment of DNA molecules as storage media.

Managing Geothermal Exploratory Drilling Risks Drilling Geothermal Exploration and Delineation Wells with Small-Footprint Highly Portable Diamond Core Drills

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tuttle, J.; Listi, R.; Combs, J.; Welch, V.; Reilly, S.

2012-12-01

Small hydraulic core rigs are highly portable (truck or scow-mounted), and have recently been used for geothermal exploration in areas such as Nevada, California, the Caribbean Islands, Central and South America and elsewhere. Drilling with slim diameter core rod below 7,000' is common, with continuous core recovery providing native-state geological information to aid in identifying the resource characteristics and boundaries; this is a highly cost-effective process. Benefits associated with this innovative exploration and delineation technology includes the following: Low initial Capital Equipment Cost and consumables costs Small Footprint, reducing location and road construction, and cleanup costs Supporting drill rod (10'/3meter) and tools are relatively low weight and easily shipped Speed of Mobilization and rig up Reduced requirements for support equipment (cranes, backhoes, personnel, etc) Small mud systems and cementing requirements Continuous, simplified coring capability Depth ratings comparable to that of large rotary rigs (up to ~10,000'+) Remote/small-location accessible (flown into remote areas or shipped in overseas containers) Can be scow or truck-mounted This technical presentation's primary goal is to share the technology of utilizing small, highly portable hydraulic coring rigs to provide exploratory drilling (and in some cases, production drilling) for geothermal projects. Significant cost and operational benefits are possible for the Geothermal Operator, especially for those who are pursuing projects in remote locations or countries, or in areas that are either inaccessible or in which a small footprint is required. John D. Tuttle Sinclair Well Products jtuttle@sinclairwp.com

47 CFR 52.33 - Recovery of carrier-specific costs directly related to providing long-term number portability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Recovery of carrier-specific costs directly related to providing long-term number portability. (a... related to providing long-term number portability. 52.33 Section 52.33 Telecommunication FEDERAL... long-term number portability by establishing in tariffs filed with the Federal Communications...

47 CFR 52.33 - Recovery of carrier-specific costs directly related to providing long-term number portability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Recovery of carrier-specific costs directly related to providing long-term number portability. (a... related to providing long-term number portability. 52.33 Section 52.33 Telecommunication FEDERAL... long-term number portability by establishing in tariffs filed with the Federal Communications...

47 CFR 52.33 - Recovery of carrier-specific costs directly related to providing long-term number portability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Recovery of carrier-specific costs directly related to providing long-term number portability. (a... related to providing long-term number portability. 52.33 Section 52.33 Telecommunication FEDERAL... long-term number portability by establishing in tariffs filed with the Federal Communications...

47 CFR 52.33 - Recovery of carrier-specific costs directly related to providing long-term number portability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Recovery of carrier-specific costs directly related to providing long-term number portability. (a... related to providing long-term number portability. 52.33 Section 52.33 Telecommunication FEDERAL... long-term number portability by establishing in tariffs filed with the Federal Communications...

Design of low-cost general purpose microcontroller based neuromuscular stimulator.

PubMed

Koçer, S; Rahmi Canal, M; Güler, I

2000-04-01

In this study, a general purpose, low-cost, programmable, portable and high performance stimulator is designed and implemented. For this purpose, a microcontroller is used in the design of the stimulator. The duty cycle and amplitude of the designed system can be controlled using a keyboard. The performance test of the system has shown that the results are reliable. The overall system can be used as the neuromuscular stimulator under safe conditions.

A low-cost and miniaturized potentiostat for sensing of biomolecular species such as TNF-α by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.

PubMed

Pruna, Raquel; Palacio, Francisco; Baraket, Abdoullatif; Zine, Nadia; Streklas, Angelos; Bausells, Joan; Errachid, Abdelhamid; López, Manel

2018-02-15

Miniaturizing potentiostats, keeping their cost low and yet preserving full measurement characteristics (e.g. bandwidth, determination of capacitive/inductive contribution to sensor's impedance and parallel screening) is still an unresolved challenge in bioelectronics. In this work, the combination of simple analogue circuitry together with powerful microcontrollers and a digital filter implementation is presented as an alternative to complex and incomplete architectures reported in the literature. A low-cost acquisition electronic system fully integrated with a biosensors platform containing eight gold working microelectrodes and integrated reference and counter electrodes was developed and validated. The manufacturing cost of the prototype was kept below 300 USD. The performance of the proposed device was benchmarked against a commercial impedance analyzer through the electrochemical analysis of a highly sensitive biosensor for the detection of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) within the randomly chosen range of 266pg/mL to 666ng/mL in physiological medium (PBS). A strong correlation between the outputs of both devices was found in a critical range of frequencies (1-10Hz), and several TNF-α cytokine concentrations were properly discriminated. These results are very promising for the development of low-cost, portable and miniaturized electrochemical systems for point-of-care and environmental diagnosis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Highly Flexible and Efficient Solar Steam Generation Device.

PubMed

Chen, Chaoji; Li, Yiju; Song, Jianwei; Yang, Zhi; Kuang, Yudi; Hitz, Emily; Jia, Chao; Gong, Amy; Jiang, Feng; Zhu, J Y; Yang, Bao; Xie, Jia; Hu, Liangbing

2017-08-01

Solar steam generation with subsequent steam recondensation has been regarded as one of the most promising techniques to utilize the abundant solar energy and sea water or other unpurified water through water purification, desalination, and distillation. Although tremendous efforts have been dedicated to developing high-efficiency solar steam generation devices, challenges remain in terms of the relatively low efficiency, complicated fabrications, high cost, and inability to scale up. Here, inspired by the water transpiration behavior of trees, the use of carbon nanotube (CNT)-modified flexible wood membrane (F-Wood/CNTs) is demonstrated as a flexible, portable, recyclable, and efficient solar steam generation device for low-cost and scalable solar steam generation applications. Benefitting from the unique structural merits of the F-Wood/CNTs membrane-a black CNT-coated hair-like surface with excellent light absorbability, wood matrix with low thermal conductivity, hierarchical micro- and nanochannels for water pumping and escaping, solar steam generation device based on the F-Wood/CNTs membrane demonstrates a high efficiency of 81% at 10 kW cm -2 , representing one of the highest values ever-reported. The nature-inspired design concept in this study is straightforward and easily scalable, representing one of the most promising solutions for renewable and portable solar energy generation and other related phase-change applications. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Solid Sampling with a Diode Laser for Portable Ambient Mass Spectrometry

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

A hand-held diode laser is implemented for solid sampling in portable ambient mass spectrometry (MS). Specifically, a pseudocontinuous wave battery-powered surgical laser diode is employed for portable laser diode thermal desorption (LDTD) at 940 nm and compared with nanosecond pulsed laser ablation at 2940 nm. Postionization is achieved in both cases using atmospheric pressure photoionization (APPI). The laser ablation atmospheric pressure photoionization (LAAPPI) and LDTD-APPI mass spectra of sage leaves (Salvia officinalis) using a field-deployable quadrupole ion trap MS display many similar ion peaks, as do the mass spectra of membrane grown biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These results indicate that LDTD-APPI method should be useful for in-field sampling of plant and microbial communities, for example, by portable ambient MS. The feasibility of many portable MS applications is facilitated by the availability of relatively low cost, portable, battery-powered diode lasers. LDTD could also be coupled with plasma- or electrospray-based ionization for the analysis of a variety of solid samples. PMID:28632988

Solid Sampling with a Diode Laser for Portable Ambient Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Yung, Yeni P; Wickramasinghe, Raveendra; Vaikkinen, Anu; Kauppila, Tiina J; Veryovkin, Igor V; Hanley, Luke

2017-07-18

A hand-held diode laser is implemented for solid sampling in portable ambient mass spectrometry (MS). Specifically, a pseudocontinuous wave battery-powered surgical laser diode is employed for portable laser diode thermal desorption (LDTD) at 940 nm and compared with nanosecond pulsed laser ablation at 2940 nm. Postionization is achieved in both cases using atmospheric pressure photoionization (APPI). The laser ablation atmospheric pressure photoionization (LAAPPI) and LDTD-APPI mass spectra of sage leaves (Salvia officinalis) using a field-deployable quadrupole ion trap MS display many similar ion peaks, as do the mass spectra of membrane grown biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These results indicate that LDTD-APPI method should be useful for in-field sampling of plant and microbial communities, for example, by portable ambient MS. The feasibility of many portable MS applications is facilitated by the availability of relatively low cost, portable, battery-powered diode lasers. LDTD could also be coupled with plasma- or electrospray-based ionization for the analysis of a variety of solid samples.

Development of a heavy duty portable variable power supply (HPVPS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Musa, Ahmad Zulfadli Bin; Lung, Chong Man; Abidin, Wan'Amirah Basyarah Binti Zainol

2017-08-01

This paper covers the innovation of a Heavy Duty Portable Variable Power Supply (HPVPS) in Jabatan Kejuruteraan Elektrik (JKE), Politeknik Mukah, Sarawak (PMU). This project consists of variable power supply which can vary the output from 1.2 V to 11.6V, AC pure wave inverter to convert DC to AC for the operation of low power home appliances and also used Li-on rechargeable batteries to store the electrical energy and additional feature that can be used to jump-start the batteries of the car. The main objective of this project is to make the user can operate the electronic devices anywhere whenever if no electricity while doing their lab activities. Most of the regulated power supply in JKE lab aged 9-10 years old and need periodical maintenance and need cost and also the unit can be used is not enough to support the whole class during lab activities. As a result, the P&P process will be facing the major problem in order to make the lab activities running smoothly. By development of the portable variable power supply, the P&P process is more efficient and very helpful.

Study of CdTe/CdS solar cell at low power density for low-illumination applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Devi, Nisha, E-mail: nishatanwer1989@gmail.com; Aziz, Anver, E-mail: aaziz@jmi.ac.in; Datta, Shouvik

In this paper, we numerically investigate CdTe/CdS PV cell properties using a simulation program Solar Cell Capacitance Simulator in 1D (SCAPS-1D). A simple structure of CdTe PV cell has been optimized to study the effect of temperature, absorber thickness and work function at very low incident power. Objective of this research paper is to build an efficient and cost effective solar cell for portable electronic devices such as portable computers and cell phones that work at low incident power because most of such devices work at diffused and reflected sunlight. In this report, we simulated a simple CdTe PV cellmore » at very low incident power, which gives good efficiency.« less

Development of a digital microfluidic platform for point of care testing

PubMed Central

Sista, Ramakrishna; Hua, Zhishan; Thwar, Prasanna; Sudarsan, Arjun; Srinivasan, Vijay; Eckhardt, Allen; Pollack, Michael; Pamula, Vamsee

2009-01-01

Point of care testing is playing an increasingly important role in improving the clinical outcome in health care management. The salient features of a point of care device are quick results, integrated sample preparation and processing, small sample volumes, portability, multifunctionality and low cost. In this paper, we demonstrate some of these salient features utilizing an electrowetting-based Digital Microfluidic platform. We demonstrate the performance of magnetic bead-based immunoassays (cardiac troponin I) on a digital microfluidic cartridge in less than 8 minutes using whole blood samples. Using the same microfluidic cartridge, a 40-cycle real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed within 12 minutes by shuttling a droplet between two thermal zones. We further demonstrate, on the same cartridge, the capability to perform sample preparation for bacterial and fungal infectious disease pathogens (methicillin-resistance Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans) and for human genomic DNA using magnetic beads. In addition to rapid results and integrated sample preparation, electrowetting-based digital microfluidic instruments are highly portable because fluid pumping is performed electronically. All the digital microfluidic chips presented here were fabricated on printed circuit boards utilizing mass production techniques that keep the cost of the chip low. Due to the modularity and scalability afforded by digital microfluidics, multifunctional testing capability, such as combinations within and between immunoassays, DNA amplification, and enzymatic assays, can be brought to the point of care at a relatively low cost because a single chip can be configured in software for different assays required along the path of care. PMID:19023472

Portable smartphone based quantitative phase microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meng, Xin; Tian, Xiaolin; Yu, Wei; Kong, Yan; Jiang, Zhilong; Liu, Fei; Xue, Liang; Liu, Cheng; Wang, Shouyu

2018-01-01

To realize portable device with high contrast imaging capability, we designed a quantitative phase microscope using transport of intensity equation method based on a smartphone. The whole system employs an objective and an eyepiece as imaging system and a cost-effective LED as illumination source. A 3-D printed cradle is used to align these components. Images of different focal planes are captured by manual focusing, followed by calculation of sample phase via a self-developed Android application. To validate its accuracy, we first tested the device by measuring a random phase plate with known phases, and then red blood cell smear, Pap smear, broad bean epidermis sections and monocot root were also measured to show its performance. Owing to its advantages as accuracy, high-contrast, cost-effective and portability, the portable smartphone based quantitative phase microscope is a promising tool which can be future adopted in remote healthcare and medical diagnosis.

The wireless data acquisition system based on Bluetooth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, En; Xu, Xiao-na; Wu, Si-long

2013-03-01

Bluetooth is one of the wireless communication technology, which is developing rapidly in recent years. As a result of low cost and short distance, Bluetooth can set up a special connection for portable electronic devices and stationary electronic equipment communication environment. The paper studies a data acquisition system based on Bluetooth. The system can collect the angle of motor rotation and send it to the Receiver through the Bluetooth. The results show that the system can be run normal.[1

Grading Multiple Choice Exams with Low-Cost and Portable Computer-Vision Techniques

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fisteus, Jesus Arias; Pardo, Abelardo; García, Norberto Fernández

2013-01-01

Although technology for automatic grading of multiple choice exams has existed for several decades, it is not yet as widely available or affordable as it should be. The main reasons preventing this adoption are the cost and the complexity of the setup procedures. In this paper, "Eyegrade," a system for automatic grading of multiple…

The Characterization of an Easy-to-Operate Inexpensive Student-Built Fluorimeter

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wigton, Benjamin T.; Chohan, Balwant S.; Kreuter, Rod; Sykes, Dan

2011-01-01

A compact, rugged, and portable fluorimeter was designed and constructed using a 460 nm light-emitting diode for the excitation and a silicon photodiode for detection. The total cost of such an instrument is less than $110, thus allowing for deployment of multiple instruments at low cost. The fluorimeter is easy to operate and has been…

Rapid, Affordable and Portable Medium-Throughput Molecular Device for Zika Virus

PubMed Central

Chan, Kamfai; Weaver, Scott C.; Wong, Pui-Yan; Lie, Sherly; Wang, Eryu; Guerbois, Mathilde; Vayugundla, Siva Praneeth; Wong, Season

2016-01-01

Zika virus (ZIKV) has gained global attention as an etiologic agent of fetal microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Existing immuno-based rapid tests often fail to distinguish between Zika and related flaviviruses that are common in affected regions of Central and South Americas and the Caribbean. The US CDC and qualified state health department laboratories can perform the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) ZIKV test using highly sophisticated instruments with long turnaround times. The preliminary results of a portable and low-cost molecular diagnostics system for ZIKV infection are reported here. In less than 15 minutes, this low-cost platform can automatically perform high quality RNA extraction from up to 12 ZIKV-spiked urine samples simultaneously. It can also perform reverse transcription recombinase polymerase amplification reaction (RT-RPA) in ≤15 minutes. The fluorescent signal produced from probe-based RT-RPA or RT-PCR assays can be monitored using LEDs and a smartphone camera. In addition, the RT-RPA and RT-PCR assays do not cross-react with dengue and chikungunya viral RNA. This low-cost system lacks complicated, sensitive and high cost components, making it suitable for resource-limited settings. It has the potential to offer simple sample-to-answer molecular diagnostics and can inform healthcare workers of patients’ diagnosis promptly. PMID:27934884

Engineering the bioelectrochemical interface using functional nanomaterials and microchip technique toward sensitive and portable electrochemical biosensors.

PubMed

Jia, Xiaofang; Dong, Shaojun; Wang, Erkang

2016-02-15

Electrochemical biosensors have played active roles at the forefront of bioanalysis because they have the potential to achieve sensitive, specific and low-cost detection of biomolecules and many others. Engineering the electrochemical sensing interface with functional nanomaterials leads to novel electrochemical biosensors with improved performances in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, stability and simplicity. Functional nanomaterials possess good conductivity, catalytic activity, biocompatibility and high surface area. Coupled with bio-recognition elements, these features can amplify signal transduction and biorecognition events, resulting in highly sensitive biosensing. Additionally, microfluidic electrochemical biosensors have attracted considerable attention on account of their miniature, portable and low-cost systems as well as high fabrication throughput and ease of scaleup. For example, electrochemical enzymetic biosensors and aptamer biosensors (aptasensors) based on the integrated microchip can be used for portable point-of-care diagnostics and environmental monitoring. This review is a summary of our recent progress in the field of electrochemical biosensors, including aptasensors, cytosensors, enzymatic biosensors and self-powered biosensors based on biofuel cells. We presented the advantages that functional nanomaterials and microfluidic chip technology bring to the electrochemical biosensors, together with future prospects and possible challenges. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A Small-Scale Low-Cost Gas Chromatograph

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gros, Natasa; Vrtacnik, Margareta

2005-01-01

The design and application of a small-scale portable gas chromatograph for learning of the basic concepts of chromatography is described. The apparatus consists of two basic separable units, which includes a chromatographic unit and an electronic unit.

Portable and low-cost colorimetric office paper-based device for phenacetin detection in seized cocaine samples.

PubMed

da Silva, Gabriela O; de Araujo, William R; Paixão, Thiago R L C

2018-01-01

An office paper-based colorimetric device is proposed as a portable, rapid, and low-cost sensor for forensic applications aiming to detect phenacetin used as adulterant in illicit seized materials such as cocaine. The proposed method uses white office paper as the substrate and wax printing technology to fabricate the detection zones. Based on the optimum conditions, a linear analytical curve was obtained for phenacetin concentrations ranging from 0 to 64.52µgmL ‒1 , and the straight line was in accordance with the following equation: (Magenta percentage color) = 1.19 + 0.458 (C Phe /µgmL ‒1 ), R 2 = 0.990. The limit of detection was calculated as 3.5µgmL ‒1 (3σ/slope). The accuracy of the proposed method was evaluated using real seized cocaine samples and the spike-recovery procedure. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Design and development of an airborne multispectral imaging system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kulkarni, Rahul R.; Bachnak, Rafic; Lyle, Stacey; Steidley, Carl W.

2002-08-01

Advances in imaging technology and sensors have made airborne remote sensing systems viable for many applications that require reasonably good resolution at low cost. Digital cameras are making their mark on the market by providing high resolution at very high rates. This paper describes an aircraft-mounted imaging system (AMIS) that is being designed and developed at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (A&M-CC) with the support of a grant from NASA. The approach is to first develop and test a one-camera system that will be upgraded into a five-camera system that offers multi-spectral capabilities. AMIS will be low cost, rugged, portable and has its own battery power source. Its immediate use will be to acquire images of the Coastal area in the Gulf of Mexico for a variety of studies covering vast spectra from near ultraviolet region to near infrared region. This paper describes AMIS and its characteristics, discusses the process for selecting the major components, and presents the progress.

The Evaluation of a Low-Cost Colorimeter for Glucose Detection in Salivary Samples.

PubMed

Dominguez, Rocio B; Orozco, Miguel A; Chávez, Giovanny; Márquez-Lucero, Alfredo

2017-11-01

Given the limited access to healthcare resources, low-income settings require the development of affordable technology. Here we present the design and evaluation of a low-cost colorimeter applied to the non-invasive monitoring of Diabetes Mellitus through the detection of glucose in salival fluid. Samples were processed by the glucose oxidase-peroxidase enzymatic system and analyzed with the development equipment. A light emission diode of 532.5 nm was used as an excitation source and a RGB module was used as a receptor. A calibration curve to quantify the concentration of salivary glucose (0 to 18 mg/dL) was carried out by relating the RGB components registered with glucose concentrations, achieving a limit of detection of 0.17 mg/dL with a CV of 5% (n = 3). Salivary samples of diabetic and healthy volunteers were processed with the equipment showing an average concentration of 1.5519 ± 0.4511 mg/dL for the first and 4.0479 ± 1.6103 mg/dL for the last, allowing a discrimination between both groups. Results were validated against a UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometer with a correspondence of R² of 0.98194 between both instruments. Results suggest the potential application of the developed device to the sensitive detection of relevant analytes with a low-cost, user-friendly, low-power and portable instrumentation.

The Evaluation of a Low-Cost Colorimeter for Glucose Detection in Salivary Samples

PubMed Central

Dominguez, Rocio B.; Orozco, Miguel A.; Chávez, Giovanny; Márquez-Lucero, Alfredo

2017-01-01

Given the limited access to healthcare resources, low-income settings require the development of affordable technology. Here we present the design and evaluation of a low-cost colorimeter applied to the non-invasive monitoring of Diabetes Mellitus through the detection of glucose in salival fluid. Samples were processed by the glucose oxidase-peroxidase enzymatic system and analyzed with the development equipment. A light emission diode of 532.5 nm was used as an excitation source and a RGB module was used as a receptor. A calibration curve to quantify the concentration of salivary glucose (0 to 18 mg/dL) was carried out by relating the RGB components registered with glucose concentrations, achieving a limit of detection of 0.17 mg/dL with a CV of 5% (n = 3). Salivary samples of diabetic and healthy volunteers were processed with the equipment showing an average concentration of 1.5519 ± 0.4511 mg/dL for the first and 4.0479 ± 1.6103 mg/dL for the last, allowing a discrimination between both groups. Results were validated against a UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometer with a correspondence of R2 of 0.98194 between both instruments. Results suggest the potential application of the developed device to the sensitive detection of relevant analytes with a low-cost, user-friendly, low-power and portable instrumentation. PMID:29104212

Portable Biomarker Detection with Magnetic Nanotags

PubMed Central

Hall, Drew A.; Wang, Shan X.; Murmann, Boris; Gaster, Richard S.

2012-01-01

This paper presents a hand-held, portable biosensor platform for quantitative biomarker measurement. By combining magnetic nanoparticle (MNP) tags with giant magnetoresistive (GMR) spin-valve sensors, the hand-held platform achieves highly sensitive (picomolar) and specific biomarker detection in less than 20 minutes. The rapid analysis and potential low cost make this technology ideal for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics. Furthermore, this platform is able to detect multiple biomarkers simultaneously in a single assay, creating a promising diagnostic tool for a vast number of applications. PMID:22495252

Installing Portable Classrooms With Good Air Quality.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Godfrey, Ray

2000-01-01

Discusses the advantages of modular classrooms and improvements made in indoor air quality, including the pros and cons of portables, challenges districts face when planning and installing portables, and cost considerations. Concluding comments highlight system costs and maintenance required. (GR)

Open-source colorimeter.

PubMed

Anzalone, Gerald C; Glover, Alexandra G; Pearce, Joshua M

2013-04-19

The high cost of what have historically been sophisticated research-related sensors and tools has limited their adoption to a relatively small group of well-funded researchers. This paper provides a methodology for applying an open-source approach to design and development of a colorimeter. A 3-D printable, open-source colorimeter utilizing only open-source hardware and software solutions and readily available discrete components is discussed and its performance compared to a commercial portable colorimeter. Performance is evaluated with commercial vials prepared for the closed reflux chemical oxygen demand (COD) method. This approach reduced the cost of reliable closed reflux COD by two orders of magnitude making it an economic alternative for the vast majority of potential users. The open-source colorimeter demonstrated good reproducibility and serves as a platform for further development and derivation of the design for other, similar purposes such as nephelometry. This approach promises unprecedented access to sophisticated instrumentation based on low-cost sensors by those most in need of it, under-developed and developing world laboratories.

Open-Source Colorimeter

PubMed Central

Anzalone, Gerald C.; Glover, Alexandra G.; Pearce, Joshua M.

2013-01-01

The high cost of what have historically been sophisticated research-related sensors and tools has limited their adoption to a relatively small group of well-funded researchers. This paper provides a methodology for applying an open-source approach to design and development of a colorimeter. A 3-D printable, open-source colorimeter utilizing only open-source hardware and software solutions and readily available discrete components is discussed and its performance compared to a commercial portable colorimeter. Performance is evaluated with commercial vials prepared for the closed reflux chemical oxygen demand (COD) method. This approach reduced the cost of reliable closed reflux COD by two orders of magnitude making it an economic alternative for the vast majority of potential users. The open-source colorimeter demonstrated good reproducibility and serves as a platform for further development and derivation of the design for other, similar purposes such as nephelometry. This approach promises unprecedented access to sophisticated instrumentation based on low-cost sensors by those most in need of it, under-developed and developing world laboratories. PMID:23604032

Transmutation of Personal Glucose Meters into Portable and Highly Sensitive Microbial Pathogen Detection Platform.

PubMed

Wang, Zhenzhen; Chen, Zhaowei; Gao, Nan; Ren, Jinsong; Qu, Xiaogang

2015-10-07

Herein, for the first time, we presented a simple and general approach by using personal glucose meters (PGM) for portable and ultrasensitive detection of microbial pathogens. Upon addition of pathogenic bacteria, glucoamylase-quaternized magnetic nanoparticles (GA-QMNPS) conjugates were disrupted by the competitive multivalent interactions between bacteria and QMNPS, resulting in the release of GA. After magnetic separation, the free GA could catalyze the hydrolysis of amylose into glucose for quantitative readout by PGM. In such way, PGM was transmuted into a bacterial detection device and extremely low detection limits down to 20 cells mL(-1) was achieved. More importantly, QMNPS could inhibit the growth of the bacteria and destroy its cellular structure, which enabled bacteria detection and inhibition simultaneously. The simplicity, portability, sensitivity and low cost of presented work make it attractive for clinical applications. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

One-port portable SAW sensor system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoa Nguyen, Vu; Peters, Oliver; Schnakenberg, Uwe

2018-01-01

A portable device using the SAW-based impedance sensor type based on one interdigital transducer simultaneously as SAW generator and sensor element (1-port approach) is introduced. As a novelty, the so far required expensive vector network analyzer (VNA) is replaced by a hand-held device to measure the impedance spectrum of the SAW sensor by RF-gain-phase meters. Hence, some of the best features from the conventional oscillator and VNA approaches are combined to develop a low-cost and self-contained measurement system, including signal in- and output ability for real-time measurements. The pivotal aspect of the portable system is the transfer of the sophisticated high frequency approach into a quasi-static one. This enables the use of simple lumped electronics without the need of impedance matching circuits. Proof-of-concept was carried out by measuring conductivities of phosphate-buffered solutions and viscosities of glycerin. Sensitivities for temperature of 0.3%/°C, viscosity of 10.1% (mPa s)-1 and conductivity of 0.5% (S cm)-1 have been determined, respectively, which are competitive results compared to the benchmark approaches.

The smartphone brain scanner: a portable real-time neuroimaging system.

PubMed

Stopczynski, Arkadiusz; Stahlhut, Carsten; Larsen, Jakob Eg; Petersen, Michael Kai; Hansen, Lars Kai

2014-01-01

Combining low-cost wireless EEG sensors with smartphones offers novel opportunities for mobile brain imaging in an everyday context. Here we present the technical details and validation of a framework for building multi-platform, portable EEG applications with real-time 3D source reconstruction. The system--Smartphone Brain Scanner--combines an off-the-shelf neuroheadset or EEG cap with a smartphone or tablet, and as such represents the first fully portable system for real-time 3D EEG imaging. We discuss the benefits and challenges, including technical limitations as well as details of real-time reconstruction of 3D images of brain activity. We present examples of brain activity captured in a simple experiment involving imagined finger tapping, which shows that the acquired signal in a relevant brain region is similar to that obtained with standard EEG lab equipment. Although the quality of the signal in a mobile solution using an off-the-shelf consumer neuroheadset is lower than the signal obtained using high-density standard EEG equipment, we propose mobile application development may offset the disadvantages and provide completely new opportunities for neuroimaging in natural settings.

Characteristics and applications of small, portable gaseous air pollution monitors.

PubMed

McKercher, Grant R; Salmond, Jennifer A; Vanos, Jennifer K

2017-04-01

Traditional approaches for measuring air quality based on fixed measurements are inadequate for personal exposure monitoring. To combat this issue, the use of small, portable gas-sensing air pollution monitoring technologies is increasing, with researchers and individuals employing portable and mobile methods to obtain more spatially and temporally representative air pollution data. However, many commercially available options are built for various applications and based on different technologies, assumptions, and limitations. A review of the monitor characteristics of small, gaseous monitors is missing from current scientific literature. A state-of-the-art review of small, portable monitors that measure ambient gaseous outdoor pollutants was developed to address broad trends during the last 5-10 years, and to help future experimenters interested in studying gaseous air pollutants choose monitors appropriate for their application and sampling needs. Trends in small, portable gaseous air pollution monitor uses and technologies were first identified and discussed in a review of literature. Next, searches of online databases were performed for articles containing specific information related to performance, characteristics, and use of such monitors that measure one or more of three criteria gaseous air pollutants: ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide. All data were summarized into reference tables for comparison between applications, physical features, sensing capabilities, and costs of the devices. Recent portable monitoring trends are strongly related to associated applications and audiences. Fundamental research requires monitors with the best individual performance, and thus the highest cost technology. Monitor networking favors real-time capabilities and moderate cost for greater reproduction. Citizen science and crowdsourcing applications allow for lower-cost components; however important strengths and limitations for each application must be addressed or acknowledged for the given use. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Low-cost and highly sensitive immunosensing platform for aflatoxins using one-step competitive displacement reaction mode and portable glucometer-based detection.

PubMed

Tang, Dianping; Lin, Youxiu; Zhou, Qian; Lin, Yuping; Li, Peiwu; Niessner, Reinhard; Knopp, Dietmar

2014-11-18

Aflatoxins are highly toxic secondary metabolites produced by a number of different fungi and present in a wide range of food and feed commodities. Herein, we designed a simple and low-cost immunosensing platform for highly sensitive detection of mycotoxins (aflatoxin B1, AFB1, used as a model) on polyethylenimine (PEI)-coated mesoporous silica nanocontainers (PEI-MSN). The assay was carried out by using a portable personal glucometer (PGM) as the readout based on a competitive displacement reaction mode between target AFB1 and its pseudo-hapten (PEI-MSN) for monoclonal anti-AFB1 antibody (mAb). To construct such an assay protocol, two nanostructures including mAb-labeled gold nanoparticle (mAb-AuNP) and PEI-MSN were initially synthesized, and then numerous glucose molecules were gated into the pores based on the interaction between negatively charged mAb-AuNP and positively charged PEI-MSN. In the presence of target AFB1, a competitive-type displacement reaction was implemented between mAb-AuNP and PEI-MSN by target AFB1 through the specific antigen-antibody reaction. Accompanying the reaction, target AFB1 could displace the mAb-AuNP from the surface of PEI-MSN, resulting in the release of the loading glucose from the pores due to the gate opened. The released glucose molecules could be quantitatively determined by using a portable PGM. Under optimal conditions, the PGM signal increased with the increment of AFB1 concentration in the range from 0.01 to 15 μg/kg (ppb) with a detection limit (LOD) of 5 ng/kg (5 ppt) at the 3sblank criterion. The selectivity and precision were acceptable. Importantly, the methodology was further validated for assaying naturally contaminated or spiked blank peanut samples, and consistent results between the PGM-based immunoassay and the referenced enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were obtained. Therefore, the developed immunoassay provides a promising approach for rapid screening of organic pollutants because it is simple, low-cost, sensitive, specific, and without the need of multiple separation and washing steps.

Portable and programmable clinical EOG diagnostic system.

PubMed

Chen, S C; Tsai, T T; Luo, C H

2000-01-01

Monitoring eye movements is clinically important in diagnosis of diseases of the central nervous system. Electrooculography (EOG) is one method of obtaining such records which uses skin electrodes, and utilizes the anterior posterior polarization of the eye. A new EOG diagnostic system has been developed that utilizes two off-the-shelf portable notebook computers, one projector and simple electronic hardware. It can be operated under Windows 95, 98, NT, and has significant advantages over any other similar equipment, including programmability, portability, improved safety and low cost. Especially, portability of the instrument is extremely important for acutely ill or handicapped patients. The purpose of this paper is to introduce the techniques of computer animation, data acquisition, real time analysis of measured data, and database management to implement a portable, programmable and inexpensive contacting EOG instrument. It is very convenient to replace the present expensive, inflexible and large-sized commercially available EOG instruments. A lot of interesting stimulation patterns for clinical application can be created easily in different shape, time sequence, and colour by programming in Delphi language. With the help of Winstar (a software package that is used to control I/O and interrupt functions of the computer under Windows 95, 98, NT), the I/O communication between two notebook computers and A/D interface module can be effectively programmed. In addition, the new EOG diagnostic system is battery operated and it has the advantages of low noise as well as isolation from electricity. Two kinds of EOG tests, pursuit and saccade, were performed on 20 normal subjects with this new portable and programmable instrument. Based on the test result, the performance of the new instrument is superior to the other commercially available instruments. In conclusion, we hope that it will be more convenient for doctors and researchers to do the clinical EOG diagnosis and basic medical science research by using this new creation.

Automated extraction and validation of children's gait parameters with the Kinect.

PubMed

Motiian, Saeid; Pergami, Paola; Guffey, Keegan; Mancinelli, Corrie A; Doretto, Gianfranco

2015-12-02

Gait analysis for therapy regimen prescription and monitoring requires patients to physically access clinics with specialized equipment. The timely availability of such infrastructure at the right frequency is especially important for small children. Besides being very costly, this is a challenge for many children living in rural areas. This is why this work develops a low-cost, portable, and automated approach for in-home gait analysis, based on the Microsoft Kinect. A robust and efficient method for extracting gait parameters is introduced, which copes with the high variability of noisy Kinect skeleton tracking data experienced across the population of young children. This is achieved by temporally segmenting the data with an approach based on coupling a probabilistic matching of stride template models, learned offline, with the estimation of their global and local temporal scaling. A preliminary study conducted on healthy children between 2 and 4 years of age is performed to analyze the accuracy, precision, repeatability, and concurrent validity of the proposed method against the GAITRite when measuring several spatial and temporal children's gait parameters. The method has excellent accuracy and good precision, with segmenting temporal sequences of body joint locations into stride and step cycles. Also, the spatial and temporal gait parameters, estimated automatically, exhibit good concurrent validity with those provided by the GAITRite, as well as very good repeatability. In particular, on a range of nine gait parameters, the relative and absolute agreements were found to be good and excellent, and the overall agreements were found to be good and moderate. This work enables and validates the automated use of the Kinect for children's gait analysis in healthy subjects. In particular, the approach makes a step forward towards developing a low-cost, portable, parent-operated in-home tool for clinicians assisting young children.

Design and development of a low-cost biphasic charge-balanced functional electric stimulator and its clinical validation.

PubMed

Shendkar, Chandrashekhar; Lenka, Prasanna K; Biswas, Abhishek; Kumar, Ratnesh; Mahadevappa, Manjunatha

2015-10-01

Functional electric stimulators that produce near-ideal, charge-balanced biphasic stimulation waveforms with interphase delay are considered safer and more efficacious than conventional stimulators. An indigenously designed, low-cost, portable FES device named InStim is developed. It features a charge-balanced biphasic single channel. The authors present the complete design, mathematical analysis of the circuit and the clinical evaluation of the device. The developed circuit was tested on stroke patients affected by foot drop problems. It was tested both under laboratory conditions and in clinical settings. The key building blocks of this circuit are low dropout regulators, a DC-DC voltage booster and a single high-power current source OP-Amp with current-limiting capabilities. This allows the device to deliver high-voltage, constant current, biphasic pulses without the use of a bulky step-up transformer. The advantages of the proposed design over the currently existing devices include improved safety features (zero DC current, current-limiting mechanism and safe pulses), waveform morphology that causes less muscle fatigue, cost-effectiveness and compact power-efficient circuit design with minimal components. The device is also capable of producing appropriate ankle dorsiflexion in patients having foot drop problems of various Medical Research Council scale grades.

Automated Low-Cost Smartphone-Based Lateral Flow Saliva Test Reader for Drugs-of-Abuse Detection

PubMed Central

Carrio, Adrian; Sampedro, Carlos; Sanchez-Lopez, Jose Luis; Pimienta, Miguel; Campoy, Pascual

2015-01-01

Lateral flow assay tests are nowadays becoming powerful, low-cost diagnostic tools. Obtaining a result is usually subject to visual interpretation of colored areas on the test by a human operator, introducing subjectivity and the possibility of errors in the extraction of the results. While automated test readers providing a result-consistent solution are widely available, they usually lack portability. In this paper, we present a smartphone-based automated reader for drug-of-abuse lateral flow assay tests, consisting of an inexpensive light box and a smartphone device. Test images captured with the smartphone camera are processed in the device using computer vision and machine learning techniques to perform automatic extraction of the results. A deep validation of the system has been carried out showing the high accuracy of the system. The proposed approach, applicable to any line-based or color-based lateral flow test in the market, effectively reduces the manufacturing costs of the reader and makes it portable and massively available while providing accurate, reliable results. PMID:26610513

Portable thin layer chromatography for field detection of explosives and propellants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Satcher, Joe H.; Maienschein, Jon L.; Pagoria, Philip F.; Racoveanu, Ana; Carman, M. Leslie; Whipple, Richard E.; Reynolds, John G.

2012-06-01

A field deployable detection kit for explosives and propellants using thin layer chromatography (TLC) has been developed at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). The chemistry of the kit has been modified to allow for field detection of propellants (through propellant stabilizers), military explosives, peroxide explosives, nitrates and inorganic oxidizer precursors. For many of these target analytes, the detection limit is in the μg to pg range. A new miniaturized, bench prototype, field portable TLC (Micro TLC) kit has also been developed for the detection and identification of common military explosives. It has been demonstrated in a laboratory environment and is ready for field-testing. The kit is comprised of a low cost set of commercially available components specifically assembled for rapid identification needed in the field and identifies the common military explosives: HMX, RDX, Tetryl, Explosive D or picric acid, and TNT all on one plate. Additional modifications of the Micro TLC system have been made with fluorescent organosilicon co-polymer coatings to detect a large suite of explosives.

Innovative approach towards understanding optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garg, Amit; Bharadwaj, Sadashiv Raj; Kumar, Raj; Shudhanshu, Avinash Kumar; Verma, Deepak Kumar

2016-01-01

Over the last few years, there has been a decline in the students’ interest towards Science and Optics. Use of technology in the form of various types of sensors and data acquisition systems has come as a saviour. Till date, manual routine tools and techniques are used to perform various experimental procedures in most of the science/optics laboratories in our country. The manual tools are cumbersome whereas the automated ones are costly. It does not enthuse young researchers towards the science laboratories. There is a need to develop applications which can be easily integrated, tailored at school and undergraduate level laboratories and are economical at the same time. Equipments with advanced technologies are available but they are uneconomical and have complicated working principle with a black box approach. The present work describes development of portable tools and applications which are user-friendly. This is being implemented using open-source physical computing platform based on a simple low cost microcontroller board and a development environment for writing software. The present paper reports the development of an automated spectrometer, an instrument used in almost all optics experiments at undergraduate level, and students’ response to this innovation. These tools will inspire young researchers towards science and facilitate development of advance low cost equipments making life easier for Indian as well as developing nations.

Development of a micro nuclear magnetic resonance system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goloshevsky, Artem

Application of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) to on-line/in-line control of industrial processes is currently limited by equipment costs and requirements for installation. A superconducting magnet generating strong fields is the most expensive part of a typical NMR instrument. In industrial environments, fringe magnetic fields make accommodation of NMR instruments difficult. However, a portable, low-cost and low-field magnetic resonance system can be used in virtually any environment. Development of a number of hardware components for a portable, low-cost NMR instrument is reported in this dissertation. Chapter one provides a discussion on a miniaturized Helmholtz spiral radio-frequency (RF) coil (average diameter equal to 3.5 mm) and an NMR probe built around a capillary (outer diameter = 1.59 mm and inner diameter = 1.02 mm) for flow imaging. Experiments of NMR spectroscopy, static and dynamic (flow) imaging, conducted with the use of the miniaturized coil, are described. Chapter two presents a microfabricated package of two biaxial gradient coils and a Helmholtz RF coil. Planar configuration of discrete wires was used to create magnetic field gradients. Performance of the microfabricated gradient coils while imaging water flow compared well with a commercial gradient set of much larger size. Chapter three reports on flow imaging experiments with power law fluids (aqueous solutions of sodium salt of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)) of different viscosities, carried out in the NMR probe with the miniaturized RF coil and capillary. Viscosities of the CMC solutions were determined based on the curve fits of the velocity profiles and simultaneous measurements of the flow rates. The curve fits were carried out according to the power law model equations. The NMR viscosity measurements compared well with measurements of the same CMC samples, performed on a conventional rotational rheometer. A portable, home-built transceiver, designed for NMR applications utilizing a miniaturized RF coil, is described in chapter four. The maximum RF power, occurring in the transceiver, was 21.5 dBm. Two transistor-transistor logic (TTL) switches functioned as an active duplexer. A quadrature detection scheme was used. The transceiver, combined with a filter/amplifier module, data acquisition (DAQ and RF generating PC boards, was successfully tested in NMR spectroscopy experiments at low magnetic field. It was demonstrated that, starting with the RF probe, a typical, large size NMR instrument can be miniaturized without impairment to the quality of the data. Such an instrument will be readily used in many industrial process control applications (e.g. for analysis of material properties and identification of chemicals).

Flexible shielding system for radiation protection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Babin, A.

1972-01-01

Modular construction of low cost flexible radiation shielding panels consists of water filled steels cans, zinc bromide windows, turntable unit, master-slave manipulators, and interlocking lead bricks. Easy modifications of shielding wall thicknesses are obtained by rearranging overall geometry of portable components.

Development, Calibration and Evaluation of a Portable and Direct Georeferenced Laser Scanning System for Kinematic 3D Mapping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heinz, Erik; Eling, Christian; Wieland, Markus; Klingbeil, Lasse; Kuhlmann, Heiner

2015-12-01

In recent years, kinematic laser scanning has become increasingly popular because it offers many benefits compared to static laser scanning. The advantages include both saving of time in the georeferencing and a more favorable scanning geometry. Often mobile laser scanning systems are installed on wheeled platforms, which may not reach all parts of the object. Hence, there is an interest in the development of portable systems, which remain operational even in inaccessible areas. The development of such a portable laser scanning system is presented in this paper. It consists of a lightweight direct georeferencing unit for the position and attitude determination and a small low-cost 2D laser scanner. This setup provides advantages over existing portable systems that employ heavy and expensive 3D laser scanners in a profiling mode. A special emphasis is placed on the system calibration, i. e. the determination of the transformation between the coordinate frames of the direct georeferencing unit and the 2D laser scanner. To this end, a calibration field is used, which consists of differently orientated georeferenced planar surfaces, leading to estimates for the lever arms and boresight angles with an accuracy of mm and one-tenth of a degree. Finally, point clouds of the mobile laser scanning system are compared with georeferenced point clouds of a high-precision 3D laser scanner. Accordingly, the accuracy of the system is in the order of cm to dm. This is in good agreement with the expected accuracy, which has been derived from the error propagation of previously estimated variance components.

PEP-on-DEP: A competitive peptide-based disposable electrochemical aptasensor for renin diagnostics.

PubMed

Biyani, Manish; Kawai, Keiko; Kitamura, Koichiro; Chikae, Miyuki; Biyani, Madhu; Ushijima, Hiromi; Tamiya, Eiichi; Yoneda, Takashi; Takamura, Yuzuru

2016-10-15

Antibody-based immunosensors are relatively less accessible to a wide variety of unreachable targets, such as low-molecular-weight biomarkers that represent a rich untapped source of disease-specific diagnostic information. Here, we present a peptide aptamer-based electrochemical sensor technology called 'PEP-on-DEP' to detect less accessible target molecules, such as renin, and to improve the quality of life. Peptide-based aptamers represent a relatively smart class of affinity binders and show great promise in biosensor development. Renin is involved in the regulation of arterial blood pressure and is an emerging biomarker protein for predicting cardiovascular risk and prognosis. To our knowledge, no studies have described aptamer molecules that can be used as new potent probes for renin. Here, we describe a portable electrochemical biosensor platform based on the newly identified peptide aptamer molecules for renin. We constructed a randomized octapeptide library pool with diversified sequences and selected renin specific peptide aptamers using cDNA display technology. We identified a few peptide aptamer sequences with a KD in the µM binding affinity range for renin. Next, we grafted the selected peptide aptamers onto gold nanoparticles and detected renin in a one-step competitive assay using our originally developed DEP (Disposable Electrochemical Printed) chip and a USB powered portable potentiostat system. We successfully detected renin in as little as 300ngmL(-1) using the PEP-on-DEP method. Thus, the generation and characterization of novel probes for unreachable target molecules by merging a newly identified peptide aptamer with electrochemical transduction allowed for the development of a more practical biosensor that, in principle, can be adapted to develop a portable, low-cost and mass-producible biosensor for point-of-care applications. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

3D Integration for Wireless Multimedia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kimmich, Georg

The convergence of mobile phone, internet, mapping, gaming and office automation tools with high quality video and still imaging capture capability is becoming a strong market trend for portable devices. High-density video encode and decode, 3D graphics for gaming, increased application-software complexity and ultra-high-bandwidth 4G modem technologies are driving the CPU performance and memory bandwidth requirements close to the PC segment. These portable multimedia devices are battery operated, which requires the deployment of new low-power-optimized silicon process technologies and ultra-low-power design techniques at system, architecture and device level. Mobile devices also need to comply with stringent silicon-area and package-volume constraints. As for all consumer devices, low production cost and fast time-to-volume production is key for success. This chapter shows how 3D architectures can bring a possible breakthrough to meet the conflicting power, performance and area constraints. Multiple 3D die-stacking partitioning strategies are described and analyzed on their potential to improve the overall system power, performance and cost for specific application scenarios. Requirements and maturity of the basic process-technology bricks including through-silicon via (TSV) and die-to-die attachment techniques are reviewed. Finally, we highlight new challenges which will arise with 3D stacking and an outlook on how they may be addressed: Higher power density will require thermal design considerations, new EDA tools will need to be developed to cope with the integration of heterogeneous technologies and to guarantee signal and power integrity across the die stack. The silicon/wafer test strategies have to be adapted to handle high-density IO arrays, ultra-thin wafers and provide built-in self-test of attached memories. New standards and business models have to be developed to allow cost-efficient assembly and testing of devices from different silicon and technology providers.

Length-free near infrared measurement of newborn malnutrition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mustafa, Fatin Hamimi; Bek, Emily J.; Huvanandana, Jacqueline; Jones, Peter W.; Carberry, Angela E.; Jeffery, Heather E.; Jin, Craig T.; McEwan, Alistair L.

2016-11-01

Under-nutrition in neonates can cause immediate mortality, impaired cognitive development and early onset adult disease. Body fat percentage measured using air-displacement-plethysmography has been found to better indicate under-nutrition than conventional birth weight percentiles. However, air-displacement-plethysmography equipment is expensive and non-portable, so is not suited for use in developing communities where the burden is often the greatest. We proposed a new body fat measurement technique using a length-free model with near-infrared spectroscopy measurements on a single site of the body - the thigh. To remove the need for length measurement, we developed a model with five discrete wavelengths and a sex parameter. The model was developed using air-displacement-plethysmography measurements in 52 neonates within 48 hours of birth. We identified instrumentation required in a low-cost LED-based screening device and incorporated a receptor device that can increase the amount of light collected. This near-infrared method may be suitable as a low cost screening tool for detecting body fat levels and monitoring nutritional interventions for malnutrition in neonates and young children in resource-constrained communities.

[Hemodynamics studies with the new generation portable systems: cost-benefit analysis].

PubMed

Vergara, G

2001-01-01

Coronary angiography facilities are usually available only in major medical centers despite an increasing utilization in managing patients with ischemic heart disease. In recent years portable fluoroscopic imaging systems have been developed to reduce costs and bring coronary angiography services closer to patients. Our experience with the OEC Medical System 9600 demonstrates that the portable systems of new generation are reliable both regarding the quality of coronary angiograms and the routine use in a multipurpose cardiac catheterization laboratory. This statement is based on our 1-year experience (1999) with a caseload of 740 studies or procedures: 342 coronary angiographic studies, 159 electrophysiological studies, 74 radiofrequency catheter ablations, 126 pacemaker implantations/replacements, 16 cardioverter-defibrillator implantations/replacements, and 23 other studies or procedures. The mean cost of a coronary angiography was Itl 512,000 (265 Euro) in the in-house laboratory; it would have been Itl 694,000 (359 Euro) in the historical scenario, i.e. with referral to a 25 km distant laboratory, with Itl 182,000 (94 Euro) saved. Our experience is consistent with the accepted criteria of good laboratory performance and cost-effectiveness.

Acceptability and Use of Portable Drinking Water and Hand Washing Stations in Health Care Facilities and Their Impact on Patient Hygiene Practices, Western Kenya

PubMed Central

Otieno, Ronald; Odhiambo, Aloyce; Faith, Sitnah H.

2015-01-01

Many health care facilities (HCF) in developing countries lack access to reliable hand washing stations and safe drinking water. To address this problem, we installed portable, low-cost hand washing stations (HWS) and drinking water stations (DWS), and trained healthcare workers (HCW) on hand hygiene, safe drinking water, and patient education techniques at 200 rural HCFs lacking a reliable water supply in western Kenya. We performed a survey at baseline and a follow-up evaluation at 15 months to assess the impact of the intervention at a random sample of 40 HCFs and 391 households nearest to these HCFs. From baseline to follow-up, there was a statistically significant increase in the percentage of dispensaries with access to HWSs with soap (42% vs. 77%, p<0.01) and access to safe drinking water (6% vs. 55%, p<0.01). Female heads of household in the HCF catchment area exhibited statistically significant increases from baseline to follow-up in the ability to state target times for hand washing (10% vs. 35%, p<0.01), perform all four hand washing steps correctly (32% vs. 43%, p = 0.01), and report treatment of stored drinking water using any method (73% vs. 92%, p<0.01); the percentage of households with detectable free residual chlorine in stored drinking water did not change (6%, vs. 8%, p = 0.14). The installation of low-cost, low-maintenance, locally-available, portable hand washing and drinking water stations in rural HCFs without access to 24-hour piped water helped assure that health workers had a place to wash their hands and provide safe drinking water. This HCF intervention may have also contributed to the improvement of hand hygiene and reported safe drinking water behaviors among households nearest to HCFs. PMID:25961293

Acceptability and use of portable drinking water and hand washing stations in health care facilities and their impact on patient hygiene practices, Western kenya.

PubMed

Bennett, Sarah D; Otieno, Ronald; Ayers, Tracy L; Odhiambo, Aloyce; Faith, Sitnah H; Quick, Robert

2015-01-01

Many health care facilities (HCF) in developing countries lack access to reliable hand washing stations and safe drinking water. To address this problem, we installed portable, low-cost hand washing stations (HWS) and drinking water stations (DWS), and trained healthcare workers (HCW) on hand hygiene, safe drinking water, and patient education techniques at 200 rural HCFs lacking a reliable water supply in western Kenya. We performed a survey at baseline and a follow-up evaluation at 15 months to assess the impact of the intervention at a random sample of 40 HCFs and 391 households nearest to these HCFs. From baseline to follow-up, there was a statistically significant increase in the percentage of dispensaries with access to HWSs with soap (42% vs. 77%, p<0.01) and access to safe drinking water (6% vs. 55%, p<0.01). Female heads of household in the HCF catchment area exhibited statistically significant increases from baseline to follow-up in the ability to state target times for hand washing (10% vs. 35%, p<0.01), perform all four hand washing steps correctly (32% vs. 43%, p = 0.01), and report treatment of stored drinking water using any method (73% vs. 92%, p<0.01); the percentage of households with detectable free residual chlorine in stored drinking water did not change (6%, vs. 8%, p = 0.14). The installation of low-cost, low-maintenance, locally-available, portable hand washing and drinking water stations in rural HCFs without access to 24-hour piped water helped assure that health workers had a place to wash their hands and provide safe drinking water. This HCF intervention may have also contributed to the improvement of hand hygiene and reported safe drinking water behaviors among households nearest to HCFs.

Thermal infrared reference sources fabricated from low-cost components and materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hovland, Harald; Skauli, Torbjørn

2018-04-01

Mass markets, including mobile phones and automotive sensors, drive rapid developments of imaging technologies toward high performance, low cost sensors, even for the thermal infrared. Good infrared calibration blackbody sources have remained relatively costly, however. Here we demonstrate how to make low-cost reference sources, making quantitative infrared radiometry more accessible to a wider community. Our approach uses ordinary construction materials combined with low cost microcontrollers, digital temperature sensors and foil heater elements from massmarket 3D printers. Blackbodies are constructed from a foil heater of some chosen size and shape, attached to the back of a similarly shaped aluminum plate coated with commercial black paint, which normally exhibits high emissivity. The emissivity can be readily checked by using a thermal imager to view the reflection of a hot object. A digital temperature sensor is attached to the back of the plate. Thermal isolation of the backside minimizes temperature gradients through the plate, ensuring correct readings of the front temperature. The isolation also serves to minimize convection gradients and keeps power consumption low, which is useful for battery powered operation in the field. We demonstrate surface blackbodies (200x200 mm2) with surface homogeneities as low as 0.1°C at 100°C. Homogeneous heating and low thermal mass provides for fast settling time and setup/pack-down time. The approach is scalable to larger sizes by tiling, enabling portable and foldable square-meter-size or larger devices.

Printable thermoelectric devices and conductive patterns for medical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jungmin; Kim, Hyunjung; Chen, Linfeng; Choi, Sang H.; Varadan, Vijay K.

2012-10-01

Remote point-of-care is expected to revolutionize the modern medical practice, and many efforts have been made for the development of wireless health monitoring systems for continuously detecting the physiological signals of patients. To make the remote point-of-care generally accepted and widely used, it is necessary to develop cost-effective and durable wireless health monitoring systems. Printing technique will be helpful for the fabrication of high-quality and low-cost medical devices and systems because it allows high-resolution and high-speed fabrication, low material consumption and nano-sized patterning on both flexible and rigid substrates. Furthermore, application of thermoelectric generators can replace conventional batteries as the power sources for wireless health monitoring systems because thermoelectric generators can convert the wasted heat or the heat from nature into electricity which is required for the operation of the wireless health monitoring systems. In this research, we propose the concept of printable thermoelectric devices and conductive patterns for the realization of more portable and cost-effective medical devices. To print thermoelectric generators and conductive patterns on substrates, printing inks with special characteristics should be developed. For the development of thermoelectric inks, nano-structured thermoelectric materials are synthesized and characterized; and for the development of conductive inks, two kinds of surface treated carbon nanotubes are used as active materials.

Recent trends in atomic fluorescence spectrometry towards miniaturized instrumentation-A review.

PubMed

Zou, Zhirong; Deng, Yujia; Hu, Jing; Jiang, Xiaoming; Hou, Xiandeng

2018-08-17

Atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS), as one of the common atomic spectrometric techniques with high sensitivity, simple instrumentation, and low acquisition and running cost, has been widely used in various fields for trace elemental analysis, notably the determination of hydride-forming elements by hydride generation atomic fluorescence spectrometry (HG-AFS). In recent years, the soaring demand of field analysis has significantly promoted the miniaturization of analytical atomic spectrometers or at least instrumental components. Various techniques have also been developed to approach the goal of portable/miniaturized AFS instrumentation for field analysis. In this review, potentially portable/miniaturized AFS techniques, primarily involving advanced instrumental components and whole instrumentation with references since 2000, are summarized and discussed. The discussion mainly includes five aspects: radiation source, atomizer, detector, sample introduction, and miniaturized atomic fluorescence spectrometer/system. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Coherent fiber supercontinuum for biophotonics

PubMed Central

Tu, Haohua; Boppart, Stephen A.

2013-01-01

Biophotonics and nonlinear fiber optics have traditionally been two independent fields. Since the discovery of fiber-based supercontinuum generation in 1999, biophotonics applications employing incoherent light have experienced a large impact from nonlinear fiber optics, primarily because of the access to a wide range of wavelengths and a uniform spatial profile afforded by fiber supercontinuum. However, biophotonics applications employing coherent light have not benefited from the most well-known techniques of supercontinuum generation for reasons such as poor coherence (or high noise), insufficient controllability, and inadequate portability. Fortunately, a few key techniques involving nonlinear fiber optics and femtosecond laser development have emerged to overcome these critical limitations. Despite their relative independence, these techniques are the focus of this review, because they can be integrated into a low-cost portable biophotonics source platform. This platform can be shared across many different areas of research in biophotonics, enabling new applications such as point-of-care coherent optical biomedical imaging. PMID:24358056

Samba: a real-time motion capture system using wireless camera sensor networks.

PubMed

Oh, Hyeongseok; Cha, Geonho; Oh, Songhwai

2014-03-20

There is a growing interest in 3D content following the recent developments in 3D movies, 3D TVs and 3D smartphones. However, 3D content creation is still dominated by professionals, due to the high cost of 3D motion capture instruments. The availability of a low-cost motion capture system will promote 3D content generation by general users and accelerate the growth of the 3D market. In this paper, we describe the design and implementation of a real-time motion capture system based on a portable low-cost wireless camera sensor network. The proposed system performs motion capture based on the data-driven 3D human pose reconstruction method to reduce the computation time and to improve the 3D reconstruction accuracy. The system can reconstruct accurate 3D full-body poses at 16 frames per second using only eight markers on the subject's body. The performance of the motion capture system is evaluated extensively in experiments.

Samba: A Real-Time Motion Capture System Using Wireless Camera Sensor Networks

PubMed Central

Oh, Hyeongseok; Cha, Geonho; Oh, Songhwai

2014-01-01

There is a growing interest in 3D content following the recent developments in 3D movies, 3D TVs and 3D smartphones. However, 3D content creation is still dominated by professionals, due to the high cost of 3D motion capture instruments. The availability of a low-cost motion capture system will promote 3D content generation by general users and accelerate the growth of the 3D market. In this paper, we describe the design and implementation of a real-time motion capture system based on a portable low-cost wireless camera sensor network. The proposed system performs motion capture based on the data-driven 3D human pose reconstruction method to reduce the computation time and to improve the 3D reconstruction accuracy. The system can reconstruct accurate 3D full-body poses at 16 frames per second using only eight markers on the subject's body. The performance of the motion capture system is evaluated extensively in experiments. PMID:24658618

Low-Cost, Portable, Multi-Wall Virtual Reality

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, Samuel A.; Misch, Noah J.; Dalton, Aaron J.

2005-01-01

Virtual reality systems make compelling outreach displays, but some such systems, like the CAVE, have design features that make their use for that purpose inconvenient. In the case of the CAVE, the equipment is difficult to disassemble, transport, and reassemble, and typically CAVEs can only be afforded by large-budget research facilities. We implemented a system like the CAVE that costs less than $30,000, weighs about 500 pounds, and fits into a fifteen-passenger van. A team of six people have unpacked, assembled, and calibrated the system in less than two hours. This cost reduction versus similar virtual-reality systems stems from the unique approach we took to stereoscopic projection. We used an assembly of optical chopper wheels and commodity LCD projectors to create true active stereo at less than a fifth of the cost of comparable active-stereo technologies. The screen and frame design also optimized portability; the frame assembles in minutes with only two fasteners, and both it and the screen pack into small bundles for easy and secure shipment.

Benzimidazole derivatives: selective fluorescent chemosensors for the picogram detection of picric acid.

PubMed

Xiong, Jin-Feng; Li, Jian-Xiao; Mo, Guang-Zhen; Huo, Jing-Pei; Liu, Jin-Yan; Chen, Xiao-Yun; Wang, Zhao-Yang

2014-12-05

1,3,5-Tri(1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)benzene derivatives, as a new kind of fluorescent chemosensor for the detection of nitroaromatic explosives, are designed and synthesized by simple N-hydrocarbylation. Among 16 obtained compounds, compound 4g has the best capability for detection of picric acid (PA), having good selectivity and high sensitivity. The detection of PA with 4g solution-coated paper strips at the picogram level is developed. A simple, portable, and low-cost method is provided for detecting PA in solution and contact mode.

All-Iron Redox Flow Battery Tailored for Off-Grid Portable Applications.

PubMed

Tucker, Michael C; Phillips, Adam; Weber, Adam Z

2015-12-07

An all-iron redox flow battery is proposed and developed for end users without access to an electricity grid. The concept is a low-cost battery which the user assembles, discharges, and then disposes of the active materials. The design goals are: (1) minimize upfront cost, (2) maximize discharge energy, and (3) utilize non-toxic and environmentally benign materials. These are different goals than typically considered for electrochemical battery technology, which provides the opportunity for a novel solution. The selected materials are: low-carbon-steel negative electrode, paper separator, porous-carbon-paper positive electrode, and electrolyte solution containing 0.5 m Fe2 (SO4 )3 active material and 1.2 m NaCl supporting electrolyte. With these materials, an average power density around 20 mW cm(-2) and a maximum energy density of 11.5 Wh L(-1) are achieved. A simple cost model indicates the consumable materials cost US$6.45 per kWh(-1) , or only US$0.034 per mobile phone charge. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

All-Iron Redox Flow Battery Tailored for Off-Grid Portable Applications

DOE PAGES

Tucker, Michael C.; Phillips, Adam; Weber, Adam Z.

2015-11-20

We proposed and developed an all-iron redox flow battery for end users without access to an electricity grid. The concept is a low-cost battery which the user assembles, discharges, and then disposes of the active materials. Our design goals are: (1) minimize upfront cost, (2) maximize discharge energy, and (3) utilize non-toxic and environmentally benign materials. These are different goals than typically considered for electrochemical battery technology, which provides the opportunity for a novel solution. The selected materials are: low-carbon-steel negative electrode, paper separator, porous-carbon-paper positive electrode, and electrolyte solution containing 0.5 m Fe 2 (SO 4 ) 3 activemore » material and 1.2 m NaCl supporting electrolyte. Furthermore, with these materials, an average power density around 20 mW cm -2 and a maximum energy density of 11.5 Wh L -1 are achieved. A simple cost model indicates the consumable materials cost US$6.45 per kWh -1 , or only US$0.034 per mobile phone charge.« less

Recent Advances in Paper-Based Sensors

PubMed Central

Liana, Devi D.; Raguse, Burkhard; Gooding, J. Justin; Chow, Edith

2012-01-01

Paper-based sensors are a new alternative technology for fabricating simple, low-cost, portable and disposable analytical devices for many application areas including clinical diagnosis, food quality control and environmental monitoring. The unique properties of paper which allow passive liquid transport and compatibility with chemicals/biochemicals are the main advantages of using paper as a sensing platform. Depending on the main goal to be achieved in paper-based sensors, the fabrication methods and the analysis techniques can be tuned to fulfill the needs of the end-user. Current paper-based sensors are focused on microfluidic delivery of solution to the detection site whereas more advanced designs involve complex 3-D geometries based on the same microfluidic principles. Although paper-based sensors are very promising, they still suffer from certain limitations such as accuracy and sensitivity. However, it is anticipated that in the future, with advances in fabrication and analytical techniques, that there will be more new and innovative developments in paper-based sensors. These sensors could better meet the current objectives of a viable low-cost and portable device in addition to offering high sensitivity and selectivity, and multiple analyte discrimination. This paper is a review of recent advances in paper-based sensors and covers the following topics: existing fabrication techniques, analytical methods and application areas. Finally, the present challenges and future outlooks are discussed. PMID:23112667

Draw your assay: Fabrication of low-cost paper-based diagnostic and multi-well test zones by drawing on a paper.

PubMed

Oyola-Reynoso, Stephanie; Heim, Andrew P; Halbertsma-Black, Julian; Zhao, C; Tevis, Ian D; Çınar, Simge; Cademartiri, Rebecca; Liu, Xinyu; Bloch, Jean-Francis; Thuo, Martin M

2015-11-01

Interest in low-cost diagnostic devices has recently gained attention, in part due to the rising cost of healthcare and the need to serve populations in resource-limited settings. A major challenge in the development of such devices is the need for hydrophobic barriers to contain polar bio-fluid analytes. Key approaches in lowering the cost in diagnostics have centered on (i) development of low-cost fabrication techniques/processes, (ii) use of affordable materials, or, (iii) minimizing the need for high-tech tools. This communication describes a simple, low-cost, adaptable, and portable method for patterning paper and subsequent use of the patterned paper in diagnostic tests. Our approach generates hydrophobic regions using a ball-point pen filled with a hydrophobizing molecule suspended in a solvent carrier. An empty ball-point pen was filled with a solution of trichloro perfluoroalkyl silane in hexanes (or hexadecane), and the pen used to draw lines on Whatman® chromatography 1 paper. The drawn regions defined the test zones since the trichloro silane reacts with the paper to give a hydrophobic barrier. The formation of the hydrophobic barriers is reaction kinetic and diffusion-limited, ensuring well defined narrow barriers. We performed colorimetric glucose assays and enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assay (ELISA) using the created test zones. To demonstrate the versatility of this approach, we fabricated multiple devices on a single piece of paper and demonstrated the reproducibility of assays on these devices. The overall cost of devices fabricated by drawing are relatively lower (

A low cost, simple, portable instrument for the measurement of infra-red reflectance of paints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marson, F.

1982-05-01

The construction and design of a low cost, simple, portable infra-red reflectometer which can be used to estimate the reflectance of paint films in the 800 nm region is described. The infra-red reflectances of a range of lustreless, semigloss and gloss olive drab camouflage paints determined using this instrument are compared to those obtained using modified commercial equipment and to the reflectances measured at 800 nm using a Cary model 17 spectrophotometer. The new reflectometer was shown to be superior to the modified commercial instrument currently specified in Australian government paint specifications and to be capable of estimating the reflectance of olive drab paints to within about one per cent of the Cary derived reflectance values. The reflectance values for a range of 24 experimental coatings made with pigments of varying absorption in the infra-red region are used to illustrate the effect of the instrument's spectral response and the necessity of establishing a reliable working standard.

Exploring the Potential of Podcasting to Deliver Mobile Ubiquitous Learning in Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lee, Mark J. W.; Chan, Anthony

2006-01-01

Podcasting facilitates the timely delivery of digital audio content such as MP3 files to a user's desktop, as it becomes available. The authors believe it holds tremendous potential as a low-cost, low-barrier tool for mobile ubiquitous learning, given the large uptake of portable music players. This paper explores some of the possibilities for…

Investigating Low-Cost Optical Spectroscopy for Sensing Pressure Ulcers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mirchandani, Smruti Suresh

Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy has been used widely to characterize tissue properties for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. This thesis focuses on the use of spectroscopy for early pressure ulcer detection. The most common early diagnosis technique for pressure ulcers is a blanch test. A major issue with a blanch test is that it is purely visual and cannot be visibly observed on dark skinned individuals. Studies have already proven that spectroscopy can be used to detect blanch response in skin across light and dark skinned individuals. The portable reflectance spectroscopy setup showed that pressure changes to the skin can be detected spectroscopically. Some work on an iPhone based spectrometer was also done to have a low-cost spectroscopy alternative to the usual DRS equipment. This study failed to develop an iPhone based spectrometer but various factors that can be changed to better this research have been mentioned in this thesis.

An Instantaneous Low-Cost Point-of-Care Anemia Detection Device

PubMed Central

Punter-Villagrasa, Jaime; Cid, Joan; Páez-Avilés, Cristina; Rodríguez-Villarreal, Ivón; Juanola-Feliu, Esteve; Colomer-Farrarons, Jordi; Miribel-Català, Pere Ll.

2015-01-01

We present a small, compact and portable device for point-of-care instantaneous early detection of anemia. The method used is based on direct hematocrit measurement from whole blood samples by means of impedance analysis. This device consists of a custom electronic instrumentation and a plug-and-play disposable sensor. The designed electronics rely on straightforward standards for low power consumption, resulting in a robust and low consumption device making it completely mobile with a long battery life. Another approach could be powering the system based on other solutions like indoor solar cells, or applying energy-harvesting solutions in order to remove the batteries. The sensing system is based on a disposable low-cost label-free three gold electrode commercial sensor for 50 μL blood samples. The device capability for anemia detection has been validated through 24 blood samples, obtained from four hospitalized patients at Hospital Clínic. As a result, the response, effectiveness and robustness of the portable point-of-care device to detect anemia has been proved with an accuracy error of 2.83% and a mean coefficient of variation of 2.57% without any particular case above 5%. PMID:25690552

Distributed processing for features improvement in real-time portable medical devices.

PubMed

Mercado, Erwin John Saavedra

2008-01-01

Portable biomedical devices are being developed and incorporated in daily life. Nevertheless, their standalone capacity is diminished due to the lack of processing power required to face such duties as for example, signal artifacts robustness in EKG monitor devices. The following paper presents a multiprocessor architecture made from simple microcontrollers to provide an increase in processing performance, power consumption efficiency and lower cost.

Portable low-cost devices for videotaping, editing, and displaying field-sequential stereoscopic motion pictures and video

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Starks, Michael R.

1990-09-01

A variety of low cost devices for capturing, editing and displaying field sequential 60 cycle stereoscopic video have recently been marketed by 3D TV Corp. and others. When properly used, they give very high quality images with most consumer and professional equipment. Our stereoscopic multiplexers for creating and editing field sequential video in NTSC or component(SVHS, Betacain, RGB) and Home 3D Theater system employing LCD eyeglasses have made 3D movies and television available to a large audience.

High-Efficiency Flexible Solar Cells Based on Organometal Halide Perovskites.

PubMed

Wang, Yuming; Bai, Sai; Cheng, Lu; Wang, Nana; Wang, Jianpu; Gao, Feng; Huang, Wei

2016-06-01

Flexible and light-weight solar cells are important because they not only supply power to wearable and portable devices, but also reduce the transportation and installation cost of solar panels. High-efficiency organometal halide perovskite solar cells can be fabricated by a low-temperature solution process, and hence are promising for flexible-solar-cell applications. Here, the development of perovskite solar cells is briefly discussed, followed by the merits of organometal halide perovskites as promising candidates as high-efficiency, flexible, and light-weight photovoltaic materials. Afterward, recent developments of flexible solar cells based on perovskites are reviewed. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Point-of-care, portable microfluidic blood analyzer system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maleki, Teimour; Fricke, Todd; Quesenberry, J. T.; Todd, Paul W.; Leary, James F.

2012-03-01

Recent advances in MEMS technology have provided an opportunity to develop microfluidic devices with enormous potential for portable, point-of-care, low-cost medical diagnostic tools. Hand-held flow cytometers will soon be used in disease diagnosis and monitoring. Despite much interest in miniaturizing commercially available cytometers, they remain costly, bulky, and require expert operation. In this article, we report progress on the development of a battery-powered handheld blood analyzer that will quickly and automatically process a drop of whole human blood by real-time, on-chip magnetic separation of white blood cells (WBCs), fluorescence analysis of labeled WBC subsets, and counting a reproducible fraction of the red blood cells (RBCs) by light scattering. The whole blood (WB) analyzer is composed of a micro-mixer, a special branching/separation system, an optical detection system, and electronic readout circuitry. A droplet of un-processed blood is mixed with the reagents, i.e. magnetic beads and fluorescent stain in the micro-mixer. Valve-less sorting is achieved by magnetic deflection of magnetic microparticle-labeled WBC. LED excitation in combination with an avalanche photodiode (APD) detection system is used for counting fluorescent WBC subsets using several colors of immune-Qdots, while counting a reproducible fraction of red blood cells (RBC) is performed using a laser light scatting measurement with a photodiode. Optimized branching/channel width is achieved using Comsol Multi-Physics™ simulation. To accommodate full portability, all required power supplies (40v, +/-10V, and +3V) are provided via step-up voltage converters from one battery. A simple onboard lock-in amplifier is used to increase the sensitivity/resolution of the pulse counting circuitry.

Robust ultrasensitive tunneling-FET biosensor for point-of-care diagnostics

PubMed Central

Gao, Anran; Lu, Na; Wang, Yuelin; Li, Tie

2016-01-01

For point-of-care (POC) applications, robust, ultrasensitive, small, rapid, low-power, and low-cost sensors are highly desirable. Here, we present a novel biosensor based on a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS)-compatible silicon nanowire tunneling field-effect transistor (SiNW-TFET). They were fabricated “top-down” with a low-cost anisotropic self-stop etching technique. Notably, the SiNW-TFET device provided strong anti-interference capacity by applying the inherent ambipolarity via both pH and CYFRA21-1 sensing. This offered a more robust and portable general protocol. The specific label-free detection of CYFRA21-1 down to 0.5 fgml−1 or ~12.5 aM was achieved using a highly responsive SiNW-TFET device with a minimum sub-threshold slope (SS) of 37 mVdec−1. Furthermore, real-time measurements highlighted the ability to use clinically relevant samples such as serum. The developed high performance diagnostic system is expected to provide a generic platform for numerous POC applications. PMID:26932158

A portable low-cost 3D point cloud acquiring method based on structure light

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gui, Li; Zheng, Shunyi; Huang, Xia; Zhao, Like; Ma, Hao; Ge, Chao; Tang, Qiuxia

2018-03-01

A fast and low-cost method of acquiring 3D point cloud data is proposed in this paper, which can solve the problems of lack of texture information and low efficiency of acquiring point cloud data with only one pair of cheap cameras and projector. Firstly, we put forward a scene adaptive design method of random encoding pattern, that is, a coding pattern is projected onto the target surface in order to form texture information, which is favorable for image matching. Subsequently, we design an efficient dense matching algorithm that fits the projected texture. After the optimization of global algorithm and multi-kernel parallel development with the fusion of hardware and software, a fast acquisition system of point-cloud data is accomplished. Through the evaluation of point cloud accuracy, the results show that point cloud acquired by the method proposed in this paper has higher precision. What`s more, the scanning speed meets the demand of dynamic occasion and has better practical application value.

On-site Rapid Diagnosis of Intracranial Hematoma using Portable Multi-slice Microwave Imaging System.

PubMed

Mobashsher, Ahmed Toaha; Abbosh, A M

2016-11-29

Rapid, on-the-spot diagnostic and monitoring systems are vital for the survival of patients with intracranial hematoma, as their conditions drastically deteriorate with time. To address the limited accessibility, high costs and static structure of currently used MRI and CT scanners, a portable non-invasive multi-slice microwave imaging system is presented for accurate 3D localization of hematoma inside human head. This diagnostic system provides fast data acquisition and imaging compared to the existing systems by means of a compact array of low-profile, unidirectional antennas with wideband operation. The 3D printed low-cost and portable system can be installed in an ambulance for rapid on-site diagnosis by paramedics. In this paper, the multi-slice head imaging system's operating principle is numerically analysed and experimentally validated on realistic head phantoms. Quantitative analyses demonstrate that the multi-slice head imaging system is able to generate better quality reconstructed images providing 70% higher average signal to clutter ratio, 25% enhanced maximum signal to clutter ratio and with around 60% hematoma target localization compared to the previous head imaging systems. Nevertheless, numerical and experimental results demonstrate that previous reported 2D imaging systems are vulnerable to localization error, which is overcome in the presented multi-slice 3D imaging system. The non-ionizing system, which uses safe levels of very low microwave power, is also tested on human subjects. Results of realistic phantom and subjects demonstrate the feasibility of the system in future preclinical trials.

Gas sensors boosted by two-dimensional h-BN enabled transfer on thin substrate foils: towards wearable and portable applications.

PubMed

Ayari, Taha; Bishop, Chris; Jordan, Matthew B; Sundaram, Suresh; Li, Xin; Alam, Saiful; ElGmili, Youssef; Patriarche, Gilles; Voss, Paul L; Salvestrini, Jean Paul; Ougazzaden, Abdallah

2017-11-09

The transfer of GaN based gas sensors to foreign substrates provides a pathway to enhance sensor performance, lower the cost and extend the applications to wearable, mobile or disposable systems. The main keys to unlocking this pathway is to grow and fabricate the sensors on large h-BN surface and to transfer them to the flexible substrate without any degradation of the performances. In this work, we develop a new generation of AlGaN/GaN gas sensors with boosted performances on a low cost flexible substrate. We fabricate 2-inch wafer scale AlGaN/GaN gas sensors on sacrificial two-dimensional (2D) nano-layered h-BN without any delamination or cracks and subsequently transfer sensors to an acrylic surface on metallic foil. This technique results in a modification of relevant device properties, leading to a doubling of the sensitivity to NO 2 gas and a response time that is more than 6 times faster than before transfer. This new approach for GaN-based sensor design opens new avenues for sensor improvement via transfer to more suitable substrates, and is promising for next-generation wearable and portable opto-electronic devices.

Portable bacterial identification system based on elastic light scatter patterns.

PubMed

Bae, Euiwon; Ying, Dawei; Kramer, Donald; Patsekin, Valery; Rajwa, Bartek; Holdman, Cheryl; Sturgis, Jennifer; Davisson, V Jo; Robinson, J Paul

2012-08-28

Conventional diagnosis and identification of bacteria requires shipment of samples to a laboratory for genetic and biochemical analysis. This process can take days and imposes significant delay to action in situations where timely intervention can save lives and reduce associated costs. To enable faster response to an outbreak, a low-cost, small-footprint, portable microbial-identification instrument using forward scatterometry has been developed. This device, weighing 9 lb and measuring 12 × 6 × 10.5 in., utilizes elastic light scatter (ELS) patterns to accurately capture bacterial colony characteristics and delivers the classification results via wireless access. The overall system consists of two CCD cameras, one rotational and one translational stage, and a 635-nm laser diode. Various software algorithms such as Hough transform, 2-D geometric moments, and the traveling salesman problem (TSP) have been implemented to provide colony count and circularity, centering process, and minimized travel time among colonies. Experiments were conducted with four bacteria genera using pure and mixed plate and as proof of principle a field test was conducted in four different locations where the average classification rate ranged between 95 and 100%.

Measurement of Retinal Sensitivity on Tablet Devices in Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

PubMed

Wu, Zhichao; Guymer, Robyn H; Jung, Chang J; Goh, Jonathan K; Ayton, Lauren N; Luu, Chi D; Lawson, David J; Turpin, Andrew; McKendrick, Allison M

2015-06-01

We compared measurements of central retinal sensitivity on a portable, low-cost tablet device to the established method of microperimetry in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A customized test designed to measure central retinal sensitivity (within the central 1° radius) on a tablet device was developed using an open-source platform called PsyPad. A total of 30 participants with AMD were included in this study, and all participants performed a practice test on PsyPad, followed by four tests of one eye and one test of the other eye. Participants then underwent standardized microperimetry examinations in both eyes. The average test duration on PsyPad was 53.9 ± 7.5 seconds, and no significant learning effect was observed over the examinations performed ( P = 1.000). The coefficient of repeatability of central retinal sensitivity between the first two examinations on PsyPad was ±1.76 dB. The mean central retinal sensitivity was not significantly different between PsyPad (25.7 ± 0.4 dB) and microperimetry (26.1 ± 0.4 dB, P = 0.094), and the 95% limits of agreement between the two measures were between -4.12 and 4.92 dB. The measurements of central retinal sensitivity can be performed effectively using a tablet device, displaying reasonably good agreement with those obtained using the established method of microperimetry. These findings highlight the potential of tablet devices as low-cost and portable tools for developing and performing visual function measures that can be easily and widely implemented.

Demonstrating and Measuring Relative Molar Magnetic Susceptibility Using a Neodymium Magnet

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Malerich, Charles; Ruff, Patricia K.; Bird, Aubrey

2004-01-01

An easy-to-see method for demonstrating and measuring the magnetic force between paramagnetic substance and a rare earth magnet is presented. The readily available trapezoid-shaped neodymium magnet and a low cost, easy-to-set-up, portable apparatus are used in the experiments.

Preliminary study of Low-Cost Micro Gas Turbine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fikri, M.; Ridzuan, M.; Salleh, Hamidon

2016-11-01

The electricity consumption nowadays has increased due to the increasing development of portable electronic devices. The development of low cost micro gas turbine engine, which is designed for the purposes of new electrical generation Micro turbines are a relatively new distributed generation technology being used for stationary energy generation applications. They are a type of combustion turbine that produces both heat and electricity on a relatively small scaled.. This research are focusing of developing a low-cost micro gas turbine engine based on automotive turbocharger and to evaluation the performance of the developed micro gas turbine. The test rig engine basically was constructed using a Nissan 45V3 automotive turbocharger, containing compressor and turbine assemblies on a common shaft. The operating performance of developed micro gas turbine was analyzed experimentally with the increment of 5000 RPM on the compressor speed. The speed of the compressor was limited at 70000 RPM and only 1000 degree Celsius at maximum were allowed to operate the system in order to avoid any failure on the turbocharger bearing and the other components. Performance parameters such as inlet temperature, compressor temperature, exhaust gas temperature, and fuel and air flow rates were measured. The data was collected electronically by 74972A data acquisition and evaluated manually by calculation. From the independent test shows the result of the system, The speed of the LP turbine can be reached up to 35000 RPM and produced 18.5kw of mechanical power.

[Study cost/effectiveness of portable fridges in the mobile unit of emergencies of Alcañiz (Teruel)].

PubMed

Mir Ramos, Eduardo; Martínez Tofé, Jesús; Castro Salanova, Rafael; Azón López, Esther; Corcuera Cantabrana, Ana; Sancho Pellicer, Antonio

2012-09-01

The maintenance of cold chain can result difficult in Emergency Mobil Units that's why the aim of this study is to value the effectiveness of portable fridges with/without compressor and its cost-effectiveness by a computer simulation. This descriptive, transversal and cost effectiveness analysis was developed in two Emergency Mobil Units of 061 Aragón of Alcañiz (Teruel) along a year. The results showed that in the fridge with compressor, the 93'8% of the temperatures was between 2 and 8 degrees C, where as in the fridge without compressor was of the 35,7%.The global and specific cost effectiveness ratio of the fridge with and without compressor were of 0,063 and 7,411 and of 0,080 and 147,55 respectively. Fridge with compressor was more cost-effective, amortizing quickly its initial cost. This fridge had a better and more efficient thermoregulation what supposed a better conservation of drugs and lower costs, according to the model of simulation.

Breath acetone monitoring by portable Si:WO3 gas sensors

PubMed Central

Righettoni, Marco; Tricoli, Antonio; Gass, Samuel; Schmid, Alex; Amann, Anton; Pratsinis, Sotiris E.

2013-01-01

Breath analysis has the potential for early stage detection and monitoring of illnesses to drastically reduce the corresponding medical diagnostic costs and improve the quality of life of patients suffering from chronic illnesses. In particular, the detection of acetone in the human breath is promising for non-invasive diagnosis and painless monitoring of diabetes (no finger pricking). Here, a portable acetone sensor consisting of flame-deposited and in situ annealed, Si-doped epsilon-WO3 nanostructured films was developed. The chamber volume was miniaturized while reaction-limited and transport-limited gas flow rates were identified and sensing temperatures were optimized resulting in a low detection limit of acetone (~20 ppb) with short response (10–15 s) and recovery times (35–70 s). Furthermore, the sensor signal (response) was robust against variations of the exhaled breath flow rate facilitating application of these sensors at realistic relative humidities (80–90%) as in the human breath. The acetone content in the breath of test persons was monitored continuously and compared to that of state-of-the-art proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS). Such portable devices can accurately track breath acetone concentration to become an alternative to more elaborate breath analysis techniques. PMID:22790702

Real-time monitoring of process parameters in rice wine fermentation by a portable spectral analytical system combined with multivariate analysis.

PubMed

Ouyang, Qin; Zhao, Jiewen; Pan, Wenxiu; Chen, Quansheng

2016-01-01

A portable and low-cost spectral analytical system was developed and used to monitor real-time process parameters, i.e. total sugar content (TSC), alcohol content (AC) and pH during rice wine fermentation. Various partial least square (PLS) algorithms were implemented to construct models. The performance of a model was evaluated by the correlation coefficient (Rp) and the root mean square error (RMSEP) in the prediction set. Among the models used, the synergy interval PLS (Si-PLS) was found to be superior. The optimal performance by the Si-PLS model for the TSC was Rp = 0.8694, RMSEP = 0.438; the AC was Rp = 0.8097, RMSEP = 0.617; and the pH was Rp = 0.9039, RMSEP = 0.0805. The stability and reliability of the system, as well as the optimal models, were verified using coefficients of variation, most of which were found to be less than 5%. The results suggest this portable system is a promising tool that could be used as an alternative method for rapid monitoring of process parameters during rice wine fermentation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Smartphone Brain Scanner: A Portable Real-Time Neuroimaging System

PubMed Central

Stopczynski, Arkadiusz; Stahlhut, Carsten; Larsen, Jakob Eg; Petersen, Michael Kai; Hansen, Lars Kai

2014-01-01

Combining low-cost wireless EEG sensors with smartphones offers novel opportunities for mobile brain imaging in an everyday context. Here we present the technical details and validation of a framework for building multi-platform, portable EEG applications with real-time 3D source reconstruction. The system – Smartphone Brain Scanner – combines an off-the-shelf neuroheadset or EEG cap with a smartphone or tablet, and as such represents the first fully portable system for real-time 3D EEG imaging. We discuss the benefits and challenges, including technical limitations as well as details of real-time reconstruction of 3D images of brain activity. We present examples of brain activity captured in a simple experiment involving imagined finger tapping, which shows that the acquired signal in a relevant brain region is similar to that obtained with standard EEG lab equipment. Although the quality of the signal in a mobile solution using an off-the-shelf consumer neuroheadset is lower than the signal obtained using high-density standard EEG equipment, we propose mobile application development may offset the disadvantages and provide completely new opportunities for neuroimaging in natural settings. PMID:24505263

Portable ultrasonography in mass casualty incidents: The CAVEAT examination.

PubMed

Stawicki, Stanislaw Peter; Howard, James M; Pryor, John P; Bahner, David P; Whitmill, Melissa L; Dean, Anthony J

2010-11-18

Ultrasonography used by practicing clinicians has been shown to be of utility in the evaluation of time-sensitive and critical illnesses in a range of environments, including pre-hospital triage, emergency department, and critical care settings. The increasing availability of light-weight, robust, user-friendly, and low-cost portable ultrasound equipment is particularly suited for use in the physically and temporally challenging environment of a multiple casualty incident (MCI). Currently established ultrasound applications used to identify potentially lethal thoracic or abdominal conditions offer a base upon which rapid, focused protocols using hand-carried emergency ultrasonography could be developed. Following a detailed review of the current use of portable ultrasonography in military and civilian MCI settings, we propose a protocol for sonographic evaluation of the chest, abdomen, vena cava, and extremities for acute triage. The protocol is two-tiered, based on the urgency and technical difficulty of the sonographic examination. In addition to utilization of well-established bedside abdominal and thoracic sonography applications, this protocol incorporates extremity assessment for long-bone fractures. Studies of the proposed protocol will need to be conducted to determine its utility in simulated and actual MCI settings.

Noise Source Visualization Using a Digital Voice Recorder and Low-Cost Sensors

PubMed Central

Cho, Yong Thung

2018-01-01

Accurate sound visualization of noise sources is required for optimal noise control. Typically, noise measurement systems require microphones, an analog-digital converter, cables, a data acquisition system, etc., which may not be affordable for potential users. Also, many such systems are not highly portable and may not be convenient for travel. Handheld personal electronic devices such as smartphones and digital voice recorders with relatively lower costs and higher performance have become widely available recently. Even though such devices are highly portable, directly implementing them for noise measurement may lead to erroneous results since such equipment was originally designed for voice recording. In this study, external microphones were connected to a digital voice recorder to conduct measurements and the input received was processed for noise visualization. In this way, a low cost, compact sound visualization system was designed and introduced to visualize two actual noise sources for verification with different characteristics: an enclosed loud speaker and a small air compressor. Reasonable accuracy of noise visualization for these two sources was shown over a relatively wide frequency range. This very affordable and compact sound visualization system can be used for many actual noise visualization applications in addition to educational purposes. PMID:29614038

Recent Advances in Fluorescence Lifetime Analytical Microsystems: Contact Optics and CMOS Time-Resolved Electronics.

PubMed

Wei, Liping; Yan, Wenrong; Ho, Derek

2017-12-04

Fluorescence spectroscopy has become a prominent research tool with wide applications in medical diagnostics and bio-imaging. However, the realization of combined high-performance, portable, and low-cost spectroscopic sensors still remains a challenge, which has limited the technique to the laboratories. A fluorescence lifetime measurement seeks to obtain the characteristic lifetime from the fluorescence decay profile. Time-correlated single photon counting (TCSPC) and time-gated techniques are two key variations of time-resolved measurements. However, commercial time-resolved analysis systems typically contain complex optics and discrete electronic components, which lead to bulkiness and a high cost. These two limitations can be significantly mitigated using contact sensing and complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) implementation. Contact sensing simplifies the optics, whereas CMOS technology enables on-chip, arrayed detection and signal processing, significantly reducing size and power consumption. This paper examines recent advances in contact sensing and CMOS time-resolved circuits for the realization of fully integrated fluorescence lifetime measurement microsystems. The high level of performance from recently reported prototypes suggests that the CMOS-based contact sensing microsystems are emerging as sound technologies for application-specific, low-cost, and portable time-resolved diagnostic devices.

Recent Advances in Fluorescence Lifetime Analytical Microsystems: Contact Optics and CMOS Time-Resolved Electronics

PubMed Central

Yan, Wenrong; Ho, Derek

2017-01-01

Fluorescence spectroscopy has become a prominent research tool with wide applications in medical diagnostics and bio-imaging. However, the realization of combined high-performance, portable, and low-cost spectroscopic sensors still remains a challenge, which has limited the technique to the laboratories. A fluorescence lifetime measurement seeks to obtain the characteristic lifetime from the fluorescence decay profile. Time-correlated single photon counting (TCSPC) and time-gated techniques are two key variations of time-resolved measurements. However, commercial time-resolved analysis systems typically contain complex optics and discrete electronic components, which lead to bulkiness and a high cost. These two limitations can be significantly mitigated using contact sensing and complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) implementation. Contact sensing simplifies the optics, whereas CMOS technology enables on-chip, arrayed detection and signal processing, significantly reducing size and power consumption. This paper examines recent advances in contact sensing and CMOS time-resolved circuits for the realization of fully integrated fluorescence lifetime measurement microsystems. The high level of performance from recently reported prototypes suggests that the CMOS-based contact sensing microsystems are emerging as sound technologies for application-specific, low-cost, and portable time-resolved diagnostic devices. PMID:29207568

A Portable Impedance Immunosensing System for Rapid Detection of Salmonella Typhimurium

PubMed Central

Wen, Tao; Wang, Ronghui; Sotero, America; Li, Yanbin

2017-01-01

Salmonella Typhimurium is one of the most dangerous foodborne pathogens and poses a significant threat to human health. The objective of this study was to develop a portable impedance immunosensing system for rapid and sensitive detection of S. Typhimurium in poultry. The developed portable impedance immunosensing system consisted of a gold interdigitated array microelectrode (IDAM), a signal acquisitive interface and a laptop computer with LabVIEW software. The IDAM was first functionalized with 16-Mercaptohexadecanoic acid, and streptavidin was immobilized onto the electrode surface through covalent bonding. Then, biotin-labelled S. Typhimurium-antibody was immobilized onto the IDAM surface. Samples were dropped on the surface of the IDAM and the S. Typhimurium cells in the samples were captured by the antibody on the IDAM. This resulted in impedance changes that were measured and displayed with the LabVIEW software. An equivalent circuit of the immunosensor demonstrated that the largest change in impedance was due to the electron-transfer resistance. The equivalent circuit showed an increase of 35% for the electron-transfer resistance value compared to the negative control. The calibration result indicated that the portable impedance immunosensing system could be used to measure the standard impedance elements, and it had a maximum error of measurement of approximately 13%. For pure culture detection, the system had a linear relationship between the impedance change and the logarithmic value of S. Typhimurium cells ranging from 76 to 7.6 × 106 CFU (colony-forming unit) (50 μL)−1. The immunosensor also had a correlation coefficient of 0.98, and a high specificity for detection of S. Typhimurium cells with a limit of detection (LOD) of 102 CFU (50 μL)−1. The detection time from the moment a sample was introduced to the display of the results was 1 h. To conclude, the portable impedance immunosensing system for detection of S. Typhimurium achieved an LOD that is comparable with commercial electrochemical impedance instruments. The developed impedance immunosensor has advantages in portability, low cost, rapid detection and label-free features showing a great potential for in-field detection of foodborne pathogens. PMID:28846643

A Portable Impedance Immunosensing System for Rapid Detection of Salmonella Typhimurium.

PubMed

Wen, Tao; Wang, Ronghui; Sotero, America; Li, Yanbin

2017-08-28

Salmonella Typhimurium is one of the most dangerous foodborne pathogens and poses a significant threat to human health. The objective of this study was to develop a portable impedance immunosensing system for rapid and sensitive detection of S . Typhimurium in poultry. The developed portable impedance immunosensing system consisted of a gold interdigitated array microelectrode (IDAM), a signal acquisitive interface and a laptop computer with LabVIEW software. The IDAM was first functionalized with 16-Mercaptohexadecanoic acid, and streptavidin was immobilized onto the electrode surface through covalent bonding. Then, biotin-labelled S . Typhimurium -antibody was immobilized onto the IDAM surface. Samples were dropped on the surface of the IDAM and the S . Typhimurium cells in the samples were captured by the antibody on the IDAM. This resulted in impedance changes that were measured and displayed with the LabVIEW software. An equivalent circuit of the immunosensor demonstrated that the largest change in impedance was due to the electron-transfer resistance. The equivalent circuit showed an increase of 35% for the electron-transfer resistance value compared to the negative control. The calibration result indicated that the portable impedance immunosensing system could be used to measure the standard impedance elements, and it had a maximum error of measurement of approximately 13%. For pure culture detection, the system had a linear relationship between the impedance change and the logarithmic value of S . Typhimurium cells ranging from 76 to 7.6 × 10⁶ CFU (colony-forming unit) (50 μL) -1 . The immunosensor also had a correlation coefficient of 0.98, and a high specificity for detection of S . Typhimurium cells with a limit of detection (LOD) of 10² CFU (50 μL) -1 . The detection time from the moment a sample was introduced to the display of the results was 1 h. To conclude, the portable impedance immunosensing system for detection of S . Typhimurium achieved an LOD that is comparable with commercial electrochemical impedance instruments. The developed impedance immunosensor has advantages in portability, low cost, rapid detection and label-free features showing a great potential for in-field detection of foodborne pathogens.

A single FPGA-based portable ultrasound imaging system for point-of-care applications.

PubMed

Kim, Gi-Duck; Yoon, Changhan; Kye, Sang-Bum; Lee, Youngbae; Kang, Jeeun; Yoo, Yangmo; Song, Tai-kyong

2012-07-01

We present a cost-effective portable ultrasound system based on a single field-programmable gate array (FPGA) for point-of-care applications. In the portable ultrasound system developed, all the ultrasound signal and image processing modules, including an effective 32-channel receive beamformer with pseudo-dynamic focusing, are embedded in an FPGA chip. For overall system control, a mobile processor running Linux at 667 MHz is used. The scan-converted ultrasound image data from the FPGA are directly transferred to the system controller via external direct memory access without a video processing unit. The potable ultrasound system developed can provide real-time B-mode imaging with a maximum frame rate of 30, and it has a battery life of approximately 1.5 h. These results indicate that the single FPGA-based portable ultrasound system developed is able to meet the processing requirements in medical ultrasound imaging while providing improved flexibility for adapting to emerging POC applications.

The low cost Proton Precession Magnetometer developed at the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahavarkar, P.; Singh, S.; Labde, S.; Dongre, V.; Patil, A.

2017-05-01

Proton magnetometers are the oldest scalar magnetometers. The first commercial units were produced in early 1960s as portable instruments. In continuation airborne instruments appeared with optimized speed of readings and sensitivity, large sensors etc. Later development of Overhauser and optically pumped magnetometers has eliminated Proton magnetometers from airborne surveys. However they remain very popular in various ground surveys and observatories. With this primary purpose of generating the ground based magnetic data, the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG) for the last 3 decades have been developing low cost Proton Precession Magnetometers (PPM). Beginning with the 1 nT PPM which has undergone several changes in design, the successor PM7 the advanced version has been successfully developed by the institute and is installed at various observatories of the institute. PM7 records the total field `F' with accuracy of 0.1 nT and a sampling rate of 10 seconds/sample. This article briefly discusses the design and development of this IIG make PM7 and compares the data recorded by this instrument with one of the commercially available Overhauser magnetometer in the world market. The quality of data recorded by PM7 is in excellent agreement with the Overhauser. With the available quality of data generated by this instrument, PM7 is an affordable PPM for scientific institutions, schools and colleges intending to carry out geomagnetic studies. The commercial cost of PM7 is ≈ 20% of the cost of Overhauser available in market.

Portable tongue-supported human computer interaction system design and implementation.

PubMed

Quain, Rohan; Khan, Masood Mehmood

2014-01-01

Tongue supported human-computer interaction (TSHCI) systems can help critically ill patients interact with both computers and people. These systems can be particularly useful for patients suffering injuries above C7 on their spinal vertebrae. Despite recent successes in their application, several limitations restrict performance of existing TSHCI systems and discourage their use in real life situations. This paper proposes a low-cost, less-intrusive, portable and easy to use design for implementing a TSHCI system. Two applications of the proposed system are reported. Design considerations and performance of the proposed system are also presented.

A Rapid and Low-Cost PCR Thermal Cycler for Infectious Disease Diagnostics

PubMed Central

Chan, Kamfai; Wong, Pui-Yan; Yu, Peter; Hardick, Justin; Wong, Kah-Yat; Wilson, Scott A.; Wu, Tiffany; Hui, Zoe; Gaydos, Charlotte; Wong, Season S.

2016-01-01

The ability to make rapid diagnosis of infectious diseases broadly available in a portable, low-cost format would mark a great step forward in global health. Many molecular diagnostic assays are developed based on using thermal cyclers to carry out polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reverse-transcription PCR for DNA and RNA amplification and detection, respectively. Unfortunately, most commercial thermal cyclers are expensive and need continuous electrical power supply, so they are not suitable for uses in low-resource settings. We have previously reported a low-cost and simple approach to amplify DNA using vacuum insulated stainless steel thermoses food cans, which we have named it thermos thermal cycler or TTC. Here, we describe the use of an improved set up to enable the detection of viral RNA targets by reverse-transcription PCR (RT-PCR), thus expanding the TTC’s ability to identify highly infectious, RNA virus-based diseases in low resource settings. The TTC was successful in demonstrating high-speed and sensitive detection of DNA or RNA targets of sexually transmitted diseases, HIV/AIDS, Ebola hemorrhagic fever, and dengue fever. Our innovative TTC costs less than $200 to build and has a capacity of at least eight tubes. In terms of speed, the TTC’s performance exceeded that of commercial thermal cyclers tested. When coupled with low-cost endpoint detection technologies such as nucleic acid lateral-flow assay or a cell-phone-based fluorescence detector, the TTC will increase the availability of on-site molecular diagnostics in low-resource settings. PMID:26872358

Portable electronic vision enhancement systems in comparison with optical magnifiers for near vision activities: an economic evaluation alongside a randomized crossover trial.

PubMed

Bray, Nathan; Brand, Andrew; Taylor, John; Hoare, Zoe; Dickinson, Christine; Edwards, Rhiannon T

2017-08-01

To determine the incremental cost-effectiveness of portable electronic vision enhancement system (p-EVES) devices compared with optical low vision aids (LVAs), for improving near vision visual function, quality of life and well-being of people with a visual impairment. An AB/BA randomized crossover trial design was used. Eighty-two participants completed the study. Participants were current users of optical LVAs who had not tried a p-EVES device before and had a stable visual impairment. The trial intervention was the addition of a p-EVES device to the participant's existing optical LVA(s) for 2 months, and the control intervention was optical LVA use only, for 2 months. Cost-effectiveness and cost-utility analyses were conducted from a societal perspective. The mean cost of the p-EVES intervention was £448. Carer costs were £30 (4.46 hr) less for the p-EVES intervention compared with the LVA only control. The mean difference in total costs was £417. Bootstrapping gave an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of £736 (95% CI £481 to £1525) for a 7% improvement in near vision visual function. Cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) ranged from £56 991 (lower 95% CI = £19 801) to £66 490 (lower 95% CI = £23 055). Sensitivity analysis varying the commercial price of the p-EVES device reduced ICERs by up to 75%, with cost per QALYs falling below £30 000. Portable electronic vision enhancement system (p-EVES) devices are likely to be a cost-effective use of healthcare resources for improving near vision visual function, but this does not translate into cost-effective improvements in quality of life, capability or well-being. © 2016 The Authors. Acta Ophthalmologica published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation and European Association for Vision & Eye Research.

Educational Television. Special VTR Issue.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Educational Television, 1969

1969-01-01

Four articles focusing on various aspects of videotape recorders form the main body of this journal. The first article discusses the variety of portable models available, presenting a limited amount of data on the recorders favored by educational institutions. The second article compares the low cost, helical-scan recorders to quadruplex machines,…

Low-cost boring mill

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hibdon, R. A.

1979-01-01

Portable unit and special fixture serve as boring mill. Machine, fabricated primarily from scrap metal, was designed and set up in about 12 working days. It has reduced setup and boring time by 66 percent as compared with existing boring miles, thereby making latter available for other jobs. Unit can be operated by one man.

Low-cost and highly efficient DNA biosensor for heavy metal ion using specific DNAzyme-modified microplate and portable glucometer-based detection mode.

PubMed

Zhang, Jin; Tang, Ying; Teng, Liumei; Lu, Minghua; Tang, Dianping

2015-06-15

A simple and low-cost DNA sensing platform based on Pb(2+)-specific DNAzyme-modified microplate was successfully developed for highly sensitive monitoring of lead ion (Pb(2+), one kind of toxic heavy metal ion) in the environmental samples coupling with a portable personal glucometer (PGM)-based detection mode. The detection cell was first prepared simply by means of immobilizing the DNAzyme on the streptavidin-modified microplate. Gold nanoparticle labeled with single-stranded DNA and invertase (Enz-AuNP-DNA) was utilized as the signal-transduction tag to produce PGM substrate (glucose). Upon addition of lead ion into the microplate, the substrate strand of the immobilized DNAzyme was catalytically cleaved by target Pb(2+), and the newly generated single-strand DNA in the microplate could hybridize again with the single-stranded DNA on the Enz-AuNP-DNA. Accompanying with the Enz-AuNP-DNA, the carried invertase could convert sucrose into glucose. The as-produced glucose could be monitored by using a widely accessible PGM for in situ amplified digital readout. Based on Enz-AuNP-DNA amplification strategy, as low as 1.0 pM Pb(2+) could be detected under the optimal conditions. Moreover, the methodology also showed good reproducibility and high selectivity toward target Pb(2+) against other metal ions because of highly specific Pb(2+)-dependent DNAzyme, and was applicable for monitoring Pb(2+) in the naturally contaminated sewage and spiked drinking water samples. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A Portable Computer System for Auditing Quality of Ambulatory Care

PubMed Central

McCoy, J. Michael; Dunn, Earl V.; Borgiel, Alexander E.

1987-01-01

Prior efforts to effectively and efficiently audit quality of ambulatory care based on comprehensive process criteria have been limited largely by the complexity and cost of data abstraction and management. Over the years, several demonstration projects have generated large sets of process criteria and mapping systems for evaluating quality of care, but these paper-based approaches have been impractical to implement on a routine basis. Recognizing that portable microcomputers could solve many of the technical problems in abstracting data from medical records, we built upon previously described criteria and developed a microcomputer-based abstracting system that facilitates reliable and cost-effective data abstraction.

A passive cold storage device economic model to evaluate selected immunization location scenarios.

PubMed

Norman, Bryan A; Nourollahi, Sevnaz; Chen, Sheng-I; Brown, Shawn T; Claypool, Erin G; Connor, Diana L; Schmitz, Michelle M; Rajgopal, Jayant; Wateska, Angela R; Lee, Bruce Y

2013-10-25

The challenge of keeping vaccines cold at health posts given the unreliability of power sources in many low- and middle-income countries and the expense and maintenance requirements of solar refrigerators has motivated the development of passive cold storage devices (PCDs), containers that keep vaccines cold without using an active energy source. With different PCDs under development, manufacturers, policymakers and funders need guidance on how varying different PCD characteristics may affect the devices' cost and utility. We developed an economic spreadsheet model representing the lowest two levels of a typical Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) vaccine supply chain: a district store, the immunization locations that the district store serves, and the transport vehicles that operate between the district store and the immunization locations. The model compares the use of three vaccine storage device options [(1) portable PCDs, (2) stationary PCDs, or (3) solar refrigerators] and allows the user to vary different device (e.g., size and cost) and scenario characteristics (e.g., catchment area population size and vaccine schedule). For a sample set of select scenarios and equipment specification, we found the portable PCD to generally be better suited to populations of 5,000 or less. The stationary PCD replenished once per month can be a robust design especially with a 35L capacity and a cost of $2,500 or less. The solar device was generally a reasonable alternative for most of the scenarios explored if the cost was $2,100 or less (including installation). No one device type dominated over all explored circumstances. Therefore, the best device may vary from country-to-country and location-to-location within a country. This study introduces a quantitative model to help guide PCD development. Although our selected set of explored scenarios and device designs was not exhaustive, future explorations can further alter model input values to represent additional scenarios and device designs. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Direct broadcast satellite-radio, receiver development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vaisnys, A.; Bell, D.; Gevargiz, J.; Golshan, Nasser

1993-01-01

The status of the ongoing Direct Broadcast Satellite-Radio (DBS-R) Receiver Development Task being performed at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology (JPL) is reported. This work is sponsored by the Voice of America/U.S. Information Agency through an agreement with NASA. The objective of this task is to develop, build, test, and demonstrate a prototype receiver that is compatible with reception of digital audio programs broadcast via satellites. The receiver is being designed to operate under a range of reception conditions, including fixed, portable, and mobile, as well as over a sufficiently wide range of bit rates to accommodate broadcasting systems with different cost/audio quality objectives. While the requirements on the receiver are complex, the eventual goal of the design effort is to make the design compatible with low cost production as a consumer product. One solution may be a basic low cost core design suitable for a majority of reception conditions, with optional enhancements for reception in especially difficult environments. Some of the receiver design parameters were established through analysis, laboratory tests, and a prototype satellite experiment accomplished in late 1991. Many of the necessary design trades will be made during the current simulation effort, while a few of the key design options will be incorporated into the prototype for evaluation during the planned satellite field trials.

Single-wavelength functional photoacoustic microscopy in biological tissue.

PubMed

Danielli, Amos; Favazza, Christopher P; Maslov, Konstantin; Wang, Lihong V

2011-03-01

Recently, we developed a reflection-mode relaxation photoacoustic microscope, based on saturation intensity, to measure picosecond relaxation times using a nanosecond laser. Here, using the different relaxation times of oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin molecules, both possessing extremely low fluorescence quantum yields, the oxygen saturation was quantified in vivo with single-wavelength photoacoustic microscopy. All previous functional photoacoustic microscopy measurements required imaging with multiple-laser-wavelength measurements to quantify oxygen saturation. Eliminating the need for multiwavelength measurements removes the influence of spectral properties on oxygenation calculations and improves the portability and cost-effectiveness of functional or molecular photoacoustic microscopy.

Single-wavelength functional photoacoustic microscopy in biological tissue

PubMed Central

Danielli, Amos; Favazza, Christopher P.; Maslov, Konstantin; Wang, Lihong V.

2011-01-01

Recently, we developed a reflection-mode relaxation photoacoustic microscope, based on saturation intensity, to measure picosecond relaxation times using a nanosecond laser. Here, using the different relaxation times of oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin molecules, both possessing extremely low fluorescence quantum yields, the oxygen saturation was quantified in vivo with single-wavelength photoacoustic microscopy. All previous functional photoacoustic microscopy measurements required imaging with multiple laser-wavelength measurements to quantify oxygen saturation. Eliminating the need for multi-wavelength measurements removes the influence of spectral properties on oxygenation calculations and improves the portability and cost-effectiveness of functional or molecular photoacoustic microscopy. PMID:21368977

Lignin Based Carbon Materials for Energy Storage Applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chatterjee, Sabornie; Saito, Tomonori; Rios, Orlando

The implementation of Li-ion battery technology into electric and hybrid electric vehicles and portable electronic devices such as smart phones, laptops and tablets, creates a demand for efficient, economic and sustainable materials for energy storage. However, the high cost and long processing time associated with manufacturing battery-grade anode and cathode materials are two big constraints for lowering the total cost of batteries and environmentally friendly electric vehicles. Lignin, a byproduct of the pulp and paper industry and biorefinery, is one of the most abundant and inexpensive natural biopolymers. It can be efficiently converted to low cost carbon fibers with optimalmore » properties for use as anode materials. Recent developments in the preparation of lignin precursors and conversion to carbon fiber-based anode materials have created a new class of anode materials with excellent electrochemical characteristics suitable for immediate use in existing Li- or Na-ion battery technologies.« less

A Review on Microfluidic Paper-Based Analytical Devices for Glucose Detection

PubMed Central

Liu, Shuopeng; Su, Wenqiong; Ding, Xianting

2016-01-01

Glucose, as an essential substance directly involved in metabolic processes, is closely related to the occurrence of various diseases such as glucose metabolism disorders and islet cell carcinoma. Therefore, it is crucial to develop sensitive, accurate, rapid, and cost effective methods for frequent and convenient detections of glucose. Microfluidic Paper-based Analytical Devices (μPADs) not only satisfying the above requirements but also occupying the advantages of portability and minimal sample consumption, have exhibited great potential in the field of glucose detection. This article reviews and summarizes the most recent improvements in glucose detection in two aspects of colorimetric and electrochemical μPADs. The progressive techniques for fabricating channels on μPADs are also emphasized in this article. With the growth of diabetes and other glucose indication diseases in the underdeveloped and developing countries, low-cost and reliably commercial μPADs for glucose detection will be in unprecedentedly demand. PMID:27941634

A Rapid and Low-Cost PCR Thermal Cycler for Low Resource Settings.

PubMed

Wong, Grace; Wong, Isaac; Chan, Kamfai; Hsieh, Yicheng; Wong, Season

2015-01-01

Many modern molecular diagnostic assays targeting nucleic acids are typically confined to developed countries or to the national reference laboratories of developing-world countries. The ability to make technologies for the rapid diagnosis of infectious diseases broadly available in a portable, low-cost format would mark a revolutionary step forward in global health. Many molecular assays are also developed based on polymerase chain reactions (PCR), which require thermal cyclers that are relatively heavy (>20 pounds) and need continuous electrical power. The temperature ramping speed of most economical thermal cyclers are relatively slow (2 to 3 °C/s) so a polymerase chain reaction can take 1 to 2 hours. Most of all, these thermal cyclers are still too expensive ($2k to $4k) for low-resource setting uses. In this article, we demonstrate the development of a low-cost and rapid water bath based thermal cycler that does not require active temperature control or continuous power supply during PCR. This unit costs $130 to build using commercial off-the-shelf items. The use of two or three vacuum-insulated stainless-steel Thermos food jars containing heated water (for denaturation and annealing/extension steps) and a layer of oil on top of the water allow for significantly stabilized temperatures for PCR to take place. Using an Arduino-based microcontroller, we automate the "archaic" method of hand-transferring PCR tubes between water baths. We demonstrate that this innovative unit can deliver high speed PCR (17 s per PCR cycle) with the potential to go beyond the 1,522 bp long amplicons tested in this study and can amplify from templates down to at least 20 copies per reaction. The unit also accepts regular PCR tubes and glass capillary tubes. The PCR efficiency of our thermal cycler is not different from other commercial thermal cyclers. When combined with a rapid nucleic acid detection approach, the thermos thermal cycler (TTC) can enable on-site molecular diagnostics in low-resource settings.

Ear biometrics for patient identification in global health: a cross-sectional study to test the feasibility of a simplified algorithm.

PubMed

Ragan, Elizabeth J; Johnson, Courtney; Milton, Jacqueline N; Gill, Christopher J

2016-11-02

One of the greatest public health challenges in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is identifying people over time and space. Recent years have seen an explosion of interest in developing electronic approaches to addressing this problem, with mobile technology at the forefront of these efforts. We investigate the possibility of biometrics as a simple, cost-efficient, and portable solution. Common biometrics approaches include fingerprinting, iris scanning and facial recognition, but all are less than ideal due to complexity, infringement on privacy, cost, or portability. Ear biometrics, however, proved to be a unique and viable solution. We developed an identification algorithm then conducted a cross sectional study in which we photographed left and right ears from 25 consenting adults. We then conducted re-identification and statistical analyses to identify the accuracy and replicability of our approach. Through principal component analysis, we found the curve of the ear helix to be the most reliable anatomical structure and the basis for re-identification. Although an individual ear allowed for high re-identification rate (88.3%), when both left and right ears were paired together, our rate of re-identification amidst the pool of potential matches was 100%. The results of this study have implications on future efforts towards building a biometrics solution for patient identification in LMICs. We provide a conceptual platform for further investigation into the development of an ear biometrics identification mobile application.

Integrated Optical Mach-Zehnder Interferometer Based on Organic-Inorganic Hybrids for Photonics-on-a-Chip Biosensing Applications.

PubMed

Bastos, Ana R; Vicente, Carlos M S; Oliveira-Silva, Rui; Silva, Nuno J O; Tacão, Marta; Costa, João P da; Lima, Mário; André, Paulo S; Ferreira, Rute A S

2018-03-12

The development of portable low-cost integrated optics-based biosensors for photonics-on-a-chip devices for real-time diagnosis are of great interest, offering significant advantages over current analytical methods. We report the fabrication and characterization of an optical sensor based on a Mach-Zehnder interferometer to monitor the growing concentration of bacteria in a liquid medium. The device pattern was imprinted on transparent self-patternable organic-inorganic di-ureasil hybrid films by direct UV-laser, reducing the complexity and cost production compared with lithographic techniques or three-dimensional (3D) patterning using femtosecond lasers. The sensor performance was evaluated using, as an illustrative example, E. coli cell growth in an aqueous medium. The measured sensitivity (2 × 10 -4 RIU) and limit of detection (LOD = 2 × 10 -4 ) are among the best values known for low-refractive index contrast sensors. Furthermore, the di-ureasil hybrid used to produce this biosensor has additional advantages, such as mechanical flexibility, thermal stability, and low insertion losses due to fiber-device refractive index mismatch (~1.49). Therefore, the proposed sensor constitutes a direct, compact, fast, and cost-effective solution for monitoring the concentration of lived-cells.

Webcam camera as a detector for a simple lab-on-chip time based approach.

PubMed

Wongwilai, Wasin; Lapanantnoppakhun, Somchai; Grudpan, Supara; Grudpan, Kate

2010-05-15

A modification of a webcam camera for use as a small and low cost detector was demonstrated with a simple lab-on-chip reactor. Real time continuous monitoring of the reaction zone could be done. Acid-base neutralization with phenolphthalein indicator was used as a model reaction. The fading of pink color of the indicator when the acidic solution diffused into the basic solution zone was recorded as the change of red, blue and green colors (%RBG.) The change was related to acid concentration. A low cost portable semi-automation analysis system was achieved.

Broadcast satellite service: The international dimension

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Samara, Noah

1991-01-01

The dawn of the 1990's has witnessed the birth of a new satellite service - satellite sound broadcasting. This new service is characterized by digital transmission at data rates up to 256 kb/s from satellites in geostationary orbit to small, low-cost, mobile and portable receivers. The satellite sound broadcasting service is a logical step beyond navigation satellite service, such as that provided by the GPS Navstar system. The mass market appeal of satellite sound broadcasting in the area of lightsat technology and low-cost digital radios has greatly facilitated the financing of this type of space service.

Broadcast satellite service: The international dimension

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samara, Noah

1991-09-01

The dawn of the 1990's has witnessed the birth of a new satellite service - satellite sound broadcasting. This new service is characterized by digital transmission at data rates up to 256 kb/s from satellites in geostationary orbit to small, low-cost, mobile and portable receivers. The satellite sound broadcasting service is a logical step beyond navigation satellite service, such as that provided by the GPS Navstar system. The mass market appeal of satellite sound broadcasting in the area of lightsat technology and low-cost digital radios has greatly facilitated the financing of this type of space service.

Validation of a low-cost EEG device for mood induction studies.

PubMed

Rodríguez, Alejandro; Rey, Beatriz; Alcañiz, Mariano

2013-01-01

New electroencephalography (EEG) devices, more portable and cheaper, are appearing on the market. Studying the reliability of these EEG devices for emotional studies would be interesting, as these devices could be more economical and compatible with Virtual Reality (VR) settings. Therefore, the aim in this work was to validate a low-cost EEG device (Emotiv Epoc) to monitor brain activity during a positive emotional induction procedure. Emotional pictures (IAPS) were used to induce a positive mood in sixteen participants. Changes in the brain activity of subjects were compared between positive induction and neutral conditions. Obtained results were in accordance with previous scientific literature regarding frontal EEG asymmetry, which supports the possibility of using this low-cost EEG device in future mood induction studies combined with VR.

Design criteria for portable timber bridge systems : static versus dynamic loads

Treesearch

John M. Franklin; S. E. Taylor; Paul A. Morgan; M. A. Ritter

1999-01-01

Design criteria are needed specifically for portable bridges to insure that they are safe and cost effective. This paper discusses different portable bridge categories and their general design criteria. Specific emphasis is given to quantifying the effects of dynamic live loads on portable bridge design. Results from static and dynamic load tests of two portable timber...

Development of small and inexpensive digital data acquisition systems using a microcontroller-based approach†

PubMed Central

Naivar, Mark A.; Wilder, Mark E.; Habbersett, Robert C.; Woods, Travis A.; Sebba, David S.; Nolan, John P.; Graves, Steven W.

2014-01-01

Fully digital data acquisition systems for use in flow cytometry provide excellent flexibility and precision. Here, we demonstrate the development of a low cost, small, and low power digital flow cytometry data acquisition system using a single microcontroller chip with an integrated analog to digital converter (ADC). Our demonstration system uses a commercially available evaluation board making the system simple to integrate into a flow cytometer. We have evaluated this system using calibration microspheres analyzed on commercial, slow-flow, and CCD based flow cytometers. In our evaluations, our demonstration data system clearly resolves all eight peaks of a Rainbow microsphere set on both a slow-flow flow cytometer and a retrofitted BD FACScalibur, which indicates it has the sensitivity and resolution required for most flow cytometry applications. It is also capable of millisecond time resolution, full waveform collection, and selective triggering of data collection from a CCD camera. The capability of our demonstration system suggests that the use of microcontrollers for flow cytometry digital data-acquisition will be increasingly valuable for extending the life of older cytometers and provides a compelling data-system design approach for low-cost, portable flow cytometers. PMID:19852060

Development of small and inexpensive digital data acquisition systems using a microcontroller-based approach.

PubMed

Naivar, Mark A; Wilder, Mark E; Habbersett, Robert C; Woods, Travis A; Sebba, David S; Nolan, John P; Graves, Steven W

2009-12-01

Fully digital data acquisition systems for use in flow cytometry provide excellent flexibility and precision. Here, we demonstrate the development of a low cost, small, and low power digital flow cytometry data acquisition system using a single microcontroller chip with an integrated analog to digital converter (ADC). Our demonstration system uses a commercially available evaluation board making the system simple to integrate into a flow cytometer. We have evaluated this system using calibration microspheres analyzed on commercial, slow-flow, and CCD-based flow cytometers. In our evaluations, our demonstration data system clearly resolves all eight peaks of a Rainbow microsphere set on both a slow-flow flow cytometer and a retrofitted BD FACScalibur, which indicates it has the sensitivity and resolution required for most flow cytometry applications. It is also capable of millisecond time resolution, full waveform collection, and selective triggering of data collection from a CCD camera. The capability of our demonstration system suggests that the use of microcontrollers for flow cytometry digital data-acquisition will be increasingly valuable for extending the life of older cytometers and provides a compelling data-system design approach for low-cost, portable flow cytometers.

A novel all-fiber optic flow cytometer technology for Point-of Care and Remote Environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mermut, Ozzy

Traditional flow cytometry designs tend to be bulky systems with a complex optical-fluidic sub-system and often require trained personnel for operation. This makes them difficult to readily translate to remote site testing applications. A new compact and portable fiber-optic flow cell (FOFC) technology has been developed at INO. We designed and engineered a specialty optical fiber through which a square hole is transversally bored by laser micromachining. A capillary is fitted into that hole to flow analyte within the fiber square cross-section for detection and counting. With demonstrated performance benchmarks potentially comparable to commercial flow cytometers, our FOFC provides several advantages compared to classic free-space con-figurations, e.g., sheathless flow, low cost, reduced number of optical components, no need for alignment (occurring in the fabrication process only), ease-of-use, miniaturization, portability, and robustness. This sheathless configuration, based on a fiber optic flow module, renders this cytometer amenable to space-grade microgravity environments. We present our recent results for an all-fiber approach to achieve a miniature FOFC to translate flow cytometry from bench to a portable, point-of-care device for deployment in remote settings. Our unique fiber approach provides the capability to illuminate a large surface with a uniform intensity distri-bution, independently of the initial shape originating from the light source, and without loss of optical power. The CVs and sensitivities are measured and compared to industry benchmarks. Finally, integration of LEDs enable several advantages in cost, compactness, and wavelength availability.

Utilization of Open Source Technology to Create Cost-Effective Microscope Camera Systems for Teaching.

PubMed

Konduru, Anil Reddy; Yelikar, Balasaheb R; Sathyashree, K V; Kumar, Ankur

2018-01-01

Open source technologies and mobile innovations have radically changed the way people interact with technology. These innovations and advancements have been used across various disciplines and already have a significant impact. Microscopy, with focus on visually appealing contrasting colors for better appreciation of morphology, forms the core of the disciplines such as Pathology, microbiology, and anatomy. Here, learning happens with the aid of multi-head microscopes and digital camera systems for teaching larger groups and in organizing interactive sessions for students or faculty of other departments. The cost of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) camera systems in bringing this useful technology at all the locations is a limiting factor. To avoid this, we have used the low-cost technologies like Raspberry Pi, Mobile high definition link and 3D printing for adapters to create portable camera systems. Adopting these open source technologies enabled us to convert any binocular or trinocular microscope be connected to a projector or HD television at a fraction of the cost of the OEM camera systems with comparable quality. These systems, in addition to being cost-effective, have also provided the added advantage of portability, thus providing the much-needed flexibility at various teaching locations.

An Affordable and Portable Thermocycler for Real-Time PCR Made of 3D-Printed Parts and Off-the-Shelf Electronics.

PubMed

Mendoza-Gallegos, Roberto A; Rios, Amelia; Garcia-Cordero, Jose L

2018-05-01

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a sought-after nucleic acid amplification technique used in the detection of several diseases. However, one of the main limitations of this and other nucleic acid amplification assays is the complexity, size, maintenance, and cost of their operational instrumentation. This limits the use of PCR applications in settings that cannot afford the instruments but that may have access to basic electrical, electronic, and optical components and the expertise to build them. To provide a more accessible platform, we developed a low-cost, palm-size, and portable instrument to perform real-time PCR (qPCR). The thermocycler leverages a copper-sheathed power resistor and a computer fan, in tandem with basic electronic components controlled from a single-board computer. The instrument incorporates a 3D-printed chassis and a custom-made fluorescence optical setup based on a CMOS camera and a blue LED. Results are displayed in real-time on a tablet. We also fabricated simple acrylic microdevices consisting of four wells (2 μL in volume each) where PCR reactions take place. To test our instrument, we performed qPCR on a series of cDNA dilutions spanning 4 orders of magnitude, achieving similar limits of detection as those achieved by a benchtop thermocycler. We envision our instrument being utilized to enable routine monitoring and diagnosis of certain diseases in low-resource areas.

Thin film transistors on plastic substrates with reflective coatings for radiation protection

DOEpatents

Wolfe, Jesse D.; Theiss, Steven D.; Carey, Paul G.; Smith, Patrick M.; Wickboldt, Paul

2003-11-04

Fabrication of silicon thin film transistors (TFT) on low-temperature plastic substrates using a reflective coating so that inexpensive plastic substrates may be used in place of standard glass, quartz, and silicon wafer-based substrates. The TFT can be used in large area low cost electronics, such as flat panel displays and portable electronics such as video cameras, personal digital assistants, and cell phones.

Thin film transistors on plastic substrates with reflective coatings for radiation protection

DOEpatents

Wolfe, Jesse D [Fairfield, CA; Theiss, Steven D [Woodbury, MN; Carey, Paul G [Mountain View, CA; Smith, Patrick M [San Ramon, CA; Wickbold, Paul [Walnut Creek, CA

2006-09-26

Fabrication of silicon thin film transistors (TFT) on low-temperature plastic substrates using a reflective coating so that inexpensive plastic substrates may be used in place of standard glass, quartz, and silicon wafer-based substrates. The TFT can be used in large area low cost electronics, such as flat panel displays and portable electronics such as video cameras, personal digital assistants, and cell phones.

Recent advances and product enhancements in reflective cholesteric displays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, Asad; Schneider, Tod; Miller, Nick; Marhefka, Duane; Ernst, Todd; Nicholson, Forrest; Doane, Joseph W.

2005-04-01

Bistable reflective cholesteric displays are a liquid crystal display technology developed to fill a market need for very low power displays on a low-cost, high resolution passive matrix. Their unique look, high reflectivity, bistability, and simple structure make them an ideal flat panel display choice for handheld or other portable devices where small lightweight batteries with long lifetimes are important. We discuss recent advances in cholesteric display technology at Kent Displays such as progress towards single layer black and white displays, standard products, lower cost display modules, and various interface options for cholesteric display applications. It will be shown that inclusion of radio frequency (rf) control options and serial peripheral interface (spi) can greatly enhance the cholesteric display module market penetration by enabling quick integration into end devices. Finally, some discussion will be on the progress of the development of flexible reflective cholesteric displays. These flexible displays can dramatically change industrial design methods by enabling curved surfaces with displays integrated in them. Additional discussion in the paper will include applications of various display modes including signs, hand held instrumentation, and the electronic book and reader.

A Non–Gas-Based Cryotherapy System for the Treatment of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia: A Mixed-Methods Approach for Initial Development and Testing

PubMed Central

Cremer, Miriam; Paul, Proma; Bergman, Katie; Haas, Michael; Maza, Mauricio; Zevallos, Albert; Ossandon, Miguel; Garai, Jillian D; Winkler, Jennifer L

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Background: Gas-based cryotherapy is the most widely used treatment strategy for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) in low-resource settings, but reliance on gas presents challenges in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Our team adapted the original CryoPen Cryosurgical System, a cryotherapy device that does not require compressed gas and is powered by electricity, for use in LMICs. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was used involving both qualitative and quantitative methods. First, we used a user-centered design approach to identify priority features of the adapted device. U.S.-based and global potential users of the adapted CryoPen participated in discussion groups and a card sorting activity to rank 7 features of the adapted CryoPen: cost, durability, efficacy and safety, maintenance, no need for electricity, patient throughput, and portability. Mean and median rankings, overall rankings, and summary rankings by discussion group were generated. In addition, results of several quantitative tests were analyzed including bench testing to determine tip temperature and heat extraction capabilities; a pathology review of CIN grade 3 cases (N=107) to determine target depth of necrosis needed to achieve high efficacy; and a pilot study (N=5) investigating depth of necrosis achieved with the adapted device to assess efficacy. Results: Discussion groups revealed 4 priority themes for device development in addition to the need to ensure high efficacy and safety and low cost: improved portability, durability, ease of use, and potential for cure. Adaptions to the original CryoPen system included a single-core, single-tip model; rugged carrying case; custom circuit to allow car battery charging; and sterilization by high-level disinfection. In bench testing, there were no significant differences in tip temperature or heat extraction capability between the adapted CryoPen and the standard cryotherapy device. In 80% of the cases in the pilot study, the adapted CryoPen achieved the target depth of necrosis 3.5 mm established in the pathology review. Conclusion: The LMIC-adapted CryoPen overcomes barriers to standard gas-based cryotherapy by eliminating dependency on gas, increasing portability, and ensuring consistent freeze temperatures. Further testing and evaluation of the adapted CryoPen will be pursued to assess scalability and potential impact of this device in decreasing the cervical cancer burden in LMICs. PMID:28351879

A Non-Gas-Based Cryotherapy System for the Treatment of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia: A Mixed-Methods Approach for Initial Development and Testing.

PubMed

Cremer, Miriam; Paul, Proma; Bergman, Katie; Haas, Michael; Maza, Mauricio; Zevallos, Albert; Ossandon, Miguel; Garai, Jillian D; Winkler, Jennifer L

2017-03-24

Gas-based cryotherapy is the most widely used treatment strategy for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) in low-resource settings, but reliance on gas presents challenges in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Our team adapted the original CryoPen Cryosurgical System, a cryotherapy device that does not require compressed gas and is powered by electricity, for use in LMICs. A mixed-methods approach was used involving both qualitative and quantitative methods. First, we used a user-centered design approach to identify priority features of the adapted device. U.S.-based and global potential users of the adapted CryoPen participated in discussion groups and a card sorting activity to rank 7 features of the adapted CryoPen: cost, durability, efficacy and safety, maintenance, no need for electricity, patient throughput, and portability. Mean and median rankings, overall rankings, and summary rankings by discussion group were generated. In addition, results of several quantitative tests were analyzed including bench testing to determine tip temperature and heat extraction capabilities; a pathology review of CIN grade 3 cases (N=107) to determine target depth of necrosis needed to achieve high efficacy; and a pilot study (N=5) investigating depth of necrosis achieved with the adapted device to assess efficacy. Discussion groups revealed 4 priority themes for device development in addition to the need to ensure high efficacy and safety and low cost: improved portability, durability, ease of use, and potential for cure. Adaptions to the original CryoPen system included a single-core, single-tip model; rugged carrying case; custom circuit to allow car battery charging; and sterilization by high-level disinfection. In bench testing, there were no significant differences in tip temperature or heat extraction capability between the adapted CryoPen and the standard cryotherapy device. In 80% of the cases in the pilot study, the adapted CryoPen achieved the target depth of necrosis 3.5 mm established in the pathology review. The LMIC-adapted CryoPen overcomes barriers to standard gas-based cryotherapy by eliminating dependency on gas, increasing portability, and ensuring consistent freeze temperatures. Further testing and evaluation of the adapted CryoPen will be pursued to assess scalability and potential impact of this device in decreasing the cervical cancer burden in LMICs. © Cremer et al.

The Reusable Handheld Electrolyte and Lab Technology for Humans (rHEALTH) Sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chan, Eugene

2015-01-01

The DNA Medicine Institute has produced a reusable microfluidic device that performs rapid, low-cost cell counts and measurements of electrolytes, proteins, and other biomarkers. The rHEALTH sensor is compact and portable, and it employs cutting-edge fluorescence detection optics, innovative microfluidics, and nanostrip reagents to perform a suite of hematology, chemistry, and biomarker assays from a single drop of blood. A handful of current portable POC devices provide generalized blood analysis, but they perform only a few tests at a time. These devices also rely on disposable components and depend on diverse detection technologies to complete routine tests-all ill-suited for space travelers on extended missions. In contrast, the rHEALTH sensor integrates sample introduction, processing, and detection with a compact, resource-conscious, and efficient design. Developed to monitor astronaut health on the International Space Station and during long-term space flight, this microscale lab analysis tool also has terrestrial applications that include POC diagnostics conducted at a patient's bedside, in a doctor's office, and in a hospital.

Development of a portable photosynthesis rate measurement device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Junsheng; Xing, Da; Xu, Wenhai

2006-09-01

Photosynthesis is a very important chemical reaction in the plant, and its measurement plays critical role in the agriculture production and science research of plant. Delayed fluorescence (DF) in plants is an intrinsic label of efficiency of charge separation at P680 in photosystem II (PS II). In this paper, a portable photosynthesis rate measurement device by means of DF is proposed. It can achieve DF of plant with high sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio basing on ultra-weak luminescence detection technique, and get photosynthesis rate by the corresponding relation between DF and photosynthesis rate. The device has its illumination power and can obtain all-weather measurement with less interference of the environment. Locale live survey can be realized by hermetic darkroom design and battery power supply. The system carries out data acquisition and processing by single-chip microcomputer control. The results show that this instrument has a lot of values such as low cost, high accuracy and good reliability and convenience.

Design and construction of portable survey meter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singseeta, W.; Thong-aram, D.; Pencharee, S.

2017-09-01

This work was aimed to design and construction of portable survey meter for radiation dose measuring. The designed system consists of 4 main parts consisting of low voltage power supply, radiation detection, radiation measurement and data display part on android phone. The test results show that the ripple voltage of low voltage power supply is less than 1%, the maximum integral counts are found to be 104 counts per second and the maximum distance of wireless commination between the server and the client is about 10 meter. It was found that the developed system had small size and light weight for portable instrument.

Hydrogen generation by electrolysis of aqueous organic solutions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jeffries-Nakamura, Barbara (Inventor); Narayanan, Sekharipuram R. (Inventor); Chun, William (Inventor); Valdez, Thomas I. (Inventor)

2006-01-01

A device for electrolysis of an aqueous solution of an organic fuel. The electrolyte is a solid-state polymer membrane with anode and cathode catalysts on both surfaces for electro-oxidization and electro-reduction. A low-cost and portable hydrogen generator can be made based on the device with organic fuels such as methanol.

The Trine Project Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gunderson, Jon R.; And Others

The final report describes the Trine Project which addressed three needs in the education of handicapped children: the need for an alternate writing system, the need for communication, and the need for access to general purpose computers used in the schools. The project had three major objectives: (1) to design a low-cost portable writing and…

64.1: Display Technologies for Therapeutic Applications of Virtual Reality

PubMed Central

Hoffman, Hunter G.; Schowengerdt, Brian T.; Lee, Cameron M.; Magula, Jeff; Seibel, Eric J.

2015-01-01

A paradigm shift in image source technology for VR helmets is needed. Using scanning fiber displays to replace LCD displays creates lightweight, safe, low cost, wide field of view, portable VR goggles ideal for reducing pain during severe burn wound care in hospitals and possibly in austere combat-transport environments. PMID:26146424

Hydrogen generation by electrolysis of aqueous organic solutions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Narayanan, Sekharipuram R. (Inventor); Chun, William (Inventor); Jeffries-Nakamura, Barbara (Inventor); Valdez, Thomas I. (Inventor)

2002-01-01

A device for electrolysis of an aqueous solution of an organic fuel. The electrolyte is a solid-state polymer membrane with anode and cathode catalysts on both surfaces for electro-oxidization and electro-reduction. A low-cost and portable hydrogen generator can be made based on the device with organic fuels such as methanol.

Toward an affordable and user-friendly visual motion capture system.

PubMed

Bonnet, V; Sylla, N; Cherubini, A; Gonzáles, A; Azevedo Coste, C; Fraisse, P; Venture, G

2014-01-01

The present study aims at designing and evaluating a low-cost, simple and portable system for arm joint angle estimation during grasping-like motions. The system is based on a single RGB-D camera and three customized markers. The automatically detected and tracked marker positions were used as inputs to an offline inverse kinematic process based on bio-mechanical constraints to reduce noise effect and handle marker occlusion. The method was validated on 4 subjects with different motions. The joint angles were estimated both with the proposed low-cost system and, a stereophotogrammetric system. Comparative analysis shows good accuracy with high correlation coefficient (r= 0.92) and low average RMS error (3.8 deg).

48 CFR 1852.237-71 - Pension portability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 6 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 true Pension portability. 1852... 1852.237-71 Pension portability. As prescribed at 1837.110-70(b), insert the following clause: Pension Portability (JAN 1997) (a) In order for pension costs attributable to employees assigned to this contract to...

High-throughput spectrometer designs in a compact form-factor: principles and applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Norton, S. M.

2013-05-01

Many compact, portable Raman spectrometers have entered the market in the past few years with applications in narcotics and hazardous material identification, as well as verification applications in pharmaceuticals and security screening. Often, the required compact form-factor has forced designers to sacrifice throughput and sensitivity for portability and low-cost. We will show that a volume phase holographic (VPH)-based spectrometer design can achieve superior throughput and thus sensitivity over conventional Czerny-Turner reflective designs. We will look in depth at the factors influencing throughput and sensitivity and illustrate specific VPH-based spectrometer examples that highlight these design principles.

Principles for new optical techniques in medical diagnostics for mHealth applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balsam, Joshua Michael

Medical diagnostics is a critical element of effective medical treatment. However, many modern and emerging diagnostic technologies are not affordable or compatible with the needs and conditions found in low-income and middle-income countries and regions. Resource-poor areas require low-cost, robust, easy-to-use, and portable diagnostics devices compatible with telemedicine (i.e. mHealth) that can be adapted to meet diverse medical needs. Many suitable devices will need to be based on optical technologies, which are used for many types of biological analyses. This dissertation describes the fabrication and detection principles for several low-cost optical technologies for mHealth applications including: (1) a webcam based multi-wavelength fluorescence plate reader, (2) a lens-free optical detector used for the detection of Botulinum A neurotoxin activity, (3) a low cost micro-array reader that allows the performance of typical fluorescence based assays demonstrated for the detection of the toxin staphylococcal enterotoxin (SEB), and (4) a wide-field flow cytometer for high throughput detection of fluorescently labeled rare cells. This dissertation discusses how these technologies can be harnessed using readily available consumer electronics components such as webcams, cell phones, CCD cameras, LEDs, and laser diodes. There are challenges in developing devices with sufficient sensitivity and specificity, and approaches are presented to overcoming these challenges to create optical detectors that can serve as low cost medical diagnostics in resource-poor settings for mHealth.

A Lab Assembled Microcontroller-Based Sensor Module for Continuous Oxygen Measurement in Portable Hypoxia Chambers

PubMed Central

Mathupala, Saroj P.; Kiousis, Sam; Szerlip, Nicholas J.

2016-01-01

Background Hypoxia-based cell culture experiments are routine and essential components of in vitro cancer research. Most laboratories use low-cost portable modular chambers to achieve hypoxic conditions for cell cultures, where the sealed chambers are purged with a gas mixture of preset O2 concentration. Studies are conducted under the assumption that hypoxia remains unaltered throughout the 48 to 72 hour duration of such experiments. Since these chambers lack any sensor or detection system to monitor gas-phase O2, the cell-based data tend to be non-uniform due to the ad hoc nature of the experimental setup. Methodology With the availability of low-cost open-source microcontroller-based electronic project kits, it is now possible for researchers to program these with easy-to-use software, link them to sensors, and place them in basic scientific apparatus to monitor and record experimental parameters. We report here the design and construction of a small-footprint kit for continuous measurement and recording of O2 concentration in modular hypoxia chambers. The low-cost assembly (US$135) consists of an Arduino-based microcontroller, data-logging freeware, and a factory pre-calibrated miniature O2 sensor. A small, intuitive software program was written by the authors to control the data input and output. The basic nature of the kit will enable any student in biology with minimal experience in hobby-electronics to assemble the system and edit the program parameters to suit individual experimental conditions. Results/Conclusions We show the kit’s utility and stability of data output via a series of hypoxia experiments. The studies also demonstrated the critical need to monitor and adjust gas-phase O2 concentration during hypoxia-based experiments to prevent experimental errors or failure due to partial loss of hypoxia. Thus, incorporating the sensor-microcontroller module to a portable hypoxia chamber provides a researcher a capability that was previously available only to labs with access to sophisticated (and expensive) cell culture incubators. PMID:26862760

A Lab Assembled Microcontroller-Based Sensor Module for Continuous Oxygen Measurement in Portable Hypoxia Chambers.

PubMed

Mathupala, Saroj P; Kiousis, Sam; Szerlip, Nicholas J

2016-01-01

Hypoxia-based cell culture experiments are routine and essential components of in vitro cancer research. Most laboratories use low-cost portable modular chambers to achieve hypoxic conditions for cell cultures, where the sealed chambers are purged with a gas mixture of preset O2 concentration. Studies are conducted under the assumption that hypoxia remains unaltered throughout the 48 to 72 hour duration of such experiments. Since these chambers lack any sensor or detection system to monitor gas-phase O2, the cell-based data tend to be non-uniform due to the ad hoc nature of the experimental setup. With the availability of low-cost open-source microcontroller-based electronic project kits, it is now possible for researchers to program these with easy-to-use software, link them to sensors, and place them in basic scientific apparatus to monitor and record experimental parameters. We report here the design and construction of a small-footprint kit for continuous measurement and recording of O2 concentration in modular hypoxia chambers. The low-cost assembly (US$135) consists of an Arduino-based microcontroller, data-logging freeware, and a factory pre-calibrated miniature O2 sensor. A small, intuitive software program was written by the authors to control the data input and output. The basic nature of the kit will enable any student in biology with minimal experience in hobby-electronics to assemble the system and edit the program parameters to suit individual experimental conditions. We show the kit's utility and stability of data output via a series of hypoxia experiments. The studies also demonstrated the critical need to monitor and adjust gas-phase O2 concentration during hypoxia-based experiments to prevent experimental errors or failure due to partial loss of hypoxia. Thus, incorporating the sensor-microcontroller module to a portable hypoxia chamber provides a researcher a capability that was previously available only to labs with access to sophisticated (and expensive) cell culture incubators.

Low power data acquisition unit for autonomous geophysical instrumentation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prystai, Andrii

2017-04-01

The development of an autonomous instrumentation for field research is always a challenge which needs knowledge and application of recent advances in technology and components production. Using this information a super-low power, low-cost, stand-alone GPS time synchronized data acquisition unit was created. It comprises an extended utilization of the microcontroller modules and peripherals and special firmware with flexible PLL parameters. The present report is devoted to a discussion of synchronization mode of data sampling in autonomous field instruments with possibility of GPS random breaks. In the result the achieved sampling timing accuracy is better than ± 60 ns without phase jumps and distortion plus fixed shift depending on the sample rate. The main application of the system is for simultaneous measurement of several channels from magnetic and electric sensors in field conditions for magneto-telluric instruments. First utilization of this system was in the new developed versions of LEMI-026 magnetometer and LEMI-423 field station, where it was applied for digitizing of up to 6 analogue channels with 32-bit resolution in the range ± 2.5V, digital filtration (LPF) and maximum sample rate 4kS/s. It is ready for record in 5 minutes after being turned on. Recently, this system was successfully utilized with the drone-portable magnetometers destined for the search of metallic objects, like UXO, in rural areas, research of engineering underground structure and for mapping ore bodies. The successful tests of drone-portable system were made and tests results are also discussed.

A non-contact capacitance based electrocardiograph and associated heart-rate detection using enhanced Fourier interpolation method.

PubMed

Kumar Thakur, Rupak; Anoop, C S

2015-08-01

Cardio-vascular health monitoring has gained considerable attention in the recent years. Principle of non-contact capacitive electrocardiograph (ECG) and its applicability as a valuable, low-cost, easy-to-use scheme for cardio-vascular health monitoring has been demonstrated in some recent research papers. In this paper, we develop a complete non-contact ECG system using a suitable front-end electronic circuit and a heart-rate (HR) measurement unit using enhanced Fourier interpolation technique. The front-end electronic circuit is realized using low-cost, readily available components and the proposed HR measurement unit is designed to achieve fairly accurate results. The entire system has been extensively tested to verify its efficacy and test results show that the developed system can estimate HR with an accuracy of ±2 beats. Detailed tests have been conducted to validate the performance of the system for different cloth thicknesses of the subject. Some basic tests which illustrate the application of the proposed system for heart-rate variability estimation has been conducted and results reported. The developed system can be used as a portable, reliable, long-term cardiac health monitoring device and can be extended to human drowsiness detection.

Low cost method for manufacturing a data acquisition system with USB connectivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niculescu, V.; Dobre, R. A.; Popovici, E.

2016-06-01

In the process of designing and manufacturing an electronic system the digital oscilloscope plays an essential role but it also represents one of the most expensive equipment present on the typical workbench. In order to make electronic design more accessible to students and hobbyists, an affordable data acquisition system was imagined. The paper extensively presents the development and testing of a low cost, medium speed, data acquisition system which can be used in a wide range of electronic measurement and debugging applications, assuring also great portability due to the small physical dimensions. Each hardware functional block and is thoroughly described, highlighting the challenges that occurred as well as the solutions to overcome them. The entire system was successfully manufactured using high quality components to assure increased reliability, and high frequency PCB materials and techniques were preferred. The measured values determined based on test signals were compared to the ones obtained using a digital oscilloscope available on the market and differences less than 1% were observed.

Low-cost compact ECG with graphic LCD and phonocardiogram system design.

PubMed

Kara, Sadik; Kemaloğlu, Semra; Kirbaş, Samil

2006-06-01

Till today, many different ECG devices are made in developing countries. In this study, low cost, small size, portable LCD screen ECG device, and phonocardiograph were designed. With designed system, heart sounds that take synchronously with ECG signal are heard as sensitive. Improved system consist three units; Unit 1, ECG circuit, filter and amplifier structure. Unit 2, heart sound acquisition circuit. Unit 3, microcontroller, graphic LCD and ECG signal sending unit to computer. Our system can be used easily in different departments of the hospital, health institution and clinics, village clinic and also in houses because of its small size structure and other benefits. In this way, it is possible that to see ECG signal and hear heart sounds as synchronously and sensitively. In conclusion, heart sounds are heard on the part of both doctor and patient because sounds are given to environment with a tiny speaker. Thus, the patient knows and hears heart sounds him/herself and is acquainted by doctor about healthy condition.

Selective and reversible ammonia gas detection with nanoporous film functionalized silicon photonic micro-ring resonator.

PubMed

Yebo, Nebiyu A; Sree, Sreeprasanth Pulinthanathu; Levrau, Elisabeth; Detavernier, Christophe; Hens, Zeger; Martens, Johan A; Baets, Roel

2012-05-21

Portable, low cost and real-time gas sensors have a considerable potential in various biomedical and industrial applications. For such applications, nano-photonic gas sensors based on standard silicon fabrication technology offer attractive opportunities. Deposition of high surface area nano-porous coatings on silicon photonic sensors is a means to achieve selective, highly sensitive and multiplexed gas detection on an optical chip. Here we demonstrate selective and reversible ammonia gas detection with functionalized silicon-on-insulator optical micro-ring resonators. The micro-ring resonators are coated with acidic nano-porous aluminosilicate films for specific ammonia sensing, which results in a reversible response to NH(3)with selectivity relative to CO(2). The ammonia detection limit is estimated at about 5 ppm. The detectors reach a steady response to NH(3) within 30 and return to their base level within 60 to 90 seconds. The work opens perspectives on development of nano-photonic sensors for real-time, non-invasive, low cost and light weight biomedical and industrial sensing applications.

Hybrid GMR Sensor Detecting 950 pT/sqrt(Hz) at 1 Hz and Room Temperature

PubMed Central

Guedes, André; Macedo, Rita; Jaramillo, Gerardo; Freitas, Paulo P.; Horsley, David A.

2018-01-01

Advances in the magnetic sensing technology have been driven by the increasing demand for the capability of measuring ultrasensitive magnetic fields. Among other emerging applications, the detection of magnetic fields in the picotesla range is crucial for biomedical applications. In this work Picosense reports a millimeter-scale, low-power hybrid magnetoresistive-piezoelectric magnetometer with subnanotesla sensitivity at low frequency. Through an innovative noise-cancelation mechanism, the 1/f noise in the MR sensors is surpassed by the mechanical modulation of the external magnetic fields in the high frequency regime. A modulation efficiency of 13% was obtained enabling a final device’s sensitivity of ~950 pT/Hz1/2 at 1 Hz. This hybrid device proved to be capable of measuring biomagnetic signals generated in the heart in an unshielded environment. This result paves the way for the development of a portable, contactless, low-cost and low-power magnetocardiography device. PMID:29509677

A biodegradable colorimetric film for rapid low-cost field determination of formaldehyde contamination by digital image colorimetry.

PubMed

Wongniramaikul, Worawit; Limsakul, Wadcharawadee; Choodum, Aree

2018-05-30

A biodegradable colorimetric film was fabricated on the lid of portable tube for in-tube formaldehyde detection. Based on the entrapment of colorimetric reagents within a thin film of tapioca starch, the yellow reaction product was observed with formaldehyde. Intensity of the blue channel from the digital image of yellow product showed a linear relationship in the range of 0-25 mg L -1 with low detection limit of 0.7 ± 0.1 mg L -1 . Inter-day precision of 0.61-3.10%RSD were obtained with less than 4.2% relative error from control samples. The developed method was applied for various food samples in Phuket and formaldehyde concentration range was non-detectable to 1.413 mg kg -1 . The quantified concentrations of formaldehyde in fish and squid samples provided relative errors of -7.7% and +10.8% compared to spectrophotometry. This low cost sensor (∼0.04 USD/test) with digital image colorimetry was thus an effective alternative for formaldehyde detection in food sample. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Smartphone based hand-held quantitative phase microscope using the transport of intensity equation method.

PubMed

Meng, Xin; Huang, Huachuan; Yan, Keding; Tian, Xiaolin; Yu, Wei; Cui, Haoyang; Kong, Yan; Xue, Liang; Liu, Cheng; Wang, Shouyu

2016-12-20

In order to realize high contrast imaging with portable devices for potential mobile healthcare, we demonstrate a hand-held smartphone based quantitative phase microscope using the transport of intensity equation method. With a cost-effective illumination source and compact microscope system, multi-focal images of samples can be captured by the smartphone's camera via manual focusing. Phase retrieval is performed using a self-developed Android application, which calculates sample phases from multi-plane intensities via solving the Poisson equation. We test the portable microscope using a random phase plate with known phases, and to further demonstrate its performance, a red blood cell smear, a Pap smear and monocot root and broad bean epidermis sections are also successfully imaged. Considering its advantages as an accurate, high-contrast, cost-effective and field-portable device, the smartphone based hand-held quantitative phase microscope is a promising tool which can be adopted in the future in remote healthcare and medical diagnosis.

Evaluation of a Portable Photometer for Estimating Diesel Particulate Matter Concentrations in an Underground Limestone Mine

PubMed Central

Watts, Winthrop F.; Gladis, David D.; Schumacher, Matthew F.; Ragatz, Adam C.; Kittelson, David B.

2010-01-01

A low cost, battery-operated, portable, real-time aerosol analyzer is not available for monitoring diesel particulate matter (DPM) concentrations in underground mines. This study summarizes a field evaluation conducted at an underground limestone mine to evaluate the potential of the TSI AM 510 portable photometer (equipped with a Dorr-Oliver cyclone and 1.0-μm impactor) to qualitatively track time-weighted average mass and elemental, organic, and total carbon (TC) measurements associated with diesel emissions. The calibration factor corrected correlation coefficient (R2) between the underground TC and photometer measurements was 0.93. The main issues holding back the use of a photometer for real-time estimation of DPM in an underground mine are the removal of non-DPM-associated particulate matter from the aerosol stream using devices, such as a cyclone and/or impactor and calibration of the photometer to mine-specific aerosol. PMID:20410071

Portable conduction velocity experiments using earthworms for the college and high school neuroscience teaching laboratory

PubMed Central

Shannon, Kyle M.; Gage, Gregory J.; Jankovic, Aleksandra; Wilson, W. Jeffrey

2014-01-01

The earthworm is ideal for studying action potential conduction velocity in a classroom setting, as its simple linear anatomy allows easy axon length measurements and the worm's sparse coding allows single action potentials to be easily identified. The earthworm has two giant fiber systems (lateral and medial) with different conduction velocities that can be easily measured by manipulating electrode placement and the tactile stimulus. Here, we present a portable and robust experimental setup that allows students to perform conduction velocity measurements within a 30-min to 1-h laboratory session. Our improvement over this well-known preparation is the combination of behaviorally relevant tactile stimuli (avoiding electrical stimulation) with the invention of minimal, low-cost, and portable equipment. We tested these experiments during workshops in both a high school and college classroom environment and found positive learning outcomes when we compared pre- and posttests taken by the students. PMID:24585472

A Low-Cost Viscometer from an Opto-Mechanical Mouse

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Doroodmand, Mohammad Mahdi; Maleki, Norooz; Kazemi, Hojjatollah

2010-01-01

A simple, sensitive, and portable viscometer has been designed using an opto-mechanical mouse. The viscosity of a fluid is measured using the infrared light-emitting diodes and the optical diodes of an opto-mechanical mouse. These components are positioned near the top and bottom of a glass tube containing the fluid to be measured. The viscosity…

Instrument Records And Plays Back Acceleration Signals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bozeman, Richard J.

1994-01-01

Small, battery-powered, hand-held instrument feeds power to accelerometer and records time-varying component of output for 15 seconds in analog form. No power needed to maintain content of memory; memory chip removed after recording and stored indefinitely. Recorded signal plays back at any time up to several years later. Principal advantages: compactness, portability, and low cost.

Rapid Detection of Bacillus anthracis Spores Using Immunomagnetic Separation and Amperometry

PubMed Central

Waller, David F.; Hew, Brian E.; Holdaway, Charlie; Jen, Michael; Peckham, Gabriel D.

2016-01-01

Portable detection and quantitation methods for Bacillus anthracis (anthrax) spores in pure culture or in environmental samples are lacking. Here, an amperometric immunoassay has been developed utilizing immunomagnetic separation to capture the spores and remove potential interferents from test samples followed by amperometric measurement on a field-portable instrument. Antibody-conjugated magnetic beads and antibody-conjugated glucose oxidase were used in a sandwich format for the capture and detection of target spores. Glucose oxidase activity of spore pellets was measured indirectly via amperometry by applying a bias voltage after incubation with glucose, horseradish peroxidase, and the electron mediator 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid). Target capture was mediated by polyclonal antisera, whereas monoclonal antibodies were used for signal generation. This strategy maximized sensitivity (500 target spores, 5000 cfu/mL), while also providing a good specificity for Bacillus anthracis spores. Minimal signal deviation occurs in the presence of environmental interferents including soil and modified pH conditions, demonstrating the strengths of immunomagnetic separation. The simultaneous incubation of capture and detection antibodies and rapid substrate development (5 min) result in short sample-to-signal times (less than an hour). With attributes comparable or exceeding that of ELISA and LFDs, amperometry is a low-cost, low-weight, and practical method for detecting anthrax spores in the field. PMID:27999382

Amplification of interference color by using liquid crystal for protein detection

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhu, Qingdi; Yang, Kun-Lin, E-mail: cheyk@nus.edu.sg

Micrometer-sized, periodic protein lines printed on a solid surface cause interference color which is invisible to the naked eye. However, the interference color can be amplified by using a thin layer of liquid crystal (LC) covered on the surface to form a phase diffraction grating. Strong interference color can thus be observed under ambient light. By using the LC-amplified interference color, we demonstrate naked-eye detection of a model protein—immunoglobulin G (IgG). Limit of detection can reach 20 μg/ml of IgG without using any instrumentation. This detection method is potentially useful for the development of low-cost and portable biosensors.

Hand VR Exergame for Occupational Health Care.

PubMed

Ortiz, Saskia; Uribe-Quevedo, Alvaro; Kapralos, Bill

2016-01-01

The widespread use and ubiquity of mobile computing technologies such as smartphones, tablets, laptops and portable gaming consoles has led to an increase in musculoskeletal disorders due to overuse, bad posture, repetitive movements, fixed postures and physical de-conditioning caused by low muscular demands while using (and over-using) these devices. In this paper we present the development of a hand motion-based virtual reality-based exergame for occupational health purposes that allows the user to perform simple exercises using a cost-effective non-invasive motion capture device to help overcome and prevent some of the muskoloskeletal problems associated with the over-use of keyboards and mobile devices.

The Impact of Rechargeable Batteries: Quantifying the Cost and Weight for a Marine Infantry Battalion

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-12-01

Suitcase Portable Charger (SPC), Vehicle - Mounted Charger (VMC), Solar Portable Power System (SPACES) 15. NUMBER OF PAGES 77 16. PRICE CODE 17...battery (MCCOC, 2010): the Soldier Portable Charger (SPC), the Vehicle Mounted Charger (VMC), and the Solar Portable Alternative Communication Energy...Suitcase Portable Charger TO&E Table of Organization and Equipment UHF Ultra High Frequency VHF Very High Frequency VMC Vehicle Mounted

A low-cost, portable, laser heterodyne radiometer for validating passive satellite observations of column carbon dioxide and methane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilson, E. L.; DiGregorio, A.; Villanueva, G. L.; Miletti, K.; Grunberg, C.; Grunberg, M.; Floyd, M.; Menendez, A. R.

2017-12-01

We present a low-cost, portable, miniaturized, laser heterodyne radiometer (mini-LHR) capable of measuring column carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) in remote locations to validate passive satellite observations. A benefit of the portability is that mini-LHR instruments can be calibrated and compared site-by-side to quantify any internal biases, or any biases in stationary column instruments such as those in the total carbon column observing network (TCCON). This is the latest iteration of an instrument that has been under development by our team since 2009. During our recent Interdisciplinary Science (IDS) effort that involved measuring carbon emissions over thawing permafrost, it became clear that our mini-LHR needed to be redesigned to be significantly smaller, lighter, and to operate from a small solar panel so that it could be easily carried to the field sites located within the Bonanza Creek Research Forest near Fairbanks, AK. The boreal peatland sites at Bonanza Creek have forests that are underlain by cold soils, permafrost, collapse scar thermokarst bogs resulting from permafrost thaw, and rich fens with various underlying sediments and gravels that are not frozen. While these sites are extremely interesting for their role in carbon storage, the practical issue with these sites is that they are very wet (the fen site for example is periodically under several inches of water) and the trails to reach these sites are extremely muddy, narrow, and populated with swarms of biting insects. The soils at these sites are delicate and easily damaged by excessive foot traffic. They are also prone to periodic wild fires - making permanent column instrument installations impractical. Here, we compare data from the permafrost field work as well as data collected as part of the Hawai'i Space Exploration Analog and Simulation (Hi-SEAS) project where crewmembers are currently testing the mini-LHR on an isolated Mars-like site on the Mauna Loa side of the saddle area on the Big Island of Hawaii at approximately 8200 feet above sea level. These different remote locations demonstrate how the portable mini-LHR could be deployed to ground sites that have not been able to be validated in the past or where key data products are missing.

IQ-Station: A Low Cost Portable Immersive Environment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Eric Whiting; Patrick O'Leary; William Sherman

2010-11-01

The emergence of inexpensive 3D TV’s, affordable input and rendering hardware and open-source software has created a yeasty atmosphere for the development of low-cost immersive environments (IE). A low cost IE system, or IQ-station, fashioned from commercial off the shelf technology (COTS), coupled with a targeted immersive application can be a viable laboratory instrument for enhancing scientific workflow for exploration and analysis. The use of an IQ-station in a laboratory setting also has the potential of quickening the adoption of a more sophisticated immersive environment as a critical enabler in modern scientific and engineering workflows. Prior work in immersive environmentsmore » generally required either a head mounted display (HMD) system or a large projector-based implementation both of which have limitations in terms of cost, usability, or space requirements. The solution presented here provides an alternative platform providing a reasonable immersive experience that addresses those limitations. Our work brings together the needed hardware and software to create a fully integrated immersive display and interface system that can be readily deployed in laboratories and common workspaces. By doing so, it is now feasible for immersive technologies to be included in researchers’ day-to-day workflows. The IQ-Station sets the stage for much wider adoption of immersive environments outside the small communities of virtual reality centers.« less

A Web-based cost-effective training tool with possible application to brain injury rehabilitation.

PubMed

Wang, Peijun; Kreutzer, Ina Anna; Bjärnemo, Robert; Davies, Roy C

2004-06-01

Virtual reality (VR) has provoked enormous interest in the medical community. In particular, VR offers therapists new approaches for improving rehabilitation effects. However, most of these VR assistant tools are not very portable, extensible or economical. Due to the vast amount of 3D data, they are not suitable for Internet transfer. Furthermore, in order to run these VR systems smoothly, special hardware devices are needed. As a result, existing VR assistant tools tend to be available in hospitals but not in patients' homes. To overcome these disadvantages, as a case study, this paper proposes a Web-based Virtual Ticket Machine, called WBVTM, using VRML [VRML Consortium, The Virtual Reality Modeling Language: International Standard ISO/IEC DIS 14772-1, 1997, available at ], Java and EAI (External Authoring Interface) [Silicon Graphics, Inc., The External Authoring Interface (EAI), available at ], to help people with acquired brain injury (ABI) to relearn basic living skills at home at a low cost. As these technologies are open standard and feature usability on the Internet, WBVTM achieves the goals of portability, easy accessibility and cost-effectiveness.

[Development of opened instrument for generating and measuring physiological signal].

PubMed

Chen, Longcong; Hu, Guohu; Gao, Bin

2004-12-01

An opened instrument with liquid crystal display (LCD) for generating and measuring physiological signal is introduced in this paper. Based on a single-chip microcomputer. the instrument uses the technique of LCD screen to display signal wave and information, and it realizes man-machine interaction by keyboard. This instrument can produce not only defined signal in common use by utilizing important saved data and relevant arithmetic, but also user-defined signal. Therefore, it is open to produce signal. In addition, this instrument has strong extension because of its modularized design as computer, which has much function such as displaying, measuring and saving physiological signal, and many features such as low power consumption, small volume, low cost and portability. Hence this instrument is convenient for experiment teaching, clinic examining, maintaining of medical instrument.

Portable detection of trace metals in airborne particulates and sediments via μPADs and smartphone.

PubMed

Jia, Yuan; Dong, Hui; Zheng, Jianping; Sun, Hao

2017-11-01

Particulate matter (PM), a key indicator of air pollution by natural and anthropogenic activities, contributes to a wide spectrum of diseases that lead to a shortening of life expectancy. It has been recognized that trace metals in airborne PM are highly toxic and can be correlated with lesion in respiratory, gastrointestinal, immunological, and hematological systems. Traditional methods for trace metal assay require sophisticated instrumentations and highly trained operators in centralized laboratories. In this work, by integrating the technologies of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices, additive manufacturing, smartphone, and colorimetric sensing, we developed the first smartphone based paper microfluidic platform for portable, disposable, and quantitative measurements of cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), and iron (Fe) in ambient air and street sediments. On a single A4-sized paper, 48 devices were fabricated in under 30 s with a total cost of ∼$1.9. On each device, 12 reaction units were patterned and used for colorimetric tests. Particulate samples from urban ambient air and street sediments were collected, processed, and analyzed. Signals of the on-chip complexation product were recorded using a smartphone camera and processed by a self-developed app on an iOS system. For precisely controlling the object distance, chip position, and luminance, a hand-held 3D cellphone housing was designed and printed. The detection limits of Co, Cu, and Fe were determined to be 8.2, 45.8, and 186.0 ng, while the linear dynamic ranges were calculated to be 8.2-81.6, 45.8-4.58 × 10 2 , and 1.86 × 10 2 -1.86 × 10 3  ng, representing a practically relevant device performance with a significant reduction in the detection cost and time consumption. Trace metals in ambient air and sediments of two cities in China have been quantified portably, thus demonstrating the utility of our system in improving strategies for air pollution control in low-resource settings.

Portable amperometric immunosensor for histamine detection using Prussian blue-chitosan-gold nanoparticle nanocomposite films.

PubMed

Dong, Xiu-Xiu; Yang, Jin-Yi; Luo, Lin; Zhang, Yi-Feng; Mao, Chuanbin; Sun, Yuan-Ming; Lei, Hong-Tao; Shen, Yu-Dong; Beier, Ross C; Xu, Zhen-Lin

2017-12-15

Histamine (HA) is a biogenic amine that can accumulate to high concentration levels in food as a result of microbial activity and can cause toxic effects in consumers. In this work, a portable electrochemical immunosensor capable of detecting HA with high sensitivity and selectivity was developed. Prussian blue-chitosan-gold nanoparticle (PB-CS-AuNP) nanocomposite films with excellent biocompatibility were synthesized and characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. The PB-CS-AuNP were coated onto a screen-printed electrode by one-step electrodeposition and used to conjugate the HA ovalbumin conjugate (HA-Ag). HA was determined by a competition between the coating HA-Ag and the HRP labeled HA antibody (HRP-HA-Ab). After careful optimization of assay conditions and Box-Behnken analysis, the developed immunosensor showed a linear range from 0.01 to 100μg/mL for HA in fish samples. The average recoveries from spiked samples ranged from 97.25% to 105%. The biosensor also showed good specificity, reproducibility, and stability, indicating its potential application in monitoring HA in a simple and low cost manner. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Flexible Transparent Supercapacitors Based on Hierarchical Nanocomposite Films.

PubMed

Chen, Fanhong; Wan, Pengbo; Xu, Haijun; Sun, Xiaoming

2017-05-31

Flexible transparent electronic devices have recently gained immense popularity in smart wearable electronics and touch screen devices, which accelerates the development of the portable power sources with reliable flexibility, robust transparency and integration to couple these electronic devices. For potentially coupled as energy storage modules in various flexible, transparent and portable electronics, the flexible transparent supercapacitors are developed and assembled from hierarchical nanocomposite films of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and aligned polyaniline (PANI) nanoarrays upon their synergistic advantages. The nanocomposite films are fabricated from in situ PANI nanoarrays preparation in a blended solution of aniline monomers and rGO onto the flexible, transparent, and stably conducting film (FTCF) substrate, which is obtained by coating silver nanowires (Ag NWs) layer with Meyer rod and then coating of rGO layer on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate. Optimization of the transparency, the specific capacitance, and the flexibility resulted in the obtained all-solid state nanocomposite supercapacitors exhibiting enhanced capacitance performance, good cycling stability, excellent flexibility, and superior transparency. It provides promising application prospects for exploiting flexible, low-cost, transparent, and high-performance energy storage devices to be coupled into various flexible, transparent, and wearable electronic devices.

The sonic window: second generation results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walker, William F.; Fuller, Michael I.; Brush, Edward V.; Eames, Matthew D. C.; Owen, Kevin; Ranganathan, Karthik; Blalock, Travis N.; Hossack, John A.

2006-03-01

Medical Ultrasound Imaging is widely used clinically because of its relatively low cost, portability, lack of ionizing radiation, and real-time nature. However, even with these advantages ultrasound has failed to permeate the broad array of clinical applications where its use could be of value. A prime example of this untapped potential is the routine use of ultrasound to guide intravenous access. In this particular application existing systems lack the required portability, low cost, and ease-of-use required for widespread acceptance. Our team has been working for a number of years to develop an extremely low-cost, pocket-sized, and intuitive ultrasound imaging system that we refer to as the "Sonic Window." We have previously described the first generation Sonic Window prototype that was a bench-top device using a 1024 element, fully populated array operating at a center frequency of 3.3 MHz. Through a high degree of custom front-end integration combined with multiplexing down to a 2 channel PC based digitizer this system acquired a full set of RF data over a course of 512 transmit events. While initial results were encouraging, this system exhibited limitations resulting from low SNR, relatively coarse array sampling, and relatively slow data acquisition. We have recently begun assembling a second-generation Sonic Window system. This system uses a 3600 element fully sampled array operating at 5.0 MHz with a 300 micron element pitch. This system extends the integration of the first generation system to include front-end protection, pre-amplification, a programmable bandpass filter, four sample and holds, and four A/D converters for all 3600 channels in a set of custom integrated circuits with a combined area smaller than the 1.8 x 1.8 cm footprint of the transducer array. We present initial results from this front-end and present benchmark results from a software beamformer implemented on the Analog Devices BF-561 DSP. We discuss our immediate plans for further integration and testing. This second prototype represents a major reduction in size and forms the foundation of a fully functional, fully integrated, pocket sized prototype.

Integrated Optical Mach-Zehnder Interferometer Based on Organic-Inorganic Hybrids for Photonics-on-a-Chip Biosensing Applications

PubMed Central

Oliveira-Silva, Rui; Silva, Nuno J. O.; André, Paulo S.; Ferreira, Rute A. S.

2018-01-01

The development of portable low-cost integrated optics-based biosensors for photonics-on-a-chip devices for real-time diagnosis are of great interest, offering significant advantages over current analytical methods. We report the fabrication and characterization of an optical sensor based on a Mach-Zehnder interferometer to monitor the growing concentration of bacteria in a liquid medium. The device pattern was imprinted on transparent self-patternable organic-inorganic di-ureasil hybrid films by direct UV-laser, reducing the complexity and cost production compared with lithographic techniques or three-dimensional (3D) patterning using femtosecond lasers. The sensor performance was evaluated using, as an illustrative example, E. coli cell growth in an aqueous medium. The measured sensitivity (2 × 10−4 RIU) and limit of detection (LOD = 2 × 10−4) are among the best values known for low-refractive index contrast sensors. Furthermore, the di-ureasil hybrid used to produce this biosensor has additional advantages, such as mechanical flexibility, thermal stability, and low insertion losses due to fiber-device refractive index mismatch (~1.49). Therefore, the proposed sensor constitutes a direct, compact, fast, and cost-effective solution for monitoring the concentration of lived-cells. PMID:29534514

Coping With Spatial Attention in Real Space: A Low-Cost Portable Testing System for the Investigation of Visuo-Spatial Processing in the Human Brain

PubMed Central

Wolfe, Benjamin; Rushmore, Richard J.; Valero-Cabré, Antoni

2010-01-01

While two-dimensional stimuli may be easily presented with any computer, an apparatus which allows a range of stimuli to be presented in three dimensions is not easily or cheaply available to researchers or clinicians. To fill this gap, we have developed the Realspace Testing System (RTS) which addresses the need for a flexible and multimodal stimulus presentation system capable of displaying stimuli in a three dimensional space with a high degree of temporal accuracy. The RTS is able to control twenty-six channels of visual or audio stimuli, to send trigger pulses during each trial to external devices, such as a Transcranial Magnetic Stimulator, and to record subject responses during the testing sessions. The RTS is flexible, portable and can be used in laboratory or clinical settings as required while being built at a low cost using off the shelf components. We have tested the RTS by performing an exploratory experiment on the role of right posterior parietal cortex in visuospatial processing in conjunction with online Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and verified that the system can accurately present stimuli as needed while triggering a TMS pulse during each trial at the required time. The RTS could be appealing and useful to a range of researchers or clinicians who may choose to use it much as we have designed it, or use it in its current state as a starting point to customize their stimulus control systems in real space. PMID:20079374

a Low-Cost and Portable System for 3d Reconstruction of Texture-Less Objects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hosseininaveh, A.; Yazdan, R.; Karami, A.; Moradi, M.; Ghorbani, F.

2015-12-01

The optical methods for 3D modelling of objects can be classified into two categories including image-based and range-based methods. Structure from Motion is one of the image-based methods implemented in commercial software. In this paper, a low-cost and portable system for 3D modelling of texture-less objects is proposed. This system includes a rotating table designed and developed by using a stepper motor and a very light rotation plate. The system also has eight laser light sources with very dense and strong beams which provide a relatively appropriate pattern on texture-less objects. In this system, regarding to the step of stepper motor, images are semi automatically taken by a camera. The images can be used in structure from motion procedures implemented in Agisoft software.To evaluate the performance of the system, two dark objects were used. The point clouds of these objects were obtained by spraying a light powders on the objects and exploiting a GOM laser scanner. Then these objects were placed on the proposed turntable. Several convergent images were taken from each object while the laser light sources were projecting the pattern on the objects. Afterward, the images were imported in VisualSFM as a fully automatic software package for generating an accurate and complete point cloud. Finally, the obtained point clouds were compared to the point clouds generated by the GOM laser scanner. The results showed the ability of the proposed system to produce a complete 3D model from texture-less objects.

A wireless handheld probe with spectrally constrained evolution strategies for diffuse optical imaging of tissue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Flexman, M. L.; Kim, H. K.; Stoll, R.; Khalil, M. A.; Fong, C. J.; Hielscher, A. H.

2012-03-01

We present a low-cost, portable, wireless diffuse optical imaging device. The handheld device is fast, portable, and can be applied to a wide range of both static and dynamic imaging applications including breast cancer, functional brain imaging, and peripheral artery disease. The continuous-wave probe has four near-infrared wavelengths and uses digital detection techniques to perform measurements at 2.3 Hz. Using a multispectral evolution algorithm for chromophore reconstruction, we can measure absolute oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin concentration as well as scattering in tissue. Performance of the device is demonstrated using a series of liquid phantoms comprised of Intralipid®, ink, and dye.

The Economics of Educational Software Portability.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oliveira, Joao Batista Araujo e

1990-01-01

Discusses economic issues that affect the portability of educational software. Topics discussed include economic reasons for portability, including cost effectiveness; the nature and behavior of educational computer software markets; the role of producers, buyers, and consumers; potential effects of government policies; computer piracy; and…

Portable Parallel Programming for the Dynamic Load Balancing of Unstructured Grid Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Biswas, Rupak; Das, Sajal K.; Harvey, Daniel; Oliker, Leonid

1999-01-01

The ability to dynamically adapt an unstructured -rid (or mesh) is a powerful tool for solving computational problems with evolving physical features; however, an efficient parallel implementation is rather difficult, particularly from the view point of portability on various multiprocessor platforms We address this problem by developing PLUM, tin automatic anti architecture-independent framework for adaptive numerical computations in a message-passing environment. Portability is demonstrated by comparing performance on an SP2, an Origin2000, and a T3E, without any code modifications. We also present a general-purpose load balancer that utilizes symmetric broadcast networks (SBN) as the underlying communication pattern, with a goal to providing a global view of system loads across processors. Experiments on, an SP2 and an Origin2000 demonstrate the portability of our approach which achieves superb load balance at the cost of minimal extra overhead.

Advanced uncooled infrared system electronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neal, Henry W.

1998-07-01

Over the past two decades, Raytheon Systems Company (RSC), formerly Texas Instruments Defense Systems & Electronics Group, developed a robust family of products based on a low- cost, hybrid ferroelectric (FE) uncooled focal-plane array (FPA) aimed at meeting the needs for thermal imaging products across both military and commercial markets. Over the years, RSC supplied uncooled infrared (IR) sensors for applications such as in combat vehicles, man-portable weaponry, personnel helmets, and installation security. Also, various commercial IR systems for use in automobiles, boats, law enforcement, hand-held applications, building/site security, and fire fighting have been developed. These products resulted in a high degree of success where cooled IR platforms are too bulky and costly, and other uncooled implementations are less reliable or lack significant cost advantage. Proof of this great success is found in the large price reductions, the unprecedented monthly production rates, and the wide diversity of products and customers realized in recent years. The ever- changing needs of these existing and potential customers continue to fuel the advancement of both the primary technologies and the production capabilities of uncooled IR systems at RSC. This paper will describe a development project intended to further advance the system electronics capabilities of future uncooled IR products.

Portable recording in the assessment of obstructive sleep apnea. ASDA standards of practice.

PubMed

Ferber, R; Millman, R; Coppola, M; Fleetham, J; Murray, C F; Iber, C; McCall, V; Nino-Murcia, G; Pressman, M; Sanders, M

1994-06-01

The objective assessment of patients with a presumptive diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has primarily used attended polysomnographic study. Recent technologic advances and issues of availability, convenience and cost have led to a rapid increase in the use of portable recording devices. However, limited scientific information has been published regarding the evaluation of the efficacy, accuracy, validity, utility, cost effectiveness and limitations of this portable equipment. Attaining a clear assessment of the role of portable devices is complicated by the multiplicity of recording systems and the variability of clinical settings in which they have been analyzed. This paper reviews the current knowledge base regarding portable recording in the assessment of OSA, including technical considerations, validation studies, potential advantages and disadvantages, issues of safety, current clinical usage and areas most in need of further study.

A low-cost, portable, high-throughput wireless sensor system for phonocardiography applications.

PubMed

Sa-Ngasoongsong, Akkarapol; Kunthong, Jakkrit; Sarangan, Venkatesh; Cai, Xinwei; Bukkapatnam, Satish T S

2012-01-01

This paper presents the design and testing of a wireless sensor system developed using a Microchip PICDEM developer kit to acquire and monitor human heart sounds for phonocardiography applications. This system can serve as a cost-effective option to the recent developments in wireless phonocardiography sensors that have primarily focused on Bluetooth technology. This wireless sensor system has been designed and developed in-house using off-the-shelf components and open source software for remote and mobile applications. The small form factor (3.75 cm × 5 cm × 1 cm), high throughput (6,000 Hz data streaming rate), and low cost ($13 per unit for a 1,000 unit batch) of this wireless sensor system make it particularly attractive for phonocardiography and other sensing applications. The experimental results of sensor signal analysis using several signal characterization techniques suggest that this wireless sensor system can capture both fundamental heart sounds (S1 and S2), and is also capable of capturing abnormal heart sounds (S3 and S4) and heart murmurs without aliasing. The results of a denoising application using Wavelet Transform show that the undesirable noises of sensor signals in the surrounding environment can be reduced dramatically. The exercising experiment results also show that this proposed wireless PCG system can capture heart sounds over different heart conditions simulated by varying heart rates of six subjects over a range of 60-180 Hz through exercise testing.

A Low-Cost, Portable, High-Throughput Wireless Sensor System for Phonocardiography Applications

PubMed Central

Sa-ngasoongsong, Akkarapol; Kunthong, Jakkrit; Sarangan, Venkatesh; Cai, Xinwei; Bukkapatnam, Satish T. S.

2012-01-01

This paper presents the design and testing of a wireless sensor system developed using a Microchip PICDEM developer kit to acquire and monitor human heart sounds for phonocardiography applications. This system can serve as a cost-effective option to the recent developments in wireless phonocardiography sensors that have primarily focused on Bluetooth technology. This wireless sensor system has been designed and developed in-house using off-the-shelf components and open source software for remote and mobile applications. The small form factor (3.75 cm × 5 cm × 1 cm), high throughput (6,000 Hz data streaming rate), and low cost ($13 per unit for a 1,000 unit batch) of this wireless sensor system make it particularly attractive for phonocardiography and other sensing applications. The experimental results of sensor signal analysis using several signal characterization techniques suggest that this wireless sensor system can capture both fundamental heart sounds (S1 and S2), and is also capable of capturing abnormal heart sounds (S3 and S4) and heart murmurs without aliasing. The results of a denoising application using Wavelet Transform show that the undesirable noises of sensor signals in the surrounding environment can be reduced dramatically. The exercising experiment results also show that this proposed wireless PCG system can capture heart sounds over different heart conditions simulated by varying heart rates of six subjects over a range of 60–180 Hz through exercise testing. PMID:23112633

Mobile Telestroke During Ambulance Transport Is Feasible in a Rural EMS Setting: The iTREAT Study.

PubMed

Lippman, Jason M; Smith, Sherita N Chapman; McMurry, Timothy L; Sutton, Zachary G; Gunnell, Brian S; Cote, Jack; Perina, Debra G; Cattell-Gordon, David C; Rheuban, Karen S; Solenski, Nina J; Worrall, Bradford B; Southerland, Andrew M

2016-06-01

The use of telemedicine in the diagnosis and treatment of acute stroke, or telestroke, is a well-accepted method of practice improving geographic disparities in timely access to neurological expertise. We propose that mobile telestroke assessment during ambulance transport is feasible using low-cost, widely available technology. We designed a platform including a tablet-based end point, high-speed modem with commercial wireless access, external antennae, and portable mounting apparatus. Mobile connectivity testing was performed along six primary ambulance routes in a rural network. Audiovisual (AV) quality was assessed simultaneously by both an in-vehicle and an in-hospital rater using a standardized 6-point rating scale (≥4 indicating feasibility). We sought to achieve 9 min of continuous AV connectivity presumed sufficient to perform mobile telestroke assessments. Thirty test runs were completed: 93% achieved a minimum of 9 min of continuous video transmission with a mean mobile connectivity time of 18 min. Mean video and audio quality ratings were 4.51 (4.54 vehicle; 4.48 hospital) and 5.00 (5.13 in-vehicle; 4.87 hospital), respectively. Total initial cost of the system was $1,650 per ambulance. In this small, single-centered study we maintained high-quality continuous video transmission along primary ambulance corridors using a low-cost mobile telemedicine platform. The system is designed to be portable and adaptable, with generalizability for rapid assessment of emergency conditions in which direct observational exam may improve prehospital diagnosis and treatment. Thus mobile telestroke assessment is feasible using low-cost components and commercial wireless connectivity. More research is needed to demonstrate clinical reliability and efficacy in a live-patient setting.

Evaluation of photo-acoustic infrared multigas analyzer in measuring concentrations of greenhouse gases emitted from feedlot soil/manure

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Photo-acoustic infrared multigas analyzers (PIMAs) are being increasingly utilized to measure concentrations and fluxes of greenhouse gases (i.e., N2O, CO2, and CH4) at the soil surface because of their low cost, portability, and ease of operation. This research evaluated a PIMA in combination with ...

A fibre optic fluorescence sensor to measure redox level in tissues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Wen Qi; Morrison, Janna L.; Darby, Jack R. T.; Plush, Sally; Sorvina, Alexandra; Brooks, Doug; Monro, Tanya M.; Afshar Vahid, Shahraam

2018-01-01

We report the design of a fibre optic-based redox detection system for investigating differences in metabolic activities of tissues. Our system shows qualitative agreement with the results collected from a commercial two- photon microscope system. Thus, demonstrating the feasibility of building an ex vivo and in vivo redox detection system that is low cost and portable.

The Use of Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) as Green and Red/Far-Red Light Sources in Plant Physiology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jackson, David L.; And Others

1985-01-01

The use of green, red, and far-red light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as light sources for plant physiological studies is outlined and evaluated. Indicates that LED lamps have the advantage over conventional light sources in that they are lightweight, low-cost, portable, easily constructed, and do not require color filters. (Author/DH)

Core Flight System (cFS) a Low Cost Solution for SmallSats

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McComas, David; Strege, Susanne; Wilmot, Jonathan

2015-01-01

The cFS is a FSW product line that uses a layered architecture and compile-time configuration parameters which make it portable and scalable for a wide range of platforms. The software layers that defined the application run-time environment are now under a NASA-wide configuration control board with the goal of sustaining an open-source application ecosystem.

Deep-Learning Technique To Convert a Crude Piezoresistive Carbon Nanotube-Ecoflex Composite Sheet into a Smart, Portable, Disposable, and Extremely Flexible Keypad.

PubMed

Lee, Jin-Woong; Chung, Jiyong; Cho, Min-Young; Timilsina, Suman; Sohn, Keemin; Kim, Ji Sik; Sohn, Kee-Sun

2018-06-20

An extremely simple bulk sheet made of a piezoresistive carbon nanotube (CNT)-Ecoflex composite can act as a smart keypad that is portable, disposable, and flexible enough to be carried crushed inside the pocket of a pair of trousers. Both a rigid-button-imbedded, rollable (or foldable) pad and a patterned flexible pad have been introduced for use as portable keyboards. Herein, we suggest a bare, bulk, macroscale piezoresistive sheet as a replacement for these complex devices that are achievable only through high-cost fabrication processes such as patterning-based coating, printing, deposition, and mounting. A deep-learning technique based on deep neural networks (DNN) enables this extremely simple bulk sheet to play the role of a smart keypad without the use of complicated fabrication processes. To develop this keypad, instantaneous electrical resistance change was recorded at several locations on the edge of the sheet along with the exact information on the touch position and pressure for a huge number of random touches. The recorded data were used for training a DNN model that could eventually act as a brain for a simple sheet-type keypad. This simple sheet-type keypad worked perfectly and outperformed all of the existing portable keypads in terms of functionality, flexibility, disposability, and cost.

A portable battery powered microfluidic impedance cytometer with smartphone readout: towards personal health monitoring.

PubMed

Talukder, Niloy; Furniturewalla, Abbas; Le, Tuan; Chan, Matthew; Hirday, Shreyas; Cao, Xinnan; Xie, Pengfei; Lin, Zhongtian; Gholizadeh, Azam; Orbine, Steve; Javanmard, Mehdi

2017-06-01

We present a portable system for personalized blood cell counting consisting of a microfluidic impedance cytometer and portable analog readout electronics, feeding into an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), and being transmitted via Bluetooth to a user-accessible mobile application. We fabricated a microfluidic impedance cytometer with a novel portable analog readout. The novel design of the analog readout, which consists of a lock-in-amplifier followed by a high-pass filter stage for subtraction of drift and DC offset, and a post-subtraction high gain stage, enables detection of particles and cells as small as 1 μm in diameter, despite using a low-end 8-bit ADC. The lock-in-amplifier and the ADC were set up to receive and transmit data from a Bluetooth module. In order to initiate the system, as well as to transmit all of the data, a user friendly mobile application was developed, and a proof-of-concept trial was run on a blood sample. Applications such as personalized health monitoring require robust device operation and resilience to clogging. It is desirable to avoid using channels comparable in size to the particles being detected thus requiring high levels of sensitivity. Despite using low-end off-the-shelf hardware, our sensing platform was capable of detecting changes in impedance as small as 0.032%, allowing detection of 3 μm diameter particles in a 300 μm wide channel. The sensitivity of our system is comparable to that of a high-end bench-top impedance spectrometer when tested using the same sensors. The novel analog design allowed for an instrument with a footprint of less than 80 cm 2 . The aim of this work is to demonstrate the potential of using microfluidic impedance spectroscopy for low cost health monitoring. We demonstrated the utility of the platform technology towards cell counting, however, our platform is broadly applicable to assaying wide panels of biomarkers including proteins, nucleic acids, and various cell types.

Implementation of a Portable Personal EKG Signal Monitoring System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Tan-Hsu; Chang, Ching-Su; Chen, Yung-Fu; Lee, Cheng

This research develops a portable personal EKG signal monitoring system to help patients monitor their EKG signals instantly to avoid the occurrence of tragedies. This system is built with two main units: signal pro-cessing unit and monitoring and evaluation unit. The first unit consists of EKG signal sensor, signal amplifier, digitalization circuit, and related control circuits. The second unit is a software tool developed on an embedded Linux platform (called CSA). Experimental result indicates that the proposed system has the practical potential for users in health monitoring. It is demonstrated to be more convenient and with greater portability than the conventional PC-based EKG signal monitoring systems. Furthermore, all the application units embedded in the system are built with open source codes, no licensed fee is required for operating systems and authorized applications. Thus, the building cost is much lower than the traditional systems.

Paper-based sample-to-answer molecular diagnostic platform for point-of-care diagnostics.

PubMed

Choi, Jane Ru; Tang, Ruihua; Wang, ShuQi; Wan Abas, Wan Abu Bakar; Pingguan-Murphy, Belinda; Xu, Feng

2015-12-15

Nucleic acid testing (NAT), as a molecular diagnostic technique, including nucleic acid extraction, amplification and detection, plays a fundamental role in medical diagnosis for timely medical treatment. However, current NAT technologies require relatively high-end instrumentation, skilled personnel, and are time-consuming. These drawbacks mean conventional NAT becomes impractical in many resource-limited disease-endemic settings, leading to an urgent need to develop a fast and portable NAT diagnostic tool. Paper-based devices are typically robust, cost-effective and user-friendly, holding a great potential for NAT at the point of care. In view of the escalating demand for the low cost diagnostic devices, we highlight the beneficial use of paper as a platform for NAT, the current state of its development, and the existing challenges preventing its widespread use. We suggest a strategy involving integrating all three steps of NAT into one single paper-based sample-to-answer diagnostic device for rapid medical diagnostics in the near future. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Low-cost/high-efficiency lasers for medical applications in the 14XX-nm regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Callahan, J. J.; McIntyre, E.; Rafferty, C.; Yanushefski, L.; Bean, D. M.

2011-03-01

Laser therapy is becoming an increasingly popular method of treating numerous dermatological conditions. The widespread use of these devices is often limited by the cost and size. Low cost, portable lasers would expand the laser market further into homes, general practitioners, dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and 3rd world countries. There are numerous light devices currently on the market for hair removal and growth, acne reduction, and wrinkles. These devices are varied, from LEDs to intense pulsed light (IPL) to lasers. One particular disease is leishmaniasis, caused by a parasite carried by sand flies, most often occurring in third world countries. While there are drug therapies available, they sometimes require hospitalization for several days and are very expensive. An RF device has been FDA approved for treatment of leishmaniasis, but costs about $20,000 which is too expensive for widespread use. Since the method is heating the lesion, the same affect could be achieved using an infrared laser. Diode lasers have the capability to be produced in mass quantity for low costs, as shown by the ubiquity of diode lasers in the telecom industry and household appliances. Unfortunately, many diode lasers suffer from poor efficiency, particularly in wavelengths for dermatology. Advances are being made to improve wall plug efficiency of lasers to reduce waste heat and increase output power. In this paper, those efforts being made to develop manufacturing partners to lower the cost while increasing the production volume of long wavelength lasers will be discussed along with performance data and clinical results.

A Rapid and Low-Cost PCR Thermal Cycler for Low Resource Settings

PubMed Central

Wong, Grace; Wong, Isaac; Chan, Kamfai; Hsieh, Yicheng; Wong, Season

2015-01-01

Background Many modern molecular diagnostic assays targeting nucleic acids are typically confined to developed countries or to the national reference laboratories of developing-world countries. The ability to make technologies for the rapid diagnosis of infectious diseases broadly available in a portable, low-cost format would mark a revolutionary step forward in global health. Many molecular assays are also developed based on polymerase chain reactions (PCR), which require thermal cyclers that are relatively heavy (>20 pounds) and need continuous electrical power. The temperature ramping speed of most economical thermal cyclers are relatively slow (2 to 3°C/s) so a polymerase chain reaction can take 1 to 2 hours. Most of all, these thermal cyclers are still too expensive ($2k to $4k) for low-resource setting uses. Methodology/Principal Findings In this article, we demonstrate the development of a low-cost and rapid water bath based thermal cycler that does not require active temperature control or continuous power supply during PCR. This unit costs $130 to build using commercial off-the-shelf items. The use of two or three vacuum-insulated stainless-steel Thermos food jars containing heated water (for denaturation and annealing/extension steps) and a layer of oil on top of the water allow for significantly stabilized temperatures for PCR to take place. Using an Arduino-based microcontroller, we automate the “archaic” method of hand-transferring PCR tubes between water baths. Conclusions/Significance We demonstrate that this innovative unit can deliver high speed PCR (17 s per PCR cycle) with the potential to go beyond the 1,522 bp long amplicons tested in this study and can amplify from templates down to at least 20 copies per reaction. The unit also accepts regular PCR tubes and glass capillary tubes. The PCR efficiency of our thermal cycler is not different from other commercial thermal cyclers. When combined with a rapid nucleic acid detection approach, the thermos thermal cycler (TTC) can enable on-site molecular diagnostics in low-resource settings. PMID:26146999

Development of Low Temperature Li-Ion Electrolytes for NASA and DoD Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smart, M.; Ratnakumar, B.; Surampudi, S.; Plichta, E.; Hendrickson, M.; Thompson, R.; Au, G.; Behl, W.

1999-01-01

Both NASA and the U.S. Army have interest in developing secondary energy storage devices with improved low temperature performance to meet the demanding requirements of space missions and man-portable applications.

47 CFR 52.32 - Allocation of the shared costs of long-term number portability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

....21(h), of each regional database, as defined in § 52.21(1), shall recover the shared costs of long-term number portability attributable to that regional database from all telecommunications carriers providing telecommunications service in areas that regional database serves. Pursuant to its duties under...

47 CFR 52.32 - Allocation of the shared costs of long-term number portability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

....21(h), of each regional database, as defined in § 52.21(1), shall recover the shared costs of long-term number portability attributable to that regional database from all telecommunications carriers providing telecommunications service in areas that regional database serves. Pursuant to its duties under...

47 CFR 52.32 - Allocation of the shared costs of long-term number portability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

....21(h), of each regional database, as defined in § 52.21(1), shall recover the shared costs of long-term number portability attributable to that regional database from all telecommunications carriers providing telecommunications service in areas that regional database serves. Pursuant to its duties under...

47 CFR 52.32 - Allocation of the shared costs of long-term number portability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

....21(h), of each regional database, as defined in § 52.21(1), shall recover the shared costs of long-term number portability attributable to that regional database from all telecommunications carriers providing telecommunications service in areas that regional database serves. Pursuant to its duties under...

47 CFR 52.32 - Allocation of the shared costs of long-term number portability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

....21(h), of each regional database, as defined in § 52.21(1), shall recover the shared costs of long-term number portability attributable to that regional database from all telecommunications carriers providing telecommunications service in areas that regional database serves. Pursuant to its duties under...

Integration of electrochemistry in micro-total analysis systems for biochemical assays: recent developments.

PubMed

Xu, Xiaoli; Zhang, Song; Chen, Hui; Kong, Jilie

2009-11-15

Micro-total analysis systems (microTAS) integrate different analytical operations like sample preparation, separation and detection into a single microfabricated device. With the outstanding advantages of low cost, satisfactory analytical efficiency and flexibility in design, highly integrated and miniaturized devices from the concept of microTAS have gained widespread applications, especially in biochemical assays. Electrochemistry is shown to be quite compatible with microanalytical systems for biochemical assays, because of its attractive merits such as simplicity, rapidity, high sensitivity, reduced power consumption, and sample/reagent economy. This review presents recent developments in the integration of electrochemistry in microdevices for biochemical assays. Ingenious microelectrode design and fabrication methods, and versatility of electrochemical techniques are involved. Practical applications of such integrated microsystem in biochemical assays are focused on in situ analysis, point-of-care testing and portable devices. Electrochemical techniques are apparently suited to microsystems, since easy microfabrication of electrochemical elements and a high degree of integration with multi-analytical functions can be achieved at low cost. Such integrated microsystems will play an increasingly important role for analysis of small volume biochemical samples. Work is in progress toward new microdevice design and applications.

Infrared Thermal Imaging System on a Mobile Phone

PubMed Central

Lee, Fu-Feng; Chen, Feng; Liu, Jing

2015-01-01

A novel concept towards pervasively available low-cost infrared thermal imaging system lunched on a mobile phone (MTIS) was proposed and demonstrated in this article. Through digestion on the evolutional development of milestone technologies in the area, it can be found that the portable and low-cost design would become the main stream of thermal imager for civilian purposes. As a representative trial towards this important goal, a MTIS consisting of a thermal infrared module (TIM) and mobile phone with embedded exclusive software (IRAPP) was presented. The basic strategy for the TIM construction is illustrated, including sensor adoption and optical specification. The user-oriented software was developed in the Android environment by considering its popularity and expandability. Computational algorithms with non-uniformity correction and scene-change detection are established to optimize the imaging quality and efficiency of TIM. The performance experiments and analysis indicated that the currently available detective distance for the MTIS is about 29 m. Furthermore, some family-targeted utilization enabled by MTIS was also outlined, such as sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) prevention, etc. This work suggests a ubiquitous way of significantly extending thermal infrared image into rather wide areas especially health care in the coming time. PMID:25942639

Calibration schemes of a field-compatible optical spectroscopic system to quantify neovascular changes in the dysplastic cervix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Vivide Tuan-Chyan; Merisier, Delson; Yu, Bing; Walmer, David K.; Ramanujam, Nirmala

2011-03-01

A significant challenge in detecting cervical pre-cancer in low-resource settings is the lack of effective screening facilities and trained personnel to detect the disease before it is advanced. Light based technologies, particularly quantitative optical spectroscopy, have the potential to provide an effective, low cost, and portable solution for cervical pre-cancer screening in these communities. We have developed and characterized a portable USB-powered optical spectroscopic system to quantify total hemoglobin content, hemoglobin saturation, and reduced scattering coefficient of cervical tissue in vivo. The system consists of a high-power LED as light source, a bifurcated fiber optic assembly, and two USB spectrometers for sample and calibration spectra acquisitions. The system was subsequently tested in Leogane, Haiti, where diffuse reflectance spectra from 33 colposcopically normal sites in 21 patients were acquired. Two different calibration methods, i.e., a post-study diffuse reflectance standard measurement and a real time self-calibration channel were studied. Our results suggest that a self-calibration channel enabled more accurate extraction of scattering contrast through simultaneous real-time correction of intensity drifts in the system. A self-calibration system also minimizes operator bias and required training. Hence, future contact spectroscopy or imaging systems should incorporate a selfcalibration channel to reliably extract scattering contrast.

Simultaneous determination of low-molecular-weight organic acids and chlorinated acid herbicides in environmental water by a portable CE system with contactless conductivity detection.

PubMed

Xu, Yan; Wang, Weilong; Li, Sam Fong Yau

2007-05-01

This report describes a method to simultaneously determine 11 low-molecular-weight (LMW) organic acids and 16 chlorinated acid herbicides within a single run by a portable CE system with contactless conductivity detection (CCD) in a poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)-coated capillary. Under the optimized condition, the LODs of CE-CCD ranged from 0.056 to 0.270 ppm, which were better than for indirect UV (IUV) detection of the 11 LMW organic acids or UV detection of the 16 chlorinated acid herbicides. Combined with an on-line field-amplified sample stacking (FASS) procedure, sensitivity enhancement of 632- to 1078-fold was achieved, with satisfactory reproducibility (RSDs of migration times less than 2.2%, and RSDs of peak areas less than 5.1%). The FASS-CE-CCD method was successfully applied to determine the two groups of acidic pollutants in two kinds of environmental water samples. The portable CE-CCD system shows advantages such as simplicity, cost effectiveness, and miniaturization. Therefore, the method presented in this report has great potential for onsite analysis of various pollutants at the trace level.

A portable high-definition electronic endoscope based on embedded system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Guang; Wang, Liqiang; Xu, Jin

2012-11-01

This paper presents a low power and portable highdefinition (HD) electronic endoscope based on CortexA8 embedded system. A 1/6 inch CMOS image sensor is used to acquire HD images with 1280 *800 pixels. The camera interface of A8 is designed to support images of various sizes and support multiple inputs of video format such as ITUR BT601/ 656 standard. Image rotation (90 degrees clockwise) and image process functions are achieved by CAMIF. The decode engine of the processor plays back or records HD videos at speed of 30 frames per second, builtin HDMI interface transmits high definition images to the external display. Image processing procedures such as demosaicking, color correction and auto white balance are realized on the A8 platform. Other functions are selected through OSD settings. An LCD panel displays the real time images. The snapshot pictures or compressed videos are saved in an SD card or transmited to a computer through USB interface. The size of the camera head is 4×4.8×15 mm with more than 3 meters working distance. The whole endoscope system can be powered by a lithium battery, with the advantages of miniature, low cost and portability.

Development of a low cost and low power consumption system for monitoring CO_{2} soil concentration in volcanic areas.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Awadallah Estévez, Shadia; Moure-García, David; Torres-González, Pedro; Acosta Sánchez, Leopoldo; Domínguez Cerdeña, Itahiza

2017-04-01

Volatiles dissolved in magma are released as gases when pressure or stress conditions change. H2O, CO2, SO2 and H2S are the most abundant gases involved in volcanic processes. Emission rates are related to changes in the volcanic activity. Therefore, in order to predict possible eruptive events, periodic measurements of CO2 concentrations from the soil should be carried out. In the last years, CO2 monitoring has been widespread for many reasons. A direct relationship between changes in volcanic activity and variations in concentration, diffuse flux and isotope ratios of this gas, have been observed prior to some eruptions or unrest processes. All these factors have pointed out the fact that CO2 emission data are crucial in volcanic monitoring programs. In addition, relevant instrumentation development has also taken place: improved accuracy, cost reduction and portability. Considering this, we propose a low cost and a low power consumption system for measuring CO2 concentration in the soil based on Arduino. Through a perforated pick-axe buried at a certain depth, gas samples are periodically taken with the aid of a piston. These samples are injected through a pneumatic circuit in the spectrometer, which measures the CO2 concentration. Simultaneously, the system records the following meteorological parameters: atmospheric pressure, precipitation, relative humidity and air and soil temperature. These parameters are used to correct their possible influence in the CO2 soil concentration. Data are locally stored (SD card) and transmitted via GPRS or WIFI to a data analysis center.

Plant moisture stress: a portable freezing-point meter compared with the psychrometer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cary, J.W.; Fisher, H.D.

A small portable instrument for measuring the freezing-point depression of plant tissue has been developed for field use. The instrument is easy to operate and can be constructed from materials costing less than $100. Moisture stress measurements made with the freezing-point meter on a variety of plants were compared with vapor pressure psychrometer measurements. Variation between duplicates in the freezing point averaged 1.2 bars, but differences between stress measurements made with the psychrometer and freezing-point instrument averaged 2.6 bars. 11 references, 5 figures, 2 tables.

Multiple-Path-Length Optical Absorbance Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2001-01-01

An optical absorbance cell that offers a selection of multiple optical path lengths has been developed as part of a portable spectrometric instrument that measures absorption spectra of small samples of water and that costs less than does a conventional, non-portable laboratory spectrometer. The instrument is intended, more specifically, for use in studying colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM) in seawater, especially in coastal regions. Accurate characterization of CDOM is necessary for building bio-optical mathematical models of seawater. The multiple path lengths of the absorption cell afford a wide range of sensitivity needed for measuring the optical absorbances associated with the wide range of concentrations of CDOM observed in nature. The instrument operates in the wavelength range of 370 to 725 nm. The major subsystems of the instrument (see figure) include a color-balanced light source; the absorption cell; a peristaltic pump; a high-precision, low-noise fiber optic spectrometer; and a laptop or other personal computer. A fiber-optic cable transmits light from the source to the absorption cell. Other optical fibers transmit light from the absorption cell to the spectrometer,

Low-cost mobile phone microscopy with a reversed mobile phone camera lens.

PubMed

Switz, Neil A; D'Ambrosio, Michael V; Fletcher, Daniel A

2014-01-01

The increasing capabilities and ubiquity of mobile phones and their associated digital cameras offer the possibility of extending low-cost, portable diagnostic microscopy to underserved and low-resource areas. However, mobile phone microscopes created by adding magnifying optics to the phone's camera module have been unable to make use of the full image sensor due to the specialized design of the embedded camera lens, exacerbating the tradeoff between resolution and field of view inherent to optical systems. This tradeoff is acutely felt for diagnostic applications, where the speed and cost of image-based diagnosis is related to the area of the sample that can be viewed at sufficient resolution. Here we present a simple and low-cost approach to mobile phone microscopy that uses a reversed mobile phone camera lens added to an intact mobile phone to enable high quality imaging over a significantly larger field of view than standard microscopy. We demonstrate use of the reversed lens mobile phone microscope to identify red and white blood cells in blood smears and soil-transmitted helminth eggs in stool samples.

Low-Cost Mobile Phone Microscopy with a Reversed Mobile Phone Camera Lens

PubMed Central

Fletcher, Daniel A.

2014-01-01

The increasing capabilities and ubiquity of mobile phones and their associated digital cameras offer the possibility of extending low-cost, portable diagnostic microscopy to underserved and low-resource areas. However, mobile phone microscopes created by adding magnifying optics to the phone's camera module have been unable to make use of the full image sensor due to the specialized design of the embedded camera lens, exacerbating the tradeoff between resolution and field of view inherent to optical systems. This tradeoff is acutely felt for diagnostic applications, where the speed and cost of image-based diagnosis is related to the area of the sample that can be viewed at sufficient resolution. Here we present a simple and low-cost approach to mobile phone microscopy that uses a reversed mobile phone camera lens added to an intact mobile phone to enable high quality imaging over a significantly larger field of view than standard microscopy. We demonstrate use of the reversed lens mobile phone microscope to identify red and white blood cells in blood smears and soil-transmitted helminth eggs in stool samples. PMID:24854188

Advances in paper-based sample pretreatment for point-of-care testing.

PubMed

Tang, Rui Hua; Yang, Hui; Choi, Jane Ru; Gong, Yan; Feng, Shang Sheng; Pingguan-Murphy, Belinda; Huang, Qing Sheng; Shi, Jun Ling; Mei, Qi Bing; Xu, Feng

2017-06-01

In recent years, paper-based point-of-care testing (POCT) has been widely used in medical diagnostics, food safety and environmental monitoring. However, a high-cost, time-consuming and equipment-dependent sample pretreatment technique is generally required for raw sample processing, which are impractical for low-resource and disease-endemic areas. Therefore, there is an escalating demand for a cost-effective, simple and portable pretreatment technique, to be coupled with the commonly used paper-based assay (e.g. lateral flow assay) in POCT. In this review, we focus on the importance of using paper as a platform for sample pretreatment. We firstly discuss the beneficial use of paper for sample pretreatment, including sample collection and storage, separation, extraction, and concentration. We highlight the working principle and fabrication of each sample pretreatment device, the existing challenges and the future perspectives for developing paper-based sample pretreatment technique.

3D Printing and Assay Development for Point-of-Care Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jagadeesh, Shreesha

Existing centralized labs do not serve patients adequately in remote areas. To enable universal timely healthcare, there is a need to develop low cost, portable systems that can diagnose multiple disease (Point-of-Care (POC) devices). Future POC diagnostics can be more multi-functional if medical device vendors can develop interoperability standards. This thesis developed the following medical diagnostic modules: Plasma from 25 microl blood was extracted through a filter membrane to demonstrate a 3D printed sample preparation module. Sepsis biomarker, C - reactive protein, was quantified through adsorption on nylon beads to demonstrate bead-based assay suitable for 3D printed disposable cartridge module. Finally, a modular fluorescent detection kit was built using 3D printed parts to detect CD4 cells in a disposable cartridge from ChipCare Corp. Due to the modularity enabled by 3D printing technique, the developed units can be easily adapted to detect other diseases.

Development of a real-time microchip PCR system for portable plant disease diagnosis.

PubMed

Koo, Chiwan; Malapi-Wight, Martha; Kim, Hyun Soo; Cifci, Osman S; Vaughn-Diaz, Vanessa L; Ma, Bo; Kim, Sungman; Abdel-Raziq, Haron; Ong, Kevin; Jo, Young-Ki; Gross, Dennis C; Shim, Won-Bo; Han, Arum

2013-01-01

Rapid and accurate detection of plant pathogens in the field is crucial to prevent the proliferation of infected crops. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process is the most reliable and accepted method for plant pathogen diagnosis, however current conventional PCR machines are not portable and require additional post-processing steps to detect the amplified DNA (amplicon) of pathogens. Real-time PCR can directly quantify the amplicon during the DNA amplification without the need for post processing, thus more suitable for field operations, however still takes time and require large instruments that are costly and not portable. Microchip PCR systems have emerged in the past decade to miniaturize conventional PCR systems and to reduce operation time and cost. Real-time microchip PCR systems have also emerged, but unfortunately all reported portable real-time microchip PCR systems require various auxiliary instruments. Here we present a stand-alone real-time microchip PCR system composed of a PCR reaction chamber microchip with integrated thin-film heater, a compact fluorescence detector to detect amplified DNA, a microcontroller to control the entire thermocycling operation with data acquisition capability, and a battery. The entire system is 25 × 16 × 8 cm(3) in size and 843 g in weight. The disposable microchip requires only 8-µl sample volume and a single PCR run consumes 110 mAh of power. A DNA extraction protocol, notably without the use of liquid nitrogen, chemicals, and other large lab equipment, was developed for field operations. The developed real-time microchip PCR system and the DNA extraction protocol were used to successfully detect six different fungal and bacterial plant pathogens with 100% success rate to a detection limit of 5 ng/8 µl sample.

Development of a Real-Time Microchip PCR System for Portable Plant Disease Diagnosis

PubMed Central

Kim, Hyun Soo; Cifci, Osman S.; Vaughn-Diaz, Vanessa L.; Ma, Bo; Kim, Sungman; Abdel-Raziq, Haron; Ong, Kevin; Jo, Young-Ki; Gross, Dennis C.; Shim, Won-Bo; Han, Arum

2013-01-01

Rapid and accurate detection of plant pathogens in the field is crucial to prevent the proliferation of infected crops. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process is the most reliable and accepted method for plant pathogen diagnosis, however current conventional PCR machines are not portable and require additional post-processing steps to detect the amplified DNA (amplicon) of pathogens. Real-time PCR can directly quantify the amplicon during the DNA amplification without the need for post processing, thus more suitable for field operations, however still takes time and require large instruments that are costly and not portable. Microchip PCR systems have emerged in the past decade to miniaturize conventional PCR systems and to reduce operation time and cost. Real-time microchip PCR systems have also emerged, but unfortunately all reported portable real-time microchip PCR systems require various auxiliary instruments. Here we present a stand-alone real-time microchip PCR system composed of a PCR reaction chamber microchip with integrated thin-film heater, a compact fluorescence detector to detect amplified DNA, a microcontroller to control the entire thermocycling operation with data acquisition capability, and a battery. The entire system is 25×16×8 cm3 in size and 843 g in weight. The disposable microchip requires only 8-µl sample volume and a single PCR run consumes 110 mAh of power. A DNA extraction protocol, notably without the use of liquid nitrogen, chemicals, and other large lab equipment, was developed for field operations. The developed real-time microchip PCR system and the DNA extraction protocol were used to successfully detect six different fungal and bacterial plant pathogens with 100% success rate to a detection limit of 5 ng/8 µl sample. PMID:24349341

Fusion of lens-free microscopy and mobile-phone microscopy images for high-color-accuracy and high-resolution pathology imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yibo; Wu, Yichen; Zhang, Yun; Ozcan, Aydogan

2017-03-01

Digital pathology and telepathology require imaging tools with high-throughput, high-resolution and accurate color reproduction. Lens-free on-chip microscopy based on digital in-line holography is a promising technique towards these needs, as it offers a wide field of view (FOV >20 mm2) and high resolution with a compact, low-cost and portable setup. Color imaging has been previously demonstrated by combining reconstructed images at three discrete wavelengths in the red, green and blue parts of the visible spectrum, i.e., the RGB combination method. However, this RGB combination method is subject to color distortions. To improve the color performance of lens-free microscopy for pathology imaging, here we present a wavelet-based color fusion imaging framework, termed "digital color fusion microscopy" (DCFM), which digitally fuses together a grayscale lens-free microscope image taken at a single wavelength and a low-resolution and low-magnification color-calibrated image taken by a lens-based microscope, which can simply be a mobile phone based cost-effective microscope. We show that the imaging results of an H&E stained breast cancer tissue slide with the DCFM technique come very close to a color-calibrated microscope using a 40x objective lens with 0.75 NA. Quantitative comparison showed 2-fold reduction in the mean color distance using the DCFM method compared to the RGB combination method, while also preserving the high-resolution features of the lens-free microscope. Due to the cost-effective and field-portable nature of both lens-free and mobile-phone microscopy techniques, their combination through the DCFM framework could be useful for digital pathology and telepathology applications, in low-resource and point-of-care settings.

Portable paper-based device for quantitative colorimetric assays relying on light reflectance principle.

PubMed

Li, Bowei; Fu, Longwen; Zhang, Wei; Feng, Weiwei; Chen, Lingxin

2014-04-01

This paper presents a novel paper-based analytical device based on the colorimetric paper assays through its light reflectance. The device is portable, low cost (<20 dollars), and lightweight (only 176 g) that is available to assess the cost-effectiveness and appropriateness of the original health care or on-site detection information. Based on the light reflectance principle, the signal can be obtained directly, stably and user-friendly in our device. We demonstrated the utility and broad applicability of this technique with measurements of different biological and pollution target samples (BSA, glucose, Fe, and nitrite). Moreover, the real samples of Fe (II) and nitrite in the local tap water were successfully analyzed, and compared with the standard UV absorption method, the quantitative results showed good performance, reproducibility, and reliability. This device could provide quantitative information very conveniently and show great potential to broad fields of resource-limited analysis, medical diagnostics, and on-site environmental detection. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Simple and Sensitive Paper-Based Device Coupling Electrochemical Sample Pretreatment and Colorimetric Detection.

PubMed

Silva, Thalita G; de Araujo, William R; Muñoz, Rodrigo A A; Richter, Eduardo M; Santana, Mário H P; Coltro, Wendell K T; Paixão, Thiago R L C

2016-05-17

We report the development of a simple, portable, low-cost, high-throughput visual colorimetric paper-based analytical device for the detection of procaine in seized cocaine samples. The interference of most common cutting agents found in cocaine samples was verified, and a novel electrochemical approach was used for sample pretreatment in order to increase the selectivity. Under the optimized experimental conditions, a linear analytical curve was obtained for procaine concentrations ranging from 5 to 60 μmol L(-1), with a detection limit of 0.9 μmol L(-1). The accuracy of the proposed method was evaluated using seized cocaine samples and an addition and recovery protocol.

Design and implementation of an electrocardiographical signal acquisition and digital processing system orientated to the detection of paroxysmal arrhythmias

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iriart Braceli, Agustín; Exequiel Morani, Jorge

2011-12-01

This article describes the design, technical aspects and implementation of a device capable of acquiring electrocardiograph signals; visualize them in real time over a graphic liquid crystal display (GLCD), and the storage of these ECG registers on a SD memory card. It also details a noise suppression algorithm using the Wavelet Transform. This system was specially developed to cover some bankruptcy that presents actual Holters or ECG regarding the detection of paroxysmal arrhythmias. The contribution of this work is settled on its portability and low production cost. The filtering method used provides an ECG signal without any significant noise and appropriate to the diagnosis of cardiac pathologies.

A portable fNIRS system with eight channels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Si, Juanning; Zhao, Ruirui; Zhang, Yujin; Zuo, Nianming; Zhang, Xin; Jiang, Tianzi

2015-03-01

Abundant study on the hemodynamic response of a brain have brought quite a few advances in technologies of measuring it. The most benefitted is the functional near infrared spectroscope (fNIRS). A variety of devices have been developed for different applications. Because portable fNIRS systems were more competent to measure responses either of special subjects or in natural environment, several kinds of portable fNIRS systems have been reported. However, they all required a computer for receiving data. The extra computer increases the cost of a fNIRS system. What's more noticeable is the space required to locate the computer even for a portable system. It will discount the portability of the fNIRS system. So we designed a self-contained eight channel fNIRS system, which does not demand a computer to receive data and display data in a monitor. Instead, the system is centered by an ARM core CPU, which takes charge in organizing data and saving data, and then displays data on a touch screen. The system has also been validated by experiments on phantoms and on subjects in tasks.

Development of a bacteriophage displayed peptide library and biosensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chin, Robert C.; Salazar, Noe; Mayo, Michael W.; Villavicencio, Victor I.; Taylor, Richard B.; Chambers, James P.; Valdes, James J.

1996-04-01

A miniaturized, handheld biosensor for identification of hazardous biowarfare agents with high specificity is being developed. An innovative biological recognition system based on bacteriophage displayed peptide receptors will be utilized in conjunction with the miniature biosensor technology being developed. A bacteriophage library has been constructed to provide the artificial receptors. The library can contain millions of bacteriophage with randomly displayed peptide sequences in the phage outer protein coat which act as binding sites for the agents of interest. This library will be used to 'bio-pan' for phages that bind to a number of toxins and infectious agents and can, thus, provide an endless supply of low cost, reliable, specific, and stable artificial receptors. The biosensor instrument will utilize evanescent wave, planar waveguide, far-red dyes, diode laser and miniature circuit technologies for performance and portability.

An Open-source Low-cost Portable Apparatus for Soil Fauna Sampling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Daliakopoulos, Ioannis; Wagner, Karl; Grillakis, Manolis; Apostolakis, Antonios; Tsanis, Ioannis

2016-04-01

A low-cost apparatus for the extraction of living soil animals from soil or litter samples is presented. The main unit consists of a modular bank system with three horizontal shelves designed to accommodate lamps and soil samples over funnel and jar systems for animal collection, thus serving as a practical and standardized modification of the well-documented Berlese-Tullgren funnel. Shelves are vertically adjustable, sliding on 5 mm threaded rods and securing with wing nuts for easy assembly/disassembly and stability. Shelf material is 4 mm plywood (or similar), laser-cut (or similar) to accommodate lamp sockets, tubes and funnels at respective levels. Soil samples are inserted in 10 cm tubes from standard Ø50 mm PVC piping that can also function as direct collection corers for softer soils. Tubes are fitted in the tube bank shelf, each directly under a 25 W reflector lamp and over a funnel and jar system. Lamps are located 25 mm over the tubes' top creating a relatively constant 10 oC temperature gradient that drives soil animals away from heat and light, and towards the bottom end of the tube which is fitted with a suitable fabric mesh. Standard 106 ml panelled jars, filled with a safe-to-handle preservative (e.g. propylene glycol) to the lower end of the funnel fitted in them, trap and preserve soil organisms until identification. The apparatus offers flat-pack portability and scalability using low-cost standard material. Design specifications and Drawing eXchange Format (dxf) files for apparatus reproduction are provided.

Resistance Training using Low Cost Elastic Tubing is Equally Effective to Conventional Weight Machines in Middle-Aged to Older Healthy Adults: A Quasi-Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Lima, Fabiano F; Camillo, Carlos A; Gobbo, Luis A; Trevisan, Iara B; Nascimento, Wesley B B M; Silva, Bruna S A; Lima, Manoel C S; Ramos, Dionei; Ramos, Ercy M C

2018-03-01

The objectives of the study were to compare the effects of resistance training using either a low cost and portable elastic tubing or conventional weight machines on muscle force, functional exercise capacity, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in middle-aged to older healthy adults. In this clinical trial twenty-nine middle-aged to older healthy adults were randomly assigned to one of the three groups a priori defined: resistance training with elastic tubing (ETG; n = 10), conventional resistance training (weight machines) (CTG; n = 9) and control group (CG, n = 10). Both ETG and CTG followed a 12-week resistance training (3x/week - upper and lower limbs). Muscle force, functional exercise capacity and HRQOL were evaluated at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks. CG underwent the three evaluations with no formal intervention or activity counseling provided. ETG and CTG increased similarly and significantly muscle force (Δ16-44% in ETG and Δ25-46% in CTG, p < 0.05 for both), functional exercise capacity (ETG Δ4 ± 4% and CTG Δ6±8%; p < 0.05 for both). Improvement on "pain" domain of HRQOL could only be observed in the CTG (Δ21 ± 26% p = 0.037). CG showed no statistical improvement in any of the variables investigated. Resistance training using elastic tubing (a low cost and portable tool) and conventional resistance training using weight machines promoted similar positive effects on peripheral muscle force and functional exercise capacity in middle-aged to older healthy adults.

Design, Development, and Characterization of an Inexpensive Portable Cyclic Voltammeter

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mott, Jenna R.; Munson, Paul J.; Kreuter, Rodney A.; Chohan, Balwant S.; Sykes, Danny G.

2014-01-01

The teaching of instrumental analysis for many small colleges and high schools continues to be stymied by high-cost, complicated maintenance, high power requirements, and often the sheer bulk of the instrumentation. Such issues have led us to develop inexpensive instruments as part of a SMILE initiative (small, mobile instruments for laboratory…

System Control Applications of Low-Power Radio Frequency Devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van Rensburg, Roger

2017-09-01

This paper conceptualizes a low-power wireless sensor network design for application employment to reduce theft of portable computer devices used in educational institutions today. The aim of this study is to design and develop a reliable and robust wireless network that can eradicate accessibility of a device’s human interface. An embedded system supplied by an energy harvesting source, installed on the portable computer device, may represent one of multiple slave nodes which request regular updates from a standalone master station. A portable computer device which is operated in an undesignated area or in a field perimeter where master to slave communication is restricted, indicating a possible theft scenario, will initiate a shutdown of its operating system and render the device unusable. Consequently, an algorithm in the device firmware may ensure the necessary steps are executed to track the device, irrespective whether the device is enabled. Design outcomes thus far indicate that a wireless network using low-power embedded hardware, is feasible for anti-theft applications. By incorporating one of the latest Bluetooth low-energy, ANT+, ZigBee or Thread wireless technologies, an anti-theft system may be implemented that has the potential to reduce major portable computer device theft in institutions of digitized learning.

Overview of ENEA's Projects on lithium batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alessandrini, F.; Conte, M.; Passerini, S.; Prosini, P. P.

The increasing need of high performance batteries in various small-scale and large-scale applications (portable electronics, notebooks, palmtops, cellular phones, electric vehicles, UPS, load levelling) in Italy is motivating the R&D efforts of various public and private organizations. Research of lithium batteries in Italy goes back to the beginning of the technological development of primary and secondary lithium systems with national know-how spread in various academic and public institutions with a few private stakeholders. In the field of lithium polymer batteries, ENEA has been dedicating significant efforts in almost two decades to promote and carry out basic R&D and pre-industrial development projects. In recent years, three major national projects have been performed and coordinated by ENEA in co-operation with some universities, governmental research organizations and industry. In these projects novel polymer electrolytes with ceramic additives, low cost manganese oxide-based composite cathodes, environmentally friendly process for polymer electrolyte, fabrication processes of components and cells have been investigated and developed in order to fulfill long-term needs of cost-effective and highly performant lithium polymer batteries.

Design and Development of nEMoS, an All-in-One, Low-Cost, Web-Connected and 3D-Printed Device for Environmental Analysis

PubMed Central

Salamone, Francesco; Belussi, Lorenzo; Danza, Ludovico; Ghellere, Matteo; Meroni, Italo

2015-01-01

The Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) refers to the quality of the environment in relation to the health and well-being of the occupants. It is a holistic concept, which considers several categories, each related to a specific environmental parameter. This article describes a low-cost and open-source hardware architecture able to detect the indoor variables necessary for the IEQ calculation as an alternative to the traditional hardware used for this purpose. The system consists of some sensors and an Arduino board. One of the key strengths of Arduino is the possibility it affords of loading the script into the board’s memory and letting it run without interfacing with computers, thus granting complete independence, portability and accuracy. Recent works have demonstrated that the cost of scientific equipment can be reduced by applying open-source principles to their design using a combination of the Arduino platform and a 3D printer. The evolution of the 3D printer has provided a new means of open design capable of accelerating self-directed development. The proposed nano Environmental Monitoring System (nEMoS) instrument is shown to have good reliability and it provides the foundation for a more critical approach to the use of professional sensors as well as for conceiving new scenarios and potential applications. PMID:26053749

Fabrication and performance analysis of a low cost parabolic type solar cooker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akter, Farhana Nasrin; Islam, Muhammed Kamrul; Begum, Nurun Nahar

2017-06-01

Developing countries depend mostly on natural fuel sources such as wood fuel, fossil fuel (kerosene and liquid petroleum gas) etc. for cooking purpose. However, these are expensive and also lead to the threads like deforestation as well as environmental degradation. An alternative renewable energy source like solar energy can contribute a solution towards the adverse crisis of fuel consumption along with environmental pollution of developing countries. Therefore, this study aims to design and fabricate a cost effective solar cooker for domestic purposes as well as performance analysis in order to evaluate its effectiveness. The cooker has been made of cardboard, tin, aluminum foil (polished and non-polished) and glass. Simple construction with reflectors surrounded by tin was fabricated with 1000ml load of water in the cooker hanging by a stand and observed that the best comparative performance in areas with longest durations of clear sky greatest direct ray falling on the collector cookers under moderate cloudy conditions. By applying better techniques for construction of solar cooker with low maintenance through testing and graphing the result, increasing of temperature with minimum cost for cooking purpose was outcome with portable cooker. In this analysis, analytical and experimental values varied due to fickle weather, however, maximum temperature variation was found 36 degree Celsius with efficiency 8.8% in the cooker made of aluminum foil (non-polished).

Design and development of nEMoS, an all-in-one, low-cost, web-connected and 3D-printed device for environmental analysis.

PubMed

Salamone, Francesco; Belussi, Lorenzo; Danza, Ludovico; Ghellere, Matteo; Meroni, Italo

2015-06-04

The Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) refers to the quality of the environment in relation to the health and well-being of the occupants. It is a holistic concept, which considers several categories, each related to a specific environmental parameter. This article describes a low-cost and open-source hardware architecture able to detect the indoor variables necessary for the IEQ calculation as an alternative to the traditional hardware used for this purpose. The system consists of some sensors and an Arduino board. One of the key strengths of Arduino is the possibility it affords of loading the script into the board's memory and letting it run without interfacing with computers, thus granting complete independence, portability and accuracy. Recent works have demonstrated that the cost of scientific equipment can be reduced by applying open-source principles to their design using a combination of the Arduino platform and a 3D printer. The evolution of the 3D printer has provided a new means of open design capable of accelerating self-directed development. The proposed nano Environmental Monitoring System (nEMoS) instrument is shown to have good reliability and it provides the foundation for a more critical approach to the use of professional sensors as well as for conceiving new scenarios and potential applications.

A low-cost, portable, micro-controlled device for multi-channel LED visual stimulation.

PubMed

Pinto, Marcos Antonio da Silva; de Souza, John Kennedy Schettino; Baron, Jerome; Tierra-Criollo, Carlos Julio

2011-04-15

Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are extensively used as light sources to investigate visual and visually related function and dysfunction. Here, we describe the design of a compact, low-cost, stand-alone LED-based system that enables the configuration, storage and presentation of elaborate visual stimulation paradigms. The core functionality of this system is provided by a microcontroller whose ultra-low power consumption makes it well suited for long lasting battery applications. The effective use of hardware resources is managed by multi-layered architecture software that provides an intuitive and user-friendly interface. In the configuration mode, different stimulation sequences can be created and memorized for ten channels, independently. LED-driving current output can be set either as continuous or pulse modulated, up to 500 Hz, by duty cycle adjustments. In run mode, multiple-channel stimulus sequences are automatically applied according to the pre-programmed protocol. Steady state visual evoked potentials were successfully recorded in five subjects with no visible electromagnetic interferences from the stimulator, demonstrating the efficacy of combining our prototyped equipment with electrophysiological techniques. Finally, we discuss a number of possible improvements for future development of our project. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Classroom Network Technology as a Support for Systemic Mathematics Reform: The Effects of TI MathForward on Student Achievement in a Large, Diverse District

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Penuel, William; Singleton, Corinne; Roschelle, Jeremy

2011-01-01

Low-cost, portable classroom network technologies have shown great promise in recent years for improving teaching and learning in mathematics. This paper explores the impacts on student learning in mathematics when a program to introduce network technologies into mathematics classrooms is integrated into a systemic reform initiative at the…

Design of a Novel Low Cost Point of Care Tampon (POCkeT) Colposcope for Use in Resource Limited Settings

PubMed Central

Lam, Christopher T.; Krieger, Marlee S.; Gallagher, Jennifer E.; Asma, Betsy; Muasher, Lisa C.; Schmitt, John W.; Ramanujam, Nimmi

2015-01-01

Introduction Current guidelines by WHO for cervical cancer screening in low- and middle-income countries involves visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) of the cervix, followed by treatment during the same visit or a subsequent visit with cryotherapy if a suspicious lesion is found. Implementation of these guidelines is hampered by a lack of: trained health workers, reliable technology, and access to screening facilities. A low cost ultra-portable Point of Care Tampon based digital colposcope (POCkeT Colposcope) for use at the community level setting, which has the unique form factor of a tampon, can be inserted into the vagina to capture images of the cervix, which are on par with that of a state of the art colposcope, at a fraction of the cost. A repository of images to be compiled that can be used to empower front line workers to become more effective through virtual dynamic training. By task shifting to the community setting, this technology could potentially provide significantly greater cervical screening access to where the most vulnerable women live. The POCkeT Colposcope’s concentric LED ring provides comparable white and green field illumination at a fraction of the electrical power required in commercial colposcopes. Evaluation with standard optical imaging targets to assess the POCkeT Colposcope against the state of the art digital colposcope and other VIAM technologies. Results Our POCkeT Colposcope has comparable resolving power, color reproduction accuracy, minimal lens distortion, and illumination when compared to commercially available colposcopes. In vitro and pilot in vivo imaging results are promising with our POCkeT Colposcope capturing comparable quality images to commercial systems. Conclusion The POCkeT Colposcope is capable of capturing images suitable for cervical lesion analysis. Our portable low cost system could potentially increase access to cervical cancer screening in limited resource settings through task shifting to community health workers. PMID:26332673

Portable Fluorescence Imaging System for Hypersonic Flow Facilities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilkes, J. A.; Alderfer, D. W.; Jones, S. B.; Danehy, P. M.

2003-01-01

A portable fluorescence imaging system has been developed for use in NASA Langley s hypersonic wind tunnels. The system has been applied to a small-scale free jet flow. Two-dimensional images were taken of the flow out of a nozzle into a low-pressure test section using the portable planar laser-induced fluorescence system. Images were taken from the center of the jet at various test section pressures, showing the formation of a barrel shock at low pressures, transitioning to a turbulent jet at high pressures. A spanwise scan through the jet at constant pressure reveals the three-dimensional structure of the flow. Future capabilities of the system for making measurements in large-scale hypersonic wind tunnel facilities are discussed.

Novel use of the Nintendo Wii board as a measure of reaction time: a study of reproducibility in older and younger adults.

PubMed

Jorgensen, Martin Gronbech; Paramanathan, Sentha; Ryg, Jesper; Masud, Tahir; Andersen, Stig

2015-07-10

Reaction time (RT) has been associated with falls in older adults, but is not routinely tested in clinical practice. A simple, portable, inexpensive and reliable method for measuring RT is desirable for clinical settings. We therefore developed a custom software, which utilizes the portable and low-cost standard Nintendo Wii board (NWB) to record RT. The aims in the study were to (1) explore if the test could differentiate old and young adults, and (2) to study learning effects between test-sessions, and (3) to examine reproducibility. A young (n = 25, age 20-35 years, mean BMI of 22.6) and an old (n = 25, age ≥65 years, mean BMI of 26.3) study-population were enrolled in this within- and between-day reproducibility study. A standard NWB was used along with the custom software to obtain RT from participants in milliseconds. A mixed effect model was initially used to explore systematic differences associated with age, and test-session. Reproducibility was then expressed by Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC), Coefficient of Variance (CV), and Typical Error (TE). The RT tests was able to differentiate the old group from the young group in both the upper extremity test (p < 0.001; -170.7 ms (95%CI -209.4; -132.0)) and the lower extremity test (p < 0.001; -224.3 ms (95%CI -274.6; -173.9)). Moreover, the mixed effect model showed no significant learning effect between sessions with exception of the lower extremity test between session one and three for the young group (-35,5 ms; 4.6%; p = 0.02). A good within- and between-day reproducibility (ICC: 0.76-0.87; CV: 8.5-12.9; TE: 45.7-95.1 ms) was achieved for both the upper and lower extremity test with the fastest of three trials in both groups. A low-cost and portable reaction test utilizing a standard Nintendo wii board showed good reproducibility, no or little systematic learning effects across test-sessions, and could differentiate between young and older adults in both upper and lower extremity tests.

Review of Portable and Low-Cost Sensors for the Ambient Air Monitoring of Benzene and Other Volatile Organic Compounds

PubMed Central

Kok, Gertjan; Persijn, Stefan; Sauerwald, Tilman

2017-01-01

This article presents a literature review of sensors for the monitoring of benzene in ambient air and other volatile organic compounds. Combined with information provided by stakeholders, manufacturers and literature, the review considers commercially available sensors, including PID-based sensors, semiconductor (resistive gas sensors) and portable on-line measuring devices as for example sensor arrays. The bibliographic collection includes the following topics: sensor description, field of application at fixed sites, indoor and ambient air monitoring, range of concentration levels and limit of detection in air, model descriptions of the phenomena involved in the sensor detection process, gaseous interference selectivity of sensors in complex VOC matrix, validation data in lab experiments and under field conditions. PMID:28657595

Review of Portable and Low-Cost Sensors for the Ambient Air Monitoring of Benzene and Other Volatile Organic Compounds.

PubMed

Spinelle, Laurent; Gerboles, Michel; Kok, Gertjan; Persijn, Stefan; Sauerwald, Tilman

2017-06-28

This article presents a literature review of sensors for the monitoring of benzene in ambient air and other volatile organic compounds. Combined with information provided by stakeholders, manufacturers and literature, the review considers commercially available sensors, including PID-based sensors, semiconductor (resistive gas sensors) and portable on-line measuring devices as for example sensor arrays. The bibliographic collection includes the following topics: sensor description, field of application at fixed sites, indoor and ambient air monitoring, range of concentration levels and limit of detection in air, model descriptions of the phenomena involved in the sensor detection process, gaseous interference selectivity of sensors in complex VOC matrix, validation data in lab experiments and under field conditions.

Lensfree On-Chip Microscopy and Tomography for Bio-Medical Applications

PubMed Central

Isikman, Serhan O.; Bishara, Waheb; Mudanyali, Onur; Sencan, Ikbal; Su, Ting-Wei; Tseng, Derek; Yaglidere, Oguzhan; Sikora, Uzair; Ozcan, Aydogan

2012-01-01

Lensfree on-chip holographic microscopy is an emerging technique that offers imaging of biological specimens over a large field-of-view without using any lenses or bulky optical components. Lending itself to a compact, cost-effective and mechanically robust architecture, lensfree on-chip holographic microscopy can offer an alternative toolset addressing some of the emerging needs of microscopic analysis and diagnostics in low-resource settings, especially for telemedicine applications. In this review, we summarize the latest achievements in lensfree optical microscopy based on partially coherent on-chip holography, including portable telemedicine microscopy, cell-phone based microscopy and field-portable optical tomographic microscopy. We also discuss some of the future directions for telemedicine microscopy and its prospects to help combat various global health challenges. PMID:24478572

Improving Short Term Instability for Quantitative Analyses with Portable Electronic Noses

PubMed Central

Macías, Miguel Macías; Agudo, J. Enrique; Manso, Antonio García; Orellana, Carlos Javier García; Velasco, Horacio Manuel González; Caballero, Ramón Gallardo

2014-01-01

One of the main problems when working with electronic noses is the lack of reproducibility or repeatability of the sensor response, so that, if this problem is not properly considered, electronic noses can be useless, especially for quantitative analyses. On the other hand, irreproducibility is increased with portable and low cost electronic noses where laboratory equipment like gas zero generators cannot be used. In this work, we study the reproducibility of two portable electronic noses, the PEN3 (commercial) and CAPINose (a proprietary design) by using synthetic wine samples. We show that in both cases short term instability associated to the sensors' response to the same sample and under the same conditions represents a major problem and we propose an internal normalization technique that, in both cases, reduces the variability of the sensors' response. Finally, we show that the normalization proposed seems to be more effective in the CAPINose case, reducing, for example, the variability associated to the TGS2602 sensor from 12.19% to 2.2%. PMID:24932869

Fabrication of a microfluidic Ag/AgCl reference electrode and its application for portable and disposable electrochemical microchips.

PubMed

Zhou, Jianhua; Ren, Kangning; Zheng, Yizhe; Su, Jing; Zhao, Yihua; Ryan, Declan; Wu, Hongkai

2010-09-01

This report describes a convenient method for the fabrication of a miniaturized, reliable Ag/AgCl reference electrode with nanofluidic channels acting as a salt bridge that can be easily integrated into microfluidic chips. The Ag/AgCl reference electrode shows high stability with millivolt variations. We demonstrated the application of this reference electrode in a portable microfluidic chip that is connected to a USB-port microelectrochemical station and to a computer for data collection and analysis. The low fabrication cost of the chip with the potential for mass production makes it disposable and an excellent candidate for real-world analysis and measurement. We used the chip to quantitatively analyze the concentrations of heavy metal ions (Cd(2+) and Pb(2+)) in sea water. We believe that the Ag/AgCl reference microelectrode and the portable electrochemical system will be of interest to people in microfluidics, environmental science, clinical diagnostics, and food research.

Combined Dielectrophoresis and Impedance Systems for Bacteria Analysis in Microfluidic On-Chip Platforms

PubMed Central

Páez-Avilés, Cristina; Juanola-Feliu, Esteve; Punter-Villagrasa, Jaime; del Moral Zamora, Beatriz; Homs-Corbera, Antoni; Colomer-Farrarons, Jordi; Miribel-Català, Pere Lluís; Samitier, Josep

2016-01-01

Bacteria concentration and detection is time-consuming in regular microbiology procedures aimed to facilitate the detection and analysis of these cells at very low concentrations. Traditional methods are effective but often require several days to complete. This scenario results in low bioanalytical and diagnostic methodologies with associated increased costs and complexity. In recent years, the exploitation of the intrinsic electrical properties of cells has emerged as an appealing alternative approach for concentrating and detecting bacteria. The combination of dielectrophoresis (DEP) and impedance analysis (IA) in microfluidic on-chip platforms could be key to develop rapid, accurate, portable, simple-to-use and cost-effective microfluidic devices with a promising impact in medicine, public health, agricultural, food control and environmental areas. The present document reviews recent DEP and IA combined approaches and the latest relevant improvements focusing on bacteria concentration and detection, including selectivity, sensitivity, detection time, and conductivity variation enhancements. Furthermore, this review analyses future trends and challenges which need to be addressed in order to successfully commercialize these platforms resulting in an adequate social return of public-funded investments. PMID:27649201

A Novel Intracranial Pressure Readout Circuit for Passive Wireless LC Sensor.

PubMed

Wang, Fa; Zhang, Xuan; Shokoueinejad, Mehdi; Iskandar, Bermans J; Medow, Joshua E; Webster, John G

2017-10-01

We present a wide frequency range, low cost, wireless intracranial pressure monitoring system, which includes an implantable passive sensor and an external reader. The passive sensor consists of two spiral coils and transduces the pressure change to a resonant frequency shift. The external portable reader reads out the sensor's resonant frequency over a wide frequency range (35 MHz-2.7 GHz). We propose a novel circuit topology, which tracks the system's impedance and phase change at a high frequency with low-cost components. This circuit is very simple and reliable. A prototype has been developed, and measurement results demonstrate that the device achieves a suitable measurement distance (>2 cm), sufficient sample frequency (>6 Hz), fine resolution, and good measurement accuracy for medical practice. Responsivity of this prototype is 0.92 MHz/mmHg and resolution is 0.028 mmHg. COMSOL specific absorption rate simulation proves that this system is safe. Considerations to improve the device performance have been discussed, which include the size of antenna, the power radiation, the Analog-to-digital converter (ADC) choice, and the signal processing algorithm.

A flow-batch analyzer with piston propulsion applied to automatic preparation of calibration solutions for Mn determination in mineral waters by ET AAS.

PubMed

Almeida, Luciano F; Vale, Maria G R; Dessuy, Morgana B; Silva, Márcia M; Lima, Renato S; Santos, Vagner B; Diniz, Paulo H D; Araújo, Mário C U

2007-10-31

The increasing development of miniaturized flow systems and the continuous monitoring of chemical processes require dramatically simplified and cheap flow schemes and instrumentation with large potential for miniaturization and consequent portability. For these purposes, the development of systems based on flow and batch technologies may be a good alternative. Flow-batch analyzers (FBA) have been successfully applied to implement analytical procedures, such as: titrations, sample pre-treatment, analyte addition and screening analysis. In spite of its favourable characteristics, the previously proposed FBA uses peristaltic pumps to propel the fluids and this kind of propulsion presents high cost and large dimension, making unfeasible its miniaturization and portability. To overcome these drawbacks, a low cost, robust, compact and non-propelled by peristaltic pump FBA is proposed. It makes use of a lab-made piston coupled to a mixing chamber and a step motor controlled by a microcomputer. The piston-propelled FBA (PFBA) was applied for automatic preparation of calibration solutions for manganese determination in mineral waters by electrothermal atomic-absorption spectrometry (ET AAS). Comparing the results obtained with two sets of calibration curves (five by manual and five by PFBA preparations), no significant statistical differences at a 95% confidence level were observed by applying the paired t-test. The standard deviation of manual and PFBA procedures were always smaller than 0.2 and 0.1mugL(-1), respectively. By using PFBA it was possible to prepare about 80 calibration solutions per hour.

Lab-on-a-disc agglutination assay for protein detection by optomagnetic readout and optical imaging using nano- and micro-sized magnetic beads.

PubMed

Uddin, Rokon; Burger, Robert; Donolato, Marco; Fock, Jeppe; Creagh, Michael; Hansen, Mikkel Fougt; Boisen, Anja

2016-11-15

We present a biosensing platform for the detection of proteins based on agglutination of aptamer coated magnetic nano- or microbeads. The assay, from sample to answer, is integrated on an automated, low-cost microfluidic disc platform. This ensures fast and reliable results due to a minimum of manual steps involved. The detection of the target protein was achieved in two ways: (1) optomagnetic readout using magnetic nanobeads (MNBs); (2) optical imaging using magnetic microbeads (MMBs). The optomagnetic readout of agglutination is based on optical measurement of the dynamics of MNB aggregates whereas the imaging method is based on direct visualization and quantification of the average size of MMB aggregates. By enhancing magnetic particle agglutination via application of strong magnetic field pulses, we obtained identical limits of detection of 25pM with the same sample-to-answer time (15min 30s) using the two differently sized beads for the two detection methods. In both cases a sample volume of only 10µl is required. The demonstrated automation, low sample-to-answer time and portability of both detection instruments as well as integration of the assay on a low-cost disc are important steps for the implementation of these as portable tools in an out-of-lab setting. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Sweat Sodium Concentration: Inter-Unit Variability of a Low Cost, Portable, and Battery Operated Sodium Analyzer.

PubMed

Goulet, Eric D B; Baker, Lindsay B

2017-12-01

The B-722 Laqua Twin is a low cost, portable, and battery operated sodium analyzer, which can be used for the assessment of sweat sodium concentration. The Laqua Twin is reliable and provides a degree of accuracy similar to more expensive analyzers; however, its interunit measurement error remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to compare the sodium concentration values of 70 sweat samples measured using three different Laqua Twin units. Mean absolute errors, random errors and constant errors among the different Laqua Twins ranged respectively between 1.7 mmol/L to 3.5 mmol/L, 2.5 mmol/L to 3.7 mmol/L and -0.6 mmol/L to 3.9 mmol/L. Proportional errors among Laqua Twins were all < 2%. Based on a within-subject biological variability in sweat sodium concentration of ± 12%, the maximal allowable imprecision among instruments was considered to be £ 6%. In that respect, the within (2.9%), between (4.5%), and total (5.4%) measurement error coefficient of variations were all < 6%. For a given sweat sodium concentration value, the largest observed difference in mean and lower and upper bound error of measurements among instruments were, respectively, 4.7 mmol/L, 2.3 mmol/L, and 7.0 mmol/L. In conclusion, our findings show that the interunit measurement error of the B-722 Laqua Twin is low and methodologically acceptable.

Development of fast neutron radiography system based on portable neutron generator

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yi, Chia Jia, E-mail: gei-i-kani@hotmail.com; Nilsuwankosit, Sunchai, E-mail: sunchai.n@chula.ac.th

Due to the high installation cost, the safety concern and the immobility of the research reactors, the neutron radiography system based on portable neutron generator is proposed. Since the neutrons generated from a portable neutron generator are mostly the fast neutrons, the system is emphasized on using the fast neutrons for the purpose of conducting the radiography. In order to suppress the influence of X-ray produced by the neutron generator, a combination of a shielding material sandwiched between two identical imaging plates is used. A binary XOR operation is then applied for combining the information from the imaging plates. Themore » raw images obtained confirm that the X-ray really has a large effect and that XOR operation can help enhance the effect of the neutrons.« less

[Development of a medical equipment support information system based on PDF portable document].

PubMed

Cheng, Jiangbo; Wang, Weidong

2010-07-01

According to the organizational structure and management system of the hospital medical engineering support, integrate medical engineering support workflow to ensure the medical engineering data effectively, accurately and comprehensively collected and kept in electronic archives. Analyse workflow of the medical, equipment support work and record all work processes by the portable electronic document. Using XML middleware technology and SQL Server database, complete process management, data calculation, submission, storage and other functions. The practical application shows that the medical equipment support information system optimizes the existing work process, standardized and digital, automatic and efficient orderly and controllable. The medical equipment support information system based on portable electronic document can effectively optimize and improve hospital medical engineering support work, improve performance, reduce costs, and provide full and accurate digital data

A hand-powered, portable, low-cost centrifuge for diagnosing anemia in low-resource settings.

PubMed

Brown, Jocelyn; Theis, Lauren; Kerr, Lila; Zakhidova, Nazima; O'Connor, Kelly; Uthman, Margaret; Oden, Z Maria; Richards-Kortum, Rebecca

2011-08-01

This report describes the development of a hand-powered centrifuge to determine hematocrit values in low-resource settings. A hand-powered centrifuge was constructed by using a salad spinner. Hematocrit values were measured by using the hand-powered device, and results were compared with those of a benchtop centrifuge. The packed cell volume (PCV) measured with the hand-powered device correlated linearly with results obtained with a benchtop centrifuge (r = 0.986, P < 0.001). The PCVs measured with the hand-powered centrifuge were consistently 1.14 times higher than those measured with the benchtop system. The 14% increase in PCV measured with the hand-powered centrifuge is caused by increased plasma trapped in the cell column. The reader card was adjusted to compensate for trapped plasma. A hand-powered centrifuge and calibrated reader card can be constructed for U.S. $35 and can accurately determine hematocrit values. It is suitable for use in low-resource settings because it is mechanically-powered, inexpensive, and accurate.

A Hand-Powered, Portable, Low-Cost Centrifuge for Diagnosing Anemia in Low-Resource Settings

PubMed Central

Brown, Jocelyn; Theis, Lauren; Kerr, Lila; Zakhidova, Nazima; O'Connor, Kelly; Uthman, Margaret; Oden, Z. Maria; Richards-Kortum, Rebecca

2011-01-01

This report describes the development of a hand-powered centrifuge to determine hematocrit values in low-resource settings. A hand-powered centrifuge was constructed by using a salad spinner. Hematocrit values were measured by using the hand-powered device, and results were compared with those of a benchtop centrifuge. The packed cell volume (PCV) measured with the hand-powered device correlated linearly with results obtained with a benchtop centrifuge (r = 0.986, P < 0.001). The PCVs measured with the hand-powered centrifuge were consistently 1.14 times higher than those measured with the benchtop system. The 14% increase in PCV measured with the hand-powered centrifuge is caused by increased plasma trapped in the cell column. The reader card was adjusted to compensate for trapped plasma. A hand-powered centrifuge and calibrated reader card can be constructed for U.S. $35 and can accurately determine hematocrit values. It is suitable for use in low-resource settings because it is mechanically-powered, inexpensive, and accurate. PMID:21813855

Evaluation of Energy Efficiency Improvements to Portable Classrooms in Florida.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Callahan, Michael P.; Parker, Danny S.; Sherwin, John R.; Anello, Michael T.

Findings are presented from a 2-year experiment exploring ways to reduce energy costs and improve the learning environment in Florida's 25,000 portable classrooms. Improvements were made in two highly instrumented portable classrooms in the following areas: installation of a T8 lighting system with electronic ballasts; a high efficiency heat pump…

Stir bar sorptive extraction approaches with a home-made portable electric stirrer for the analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon compounds in environmental water.

PubMed

Mao, Xiangju; Hu, Bin; He, Man; Fan, Wenying

2012-10-19

In this study, novel off/on-site stir bar sorptive extraction (SBSE) approaches with a home-made portable electric stirrer have been developed for the analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon compounds (PAHs). In these approaches, a miniature battery-operated electric stirrer was employed to provide agitation of sample solutions instead of the commonly used large size magnetic stirrer powered by alternating current in conventional SBSE process, which could extend the SBSE technique from the conventional off-site analysis to the on-site sampling. The applicability of the designed off/on-site SBSE sampling approaches was evaluated by polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) coating SBSE-high performance liquid chromatography-fluorescence detection (HPLC-FLD) analysis of six target PAHs in environmental water. The home-made portable electric stirrer is simple, easy-to-operate, user friendly, low cost, easy-to-be-commercialized, and can be processed in direct immersion SBSE, headspace sorptive extraction (HSSE) and continuous flow (CF)-SBSE modes. Since the stir bar was fixed onto the portable device by magnetic force, it is very convenient to install, remove and replace the stir bar, and the coating friction loss which occurred frequently in conventional SBSE process could be avoided. The parameters affecting the extraction of six target PAHs by the home-made portable SBSE sampling device with different sampling modes were studied. Under the optimum extraction conditions, good linearity was obtained by all of three SBSE extraction modes with correlation coefficient (R) higher than 0.9971. The limits of detection (LODs, S/N=3) were 0.05-3.41 ng L(-1) for direct immersion SBSE, 0.03-2.23 ng L(-1) for HSSE and 0.09-3.75 ng L(-1) for CF-SBSE, respectively. The proposed portable PDMS-SBSE-HPLC-FLD method was applied for the analysis of six target PAHs in East Lake water, and the analytical results obtained by on-site SBSE sampling were in good agreement with that obtained by off-site SBSE sampling. The accuracy of the developed method was evaluated by recovery test and the recoveries for the spiked sample were found to be in the range of 87.1-122.8% for off-site CF-SBSE, 88.8-114.3% for on-site sampling, and 87.7-123.6% for off-site SBSE, respectively. The developed method is one of the most sensitive methods for PAHs determination and the home-designed SBSE system is feasible for the field sampling. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A portable high-speed camera system for vocal fold examinations.

PubMed

Hertegård, Stellan; Larsson, Hans

2014-11-01

In this article, we present a new portable low-cost system for high-speed examinations of the vocal folds. Analysis of glottal vibratory parameters from the high-speed recordings is compared with videostroboscopic recordings. The high-speed system is built around a Fastec 1 monochrome camera, which is used with newly developed software, High-Speed Studio (HSS). The HSS has options for video/image recording, contains a database, and has a set of analysis options. The Fastec/HSS system has been used clinically since 2011 in more than 2000 patient examinations and recordings. The Fastec 1 camera has sufficient time resolution (≥4000 frames/s) and light sensitivity (ISO 3200) to produce images for detailed analyses of parameters pertinent to vocal fold function. The camera can be used with both rigid and flexible endoscopes. The HSS software includes options for analyses of glottal vibrations, such as kymogram, phase asymmetry, glottal area variation, open and closed phase, and angle of vocal fold abduction. It can also be used for separate analysis of the left and vocal fold movements, including maximum speed during opening and closing, a parameter possibly related to vocal fold elasticity. A blinded analysis of 32 patients with various voice disorders examined with both the Fastec/HSS system and videostroboscopy showed that the high-speed recordings were significantly better for the analysis of glottal parameters (eg, mucosal wave and vibration asymmetry). The monochrome high-speed system can be used in daily clinical work within normal clinical time limits for patient examinations. A detailed analysis can be made of voice disorders and laryngeal pathology at a relatively low cost. Copyright © 2014 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ultra-compact MEMS FTIR spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sabry, Yasser M.; Hassan, Khaled; Anwar, Momen; Alharon, Mohamed H.; Medhat, Mostafa; Adib, George A.; Dumont, Rich; Saadany, Bassam; Khalil, Diaa

2017-05-01

Portable and handheld spectrometers are being developed and commercialized in the late few years leveraging the rapidly-progressing technology and triggering new markets in the field of on-site spectroscopic analysis. Although handheld devices were commercialized for the near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), their size and cost stand as an obstacle against the deployment of the spectrometer as spectral sensing components needed for the smart phone industry and the IoT applications. In this work we report a chip-sized microelectromechanical system (MEMS)-based FTIR spectrometer. The core optical engine of the solution is built using a passive-alignment integration technique for a selfaligned MEMS chip; self-aligned microoptics and a single detector in a tiny package sized about 1 cm3. The MEMS chip is a monolithic, high-throughput scanning Michelson interferometer fabricated using deep reactive ion etching technology of silicon-on-insulator substrate. The micro-optical part is used for conditioning the input/output light to/from the MEMS and for further light direction to the detector. Thanks to the all-reflective design of the conditioning microoptics, the performance is free of chromatic aberration. Complemented by the excellent transmission properties of the silicon in the infrared region, the integrated solution allows very wide spectral range of operation. The reported sensor's spectral resolution is about 33 cm-1 and working in the range of 1270 nm to 2700 nm; upper limited by the extended InGaAs detector. The presented solution provides a low cost, low power, tiny size, wide wavelength range NIR spectral sensor that can be manufactured with extremely high volumes. All these features promise the compatibility of this technology with the forthcoming demand of smart portable and IoT devices.

Stanford - USGS Ultra-Low Frequency Electromagnetic Network: Hardware Developments in Magnetometer Calibration and Data Recording

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bowden, D. C.; Engelland-Gay, H.; Enright, A.; Gardner, J.; Klemperer, S. L.; McPhee, D. K.; Glen, J. M.

2010-12-01

Since 2006 a collaborative effort between Stanford University, the USGS, and UC Berkeley has maintained five ultra-low frequency electromagnetic (UFLEM) stations along the San Andreas Fault system. The standard site is equipped with three orthogonal coil magnetometers and two sets of orthogonal 100m electrode pairs, provides data in the 0.01- 20 Hz bandwidth, and operates alongside a broadband seismometer. We intend to use these data to characterize the generation of subsurface EM signals, and determine whether there exists a correlation to seismic activity or tectonic processes of the region. Our EM data is archived with the collocated seismic data at UC Berkeley’s Northern California Earthquake Data Center (NCEDC) and is available to the public at http://ulfem-data.stanford.edu/. Two new hardware developments in 2010 will provide more reliable calibration of our magnetic recorders, and will improve station reliability while reducing station cost. We have developed a method for calibration of buried magnetic sensor coils. As our strategy for detecting possible EM anomalies related to earthquake processes relies on comparing measured EM signals across multiple sites, it is necessary to confirm that each magnetic sensor at each site responds similarly and accurately. A portable coil placed on the ground surface, in turn above each buried magnetic sensor, generates a time-varying magnetic field of known magnitude at several different known frequencies in the bandwidth of interest. In this way, the health of each sensor can be tested and factory produced response curve verified. Signal generation and power supply for the coil is designed to be cheap (< $100), easily portable, and exactly reproducible between trials to within 95%, but does require an operator visit to each site for the measurements. In the future we intend to modify the portable system to create a winding that can be permanently installed around every magnetic sensor to provide regular calibration by a remote trigger. We have also designed, prototyped and here report results of preliminary field tests on a new data acquisition and logging system. The new system includes 8-channel A-to-D conversion, data packaging, telemetry, and power supply to components. The new system is intended to replace existing commercially-available digitizers (Quanterra) and electric-field signal conditioners (EMI, Inc.) at a fraction of their cost, while maintaining signal fidelity and system noise at levels commensurate with our ULFEM monitoring application.

Enhancing the Usability of an Optical Reader System to Support Point-of-Care Rapid Diagnostic Testing: An Iterative Design Approach.

PubMed

Hohenstein, Jess; O'Dell, Dakota; Murnane, Elizabeth L; Lu, Zhengda; Erickson, David; Gay, Geri

2017-11-21

In today's health care environment, increasing costs and inadequate medical resources have created a worldwide need for more affordable diagnostic tools that are also portable, fast, and easy to use. To address this issue, numerous research and commercial efforts have focused on developing rapid diagnostic technologies; however, the efficacy of existing systems has been hindered by usability problems or high production costs, making them infeasible for deployment in at-home, point-of-care (POC), or resource-limited settings. The aim of this study was to create a low-cost optical reader system that integrates with any smart device and accepts any type of rapid diagnostic test strip to provide fast and accurate data collection, sample analysis, and diagnostic result reporting. An iterative design methodology was employed by a multidisciplinary research team to engineer three versions of a portable diagnostic testing device that were evaluated for usability and overall user receptivity. Repeated design critiques and usability studies identified a number of system requirements and considerations (eg, software compatibility, biomatter contamination, and physical footprint) that we worked to incrementally incorporate into successive system variants. Our final design phase culminated in the development of Tidbit, a reader that is compatible with any Wi-Fi-enabled device and test strip format. The Tidbit includes various features that support intuitive operation, including a straightforward test strip insertion point, external indicator lights, concealed electronic components, and an asymmetric shape, which inherently signals correct device orientation. Usability testing of the Tidbit indicates high usability for potential user communities. This study presents the design process, specification, and user reception of the Tidbit, an inexpensive, easy-to-use, portable optical reader for fast, accurate quantification of rapid diagnostic test results. Usability testing suggests that the reader is usable among and can benefit a wide group of potential users, including in POC contexts. Generally, the methodology of this study demonstrates the importance of testing these types of systems with potential users and exemplifies how iterative design processes can be employed by multidisciplinary research teams to produce compelling technological solutions. ©Jess Hohenstein, Dakota O'Dell, Elizabeth L Murnane, Zhengda Lu, David Erickson, Geri Gay. Originally published in JMIR Human Factors (http://humanfactors.jmir.org), 21.11.2017.

Long-Range Technological Impact on Computer-Aided Product Development at DMA (Defense Mapping Agency).

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-07-01

maintainability, enhanceability, portability, flexibility, reusability of components, expected market or production life span, upward compatibility, integration...cost) but, most often, they involve global marketing and production objectives. A high life- cycle cost may be accepted in exchange for some other...ease of integration. More importantly, these results could be interpreted as suggesting the need to use a mixed approach where one uses a subset of

Portable, lightweight, low power, ion chromatographic system with open tubular capillary columns.

PubMed

Kiplagat, Isaac K; Kubán, Petr; Pelcová, Pavlína; Kubán, Vlastimil

2010-07-30

Basic operation principles of a lightweight, low power, low cost, portable ion chromatograph utilizing open tubular ion chromatography in capillary columns coated with multi-layer polymeric stationary phases are demonstrated. A minimalistic configuration of a portable IC instrument was developed that does not require any chromatographic eluent delivery system, nor sample injection device as it uses gravity-based eluent flow and hydrodynamic sample injection adopted from capillary electrophoresis. As a detection device, an inexpensive commercially available capacitance sensor is used that has been shown to be a suitable substitute for contactless conductivity detection in capillary separation systems. The built-in temperature sensor allows for baseline drift correction typically encountered in conductivity/capacitance measurements without thermostating device. The whole instrument does not require any power supply for its operation, except the detection and data acquisition part that is provided by a USB port of a Netbook computer. It is extremely lightweight, its total weight including the Netbook computer is less than 2.5kg and it can be continuously operated for more than 8h. Several parameters of the instrument, such as detection cell design, eluent delivery systems and data treatment were optimized as well as the composition of eluent for non-suppressed ion chromatographic analysis of common inorganic cations (Na(+), NH(4)(+), K(+), Cs(+), Ca(2+), Mg(2+), transition metals). Low conductivity eluents based on weakly complexing organic acids such as tartaric, oxalic or pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylic acids were used with contactless capacitance detection for simultaneous separation of mono- and divalent cations. Separation of Na(+) and NH(4)(+) cations was optimized by addition of 18-crown-6 to the eluent. The best separation of 6 metal cations commonly present in various environmental samples was accomplished in less than 30min using a 1.75mM pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylic acid and 3mM 18-crown-6 eluent with excellent repeatability (below 2%) and detection limits in the low micromolar range. The analysis of field samples is demonstrated; the concentrations of common inorganic cations in river water, mineral water and snow samples were determined.

Portable image-manipulation software: what is the extra development cost?

PubMed

Ligier, Y; Ratib, O; Funk, M; Perrier, R; Girard, C; Logean, M

1992-08-01

A hospital-wide picture archiving and communication system (PACS) project is currently under development at the University Hospital of Geneva. The visualization and manipulation of images provided by different imaging modalities constitutes one of the most challenging component of a PACS. It was necessary to provide this visualization software on a number of types of workstations because of the varying requirements imposed by the range of clinical uses it must serve. The user interface must be the same, independent of the underlying workstation. In addition to a standard set of image-manipulation and processing tools, there is a need for more specific clinical tools that can be easily adapted to specific medical requirements. To achieve this goal, it was elected to develop a modular and portable software called OSIRIS. This software is available on two different operating systems (the UNIX standard X-11/OSF-Motif based workstations and the Macintosh family) and can be easily ported to other systems. The extra effort required to design such software in a modular and portable way was worthwhile because it resulted in a platform that can be easily expanded and adapted to a variety of specific clinical applications. Its portability allows users to benefit from the rapidly evolving workstation technology and to adapt the performance to suit their needs.

Campaign monitoring of railroad bridges in high-speed rail shared corridors using wireless smart sensors.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-06-01

This research project used wireless smart sensors to develop a cost-effective and practical portable structural health monitoring : system for railroad bridges in North America. The system is designed for periodic deployment rather than as a permanen...

Symmetric Sodium-Ion Capacitor Based on Na0.44MnO2 Nanorods for Low-Cost and High-Performance Energy Storage.

PubMed

Chen, Zhongxue; Yuan, Tianci; Pu, Xiangjun; Yang, Hanxi; Ai, Xinping; Xia, Yongyao; Cao, Yuliang

2018-04-11

Batteries and electrochemical capacitors play very important roles in the portable electronic devices and electric vehicles and have shown promising potential for large-scale energy storage applications. However, batteries or capacitors alone cannot meet the energy and power density requirements because rechargeable batteries have a poor power property, whereas supercapacitors offer limited capacity. Here, a novel symmetric sodium-ion capacitor (NIC) is developed based on low-cost Na 0.44 MnO 2 nanorods. The Na 0.44 MnO 2 with unique nanoarchitectures and iso-oriented feature offers shortened diffusion path lengths for both electronic and Na + transport and reduces the stress associated with Na + insertion and extraction. Benefiting from these merits, the symmetric device achieves a high power density of 2432.7 W kg -1 , an improved energy density of 27.9 Wh kg -1 , and a capacitance retention of 85.2% over 5000 cycles. Particularly, the symmetric NIC based on Na 0.44 MnO 2 permits repeatedly reverse-polarity characteristics, thus simplifying energy management system and greatly enhancing the safety under abuse condition. This cost-effective, high-safety, and high-performance symmetric NIC can balance the energy and power density between batteries and capacitors and serve as an electric power source for future low-maintenance large-scale energy storage systems.

Image manipulation software portable on different hardware platforms: what is the cost?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ligier, Yves; Ratib, Osman M.; Funk, Matthieu; Perrier, Rene; Girard, Christian; Logean, Marianne

1992-07-01

A hospital wide PACS project is currently under development at the University Hospital of Geneva. The visualization and manipulation of images provided by different imaging modalities constitutes one of the most challenging components of a PACS. Because there are different requirements depending on the clinical usage, it was necessary for such a visualization software to be provided on different types of workstations in different sectors of the PACS. The user interface has to be the same independently of the underlying workstation. Beside, in addition to a standard set of image manipulation and processing tools there is a need for more specific clinical tools that should be easily adapted to specific medical requirements. To achieve operating and windowing systems: the standard Unix/X-11/OSF-Motif based workstations and the Macintosh family and should be easily ported on other systems. This paper describes the design of such a system and discusses the extra cost and efforts involved in the development of a portable and easily expandable software.

Development of a portable therapeutic and high intensity ultrasound system for military, medical, and research use

PubMed Central

Lewis, George K.; Olbricht, William L.

2008-01-01

We have developed a portable high power ultrasound system with a very low output impedance amplifier circuit (less than 0.3 Ω) that can transfer more than 90% of the energy from a battery supply to the ultrasound transducer. The system can deliver therapeutic acoustical energy waves at lower voltages than those in conventional ultrasound systems because energy losses owing to a mismatched impedance are eliminated. The system can produce acoustic power outputs over the therapeutic range (greater then 50 W) from a PZT-4, 1.54 MHz, and 0.75 in diameter piezoelectric ceramic. It is lightweight, portable, and powered by a rechargeable battery. The portable therapeutic ultrasound unit has the potential to replace “plug-in” medical systems and rf amplifiers used in research. The system is capable of field service on its internal battery, making it especially useful for military, ambulatory, and remote medical applications. PMID:19045903

Advanced Space Suit Portable Life Support Subsystem Packaging Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Howe, Robert; Diep, Chuong; Barnett, Bob; Thomas, Gretchen; Rouen, Michael; Kobus, Jack

2006-01-01

This paper discusses the Portable Life Support Subsystem (PLSS) packaging design work done by the NASA and Hamilton Sundstrand in support of the 3 future space missions; Lunar, Mars and zero-g. The goal is to seek ways to reduce the weight of PLSS packaging, and at the same time, develop a packaging scheme that would make PLSS technology changes less costly than the current packaging methods. This study builds on the results of NASA s in-house 1998 study, which resulted in the "Flex PLSS" concept. For this study the present EMU schematic (low earth orbit) was used so that the work team could concentrate on the packaging. The Flex PLSS packaging is required to: protect, connect, and hold the PLSS and its components together internally and externally while providing access to PLSS components internally for maintenance and for technology change without extensive redesign impact. The goal of this study was two fold: 1. Bring the advanced space suit integrated Flex PLSS concept from its current state of development to a preliminary design level and build a proof of concept mockup of the proposed design, and; 2. "Design" a Design Process, which accommodates both the initial Flex PLSS design and the package modifications, required to accommodate new technology.

Portable obstructive sleep apnea detection and mobile monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Demirkol ćakmak, Duygu; Eyüboǧlu, B. Murat

2017-05-01

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is becoming a prevalent disease for both adults and children. It is described as the cessation of breath for at least 10 seconds during sleep. Detecting sleep apnea is considered as a troublesome and timeconsuming method, which requires the patients to stay one or more nights in dedicated sleep disorder rooms with sensors physically attached to their body. Undiagnosed thereby untreated sleep apnea patients are under high risk of hypertension, heart attack, traffic accident through fatigue and sleeplessness. In this project, nasal and oral respiratory information is obtained with utilizing thermocouple and oxygen saturation in the blood is obtained with utilizing pulse oximeter. An analog hardware circuit is designed to readout thermocouple and pulse oximeter signals. According to this respiratory and pulse oximetry signals, obstructive sleep apnea is detected in real time with using a software implemented into an ARM based processor. An Android mobile application is developed to record and display the oxygen saturation, heart rate and respiratory signal data during sleep. ARM based processor and mobile application communication is established via Bluetooth interface to reduce cabling on the patient. In summary, a portable, low cost and user friendly device to detect obstructive sleep apnea which is able to share the necessary information to the patients and doctors for the duration of the whole sleep cycle is developed.

Hand-drawn&written pen-on-paper electrochemiluminescence immunodevice powered by rechargeable battery for low-cost point-of-care testing.

PubMed

Yang, Hongmei; Kong, Qingkun; Wang, Shaowei; Xu, Jinmeng; Bian, Zhaoquan; Zheng, Xiaoxiao; Ma, Chao; Ge, Shenguang; Yu, Jinghua

2014-11-15

In this paper, a pen-on-paper electrochemiluminescence (PoP-ECL) device was entirely hand drawn and written in commercially available crayon and pencil in turn for the first time, and a constant potential-triggered sandwich-type immunosensor was introduced into the PoP-ECL device to form a low-cost ECL immunodevice proof. Each PoP-ECL device contained a hydrophilic paper channel and two PoP electrodes, and the PoP-ECL device was produced as follows: crayon was firstly used to draw hydrophobic regions on pure cellulose paper to create the hydrophilic paper channels followed with a baking treatment, and then a 6B-type black pencil with low resistivity was applied for precision writing, as the PoP electrodes, across the hydrophilic paper channel. For further point-of-care testing, a portable, low-cost rechargeable battery was employed as the power source to provide constant potential to the PoP electrodes to trigger the ECL. Using Carbohydrate antigen 199 as model analyte, this PoP-ECL immunodevice showed a good linear response range from 0.01-200 U mL(-1) with a detection limit of 0.0055 U mL(-1), a high sensitivity and stability. The proposed PoP-ECL immunodevice could be used in point-of-care testing of other tumor markers for remote regions and developing countries. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Low-cost, smartphone based frequency doubling technology visual field testing using virtual reality (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alawa, Karam A.; Sayed, Mohamed; Arboleda, Alejandro; Durkee, Heather A.; Aguilar, Mariela C.; Lee, Richard K.

2017-02-01

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Due to its wide prevalence, effective screening tools are necessary. The purpose of this project is to design and evaluate a system that enables portable, cost effective, smartphone based visual field screening based on frequency doubling technology. The system is comprised of an Android smartphone to display frequency doubling stimuli and handle processing, a Bluetooth remote for user input, and a virtual reality headset to simulate the exam. The LG Nexus 5 smartphone and BoboVR Z3 virtual reality headset were used for their screen size and lens configuration, respectively. The system is capable of running the C-20, N-30, 24-2, and 30-2 testing patterns. Unlike the existing system, the smartphone FDT tests both eyes concurrently by showing the same background to both eyes but only displaying the stimulus to one eye at a time. Both the Humphrey Zeiss FDT and the smartphone FDT were tested on five subjects without a history of ocular disease with the C-20 testing pattern. The smartphone FDT successfully produced frequency doubling stimuli at the correct spatial and temporal frequency. Subjects could not tell which eye was being tested. All five subjects preferred the smartphone FDT to the Humphrey Zeiss FDT due to comfort and ease of use. The smartphone FDT is a low-cost, portable visual field screening device that can be used as a screening tool for glaucoma.

Acquiring research-grade ERPs on a shoestring budget: A comparison of a modified Emotiv and commercial SynAmps EEG system.

PubMed

Barham, Michael P; Clark, Gillian M; Hayden, Melissa J; Enticott, Peter G; Conduit, Russell; Lum, Jarrad A G

2017-09-01

This study compared the performance of a low-cost wireless EEG system to a research-grade EEG system on an auditory oddball task designed to elicit N200 and P300 ERP components. Participants were 15 healthy adults (6 female) aged between 19 and 40 (M = 28.56; SD = 6.38). An auditory oddball task was presented comprising 1,200 presentations of a standard tone interspersed by 300 trials comprising a deviant tone. EEG was simultaneously recorded from a modified Emotiv EPOC and a NeuroScan SynAmps RT EEG system. The modifications made to the Emotiv system included attaching research grade electrodes to the Bluetooth transmitter. Additional modifications enabled the Emotiv system to connect to a portable impedance meter. The cost of these modifications and portable impedance meter approached the purchase value of the Emotiv system. Preliminary analyses revealed significantly more trials were rejected from data acquired by the modified Emotiv compared to the SynAmps system. However, the ERP waveforms captured by the Emotiv system were found to be highly similar to the corresponding waveform from the SynAmps system. The latency and peak amplitude of N200 and P300 components were also found to be similar between systems. Overall, the results indicate that, in the context of an oddball task, the ERP acquired by a low-cost wireless EEG system can be of comparable quality to research-grade EEG acquisition equipment. © 2017 Society for Psychophysiological Research.

Reliability and concurrent validity of a peripheral pulse oximeter and health-app system for the quantification of heart rate in healthy adults.

PubMed

Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Losa, Klark Ricardo

2016-06-01

There are downloadable applications (Apps) for cell phones that can measure heart rate in a simple and painless manner. The aim of this study was to assess the reliability of this type of App for a Smartphone using an Android system, compared to the radial pulse and a portable pulse oximeter. We performed a pilot observational study of diagnostic accuracy, randomized in 46 healthy volunteers. The patients' demographic data and cardiac pulse were collected. Radial pulse was measured by palpation of the radial artery with three fingers at the wrist over the radius; a low-cost portable, liquid crystal display finger pulse oximeter; and a Heart Rate Plus for Samsung Galaxy Note®. This study demonstrated high reliability and consistency between systems with respect to the heart rate parameter of healthy adults using three systems. For all parameters, ICC was > 0.93, indicating excellent reliability. Moreover, CVME values for all parameters were between 1.66-4.06 %. We found significant correlation coefficients and no systematic differences between radial pulse palpation and pulse oximeter and a high precision. Low-cost pulse oximeter and App systems can serve as valid instruments for the assessment of heart rate in healthy adults. © The Author(s) 2014.

A compact, portable and low cost generic interrogation strain sensor system using an embedded VCSEL, detector and fibre Bragg grating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Graham C. B.; Van Hoe, Bram; Yan, Zhijun; Maskery, Oliver; Sugden, Kate; Webb, David; Van Steenberge, Geert

2012-03-01

We present a compact, portable and low cost generic interrogation strain sensor system using a fibre Bragg grating configured in transmission mode with a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) light source and a GaAs photodetector embedded in a polymer skin. The photocurrent value is read and stored by a microcontroller. In addition, the photocurrent data is sent via Bluetooth to a computer or tablet device that can present the live data in a real time graph. With a matched grating and VCSEL, the system is able to automatically scan and lock the VCSEL to the most sensitive edge of the grating. Commercially available VCSEL and photodetector chips are thinned down to 20 μm and integrated in an ultra-thin flexible optical foil using several thin film deposition steps. A dedicated micro mirror plug is fabricated to couple the driving optoelectronics to the fibre sensors. The resulting optoelectronic package can be embedded in a thin, planar sensing sheet and the host material for this sheet is a flexible and stretchable polymer. The result is a fully embedded fibre sensing system - a photonic skin. Further investigations are currently being carried out to determine the stability and robustness of the embedded optoelectronic components.

Development of Universal Portable Spray Stand for Touch-Up Process in The Automotive Paintshop

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fatah Muhamed Mukhtar, Muhamed Abdul; Mohideen Shahul Hameed, Rasool

2016-02-01

A spray stand is a custom-made tool used to hold the automotive body parts as well as the devices used to facilitate the operator during the Touch Up process in Paint shop production. This paper discusses about the development of Universal Portable Spray Stand (UPSS) as a tool to hold various types of automotive body parts and model of car during the painting process. The main objective of this study is to determine the effective application of UPSS at the International College of Automotive (ICAM) and also in the automotive industry. This will be helpful to add features to the current spray stand in ICAM and to add value to the spray stand based on selected criteria which are universal, portable and cost saving. In addition, study in the UPSS is also expected to bring reduction in cycle time during the touch up process, in the paint defects and in the ergonomics issues among the operators.

Novel tungsten phosphide embedded nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes: A portable and renewable monitoring platform for anticancer drug in whole blood.

PubMed

Zhou, Haifeng; Ran, Guoxia; Masson, Jean-Francois; Wang, Chan; Zhao, Yuan; Song, Qijun

2018-05-15

Biosensors based on converting the concentration of analytes in complex samples into single electrochemical signals are attractive candidates as low cost, high-throughput, portable and renewable sensor platforms. Here, we describe a simple but practical analytical device for sensing an anticancer drug in whole blood, using the detection of methotrexate (MTX) as a model system. In this biosensor, a novel carbon-based composite, tungsten phosphide embedded nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes (WP/N-CNT), was fixed to the electrode surface that supported redox cycling. The electronic transmission channel in nitrogen doped carbon nanotubes (N-CNT) and the synergistic effect of uniform distribution tungsten phosphide (WP) ensured that the electrode materials have outstanding electrical conductivity and catalytic performance. Meanwhile, the surface electronic structure also endows its surprisingly reproducible performance. To demonstrate portable operation for MTX sensing, screen printing electrodes (SPE) was modified with WP/N-CNT. The sensor exhibited low detection limits (45 nM), wide detection range (0.01-540 μM), good selectivity and long-term stability for the determination of MTX. In addition, the technique was successfully applied for the determination of MTX in whole blood. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Data processing workflows from low-cost digital survey to various applications: three case studies of Chinese historic architecture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Z.; Cao, Y. K.

2015-08-01

The paper focuses on the versatility of data processing workflows ranging from BIM-based survey to structural analysis and reverse modeling. In China nowadays, a large number of historic architecture are in need of restoration, reinforcement and renovation. But the architects are not prepared for the conversion from the booming AEC industry to architectural preservation. As surveyors working with architects in such projects, we have to develop efficient low-cost digital survey workflow robust to various types of architecture, and to process the captured data for architects. Although laser scanning yields high accuracy in architectural heritage documentation and the workflow is quite straightforward, the cost and portability hinder it from being used in projects where budget and efficiency are of prime concern. We integrate Structure from Motion techniques with UAV and total station in data acquisition. The captured data is processed for various purposes illustrated with three case studies: the first one is as-built BIM for a historic building based on registered point clouds according to Ground Control Points; The second one concerns structural analysis for a damaged bridge using Finite Element Analysis software; The last one relates to parametric automated feature extraction from captured point clouds for reverse modeling and fabrication.

Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices for potential use in quantitative and direct detection of disease biomarkers in clinical analysis.

PubMed

Lim, Wei Yin; Goh, Boon Tong; Khor, Sook Mei

2017-08-15

Clinicians, working in the health-care diagnostic systems of developing countries, currently face the challenges of rising costs, increased number of patient visits, and limited resources. A significant trend is using low-cost substrates to develop microfluidic devices for diagnostic purposes. Various fabrication techniques, materials, and detection methods have been explored to develop these devices. Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) have gained attention for sensing multiplex analytes, confirming diagnostic test results, rapid sample analysis, and reducing the volume of samples and analytical reagents. μPADs, which can provide accurate and reliable direct measurement without sample pretreatment, can reduce patient medical burden and yield rapid test results, aiding physicians in choosing appropriate treatment. The objectives of this review are to provide an overview of the strategies used for developing paper-based sensors with enhanced analytical performances and to discuss the current challenges, limitations, advantages, disadvantages, and future prospects of paper-based microfluidic platforms in clinical diagnostics. μPADs, with validated and justified analytical performances, can potentially improve the quality of life by providing inexpensive, rapid, portable, biodegradable, and reliable diagnostics. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Design and Experimental Validation of a USBL Underwater Acoustic Positioning System.

PubMed

Reis, Joel; Morgado, Marco; Batista, Pedro; Oliveira, Paulo; Silvestre, Carlos

2016-09-14

This paper presents the steps for developing a low-cost POrtableNavigation Tool for Underwater Scenarios (PONTUS) to be used as a localization device for subsea targets. PONTUS consists of an integrated ultra-short baseline acoustic positioning system aided by an inertial navigation system. Built on a practical design, it can be mounted on an underwater robotic vehicle or be operated by a scuba diver. It also features a graphical user interface that provides information on the tracking of the designated target, in addition to some details on the physical properties inside PONTUS. A full disclosure of the architecture of the tool is first presented, followed by thorough technical descriptions of the hardware components ensemble and the software development process. A series of experiments was carried out to validate the developed prototype, and the results are presented herein, which allow assessing its overall performance.

Design and Experimental Validation of a USBL Underwater Acoustic Positioning System

PubMed Central

Reis, Joel; Morgado, Marco; Batista, Pedro; Oliveira, Paulo; Silvestre, Carlos

2016-01-01

This paper presents the steps for developing a low-cost POrtableNavigation Tool for Underwater Scenarios (PONTUS) to be used as a localization device for subsea targets. PONTUS consists of an integrated ultra-short baseline acoustic positioning system aided by an inertial navigation system. Built on a practical design, it can be mounted on an underwater robotic vehicle or be operated by a scuba diver. It also features a graphical user interface that provides information on the tracking of the designated target, in addition to some details on the physical properties inside PONTUS. A full disclosure of the architecture of the tool is first presented, followed by thorough technical descriptions of the hardware components ensemble and the software development process. A series of experiments was carried out to validate the developed prototype, and the results are presented herein, which allow assessing its overall performance. PMID:27649181

Performance Analysis and Portability of the PLUM Load Balancing System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oliker, Leonid; Biswas, Rupak; Gabow, Harold N.

1998-01-01

The ability to dynamically adapt an unstructured mesh is a powerful tool for solving computational problems with evolving physical features; however, an efficient parallel implementation is rather difficult. To address this problem, we have developed PLUM, an automatic portable framework for performing adaptive numerical computations in a message-passing environment. PLUM requires that all data be globally redistributed after each mesh adaption to achieve load balance. We present an algorithm for minimizing this remapping overhead by guaranteeing an optimal processor reassignment. We also show that the data redistribution cost can be significantly reduced by applying our heuristic processor reassignment algorithm to the default mapping of the parallel partitioner. Portability is examined by comparing performance on a SP2, an Origin2000, and a T3E. Results show that PLUM can be successfully ported to different platforms without any code modifications.

Portable parallel stochastic optimization for the design of aeropropulsion components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sues, Robert H.; Rhodes, G. S.

1994-01-01

This report presents the results of Phase 1 research to develop a methodology for performing large-scale Multi-disciplinary Stochastic Optimization (MSO) for the design of aerospace systems ranging from aeropropulsion components to complete aircraft configurations. The current research recognizes that such design optimization problems are computationally expensive, and require the use of either massively parallel or multiple-processor computers. The methodology also recognizes that many operational and performance parameters are uncertain, and that uncertainty must be considered explicitly to achieve optimum performance and cost. The objective of this Phase 1 research was to initialize the development of an MSO methodology that is portable to a wide variety of hardware platforms, while achieving efficient, large-scale parallelism when multiple processors are available. The first effort in the project was a literature review of available computer hardware, as well as review of portable, parallel programming environments. The first effort was to implement the MSO methodology for a problem using the portable parallel programming language, Parallel Virtual Machine (PVM). The third and final effort was to demonstrate the example on a variety of computers, including a distributed-memory multiprocessor, a distributed-memory network of workstations, and a single-processor workstation. Results indicate the MSO methodology can be well-applied towards large-scale aerospace design problems. Nearly perfect linear speedup was demonstrated for computation of optimization sensitivity coefficients on both a 128-node distributed-memory multiprocessor (the Intel iPSC/860) and a network of workstations (speedups of almost 19 times achieved for 20 workstations). Very high parallel efficiencies (75 percent for 31 processors and 60 percent for 50 processors) were also achieved for computation of aerodynamic influence coefficients on the Intel. Finally, the multi-level parallelization strategy that will be needed for large-scale MSO problems was demonstrated to be highly efficient. The same parallel code instructions were used on both platforms, demonstrating portability. There are many applications for which MSO can be applied, including NASA's High-Speed-Civil Transport, and advanced propulsion systems. The use of MSO will reduce design and development time and testing costs dramatically.

Flexible, planar-integrated, all-solid-state fiber supercapacitors with an enhanced distributed-capacitance effect.

PubMed

Liu, Bin; Tan, Dongsheng; Wang, Xianfu; Chen, Di; Shen, Guozhen

2013-06-10

Flexible and highly efficient energy storage units act as one of the key components in portable electronics. In this work, by planar-integrated assembly of hierarchical ZnCo₂O₄ nanowire arrays/carbon fibers electrodes, a new class of flexible all-solid-state planar-integrated fiber supercapacitors are designed and produced via a low-cost and facile method. The as-fabricated flexible devices exhibit high-efficiency, enhanced capacity, long cycle life, and excellent electrical stability. An enhanced distributed-capacitance effect is experimentally observed for the device. This strategy enables highly flexible new structured supercapacitors with maximum functionality and minimized size, thus making it possible to be readily applied in flexible/portable photoelectronic devices. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Market survey of fuel cells in Mexico: Niche for low power portable systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramírez-Salgado, Joel; Domínguez-Aguilar, Marco A.

This work provides an overview of the potential market in Mexico for portable electronic devices to be potentially powered by direct methanol fuel cells. An extrapolation method based on data published in Mexico and abroad served to complete this market survey. A review of electronics consumption set the basis for the future forecast and technology assimilation. The potential market for fuel cells for mobile phones in Mexico will be around 5.5 billion USD by 2013, considering a cost of 41 USD per cell in a market of 135 million mobile phones. Likewise, the market for notebook computers, PDAs and other electronic devices will likely grow in the future, with a combined consumption of fuel cell technology equivalent to 1.6 billion USD by 2014.

Assessing Statistically Significant Heavy-Metal Concentrations in Abandoned Mine Areas via Hot Spot Analysis of Portable XRF Data

PubMed Central

Kim, Sung-Min; Choi, Yosoon

2017-01-01

To develop appropriate measures to prevent soil contamination in abandoned mining areas, an understanding of the spatial variation of the potentially toxic trace elements (PTEs) in the soil is necessary. For the purpose of effective soil sampling, this study uses hot spot analysis, which calculates a z-score based on the Getis-Ord Gi* statistic to identify a statistically significant hot spot sample. To constitute a statistically significant hot spot, a feature with a high value should also be surrounded by other features with high values. Using relatively cost- and time-effective portable X-ray fluorescence (PXRF) analysis, sufficient input data are acquired from the Busan abandoned mine and used for hot spot analysis. To calibrate the PXRF data, which have a relatively low accuracy, the PXRF analysis data are transformed using the inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) data. The transformed PXRF data of the Busan abandoned mine are classified into four groups according to their normalized content and z-scores: high content with a high z-score (HH), high content with a low z-score (HL), low content with a high z-score (LH), and low content with a low z-score (LL). The HL and LH cases may be due to measurement errors. Additional or complementary surveys are required for the areas surrounding these suspect samples or for significant hot spot areas. The soil sampling is conducted according to a four-phase procedure in which the hot spot analysis and proposed group classification method are employed to support the development of a sampling plan for the following phase. Overall, 30, 50, 80, and 100 samples are investigated and analyzed in phases 1–4, respectively. The method implemented in this case study may be utilized in the field for the assessment of statistically significant soil contamination and the identification of areas for which an additional survey is required. PMID:28629168

Assessing Statistically Significant Heavy-Metal Concentrations in Abandoned Mine Areas via Hot Spot Analysis of Portable XRF Data.

PubMed

Kim, Sung-Min; Choi, Yosoon

2017-06-18

To develop appropriate measures to prevent soil contamination in abandoned mining areas, an understanding of the spatial variation of the potentially toxic trace elements (PTEs) in the soil is necessary. For the purpose of effective soil sampling, this study uses hot spot analysis, which calculates a z -score based on the Getis-Ord Gi* statistic to identify a statistically significant hot spot sample. To constitute a statistically significant hot spot, a feature with a high value should also be surrounded by other features with high values. Using relatively cost- and time-effective portable X-ray fluorescence (PXRF) analysis, sufficient input data are acquired from the Busan abandoned mine and used for hot spot analysis. To calibrate the PXRF data, which have a relatively low accuracy, the PXRF analysis data are transformed using the inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) data. The transformed PXRF data of the Busan abandoned mine are classified into four groups according to their normalized content and z -scores: high content with a high z -score (HH), high content with a low z -score (HL), low content with a high z -score (LH), and low content with a low z -score (LL). The HL and LH cases may be due to measurement errors. Additional or complementary surveys are required for the areas surrounding these suspect samples or for significant hot spot areas. The soil sampling is conducted according to a four-phase procedure in which the hot spot analysis and proposed group classification method are employed to support the development of a sampling plan for the following phase. Overall, 30, 50, 80, and 100 samples are investigated and analyzed in phases 1-4, respectively. The method implemented in this case study may be utilized in the field for the assessment of statistically significant soil contamination and the identification of areas for which an additional survey is required.

Biophotonic ring resonator for ultrasensitive detection of DMMP as a simulant for organophosphorus agents.

PubMed

Bonnot, Karine; Cuesta-Soto, Francisco; Rodrigo, Manuel; Varriale, Antonio; Sanchez, Nuria; D'Auria, Sabato; Spitzer, Denis; Lopez-Royo, Francisco

2014-05-20

Combining photonic integrated circuits with a biologically based sensing approach has the ability to provide a new generation of portable and low-cost sensor devices with a high specificity and sensitivity for a number of applications in environmental monitoring, defense, and homeland security. We report herein on the specific biosensing under continuous air flow of DMMP, which is commonly used as a simulant and a precursor for the synthesis of Sarin. The proposed technology is based on the selective recognition of the targeted DMMP molecule by specifically modified proteins immobilized on photonic structures. The response of the biophotonic structures shows a high stability and accuracy over 3 months, allowing for the detection in diluted air of DMMP at concentration as low as 35 μg/m(3) (6.8 ppb) in less than 15 min. The performance of the developed technology satisfies most current homeland and military security requirements.

Disinfection of contaminated water by using solar irradiation.

PubMed

Caslake, Laurie F; Connolly, Daniel J; Menon, Vilas; Duncanson, Catriona M; Rojas, Ricardo; Tavakoli, Javad

2004-02-01

Contaminated water causes an estimated 6 to 60 billion cases of gastrointestinal illness annually. The majority of these cases occur in rural areas of developing nations where the water supply remains polluted and adequate sanitation is unavailable. A portable, low-cost, and low-maintenance solar unit to disinfect unpotable water has been designed and tested. The solar disinfection unit was tested with both river water and partially processed water from two wastewater treatment plants. In less than 30 min in midday sunlight, the unit eradicated more than 4 log10 U (99.99%) of bacteria contained in highly contaminated water samples. The solar disinfection unit has been field tested by Centro Panamericano de Ingenieria Sanitaria y Ciencias del Ambiente in Lima, Peru. At moderate light intensity, the solar disinfection unit was capable of reducing the bacterial load in a controlled contaminated water sample by 4 log10 U and disinfected approximately 1 liter of water in 30 min.

Portable DMFC system with methanol sensor-less control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, C. Y.; Liu, D. H.; Huang, C. L.; Chang, C. L.

This work develops a prototype 20 W portable DMFC by system integration of stack, condenser, methanol sensor-less control and start-up characteristics. The effects of these key components and control schemes on the performance are also discussed. To expedite the use of portable DMFC in electronic applications, the system utilizes a novel methanol sensor-less control method, providing improved fuel efficiency, durability, miniaturization and cost reduction. The operating characteristics of the DMFC stack are applied to control the fuel ejection time and period, enabling the system to continue operating even when the MEAs of the stack are deteriorated. The portable system is also designed with several features including water balance and quick start-up (in 5 min). Notably, the proposed system using methanol sensor-less control with injection of pure methanol can power the DVD player and notebook PC. The system specific energy and energy density following three days of operation are 362 Wh kg -1 and 335 Wh L -1, respectively, which are better than those of lithium batteries (∼150 Wh kg -1 and ∼250 Wh L -). This good energy storage feature demonstrates that the portable DMFC is likely to be valuable in computer, communication and consumer electronic (3C) markets.

Rapid Bacterial Detection via an All-Electronic CMOS Biosensor

PubMed Central

Nikkhoo, Nasim; Cumby, Nichole; Gulak, P. Glenn; Maxwell, Karen L.

2016-01-01

The timely and accurate diagnosis of infectious diseases is one of the greatest challenges currently facing modern medicine. The development of innovative techniques for the rapid and accurate identification of bacterial pathogens in point-of-care facilities using low-cost, portable instruments is essential. We have developed a novel all-electronic biosensor that is able to identify bacteria in less than ten minutes. This technology exploits bacteriocins, protein toxins naturally produced by bacteria, as the selective biological detection element. The bacteriocins are integrated with an array of potassium-selective sensors in Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor technology to provide an inexpensive bacterial biosensor. An electronic platform connects the CMOS sensor to a computer for processing and real-time visualization. We have used this technology to successfully identify both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria commonly found in human infections. PMID:27618185

Portable and Reconfigurable Wrist Robot Improves Hand Function for Post-Stroke Subjects.

PubMed

Khor, Kang Xiang; Chin, Patrick Jun Hua; Yeong, Che Fai; Su, Eileen Lee Ming; Narayanan, Aqilah Leela T; Abdul Rahman, Hisyam; Khan, Qamer Iqbal

2017-10-01

Rehabilitation robots have become increasingly popular for stroke rehabilitation. However, the high cost of robots hampers their implementation on a large scale. This paper implements the concept of a modular and reconfigurable robot, reducing its cost and size by adopting different therapeutic end effectors for different training movements using a single robot. The challenge is to increase the robot's portability and identify appropriate kinds of modular tools and configurations. Because literature on the effectiveness of this kind of rehabilitation robot is still scarce, this paper presents the design of a portable and reconfigurable rehabilitation robot and describes its use with a group of post-stroke patients for wrist and forearm training. Seven stroke subjects received training using a reconfigurable robot for 30 sessions, lasting 30 min per session. Post-training, statistical analysis showed significant improvement of 3.29 points (16.20%, p = 0.027) on the Fugl-Meyer assessment scale for forearm and wrist components. Significant improvement of active range of motion was detected in both pronation-supination (75.59%, p = 0.018) and wrist flexion-extension (56.12%, p = 0.018) after the training. These preliminary results demonstrate that the developed reconfigurable robot could improve subjects' wrist and forearm movement.

Dynamic in vivo imaging of small animal brain using pulsed laser diode-based photoacoustic tomography system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Upputuri, Paul Kumar; Pramanik, Manojit

2017-09-01

We demonstrate dynamic in vivo imaging using a low-cost portable pulsed laser diode (PLD)-based photoacoustic tomography system. The system takes advantage of an 803-nm PLD having high-repetition rate ˜7000 Hz combined with a fast-scanning single-element ultrasound transducer leading to a 5 s cross-sectional imaging. Cortical vasculature is imaged in scan time of 5 s with high signal-to-noise ratio ˜48. To examine the ability for dynamic imaging, we monitored the fast uptake and clearance process of indocyanine green in the rat brain. The system will find applications to study neurofunctional activities, characterization of pharmacokinetic, and biodistribution profiles in the development process of drugs or imaging agents.

Calibration of asynchronous smart phone cameras from moving objects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hagen, Oksana; Istenič, Klemen; Bharti, Vibhav; Dhali, Maruf Ahmed; Barmaimon, Daniel; Houssineau, Jérémie; Clark, Daniel

2015-04-01

Calibrating multiple cameras is a fundamental prerequisite for many Computer Vision applications. Typically this involves using a pair of identical synchronized industrial or high-end consumer cameras. This paper considers an application on a pair of low-cost portable cameras with different parameters that are found in smart phones. This paper addresses the issues of acquisition, detection of moving objects, dynamic camera registration and tracking of arbitrary number of targets. The acquisition of data is performed using two standard smart phone cameras and later processed using detections of moving objects in the scene. The registration of cameras onto the same world reference frame is performed using a recently developed method for camera calibration using a disparity space parameterisation and the single-cluster PHD filter.

Pragmatic setup for bioparticle responses by dielectrophoresis for resource limited environment application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, Mohd Anuar Md; Yeop Majlis, Burhanuddin; Kayani, Aminuddin Ahmad

2017-12-01

Various dielectrophoretic responses of bioparticles, including cell-chain, spinning, rotation and clustering, are of high interest in the field due to their benefit into application for biomedical and clinical implementation potential. Numerous attempts using sophisticated equipment setup have been studied to perform those dielectrophoretic responses, however, for development into resource limited environment application, such as portable, sustainable and environmental friendly diagnostic tools, establishment of pragmatic setup using standard, non-sophisticated and low-cost equipment is of important task. Here we show the advantages in the judicious design optimization of tip microelectrode, also with selection of suspending medium and optimization of electric signal configuration in establishing setup that can promote the aforementioned dielectrophoretic responses within standard equipments, i.e. pragmatic setup.

A novel optical ozone sensor based on purely organic phosphor.

PubMed

Lee, Dongwook; Jung, Jaehun; Bilby, David; Kwon, Min Sang; Yun, Jaesook; Kim, Jinsang

2015-02-11

An optical ozone sensor was developed based on the finding that a purely organic phosphor linearly loses its phosphorescence emission intensity in the presence of varying concentration of ozone gas and ozonated water. Compared to conventional conductance-based inorganic sensors, our novel sensory film has many advantages such as easy fabrication, low-cost, and portability. NMR data confirmed that phosphorescence drop is attributed to oxidation of the core triplet generating aldehyde group of the phosphor. We observed that linear correlation between phosphorescence and ozone concentration and it can detect ozone concentrations of 0.1 ppm that is the threshold concentration harmful to human tissue and respiratory organs. Like a litmus paper, this ozone sensor can be fabricated as a free-standing and disposable film.

Development of the MOOSY4 eNose IoT for Sulphur-Based VOC Water Pollution Detection

PubMed Central

Climent, Enric; Pelegri-Sebastia, Jose; Sogorb, Tomas; Talens, J. B.; Chilo, Jose

2017-01-01

In this paper, we describe a new low-cost and portable electronic nose instrument, the Multisensory Odor Olfactory System MOOSY4. This prototype is based on only four metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) gas sensors suitable for IoT technology. The system architecture consists of four stages: data acquisition, data storage, data processing, and user interfacing. The designed eNose was tested with experiment for detection of volatile components in water pollution, as a dimethyl disulphide or dimethyl diselenide or sulphur. Therefore, the results provide evidence that odor information can be recognized with around 86% efficiency, detecting smells unwanted in the water and improving the quality control in bottled water factories. PMID:28825645

Flexible carbon micro-supercapacitors prepared by direct cw-laser writing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cai, Jinguang; Watanabe, Akira

2016-03-01

Micro-/nano-scale power supply units with high energy and high power densities are critical components for the development of compact miniaturized portable electronic devices. Supercapacitors have attracted many research attentions due to their high power density, robust cycle performance, pollution-free operation, and maintenance-free features. Besides, the properties of small size, light weight, and flexibility are also required. On-chip microsupercapacitors (MSCs) have the potential acting as power supply units in portable devices, due to their simplified packaging processes and compatibility to the integrated circuits. However, the fabrication methods and materials should be cost-effective, scalable, and compatible to current electronic industry. Carbon materials own high specific surface areas, electrochemical stability, and high electrical conductivity, which are critical parameters for high-power supercapacitors. Moreover, the high mechanical tolerance makes them good candidates for flexible wearable devices. Therefore, MSCs based on carbon materials would satisfy the requirements of portable electronics. In this work, we demonstrated the fabrication of carbon MSCs by laser direct writing on commercial polyimide sheets in Ar with lowcost semiconductor cw-laser with a wavelength of 405nm. The obtained structures are macro-nanostructures comprising graphitized and amorphous carbon with relatively smooth surfaces and low resistance, in compared with the structures obtained by laser writing in air. As-prepared micro-supercapacitors show a high capacitance of about 14.9 mF/cm2 at a scanning rate of 10 mV/s, which is comparable to the reported highest capacitance of carbon-based supercapacitors fabricated by pulse-laser writing.

A portable circulating tumor cell capture microdevice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Datar, Ram H.

2009-03-01

Sensitive detection of earliest metastatic spread of tumors in a minimally invasive and user-friendly manner will revolutionize the clinical management of cancer patients. The current methodologies for circulating tumor cell (CTC) capture and identification have significant limitations including time, cost, limited capture efficiency and lack of standardization. We have developed and optimized a novel parylene membrane filter-based portable microdevice for size-based isolation of CTC from human peripheral blood. Following characterization with a model system to study the recovery rate and enrichment factor, a comparison of the microdevice with the commercially available system using blood from cancer patients demonstrated superior recovery rate and the promise of clinical utility of the microdevice. The development of the microdevice and its potential clinical applicability will be discussed.

A mini-microscope for in situ monitoring of cells.

PubMed

Kim, Sang Bok; Koo, Kyo-in; Bae, Hojae; Dokmeci, Mehmet R; Hamilton, Geraldine A; Bahinski, Anthony; Kim, Sun Min; Ingber, Donald E; Khademhosseini, Ali

2012-10-21

A mini-microscope was developed for in situ monitoring of cells by modifying off-the-shelf components of a commercial webcam. The mini-microscope consists of a CMOS imaging module, a small plastic lens and a white LED illumination source. The CMOS imaging module was connected to a laptop computer through a USB port for image acquisition and analysis. Due to its compact size, 8 × 10 × 9 cm, the present microscope is portable and can easily fit inside a conventional incubator, and enables real-time monitoring of cellular behaviour. Moreover, the mini-microscope can be used for imaging cells in conventional cell culture flasks, such as Petri dishes and multi-well plates. To demonstrate the operation of the mini-microscope, we monitored the cellular migration of mouse 3T3 fibroblasts in a scratch assay in medium containing three different concentrations of fetal bovine serum (5, 10, and 20%) and demonstrated differential responses depending on serum levels. In addition, we seeded embryonic stem cells inside poly(ethylene glycol) microwells and monitored the formation of stem cell aggregates in real time using the mini-microscope. Furthermore, we also combined a lab-on-a-chip microfluidic device for microdroplet generation and analysis with the mini-microscope and observed the formation of droplets under different flow conditions. Given its cost effectiveness, robust imaging and portability, the presented platform may be useful for a range of applications for real-time cellular imaging using lab-on-a-chip devices at low cost.

A mini-microscope for in situ monitoring of cells†‡

PubMed Central

Kim, Sang Bok; Koo, Kyo-in; Bae, Hojae; Dokmeci, Mehmet R.; Hamilton, Geraldine A.; Bahinski, Anthony; Kim, Sun Min; Ingber, Donald E.

2013-01-01

A mini-microscope was developed for in situ monitoring of cells by modifying off-the-shelf components of a commercial webcam. The mini-microscope consists of a CMOS imaging module, a small plastic lens and a white LED illumination source. The CMOS imaging module was connected to a laptop computer through a USB port for image acquisition and analysis. Due to its compact size, 8 × 10 × 9 cm, the present microscope is portable and can easily fit inside a conventional incubator, and enables real-time monitoring of cellular behaviour. Moreover, the mini-microscope can be used for imaging cells in conventional cell culture flasks, such as Petri dishes and multi-well plates. To demonstrate the operation of the mini-microscope, we monitored the cellular migration of mouse 3T3 fibroblasts in a scratch assay in medium containing three different concentrations of fetal bovine serum (5, 10, and 20%) and demonstrated differential responses depending on serum levels. In addition, we seeded embryonic stem cells inside poly(ethylene glycol) microwells and monitored the formation of stem cell aggregates in real time using the mini-microscope. Furthermore, we also combined a lab-on-a-chip microfluidic device for microdroplet generation and analysis with the mini-microscope and observed the formation of droplets under different flow conditions. Given its cost effectiveness, robust imaging and portability, the presented platform may be useful for a range of applications for real-time cellular imaging using lab-on-a-chip devices at low cost. PMID:22911426

Smartphones Based Mobile Mapping Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Al-Hamad, A.; El-Sheimy, N.

2014-06-01

The past 20 years have witnessed an explosive growth in the demand for geo-spatial data. This demand has numerous sources and takes many forms; however, the net effect is an ever-increasing thirst for data that is more accurate, has higher density, is produced more rapidly, and is acquired less expensively. For mapping and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) projects, this has been achieved through the major development of Mobile Mapping Systems (MMS). MMS integrate various navigation and remote sensing technologies which allow mapping from moving platforms (e.g. cars, airplanes, boats, etc.) to obtain the 3D coordinates of the points of interest. Such systems obtain accuracies that are suitable for all but the most demanding mapping and engineering applications. However, this accuracy doesn't come cheaply. As a consequence of the platform and navigation and mapping technologies used, even an "inexpensive" system costs well over 200 000 USD. Today's mobile phones are getting ever more sophisticated. Phone makers are determined to reduce the gap between computers and mobile phones. Smartphones, in addition to becoming status symbols, are increasingly being equipped with extended Global Positioning System (GPS) capabilities, Micro Electro Mechanical System (MEMS) inertial sensors, extremely powerful computing power and very high resolution cameras. Using all of these components, smartphones have the potential to replace the traditional land MMS and portable GPS/GIS equipment. This paper introduces an innovative application of smartphones as a very low cost portable MMS for mapping and GIS applications.

Can portable pyrolysis units make biomass utilization affordable while using bio-char to enhance soil productivity and sequester carbon?

Treesearch

Mark Coleman; Deborah Page-Dumroese; Jim Archuleta; Phil Badger; Woodum Chung; Tyron Venn; Dan Loeffler; Greg Jones; Kristin McElligott

2010-01-01

We describe a portable pyrolysis system for bioenergy production from forest biomass that minimizes long-distance transport costs and provides for nutrient return and long-term soil carbon storage. The cost for transporting biomass to conversion facilities is a major impediment to utilizing forest biomass. If forest biomass could be converted into bio-oil in the field...

Ten-kilogram vehicle autonomous operations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rogers, John R.; Korpela, Christopher; Quigley, Kevin

2009-05-01

A low-cost unmanned ground vehicle designed to benchmark high-speed performance is presented. The E-Maxx four-wheel-drive radio-controlled vehicle equipped with a Robostix controller is proposed as a low-cost, high-speed robotic platform useful for military operations. The vehicle weighs less than ten kilograms making it easily portable by one person. Keeping cost low is a major consideration in the design with the aim of providing a disposable military robot. The suitability of the platform was evaluated and results are presented. Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) upgrades to the basic vehicle are recommended for durability. A procedure was established for bird's-eye-view video recording to document vehicle dynamics. Driver/vehicle performance is quantified by entry velocity, exit velocity and total time through a 90° turn on low-friction terrain. A setup for measuring these values is presented. Expert drivers use controlled skidding to minimize time through turns and the long term goal of the project is to automate such expert behaviors. Results of vehicle performance under human control are presented and stand as a reference for future autonomy.

The Citizen Science Toolbox: A One-Stop Resource for Air Sensor Technology

EPA Science Inventory

The air sensor technology market is exploding with new sensors in all kinds of forms. Developers are putting sensors in wristbands, headphones, and cell phone add-ons. Small, portable and lower-cost measurement devices using sensors are coming on the market with a wide variety of...

47 CFR 52.16 - Billing and Collection Agent.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 47 CFR 64.604(c)(4)(iii)(H) of this chapter), and the local number portability cost recovery (See 47... may make requests for Commission nondisclosure of company-specific revenue information under § 0.459...-specific information. (d) Develop procedures to monitor industry compliance with reporting requirements and...

47 CFR 52.16 - Billing and Collection Agent.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 47 CFR 64.604(c)(4)(iii)(H) of this chapter), and the local number portability cost recovery (See 47... may make requests for Commission nondisclosure of company-specific revenue information under § 0.459...-specific information. (d) Develop procedures to monitor industry compliance with reporting requirements and...

47 CFR 52.16 - Billing and Collection Agent.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 CFR 64.604(c)(4)(iii)(H) of this chapter), and the local number portability cost recovery (See 47... may make requests for Commission nondisclosure of company-specific revenue information under § 0.459...-specific information. (d) Develop procedures to monitor industry compliance with reporting requirements and...

Development of an ultra-compact mid-infrared attenuated total reflectance spectrophotometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Dong Soo; Lee, Tae-Ro; Yoon, Gilwon

2014-07-01

Mid-infrared spectroscopy has been an important tool widely used for qualitative analysis in various fields. However, portable or personal use is size and cost prohibitive for either Fourier transform infrared or attenuated total reflectance (ATR) spectrophotometers. In this study, we developed an ultra-compact ATR spectrophotometer whose frequency band was 5.5-11.0 μm. We used miniature components, such as a light source fabricated by semiconductor technology, a linear variable filter, and a pyro-electric array detector. There were no moving parts. Optimal design based on two light sources, a zippered configuration of the array detector and ATR optics could produce absorption spectra that might be used for qualitative analysis. A microprocessor synchronized the pulsed light sources and detector, and all the signals were processed digitally. The size was 13.5×8.5×3.5 cm3 and the weight was 300 grams. Due to its low cost, our spectrophotometer can replace many online monitoring devices. Another application could be for a u-healthcare system installed in the bathroom or attached to a smartphone for monitoring substances in body fluids.

Brushless dc motors. [applications in non-space technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1975-01-01

Brushless dc motors were intensively developed and tested over several years before qualification as the prime movers for Apollo Spacecraft life support blowers, and for circulating oxygen in the lunar portable life support system. Knowledge gained through prototype development and critical testing has significantly influenced the technology employed, broadened markets and applications, and reduced the cost of present day motors.

Diagnostics for invasive Salmonella infections: current challenges and future directions

PubMed Central

Andrews, Jason R.; Ryan, Edward T.

2015-01-01

Invasive Salmonellosis caused by Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi or Paratyphi A, B, C, or invasive non-typhoidal Salmonella serotypes, is an immensely important disease cluster for which reliable, rapid diagnostic tests are not available. Blood culture remains the gold standard but is insensitive, slow, and resource-intensive. Existing molecular diagnostics have poor sensitivity due to the low organism burden in bodily fluids. Commercially available serologic tests for typhoidal Salmonella have had limited sensitivity and specificity. In high burden, resource-limited settings, reliance on clinical diagnosis or inaccurate tests often results in frequent, unnecessary treatment, which contributes selective pressure for the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. This practice also results in inadequate therapy for other etiologies of acute febrile illnesses, including leptospirosis and rickettsial infections. A number of novel serologic, molecular, transcriptomic and metabolomic approaches to diagnostics are under development. Target product profiles that outline specific needs may focus development and investment, and establish benchmarks for accuracy, cost, speed, and portability of new diagnostics. Of note, a critical barrier to diagnostic assay rollout will be the low cost and low perceived harm of empiric therapy on behalf of providers and patients, which leaves few perceived incentives to utilize diagnostics. Approaches that align incentives with societal goals of limiting inappropriate antimicrobial use, such as subsidizing diagnostics, may be essential for stimulating development and uptake of such assays in resource-limited settings. New diagnostics for invasive Salmonellosis should be developed and deployed alongside diagnostics for alternative etiologies of acute febrile illnesses to improve targeted use of antibiotics. PMID:25937611

Diagnostics for invasive Salmonella infections: Current challenges and future directions.

PubMed

Andrews, Jason R; Ryan, Edward T

2015-06-19

Invasive Salmonellosis caused by Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi or Paratyphi A, B, C, or invasive non-typhoidal Salmonella serotypes, is an immensely important disease cluster for which reliable, rapid diagnostic tests are not available. Blood culture remains the gold standard but is insensitive, slow, and resource-intensive. Existing molecular diagnostics have poor sensitivity due to the low organism burden in bodily fluids. Commercially available serologic tests for typhoidal Salmonella have had limited sensitivity and specificity. In high burden, resource-limited settings, reliance on clinical diagnosis or inaccurate tests often results in frequent, unnecessary treatment, which contributes selective pressure for the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. This practice also results in inadequate therapy for other etiologies of acute febrile illnesses, including leptospirosis and rickettsial infections. A number of novel serologic, molecular, transcriptomic and metabolomic approaches to diagnostics are under development. Target product profiles that outline specific needs may focus development and investment, and establish benchmarks for accuracy, cost, speed, and portability of new diagnostics. Of note, a critical barrier to diagnostic assay rollout will be the low cost and low perceived harm of empiric therapy on behalf of providers and patients, which leaves few perceived incentives to utilize diagnostics. Approaches that align incentives with societal goals of limiting inappropriate antimicrobial use, such as subsidizing diagnostics, may be essential for stimulating development and uptake of such assays in resource-limited settings. New diagnostics for invasive Salmonellosis should be developed and deployed alongside diagnostics for alternative etiologies of acute febrile illnesses to improve targeted use of antibiotics. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

CMOS based capacitance to digital converter circuit for MEMS sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rotake, D. R.; Darji, A. D.

2018-02-01

Most of the MEMS cantilever based system required costly instruments for characterization, processing and also has large experimental setups which led to non-portable device. So there is a need of low cost, highly sensitive, high speed and portable digital system. The proposed Capacitance to Digital Converter (CDC) interfacing circuit converts capacitance to digital domain which can be easily processed. Recent demand microcantilever deflection is part per trillion ranges which change the capacitance in 1-10 femto farad (fF) range. The entire CDC circuit is designed using CMOS 250nm technology. Design of CDC circuit consists of a D-latch and two oscillators, namely Sensor controlled oscillator (SCO) and digitally controlled oscillator (DCO). The D-latch is designed using transmission gate based MUX for power optimization. A CDC design of 7-stage, 9-stage and 11-stage tested for 1-18 fF and simulated using mentor graphics Eldo tool with parasitic. Since the proposed design does not use resistance component, the total power dissipation is reduced to 2.3621 mW for CDC designed using 9-stage SCO and DCO.

Application of a LED-based reflectance sensor for the assessing in situ the lycopene content of tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mignani, Anna G.; Ciaccheri, Leonardo; Mencaglia, Andrea A.; Tuccio, Lorenza; Agati, Giovanni

2015-05-01

Nondestructive in situ determination of the antioxidant lycopene of fresh tomato fruits is of large interest for the growers, willing to optimize the harvest time for high quality products. For this, we developed a portable LED-based colorimeter which was able to measure reflectance spectra of whole tomatoes in the 400-750 nm range. The tomato skins from the same samples were then frozen in liquid nitrogen, extracted with an acetone/ethanol/hexane mixture and analyzed by means of a spectrophotometer for their lycopene content. Concentration of lycopene was varying between 70 and 550 mg/Kg fresh weight skin. Partial Least Square regression was used to correlate spectral data to the tomato lycopene content. The multivariate processing of the reflectance data showed that lycopene content could be nicely predicted with a coefficient of determination R2=0.945 and a root mean square error of cross-validation RMSECV=57 mg/Kg skin fresh weight. These results suggest that portable, low-cost and compact LED-based sensors appear to be promising instruments for the nondestructive assessment of tomato lycopene even in the field.

Radionuclide evaluation of left ventricular function with nonimaging probes.

PubMed

Wexler, J P; Blaufox, M D

1979-10-01

Portable nonimaging probes have been developed that can evaluate left ventricular function using radionuclide techniques. Two modes of data acquisition are possible with these probe systems, first-pass and gated. Precordial radiocardiograms obtained after a bolus injection can be used to determine cardiac output, pulmonary transit time, pulmonary blood volume, left ventricle ejection fraction, and left-to-right shunts. Gated techniques can be used to determine left ventricular ejection fraction and sytolic time intervals. Probe-determined indices of left ventricular function agree excellently with comparable measurements determined by conventional camera-computer methods as well as by invasive techniques. These have begun to be used in a preliminary manner in a variety of clinical problems associated with left ventricular dysfunction. This review discusses the types of probe systems available, the methods used in positioning them, and details the specifics of their data acquisition and processing capacity. The major criticisms of probe methods are that they are nonimaging and that they measure global rather than regional left ventricular function. In spite of these criticisms, probe systems, because of their portability, high sensitivity, and relatively low cost are useful supplements to conventional camera-computer systems for the measurement of parameters of left ventricular performance using radionuclide techniques.

Application of portable XRF and VNIR sensors for rapid assessment of soil heavy metal pollution.

PubMed

Hu, Bifeng; Chen, Songchao; Hu, Jie; Xia, Fang; Xu, Junfeng; Li, Yan; Shi, Zhou

2017-01-01

Rapid heavy metal soil surveys at large scale with high sampling density could not be conducted with traditional laboratory physical and chemical analyses because of the high cost, low efficiency and heavy workload involved. This study explored a rapid approach to assess heavy metals contamination in 301 farmland soils from Fuyang in Zhejiang Province, in the southern Yangtze River Delta, China, using portable proximal soil sensors. Portable X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (PXRF) was used to determine soil heavy metals total concentrations while soil pH was predicted by portable visible-near infrared spectroscopy (PVNIR). Zn, Cu and Pb were successfully predicted by PXRF (R2 >0.90 and RPD >2.50) while As and Ni were predicted with less accuracy (R2 <0.75 and RPD <1.40). The pH values were well predicted by PVNIR. Classification of heavy metals contamination grades in farmland soils was conducted based on previous results; the Kappa coefficient was 0.87, which showed that the combination of PXRF and PVNIR was an effective and rapid method to determine the degree of pollution with soil heavy metals. This study provides a new approach to assess soil heavy metals pollution; this method will facilitate large-scale surveys of soil heavy metal pollution.

Application of portable XRF and VNIR sensors for rapid assessment of soil heavy metal pollution

PubMed Central

Hu, Bifeng; Chen, Songchao; Hu, Jie; Xia, Fang; Xu, Junfeng; Li, Yan; Shi, Zhou

2017-01-01

Rapid heavy metal soil surveys at large scale with high sampling density could not be conducted with traditional laboratory physical and chemical analyses because of the high cost, low efficiency and heavy workload involved. This study explored a rapid approach to assess heavy metals contamination in 301 farmland soils from Fuyang in Zhejiang Province, in the southern Yangtze River Delta, China, using portable proximal soil sensors. Portable X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (PXRF) was used to determine soil heavy metals total concentrations while soil pH was predicted by portable visible-near infrared spectroscopy (PVNIR). Zn, Cu and Pb were successfully predicted by PXRF (R2 >0.90 and RPD >2.50) while As and Ni were predicted with less accuracy (R2 <0.75 and RPD <1.40). The pH values were well predicted by PVNIR. Classification of heavy metals contamination grades in farmland soils was conducted based on previous results; the Kappa coefficient was 0.87, which showed that the combination of PXRF and PVNIR was an effective and rapid method to determine the degree of pollution with soil heavy metals. This study provides a new approach to assess soil heavy metals pollution; this method will facilitate large-scale surveys of soil heavy metal pollution. PMID:28234944

Catalytic molecularly imprinted polymer membranes: development of the biomimetic sensor for phenols detection.

PubMed

Sergeyeva, T A; Slinchenko, O A; Gorbach, L A; Matyushov, V F; Brovko, O O; Piletsky, S A; Sergeeva, L M; Elska, G V

2010-02-05

Portable biomimetic sensor devices for the express control of phenols content in water were developed. The synthetic binding sites mimicking active site of the enzyme tyrosinase were formed in the structure of free-standing molecularly imprinted polymer membranes. Molecularly imprinted polymer membranes with the catalytic activity were obtained by co-polymerization of the complex Cu(II)-catechol-urocanic acid ethyl ester with (tri)ethyleneglycoldimethacrylate, and oligourethaneacrylate. Addition of the elastic component oligourethaneacrylate provided formation of the highly cross-linked polymer with the catalytic activity in a form of thin, flexible, and mechanically stable membrane. High accessibility of the artificial catalytic sites for the interaction with the analyzed phenol molecules was achieved due to addition of linear polymer (polyethyleneglycol Mw 20,000) to the initial monomer mixture before the polymerization. As a result, typical semi-interpenetrating polymer networks (semi-IPNs) were formed. The cross-linked component of the semi-IPN was represented by the highly cross-linked catalytic molecularly imprinted polymer, while the linear one was represented by polyethyleneglycol Mw 20,000. Extraction of the linear polymer from the fully formed semi-IPN resulted in formation of large pores in the membranes' structure. Concentration of phenols in the analyzed samples was detected using universal portable device oxymeter with the oxygen electrode in a close contact with the catalytic molecularly imprinted polymer membrane as a transducer. The detection limit of phenols detection using the developed sensor system based on polymers-biomimics with the optimized composition comprised 0.063 mM, while the linear range of the sensor comprised 0.063-1 mM. The working characteristics of the portable sensor devices were investigated. Storage stability of sensor systems at room temperature comprised 12 months (87%). As compared to traditional methods of phenols detection the developed sensor system is characterized by simplicity of operation, compactness, and low cost. Copyright 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Portable microfluidic and smartphone-based devices for monitoring of cardiovascular diseases at the point of care.

PubMed

Hu, Jie; Cui, Xingye; Gong, Yan; Xu, Xiayu; Gao, Bin; Wen, Ting; Lu, Tian Jian; Xu, Feng

2016-01-01

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the main causes of morbidity and mortality in the world where about 4 in every 5 CVD deaths happen in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Most CVDs are preventable and curable, which is largely dependent on timely and effective interventions, including diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic monitoring. However, these interventions are high-cost in high income countries and are usually lacking in LMICs. Thanks to the rapid development of microfluidics and nanotechnology, lots of portable analytical devices are developed for detection of CVDs at the point-of-care (POC). In the meantime, smartphone, as a versatile and powerful handheld tool, has been employed not only as a reader for microfluidic assays, but also as an analyzer for physiological indexes. In this review, we present a comprehensive introduction of the current status and potential development direction on POC diagnostics for CVDs. First of all, we introduce some main facts about CVDs and their standard diagnostic procedures and methods. Second, we discuss about both commercially available POC devices and developed prototypes for detection of CVDs via immunoassays. Subsequently, we report the advances in smartphone-based readout for microfluidic assays. Finally, we present some examples using smartphone, individually or combined with other components or devices, for CVD monitoring. We envision an integrated smartphone-based system capable of functioning blood tests, disease examination, and imaging will come in the future. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Methodology for cost analysis of film-based and filmless portable chest systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melson, David L.; Gauvain, Karen M.; Beardslee, Brian M.; Kraitsik, Michael J.; Burton, Larry; Blaine, G. James; Brink, Gary S.

1996-05-01

Many studies analyzing the costs of film-based and filmless radiology have focused on multi- modality, hospital-wide solutions. Yet due to the enormous cost of converting an entire large radiology department or hospital to a filmless environment all at once, institutions often choose to eliminate film one area at a time. Narrowing the focus of cost-analysis may be useful in making such decisions. This presentation will outline a methodology for analyzing the cost per exam of film-based and filmless solutions for providing portable chest exams to Intensive Care Units (ICUs). The methodology, unlike most in the literature, is based on parallel data collection from existing filmless and film-based ICUs, and is currently being utilized at our institution. Direct costs, taken from the perspective of the hospital, for portable computed radiography chest exams in one filmless and two film-based ICUs are identified. The major cost components are labor, equipment, materials, and storage. Methods for gathering and analyzing each of the cost components are discussed, including FTE-based and time-based labor analysis, incorporation of equipment depreciation, lease, and maintenance costs, and estimation of materials costs. Extrapolation of data from three ICUs to model hypothetical, hospital-wide film-based and filmless ICU imaging systems is described. Performance of sensitivity analysis on the filmless model to assess the impact of anticipated reductions in specific labor, equipment, and archiving costs is detailed. A number of indirect costs, which are not explicitly included in the analysis, are identified and discussed.

Colorimetric detection for paper-based biosensing applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brink, C.; Joubert, T.-H.

2016-02-01

Research on affordable point-of-care health diagnostics is rapidly advancing1. Colorimetric biosensor applications are typically qualitative, but recently the focus has been shifted to quantitative measurements2,3. Although numerous qualitative point-of-care (POC) health diagnostic devices are available, the challenge exists of developing a quantitative colorimetric array reader system that complies with the ASSURED (Affordable, Sensitive, Specific, User-friendly, Rapid and Robust, Equipment-free, Deliverable to end-users) principles of the World Health Organization4. This paper presents a battery powered 8-bit tonal resolution colorimetric sensor circuit for paper microfluidic assays using low cost photo-detection circuitry and a low-power LED light source. A colorimetric 3×3-pixel array reader was developed for rural environments where resources and personnel are limited. The device sports an ultralow-power E-ink paper display. The colorimetric device includes integrated GPS functionality and EEPROM memory to log measurements with geo-tags for possible analysis of regional trends. The device competes with colour intensity measurement techniques using smartphone cameras, but proves to be a cheaper solution, compensating for the typical performance variations between cameras of different brands of smartphones. Inexpensive methods for quantifying bacterial assays have been shown using desktop scanners, which are not portable, and cameras, which suffer severely from changes in ambient light in different environments. Promising colorimetric detection results have been demonstrated using devices such as video cameras5, digital colour analysers6, flatbed scanners7 or custom portable readers8. The major drawback of most of these methods is the need for specialized instrumentation and for image analysis on a computer.

Simple, low-cost fabrication of semi-circular channel using the surface tension of solder paste and its application to microfluidic valves.

PubMed

Yan, Sheng; Li, Yuxing; Zhu, Yuanqing; Liu, Minsu; Zhao, Qianbin; Yuan, Dan; Yun, Guolin; Zhang, Shiwu; Wen, Weijia; Tang, Shi-Yang; Li, Weihua

2018-06-01

This work presents a simple, low-cost method to fabricate semi-circular channels using solder paste, which can amalgamate the cooper surface to form a half-cylinder mold using the surface tension of Sn-Pd alloy (the main component in solder paste). This technique enables semi-circular channels to be manufactured with different dimensions. These semi-circular channels will then be integrated with a polymethylmethacrylate frame and machine screws to create miniaturized, portable microfluidic valves for sequential liquid delivery and particle synthesis. This approach avoids complicated fabrication processes and expensive facilities and thus has the potential to be a useful tool for lab-on-a-chip applications. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Towards a portable Raman spectrometer using a concave grating and a time-gated CMOS SPAD.

PubMed

Li, Zhiyun; Deen, M Jamal

2014-07-28

A low-cost, compact Raman spectrometer suitable for the on-line water monitoring applications is explored. A custom-designed concave grating for wavelength selection was fabricated and tested. The detection of the Raman signal is accomplished with a time-gated single photon avalanche diode (TG-SPAD). A fixed gate window of 3.5ns is designed and applied to the TG-SPAD. The temporal resolution of the SPAD was ~60ps when tested with a 7ps, 532nm solid-state laser. To test the efficiency of the gating in fluorescence signal suppression, different detection windows (3ns-0.25ns) within the 3.5ns gate window are used to measure the Raman spectra of Rhodamine B. Strong Raman peaks are resolved with this low-cost system.

Avoiding short circuits from zinc metal dendrites in anode by backside-plating configuration

PubMed Central

Higashi, Shougo; Lee, Seok Woo; Lee, Jang Soo; Takechi, Kensuke; Cui, Yi

2016-01-01

Portable power sources and grid-scale storage both require batteries combining high energy density and low cost. Zinc metal battery systems are attractive due to the low cost of zinc and its high charge-storage capacity. However, under repeated plating and stripping, zinc metal anodes undergo a well-known problem, zinc dendrite formation, causing internal shorting. Here we show a backside-plating configuration that enables long-term cycling of zinc metal batteries without shorting. We demonstrate 800 stable cycles of nickel–zinc batteries with good power rate (20 mA cm−2, 20 C rate for our anodes). Such a backside-plating method can be applied to not only zinc metal systems but also other metal-based electrodes suffering from internal short circuits. PMID:27263471

Avoiding short circuits from zinc metal dendrites in anode by backside-plating configuration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Higashi, Shougo; Lee, Seok Woo; Lee, Jang Soo; Takechi, Kensuke; Cui, Yi

2016-06-01

Portable power sources and grid-scale storage both require batteries combining high energy density and low cost. Zinc metal battery systems are attractive due to the low cost of zinc and its high charge-storage capacity. However, under repeated plating and stripping, zinc metal anodes undergo a well-known problem, zinc dendrite formation, causing internal shorting. Here we show a backside-plating configuration that enables long-term cycling of zinc metal batteries without shorting. We demonstrate 800 stable cycles of nickel-zinc batteries with good power rate (20 mA cm-2, 20 C rate for our anodes). Such a backside-plating method can be applied to not only zinc metal systems but also other metal-based electrodes suffering from internal short circuits.

Portable and cost-effective pixel super-resolution on-chip microscope for telemedicine applications.

PubMed

Bishara, Waheb; Sikora, Uzair; Mudanyali, Onur; Su, Ting-Wei; Yaglidere, Oguzhan; Luckhart, Shirley; Ozcan, Aydogan

2011-01-01

We report a field-portable lensless on-chip microscope with a lateral resolution of <1 μm and a large field-of-view of ~24 mm(2). This microscope is based on digital in-line holography and a pixel super-resolution algorithm to process multiple lensfree holograms and obtain a single high-resolution hologram. In its compact and cost-effective design, we utilize 23 light emitting diodes butt-coupled to 23 multi-mode optical fibers, and a simple optical filter, with no moving parts. Weighing only ~95 grams, we demonstrate the performance of this field-portable microscope by imaging various objects including human malaria parasites in thin blood smears.

Measurement of concentration of sugar in solutions with laser speckle decorrelation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahajan, Swapnil; Trivedi, Vismay; Chhaniwal, Vani; Prajapati, Mahendra; Zalevsky, Zeev; Javidi, Bahram; Anand, Arun

2015-05-01

Measurement of rotation of plane of polarization of linearly polarized light can provide information about the concentration of the optically active system with which it interacts. For substances containing sugar, accurate measurement of rotation of linearly polarized light can provide quantitative information about concentration of sugar in the material. Measurement of sugar concentration is important in areas ranging from blood sugar level measurement in body fluids to measurement of sugar concentrations in juices and other beverages. But in many of these cases, the changes introduced to the state of polarization considering a sample of practical proportion is low and the measurement of low optical rotations becomes necessary. So methods with higher sensitivity, accuracy and resolution need to be developed for the measurement of low optical rotations. Here we describe the development of a compact, low cost, field portable, device for rotation sensing leading to sugar concentration measurements, using speckle de-correlation technique. The developed device measures rotations by determining the changes occurring to a speckle pattern generated by a laser beam passing through the medium under investigation. The device consists of a sample chamber, a diode laser module, a ground glass diffuser and a digital sensor for recording of laser speckle patterns. The device was found to have high resolution and sensitivity.

Holographic pixel super-resolution in portable lensless on-chip microscopy using a fiber-optic array.

PubMed

Bishara, Waheb; Sikora, Uzair; Mudanyali, Onur; Su, Ting-Wei; Yaglidere, Oguzhan; Luckhart, Shirley; Ozcan, Aydogan

2011-04-07

We report a portable lensless on-chip microscope that can achieve <1 µm resolution over a wide field-of-view of ∼ 24 mm(2) without the use of any mechanical scanning. This compact on-chip microscope weighs ∼ 95 g and is based on partially coherent digital in-line holography. Multiple fiber-optic waveguides are butt-coupled to light emitting diodes, which are controlled by a low-cost micro-controller to sequentially illuminate the sample. The resulting lensfree holograms are then captured by a digital sensor-array and are rapidly processed using a pixel super-resolution algorithm to generate much higher resolution holographic images (both phase and amplitude) of the objects. This wide-field and high-resolution on-chip microscope, being compact and light-weight, would be important for global health problems such as diagnosis of infectious diseases in remote locations. Toward this end, we validate the performance of this field-portable microscope by imaging human malaria parasites (Plasmodium falciparum) in thin blood smears. Our results constitute the first-time that a lensfree on-chip microscope has successfully imaged malaria parasites.

Wireless, Room Temperature Volatile Organic Compound Sensor Based on Polypyrrole Nanoparticle Immobilized Ultrahigh Frequency Radio Frequency Identification Tag.

PubMed

Jun, Jaemoon; Oh, Jungkyun; Shin, Dong Hoon; Kim, Sung Gun; Lee, Jun Seop; Kim, Wooyoung; Jang, Jyongsik

2016-12-07

Due to rapid advances in technology which have contributed to the development of portable equipment, highly sensitive and selective sensor technology is in demand. In particular, many approaches to the modification of wireless sensor systems have been studied. Wireless systems have many advantages, including unobtrusive installation, high nodal densities, low cost, and potential commercial applications. In this study, we fabricated radio frequency identification (RFID)-based wireless sensor systems using carboxyl group functionalized polypyrrole (C-PPy) nanoparticles (NPs). The C-PPy NPs were synthesized via chemical oxidation copolymerization, and then their electrical and chemical properties were characterized by a variety of methods. The sensor system was composed of an RFID reader antenna and a sensor tag made from a commercially available ultrahigh frequency RFID tag coated with C-PPy NPs. The C-PPy NPs were covalently bonded to the tag to form a passive sensor. This type of sensor can be produced at a very low cost and exhibits ultrahigh sensitivity to ammonia, detecting concentrations as low as 0.1 ppm. These sensors operated wirelessly and maintained their sensing performance as they were deformed by bending and twisting. Due to their flexibility, these sensors may be used in wearable technologies for sensing gases.

Economic and organizational sustainability of a negative-pressure portable device for the prevention of surgical-site complications

PubMed Central

Foglia, Emanuela; Ferrario, Lucrezia; Garagiola, Elisabetta; Signoriello, Giuseppe; Pellino, Gianluca; Croce, Davide; Canonico, Silvestro

2017-01-01

Purpose Surgical-site complications (SSCs) affect patients’ clinical pathway, prolonging their hospitalization and incrementing their management costs. The present study aimed to assess the economic and organizational implications of a portable device for negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) implementation, compared with the administration of pharmacological therapies alone for preventing surgical complications in patients undergoing general, cardiac, obstetrical–gynecological, or orthopedic surgical procedures. Patients and methods A total of 8,566 hospital procedures, related to the year 2015 from one hospital, were evaluated considering infection risk index, occurrence rates of SSCs, drug therapies, and surgical, diagnostic, and specialist procedures and hematological exams. Activity-based costing and budget impact analyses were implemented for the economic assessment. Results Patients developing an SSC absorbed i) 64.27% more economic resources considering the length of stay (€ 8,269±2,096 versus € 5,034±2,901, p<0.05) and ii) 42.43% more economic resources related to hematological and diagnostic procedures (€ 639±117 versus € 449±72, p<0.05). If the innovative device had been used over the 12-month time period, it would have decreased the risk of developing SSCs; the hospital would have realized an average reduction in health care expenditure equal to −0.69% (−€ 483,787.92) and an organizational saving in terms of length of stay equal to −1.10% (−898 days), thus allowing 95 additional procedures. Conclusion The implementation of a portable device for NPWT would represent an effective and sustainable strategy for reducing the management costs of patients. Economic and organizational savings could be reinvested, thus i) treating a wider population and ii) reducing waiting lists, with a higher effectiveness in terms of a decrease in complications. PMID:28652788

The Development of a Rapid Prototyping Environment

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-12-01

constraints is a very complex, time- consuming and costly took. This situation can be iaproved by the use of adequate development methods and powerful support...was an essential factor in our decision . The previous development of CAPS tools utilized and assuumed the availa- bility of a Sun Workstation. There...the development of a production * 23 sys(tCm. An early decision was mIade to accept dependence upon the best locally avail- able resources. Portability

Hand-portable liquid chromatographic instrumentation.

PubMed

Sharma, Sonika; Tolley, Luke T; Tolley, H Dennis; Plistil, Alex; Stearns, Stanley D; Lee, Milton L

2015-11-20

Over the last four decades, liquid chromatography (LC) has experienced an evolution to smaller columns and particles, new stationary phases and low flow rate instrumentation. However, the development of person-portable LC has not followed, mainly due to difficulties encountered in miniaturizing pumps and detectors, and in reducing solvent consumption. The recent introduction of small, non-splitting pumping systems and UV-absorption detectors for use with capillary columns has finally provided miniaturized instrumentation suitable for high-performance hand-portable LC. Fully integrated microfabricated LC still remains a significant challenge. Ion chromatography (IC) has been successfully miniaturized and applied for field analysis; however, applications are mostly limited to inorganic and small organic ions. This review covers advancements that make possible more rapid expansion of portable forms of LC and IC. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Label-free and non-contact optical biosensing of glucose with quantum dots.

PubMed

Khan, Saara A; Smith, Gennifer T; Seo, Felix; Ellerbee, Audrey K

2015-02-15

We present a label-free, optical sensor for biomedical applications based on changes in the visible photoluminescence (PL) of quantum dots in a thin polymer film. Using glucose as the target molecule, the screening of UV excitation due to pre-absorption by the product of an enzymatic assay leads to quenching of the PL of quantum dots (QDs) in a non-contact scheme. The irradiance changes in QD PL indicate quantitatively the level of glucose present. The non-contact nature of the assay prevents surface degradation of the QDs, which yields an efficient, waste-free, cost-effective, portable, and sustainable biosensor with attractive market features. The limit of detection of the demonstrated biosensor is ~3.5 µm, which is competitive with existing contact-based bioassays. In addition, the biosensor operates over the entire clinically relevant range of glucose concentrations of biological fluids including urine and whole blood. The comparable results achieved across a range of cost-affordable detectors, including a spectrophotometer, portable spectrometer, and iPhone camera, suggest that label-free and visible quantification of glucose with QD films can be applied to low-cost, point-of-care biomedical sensing as well as scientific applications in the laboratory for characterizing glucose or other analytes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Discharge of thoracic patients on portable digital suction: Is it cost-effective?

PubMed

Southey, Dawn; Pullinger, Diane; Loggos, Spiros; Kumari, Nelam; Lengyel, Emma; Morgan, Ian; Yiu, Patrick; Nandi, Jayanta; Luckraz, Heyman

2015-09-01

A portable suction drainage device for patients undergoing thoracic surgical procedures was introduced into our service in January 2010. Patients who met strict discharge criteria were allowed to continue their treatment at home with the device. They were monitored in a designated follow-up clinic. Data were collected to identify the impact of this service in relation to the duration of follow-up required, bed-days saved, and potential cost/benefits. All patients who underwent a thoracic procedure from March 2012 to April 2014 and required suction postoperatively for air leak were included in the study. Patients were identified as suitable according to the discharge criteria. Data regarding patient demographics were collected prospectively on the thoracic database, and data on the drainage device were logged in a specific data sheet. Visits to the follow-up clinic were also recorded. During the study period, 50 patients stayed a total 1125 days on the portable suction system. Twenty were discharged home, equating to 772 bed-days saved (GBP 270,000 cost-saving). Clinic attendance totalled 162 visits (GBP 24,300 cost reimbursement for attendance). Six (30%) patients were readmitted on 9 occasions due to device malfunction or inability to cope at home. Careful identification of patients suitable for discharge with a portable suction device achieved a significant cost-saving and freed hospital beds, thus allowing increased surgical activity. Patients were also able to be cared for within their home environment and maintain their quality of life. © The Author(s) 2015.

SERS-based pesticide detection by using nanofinger sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Ansoon; Barcelo, Steven J.; Li, Zhiyong

2015-01-01

Simple, sensitive, and rapid detection of trace levels of extensively used and highly toxic pesticides are in urgent demand for public health. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)-based sensor was designed to achieve ultrasensitive and simple pesticide sensing. We developed a portable sensor system composed of high performance and reliable gold nanofinger sensor strips and a custom-built portable Raman spectrometer. Compared to the general procedure and previously reported studies that are limited to laboratory settings, our analytical method is simple, sensitive, rapid, and cost-effective. Based on the SERS results, the chemical interaction of two pesticides, chlorpyrifos (CPF) and thiabendazole (TBZ), with gold nanofingers was studied to determine a fingerprint for each pesticide. The portable SERS-sensor system was successfully demonstrated to detect CPF and TBZ pesticides within 15 min with a detection limit of 35 ppt in drinking water and 7 ppb on apple skin, respectively.

Low cost, high performance, self-aligning miniature optical systems

PubMed Central

Kester, Robert T.; Christenson, Todd; Kortum, Rebecca Richards; Tkaczyk, Tomasz S.

2009-01-01

The most expensive aspects in producing high quality miniature optical systems are the component costs and long assembly process. A new approach for fabricating these systems that reduces both aspects through the implementation of self-aligning LIGA (German acronym for lithographie, galvanoformung, abformung, or x-ray lithography, electroplating, and molding) optomechanics with high volume plastic injection molded and off-the-shelf glass optics is presented. This zero alignment strategy has been incorporated into a miniature high numerical aperture (NA = 1.0W) microscope objective for a fiber confocal reflectance microscope. Tight alignment tolerances of less than 10 μm are maintained for all components that reside inside of a small 9 gauge diameter hypodermic tubing. A prototype system has been tested using the slanted edge modulation transfer function technique and demonstrated to have a Strehl ratio of 0.71. This universal technology is now being developed for smaller, needle-sized imaging systems and other portable point-of-care diagnostic instruments. PMID:19543344

From Sour Grapes to Low-Hanging Fruit: A Case Study Demonstrating a Practical Strategy for Natural Language Processing Portability.

PubMed

Johnson, Stephen B; Adekkanattu, Prakash; Campion, Thomas R; Flory, James; Pathak, Jyotishman; Patterson, Olga V; DuVall, Scott L; Major, Vincent; Aphinyanaphongs, Yindalon

2018-01-01

Natural Language Processing (NLP) holds potential for patient care and clinical research, but a gap exists between promise and reality. While some studies have demonstrated portability of NLP systems across multiple sites, challenges remain. Strategies to mitigate these challenges can strive for complex NLP problems using advanced methods (hard-to-reach fruit), or focus on simple NLP problems using practical methods (low-hanging fruit). This paper investigates a practical strategy for NLP portability using extraction of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) as a use case. We used a tool developed at the Department of Veterans Affair (VA) to extract the LVEF values from free-text echocardiograms in the MIMIC-III database. The approach showed an accuracy of 98.4%, sensitivity of 99.4%, a positive predictive value of 98.7%, and F-score of 99.0%. This experience, in which a simple NLP solution proved highly portable with excellent performance, illustrates the point that simple NLP applications may be easier to disseminate and adapt, and in the short term may prove more useful, than complex applications.

Triboelectric-generator-driven pulse electrodeposition for micropatterning.

PubMed

Zhu, Guang; Pan, Caofeng; Guo, Wenxi; Chen, Chih-Yen; Zhou, Yusheng; Yu, Ruomeng; Wang, Zhong Lin

2012-09-12

By converting ambient energy into electricity, energy harvesting is capable of at least offsetting, or even replacing, the reliance of small portable electronics on traditional power supplies, such as batteries. Here we demonstrate a novel and simple generator with extremely low cost for efficiently harvesting mechanical energy that is typically present in the form of vibrations and random displacements/deformation. Owing to the coupling of contact charging and electrostatic induction, electric generation was achieved with a cycled process of contact and separation between two polymer films. A detailed theory is developed for understanding the proposed mechanism. The instantaneous electric power density reached as high as 31.2 mW/cm(3) at a maximum open circuit voltage of 110 V. Furthermore, the generator was successfully used without electric storage as a direct power source for pulse electrodeposition (PED) of micro/nanocrystalline silver structure. The cathodic current efficiency reached up to 86.6%. Not only does this work present a new type of generator that is featured by simple fabrication, large electric output, excellent robustness, and extremely low cost, but also extends the application of energy-harvesting technology to the field of electrochemistry with further utilizations including, but not limited to, pollutant degradation, corrosion protection, and water splitting.

Portable and wide-range solid-state transmission densitometer for quality control in film radiography

PubMed Central

Aramburo, Javier Morales; Gonzalez, Sigifredo Solano; Toledo, Jorge Toledo

2010-01-01

In biology, materials science, radiography quality control or film dosimetry in radiotherapy, a transmission densitometer is useful for measurements of optical density. The design proposed here is oriented to quality control in radiographic films. The instrument described here utilizes low-cost solid-state devices and is easy to construct. The use of 1-watt white light-emitting diode in this densitometer enables low power consumption and a cold light source. Moreover, the instrument does not need a reference light, which results in decreasing the number of parts and reducing the overall size of the apparatus. PMID:20927222

Fast, cheap and in control: spectral imaging with handheld devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gooding, Edward A.; Deutsch, Erik R.; Huehnerhoff, Joseph; Hajian, Arsen R.

2017-05-01

Remote sensing has moved out of the laboratory and into the real world. Instruments using reflection or Raman imaging modalities become faster, cheaper and more powerful annually. Enabling technologies include virtual slit spectrometer design, high power multimode diode lasers, fast open-loop scanning systems, low-noise IR-sensitive array detectors and low-cost computers with touchscreen interfaces. High-volume manufacturing assembles these components into inexpensive portable or handheld devices that make possible sophisticated decision-making based on robust data analytics. Examples include threat, hazmat and narcotics detection; remote gas sensing; biophotonic screening; environmental remediation and a host of other applications.

Portable Bladder Ultrasound

PubMed Central

2006-01-01

Executive Summary Objective The aim of this review was to assess the clinical utility of portable bladder ultrasound. Clinical Need: Target Population and Condition Data from the National Population Health Survey indicate prevalence rates of urinary incontinence are 2.5% in women and 1.4 % in men in the general population. Prevalence of urinary incontinence is higher in women than men and prevalence increases with age. Identified risk factors for urinary incontinence include female gender, increasing age, urinary tract infections (UTI), poor mobility, dementia, smoking, obesity, consuming alcohol and caffeine beverages, physical activity, pregnancy, childbirth, forceps and vacuum-assisted births, episiotomy, abdominal resection for colorectal cancer, and hormone replacement therapy. For the purposes of this review, incontinence populations will be stratified into the following; the elderly, urology patients, postoperative patients, rehabilitation settings, and neurogenic bladder populations. Urinary incontinence is defined as any involuntary leakage of urine. Incontinence can be classified into diagnostic clinical types that are useful in planning evaluation and treatment. The major types of incontinence are stress (physical exertion), urge (overactive bladder), mixed (combined urge and stress urinary incontinence), reflex (neurological impairment of the central nervous system), overflow (leakage due to full bladder), continuous (urinary tract abnormalities), congenital incontinence, and transient incontinence (temporary incontinence). Postvoid residual (PVR) urine volume, which is the amount of urine in the bladder immediately after urination, represents an important component in continence assessment and bladder management to provide quantitative feedback to the patient and continence care team regarding the effectiveness of the voiding technique. Although there is no standardized definition of normal PVR urine volume, measurements greater than 100 mL to 150 mL are considered an indication for urinary retention, requiring intermittent catheterization, whereas a PVR urine volume of 100 mL to 150 mL or less is generally considered an acceptable result of bladder training. Urinary retention has been associated with poor outcomes including UTI, bladder overdistension, and higher hospital mortality rates. The standard method of determining PVR urine volumes is intermittent catheterization, which is associated with increased risk of UTI, urethral trauma and discomfort. The Technology Being Reviewed Portable bladder ultrasound products are transportable ultrasound devices that use automated technology to register bladder volume digitally, including PVR volume, and provide three-dimensional images of the bladder. The main clinical use of portable bladder ultrasound is as a diagnostic aid. Health care professionals (primarily nurses) administer the device to measure PVR volume and prevent unnecessary catheterization. An adjunctive use of the bladder ultrasound device is to visualize the placement and removal of catheters. Also, portable bladder ultrasound products may improve the diagnosis and differentiation of urological problems and their management and treatment, including the establishment of voiding schedules, study of bladder biofeedback, fewer UTIs, and monitoring of potential urinary incontinence after surgery or trauma. Review Strategy To determine the effectiveness and clinical utility of portable bladder ultrasound as reported in the published literature, the Medical Advisory Secretariat used its standard search strategy to retrieve international health technology assessments and English-language journal articles from selected databases. Nonsystematic reviews, nonhuman studies, case reports, letters, editorials, and comments were excluded. Summary of Findings Of the 4 included studies that examined the clinical utility of portable bladder ultrasound in the elderly population, all found the device to be acceptable. One study reported that the device underestimated catheterized bladder volume In patients with urology problems, 2 of the 3 studies concerning portable bladder ultrasound found the device acceptable to use. However, one study did not find the device as accurate for small PVR volume as for catheterization and another found that the device overestimated catheterized bladder volume. In the remaining study, the authors reported that when the device’s hand-held ultrasound transducers (scanheads) were aimed improperly, bladders were missed, or lateral borders of bladders were missed resulting in partial bladder volume measurements and underestimation of PVR measurements. They concluded that caution should be used in interpreting PVR volume measured by portable bladder ultrasound machines and that catheterization may be the preferred assessment modality if an accurate PVR measurement is necessary. All 3 studies with post-operative populations found portable bladder ultrasound use to be reasonably acceptable. Two studies reported that the device overestimated catheter-derived bladder volumes, one by 7% and the other by 21 mL. The third study reported the opposite, that the device underestimated catheter bladder volume by 39 mL but that the results remained acceptable In rehabilitation settings, 2 studies found portable bladder ultrasound to underestimate catheter-derived bladder volumes; yet, both authors concluded that the mean errors were within acceptable limits. In patients with neurogenic bladder problems, 2 studies found portable bladder ultrasound to be an acceptable alternative to catheterization despite the fact that it was not as accurate as catheterization for obtaining bladder volumes. Lastly, examinations concerning avoidance of negative health outcomes showed that, after use of the portable bladder ultrasound, unnecessary catheterizations and UTIs were decreased. Unnecessary catheterizations avoided ranged from 16% to 47% in the selected articles. Reductions in UTI ranged from 38% to 72%. In sum, all but one study advocated the use of portable bladder ultrasound as an alternative to catheterization. Economic Analysis An economic analysis estimating the budget-impact of BladderScan in complex continuing care facilities was completed. The analysis results indicated a $192,499 (Cdn) cost-savings per year per facility and a cost-savings of $2,887,485 (Cdn) for all 15 CCC facilities. No economic analysis was completed for long-term care and acute care facilities due to lack of data. Considerations for Policy Development Rapid diffusion of portable bladder ultrasound technology is expected. Recently, the IC5 project on improving continence care in Ontario’s complex continuing care centres piloted portable bladder ultrasound at 12 sites. Preliminary results were promising. Many physicians and health care facilities already have portable bladder ultrasound devices. However, portable bladder ultrasound devices for PVR measurement are not in use at most health care facilities in Ontario and Canada. The Verathon Corporation (Bothell, Wisconsin, United States), which patents BladderScan, is the sole licensed manufacturer of the portable bladder ultrasound in Canada. Field monopoly may influence the rising costs of portable bladder ultrasound, particularly when faced with rapid expansion of the technology. Several thousand residents of Ontario would benefit from portable bladder ultrasound. The number of residents of Ontario that would benefit from the technology is difficult to quantify, because the incidence and prevalence of incontinence are grossly under-reported. However, long-term care and complex continuing care institutions would benefit greatly from portable bladder ultrasound, as would numerous rehabilitation units, postsurgical care units, and urology clinics. The cost of the portable bladder ultrasound devices ranges from $17,698.90 to $19,565.95 (Cdn) (total purchase price per unit as quoted by the manufacturer). Additional training packages, batteries and battery chargers, software, gel pads, and yearly warranties are additional costs. Studies indicate that portable bladder ultrasound is a cost-effective technology, because it avoids costs associated with catheterization equipment, saves nursing time, and reduces catheter-related complications and UTIs. The use of portable bladder ultrasound device will affect the patient directly in terms of health outcomes. Its use avoids the trauma related to the urinary tract that catheterization inflicts, and does not result in UTIs. In addition, patients prefer it, because it preserves dignity and reduces discomfort. PMID:23074481

Portable Computer Technology (PCT) Research and Development Program Phase 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Castillo, Michael; McGuire, Kenyon; Sorgi, Alan

1995-01-01

The subject of this project report, focused on: (1) Design and development of two Advanced Portable Workstation 2 (APW 2) units. These units incorporate advanced technology features such as a low power Pentium processor, a high resolution color display, National Television Standards Committee (NTSC) video handling capabilities, a Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) interface, and Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) and ethernet interfaces. (2) Use these units to integrate and demonstrate advanced wireless network and portable video capabilities. (3) Qualification of the APW 2 systems for use in specific experiments aboard the Mir Space Station. A major objective of the PCT Phase 2 program was to help guide future choices in computing platforms and techniques for meeting National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) mission objectives. The focus being on the development of optimal configurations of computing hardware, software applications, and network technologies for use on NASA missions.

JETCAL 2000R Analyzer H337PA-603 Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E) on H-53 E/J Aircraft and H46 D/E Aircraft

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-01-28

Proposal Title PORTABLE TEST CELL - JETCAL 2000(R) Lead Proposer HOWELL INSTRUMENTS Military Customer NAVY/MARINE H53...B-4 Proposal Title PORTABLE TEST CELL - JETCAL 2000(R) Lead Proposer HOWELL INSTRUMENTS Military Customer...TEST CELL - JETCAL 2000(R) Lead Proposer HOWELL INSTRUMENTS Military Customer NAVY/MARINE H53 AIRCRAFT Baseline Costs -- DoD’s Costs When COSSI is NOT

The Cost Effectiveness of Flame Sprayed Coatings for Shipboard Corrosion Control

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-06-01

the substrate. 2. Existing condition of the surface to be painted. 3. Type of exposure. 4. Past history of the surface to be presened. 5. Practical... Psychrometer (B) Holiday Detector (Portable) (P) Wet Film Thickness Gauge (p) Dry Film Thickness Gauge (P) Air Compressor and Dryer (P) Battery Operated...34, typical. 3. Utility Requirements None 4. Estimated Cost $140 61 Y. 1. 2. 3. 4. PORTABLE ELECTRIC PSYCHROMETER Intended Use (B) To measure relative

Optical Encoding Technology for Viral Screening Panels Final Report CRADA No TC02132.0

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lenhoff, R.; Haushalter, R.

This was a collaborative effort between Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and Parallel Synthesis Technologies, Inc. (PSTI), to develop Optical Encoding Technology for Viral Screening Panels. The goal for this effort was to prepare a portable bead reader system that would enable the development of viral and bacterial screening panels which could be used for the detection of any desired set of bacteria or viruses in any location. The main objective was to determine if the combination of a bead-based, PCR suspension array technology, formulated from Parallume encoded beads and PSTI’s multiplex assay reader systemmore » (MARS), could provide advantages in terms of the number of simultaneously measured samples, portability, ruggedness, ease of use, accuracy, precision or cost as compared to the Luminexbased system developed at LLNL. The project underwent several no cost extensions however the overall goal of demonstrating the utility of this new system was achieved. As a result of the project a significant change to the type of bead PSTI used for the suspension system was implemented allowing better performance than the commercial Luminex system.« less

Basewide Engineering Evaluation-Cost Analysis for Soil Vapor Extraction. General Evaluation Document

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-09-01

Agricultural (low density) a 3.7%/ Residential Leand McFR6 Open Space (recreational) Suron ding Solid Waste Disposal Faiiy(transfer sttin Areas 12...designed, manufactured , and sold as integrated units by vendors of SVE systems. Smaller systems, such as those with total 42 GENERAL EVALUATION...the 2,000 scfm and larger capacity range, can be supplied either as portable units (e g., on multiple trailers), or manufactured on one to three skids

Towards a Modular, Robust, and Portable Sensing Platform for Biological and Point of Care Diagnostics

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-07-01

drugs at potentially very low concentrations in a variety of complex media such as saliva, blood, urine , and other bodily fluids. These handheld...flow assays, such as pregnancy tests, disease and drug abuse screens, and blood protein markers, exhibit widespread use. Recent parallel advances...gadgets have the potential to lower the cost of diagnosis and save immense amounts of time by removing the need to collect, preserve, and ship samples

Plastic welder

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buckley, J. D.; Fox, R. L.; Swain, R. J.

1980-01-01

Low-cost, self-contained, portable welder joins plastic parts by induction heating. Welder is useable in any atmosphere or in vacuum and with most types of thermoplastic; plastic components can be joined in situ. Device is applicable to aerospace industry and in automobile, furniture, and construction industries. Power requirements are easily met by battery or solar energy. In welder, toroidal inductor transfers magnetic flux through thermoplastic to screen. Heated screen causes plastic surface on either side to melt and flow into it to form joint.

Portable Magnetic Gradiometer for Real-Time Localization and Classification of Unexploded Ordnance

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-09-01

classification (DLC) of Unexploded Ordnance (UXO). The portable gradiometer processes data from triaxial fluxgate magnetometers to develop sets of...low-noise (ង pTrms/√Hz) fluxgate -type Triaxial Magnetometers (TM). Paired sets of TMs comprise magnetic gradient sensor “axes” of the array that...channels of analog B-field data. The digitizers can be locked to the Global Positioning System to provide; a) Precise sensor channel timing, and b

Woods Hole Image Processing System Software implementation; using NetCDF as a software interface for image processing

USGS Publications Warehouse

Paskevich, Valerie F.

1992-01-01

The Branch of Atlantic Marine Geology has been involved in the collection, processing and digital mosaicking of high, medium and low-resolution side-scan sonar data during the past 6 years. In the past, processing and digital mosaicking has been accomplished with a dedicated, shore-based computer system. With the need to process sidescan data in the field with increased power and reduced cost of major workstations, a need to have an image processing package on a UNIX based computer system which could be utilized in the field as well as be more generally available to Branch personnel was identified. This report describes the initial development of that package referred to as the Woods Hole Image Processing System (WHIPS). The software was developed using the Unidata NetCDF software interface to allow data to be more readily portable between different computer operating systems.

Rapid Inspection of Aerospace Structures - Is It Autonomous Yet?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bar-Cohen, Yoseph; Backes, Paul; Joffe, Benjamin

1996-01-01

The trend to increase the usage of aging aircraft added a great deal of urgency to the ongoing need for low-cost, rapid, simple-to-operate, reliable and efficient NDE methods for detection and characterization of flaws in aircraft structures. In many cases, the problem of inspection is complex due to the limitation of current technology and the need to disassemble aircraft structures and testing them in lab conditions. To overcome these limitations, reliable field inspection tools are being developed for rapid NDE of large and complex-shape structures, that can operate at harsh, hostal and remote conditions with minimum human interface. In recent years, to address the need for rapid inspection in field conditions, numerous portable scanners were developed using NDE methods, including ultrasonics, shearography, thermography. This paper is written with emphasis on ultrasonic NDE scanners, their evolution and the expected direction of growth.

Microtube strip heat exchanger

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doty, F. D.

1992-07-01

The purpose of this contract has been to explore the limits of miniaturization of heat exchangers with the goals of (1) improving the theoretical understanding of laminar heat exchangers, (2) evaluating various manufacturing difficulties, and (3) identifying major applications for the technology. A low-cost, ultra-compact heat exchanger could have an enormous impact on industry in the areas of cryocoolers and energy conversion. Compact cryocoolers based on the reverse Brayton cycle (RBC) would become practical with the availability of compact heat exchangers. Many experts believe that hardware advances in personal computer technology will rapidly slow down in four to six years unless lowcost, portable cryocoolers suitable for the desktop supercomputer can be developed. Compact refrigeration systems would permit dramatic advances in high-performance computer work stations with 'conventional' microprocessors operating at 150 K, and especially with low-cost cryocoolers below 77 K. NASA has also expressed strong interest in our MTS exchanger for space-based RBC cryocoolers for sensor cooling. We have demonstrated feasibility of higher specific conductance by a factor of five than any other work in high-temperature gas-to-gas exchangers. These laminar-flow, microtube exchangers exhibit extremely low pressure drop compared to alternative compact designs under similar conditions because of their much shorter flow length and larger total flow area for lower flow velocities. The design appears to be amenable to mass production techniques, but considerable process development remains. The reduction in materials usage and the improved heat exchanger performance promise to be of enormous significance in advanced engine designs and in cryogenics.

Miniaturized devices towards an integrated lab-on-a-chip platform for DNA diagnostics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaprou, G.; Papadakis, G.; Kokkoris, G.; Papadopoulos, V.; Kefala, I.; Papageorgiou, D.; Gizeli, E.; Tserepi, A.

2015-06-01

Microfluidics is an emerging technology enabling the development of Lab-on-a-chip (LOC) systems for clinical diagnostics, drug discovery and screening, food safety and environmental analysis. LOC systems integrate and scale down one or several laboratory functions on a single chip of a few mm2 to cm2 in size, and account for many advantages on biochemical analyses, such as low sample and reagent consumption, low cost, reduced analysis time, portability and point-of-need compatibility. Currently, available nucleic acid diagnostic tests take advantage of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) that allows exponential amplification of portions of nucleic acid sequences that can be used as indicators for the identification of various diseases. Here, we present a comparison between static chamber and continuous flow miniaturized PCR devices, in terms of energy consumption for devices fabricated on the same material stack, with identical sample volume and channel dimensions. The comparison is implemented by a computational study coupling heat transfer in both solid and fluid, mass conservation of species, and joule heating. Based on the conclusions of this study, we develop low-cost and fast DNA amplification devices for both PCR and isothermal amplification, and we implement them in the detection of mutations related to breast cancer. The devices are fabricated by mass production amenable technologies on printed circuit board (PCB) substrates, where copper facilitates the incorporation of on-chip microheaters, defining the thermal zones necessary for PCR or isothermal amplification methods.

Effectiveness and cost of reducing particle-related mortality with particle filtration

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fisk, W. J.; Chan, W. R.

This study evaluates the mortality-related benefits and costs of improvements in particle filtration in U.S. homes and commercial buildings based on models with empirical inputs. The models account for time spent in various environments as well as activity levels and associated breathing rates. The scenarios evaluated include improvements in filter efficiencies in both forced-air heating and cooling systems of homes and heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems of workplaces as well as use of portable air cleaners in homes. The predicted reductions in mortality range from approximately 0.25 to 2.4 per 10 000 population. The largest reductions in mortality were frommore » interventions with continuously operating portable air cleaners in homes because, given our scenarios, these portable air cleaners with HEPA filters most reduced particle exposures. For some interventions, predicted annual mortality-related economic benefits exceed $1000 per person. Economic benefits always exceed costs with benefit-to-cost ratios ranging from approximately 3.9 to 133. In conclusion, restricting interventions to homes of the elderly further increases the mortality reductions per unit population and the benefit-to-cost ratios.« less

Hydrazine Detection with a Tunable Diode Laser Spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Houseman, John; Webster, C. R.; May, R. D.; Anderson, M. S.; Margolis, J. S.; Jackson, Julie R.; Brown, Pamela R.

1999-01-01

Several instruments have been developed to measure low concentrations of hydrazine but none completely meet the sensitivity requirements while satisfying additional criteria such as quick response, stable calibration, interference free operation, online operation, reasonable cost, etc. A brief review is presented of the current technology including the electrochemical cell, the ion mobility spectrometer, the mass spectrometer, and the gas chromatograph. A review of the advantages and disadvantages of these instruments are presented here. The review also includes commercially unavailable technology such as the electronic nose and the Tunable Diode Laser (TDL) IR Spectrometer. It was found that the TDL could meet the majority of these criteria including fast response, minimum maintenance, portability, and reasonable cost. An experiment was conducted to demonstrate the feasibility of such a system using an existing (non-portable) instrument. A lead-salt tunable diode laser, cooled to 85 degrees Kelvin was used to record direct absorption and second-derivative spectra of Hydrazine at several pressures to study the sensitivity to low levels of Hydrazine. Spectra of NH3 and CO2 were used for wavelength identification of the scanned region. With a pathlength of 80 m, detection sensitivities of about 1 ppb were achieved for hydrazine in dry nitrogen at a cell pressure of 100 mbar. For spectroscopic detection of Hydrazine, spectral regions including strong Ammonia or Carbon Dioxide lines must be avoided. Strong Hydrazine absorption features were identified at 940/cm showing minimal contribution from Ammonia interferences as suitable candidates for Hydrazine gas detection. For the studies reported here, the particular laser diode could only cover the narrow regions near 962/cm and 965/cm where strong Ammonia interferences were expected. However, the high resolution (0.001/cm) of the TDL spectrometer allowed individual lines of Hydrazine to be identified away from interferences from either Ammonia or Carbon Dioxide, especially at lower pressures. A Hydrazine line was identified at 961.75/cm which was free from Ammonia absorption and would be suitable to monitor hydrazine levels. This paper also shows data on the degradation of the detectivity of Hydrazine with increasing pressure. Several design options for a portable unit are presented, including designs with near IR and Quantum Cascade laser components which do not require liquid nitrogen cooling.

30 CFR 77.900 - Low- and medium-voltage circuits serving portable or mobile three-phase alternating current...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... portable or mobile three-phase alternating current equipment; circuit breakers. 77.900 Section 77.900... mobile three-phase alternating current equipment; circuit breakers. Low- and medium-voltage circuits supplying power to portable or mobile three-phase alternating current equipment shall be protected by...

Development of a portable Linux-based ECG measurement and monitoring system.

PubMed

Tan, Tan-Hsu; Chang, Ching-Su; Huang, Yung-Fa; Chen, Yung-Fu; Lee, Cheng

2011-08-01

This work presents a portable Linux-based electrocardiogram (ECG) signals measurement and monitoring system. The proposed system consists of an ECG front end and an embedded Linux platform (ELP). The ECG front end digitizes 12-lead ECG signals acquired from electrodes and then delivers them to the ELP via a universal serial bus (USB) interface for storage, signal processing, and graphic display. The proposed system can be installed anywhere (e.g., offices, homes, healthcare centers and ambulances) to allow people to self-monitor their health conditions at any time. The proposed system also enables remote diagnosis via Internet. Additionally, the system has a 7-in. interactive TFT-LCD touch screen that enables users to execute various functions, such as scaling a single-lead or multiple-lead ECG waveforms. The effectiveness of the proposed system was verified by using a commercial 12-lead ECG signal simulator and in vivo experiments. In addition to its portability, the proposed system is license-free as Linux, an open-source code, is utilized during software development. The cost-effectiveness of the system significantly enhances its practical application for personal healthcare.

The Role of Retinal Imaging and Portable Screening Devices in Tele-ophthalmology Applications for Diabetic Retinopathy Management.

PubMed

DeBuc, Delia Cabrera

2016-12-01

In the years since its introduction, retinal imaging has transformed our capability to visualize the posterior pole of the eye. Increasing practical advances in mobile technology, regular monitoring, and population screening for diabetic retinopathy management offer the opportunity for further development of cost-effective applications through remote assessment of the diabetic eye using portable retinal cameras, smart-phone-based devices and telemedicine networks. Numerous retinal imaging methods and mobile technologies in tele-ophthalmology applications have been reported for diabetic retinopathy screening and management. They provide several advantages of automation, sensitivity, specificity, portability, and miniaturization for the development of point-of-care diagnostics for eye complications in diabetes. The aim of this paper is to review the role of retinal imaging and mobile technologies in tele-ophthalmology applications for diabetic retinopathy screening and management. At large, although improvements in current technology and telemedicine services are still needed, telemedicine has demonstrated to be a worthy tool to support health caregivers in the effective management and prevention of diabetes and its complications.

Point-of-care testing in the early diagnosis of acute pesticide intoxication: The example of paraquat.

PubMed

Wei, Ting-Yen; Yen, Tzung-Hai; Cheng, Chao-Min

2018-01-01

Acute pesticide intoxication is a common method of suicide globally. This article reviews current diagnostic methods and makes suggestions for future development. In the case of paraquat intoxication, it is characterized by multi-organ failure, causing substantial mortality and morbidity. Early diagnosis may save the life of a paraquat intoxication patient. Conventional paraquat intoxication diagnostic methods, such as symptom review and urine sodium dithionite assay, are time-consuming and impractical in resource-scarce areas where most intoxication cases occur. Several experimental and clinical studies have shown the potential of portable Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS), paper-based devices, and machine learning for paraquat intoxication diagnosis. Portable SERS and new SERS substrates maintain the sensitivity of SERS while being less costly and more convenient than conventional SERS. Paper-based devices provide the advantages of price and portability. Machine learning algorithms can be implemented as a mobile phone application and facilitate diagnosis in resource-limited areas. Although these methods have not yet met all features of an ideal diagnostic method, the combination and development of these methods offer much promise.

Application of EVA guidelines and design criteria. Volume 2: EVA workstation conceptual designs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brown, N. E.

1973-01-01

Several EV workstation concepts were developed and are documented. The workstation concepts were developed following a comprehensive analysis of potential EV missions, functions, and tasks as interpreted from NASA and contractor space shuttle and space station studies, mission models, and related reports. The design of a versatile, portable EVA workstation is aimed at reducing the design and development costs for each mission and aiding in the development of on-orbit serviceable payloads.

Demonstration and Validation of a Portable Raman Sensor for In-Situ Detection and Monitoring of Perchlorate (ClO 4 -)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hatzinger, Paul B.; Eres, Gyula; Gu, Baohua

Costs for environmental analysis and monitoring are increasing at a rapid rate and represent a significant percentage of the total and future remedial expenses at many U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) contaminated sites. It has been reported that about 30 to 40% of the remediation budget is usually spent on long-term monitoring (LTM), of which a large percentage represents laboratory analytical costs. Energetics such as perchlorate (ClO 4 -) are among the most frequently detected contaminants in groundwater and surface water at or near military installations due to their persistence and mobility. Currently, the standard protocol entails collecting samples inmore » the field, packaging them, and shipping them overnight to a designated laboratory for analysis. This process requires significant sample preparation and handling, and analytical results may not be available for several days to weeks. In this project, we developed and demonstrated a portable Raman sensor based on surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technology to detect ClO 4 - in contaminated water. We summarize major accomplishments as follows: • A SERS sensor based on elevated gold (Au) nano-ellipse dimer architectures was designed and developed for ClO 4 - with a detection limit of ~10 -6 M (or 100 μg/L); The performance of these sensors was evaluated and optimized through variation of their geometric characteristics (i.e., dimer aspect ratio, dimer separation, etc.). • Large-scale commercial production of SERS substrate sensors via nanoimprinting by Nanova Inc. and Nanoimprint lithography (NIL) technology was successfully demonstrated. This is a substantial step forward toward the commercialization of the SERS sensors and may potentially lead to significantly reduced fabrication costs of SERS substrates. • Commercially produced SERS sensors were demonstrated to detect ClO 4 - at levels above 10 -6 M using a portable Raman analyzer. The performance of the commercial SERS sensors for ClO 4 - detection in the presence and absence of interferences was determined for a series of standard solutions. Sulfate (SO 4 2-) was found to exhibit the greatest interference for the anions tested, which included Cl-, NO 3 -, and SO 4 2-. • Field demonstration of the portable Raman sensor with commercially produced SERS substrates was completed at two Department of Defense (DoD) sites; twice at the Indian Head Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head, MD, and once at Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, AL. Multiple wells were sampled at both DoD sites, where a standard addition method was employed using the sensor to determine the ClO 4 -4 - and possibly other energetics that are both important for environmental monitoring and of interest for national security. However, we point out that SERS technology is also prone to interferences due to its sensitivity and responses to other ionic species, such as NO 3 -, SO 4 2-, and dissolved organics or co-contaminants present in the groundwater, which could potentially mask the SERS signal of the target analyte (i.e., ClO 4 -). As such, SERS analysis was subject to significant variations (e.g., ±20% or more), and its detection limit for ClO 4 --8 M) and was substantially higher than what we anticipated from laboratory studies. However, despite these complications, the portable Raman sensor developed in this project could be used as a rapid screening tool for ClO 4 - at concentrations above 10 -6 M. Future studies are warranted to further develop the technology and to optimize its performance, and eventually to bring the technology to the market. With additional development and demonstration, the sensor has the potential to reduce analytical costs by eliminating shipping and typical costs associated with laboratory analysis. A cost savings of 30–45% may be realized during a typical sampling event and, more importantly, the technology could allow rapid turn-around of information to decision makers for site characterization and remediation.« less

SPR based immunosensor for detection of Legionella pneumophila in water samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Enrico, De Lorenzis; Manera, Maria G.; Montagna, Giovanni; Cimaglia, Fabio; Chiesa, Maurizio; Poltronieri, Palmiro; Santino, Angelo; Rella, Roberto

2013-05-01

Detection of legionellae by water sampling is an important factor in epidemiological investigations of Legionnaires' disease and its prevention. To avoid labor-intensive problems with conventional methods, an alternative, highly sensitive and simple method is proposed for detecting L. pneumophila in aqueous samples. A compact Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) instrumentation prototype, provided with proper microfluidics tools, is built. The developed immunosensor is capable of dynamically following the binding between antigens and the corresponding antibody molecules immobilized on the SPR sensor surface. A proper immobilization strategy is used in this work that makes use of an important efficient step aimed at the orientation of antibodies onto the sensor surface. The feasibility of the integration of SPR-based biosensing setups with microfluidic technologies, resulting in a low-cost and portable biosensor is demonstrated.

Hand-held spectrophotometer design for textile fabrics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Böcekçi, Veysel Gökhan; Yıldız, Kazım

2017-09-01

In this study, a hand-held spectrophotometer was designed by taking advantage of the developments in modern optoelectronic technology. Spectrophotometer devices are used to determine the color information from the optic properties of the materials. As an alternative to a desktop spectrophotometer device we have implemented, it is the first prototype, low cost and portable. The prototype model designed for the textile industry can detect the color tone of any fabric. The prototype model consists of optic sensor, processor, display floors. According to the color applied on the optic sensor, it produces special frequency information on its output at that color value. In Arduino type processor, the frequency information is evaluated by the program we have written and the color tone information between 0-255 ton is decided and displayed on the screen.

A small, portable, battery-powered brain-computer interface system for motor rehabilitation.

PubMed

McCrimmon, Colin M; Ming Wang; Silva Lopes, Lucas; Wang, Po T; Karimi-Bidhendi, Alireza; Liu, Charles Y; Heydari, Payam; Nenadic, Zoran; Do, An H

2016-08-01

Motor rehabilitation using brain-computer interface (BCI) systems may facilitate functional recovery in individuals after stroke or spinal cord injury. Nevertheless, these systems are typically ill-suited for widespread adoption due to their size, cost, and complexity. In this paper, a small, portable, and extremely cost-efficient (<;$200) BCI system has been developed using a custom electroencephalographic (EEG) amplifier array, and a commercial microcontroller and touchscreen. The system's performance was tested using a movement-related BCI task in 3 able-bodied subjects with minimal previous BCI experience. Specifically, subjects were instructed to alternate between relaxing and dorsiflexing their right foot, while their EEG was acquired and analyzed in real-time by the BCI system to decode their underlying movement state. The EEG signals acquired by the custom amplifier array were similar to those acquired by a commercial amplifier (maximum correlation coefficient ρ=0.85). During real-time BCI operation, the average correlation between instructional cues and decoded BCI states across all subjects (ρ=0.70) was comparable to that of full-size BCI systems. Small, portable, and inexpensive BCI systems such as the one reported here may promote a widespread adoption of BCI-based movement rehabilitation devices in stroke and spinal cord injury populations.

International Image Concordance Study to Compare a Point of Care Tampon Colposcope to a Standard-of-Care Colposcope

PubMed Central

Mueller, Jenna L.; Asma, Elizabeth; Lam, Christopher T.; Krieger, Marlee S.; Gallagher, Jennifer E.; Erkanli, Alaattin; Hariprasad, Roopa; Malliga, J.S.; Muasher, Lisa C.; Mchome, Bariki; Oneko, Olola; Taylor, Peyton; Venegas, Gino; Wanyoro, Anthony; Mehrotra, Ravi; Schmitt, John W.; Ramanujam, Nimmi

2017-01-01

Objective Barriers to cervical cancer screening in low resource settings include lack of accessible high quality services, high cost, and the need for multiple visits. To address these challenges, we developed a low cost intra-vaginal optical cervical imaging device, the Point of Care Tampon (POCkeT) colposcope, and evaluated whether its performance is comparable to a standard-of-care colposcope. Methods There were two protocols, which included 44 and 18 patients respectively. For the first protocol, white light cervical images were collected in vivo, blinded by device, and sent electronically to 8 physicians from high, middle and low income countries. For the second protocol, green light images were also collected and sent electronically to the highest performing physician from the first protocol who has experience in both a high and low income country. For each image, physicians completed a survey assessing cervix characteristics and severity of precancerous lesions. Corresponding pathology was obtained for all image pairs. Results For the first protocol, average percent agreement between devices was 70% across all physicians. POCkeT and standard-of-care colposcope images had 37% and 51% percent agreement respectively with pathology for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs). Investigation of HSIL POCkeT images revealed decreased visibility of vascularization and lack of contrast in lesion margins. After changes were made for the second protocol, the two devices achieved similar agreement to pathology for HSIL lesions (55%). Conclusions Based on the exploratory study, physician interpretation of cervix images acquired using a portable, low cost, POCkeT colposcope was comparable to a standard-of-care colposcope. PMID:28263237

Biosensor Regeneration: A Review of Common Techniques and Outcomes.

PubMed

Goode, J A; Rushworth, J V H; Millner, P A

2015-06-16

Biosensors are ideally portable, low-cost tools for the rapid detection of pathogens, proteins, and other analytes. The global biosensor market is currently worth over 10 billion dollars annually and is a burgeoning field of interdisciplinary research that is hailed as a potential revolution in consumer, healthcare, and industrial testing. A key barrier to the widespread adoption of biosensors, however, is their cost. Although many systems have been validated in the laboratory setting and biosensors for a range of analytes are proven at the concept level, many have yet to make a strong commercial case for their acceptance. Though it is true with the development of cheaper electrodes, circuits, and components that there is a downward pressure on costs, there is also an emerging trend toward the development of multianalyte biosensors that is pushing in the other direction. One way to reduce the cost that is suitable for certain systems is to enable their reuse, thus reducing the cost per test. Regenerating biosensors is a technique that can often be used in conjunction with existing systems in order to reduce costs and accelerate the commercialization process. This article discusses the merits and drawbacks of regeneration schemes that have been proven in various biosensor systems and indicates parameters for successful regeneration based on a systematic review of the literature. It also outlines some of the difficulties encountered when considering the role of regeneration at the point of use. A brief meta-analysis has been included in this review to develop a working definition for biosensor regeneration, and using this analysis only ∼60% of the reported studies analyzed were deemed a success. This highlights the variation within the field and the need to normalize regeneration as a standard process across the field by establishing a consensus term.

A High-Sensitivity Potentiometric 65-nm CMOS ISFET Sensor for Rapid E. coli Screening.

PubMed

Jiang, Yu; Liu, Xu; Dang, Tran Chien; Huang, Xiwei; Feng, Hao; Zhang, Qing; Yu, Hao

2018-04-01

Foodborne bacteria, inducing outbreaks of infection or poisoning, have posed great threats to food safety. Potentiometric sensors can identify bacteria levels in food by measuring medium's pH changes. However, most of these sensors face the limitation of low sensitivity and high cost. In this paper, we developed a high-sensitivity ion-sensitive field-effect transistor sensor. It is small sized, cost-efficient, and can be massively fabricated in a standard 65-nm complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor process. A subthreshold pH-to-time-to-voltage conversion scheme was proposed to improve the sensitivity. Furthermore, design parameters, such as chemical sensing area, transistor size, and discharging time, were optimized to enhance the performance. The intrinsic sensitivity of passivation membrane was calculated as 33.2 mV/pH. It was amplified to 123.8 mV/pH with a 0.01-pH resolution, which greatly exceeded 6.3 mV/pH observed in a traditional source-follower based readout structure. The sensing system was applied to Escherichia coli (E. coli) detection with densities ranging from 14 to 140 cfu/mL. Compared to the conventional direct plate counting method (24 h), more efficient sixfold smaller screening time (4 h) was achieved to differentiate samples' E. coli levels. The demonstrated portable, time-saving, and low-cost prescreen system has great potential for food safety detection.

Small-size biofuel cell on paper.

PubMed

Zhang, Lingling; Zhou, Ming; Wen, Dan; Bai, Lu; Lou, Baohua; Dong, Shaojun

2012-05-15

In this work, we demonstrated a novel paper-based mediator-less and compartment-less biofuel cell (BFC) with small size (1.5 cm × 1.5 cm). Ionic liquid functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs-IL) nanocomposite was used as support for both stably confining the anodic biocatalyst (i.e., NAD(+)-dependent glucose dehydrogenase, GDH) for glucose electrooxidation and for facilitating direct electrochemistry of the cathodic biocatalyst (i.e., bilirubin oxidase, BOD) for O(2) electroreduction. Such BFC provided a simple approach to fabricate low-cost and portable power devices on small-size paper, which can harvest energy from a wide range of commercial beverages containing glucose (e.g., Nescafe instant coffee, Maidong vitamin water, Watermelon fresh juice, and Minute Maid grape juice). These made the low-cost paper-based biodevice potential for broad energy applications. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

SYMPTEK homemade foam models for client education and emergency obstetric care skills training in low-resource settings.

PubMed

Deganus, Sylvia A

2009-10-01

Clinical training for health care workers using anatomical models and simulation has become an established norm. A major requirement for this approach is the availability of lifelike training models or simulators for skills practice. Manufactured sophisticated human models such as the resuscitation neonatal dolls, the Zoë gynaecologic simulator, and other pelvic models are very expensive, and are beyond the budgets of many training programs or activities in low-resource countries. Clinical training programs in many low-resource countries suffer greatly because of this cost limitation. Yet it is also in these same poor countries that the need for skilled human resources in reproductive health is greatest. The SYMPTEK homemade models were developed in response to the need for cheaper, more readily available humanistic models for training in emergency obstetric skills and also for client education. With minimal training, a variety of cheap SYMPTEK models can easily be made, by both trainees and facilitators, from high-density latex foam material commonly used for furnishings. The models are reusable, durable, portable, and easily maintained. The uses, advantages, disadvantages, and development of the SYMPTEK foam models are described in this article.

Development and bench testing of a multi-spectral imaging technology built on a smartphone platform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bolton, Frank J.; Weiser, Reuven; Kass, Alex J.; Rose, Donny; Safir, Amit; Levitz, David

2016-03-01

Cervical cancer screening presents a great challenge for clinicians across the developing world. In many countries, cervical cancer screening is done by visualization with the naked eye. Simple brightfield white light imaging with photo documentation has been shown to make a significant impact on cervical cancer care. Adoption of smartphone based cervical imaging devices is increasing across Africa. However, advanced imaging technologies such as multispectral imaging systems, are seldom deployed in low resource settings, where they are needed most. To address this challenge, the optical system of a smartphone-based mobile colposcopy imaging system was refined, integrating components required for low cost, portable multi-spectral imaging of the cervix. This paper describes the refinement of the mobile colposcope to enable it to acquire images of the cervix at multiple illumination wavelengths, including modeling and laboratory testing. Wavelengths were selected to enable quantifying the main absorbers in tissue (oxyand deoxy-hemoglobin, and water), as well as scattering parameters that describe the size distribution of scatterers. The necessary hardware and software modifications are reviewed. Initial testing suggests the multi-spectral mobile device holds promise for use in low-resource settings.

Compact, diode-pumped, solid-state lasers for next generation defence and security sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silver, M.; Lee, S. T.; Borthwick, A.; McRae, I.; Jackson, D.; Alexander, W.

2015-06-01

Low-cost semiconductor laser diode pump sources have made a dramatic impact in sectors such as advanced manufacturing. They are now disrupting other sectors, such as defence and security (D&S), where Thales UK is a manufacturer of sensor systems for application on land, sea, air and man portable. In this talk, we will first give an overview of the market trends and challenges in the D&S sector. Then we will illustrate how low cost pump diodes are enabling new directions in D&S sensors, by describing two diode pumped, solid- state laser products currently under development at Thales UK. The first is a new generation of Laser Target Designators (LTD) that are used to identify targets for the secure guiding of munitions. Current systems are bulky, expensive and require large battery packs to operate. The advent of low cost diode technology, merged with our novel solid-state laser design, has created a designator that will be the smallest, lowest cost, STANAG compatible laser designator on the market. The LTD delivers greater that 50mJ per pulse up to 20Hz, and has compact dimensions of 125×70×55mm. Secondly, we describe an ultra-compact, eye-safe, solid-state laser rangefinder (LRF) with reduced size, weight and power consumption compared to existing products. The LRF measures 100×55×34mm, weighs 200g, and can range to greater than 10km with a single laser shot and at a reprate of 1Hz. This also leverages off advances in laser pump diodes, but also utilises low cost, high reliability, packaging technology commonly found in the telecoms sector. As is common in the D&S sector, the products are designed to work in extreme environments, such as wide temperature range (-40 to +71°C) and high levels of shock and vibration. These disruptive products enable next- generation laser sensors such as rangefinders, target designators and active illuminated imagers.

Portable brine evaporator unit, process, and system

DOEpatents

Hart, Paul John; Miller, Bruce G.; Wincek, Ronald T.; Decker, Glenn E.; Johnson, David K.

2009-04-07

The present invention discloses a comprehensive, efficient, and cost effective portable evaporator unit, method, and system for the treatment of brine. The evaporator unit, method, and system require a pretreatment process that removes heavy metals, crude oil, and other contaminates in preparation for the evaporator unit. The pretreatment and the evaporator unit, method, and system process metals and brine at the site where they are generated (the well site). Thus, saving significant money to producers who can avoid present and future increases in transportation costs.

Portable Nitric Oxide (NO) Generator Based on Electrochemical Reduction of Nitrite for Potential Applications in Inhaled NO Therapy and Cardiopulmonary Bypass Surgery.

PubMed

Qin, Yu; Zajda, Joanna; Brisbois, Elizabeth J; Ren, Hang; Toomasian, John M; Major, Terry C; Rojas-Pena, Alvaro; Carr, Benjamin; Johnson, Thomas; Haft, Jonathan W; Bartlett, Robert H; Hunt, Andrew P; Lehnert, Nicolai; Meyerhoff, Mark E

2017-11-06

A new portable gas phase nitric oxide (NO) generator is described for potential applications in inhaled NO (INO) therapy and during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery. In this system, NO is produced at the surface of a large-area mesh working electrode by electrochemical reduction of nitrite ions in the presence of a soluble copper(II)-ligand electron transfer mediator complex. The NO generated is then transported into gas phase by either direct purging with nitrogen/air or via circulating the electrolyte/nitrite solution through a gas extraction silicone fiber-based membrane-dialyzer assembly. Gas phase NO concentrations can be tuned in the range of 5-1000 ppm (parts per million by volume for gaseous species), in proportion to a constant cathodic current applied between the working and counter electrodes. This new NO generation process has the advantages of rapid production times (5 min to steady-state), high Faraday NO production efficiency (ca. 93%), excellent stability, and very low cost when using air as the carrier gas for NO (in the membrane dialyzer configuration), enabling the development of potentially portable INO devices. In this initial work, the new system is examined for the effectiveness of gaseous NO to reduce the systemic inflammatory response (SIR) during CPB, where 500 ppm of NO added to the sweep gas of the oxygenator or to the cardiotomy suction air in a CPB system is shown to prevent activation of white blood cells (granulocytes and monocytes) during extracorporeal circulation with cardiotomy suction conducted with five pigs.

A novel CMOS image sensor system for quantitative loop-mediated isothermal amplification assays to detect food-borne pathogens.

PubMed

Wang, Tiantian; Kim, Sanghyo; An, Jeong Ho

2017-02-01

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is considered as one of the alternatives to the conventional PCR and it is an inexpensive portable diagnostic system with minimal power consumption. The present work describes the application of LAMP in real-time photon detection and quantitative analysis of nucleic acids integrated with a disposable complementary-metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor. This novel system works as an amplification-coupled detection platform, relying on a CMOS image sensor, with the aid of a computerized circuitry controller for the temperature and light sources. The CMOS image sensor captures the light which is passing through the sensor surface and converts into digital units using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). This new system monitors the real-time photon variation, caused by the color changes during amplification. Escherichia coli O157 was used as a proof-of-concept target for quantitative analysis, and compared with the results for Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enterica to confirm the efficiency of the system. The system detected various DNA concentrations of E. coli O157 in a short time (45min), with a detection limit of 10fg/μL. The low-cost, simple, and compact design, with low power consumption, represents a significant advance in the development of a portable, sensitive, user-friendly, real-time, and quantitative analytic tools for point-of-care diagnosis. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Detection and quantification of subtle changes in red blood cell density using a cell phone.

PubMed

Felton, Edward J; Velasquez, Anthony; Lu, Shulin; Murphy, Ryann O; ElKhal, Abdala; Mazor, Ofer; Gorelik, Pavel; Sharda, Anish; Ghiran, Ionita C

2016-08-16

Magnetic levitation has emerged as a technique that offers the ability to differentiate between cells with different densities. We have developed a magnetic levitation system for this purpose that distinguishes not only different cell types but also density differences in cells of the same type. This small-scale system suspends cells in a paramagnetic medium in a capillary placed between two rare earth magnets, and cells levitate to an equilibrium position determined solely by their density. Uniform reference beads of known density are used in conjunction with the cells as a means to quantify their levitation positions. In one implementation images of the levitating cells are acquired with a microscope, but here we also introduce a cell phone-based device that integrates the magnets, capillary, and a lens into a compact and portable unit that acquires images with the phone's camera. To demonstrate the effectiveness of magnetic levitation in cell density analysis we carried out levitation experiments using red blood cells with artificially altered densities, and also levitated those from donors. We observed that we can distinguish red blood cells of an anemic donor from those that are healthy. Since a plethora of disease states are characterized by changes in cell density magnetic cell levitation promises to be an effective tool in identifying and analyzing pathologic states. Furthermore, the low cost, portability, and ease of use of the cell phone-based system may potentially lead to its deployment in low-resource environments.

Human Visual System-Based Fundus Image Quality Assessment of Portable Fundus Camera Photographs.

PubMed

Wang, Shaoze; Jin, Kai; Lu, Haitong; Cheng, Chuming; Ye, Juan; Qian, Dahong

2016-04-01

Telemedicine and the medical "big data" era in ophthalmology highlight the use of non-mydriatic ocular fundus photography, which has given rise to indispensable applications of portable fundus cameras. However, in the case of portable fundus photography, non-mydriatic image quality is more vulnerable to distortions, such as uneven illumination, color distortion, blur, and low contrast. Such distortions are called generic quality distortions. This paper proposes an algorithm capable of selecting images of fair generic quality that would be especially useful to assist inexperienced individuals in collecting meaningful and interpretable data with consistency. The algorithm is based on three characteristics of the human visual system--multi-channel sensation, just noticeable blur, and the contrast sensitivity function to detect illumination and color distortion, blur, and low contrast distortion, respectively. A total of 536 retinal images, 280 from proprietary databases and 256 from public databases, were graded independently by one senior and two junior ophthalmologists, such that three partial measures of quality and generic overall quality were classified into two categories. Binary classification was implemented by the support vector machine and the decision tree, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were obtained and plotted to analyze the performance of the proposed algorithm. The experimental results revealed that the generic overall quality classification achieved a sensitivity of 87.45% at a specificity of 91.66%, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.9452, indicating the value of applying the algorithm, which is based on the human vision system, to assess the image quality of non-mydriatic photography, especially for low-cost ophthalmological telemedicine applications.

Detection of land mines by amplified fluorescence quenching of polymer films: a man-portable chemical sniffer for detection of ultratrace concentrations of explosives emanating from land mines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

la Grone, Marcus J.; Cumming, Colin J.; Fisher, Mark E.; Fox, Michael J.; Jacob, Sheena; Reust, Dennis; Rockley, Mark G.; Towers, Eric

2000-08-01

The explosive charge within a landmine is the source for a mixture of chemical vapors that form a distinctive 'chemical signature' indicative of a landmine. The concentration of these compounds in the air over landmines is extremely low, well below the minimum detection limits of most field- portable chemical sensors. Described in this paper is a man- portable landmine detection system that has for the first time demonstrated the ability to detect landmines by direct sensing of the vapors of signature compounds in the air over landmines. The system utilizes fluorescent polymers developed by collaborators at the MIT. The sensor can detect ultra-trace concentrations of TNT vapor and other nitroaromatic compounds found in many landmine explosives. Thin films of the polymers exhibit intense fluorescence, but when exposed to vapors of nitroaromatic explosives the intensity of the light emitted from the films decreases. A single molecule of TNT binding to a receptor site quenches the fluorescence from many polymer repeat units, increasing the sensitivity by orders of magnitude. A sensor prototype has been develop that response in near real-time to low femtogram quantities of nitroaromatic explosives. The prototype is portable, lightweight, has low power consumption, is simple to operate, and is relatively inexpensive. Simultaneous field testing of the sensor and experienced canine landmine detection teams was recently completed. Although the testing was limited in scope, the performance of the senor met or exceeded that of the canines against buried landmines.

Mechanistic Challenges and Advantages of Biosensor Miniaturization into the Nanoscale.

PubMed

Soleymani, Leyla; Li, Feng

2017-04-28

Over the past few decades, there has been tremendous interest in developing biosensing systems that combine high sensitivity and specificity with rapid sample-to-answer times, portability, low-cost operation, and ease-of-use. Miniaturizing the biosensor dimensions into the nanoscale has been identified as a strategy for addressing the functional requirements of point-of-care and wearable biosensors. However, it is important to consider that decreasing the critical dimensions of biosensing elements impacts the two most important performance metrics of biosensors: limit-of-detection and response time. Miniaturization into the nanoscale enhances signal-to-noise-ratio by increasing the signal density (signal/geometric surface area) and reducing background signals. However, there is a trade-off between the enhanced signal transduction efficiency and the longer time it takes to collect target analytes on sensor surfaces due to the increase in mass transport times. By carefully considering the signal transduction mechanisms and reaction-transport kinetics governing different classes of biosensors, it is possible to develop structure-level and device-level strategies for leveraging miniaturization toward creating biosensors that combine low limit-of-detection with rapid response times.

VideoBeam portable laser communicator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mecherle, G. Stephen; Holcomb, Terry L.

1999-01-01

A VideoBeamTM portable laser communicator has been developed which provides full duplex communication links consisting of high quality analog video and stereo audio. The 3.2-pound unit resembles a binocular-type form factor and has an operational range of over two miles (clear air) with excellent jam-resistance and low probability of interception characteristics. The VideoBeamTM unit is ideally suited for numerous military scenarios, surveillance/espionage, industrial precious mineral exploration, and campus video teleconferencing applications.

Design of sparse Halbach magnet arrays for portable MRI using a genetic algorithm.

PubMed

Cooley, Clarissa Zimmerman; Haskell, Melissa W; Cauley, Stephen F; Sappo, Charlotte; Lapierre, Cristen D; Ha, Christopher G; Stockmann, Jason P; Wald, Lawrence L

2018-01-01

Permanent magnet arrays offer several attributes attractive for the development of a low-cost portable MRI scanner for brain imaging. They offer the potential for a relatively lightweight, low to mid-field system with no cryogenics, a small fringe field, and no electrical power requirements or heat dissipation needs. The cylindrical Halbach array, however, requires external shimming or mechanical adjustments to produce B 0 fields with standard MRI homogeneity levels (e.g., 0.1 ppm over FOV), particularly when constrained or truncated geometries are needed, such as a head-only magnet where the magnet length is constrained by the shoulders. For portable scanners using rotation of the magnet for spatial encoding with generalized projections, the spatial pattern of the field is important since it acts as the encoding field. In either a static or rotating magnet, it will be important to be able to optimize the field pattern of cylindrical Halbach arrays in a way that retains construction simplicity. To achieve this, we present a method for designing an optimized cylindrical Halbach magnet using the genetic algorithm to achieve either homogeneity (for standard MRI applications) or a favorable spatial encoding field pattern (for rotational spatial encoding applications). We compare the chosen designs against a standard, fully populated sparse Halbach design, and evaluate optimized spatial encoding fields using point-spread-function and image simulations. We validate the calculations by comparing to the measured field of a constructed magnet. The experimentally implemented design produced fields in good agreement with the predicted fields, and the genetic algorithm was successful in improving the chosen metrics. For the uniform target field, an order of magnitude homogeneity improvement was achieved compared to the un-optimized, fully populated design. For the rotational encoding design the resolution uniformity is improved by 95% compared to a uniformly populated design.

An Environmentally Friendly, Cost-Effective Determination of Lead in Environmental Samples Using Anodic Stripping Voltammetry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goldcamp, Michael J.; Underwood, Melinda N.; Cloud, Joshua L.; Harshman, Sean

2008-01-01

Contamination of the environment with heavy metals such as lead presents many health risks. Simple, effective, and field-portable methods for the measurement of toxic metals in environmental samples are vital tools for evaluating the risks that these contaminants pose. This article describes the use of new developments in anodic stripping…

Portable Timber Bridges as a Best Management Practice in Forest Management

Treesearch

Edward Cesa; Jeffery Bejune; Melissa Strothers

2004-01-01

Those responsible for the management of our forests and other natural resources are finding it more challenging to manage these resources. These challenges are the result of environmental concerns combined with the need to develop cost-effective operational techniques. At the same time, society's demand for wood fiber and other natural resources continues to grow...

A Simple, Low-cost, and Robust System to Measure the Volume of Hydrogen Evolved by Chemical Reactions with Aqueous Solutions

PubMed Central

Brack, Paul; Dann, Sandie; Wijayantha, K. G. Upul; Adcock, Paul; Foster, Simon

2016-01-01

There is a growing research interest in the development of portable systems which can deliver hydrogen on-demand to proton exchange membrane (PEM) hydrogen fuel cells. Researchers seeking to develop such systems require a method of measuring the generated hydrogen. Herein, we describe a simple, low-cost, and robust method to measure the hydrogen generated from the reaction of solids with aqueous solutions. The reactions are conducted in a conventional one-necked round-bottomed flask placed in a temperature controlled water bath. The hydrogen generated from the reaction in the flask is channeled through tubing into a water-filled inverted measuring cylinder. The water displaced from the measuring cylinder by the incoming gas is diverted into a beaker on a balance. The balance is connected to a computer, and the change in the mass reading of the balance over time is recorded using data collection and spreadsheet software programs. The data can then be approximately corrected for water vapor using the method described herein, and parameters such as the total hydrogen yield, the hydrogen generation rate, and the induction period can also be deduced. The size of the measuring cylinder and the resolution of the balance can be changed to adapt the setup to different hydrogen volumes and flow rates. PMID:27584581

Mechanically tunable aspheric lenses via additive manufacture of hanging elastomeric droplets for microscopic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fuh, Yiin-Kuen; Chen, Pin-Wen; Lai, Zheng-Hong

2016-07-01

Mechanically deformable lenses with dynamically tunable focal lengths have been developed in this work. The fabricated five types of aspheric polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) lenses presented here have an initial focal length of 7.0, 7.8, 9.0, 10.0 and 10.2 mm. Incorporating two modes of operation in biconvex and concave-convex configurations, the focal lengths can be tuned dynamically as 5.2-10.2, 5.5-9.9, 6.6-11.9, 6.1-13.5 and 6.6-13.5 mm respectively. Additive manufacturing was utilized to fabricate these five types of aspheric lenses (APLs) via sequential layering of PDMS materials. Complex structures with three-dimensional features and shorter focal lengths can be successfully produced by repeatedly depositing, inverting and curing controlled PDMS volume onto previously cured PDMS droplets. From our experiments, we empirically found a direct dependence of the focal length of the lenses with the amount (volume) of deposited PDMS droplets. This new mouldless, low-cost, and flexible lens fabrication method is able to transform an ordinary commercial smartphone camera into a low-cost portable microscope. A few microscopic features can be readily visualized, such as wrinkles of ladybird pupa and printed circuit board. The fabrication technique by successively applying hanging droplet and facile mechanical focal-length-tuning set-up can be easily adopted in the development of high-performance optical lenses.

Selective spectrophotometric determination of TNT using a dicyclohexylamine-based colorimetric sensor.

PubMed

Erçağ, Erol; Uzer, Ayşem; Apak, Reşat

2009-05-15

Because of the extremely heterogeneous distribution of explosives in contaminated soils, on-site colorimetric methods are efficient tools to assess the nature and extent of contamination. To meet the need for rapid and low-cost chemical sensing of explosive traces or residues in soil and post-blast debris, a colorimetric absorption-based sensor for trinitrotoluene (TNT) determination has been developed. The charge-transfer (CT) reagent (dicyclohexylamine, DCHA) is entrapped in a polyvinylchloride (PVC) polymer matrix plasticised with dioctylphtalate (DOP), and moulded into a transparent sensor membrane sliced into test strips capable of sensing TNT showing an absorption maximum at 530 nm when placed in a 1-mm spectrophotometer cell. The sensor gave a linear absorption response to 5-50 mg L(-1) TNT solutions in 30% aqueous acetone with limit of detection (LOD): 3 mg L(-1). The sensor is only affected by tetryl, but not by RDX, pentaerythritoltetranitrate (PETN), dinitrotoluene (DNT), and picric acid. The proposed method was statistically validated for TNT assay against high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using a standard sample of Comp B. The developed sensor was relatively resistant to air and water, was of low-cost and high specificity, gave a rapid and reproducible response, and was suitable for field use of TNT determination in both dry and humid soil and groundwater with a portable colorimeter.

A field portable mass spectrometer for monitoring organic vapors.

PubMed

Meier, R W

1978-03-01

A portable mass spectrometer has been designed and built under the sponsorship of the US Army for the purpose of monitoring low concentrations of specified organics in the ambient atmosphere. The goals of the development were discrimination, sensitivity, portability, simplicity of operation, economy and convenience. These objectives were met in a system consisting of a computer operated mass spectrometer with a Llewellyn membrane separator inlet system housed in two 26 x 18 x 9 inch aluminum cases with a total weight less than 150 pounds. This system has shown the capability for field detection of hundreds of specific organic vapors at the parts per billion level in the ambient and workplace environments.

A microprogrammed data acquisition system for renography.

PubMed

Imperiale, C

1983-01-01

The purpose of this project was to design an efficient, low cost, and portable system for renography suitable for clinical use. The principles involved in the renographic test, and the procedures and calculations which act on the design of our system, are given. The system consists of an Apple II Plus computer equipped with 48K memory, two disk drives with diskettes of 143K each, a thermal printer with graphic capability, the Microsoft Z80 card, and an interface which is specifically designed for renographic data acquisition.

Spread spectrum time-resolved diffuse optical measurement system for enhanced sensitivity in detecting human brain activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mehta, Kalpesh; Hasnain, Ali; Zhou, Xiaowei; Luo, Jianwen; Penney, Trevor B.; Chen, Nanguang

2017-04-01

Diffuse optical spectroscopy (DOS) and imaging methods have been widely applied to noninvasive detection of brain activity. We have designed and implemented a low cost, portable, real-time one-channel time-resolved DOS system for neuroscience studies. Phantom experiments were carried out to test the performance of the system. We further conducted preliminary human experiments and demonstrated that enhanced sensitivity in detecting neural activity in the cortex could be achieved by the use of late arriving photons.

A Low-Cost, Man-Portable, Free-Space Optics Communications Device for Ethernet Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-12-01

ix LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1. Patent for the Photophone filed by Alexander Graham Bell and Charles S. Tainter. (From Ref. [8...Tainter patented a device they called the Photophone in 1880 (Fig. 1.) By using a series of mirrors and lenses, they were able to modulate a voice...signal on to a ray of sunlight and send it to a receiver 200 meters away [8]. In the Photophone , voice sound waves were directed on to a mirror that

Solar photovoltaic reflective trough collection structure

DOEpatents

Anderson, Benjamin J.; Sweatt, William C.; Okandan, Murat; Nielson, Gregory N.

2015-11-19

A photovoltaic (PV) solar concentration structure having at least two troughs encapsulated in a rectangular parallelepiped optical plastic structure, with the troughs filled with an optical plastic material, the troughs each having a reflective internal surface and approximately parabolic geometry, and the troughs each including photovoltaic cells situated so that light impinging on the optical plastic material will be concentrated onto the photovoltaic cells. Multiple structures can be connected to provide a solar photovoltaic collection system that provides portable, efficient, low-cost electrical power.