scholarly journals Diagnostic Capabilities of a Smartphone- Based Low-Cost Microscope

2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (3) ◽  
pp. 522-525
Author(s):  
Dorina Hasselbeck ◽  
Max B. Schäfer ◽  
Kent W. Stewart ◽  
Peter P. Pott
Keyword(s):  
Low Cost ◽  
Field Of View ◽  
Parasitic Diseases ◽  
Optical Parameters ◽  
Trade Off ◽  
Resource Limited ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Diagnostic Applications ◽  
Diagnostic Capabilities

AbstractMicroscopy enables fast and effective diagnostics. However, in resource-limited regions microscopy is not accessible to everyone. Smartphone-based low-cost microscopes could be a powerful tool for diagnostic and educational purposes. In this paper, the imaging quality of a smartphone-based microscope with four different optical parameters is presented and a systematic overview of the resulting diagnostic applications is given. With the chosen configuration, aiming for a reasonable trade-off, an average resolution of 1.23 μm and a field of view of 1.12 mm2 was achieved. This enables a wide range of diagnostic applications such as the diagnosis of Malaria and other parasitic diseases.

scholarly journals Learning curve evaluation upskilling retinal imaging using smartphones

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Linus G. Jansen ◽  
Payal Shah ◽  
Bettina Wabbels ◽  
Frank G. Holz ◽  
Robert P. Finger ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Image Quality ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Field Studies ◽  
Field Of View ◽  
Retinal Images ◽  
Fundus Imaging ◽  
Resource Limited ◽  
Examination Time ◽  
Significant Difference

AbstractSmartphone-based fundus imaging (SBFI) is a low-cost approach for screening of various ophthalmic diseases and particularly suited to resource limited settings. Thus, we assessed how best to upskill alternative healthcare cadres in SBFI and whether quality of obtained images is comparable to ophthalmologists. Ophthalmic assistants and ophthalmologists received a standardized training to SBFI (Heine iC2 combined with an iPhone 6) and 10 training examinations for capturing central retinal images. Examination time, total number of images, image alignment, usable field-of-view, and image quality (sharpness/focus, reflex artifacts, contrast/illumination) were analyzed. Thirty examiners (14 ophthalmic assistants and 16 ophthalmologists) and 14 volunteer test subjects were included. Mean examination time (1st and 10th training, respectively: 2.17 ± 1.54 and 0.56 ± 0.51 min, p < .0001), usable field-of-view (92 ± 16% and 98 ± 6.0%, p = .003) and image quality in terms of sharpness/focus (p = .002) improved by the training. Examination time was significantly shorter for ophthalmologists compared to ophthalmic assistants (10th training: 0.35 ± 0.21 and 0.79 ± 0.65 min, p = .011), but there was no significant difference in usable field-of-view and image quality. This study demonstrates the high learnability of SBFI with a relatively short training and mostly comparable results across healthcare cadres. The results will aid implementing and planning further SBFI field studies.

scholarly journals Divergent excitation two photon microscopy for 3D random access mesoscale imaging at single cell resolution

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
FK Janiak ◽  
P Bartel ◽  
MR Bale ◽  
T Yoshimatsu ◽  
E Komulainen ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Single Cell ◽  
Neuronal Activity ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Random Access ◽  
Field Of View ◽  
Three Dimensions ◽  
Two Photon ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Effective Excitation

ABSTACTIn neuroscience, diffraction limited two-photon (2P) microscopy is a cornerstone technique that permits minimally invasive optical monitoring of neuronal activity. However, most conventional 2P microscopes impose significant constraints on the size of the imaging field-of-view and the specific shape of the effective excitation volume, thus limiting the scope of biological questions that can be addressed and the information obtainable. Here, employing ‘divergent beam optics’ (DBO), we present an ultra-low-cost, easily implemented and flexible solution to address these limitations, offering a several-fold expanded three-dimensional field of view that also maintains single-cell resolution. We show that this implementation increases both the space-bandwidth product and effective excitation power, and allows for straight-forward tailoring of the point-spread-function. Moreover, rapid laser-focus control via an electrically tunable lens now allows near-simultaneous imaging of remote regions separated in three dimensions and permits the bending of imaging planes to follow natural curvatures in biological structures. Crucially, our core design is readily implemented (and reversed) within a matter of hours, and fully compatible with a wide range of existing 2P customizations, making it highly suitable as a base platform for further development. We demonstrate the application of our system for imaging neuronal activity in a variety of examples in mice, zebrafish and fruit flies.

scholarly journals Efficacy of Self Myofascial Release Technique to Reduce Frequency and Severity of Noctural Leg Cramp in Older Adults

2021 ◽  
pp. 193-197
Author(s):  
Samiksha V. Sonone ◽  
Deepali Patil ◽  
Om C. Wadhokar
Keyword(s):  
Older Persons ◽  
Trigger Point ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Night Time ◽  
Prolonged Standing ◽  
Myofascial Release ◽  
Release Technique ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation

Background: Nocturnal leg cramps (NLC) are involuntary muscle contractions of the calf muscles, hamstrings, or foot muscles that occur unexpectedly, episodically, and are unpleasant. Night time cramping affects about one-third of adults. Leg cramps can strike anyone at any age, although they are more widespread and often more severe as grow older. The majority of cramps are idiopathic, and the physiological cause behind them is unknown. Muscle cramps appear to be triggered by neuromuscular structures in muscle, tendons, and nerve fibres, according to some writers. Musculoskeletal issues linked to a sedentary lifestyle, as well as job postures, prolonged standing, and the western habit of sitting rather than squatting, have been implicated of generating cramps, particularly NLC. Patients with cramps have a higher risk of peripheral vascular disease than individuals without cramps. Stretching before bedtime can help older persons lessen the frequency and severity of nocturnal leg cramps. Stretching treatments, like as Myofacial Release, can help relieve NLC. Self-Myofacial release (SMFR) is a sort of Myofacial release (MFR) that is accomplished by the person rather than a therapist, and it is usually done with the help of a tool. Self-MFR is a low-cost, easily accessible approach for people to relieve muscle and fascia pain while also maintaining flexibility. Foam rollers and roller massage are two of the most used devices for self-MFR. MFR is used to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders; it is used to treat a wide range of problems, and many types of treatment, such as trigger-point therapy and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, fall under the myofascial umbrella. Aim and Objectives: To study the main impact of Self Myofascial Release (SMFR) to decreasing the duration of pain and improving Quality of Life in patients with NLC. Methodology: In this study total 30 patient with nocturnal leg cramps will receive Self Myofascial Release technique (SMFR), it will be including exercise which will be performed for 4 weeks twice a day and each for 5-10 mins. Discussion: This study is done to find out the effectiveness of Self Myofacial release in individual with nocturnal leg cramps (NLC). Conclusion: Conclusion of the study can be made based on the effect of Self Myofascial Release technique on patient with nocturnal leg cramps. 

scholarly journals An approach of developing low cost ARM based CNC systems by controlling CAN drives

2018 ◽  
Vol 224 ◽  
pp. 01020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Georgi M. Martinov ◽  
Akram Al Khoury ◽  
Ahed Issa
Keyword(s):  
Machine Tools ◽  
High Speed ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Cnc Machine Tools ◽  
Application Layer ◽  
Cnc Machine ◽  
Servo Drive ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Quality Of Products

Nowadays, there is a big demand on using small sized CNC machine tools, which have low price tag, wide range of implementations, low manufacturing costs and can be used for educational purposes. These machines can achieve casual manufacturing routines, like milling and drilling in applications, where there is no need for high speed performances and super quality of products. In this work, we proposed a model of CNC for these machines and analysed its components and efficiency. The model consists of three main layers: CNC system (application layer), ARM based microcomputer as CAN master and controller (connecting layer) and Servo-Drive Step Motors (actuating layer).

scholarly journals Use, adoption and effectiveness of tippy-tap handwashing station in promoting hand hygiene practices in a resource-limited setting: A systematic review

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Balwani Chingatichifwe Mbakaya ◽  
Fatch W. Kalembo ◽  
Maggie Zgambo
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Enabling Technology ◽  
Eligibility Criteria ◽  
Hygiene Practices ◽  
Resource Limited ◽  
Stomach Pain ◽  
Household Members ◽  
Limited Setting

Abstract Background A low cost and simple handwashing and enabling technology such as tippy-taps may provide adequate water sources, handwashing stations and motivation for people to prioritise handwashing. This systematic review aimed to establish the use, benefits, adoption and effectiveness of enabling technology; tippy-tap handwashing station, in resource-limited settings.Methods We systematically searched for articles in the PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, AMED, CINAHL, DOAJ and Google Scholar databases using a search strategy as predefined in the protocol registered with the PROSPERO database. Data were extracted and the quality of studies was appraised by the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool.Results Twenty articles met the eligibility criteria. The use of tippy-taps for handwashing by household members or school children was reported by authors of 16 studies, and it ranged from 2.7% to 80%. The availability of tippy-taps increased handwashing and use of soap among participants. Furthermore, the majority of people who were oriented to tippy-taps or recruited to tippy-tap studies built their tippy-tap stations even after the promotional activities or programs ended. In one study, tippy-taps were found to be effective in preventing episodes of stomach pain among participants.Conclusion Tippy-tap handwashing station could help in promoting handwashing practice in resource constraint settings. Future studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of tippy-tap hand washing station on preventing water and hygiene-related infections.

scholarly journals Disposable and Low-Cost Colorimetric Sensors for Environmental Analysis

2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (22) ◽  
pp. 8331
Author(s):  
Giancarla Alberti ◽  
Camilla Zanoni ◽  
Lisa Rita Magnaghi ◽  
Raffaela Biesuz
Keyword(s):  
Environmental Analysis ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Single Shot ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages ◽  
Resource Limited ◽  
Naked Eye Detection ◽  
Colorimetric Sensors

Environmental contamination affects human health and reduces the quality of life. Therefore, the monitoring of water and air quality is important, ensuring that all areas are acquiescent with the current legislation. Colorimetric sensors deliver quick, naked-eye detection, low-cost, and adequate determination of environmental analytes. In particular, disposable sensors are cheap and easy-to-use devices for single-shot measurements. Due to increasing requests for in situ analysis or resource-limited zones, disposable sensors’ development has increased. This review provides a brief insight into low-cost and disposable colorimetric sensors currently used for environmental analysis. The advantages and disadvantages of different colorimetric devices for environmental analysis are discussed.

Measurement and Comparison of Force Effort During Friction Stir Welding in a Parallel Kinematic 5-Axis Milling Machine

2012 ◽  
Author(s):  
Arun Prasath Manogaran ◽  
Guillaume Racineux ◽  
Jean-Yves Hascoet
Keyword(s):  
Friction Stir Welding ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Milling Machine ◽  
Friction Stir ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages ◽  
Measuring Devices ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Dynamic Measuring ◽  
And Control

Friction stir welding (FSW) is so quite promising that leads it to one of the preferred joining process for a wide range of applications especially for Aluminum. FSW machines are very expensive. The objective is to develop a simple and low cost technique to measure and control the force during FSW in a milling machine. Measurement of forces during welding is a difficult task. Many dynamic measuring devices such as dynamometers are available but each have their own advantages and disadvantages. A new approach to measure force while performing weld is discussed. First, incorporation of FSW in PKM 5-axes milling machine is done. The head of the machine is modified to support higher force levels that are generated during FSW. With the help of the NC-Controller, the force values are retrieved from the axes of the machine while performing weld through actuators. Forces were also measured from load cell and compared to estimate the quality of measurement.

scholarly journals Effect of growth regulators on productivity and quality of tomato crop under Volga delta conditions

2019 ◽  
pp. 36-40
Author(s):  
M. M. Abdelkader ◽  
M. Yu. Puchkov
Keyword(s):  
Plant Growth ◽  
Growth Regulators ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
Fruit Weight ◽  
Tomato Crop ◽  
Large Numbers ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Cultivated Species

Relevance. Tomato considered a significant vegetable crop that plays a prominent role in the field of human health. At present, there are large numbers of tomato cultivars with a wide range of morphological and sensorial characteristics which determine their use. Farmers often use some chemical substances which have similar structure and activity with endogenous plant hormone called (exogenous) as a low-cost alternative to regulate plant growth and increase yield. Thus, the use of Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs) has become an important component of the agro-technical procedures for most cultivated species.Methods. This study aims to evaluate the effect of four growth regulators (Krezacin, Chitosan, Zircon and Energene) on growth, productivity and quality of two Russian tomato varieties (Moriana and Superjol) under delta Volga conditions. Each type applied three times on both cultivars (Soaking tomato seeds before sowing, spraying on plants at vegetative phase, spraying on plants at flowering phase with three replications.Results. The results showed that; combination between Energene and cultivar Moriana enhanced the most of studied characters (Germination – 83.1%, fresh weight of Arial parts – 241.9 g, dry weight – 74.4 g, Number of № flowers/plant – 51.0, № fruits /plant – 35.6, fruit set – 69.8%, plant yield – 2.44 kg, TSS – 5.1°Brix, Content of Ascorbic Acid – 25.6 mg/100 g); Interaction between “Energene x Superjol” gave the maximum value for Plant height (85.6 cm), Fruit weight (72.6 g); while “Krezacin x Moriana” registered the highest fruit dry matter (6.77%) and Acidity (0.53%); Applying Zircon on Cultivar Moriana increased number of leaves/plant (56.8) and nitrate contents (27.6 mg/kg); the maximum LAI (150.1 cm2 ) obtained from interaction between Chitosan and cultivar Superjol whereas, “Chitosan x Moriana” treatment gave the highest level of Carotenoids (4.12%). 

scholarly journals Intelligent Backlash Control System Based on Laser Scanning

2018 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 42
Author(s):  
Shengmin Zhang ◽  
Qiulian Li ◽  
Changying He
Keyword(s):  
Laser Scanning ◽  
Performance Test ◽  
Control Measure ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Large Error ◽  
Rf Transceiver ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Return Point

<p>In the traditional round-trip sports training and competition, the coach or the referee observes the pinch table to measure the athlete’s performance. Not only there is a large error, it will even lead to miscarriage of justice, staff labor intensity and efficiency. In order to solve these problems, the system uses the simple and easy way by using fingerprint identification module to collect athlete information, with low cost, wide application, easy to program the STM32F103C8T6 and ATMEL89S51 as the core control measure a wide range of detection time is short, high precision of the laser scanning athletes through the information to low power consumption, convenient and practical nRF905 RF transceiver starting point and the return point of the communication to the LED display circuit count and display, to automatically and accurately complete the athlete’s performance test. This will reduce the workload of the coach or the referee, but also improve the efficiency and quality of work.</p>

scholarly journals Deep transfer learning-based hologram classification for molecular diagnostics

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sung-Jin Kim ◽  
Chuangqi Wang ◽  
Bing Zhao ◽  
Hyungsoon Im ◽  
Jouha Min ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Transfer Learning ◽  
Point Of Care ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Field Of View ◽  
Robust Performance ◽  
Resource Limited Settings ◽  
Resource Limited ◽  
Point Of Care Diagnostics ◽  
Diffraction Patterns ◽  
Extensive Computation

ABSTRACTLens-free digital in-line holography (LDIH) is a promising microscopic tool that overcomes several drawbacks (e.g., limited field of view) of traditional lens-based microcopy. However, extensive computation is required to reconstruct object images from the complex diffraction patterns produced by LDIH, which limits LDIH utility for point-of-care applications, particularly in resource limited settings. Here, we describe a deep transfer learning (DTL) based approach to process LDIH images in the context of cellular analyses. Specifically, we captured holograms of cells labeled with molecular-specific microbeads and trained neural networks to classify these holograms without reconstruction. Using raw holograms as input, the trained networks were able to classify individual cells according to the number of cell-bound microbeads. The DTL-based approach including a VGG19 pretrained network showed robust performance even with noisy experimental data. Combined with the developed DTL approach, LDIH could be realized as a low-cost, portable tool for point-of-care diagnostics.

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