Patient information videos via QR codes: An innovative and sustainable approach in ophthalmology

BACKGROUND

We explore an innovative approach by transforming patient information leaflet (PILs) into Quick Response (QR) code linked patient information videos (PIVs) in ophthalmology. Our objectives are to assess the subjective utility of a PIV on glaucoma and analyse the use of QR codes as a delivery method.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted in Ninewells Hospital, NHS Tayside. A glaucoma PIV was created and linked to a QR code provided to 130 glaucoma patients. Pre- and post-video questionnaires evaluated the patients' perception of using a QR code and subjective improvement in their understanding of glaucoma.

RESULTS

Out of 102 responses collected, 55% of patients had no prior experience with QR codes. However, 81% of patients were able to watch the PIV. The average view duration of the video was 3:26, with 82.5% view retention. Statistically significant improvement in glaucoma knowledge was observed across all six areas questioned (p < 0.001) using a 5-point Likert scale. Overall, 70% of patients preferred PIVs over PILs, and 77% acknowledged that PIVs could be a sustainable alternative.

CONCLUSION

QR codes for delivering PIVs were well-received, with patients finding them easy to use. Our PIV on glaucoma effectively enhanced patients' understanding of the condition.

Study on the Printability of Starch-Based Films Using Ink-Jet Printing

Starch-based films are a valuable alternative to plastic materials that are based on fossil and petrochemical raw resources. In this study, corn and potato starch films with 50% glycerol as a plasticizer were developed, and the properties of films were confirmed by mechanical properties, surface free energy, surface roughness, and, finally, color and gloss analyses. Next, the films were overprinted using ink-jet printing with quick response (QR) codes, text, and pictograms. Finally, the print quality of the obtained prints was determined by optical density, color parameters, and the visual evaluation of prints. In general, corn films exhibit lower values of mechanical parameters (tensile strength, elongation at break, and Young Modulus) and water transition rate (11.1 mg·cm-2·h-1) than potato starch film (12.2 mg·cm-2·h-1), and water solubility is 18.7 ± 1.4 and 20.3 ± 1.2% for corn and potato film, respectively. The results obtained for print quality on starch-based films were very promising. The overprinted QR codes were quickly readable by a smartphone. The sharpness and the quality of the lettering are worse on potato film. At the same time, higher optical densities were measured on potato starch films. The results of this study show the strong potential of using starch films as a modern printing substrate.

Assessing the impact of providing digital product information on the health risks of alcoholic beverages to the consumer at point of sale: A pilot study

INTRODUCTION

There is an ongoing policy debate in the European Union regarding the best method of providing information to consumers on the health risks of alcohol use. One of the proposed channels is via the provision of QR codes. This study tested the usage rate of QR codes placed on point-of-sale signs in a supermarket in Barcelona, Catalonia over a 1-week period.

METHODS

Nine banners with beverage-specific health warnings in large text were prominently displayed in the alcohol section of a supermarket. Each banner provided a QR code of relatively large image size that linked to a government website providing further information on alcohol-related harms. A comparison was made between the number of visits to the website and the number of customers in the supermarket (number of unique sales receipts) in a single week.

RESULTS

Only 6 out of 7079 customers scanned the QR code during the week, corresponding to a usage rate of 0.085%, less than 1 per 1000. The usage rate was 2.6 per 1000 among those who purchased alcohol.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Despite the availability of prominently displayed QR codes, the overwhelming majority of customers did not make use of the QR codes to obtain further information on alcohol-related harms. This corroborates the results from other studies investigating customers' use of QR codes to obtain additional product information. Based on the current evidence, providing online access to information through QR codes will likely not reach a significant portion of consumers.

Medical Device Safety Training by Using Quick Response Codes and Extended Reality-Based Technologies

This article describes the results of three different study settings where the use of QR codes and XR technologies were tested for medical device training among 132 social and health care professionals. Data from three types of learning events and different contents of training indicated that the professionals considered these novel technologies both beneficial for learning and useful in their working environments for training safe use of medical devices. Based on the collected data, these technologies can be considered prospective options for medical device training.

Video Education Program for Proper use of Inhalation Devices in Elderly COPD Patients

PURPOSE

This research investigated the utility of a QR code-based video pharmaceutical education program to guide the proper use of the inhalation device in elderly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.

METHODS

The patients were recruited for this prospective study during a COPD hospitalization, with 96 patients in the control group (CG) receiving conventional hospital care and 93 patients in the intervention group (IG) receiving QR code-based video pharmaceutical education from hospitalization to six months after discharge to improve proper utilization of inhalation technology The outcome measures used to assess the effectiveness of the education program were the COPD Assessment Test (CAT), inhaler use accuracy, inhaler technique score, Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire (BMQ) score and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

Compared with CG, inhaler use accuracy and inhaler use scores improved in the IG group, while BMQ-Concern and CAT scores were significantly lower (P<0.05). Improvements in patient quality-of-life and satisfaction were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that the QR code-based video pharmaceutical education program can improve the quality of life and satisfaction of elderly COPD patients.

Model of ligand-triggered information transmission in G-protein coupled receptor complexes

We present a model for the effects of ligands on information transmission in G-Protein Coupled Receptor (GPCR) complexes. The model is built ab initio entirely on principles of statistical mechanics and tenets of information transmission theory and was validated in part using agonist-induced effector activity and signaling bias for the angiotensin- and adrenergic-mediated signaling pathways, with in vitro observations of phosphorylation sites on the C tail of the GPCR complex, and single-cell information-transmission experiments. The model extends traditional kinetic models that form the basis for many existing models of GPCR signaling. It is based on maximizing the rates of entropy production and information transmission through the GPCR complex. The model predicts that (1) phosphatase-catalyzed reactions, as opposed to kinase-catalyzed reactions, on the C-tail and internal loops of the GPCR are responsible for controlling the signaling activity, (2) signaling favors the statistical balance of the number of switches in the ON state and the number in the OFF state, and (3) biased-signaling response depends discontinuously on ligand concentration.

QR code technology in individual identification training provides an introduction in hands-on forensic DNA genotyping to medical students

BACKGROUND

Forensic biology is a subject in the field of forensic science that stresses practical teaching and training in laboratory skills. Visualization of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) profiles is important in individual identification and is easily performed by well-trained examiners. Therefore, developing a novel training project for obtaining individual DNA profiles can improve the quality of teaching for medical students or trainees. DNA profiles based on quick response (QR) codes can also be applied to practical teaching and operation training for individual identification.

METHODS

A novel training project was developed through an experimental course in forensic biology. Blood samples and buccal swabs with oral epithelial cells, as used in the forensic DNA laboratory, were obtained from medical students at Fujian Medical University. DNA was isolated, and a number of short tandem repeat (STR) loci were used as genetic markers to generate DNA profiles. The students converted DNA profiles and individual information into a QR code. The QR code could then be scanned by a mobile phone for consulting and retrieval. Gene identity cards with QR codes were produced and provided to every student. The participation rate and passing rate of students who participated in the novel training project were calculated and compared with those of students in the traditional experimental course, and a chi-square test was carried out by SPSS 23.0 software to evaluate the teaching effectiveness. p < 0.05 indicated significant differences. In addition, a survey was conducted to investigate the likelihood of using of gene identity cards with QR codes in the future.

RESULTS

A total of 54 of 91 medical students who studied forensic biology participated in the novel training project in 2021. Only 31 of 78 students who studied forensic biology participated in the traditional experimental course in 2020. The participation rate in the novel training project was 24% higher than that of the traditional experimental course. The participants in the novel training project showed better performance in forensic biological handling techniques. The passing rate of the students in the forensic biology course with the novel training project was approximately 17% higher than that of the students in the former course. The participation rates and passing rates of the two groups were significantly different (χ = 6.452, p = 0.008 and χ = 11.043, p = 0.001). In the novel training project, all participants made 54 gene identity cards with QR codes. Furthermore, in the DNA profiles of four African students who participated, we found two rare alleles that were not discovered in Asians. The survey showed that the use of gene identity cards with QR codes was accepted by most participants, and the likelihood of future utilization was 78%.

CONCLUSION

We established a novel training project to promote the learning activities of medical students in experimental forensic biology courses. The participants showed great interest in using gene identity cards with QR codes to store general individual identity information and DNA profiles. They also examined the genetic population differences between different races based on DNA profiles. Hence, the novel training project could be useful for training workshops, forensic experimental courses, and medical big data research.

A Lossless-Recovery Secret Distribution Scheme Based on QR Codes

The visual cryptography scheme (VCS) distributes a secret to several images that can enhance the secure transmission of that secret. Quick response (QR) codes are widespread. VCS can be used to improve their secure transmission. Some schemes recover QR codes with many errors. This paper uses a distribution mechanism to achieve the error-free recovery of QR codes. An error-correction codeword (ECC) is used to divide the QR code into different areas. Every area is a key, and they are distributed to n shares. The loss of any share will make the reconstructed QR code impossible to decode normally. Stacking all shares can recover the secret QR code losslessly. Based on some experiments, the proposed scheme is relatively safe. The proposed scheme can restore a secret QR code without errors, and it is effective and feasible.

Brain-Computer Interface Based on Steady-State Visual Evoked Potential Using Quick-Response Code Pattern for Wheelchair Control

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are widely utilized in control applications for people with severe physical disabilities. Several researchers have aimed to develop practical brain-controlled wheelchairs. An existing electroencephalogram (EEG)-based BCI based on steady-state visually evoked potential (SSVEP) was developed for device control. This study utilized a quick-response (QR) code visual stimulus pattern for a robust existing system. Four commands were generated using the proposed visual stimulation pattern with four flickering frequencies. Moreover, we employed a relative power spectrum density (PSD) method for the SSVEP feature extraction and compared it with an absolute PSD method. We designed experiments to verify the efficiency of the proposed system. The results revealed that the proposed SSVEP method and algorithm yielded an average classification accuracy of approximately 92% in real-time processing. For the wheelchair simulated via independent-based control, the proposed BCI control required approximately five-fold more time than the keyboard control for real-time control. The proposed SSVEP method using a QR code pattern can be used for BCI-based wheelchair control. However, it suffers from visual fatigue owing to long-time continuous control. We will verify and enhance the proposed system for wheelchair control in people with severe physical disabilities.

Location-Linked QR Code as a Safe Tool for Recording Classroom Attendance During COVID-19 Pandemic: Perspectives of Medical Students

COVID-19 lockdowns affected educational programs. Online learning has suddenly become the main form of medical education. However, attendance enhances a student's competency and professionalism. Rising student numbers and the COVID-19 pandemic make in-class learning challenging. This study investigates medical students' perceptions of a recently implemented tool for recording attendance using a QR code that detects students' location while scanning. An online questionnaire was designed to collect responses. One hundred thirty-two students completed the survey. Students agreed that the method was usable, reliable, accurate, secure, and convenient. This method should be investigated as a standard tool for attendance recording.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40670-022-01625-7.

[Research on Hospital Operating Room Management System Based on PDA Code Scanning Technology]

In view of the high recognition error rate and long scanning time in the existing hospital scanning technology, a new hospital operating room scanning system is designed based on personal digital assistant (PDA). The PDA scanning device adopts PIC16F877A microcontroller of 8 bit for wireless transmission through RFID and bluetooth technology, the code scanning efficiency is greatly improved. In addition, in order to improve the accuracy of image analysis, this study also adopts the energy driven sampling classification algorithm (EDS-CA) to properly preprocess the medical data information received through PDA scanning, then constructs a function classifier, and improves the image processing efficiency according to the EDS-CA reduction process. The experimental results show that the average accuracy of the code scanning system designed in this study is 95%, which proves that PDA code scanning has good performance.

Performance of QR Code Detectors near Nyquist Limits

For the interacting with real world, augmented reality devices need lightweight yet reliable methods for recognition and identification of physical objects. In that regard, promising possibilities are offered by supporting computer vision with 2D barcode tags. These tags, as high contrast and visually well-defined objects, can be used for finding fiducial points in the space or to identify physical items. Currently, QR code readers have certain demands towards the size and visibility of the codes. However, the increase of resolution of built-in cameras makes it possible to identify smaller QR codes in the scene. On the other hand, growing resolutions cause the increase to the computational effort of tag location. Therefore, resolution reduction in decoders is a common trade-off between processing time and recognition capabilities. In this article, we propose the simulation method of QR codes scanning near limits that stem from Shannon's theorem. We analyze the efficiency of three publicly available decoders versus different size-to-sampling ratios (scales) and MTF characteristics of the image capture subsystem. The MTF we used is based on the characteristics of real devices, and it was modeled using Gaussian low-pass filtering. We tested two tasks-decoding and locating-and-decoding. The findings of the work are several-fold. Among others, we identified that, for practical decoding, the QR-code module should be no smaller than 3-3.5 pixels, regardless of MTF characteristics. We confirmed the superiority of Zbar in practical tasks and the worst recognition capabilities of OpenCV. On the other hand, we identified that, for borderline cases, or even below Nyquist limit where the other decoders fail, OpenCV is still capable of decoding some information.

Feasibility of using QR code for registration & evaluation of training and its ability to increase response rate - The learners' perception

Taking learners' attendance and obtaining an evaluation of teaching is a routine activity performed by teachers. The traditional method of taking attendance using pen and paper posed a huge challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic. This has been time-consuming as compared to pre-COVID as well as frustrating for learners waiting in a queue for their turn to sign the register. Quick Response (QR) Codes were used to complete registration to buy back the time consumed using traditional methods of registration. Learners' evaluations are used as an instrument to evaluate teaching quality. At the researcher's workplace, a traditional paper-based evaluation method has been used for decades. However, over time a significant decrease in the response rate of evaluations was noticed. The pandemic provided an opportunity of using QR Codes to obtain learners' evaluation of teaching quality. This study assessed the learners' perception of using QR Codes for registration and evaluation, and the likelihood of learners completing the evaluation surveys, thus increasing the response rate. Participants of the study were asked to complete an electronic survey to help assess their perception of using QR Codes and a comparison was made between the responses gathered using paper-based evaluations over 5 months and QR Code evaluations over the same 5 months in the following year. The results of this study demonstrate that using QR Codes for registration and evaluation is easy and straightforward, thus increasing the likelihood of learners completing the evaluation. The comparison between paper-based and QR Code evaluations confirms that a substantial increase in response rate can be achieved by using QR Code evaluations.

Exploration of standardized clinical skills instruction video based on QR code management in clinical hospital teaching

OBJECTIVE

To explore the application effect of standardized clinical skills instruction video based on QR code management in clinical teaching to promote the information reform and innovation of clinical teaching and seek a new practice method with a higher teaching efficiency.

METHODS

A total of 150 clinical, medical-technical, and nursing interns who completed their internship in our hospital by June 2021 after being enrolled in 2020 were assigned to the experimental group, and 84 interns who completed their internship by June 2020 after being recruited in 2019 were retrospectively included in the control group. The experimental group received standardized clinical skills instruction videos based on QR code management to clinical teaching, while the control group was given the traditional teaching method. The costs of teaching models, materials management, and human resources in the clinical skills center that were eventually consumed by the two groups were counted, and the satisfaction of the interns and teachers towards teaching activities was investigated by a satisfaction questionnaire. In addition, the scores of the final exam of internship skills and the pass rate of the enrollment skill exam for residency training were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

After the application of standardized clinical skills instruction videos based on QR code management to clinical teaching, the cost of running the clinical skills center was significantly reduced ($800 vs. $10,000), and the intern trainees (χ²=10.088, P=0.0064) and teachers (χ²=6.1138, P=0.0470) who received these videos expressed higher satisfaction than those given the traditional teaching model, with better performance on the final exam of internship skills (t=11.952, P=0.0000) and a higher pass rate of the enrollment skills exam for residency training (χ²=6.402, P=0.0114).

CONCLUSION

The standardized clinical skills instruction video based on QR code management can realize the synchronization of classroom teaching and network teaching and the decentralized network-independent learning, which promotes the information reform and innovation of clinical hospital teaching based on the integration of multimedia teaching and network learning and provides a novel practice method with a higher effect for clinical hospital teaching.

Practical Application of QR Code Electronic Manuals in Equipment Management and Training

Objective: To explore the application value of QR code electronic manuals in operating theater equipment management and training.

Methods: The control group adopted the traditional management mode. Training was carried out before each device was put into use in the department. A unified operation process and a paper card manual for common faults were formulated and hung next to each device. For the observation group, the electronic manuals generated by the QR code were pasted on the operating theater equipment for management and training. The management and training effect was compared between the two groups.

Results: The efficiency of equipment management and training using the QR code electronic manuals was significantly higher than that of traditional training, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: The QR code manuals are very effective in operating theater equipment management and training. They can be read and learned in time to improve the operating theater equipment utilization rate, accuracy rate, and equipment management and training quality.

Data-Enriched Edible Pharmaceuticals (DEEP) with Bespoke Design, Dose and Drug Release

Data-enriched edible pharmaceuticals (DEEP) is an approach to obtain personalized medicine, in terms of flexible and precise drug doses, while at the same time containing data, embedded in quick response (QR) codes at a single dosage unit level. The aim of this study was to fabricate DEEP with a patient-tailored dose, modify drug release and design to meet patients' preferences. It also aimed to investigate physical stability in terms of the readability of QR code patterns of DEEP during storage. Cannabinoids, namely, cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), were used as the model active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Three different substrates and two colorants for the ink were tested for their suitability to fabricate DEEP by desktop inkjet printing. Flexible doses and customizable designs of DEEP were obtained by manipulating the digital design of the QR code, particularly, by exploring different pattern types, embedded images and the physical size of the QR code pattern. Modification of the release of both APIs from DEEP was achieved by applying a hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) polymer coating. The appearance and readability of uncoated and polymer-coated DEEP did not change on storage in cold and dry conditions; however, the HPC polymer layer was insufficient in preserving the readability of the QR code pattern in the extreme storage condition (40 °C and 75% relative humidity). To sum up, the DEEP concept provides opportunities for the personalization of medicines, considering also patients' preferences.

Web-based expert system with quick response code for beta-thalassemia management

β-thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder in which the body cannot produce hemoglobin normally. Since patients with this condition receive blood transfusions regularly, iron builds up primarily in organs such as the heart, liver and endocrine glands. Accumulation of iron in the organs necessitates chelation therapy. These patients must visit the hospital frequently to assess and follow up on their health condition. Physician intervention is required after each regular assessment to adjust the treatment. Lifelong healthcare support using a web-based expert system with a quick response code is designed for β-thalassemia management in order to deliver benefits to patients, physicians, and other healthcare providers. The aim of this study is to implement a web-based expert system for β-thalassemia management in order to provide treatment recommendations and support the lifelong healthcare of patients. The system provides patient-related details, such as medical history, medicines, and appointments, in real-time. It has been also tested in real-life cases and shown to enhance β-thalassemia management.

Enabling Micro Injection Moulding Using a Soft Tooling Process Chain with Inserts Made of Mortar Material

The manufacturing of inserts for micro injection moulding made of mortar material is presented in this work. The fabrication of the mortar insert described in this publication relied on a versatile and relatively fast rapid prototyping process based on soft tooling. The mortar insert has a QR code with micro features on its surface, which was replicated in acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) polymer by the micro injection moulding process. With this approach, it is possible to fabricate hard inserts for micro injection moulding purposes that are able to compete with conventional-made inserts made of tool steel.

Innovative Strategies to Facilitate Safe Assessment and Intervention for Intimate Partner Violence During a Pandemic and Beyond

The COVID-19 pandemic has made it necessary to find innovative strategies that facilitate safe, private assessment and intervention for intimate partner violence (IPV). IPV is a major source of morbidity and mortality, with women experiencing a lifetime prevalence rate of 22%. Screening pregnant individuals for IPV during the COVID-19 pandemic became critical because a 20% rise in IPV during the pandemic has been estimated. A multidisciplinary stakeholder panel created a process using technology to address this concern. An infographic poster with IPV screening questions and a Quick Response (QR) code was displayed in bathrooms in the perinatal service area. The infographic allowed respondents to signal a safety concern, launching an individualized plan of care to address their needs privately. The pandemic has highlighted how much work needs to be done to ensure that people who experience IPV continue to obtain access to support and health care.

pyPOCQuant - A tool to automatically quantify Point-Of-Care Tests from images

Lateral flow Point-Of-Care Tests (POCTs) are a valuable tool for rapidly detecting pathogens and the associated immune response in humans and animals. In the context of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, they offer rapid on-site diagnostics and can relieve centralized laboratory testing sites, thus freeing resources that can be focused on especially vulnerable groups. However, visual interpretation of the POCT test lines is subjective, error prone and only qualitative. Here we present pyPOCQuant, an open-source tool implemented in Python 3 that can robustly and reproducibly analyze POCTs from digital images and return an unbiased and quantitative measurement of the POCT test lines.

Quick response code applications in medical and cardiology settings: a systematic scoping review

Aims

To review published literature on the use of quick response (QR) codes within medical and cardiology settings.

Methods and Results

Medline, Scopus Search, and Cochrane Library were used to conduct the research. Title and abstract review of 376 publications were performed. Papers that discussed the application of QR codes in medical setting were included. A total of 151 articles were reviewed and thematic analysis conducted to understand how QR codes are currently used in the medical setting, the medical areas in which they are mostly used, their applications in the cardiovascular area. The analysis of 151 articles revealed that QR code technology is mainly used in the medical field to: (i) collect data via survey, (ii) educate medical staff or students, and (iii) provide information about therapies or surgery. The medical area in which QR codes are most used is the clinical one, but only 3.3% of publications concern cardiovascular settings. A third of the QR code-related articles of 2020 is about Covid-19.

Conclusions

Different uses of QR codes in a medical setting are increasing. Quick response codes might represent an easy and convenient digital tool to collect data and implement telemedicine programs on a large scale involving also the cardiovascular setting.

Using QR Code for Uniform Representation of Content in Cross-Border Exchange of ePrescriptions in the EU

This paper proposes an approach and demonstrates its application for cross-border exchange of ePrescriptions in the European Union. A business process model of the main use case for exchange of prescription content in the eHealth Digital Service Infrastructure is created and analyzed. The novelty in this approach is the proposed encoding of the basic dataset in a Quick Response (QR) code in terms of an XML scheme that is independent of clinical models or proprietary database structures. It allows to inverse the dataflow control in the chain of message exchanges between Dispenser and National Contact Points. The proposed inversion of control positions the citizen with the QR code of the prescription in the center of that chain of message exchanges between the main actors of the business process. The independent format of content representation in the QR code allows the actors in the message exchange to auto-populate data in their registers when the medicine is dispensed. Initial results are reported and reveal the advantages of embedding prescription details in QR code employing a common independent XML scheme.

Color-Changeable Four-Dimensional Printing Enabled with Ultraviolet-Curable and Thermochromic Shape Memory Polymers

Four-dimensional (4D) printing, which enables 3D printed structures to alter shapes over time, is attracting increasing attention because of its exciting potential in various applications. Among all the 4D printing materials, shape memory polymers (SMPs) have a higher stiffness and faster response rate and therefore are considered as one of the most promising 4D printing materials. However, the current studies of SMP-based 4D printing mainly focused on the deformation behavior and structural design of 4D printed structures. An additional function such as color change is desired for 4D printed structure, which would be potentially beneficial to the applications such as anti-counterfeiting, encryption, and bioinspired camouflage. In this paper, we report an ultraviolet (UV)-curable and thermochromic (UVT) SMP system that enables color-changeable 4D printing. The UVT SMP system is acrylate-based, thus highly UV-curable and compatible with PμSL-based high-resolution 3D printing technique. Thermochromism is imparted by adding the thermochromic microcapsules to the UVT SMP system, which allows the printed structures to reversibly change colors upon heating and cooling. To demonstrate its extraordinary thermochromic and mechanical performance, we use UVT SMP to print QR codes and multilevel anti-counterfeiting patterns which can hide the visible information at room temperature and visualize the information by encrypting, decrypting, and encrypting again steps with the shape-color recovery process. The development of UVT SMP will significantly advance current applications of SMP-based 4D printing, especially for anti-counterfeiting and safe data recording.

Data from UNIMI HEART SURVEY: Does Studying Medicine Hurt?

Background: Few studies to date have addressed global cardiovascular (CV) risk profile in a “protected” young population as that of medical school students. Objective: to assess CV traditional risk factors and global CV risk profile of Italian medical students throughout the six years of university. Methods: A cross-sectional survey accessible online via quick response (QR) code was conducted among 2700 medical students at the University of Milan, Italy. Data on baseline characteristics, traditional CV risk factors, diet, lifestyle habits, and perceived lifestyle variations were evaluated across different years of school. Results: Overall, 1183 students (mean age, 22.05 years; 729 women (61.6%)) out of 2700 completed the questionnaire (43.8% rate response). More than 16% of the students had at least 3 out of 12 CV risk factors and only 4.6% had ideal cardiovascular health as defined by the American Heart Association. Overweight, underweight, physical inactivity, sub-optimal diet, smoke history, and elevated stress were commonly reported. Awareness of own blood pressure and lipid profile increased over the academic years as well as the number of high-blood-pressure subjects, alcohol abusers, and students constantly stressed for university reasons. Moreover, a reduction in physical-activity levels over the years was reported by half of the students. Conclusion and Relevance: This study demonstrates that a “protected” population as that of young medical students can show an unsatisfactory cardiovascular risk profile and suggests that medical school itself, being demanding and stressful, may have a role in worsening of the lifestyle.

SSVM: An Ultra-Low-Power Strain Sensing and Visualization Module for Long-Term Structural Health Monitoring

Structural health monitoring (SHM) is crucial for quantitative behavioral analysis of structural members such as fatigue, buckling, and crack propagation identification. However, formerly developed approaches cannot be implemented effectively for long-term infrastructure monitoring, owing to power inefficiency and data management challenges. This study presents the development of a high-fidelity and ultra-low-power strain sensing and visualization module (SSVM), along with an effective data management technique. Deployment of 24-bit resolution analog to a digital converter and precise half-bridge circuit for strain sensing are two significant factors for efficient strain measurement and power management circuit incorporating a low-power microcontroller unit (MCU), and electronic-paper display (EPD) enabled long-term operation. A prototype for SSVM was developed that performs strain sensing and encodes the strain response in a QR code for visualization on the EPD. For efficient power management, SSVM only activated when the trigger-signal was generated and stayed in power-saving mode consuming 18 mA and 337.9 μA, respectively. The trigger-signal was designed to be generated either periodically by a timer or intentionally by a push-button. A smartphone application and cloud database were developed for efficient data acquisition and management. A lab-scale experiment was carried out to validate the proposed system with a reference strain sensing system. A cantilever beam was deflected by increasing load at its free end, and the resultant strain response of SSVM was compared with the reference. The proposed system was successfully validated to use for long-term static strain measurement.

The Usefulness of the QR Code in Orthotic Applications after Orthopedic Surgery

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the utility of QR (quick response) codes in explaining the proper method for orthotic use after orthopedic surgery. A questionnaire survey was adopted to evaluate patient satisfaction with education and training in orthotic applications after orthopedic surgery. The study periods were 1 April to 30 April 2017, and 1 October to 31 October 2017. The oral training involving the conventional orthoses was conducted in April, and the videos with the orthosis on the QR code were captured in October. The QR code containing the data was distributed and the education was conducted. A total of 68 patients (QR-code group: 33) participated in the questionnaire survey. After the QR code application, the number of retraining cases increased from 62.9 to 93.9% (p-value < 0.01). The mean scores of the four items measuring the comprehension increased from 10.97 to 14.39. The satisfaction level rose from 7.14 to 9.30, and the performance increased from 7.14 to 9.52 (p-value < 0.01). The QR code is expected to be a valuable method for explaining the orthotic application after orthopedic surgery, and especially when repeated explanations are needed for elderly patients.

A partial encryption algorithm for medical images based on quick response code and reversible data hiding technology

Background

Medical image data, like most patient information, have a strong requirement for privacy and confidentiality. This makes transmitting medical image data, within an open network, problematic, due to the aforementioned issues, along with the dangers of data/information leakage. Possible solutions in the past have included the utilization of information-hiding and image-encryption technologies; however, these methods can cause difficulties when attempting to recover the original images.

Methods

In this work, we developed an algorithm for protecting medical image key regions. Coefficient of variation is first employed to identify key regions, a.k.a. image lesion areas; then additional areas are processed as blocks and texture complexity is analyzed. Next, our novel reversible data-hiding algorithm embeds lesion area contents into a high-texture area, after which an Arnold transformation is utilized to protect the original lesion information. After this, we use image basic information ciphertext and decryption parameters to generate a quick response (QR) code used in place of original key regions.

Results

The approach presented here allows for the storage (and sending) of medical image data within open network environments, while ensuring only authorized personnel are able to recover sensitive patient information (both image and meta-data) without information loss.

Discussion

Peak signal to noise ratio and the Structural Similarity Index measures show that the algorithm presented in this work can encrypt and restore original images without information loss. Moreover, by adjusting the threshold and the Mean Squared Error, we can control the overall quality of the image: the higher the threshold, the better the quality and vice versa. This allows the encryptor to control the amount of degradation as, at appropriate amounts, degradation aids in the protection of the image.

Conclusions

As shown in the experimental results, the proposed method allows for (a) the safe transmission and storage of medical image data, (b) the full recovery (no information loss) of sensitive regions within the medical image following encryption, and (c) meta-data about the patient and image to be stored within and recovered from the public image.

Digital Forensics of Scanned QR Code Images for Printer Source Identification Using Bottleneck Residual Block

With the rapid development of information technology and the widespread use of the Internet, QR codes are widely used in all walks of life and have a profound impact on people’s work and life. However, the QR code itself is likely to be printed and forged, which will cause serious economic losses and criminal offenses. Therefore, it is of great significance to identify the printer source of QR code. A method of printer source identification for scanned QR Code image blocks based on convolutional neural network (PSINet) is proposed, which innovatively introduces a bottleneck residual block (BRB). We give a detailed theoretical discussion and experimental analysis of PSINet in terms of network input, the first convolution layer design based on residual structure, and the overall architecture of the proposed convolution neural network (CNN). Experimental results show that the proposed PSINet in this paper can obtain extremely excellent printer source identification performance, the accuracy of printer source identification of QR code on eight printers can reach 99.82%, which is not only better than LeNet and AlexNet widely used in the field of digital image forensics, but also exceeds state-of-the-art deep learning methods in the field of printer source identification.

Assessing the feasibility of introducing an electronic health information system into Tuberculosis clinics and laboratories in Myanmar

Myanmar has launched an advanced tuberculosis examination policy, which involves specimen exchanges among clinics and referral laboratories. However, with the current paper-based operation, it is difficult to trace information accurately. Therefore, since April 2017, we introduced a pilot operation consisting of an electronic health information system (HIS) that uses QR codes for data sharing in the tuberculosis laboratory at seven facilities. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of introducing the electronic HIS into tuberculosis clinics and laboratories based on staff perception, workload and workflow, and data accuracy, and to clarify its advantages and disadvantages. The analysis was descriptive, and it involved a semi-structured interview for the staff, workflow observations to evaluate the workload and describe the change in workflow, and evaluation of the data accuracy by comparing the numbers yielded by the paper-based and HIS-based reports. The HIS was positively accepted as it improved work efficiency, while the operation still depended on paper-based reports. Parallel data registration using both paper-based and HIS-based reports increased the workload. Data discrepancies were found when comparing the paper-based and HIS-based reports, and these discrepancies were not directly attributed to the HIS introduction but individual factors. Crucial facilitating factors of the HIS were its operability and user-friendliness, because it does not require specific training. The additional workload translates into the need for additional human resources, and the parallel data registration remains a challenge. However, we consider that these challenges could be overcome as coverage of the HIS expands.

Synthesis of hybrid colloidal nanoparticles for a generic approach to 3D electrostatic directed assembly: Application to anti-counterfeiting

HYPOTHESIS

The capability of making 3D directed assembly of colloidal nanoparticles on surfaces, instead of 2D one, is of major interest to generate, tailor, and enhance their original functionalities. The nanoxerography technique, i.e. electrostatic trapping of nanoparticles on charged patterns, showed such 3D assembly potentialities but is presently restricted to polarizable nanoparticles with a diameter superior to 20 nm. Hence, it should be possible to exploit a generic approach based on hybrid systems using larger nanoparticles as cargos to anchor smaller ones.

EXPERIMENTS

A synthesis of hybrid nanoparticles in a raspberry-like configuration was performed using 50 nm SiO₂ nanoparticles and photoluminescent 3-5 nm InP@ZnS (visible emission) or PbS (infrared emission) nanoparticles. Complete topographical and photoluminescent characterizations were carried out on hybrid nanoparticle patterns assembled by nanoxerography and systematically compared to patterns obtained from single photoluminescent nanoparticles.

FINDINGS

The synthesis approach is generic. Every hybrid nanoparticle system has led to 3D assemblies with improved photoluminescent signals compared to mono/bilayered assemblies. Straightforward applications for anti-counterfeiting are illustrated. The versatility of the proposed concept is expected to be applied to other nanoparticles to make the most of their magnetic, catalytic, optical etc. properties in a wide range of applications, sensors and devices.

Video Education Reduces Pain and Anxiety Levels in Cancer Patients Who First Use Fentanyl Transdermal Patch: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective

We sought to evaluate the efficacy of using a quick response (QR) code within video education to guide proper use of fentanyl transdermal patches and control pain, depression, and anxiety levels in cancer patients.

Methods

Patients using a fentanyl transdermal patch for the first time were enrolled in the study and then given an information leaflet as well as an informed consent form. We asked them to complete the first questionnaire (Q1) prior to first use of the fentanyl transdermal patch, and then used a random number table to randomize those who completed it into two groups. Participants in group A received a QR code (to make it easier for them to obtain additional video information) and a traditional information leaflet, whereas those in group B (control group) only received a traditional information leaflet. Thereafter, we requested all participants to complete standard questionnaires, which comprised a Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), a Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), as well as a Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The resulting continuous (with a normal distribution) and categorical data were analyzed using Student’s t- and chi-square tests, respectively. We also recorded parameters such as NRS, STAI, and HADS, as well as the frequency of rescue medication in both groups.

Results

A total of 154 cancer patients who first used a fentanyl transdermal patch were recruited during the study period, from April to May 2020. Among these, 138 completed follow-up, with 70 and 68 in group A and B, respectively. Participants in both groups had similar baseline and clinical characteristics, whereas significant differences were observed between the groups with regard to the other parameters. Specifically, participants in group A recorded a lower STAI state (38.2 vs 38.9, P=0.027) and HADS (3.9 vs 4.2, P=0.001) anxiety scores, as well as NRS (2.1 vs 2.4, P=0.025) and frequency of rescue medication (0.4 vs 1.4, P<0.001) than those in group B, following 14 days of using a fentanyl transdermal patch.

Conclusion

Our results indicated that incorporating a QR code within additional video education leads to proper use of a fentanyl transdermal patch and relieves pain and anxiety levels in patients with cancer. Based on this, we recommend a new style of education during care of cancer patients who first use a fentanyl transdermal patch.

A quasi-experimental study examining QR code-based video education program on anxiety, adherence, and satisfaction in coronary angiography patients

Background: QR (quick response) codes are a promising tool for health education, however effects of QR code application in providing peri-procedure education to patients with coronary angiography is unclear.Aim/Objective: This study investigated the effect of a QR code-based video education program on anxiety, adherence, and satisfaction in Chinese coronary angiography patients.Material and Methods: This prospective controlled clinical trial included 335 patients undergoing coronary angiography, including 166 patients in the experimental group and 169 patients in the control group. On the day before coronary angiography, patients in the experimental group had access to and could watch an educational video on their smartphones by scanning a QR code for multiple times, while patients in the control group watched the same video on a tablet once only. The primary outcome was anxiety assessed using the Chinese State Anxiety Inventory (C-SAI). Adherence to instructions and patient satisfaction with the information delivery method were also evaluated.Results: The C-SAI scores improved in the experimental group compared to the control group (F = 9.8, P < 0.001) over time. There is a significant difference in the changes of anxiety scores from baseline to pre-procedure (P < 0.001) and post-procedure (P < 0.01) between the two groups. Individuals in the experimental group showed better adherence to instructions on removing dentures and jewelry, and taking medicines before the procedure (P < 0.05), and limb activity, water consumption, and diet after the procedure (P < 0.001).Conclusion: Patient education programs on smartphone that can be accessed multiple times by scanning a QR code can be an effective and convenient approach to reducing anxiety and enhancing adherence to instructions among Chinese coronary angiography patients. Hospitals and clinicians should consider more investments in developing such patient education programs and also help improve ehealth literacy.

High throughput detection of antibiotic residues in milk by time-resolved fluorescence immunochromatography based on QR code

Herein, we have successfully established a novel, rapid, and simple lateral-flow immunoassay based on time-resolved fluorescence and biotin-streptavidin to detect the residues of various antibiotics in milk. The fluorescence signal and sensitivity of immunochromatography were enhanced through biotinylated antibody coupled with streptavidin europium microspheres. Moreover, due to the use of a QR Code and fluorescent reader, quantitative detection and real-time data uploading can be achieved. Under the optimal conditions, the various antibiotic residues were detected in the milk samples. The results showed that the limits of detection of tylosin, lincomycin and doxycycline were 0.10, 0.06, and 0.27 ng/mL, respectively. The recoveries of the spiked milk samples were 88.9%~127%, with coefficients of variation less than 11%, and the test strip can be stored at room temperature for 12 months. This study shows that the proposed time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay is sensitive, rapid and reliable, and has the potential to be used for detection of veterinary antibiotic residues in food safety fields.

Adaptive Binarization of QR Code Images for FastAutomatic Sorting in Warehouse Systems

As the fundamental element of the Internet of Things, the QR code has become increasingly crucial for connecting online and offline services. Concerning e-commerce and logistics, we mainly focus on how to identify QR codes quickly and accurately. An adaptive binarization approach is proposed to solve the problem of uneven illumination in warehouse automatic sorting systems. Guided by cognitive modeling, we adaptively select the block window of the QR code for robust binarization under uneven illumination. The proposed method can eliminate the impact of uneven illumination of QR codes effectively whilst meeting the real-time needs in the automatic warehouse sorting. Experimental results have demonstrated the superiority of the proposed approach when benchmarked with several state-of-the-art methods.

[Improvement Project Introducing the Hospital Environment to New Patients in Pediatric Wards]

BACKGROUND & PROBLEMS

The pediatric ward in our hospital has an average occupancy rate of ten patients per day. An investigation found that nurses had a low (51.9%) rate of completing the required introduction to the hospital environment for pediatric ward patients. The main reasons for this low rate were found to be: 1) the large number of items to be introduced, 2) interruptions of staffs during the introduction process, 3) the lack of sufficient introduction tools, and 4) patient family members and new caregivers not being given the introduction.

PURPOSE

To increase the rate of completeness of nursing staffs introducing the hospital environment from 51.9% to over 91.0%.

RESOLUTION

The project team proposed the following solutions. First, make a video introducing the general hospital environment and make it accessible via QR (quick response) code; second, provide multiple introduction video tools; third, make the environment more friendly using ward-mascot-themed décor; fourth, install fixtures in the rooms that complement the ward-mascot theme; fifth, revise the contents of the environment introduction; and sixth, make an environment introduction checklist.

RESULTS

The completeness rate of environment introduction increased from 51.9% to 97.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

The pediatric ward not only increased the environment introduction completion rate but also created a more friendly environment. Using the video and QR code and providing multiple video players and a checklist has efficiently increased the environment introduction completion rate and, in creating a more friendly environment, has successfully maintained nursing quality.

A Novel mHealth Approach for a Patient-Centered Medication and Health Management System in Taiwan: Pilot Study

Background

Mobile health (mHealth) apps have recently demonstrated the potential to engage and empower people to improve their own health. Although the availability of health-related apps is increasing, their adoption rate in Taiwan is exceptionally low mainly due to the preponderance of Western culture-based app designs that are challenging for non-English-speaking individuals. To our knowledge, no mHealth app is available in Taiwan that is culturally tailored for Chinese-speaking users and that applies a patient-centered approach to self-manage medication and health.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to design and deploy a culturally tailored mHealth system that could be easily integrated into current clinical practice and to evaluate how this mHealth system could support the continuity of patient care in Taiwan.

Methods

An mHealth information system and a mobile app were designed. To promote the best patient experience, a Quick Response (QR) code system was developed to enable efficient registration of personal medication information through the mobile app. The app also supported notifications for drug utilization, refills, and symptom checks. Patients were encouraged to record medication use, symptoms, and self-assessments in the app during their treatment period. Evaluation of the novel mHealth system was conducted from August 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016 at MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. Population data and app usage statistics were analyzed.

Results

During the 5-month implementation period, a total of 25,909 users downloaded the app with an overall 7-day retention rate of 15.4% (SD 3.9). Young male adults (range 25-44 years) were the predominant user population. Patients’ feedback on app usability and design, QR code system as drug input method, medication reminders, and linking family or friends into care networks was generally positive. Physicians showed great interest in utilizing patient-generated data in their care process, and the positive medication adherence rate was the most highly valued component of this system.

Conclusions

This pilot study demonstrated the value of a novel mHealth approach for individualized medication and health management in Taiwan. The mHealth system shows the potential to optimize personalized care into existing clinical services and may help hospitals and health authorities perform continuous quality improvement and policy development.

A novel use of QR code stickers after orthopaedic cast application

INTRODUCTION We present a novel solution to ensure that information and contact details are always available to patients while in cast. An information sticker containing both telephone numbers and a Quick Response (QR) code is applied to the cast. When scanned with a smartphone, the QR code loads the plaster team's webpage. This contains information and videos about cast care, complications and enhancing recovery. METHODS A sticker was designed and applied to all synthetic casts fitted in our fracture clinic. On cast removal, patients completed a questionnaire about the sticker. A total of 101 patients were surveyed between November 2015 and February 2016. The questionnaire comprised ten binary choice questions. RESULTS The vast majority (97%) of patients had the sticker still on their cast when they returned to clinic for cast removal. Eighty-four per cent of all patients felt reassured by the presence of the QR code sticker. Nine per cent used the contact details on the cast to seek advice. Over half (56%) had a smartphone and a third (33%) of these scanned the QR code. Of those who scanned the code, 95% found the information useful. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that use of a QR code reassures patients and is an effective tool in the proactive management of potential cast problems. The QR code sticker is now applied to all casts across our trust. In line with NHS England's Five Year Forward View calling for enhanced use of smartphone technology, our trust is continuing to expand its portfolio of patient information accessible via QR codes. Other branches of medicine may benefit from incorporating QR codes as portals to access such information.

A Wi-Fi Union Mechanism for Internet Advertising Reciprocal Platform in Microenterprises

With the evolution of the Internet and smartphone devices, Internet advertising has become one of the most important methods for delivering promotional marketing messages to customers. However, the efficiency of Internet advertising for microenterprise is not very high, since Wi-Fi advertising—which is limited by a small router coverage area—is mainly used. Moreover, because of the lack of money, microenterprises have been using low-cost methods to promote their products. Thus, enhancing the effectiveness of Wi-Fi advertising, and solving the problem of cost and the range of the views are now an essential investigation in this study. In this paper, we propose a reciprocal model with Wi-Fi union mechanism for Internet advertising based on fog computing architecture to enhance the efficiency of advertisement, reduce the cost, and increase the range of the views for microenterprise by using the Internet. In particular, the system was built in advertisers’, publishers’, and consumers’ sides. In our system, we use contribution point (CP) as an exchange value among the participants. Advertisers and publishers can get CP by helping the others in the system to promote their advertisements, increasing their CP by one unit. Similarly, advertisers and publishers can use their CP to ask for assistance from the others, decreasing their CP by one unit. The result shows that the system in a Wi-Fi union is easy to use, and advertisements can be seen by all customers who are using free Wi-Fi from the stores of the union. This method can solve the problem of cost and fixed consumer groups.

A simple and inexpensive way to document simple husbandry in animal care facilities using QR code scanning

Record keeping within research animal care facilities is a key part of the guidelines set forth by national regulatory bodies and mandated by federal laws. Research facilities must maintain records of animal health issues, procedures and usage. Facilities are also required to maintain records regarding regular husbandry such as general animal checks, feeding and watering. The level of record keeping has the potential to generate excessive amounts of paper which must be retained in a fashion as to be accessible. In addition it is preferable not to retain within administrative areas any paper records which may have been in contact with animal rooms. Here, we present a flexible, simple and inexpensive process for the generation and storage of electronic animal husbandry records using smartphone technology over a WiFi or cellular network.

QuickCash: Secure Transfer Payment Systems

Payment systems play a significant role in our daily lives. They are an important driver of economic activities and a vital part of the banking infrastructure of any country. Several current payment systems focus on security and reliability but pay less attention to users' needs and behaviors. For example, people may share their bankcards with friends or relatives to withdraw money for various reasons. This behavior can lead to a variety of privacy and security issues since the cardholder has to share a bankcard and other sensitive information such as a personal identification number (PIN). In addition, it is commonplace that cardholders may lose their cards, and may not be able to access their accounts due to various reasons. Furthermore, transferring money to an individual who has lost their bankcard and identification information is not a straightforward task. A user-friendly person-to-person payment system is urgently needed to perform secure and reliable transactions that benefit from current technological advancements. In this paper, we propose two secure fund transfer methods termed QuickCash Online and QuickCash Offline to transfer money from peer to peer using the existing banking infrastructure. Our methods provide a convenient way to transfer money quickly, and they do not require using bank cards or any identification card. Unlike other person-to-person payment systems, the proposed methods do not require the receiving entity to have a bank account, or to perform any registration procedure. We implement our QuickCash payment systems and analyze their security strengths and properties.

Genomics dataset on unclassified published organism (patent US 7547531)

Nucleotide (DNA) sequence analysis provides important clues regarding the characteristics and taxonomic position of an organism. With the intention that, DNA sequence analysis is very crucial to learn about hierarchical classification of that particular organism. This dataset (patent US 7547531) is chosen to simplify all the complex raw data buried in undisclosed DNA sequences which help to open doors for new collaborations. In this data, a total of 48 unidentified DNA sequences from patent US 7547531 were selected and their complete sequences were retrieved from NCBI BioSample database. Quick response (QR) code of those DNA sequences was constructed by DNA BarID tool. QR code is useful for the identification and comparison of isolates with other organisms. AT/GC content of the DNA sequences was determined using ENDMEMO GC Content Calculator, which indicates their stability at different temperature. The highest GC content was observed in GP445188 (62.5%) which was followed by GP445198 (61.8%) and GP445189 (59.44%), while lowest was in GP445178 (24.39%). In addition, New England BioLabs (NEB) database was used to identify cleavage code indicating the 5, 3 and blunt end and enzyme code indicating the methylation site of the DNA sequences was also shown. These data will be helpful for the construction of the organisms’ hierarchical classification, determination of their phylogenetic and taxonomic position and revelation of their molecular characteristics.

Combating QR-Code-Based Compromised Accounts in Mobile Social Networks

Cyber Physical Social Sensing makes mobile social networks (MSNs) popular with users. However, such attacks are rampant as malicious URLs are spread covertly through quick response (QR) codes to control compromised accounts in MSNs to propagate malicious messages. Currently, there are generally two types of methods to identify compromised accounts in MSNs: one type is to analyze the potential threats on wireless access points and the potential threats on handheld devices' operation systems so as to stop compromised accounts from spreading malicious messages; the other type is to apply the method of detecting compromised accounts in online social networks to MSNs. The above types of methods above focus neither on the problems of MSNs themselves nor on the interaction of sensors' messages, which leads to the restrictiveness of platforms and the simplification of methods. In order to stop the spreading of compromised accounts in MSNs effectively, the attacks have to be traced to their sources first. Through sensors, users exchange information in MSNs and acquire information by scanning QR codes. Therefore, analyzing the traces of sensor-related information helps to identify the compromised accounts in MSNs. This paper analyzes the diversity of information sending modes of compromised accounts and normal accounts, analyzes the regularity of GPS (Global Positioning System)-based location information, and introduces the concepts of entropy and conditional entropy so as to construct an entropy-based model based on machine learning strategies. To achieve the goal, about 500,000 accounts of Sina Weibo and about 100 million corresponding messages are collected. Through the validation, the accuracy rate of the model is proved to be as high as 87.6%, and the false positive rate is only 3.7%. Meanwhile, the comparative experiments of the feature sets prove that sensor-based location information can be applied to detect the compromised accounts in MSNs.

The Scientific Image in Behavior Analysis

Throughout the history of science, the scientific image has played a significant role in communication. With recent developments in computing technology, there has been an increase in the kinds of opportunities now available for scientists to communicate in more sophisticated ways. Within behavior analysis, though, we are only just beginning to appreciate the importance of going beyond the printing press to elucidate basic principles of behavior. The aim of this manuscript is to stimulate appreciation of both the role of the scientific image and the opportunities provided by a quick response code (QR code) for enhancing the functionality of the printed page. I discuss the limitations of imagery in behavior analysis ("Introduction"), and I show examples of what can be done with animations and multimedia for teaching philosophical issues that arise when teaching about private events ("Private Events 1 and 2"). Animations are also useful for bypassing ethical issues when showing examples of challenging behavior ("Challenging Behavior"). Each of these topics can be accessed only by scanning the QR code provided. This contingency has been arranged to help the reader embrace this new technology. In so doing, I hope to show its potential for going beyond the limitations of the printing press.

Implementation of Online Veterinary Hospital on Cloud Platform

Pet markets involve in great commercial possibilities, which boost thriving development of veterinary hospital businesses. The service tends to intensive competition and diversified channel environment. Information technology is integrated for developing the veterinary hospital cloud service platform. The platform contains not only pet medical services but veterinary hospital management and services. In the study, QR Code andcloud technology are applied to establish the veterinary hospital cloud service platform for pet search by labeling a pet's identification with QR Code. This technology can break the restriction on veterinary hospital inspection in different areas and allows veterinary hospitals receiving the medical records and information through the exclusive QR Code for more effective inspection. As an interactive platform, the veterinary hospital cloud service platform allows pet owners gaining the knowledge of pet diseases and healthcare. Moreover, pet owners can enquire and communicate with veterinarians through the platform. Also, veterinary hospitals can periodically send reminders of relevant points and introduce exclusive marketing information with the platform for promoting the service items and establishing individualized marketing. Consequently, veterinary hospitals can increase the profits by information share and create the best solution in such a competitive veterinary market with industry alliance.

A new approach to road accident rescue

OBJECTIVE

This article develops and validates a new methodology and tool for rescue assistance in traffic accidents, with the aim of improving its efficiency and safety in the evacuation of people, reducing the number of victims in road accidents.

METHOD

Different tests supported by professionals and experts have been designed under different circumstances and with different categories of damaged vehicles coming from real accidents and simulated trapped victims in order to calibrate and refine the proposed methodology and tool.

RESULTS

To validate this new approach, a tool called App_Rescue has been developed. This tool is based on the use of a computer system that allows an efficient access to the technical information of the vehicle and sanitary information of the common passengers. The time spent during rescue using the standard protocol and the proposed method was compared.

CONCLUSION

This rescue assistance system allows us to make vital information accessible in posttrauma care services, improving the effectiveness of interventions by the emergency services, reducing the rescue time and therefore minimizing the consequences involved and the number of victims. This could often mean saving lives. In the different simulated rescue operations, the rescue time has been reduced an average of 14%.

A cloud medication safety support system using QR code and Web services for elderly outpatients

BACKGROUND

Drug is an important part of disease treatment, but medication errors happen frequently and have significant clinical and financial consequences. The prevalence of prescription medication use among the ambulatory adult population increases with advancing age. Because of the global aging society, outpatients need to improve medication safety more than inpatients.

OBJECTIVE

The elderly with multiple chronic conditions face the complex task of medication management. To reduce the medication errors for the elder outpatients with chronic diseases, a cloud medication safety supporting system is designed, demonstrated and evaluated.

METHODS

The proposed system is composed of a three-tier architecture: the front-end tier, the mobile tier and the cloud tier. The mobile tier will host the personalized medication safety supporting application on Android platforms that provides some primary functions including reminders for medication, assistance with pill-dispensing, recording of medications, position of medications and notices of forgotten medications for elderly outpatients. Finally, the hybrid technology acceptance model is employed to understand the intention and satisfaction level of the potential users to use this mobile medication safety support application system.

RESULTS

The result of the system acceptance testing indicates that this developed system, implementing patient-centered services, is highly accepted by the elderly.

CONCLUSION

This proposed M-health system could assist elderly outpatients' homecare in preventing medication errors and improving their medication safety.

Utility of QR codes in biological collections

The popularity of QR codes for encoding information such as URIs has increased exponentially in step with the technological advances and availability of smartphones, digital tablets, and other electronic devices. We propose using QR codes on specimens in biological collections to facilitate linking vouchers' electronic information with their associated collections. QR codes can efficiently provide such links for connecting collections, photographs, maps, ecosystem notes, citations, and even GenBank sequences. QR codes have numerous advantages over barcodes, including their small size, superior security mechanisms, increased complexity and quantity of information, and low implementation cost. The scope of this paper is to initiate an academic discussion about using QR codes on specimens in biological collections.