bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Convergence of AI and Cloud Engineering for Robust Cybersecurity
Authors: Oduri Sailesh
Published: August 2024

The convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cloud engineering is revolutionizing the field of cybersecurity, offering innovative solutions to protect against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. This article explores the integration of AI technologies, such as machine learning and natural language processing, with cloud-based systems to enhance threat detection, automate security protocols, and provide scalable cybersecurity solutions. As cyber threats grow more complex, the synergy between AI and cloud engineering enables real-time, automated responses that significantly improve the effectiveness of cybersecurity measures. The article examines current trends, core technologies, and methodologies that underpin this convergence, highlighting the enhanced capability to detect anomalies and potential breaches swiftly. However, this integration also introduces challenges such as privacy concerns, management complexity, and cost implications, necessitating a balanced approach to implementing these technologies. Through case studies, this research illustrates successful implementations and draws lessons to guide future cybersecurity strategies. The article concludes by discussing the future outlook of AI and cloud engineering in cybersecurity, urging practitioners and policymakers to continue exploring this promising field to stay ahead of cyber adversaries. This comprehensive review underscores the transformative potential of AI and cloud engineering in cybersecurity and calls for ongoing research and investment to harness these technologies effectively.
Uncertainty and Spatial Correlation in Station Measurements for mb Magnitude Estimation
Authors: Yeck William L. , Ringler Adam T. , Shelly David R. , Earle Paul , Benz Harley , Wilson David C.
Published: August 2024

The body-wave magnitude (mb) is a long-standing network-averaged, amplitude-based magnitude used to estimate the magnitude of seismic sources from teleseismic observations. The U.S. Geological Survey National Earthquake Information Center (NEIC) relies on mb in its global real-time earthquake monitoring mission. Although waveform modeling-based moment magnitudes are the modern standard to characterize earthquake size, mb is important because (1) in many cases, waveform modeling is not possible (e.g., low signal-to-noise events), (2) mb is applicable over a broad range of magnitudes, ∼M 4–7, and (3) there is a many decades-long history of estimating mb magnitudes. We use the NEIC Preliminary Determination of Epicenters earthquake catalog to investigate the uncertainty in NEIC station mb measurements. We show that mb measurements are spatially correlated, which can bias event mb, and we describe an empirical relation between this spatial correlation and station-to-station distance. We further describe an approach to mitigate bias from the spatial correlation. Accounting for the spatial covariance of observations can change the event mb from −0.15 to 0.07 mb units (10th to 90th percentile) for smaller events (mb≤4.5). These smaller events have the largest mb standard deviations ranging from 0.05 to 0.15 mb units (10th to 90th percentile).
STABILIZATION OF DISCRETE 2D LINEAR SYSTEMS IN FORNASINI-MARCHESINI MODEL
Authors: Tra My Luu
Published: August 2024

This paper is concerned with the stabilization problem of discrete 2D linear systems described by the second Fornasini-Marchesini model. A necessary and sufficient condition involving the characteristic polynomial is first quoted by which the unforced system is structurally or exponentially stable. On the basis of the derived stability condition, a tractable condition is formulated in the form of linear matrix inequality for obtaining the controller gain of a desired stabilizing state-feedback controller.
Securing Democratic Elections to Protect E-Voting System via Cryptography in the United States
Authors:   Graduate Assistant, Cyber Forensics MS Program, University of Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, Emeksiz Ekrem Ersen
Published: August 2024

Electronic voting was proposed as an alternative and more reliable solution to the traditional voting system in the United States. Early efforts to integrate the old system into the new voting system consisted of various challenges. For instance, attackers, manipulators, or other criminal groups can collaborate with corrupt politicians and election officers who have falsified scores. Therefore, researches of various scholars were examined towards designing a highly secured e-voting system that would prevent hackers, corrupt politicians, and election officers from leveraging any form of fraudulent activities. The world cannot be a credible place without trustful elections to do anything. The purpose of this paper is to review the literature from different scholars and identify shortcomings in designing highly secured cryptographic methods to focus on current practices and future considerations of the United States`s e-voting system.
Beta-alanine promotes angiogenesis in laser-induced choroidal neovascularization mice models
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People’s Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China, Wu Jia-Li , Sun Xiao-Dong ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People’s Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai 200080, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai 200080, China
Published: August 2024

AIM: To investigate the effect of β-alanine (BA) on laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) mice models.
METHODS: Laser-induced CNV mice models were established, and BA was administrated for one week and two weeks in advance, separately. Furthermore, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-choroid flat mounts were separated, and immunohistochemical staining was performed. The laser-induced CNV lesion areas were measured and compared. In addition, liver and kidney morphologies were observed to identify potential hepatorenal toxicity.
RESULTS: Enlarged CNV lesion areas were observed in the BA treated group. No significant differences were observed in the liver and kidney sections between groups.
CONCLUSION: BA treatment increase CNV lesion areas, suggesting the detrimental effects of BA as a nutritional supplement in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) population.
Early clinical outcome with lens position adjustment following implantable collamer lens surgery
Authors:   Refractive Surgery Department, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Tianjin Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, Tianjin 300384, China; Refractive Surgery Department, Aier Eye Hospital, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300190, China, Zhang Qian , Yang Xue-Fei ,   Refractive Surgery Department, Aier Eye Hospital, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300190, China, Liu Zhang-Lin ,   Refractive Surgery Department, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Tianjin Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, Tianjin 300384, China, Huang Yue ,   Refractive Surgery Department, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Tianjin Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, Tianjin 300384, China
Published: August 2024

AIM: To observe early clinical outcome with lens position adjustment following the implantable collamer lens (ICL) surgery.
METHODS: Sixty patients were selected for this retrospective study. One eye from each patient received Toric ICL for astigmatism correction, and the other received non-astigmatic ICL surgery using horizontal position. Patients with higher postoperative arch height were selected, and their non-astigmatic eye clinical outcome were observed after ICL surgery at 1wk, 1, and 3mo. The clinical measurements included uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), refractive state, corneal endothelium cell count, and arch height. Three months later, the ICL in each patient’s non-astigmatic eye was adjusted to the vertical from the horizontal position. The results were compared before and 1wk, 1, and 3mo after adjustment.
RESULTS: UCVA and IOP were significantly reduced 1wk after position adjustment compared to 1wk after ICL implantation (P<0.05). The patients demonstrated significantly reduced arch height and corneal endothelium cell count 1wk, 1, and 3mo after adjusting position compared to 1wk, 1, and 3mo after ICL implantation (P<0.05). However, there was no significant difference in refraction between 1wk, 1, and 3mo after ICL implantation and position adjustment (P>0.05).
CONCLUSION: Early positioning adjustment post-phakic ICL implantation can benefit patients with adjusted arch height or higher IOP. Despite the good clinical effects, the doctors should pay attention to the potential for adverse effects on UCVA and corneal endothelium cells following early position adjustment after posterior chamber phakic ICL implantation.
Smart Healthcare Based Living Extending Smart Home Using Internet of Things
Authors: Majhi Mou , Mukherjee Subhojit , Nandy Ratul
Published: August 2024

In the last few years, it has been noticed that the people are moving their attention to the idea of a smart home. But the main challenges are privacy, uninterrupted connectivity, ensuring safety of the data, making the right decision and of course identifying and authenticating the right person and right device. The existing automation system is targeting one or two of these issues whereas the actual need of the time is to stay fit along with all the smart facilities. In the present era of rat-race, it has become a very tough job to take care of one’s own health. Now a days, people get easily effected with various diseases as the immunity power is very low. In this research paper, we are trying to present a novel idea of that smart home which not only uses machine learning algorithm to make intelligent decisions or using block chain technology to ensure authentication or identification of the IoT devices perfect but will also help people to stay fit. This smart healthcare based living extending smart home using internet of things can easily be controlled by your voice or can also be operated by your smartphone or smart watch. With a lot of fitness activity options, it will help people to take care of their own health at their house with very minimum amount of time. This easy to use healthcare equipment can be included at the home by simple optimization of the existing furniture.
The Effectiveness of Indian Music in Emotion Pattern Recognition under the Framework of Machine Intelligence
Authors: Das Paromita , Neogi Biswarup
Published: August 2024

Experts in music therapy has suggested music as an aid to give the positive state of mind by keeping all sorts of depression and anxiety away. Music helps to bring back the original state of vibration by controlling our emotions [1]. A music is a combined effect of melody, the singer’s voice, and linguistics. The singer voice expresses the singer’s emotion like glad sorrow, anxiety, peace, tiredness and which in turns control the listener’s mental state. Indian music is analyzed and an approach for information retrieval to propose a therapeutic system through detection and identification of Indian music is initiated. Music Information Retrieval is a powerful tool to analyze different characteristics of a music. However, in this approach different traits of music are studied, and categorization has been done which leads to the therapeutic cause.
Study of Online Pre-admission Enquiry Prediction under the Framework of k-Nearest Neighbor (k-NN) Algorithm
Authors: Roy Bidyut , Pramanik Bablu , Srivastav Manoj Kumar
Published: August 2024

Admission to an appropriate college is an important process. The method of enquiry is an important part of it. As a result, students gather data, analyse it, and attempt to predict which college is best for them to attend. In general, students find it useful to research the trends in fee structures, academic staff numbers, multi-national companies tie up, and placements received by students during that academic year. K-Nearest Neighbors (k-NN) is one of the simplest learning algorithms used in supervised learning approaches. It makes assumptions about the similarity between new cases or data and available cases and places new cases in the category that most closely resembles the available categories. In this paper, the authors have tried to identify or predict the category or class of a particular dataset using the k-NN algorithm.
Maximizing the Efficiency of Multi Agents based Systems in a Synchronous Environment
Authors: Thakur Chandanita , Gupta Shibakali
Published: August 2024

Evaluation of performance and efficiency is an important ingredient for any system design. A system can be comprised many components. Components can be hardware or software. Each component needs technical support to have proper cooperation among them. Cooperation can be better provided if they have autonomy, reasoning, proactivity, mobility and capability of learning. These qualities are inherent for Agents. Software Agents can cooperate, coordinate and negotiate much better than the way we cooperate, coordinate and negotiate with each other. So it is obvious that the system designed with the cooperation of multiple Agents i.e. Multi Agent System can produce higher throughput than most of the other existing systems .So the aim of the present work is to analyze and make a relationship between multiple Agent properties like proactivity, learning, reasoning, mobility, etc. and finally proposing an efficient algorithm to calculate the efficiency of Agents based on their properties and make them to work simultaneously in a multi Agent environment, for satisfying several goals.
Mathematical Modelling of Transmission of Covid-19 in Indian Context: An Impact of Lockdown
Authors: Mandal Priyanka , Chatterjee Ayan
Published: August 2024

Mathematical Modelling study has been carried out to model the out spread of Covid-19 in a localized society of India. Based on the transmission mechanism of Covid-19 authors established dynamics model of six chambers with population birth rate and mortality. Ordinary differential equations are used to model the system mathematically and solved numerically using ODE23 scheme. India imposes lockdown in very early stage of the Covid-19 transmission and impact of lockdown has been discussed through the mathematical model. Parameters are considered in view of the March scenario in India and the impact we got is quite similar with the present situation.
An Explainable Hybrid Intelligent System for Prediction of Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Majumder Annwesha Banerjee , Gupta Somsubhra , Singh Dharmpal , Majumder Sourav
Published: August 2024

Cardiovascular disease is one the major cause of death around the world. Even while medical science continues to assist efforts to save lives, qualified medical professionals are still in limited. Accurate diagnosis at the right time is crucial in cardiovascular disease cases, as patients might live a long life with the right medical care. Machine learning and artificial intelligence have a significant impact on the early and precise prediction of cardiovascular disease. In this paper a machine learning based model for cardiovascular disease prediction has been proposed applying Logistics Regression, Naïve Bayes, K-Nearest Neighbor, Support Vector machine, Kernel SVM, Decision Tree classifier, Random Forest and Artificial Neural network with model explanation using Explainable AI. Based on the precision, specificity, and sensitivity scores of each method, the most effective one has been selected. Local Interpretable Model Agnostic Explanation (LIME) and Shapely Value (SHAP) have been used for model explanation.
User Profiling Behaviour and Activity of Persistent Surveillance of User Activity in Complex Networks
Authors: Dey Koustav , Bera Pratik
Published: August 2024

The objective of this paper is to study the behaviour of multiple user activity on network traffic.
The traditional approach of using the source IP address as a tracking identifier does not work when used to identify mobile users. Insider misuse has become a significant issue for organizations. Traditional information security has focused on threats from outside rather than employees. A wide range of concepts has been undertaken to develop approaches to detecting the insider.
Recent efforts to address this problem by exclusively not relying on web browsing behaviour, collecting data from routers, and predicting human psychology (when a router receives a packet, the router checks its routing table to determine if the table lists the destination address in the header. If the table does not contain the destination address, the router forwards the packet to another router that is listed in its routing table).
This paper builds the concept of tracking behaviour-based identification of multiple user activity on a router. Here we find out the traffic of HTTP or HTTPS Protocol and the Results are promising. find out as the result we are capable of tracking human psychology.
Solution of Lane-Emden Type Differential Equations by Using Differential Transform Method
Authors: Biswas Asim , Mondal Subhabrata , Chatterjee Ayan
Published: August 2024

The temperature in a self-gravitating star has been widely described in astrophysics by the Lane-Emden differential equation. To solve the non-linear equations, the Lane-Emden differential equation is used as a prototype for testing new mathematical and numerical techniques. The problems of singular initial value of Lane-Emden type was solved by the Differential Transform Method in this study. This method is applicable to solve various linear and nonlinear problems which decrease size of computational work. Here, we introduced some numerical problems to describe the high accuracy and efficiency of our proposed method.
The role of social capital in enhancing the welfare of pre-prosperous families
Authors: Hasbiah Sitti , Bado Basri , Tahir Thamrin , Hasan Muhammad
Published: August 2024

This study delves into the intricate relationship between social capital and the economic resilience of pre-prosperous families in South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia, focusing mainly on the elements of trust, reciprocal relationships, and social networks. A quantitative research methodology was employed, and a sample of 217 impoverished families was randomly selected from a total population of 103,015 households spanning nine regencies and cities within the province. Through the application of structural equation modeling, the research demonstrates the substantial impact of social capital on both household expenditure and the overall welfare of impoverished families, highlighting its fundamental role in bolstering economic well-being within these communities. The study's findings underscore the critical importance of social capital in not only augmenting household spending but also in enhancing the welfare of economically disadvantaged families, with broader implications for combating poverty, reducing socioeconomic disparities, and fostering sustainable economic progress throughout the region. By elucidating the ways in which social capital shapes the microeconomic resilience of families, this research highlights the transformative potential of social capital in driving economic development and improving the quality of life for less affluent households in South Sulawesi Province. Policymakers and practitioners can utilize these insights to develop targeted interventions that empower local residents, foster supportive networks, and ultimately bolster the economic resilience of disadvantaged families, contributing to sustainable development and poverty alleviation efforts.
An analysis of the characteristics of Indonesian pre-service science teachers’ compassion skills and gender roles
Authors: Budiarso Aris Singgih , Supeno Supeno , Mahardika I Ketut , Wahono Bevo
Published: August 2024

This research aims to analyze pre-service science teachers’ generosity, friendliness, wisdom, sensitivity, and tolerance as indicators of compassion skills, and explore gender roles on the characteristics of these skills. As 21st-century skills, compassion skills need to be conveyed through teachers’ attention, affection, kindness, and gentleness toward their students. These skills are fundamental for pre-service science teachers’ personality competence in supporting their role as future professional teachers. These skills also play an important role when there is interaction between teachers and students or among students during the learning process which affects learning outcomes. However, references concerning the characteristics of pre-service teachers’ compassion skills and the role of gender in these skills are underexplored. To address this gap, this research employed an exploratory method involving 107 pre-service science teachers at several state universities in Indonesia. Data was collected using a questionnaire that met validity and reliability criteria. The research results show that the teachers generally demonstrate a high/very high extent of compassion skills. The results also point to the fact that gender differences pose no significant influence on compassion skills. The implication highlights the necessity to focus on training pre-service science teachers’ compassion skills, while undermining any anxiety due to gender differences.
Diffusion of innovative soil management practices for sustainable vegetable farming
Authors: Barau Aliyu Akilu , Haruna Sa’adu
Published: August 2024

Vegetable farmers in Sokoto state, Nigeria are disadvantaged by problem soils that are generally low in nutrient content, leading to below optimum output. As a result, this research was undertaken to disseminate innovative soil management practices through participatory on-farm trials using household waste compost, vermicompost, and biochar as treatments toward ensuring sustainable vegetable farming. The research covered a sequence of 3 main activities; including baseline survey through focus group discussion (FGD), pre and post project soil sample analyses (0-15cm and 15-30cm depths) and trials, and dissemination of findings via result demonstration, respectively. Findings from the baseline revealed that, the vegetable farmers were vulnerable and never had contact with an extension worker, living below $50/month and confronted by dwindling vegetable output due to acidity and low nutrient content of the soil. Amaranth, cabbage, lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and carrot were the mainly cultivated vegetables by the farmers. Soil management practices in the research sites were occasional application of inorganic fertilizers and traditional application of municipal waste, crop residue and refuse, which was due to inadequate knowledge on sustainable management practices of the soil. Application of organic amendments including household waste compost, vermicompost, and biochar caused tremendous variation in post-project soil properties (EC, K, Na, Ca, Mg, CEC, N, OC and P). Similarly, yield and benefit cost ratio of the trial crop (amaranth) significantly improved due to the amendments. Hence, application of organic soil amendments especially household waste and biochar would be worthwhile for sustainability of vegetable farming in Sokoto state, Nigeria.
Dynamics of structural indices and organic carbon pool across a haplic acrisol under secondary tropical rainforest at Umudike Abia State
Authors: Tochukwu Amanze  Chikamnele , Comfort Nwosu Ogochukwu , Francisca Eluagu Kelechi , Kalu Ibe Olughu
Published: August 2024

Differences in vegetation types over a landscape influences the structural behaviour and organic carbon pool of soils thereby affecting site-specific management decisions. This study aimed at establishing the differences in structural indices and organic carbon pool across a soil under secondary rainforest vegetation. Nine replicates of auger and core soil samples were randomly collected from the site at 0 – 20 cm depth. Soil samples were prepared and analysed at a laboratory. Data obtained were subjected to geospatial analysis using a Geographical Information System (GIS) software package. Results showed that changes in organic carbon storage ranged from 40 – 48 ton / ha, BD ranged from 1.39 – 1.42 mg / m3, clay flocculation index ranged from 50 – 68 %, aggregated silt + clay ranged from 9 – 12 %, clay dispersion index ranged from 32 – 42 %, dispersion ratio ranged from 26 – 32 %, mean weight diameter ranged from 0.75 – 1.05 mm, saturated hydraulic conductivity ranged from 3.1 – 3.8 cm / mins and total porosity ranged from 46.4 – 47.6 %. Regions of weak micro aggregaion dominated the land while regions of increased stability of macro aggregates were dominant. Regions of increased soil organic carbon storage occupied about half portion of the land. Greater portion of the land was noted for increased bulk density, reduced total porosity and saturated hydraulic conductivity. Consequently, there were changes in soil structural properties and organic carbon storage across the studied area.
Evaluating the frequency and risk factors of multidrug-resistant bacteria in biliary samples
Authors: Yildiz Mehmet , Buyukkoruk Merve , Arslan Seyma , Gokalp Ulas , Bostanci Hasan , Dikmen Kursat , Buyukkasap Cagri , Ozger Hasan Selcuk , Dizbay Murat
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria in biliary samples, MDR-bacteria risk factors, and the relationship between MDR-bacteria positivity and some clinical outcomes.
Materials and Methods: The study was conducted between May 2018 and May 2023, including patients over the age of 18 who had positive culture results in biliary samples. The frequency of MDR-bacteria in biliary samples was evaluated. Risk factors for MDR bacteria were assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses. MDR and non-MDR groups were compared inappropriate empirical antibiotic treatment, total antibiotic treatment duration, length of stay, and in-hospital mortality.
Results: 342 microorganisms were isolated from 202 patients. Escherichia coli was the most commonly (37.2%) isolated Gram-negative microorganism, and Enterococcus spp. was the most commonly (70.2%) isolated Gram-positive microorgan- ism. The incidence of MDR microorganisms was 42.3%. Gastrointestinal malignancy (OR: 1.96; 95% CI, 1.03-3.71) and previous antibiotic use (OR: 2.26; 95% CI, 1.09-4.68) were independent risk factors for MDR-bacteria. In the MDR group, inappropriate empirical antibiotic treatment (56.6% vs. 41%, p = 0.091), total antibiotic treatment duration (13 vs. 8 days, p = 0.054), length of stay (24 vs. 15 days, p = 0.001), and in-hospital mortality (27.3% vs. 22.3%, p = 0.416) were higher compared to the non-MDR group.
Conclusion: MDR-bacteria positivity is associated with inappropriate antibiotic treatment, prolonged hospitalization, and increased mortality. Screening, antibiotic prophylaxis, and empirical treatment approaches should be carefully performed in patients with malignancy and recent antibiotic use, which are significant risk factors for MDR-bacteria.
Evaluating the antibacterial, antibiofilm, and anti-toxigenic effects of postbiotics from lactic acid bacteria on Clostridium difficile
Authors: Ozma Mahdi Asghari , Hosseini Hamideh Mahmoodzadeh , Ataee Mohammad Hossein , Mirhosseini Seyed Ali
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: The most common cause of healthcare-associated diarrhea is Clostridium difficile infection (CDI), which causes severe and recurring symptoms. The increase of antibiotic-resistant C. difficile requires alternate treat- ments. Postbiotics, metabolites produced by probiotics, fight CDI owing to their antibacterial capabilities. This study aims to evaluate the antibacterial, antibiofilm, and anti-toxigenic potential of postbiotics in combating CDI.
Materials and Methods: GC-MS evaluated postbiotics from Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus plantarum. Disk diffusion and broth microdilution determined C. difficile antibacterial inhibition zones and MICs. Microtiter plates assessed antibiofilm activity. MTT assay evaluated postbiotics anti-viability on HEK293. ELISA testing postbiotic detoxification of toxins A and B. Postbiotics were examined for tcdA and tcdB genes expression using real-time PCR.
Results: The most identified B. bifidum and L. plantarum postbiotic compounds were glycolic acid (7.2%) and butyric acid (13.57%). B. bifidum and L. plantarum displayed 13 and 10 mm inhibition zones and 2.5 and 5 mg/ml MICs against C. difficile. B. bifidum reduced biofilm at 1.25 mg/ml by 49% and L. plantarum by 31%. MTT assay showed both postbiotics had little influence on cell viability, which was over 80%. The detoxification power of postbiotics revealed that B. bifidum decreased toxin A and B production more effectively than L. plantarum, and also their related tcdA and tcdB genes expression reduction were statistically significant (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Postbiotics' ability to inhibit bacterial growth, biofilm disruption, and toxin reduction makes them a promising adjunctive for CDI treatment and a good solution to pathogens' antibiotic resistance.
Sequence analysis of isolated strains of herpes zoster virus among patients with shingles
Authors: Mohammed Shallal Mohammed Jasim , Nasser Hind Ali , Hassen Naif Alaa Abdul
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: Herpes zoster, or shingles, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which initially presents as chickenpox in children. VZV is a global health concern, especially in winter and spring, affecting 10-20% of adults over 50 and posing a 30% risk for the general population. This study used PCR to detect VZV, confirming results with duplicated DNA samples and identifying 234 bp fragments by targeting the gpB gene.
Materials and Methods: This study examined 50 herpes zoster cases from October 2020 to April 2021, involving 30 males and 20 females aged 10 to 90, diagnosed by dermatologists. Data were collected via a questionnaire. PCR detected VZV by amplifying the gpB and MCP genes from skin lesion samples. Six positive 234-bp PCR products were sequenced at Macro- gen Inc. in Seoul, South Korea.
Results: Six DNA samples with 234 bp amplicons were sequenced, showing 99-100% similarity to human alpha herpesvirus sequences in the gpB gene. NCBI BLAST matched these sequences to a reference (GenBank acc. MT370830.1), assigning accession numbers LC642111, LC642112, and LC642113. Eight nucleic acid substitutions caused amino acid changes in the gpB protein: isoleucine to threonine, serine to isoleucine, and threonine to Proline. These variants were deposited in NCBI GenBank as gpB3 samples.
Conclusion: The study found high sequence similarity to known VZV sequences, identifying six nucleic acid variations and eight SNPs. Notable amino acid changes in the gpB protein were deposited in NCBI GenBank as the gpB3 sample.
Effect of low concentrations of lactic acid and temperature on the expression of adhesion, invasion, and toxin-encoding genes of Campylobacter jejuni from poultry
Authors: Jadidi Aliakbar , Ghasemian Abdolmajid , Abdollahi Abbas , Abbasi-Dokht Tannaz , Abdollahzadeh Esmail , Baharlou Rasoul
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: The consumption of contaminated poultry meat is considered as a significant route of campy- lobacteriosis transmission. Lactic acid is a disinfectant agent with bactericidal effects on Campylobacter spp. The purpose of this study was to assess the low concentrations of lactic acid effect and different temperatures on the transcriptomic responses of Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni) adhesion and virulence-associated genes including peb4, ciaB, cdtA, cdtB, and cdtC.
Materials and Methods: The samples were incubated at 10°C and 22°C for 48 h upon exposure to 30% and 60% lactic acid. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of lactic acid was also determined. Then, gene expression was assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
Results: Lactic acid had lower MIC and MBC levels at lower temperature. The utilization of both levels of lactic acid signifi- cantly reduced the expression of peb4, ciaB, cdtB, and cdtC genes over 48 h of incubation at 22°C. However, no significant difference was found in the expression of the cdtA gene between 10 and 22°C at 30% lactic acid.
Conclusion: These results highlight the potential of low-concentration lactic acid in the downregulation of adhesion and virulence-associated genes as well as reduction of C. jejuni pathogenicity.
Recombinant outer membrane protein Lipl41 from Leptospira interrogans robust immune responses in mice model
Authors: Golab Narges , Khaki Pejvak , Tebianian Majid , Esmaelizad Majid , Harzandi Naser
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: Leptospirosis is an infectious zoonotic disease that can result in severe complications. It is widespread, especially in hot and humid climates such as the northern region of Iran. The immune responses to leptospirosis are multifaceted. Lipl41 is an outer membrane protein that is expressed during infection and is highly conserved among pathogenic species. This makes it a good candidate for diagnosis and induction of specific immune responses. The aim of the present study was to evaluate immune responses against recombinant Lipl41 in mice.
Materials and Methods: After immunizing of different groups of mice with recombinant Lipl41 (rLipl41), the levels of specific antibodies and cytokine profiles interferon-gamma/ interleukin-4 (IFN-γ/IL-4) were measured.
Results: The results revealed that rLipl41 showed a significant increase in antibody levels compared with the control groups (P< 0.05). Although the level of IL-4 in the groups that received Lipl41 was similar to that in the other control groups, the IFN-γ levels showed a significant increase (P<0.05).
Conclusion: It has been concluded that recombinant Lipl41 protein could strongly stimulate specific immune responses and be considered a potential candidate for vaccine development and diagnostic research
Prevalence and diversity of enteric Helicobacter spp. in healthy and diarrheic cats
Authors: Ahmadi Reza , Arfaee Farnoosh , Jamshidi Shahram , Mortazavi Pejman , Jamshidian Mahmoud
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: Helicobacters are gastric and enterohepatic and live in the gut. The role of enterohepatic Heli- cobacters as intestinal pathogens is uncertain, while stomach Helicobacters are well-known. The prevalence of Helicobacter species in cat feces helps us understand their impact on cat health and human disease transmission. This study used PCR to identify Helicobacter spp. in feces samples from healthy and diarrhoeic cats, independent of the reason. The study also compared intestinal and stomach Helicobacter species.
Materials and Methods: PCR analysis was performed on fecal samples from 40 cats, with 20 cats having diarrhea and 20 cats showing no symptoms. The PCR analysis aimed to detect Helicobacter's presence using a method that identifies the bacteria through the 16S rRNA gene.
Results: The diarrhoeic group had a greater prevalence of infection (17:9 ratio), with an overall 65% infection rate detected. Cats that were older than 2 years showed a higher incidence of disease. H. canis had the highest occurrence rate (69.2%), followed by H. bilis, H. bizzozeronii, and H. salomonis. Significantly, H. pylori, H. felis, and H. heilmannii were not reported.
Conclusion: H. canis was the predominant species found in both healthy and diarrheic cats, indicating the need for more in- vestigation. The detection of the gastric species H. salomonis and H. bizzozeronii further complicates the classification. This highlights the complex nature of Helicobacter infections in cats, emphasizing the need for further investigation to guide the development of preventative measures and treatment techniques for both veterinary and public health purposes.
Investigation of eye flora in cats infected with Herpesvirus and Calicivirus
Authors: Vazifeh Mojtaba Mohammadzadeh , Haas Gazelle Safavi , Haghdoost Nakisa Sohrabi , Aftab Ghazal
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: The ocular surface is perpetually exposed to the external environment, rendering it suscep- tible to microbial contamination. The ocular surface microbiota consists of non-pathogenic microorganisms that inhabit the conjunctiva and cornea. This study's objective was to extensively review the prevalence of bacterial and fungal organisms in the conjunctiva of healthy and diseased cats. (Herpes- and Calici-infected groups).
Materials and Methods: The current study was performed on 240 cats that had visited veterinary health centers (Tehran, Iran) for examination. Sterile swabs from each cat's eyes were investigated for microbiological assessment. After sample collection, viral pathogens (Herpes and Calici viruses) were isolated and identified using the PCR method. The ages of the investigated group were 3.76, 3.93, and 4.15 months.
Results: The highest frequency of bacteria in the normal, Herpes-infected/Calici-infected, and Herpes/Calici-infected groups were associated with Staphylococcus intermedius and Streptococcus agalactiae, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Staphylo- coccus intermedius, respectively. In addition, it was found that the high prevalence of fungal microorganisms in the isolated samples was related to yeasts, Aspergillus (Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger), and Penicillium species.
Conclusion: Bacterial prevalence was significantly higher in all groups than the prevalence of fungi in the eyes of cats. The statistical comparison between the study groups regarding microbial and fungal frequency showed that significant differences were found between them, such that the frequency was higher in all disease groups, against the control group. In addition, a significant relation was observed between the Herpes-infected and Calici-infected groups regarding microbial and fungal prevalence.
Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Brucellosis in Abattoir Workers in Fars Province, Iran
Authors: Zakeri Alireza , Montaseri Maryam , Shekarforoush Seyed Shahram
Published: August 2024

Background & Objectives: Brucellosis remains an important occupational zoonotic disease, especially in developing countries. The disease is endemic in Iran and the Fars province. One of the main routes of brucellosis infection is at slaughterhouses, where the workers directly contact infected animals. This study was designed to estimate the seroprevalence of brucellosis among slaughterhouse workers in the Fars province, Iran.
Materials & Methods: Ninety blood samples were collected from workers of two livestock slaughterhouses (Marvdasht and Kazeroon), in Fars, Iran. The sera were assessed for the Rose Bengal test (RBT), as a screening test for brucellosis, and the positive samples were subjected to the Wright test. The positive Wright samples were finally tested for the 2 -mercaptoethanol (2 -ME) agglutination test.
Results: Brucellosis prevalence was 13.33% using RBT and 4.44% of the workers showed active brucellosis. No significant relationship was found between the questionnaire variables and brucellosis tests; exceptionally, there was a relationship between the workers' statements regarding having had brucellosis and RBT (P=0.01).
Conclusion : Our study highlights the practical application of serological tests, including RBT, Wright, and 2 - ME as a simple strategy to monitor brucellosis and to diagnose and treat its active form in endemic regions. Although a small frequency of the disease was found, it could cause significant health and economic damage to humans and animals in endemic areas. Furthermore, taking enough protective measures is highly recommended for slaughterhouse workers to prevent human brucellosis.
The Antimicrobial Effect of Lactobacillus casei against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli Isolated from Urinary Samples
Authors: Fateh Mozhgan , Foroohi Fatemeh , Rafiee Fatemeh
Published: August 2024

Background & Objectives : Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a serious issue affecting both men and women resulting from the invasion of microbial agents into the urinary system. This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial activity of Lactobacillus casei (L. casei) against Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolated from UTI.
Materials & Methods: In this study, 100 urine specimens were obtained from medical laboratories in western Tehran. E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates were identified and subsequently confirmed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Antibiotic susceptibility patterns were determined using the disk diffusion method. The antimicrobial activity of L. casei against these strains (four multidrug -resistant isolates from each species) was then evaluated using the agar well diffusion method.
Results: From 100 urine specimens, 76 E. coli and 14 K. pneumoniae isolates were identified. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed that imipenem and nitrofurantoin were the most effective antibiotics against E. coli, while amikacin demonstrated the highest efficacy against K. pneumonia e. In the agar well diffusion assay, L. casei generated growth inhibition zones measuring 19.8 mm ± 3 for E. coli and 20.3 mm ± 4 for K. pneumoniae .
Conclusions: Lactobacillus casei demonstrates notable antimicrobial efficacy against both E. coli and K. pneumoniae, suggesting its potential as an alternative therapeutic option for UTIs.
PHYSICAL, MECHANICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF NANOCELLULOSE FIBRE REINFORCED MORTAR
Authors:   Sheffield Hallam University, UK, Agunbiade Taiwo , Mangat P.S. ,   Sheffield Hallam University, UK
Published: August 2024

﻿The paper presents an experimental investigation to evaluate the potential use of a water-based nanocellulose fibre derived from wood pulp sourced from sustainably managed forests in the applications of cementitious materials. The effect of the fibrillated cellulose fibre and its water-based solution on the physical, mechanical, shrinkage, and pore properties of OPC (ordinary Portland cement) mortar was investigated. Xrd and ft-ir analyses were performed to evaluate oxide composition, hydration products, bond interactions and functional groups present in the hydration products of the mortar samples reinforced with cellulose fibre. The shrinkage crack prevention provided by the cellulose fibre reinforcement under long-term drying conditions was also evaluated. Cellulose fibres were added to the mortar mixes in increments from 0.15% to 1.5% by weight of mortar. Results from the investigation reveal that the addition of cellulose fibre into the mortar mixes has a significant effect on the rheology of the matrix. The addition of cellulose fibre into the mortar matrix results in less than 10% increase or reduction in flexural and compressive strength at fibre contents which produce a workable mix. Drying shrinkage data for the mortar mixes after 28 days show that cellulose fibre in small amounts reduces the drying shrinkage as observed for mixes with fibre content up to 0.45%. The differential cumulative pore volume curves produced by a mercury intrusion porosimeter show that the cellulose fibres in the mortar matrix affect the large capillary pore volume for all the mortar mixes. All mixes exhibit bimodal pore size distribution profiles. A optimum dosage of 0.45% CF resulted in minimum drying shrinkage and no cracking of the mortar.
A HYBRID GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMP SYSTEM DESIGN FOR SMALL RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS IN HOT-CLIMATE APPLICATIONS
Authors:   North Dakota State University, USA, Hu Xiaoou , Yu Yao ,   North Dakota State University, USA, Megri Ahmed ,   North Carolina A&T State University, USA, Xiao Xuelei ,   North Dakota State University, USA, Hamoush Sameer ,   North Carolina A&T State University, USA, Calfas George ,   US Army Corps of Engineers, ERDC-CERL, USA
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the potential integration of a dry fluid cooler with advanced control strategies into a vertical closed-loop GSHP (Ground Source Heat Pump) system. The aim is to reduce the size of underground boreholes and enhance cost-effectiveness without compromising efficiency. Envisioned as an innovative solution for the U.S. residential sector, the study explores the adoption of high-efficiency heat pump systems to replace conventional heating and cooling methods in hot and warm climates, such as in New Orleans. Simulation results reveal two significant findings: first, integrating a dry fluid cooler with advanced controls strategies can maintain system efficiency by effectively managing thermal energy exchange with the ground in hot climates, ensuring a balanced approach to heating and cooling. Second, this design has proven to be effective, especially in hot climate regions such as New Orleans, showcasing the potentials to reduce initial system costs by up to 8.6% by reducing borehole lengths while maintaining overall system efficiency.
VISUALIZATION OF INTERNAL DEFECTS IN CONCRETE USING RADAR IMAGES AND GENERATIVE ADVERSARIAL NETWORKS
Authors:   Hosei University, Japan, Mitsunaga Koki , Mitsutani Kazutaka ,   Nagoya University, Japan, Yamamoto Yoshihito ,   Hosei University, Japan, Sonoda Jun ,   Sendai National College of Technology, Japan, Kimoto Tomoyuki ,   Oita National College of Technology, Japan, Kanazawa Yasushi ,   Toyohashi University of Technology, Japan
Published: August 2024

In this study, the authors proposed a method to visualize cracks in concrete using pix2pix from radar images by adding quasi-3D information to improve the accuracy of the method. In a previous study, pix2pix was trained by acquiring many pairs of cross-sectional images of concrete containing defect information and corresponding radar images as training data sets, and a model was constructed to output a defect cross-sectional image from the radar image. In this study, we further attempted to apply a method to output a defect cross-section image from two radar images whose radar scanning positions are shifted in the depth direction by about the maximum size of coarse aggregate in concrete, and whose defect distribution information is almost the same, although the material distribution properties are different. The proposed method was found to be able to estimate defects with high accuracy even under conditions where conventional methods have lower accuracy.
MICRO-MECHANISM OF ROCK FATIGUE
Authors:   University of Strathclyde, UK, Hu Qinxin , Yang Shangtong ,   University of Strathclyde, UK, Shipton Zoe ,   University of Strathclyde, UK
Published: August 2024

Understanding damage evolution mechanism under cyclic loadings leading to brittle failure of rock materials can shed light on estimating and predicting life-cycle reliability of rock structures and rock engineering. Cyclic uniaxial compression loadings were performed on granite while acquiring X-ray tomograms and calculated strain fields using Digital Volume Correlation (DVC). The quantitative statistics of cracks reveals the dynamic closing, opening, nucleation and self-propagation of micro-cracks, and how micro-cracks coalesce to crack clusters and fault to fail finally. The strain fields reveal the relationship between strain localization and crack behaviours and reflect stress concentration zones under different damage level. Damage evolution is dominated by nucleation at initial cycles and transit to self-propagation and coalescence as cycles increased. DVC results reveal that distortion has the highest correlation to cracking. Apart from strain localization, damage evolution results in the larger deformation in unchanged microstructures zones. The result implicates the stress transfer is the main mechanism for fatigue damage.