bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ScAnalyzer: an image processing tool to monitor plant disease symptoms and pathogen spread in Arabidopsis thaliana leaves
Authors: Paauw Misha , Hardeman Gerrit , Pfeilmeier Sebastian , Burg Harrold A. Van den
Published: January 2024

Background
Plants are known to be infected by a wide range of pathogenic microbes. To study plant diseases caused by microbes, it is imperative to be able to monitor disease symptoms and microbial colonization in an quantitative and objective manner. In contrast to more traditional measures that use manual assignments of disease categories, image processing provides a more accurate and objective quantification of plant disease symptoms. Besides monitoring disease symptoms, it provides additional information on the spatial localization of pathogenic microbes in different plant tissues.
Results
Here we report on an image analysis tool called ScAnalyzer to monitor disease symptoms and bacterial spread in Arabidopsis thaliana leaves. Detached leaves are assembled in a grid and scanned, which enables automated separation of individual samples. A pixel color threshold is used to segment healthy (green) from diseased (yellow) leaf area. The spread of luminescence-tagged bacteria is monitored via light-sensitive films, which are processed in a similar way as the leaf scans. We show that this tool is able to capture previously identified differences in susceptibility of the model plant A. thaliana to the bacterial pathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris. Moreover, we show that the ScAnalyzer pipeline provides a more detailed assessment of bacterial spread within plant leaves than previously used methods. Finally, by combining the disease symptom values with bacterial spread values from the same leaves, we show that bacterial spread precedes visual disease symptoms.
Conclusion
Taken together, we present an automated script to monitor plant disease symptoms and microbial spread in A. thaliana leaves. The freely available software (https://github.com/MolPlantPathology/ScAnalyzer) has the potential to standardize the analysis of disease assays between different groups.
Visual responses of a dominant predatory beetle, Propylaea japonica (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), to light
Authors: Ge Yafei , Li Mengyao , Liu Yuxin , Jiang Yueli , Fan Fan , Li Bao , Hu Xuejiao , Wei Guoshu
Published: January 2024

Phototaxis, a visual behaviour of insects toward light, is used to monitor and control insect pests worldwide. However, certain pest control practices have raised concerns because of the unintended elimination of non-target insects. Additionally, artificial lighting has expanded owing to urbanization. We investigated the phototactic behaviour of the dominant predatory beetle, Propylaea japonica. We explored its visual responses to seven monochromatic lights at 365–655 nm wavelength and various intensities at the preferred wavelength. The highest response occurred at 365 nm (ultraviolet), followed by 465 and 525 nm. When only the light intensity at 365 nm was varied (10, 100, and 300 lux), the response to 365 nm at 10 lux decreased, and the strongest response shifted to 420 nm (violet), but the preference increased with elevated light intensity at 365 nm. Examining behavioural responses to light intensities at 1–5000 lux (365 nm), a preference for 1000–5000 lux was observed, although mixed populations (males and females) exhibited increased responses at 10–100 lux. Our results indicate a preference for shorter wavelengths (365 nm) across different light environments (wavelength) and underscore the role of light intensity in influencing wavelength selection in P. japonica. This study provides insights for the development of light sources for insect monitoring and pest control.
Effectiveness of a Virtual Reality Open-Air Bath Program in Reducing Loneliness and Improving Brain Function for Dementia Prevention in Older Adults: A Prospective Randomized Crossover Study Protocol
Authors: Imai Ayu , Matsuoka Teruyuki , Nakayama Chikara , Hashimoto Nana , Sano Mutsuo , Narumoto Jin
Published: January 2024

Background
Older adults often face loneliness due to chronic illness or loss of close ones, a situation worsened by COVID-19. Increased loneliness heightens the risk of diseases, especially dementia, necessitating urgent action. This study aims to assess the impact of a virtual reality (VR)-based open-air bath program on depression and loneliness in elderly individuals with Subjective Cognitive Decline/Mild Cognitive Impairment (SCD/MCI) attending our Dementia Medical Centre and evaluate the feasibility (participant recruitment and adherence) and measuring program enjoyment and satisfaction.
Methods
The study design is a crossover trial with a 1:1 ratio wherein 12 participants will be randomly assigned to Groups 1 and 2, with Group 2 serving as a waitlist control, and the VR program will be conducted six times (monthly). Group 1 will participate from the program's commencement and continue for 6 months, followed by an observation period from months 7 to 12. Group 2 will participate from months 7 to 12, with an observation period from months 1 to 6. Cognitive tests, psychiatric assessments, and the UCLA loneliness scale will be conducted before the study, at 6 months, and at 12 months. Results will be analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Head MRI and SPECT scans will be performed pre- and post-VR program to evaluate changes and effects on brain regions. Recruitment began in September 2023, and data collection is expected to be completed by March 2025. Complete study results will be published by September 2025.
Discussion
The study examines the preliminary effects of VR on loneliness in predementia seniors through open-air bath simulations. Virtual reality experiences could benefit this population, particularly those with limited outdoor activities. Quantifying VR's impact will aid in determining the size for a larger clinical trial. Qualitative results will inform participation mechanisms and guide the implementation and design of future trials.
Trial registration
: The protocol and informed consent were approved by the Ethical Review Board of Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine on October 31, 2023 (ERB-C-2978). The study has been registered in the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) on November 1, 2023 (Trial Registration Number: 000052667).
Incidence and Risk Factors of Retinopathy of Prematurity in Southeast Iran: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Maleki Alireza , Sargazi Meisam , Yousefian Ali , Sarhadi Saeedeh , Mollaei Maryam , Mohammadi Seyed Omid
Published: January 2024

Background and objectives:
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a significant cause of preventable premature infant vision loss. Many studies have reported different risk factors depending on the region. In this study, we evaluated the incidence of ROP and associated risk factors in a referral eye hospital in southeast Iran.
Methods
This was a retrospective cohort study of preterm infants with birth weight (BW) ≤ 2000 grams or gestational age (GA) ≤ 34weeks and infants with 34 < GA < 37weeks or GA < 37weeks and BW > 2000 grams referred by their pediatricians to our center from March 2022 until March 2023.
Results
920 infants met the inclusion criteria for the study, the incidence of ROP and severe ROP was 20.2% and 3.58% respectively. Results of logistic regression analysis showed higher GA and BW as protective factors against ROP occurrence. History of blood transfusion and phototherapy increased ROP development.
Conclusion
Lower GA, lower BW, history of blood transfusion, and phototherapy were associated with ROP development. Phototherapy decreased the need for treatment among ROP patients.
Nomograms for predicting prognosis in postoperative lip squamous cell carcinoma patients
Authors: Cheng Hao , Xu Jin-Hong , He Jia-Qi , Xu Xue-Lian
Published: January 2024

Background
Lip squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is the most commonly occurring oral cavity cancer. This study aimed to establish and validate comprehensive nomograms for predicting the prognosis in postoperative LSCC patients.
Methods
A total of 136 postoperative lip squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) patients diagnosed between June 2012 and June 2018 were enrolled from two medical institutions and randomly divided into the training and validation groups at a ratio of 7:3. According to the results of the univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, six independent indicators concerning overall survival (OS) were identified, including age, grade, T-stage, lymph node metastasis (LNM), perineural invasion (PNI), vascular invasion (VI), surgical margin. Besides, age, grade, T-stage, lymph node metastasis (LNM), perineural invasion (PNI), and surgical margin were independent predictors of disease-free survival (DFS) in LSCC patients. The two nomograms for predicting OS and DFS were developed based on the above results.
Results
The univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that higher pathological grade, age ≥ 70 years, higher T-stage, positive lymph node metastasis (LNM), perineural invasion (PNI), vascular invasion (VI), and positive surgical margin were independent predictors of inferior OS. Meanwhile, higher pathological grade, age ≥ 70 years, higher T-stage, LNM, PNI, and positive surgical margin were independent predictors of inferior DFS. Based on the results above, two nomograms were constructed to predict 3- and 5-year OS and DFS in patients with LSCC. The C-indexes of the OS and DFS nomograms were 0.865 and 0.801 in the training group, and 0.915 and 0.815 in the validation group. The calibration curves showed satisfactory consistency between predicted and actual observed survival rates. The outperformance of the nomogram compared with the other predictors involved was shown by the decision curve analysis (DCA). Kaplan-Meier curves revealed statistical discrimination for the high-, medium-, and low-risk groups.
Conclusion
Two nomograms for predicting OS and DFS in patients with postoperative LSCC developed in this study perform well, which may be helpful for oncologists and surgeons to choose proper individual therapeutic schedules and design appropriate follow-up strategies.
Optimized Approach for Near-Real-Time Three-Dimensional Water Vapor in the GNSS Based on the Informer Model
Authors: Yixin Zhu , Pengfei Xia , Shirong Ye , Zhimin Sha , Junfei Jiang , Shenglong E
Published: January 2024

The integration of near-real-time three-dimensional (3D) water vapor data into numerical weather prediction is crucial for monitoring and forecasting extreme weather events but faces various challenges. We focus on reconstructing the 3D water vapor field using Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) water vapor tomography techniques, emphasizing two primary concerns: achieving high-precision initial 3D water vapor values and effectively partitioning the vertical tomography grid. We introduce a novel real-time, high-precision water vapor prediction model, namely, the Informer-WV model, based on the Informer framework, whose predictions serve as the initial values for tomography. Furthermore, we propose an innovative method for nonuniform vertical delineation of the tomography grid in which the upper boundary height of the 3D tomography grid is determined by the vertical prediction accuracy of the model. For practical application purposes, Hong Kong, China, was chosen as the study area. The Informer-WV model, utilizing ERA5 reanalysis data, successfully predicted the regional water vapor density for 2022. The model demonstrated a remarkable prediction accuracy, with an annual root mean square error (RMSE) better than 0.80 g/m³ compared to the actual ERA5 values. Building on this high-precision prediction, we adjusted the upper boundary altitude of the tomography grid to 5.2 km, specifically for Hong Kong. By benchmarking against radiosonde-derived water vapor density data, we analyzed the near-real-time tomography inversion results for the two weakest prediction periods of the model. The RMSE of the water vapor inversion values derived from our optimized method was reduced to 1.26 g/m³. This approach not only improved the accuracy by 19% relative to the initial predictions but also significantly outperformed the traditional tomography method.
A bespoke rapid evidence review process engaging stakeholders for supporting evolving and time-sensitive policy and clinical decision-making: reflection and lessons learned from the Wales Covid-19 Evidence Centre 2021-23
Authors: Lewis Ruth , Cooper Alison , Jarrom David , Mann Mala , Law Rebecca-Jane , Edwards Deborah , Carrier Judith , Shaw Hannah , Winfield Tom , Spencer Llinos Haf , Noyes Jane , Morgan Helen , Washington Jenni , Hasler Elise , Gal Micaela , Doe Elizabeth , Joseph-Williams Natalie , Edwards Adrian
Published: January 2024

Background The COVID-19 pandemic presented policymakers with time-sensitive decision problems and a rapidly increasing volume of research, not all of which was robust, or relevant to local contexts. A bespoke evidence review process supporting stakeholder engagement was developed as part of the Wales COVID-19 Evidence Centre (WCEC), which could flexibly react to the needs of decision-makers, to address urgent requests within days or months as required.Aims To describe and appraise the WCEC review process and methods and identify key learning points.Methods Three types of rapid review products were used, which could accommodate the breadth of decision problems and topics covered. Stakeholder (including public) engagement was integrated from the onset and supported throughout. The methods used were tailored depending on the needs of the decision-maker, type of research question, timeframe, and volume and type of evidence. We appraised the overall process and compared the methods used with the most recent and relevant best practice guidance.Results The remote collaboration between research teams, establishing a clear pathway to impact upfront, and the strong stakeholder involvement embedded in the review process were considered particular strengths. Several key learning points were identified, which focused on: enhancing stakeholders’ abilities to identify focused policy-relevant research questions; the collection and storage of review protocols at a central location; tightening quality assurance process regarding study selection, data extraction and quality assessment; adequate reporting of methodological shortcuts and understanding by stakeholders; piloting of an algorithm for assigning study design descriptors, and a single quality assessment tool covering multiple study designs; and incorporate, where appropriate an assessment of the confidence in the overall body of evidence using GRADE or similar framework.Conclusions The review process enabled a high volume of questions that were directly relevant to policy and clinical decision making to be addressed in a timely manner using a transparent and tailored approach.
A pan-cancer agent for screening, resection and wound monitoring via NIR and SWIR imaging
Authors: Larney Benedict Mc , Sonay Ali , Apfelbaum Elana , Mostafa Nermin , Monette Sébastien , Goerzen Dana , Aguirre Nicole , Isaac Elizabeth , Phung Ngan , Skubal Magdalena , Kim Mijin , Ogirala Anuja , Veach Darren , Heller Daniel , Grimm Jan
Published: January 2024

Fluorescence guided surgery (FGS) facilitates real time tumor delineation and is being rapidly established clinically. FGS efficacy is tied to the utilized dye and provided tumor contrast over healthy tissue. Apoptosis, a cancer hallmark, is a desirable target for tumor delineation. Here, we preclinically in vitro and in vivo, validate an apoptosis sensitive commercial carbocyanine dye (CJ215), with absorption and emission spectra suitable for near infrared (NIR, 650-900nm) and shortwave infrared (SWIR, 900-1700nm) fluorescence imaging (NIRFI, SWIRFI). High contrast SWIRFI for solid tumor delineation is demonstrated in multiple murine and human models including breast, prostate, colon, fibrosarcoma and intraperitoneal colorectal metastasis. Organ necropsy and imaging highlighted renal clearance of CJ215. SWIRFI and CJ215 delineated all tumors under ambient lighting with a tumor-to-muscle ratio up to 100 and tumor-to-liver ratio up to 18, from 24 to 168 h post intravenous injection with minimal uptake in healthy organs. Additionally, SWIRFI and CJ215 achieved non-contact quantifiable wound monitoring through commercial bandages. CJ215 provides tumor screening, guided resection, and wound healing assessment compatible with existing and emerging clinical solutions.
Human versus Artificial Intelligence: ChatGPT-4 Outperforming Bing, Bard, ChatGPT-3.5, and Humans in Clinical Chemistry Multiple-Choice Questions
Authors: Sallam Malik , Al-Salahat Khaled , Eid Huda , Egger Jan , Puladi Behrus
Published: January 2024

Background
The advances in large language models (LLMs) are evolving rapidly. Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots based on LLMs excel in language understanding and generation, with potential utility to transform healthcare education and practice. However, it is important to assess the performance of such AI models in various topics to highlight its strengths and possible limitations. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the performance of ChatGPT (GPT-3.5 and GPT-4), Bing, and Bard compared to human students at a postgraduate master’s (MSc) level in Medical Laboratory Sciences.
Methods
The study design was based on the METRICS checklist for the design and reporting of AI-based studies in healthcare. The study utilized a dataset of 60 Clinical Chemistry multiple-choice questions (MCQs) initially conceived for assessment of 20 MSc students. The revised Bloom’s taxonomy was used as the framework for classifying the MCQs into four cognitive categories: Remember, Understand, Analyze, and Apply. A modified version of the CLEAR tool was used for assessment of the quality of AI-generated content, with Cohen’s κ for inter-rater agreement.
Results
Compared to the mean students’ score which was 40/60 (66.8%), GPT-4 scored 54/60 (90.0%), followed by Bing (46/60, 76.7%), GPT-3.5 (44/60, 73.3%), and Bard (40/60, 66.7%). Statistically significant better performance was noted in lower cognitive domains (Remember and Understand) in GPT-3.5, GPT-4, and Bard. The CLEAR scores indicated that ChatGPT-4 performance was “Excellent” compared to “Above average” performance of ChatGPT-3.5, Bing, and Bard.
Conclusions
The findings indicated that ChatGPT-4 excelled in the Clinical Chemistry exam, while ChatGPT-3.5, Bing, and Bard were above-average. Given that the MCQs were directed to postgraduate students with a high degree of specialization, the performance of these AI chatbots was remarkable. Due to the risks of academic dishonesty and possible dependence on these AI models, the appropriateness of MCQs as an assessment tool in higher education should be re-evaluated.
Multiclass Classification of Heterogeneous Blood Cells Using Deep Learning and contourlet Transform
Authors: Eslamifar Omid , Soltani Mohammadreza , Fatemi Mohammad Jalal Rastegr
Published: January 2024

The classification of human blood cells is very important in the diagnosis of inflammation, infection and blood disorders such as leukemia. Diagnosis of blood malignancies requires identification and classification of white blood cells in peripheral blood smear. The pathologist spends a lot of time analyzing blood cells to determine the minor differences between blood subsets. Due to the high similarity of blood types, human error is sometimes possible. Manual procedures for diagnosing blood diseases are time-consuming, subjective and prone to human error. Therefore, we need machine analysis of microscopic images. Usually, methods based on image processing contain limitations. On the other hand, with the increase in computational processing power in computer-based clinical diagnosis systems, it has enabled the use of machine learning methods. In this article, we will use the combination of deep learning; Gabor filter and wavelet transform to provide a high accuracy blood cells classification model while extracting features from macroscopic images. The basis of the current research is the classification of blood smear images using the combination of contourlet transform, recurrent neural network and optimization method. Feature extraction is based on the combination of wavelet transform and recurrent neural network and feature selection is based on the African vulture optimization method. Finally, an innovative classifier based on clustering is presented to classify different blood cells. Based on the results obtained on the set of Jiangxi Tecom images, the proposed design has achieved an acceptable accuracy and has been able to increase the precision, recall and F-Measure.
Acceptability and Feasibility of Using Point of Care Ultrasound Scan Among Health Care Professionals in Eastern Uganda: a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Okiror William , Namayanja Cate , Okalebo Charles Benard , Eregu Egiru Emma Isiah , Ongodia Paul , Ndila Carolyne Mukami , Paasi George , Schmidt Jessica , Olupot-Olupot Peter
Published: January 2024

Background
Health care professionals (HCPs) face diagnostic challenges especially when confronted with undifferentiated critically ill patients at emergency care unit. The need for improvement in diagnostic capabilities is greater in settings with limited clinical, radiological and laboratory capabilities. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has been suggested to offer some diagnostic solutions in resource-limited settings. This study aimed to assess the acceptability and feasibility of using POCUS for diagnosing patients at health facilities in resource-limited settings in Eastern Uganda.
Methods
This cross-sectional study purposively enrolled HCPs in Eastern Uganda. Data were analyzed using the STATA statistical analysis software for univariate analysis and presented using frequency tables and proportions.
Results
A total of 52 HCPs of various cadres were studied, including 22/52 (42.3%) nurses, 15/52 (28.8%) medical officers, 10/52 (19.2%) clinical officers, 2/52 (3.8%) intern nurses, and 2/52 (3.8%) specialists. Over one half 27/52 (51.9%) had heard of POCUS of whom 9/27 (33.3%) had formal training with 7/27 (25.9%) of them having used POCUS. While 25/27 (92.6%) had witnessed someone performing POCUS diagnostic procedure. The majority of HCPs 41/52 (78.8%) expressed interest in undergoing a training on POCUS, moreover 42/52 (80.8%) thought it was helpful in medical practice. The common barriers on use of POCUS cited were high cost of equipment and training, lack of an ultrasound machine, lack of mentors and time to train learners.
Conclusion
POCUS use is acceptable among HCPs, but its potential in these settings is dependent on overcoming barriers to its use.
Influence of salt levels on the quality characteristics and microbial count of Pizza cheese prepared employing a starter culture technique through technological interventions using Saccharomyces boulardii as an adjunct
Authors: BIHOLA ANKIT , JANA ATANU H. , Suvera Priyanka , Adil Shaikh
Published: January 2024

Research was carried out to study the influence of two levels of salt on the quality characteristics of Pizza cheeses prepared using Saccharomyces boulardii adjunct culture. Two protocols were employed: Protocol I using unhomogenized milk and cheddaring of cheese curd before plasticizing (CCUM) and Protocol II using a milk blend of homogenized and unhomogenized milks (CBHM) to determine the S. boulardii count as affected by salt levels. All the cheeses conformed to the FSSR standard. The cheese CBHM2.25 was associated with higher moisture, FDM content and yield. The hardness, cohesiveness and springiness of CCUM1.75 and CCUM2.25 as well as CBHM1.75 and CBHM2.25 were similar. Judging cheese as a pizza topping revealed that the highest flavour and total scores were assigned to cheeses CCUM1.75 and CCUM2.25 respectively. Maximum stretch length was associated with cheese CCUM1.75. The LAB count of cheeses CCUM and CBHM was favoured in the presence of S. boulardii. The highest LAB and S. boulardii counts were associated with cheese CBHM1.75. The counts of S. boulardii and LAB in Pizza cheese tended to be lower when using higher salt levels (i.e. 2.25%). It is recommended to use salt at a level of 1.75% when employing S. boulardii culture as an adjunct starter.
Blockade of the platelet-driven CXCL7-CXCR1/2 inflammatory axis prevents murine cerebral aneurysm formation and rupture
Authors: Nowicki Kamil W. , Mittal Aditya , Hudson Joseph S. , D’Angelo Michael P. , McDowell Michael M. , Cao Catherine , Mantena Rohit , Jauhari Abhishek , Friedlander Robert M.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND
Platelet aggregation is intimately associated with vascular inflammation and is commonly seen on routine histology studies of cerebral aneurysms. Platelets, when activated, have been shown to augment neutrophil response and the proinflammatory cascade. Platelet-neutrophil complexes have been found to aggravate atherosclerosis through a positive feedback loop. We hypothesized that targeting platelet aggregation and downstream inflammation could be used to prevent aneurysm formation and progression.
METHODS
First, we induced cerebral aneurysm formation in a previously described intracranial aneurysm model via carotid artery ligation, hypertension, and stereotactic elastase injection in C57BL/6 mice, and analyzed vessels for lesion and thrombus formation. Raybiotech cytokine arrays were used to analyze 96 cytokines in induced murine aneurysms and 120 cytokines in human tissue samples. Cerebral aneurysm formation and inflammatory pathway was then studied in animals treated with IgG2 antibody (control), anti-GpIb antibody (platelet depletion), 1:10 DMSO:PBS (control), clopidogrel, anti-CXCR1/2 small molecule inhibitor, or anti-CXCL7 antibody. Bleeding assays and flow cytometry were used to evaluate platelet function in treated groups.
RESULTS
CD31 + platelet aggregates are a common feature in human and mouse cerebral aneurysm specimens. Platelet ablation in mice prevents cerebral aneurysm formation (20% vs 100% in control antibody treated mice, n = 5 each, p = 0.0476). Mice treated with 1 mg/kg clopidogrel develop significantly less aneurysms than controls (18% vs 73%, n = 11 and 11 respectively, p = 0.03). Semi-quantitative analysis of 96 different cytokines using Raybiotech arrays shows increased protein expression of CXCL7 in murine cerebral aneurysms when compared to controls. Treatment with clopidogrel results in reciprocal decrease in detected CXCL7. Targeting CXCL7-CXCR1/2 axis with 10 mg/kg reparixin (CXCR1/2 antagonist) significantly decreases cerebral aneurysm formation (11% vs 73%, n = 9 and 11, p = 0.0098) while treatment with 10 mg/kg SB225002 tends to decrease aneurysm formation (36% vs 73%, n = 11 vs n = 7, p = 0.11). Lastly, specific antibody blockade against CXCL7 using anti-CXCL7 antibody at 100 ug/mL significantly decreases cerebral aneurysm formation (29% vs 75%, n = 7 vs n = 8, p = 0.046).
CONCLUSIONS
Platelet inflammation has an important role in cerebral aneurysm formation. Small molecule inhibitors targeting platelet CXCL7-CXCR1/2 inflammatory axis could be used to prevent cerebral aneurysm formation or progression.
Exploring the Dynamics of Technology Transfer and Automation in Universities: A Case Study on Fostering Entrepreneurship and Startup Ecosystems at Bangladesh Open University
Authors: Nayem Syeda Zakia , Hossain Md. Sabbir , Khatun Mariam
Published: January 2024

This study provides an in-depth examination of the dynamics of technology transfer, automation, and entrepreneurship at Bangladesh Open University (BOU), utilizing a qualitative research approach. Through interviews with 30 key stakeholders, including faculty, students, and administrators, the study employs thematic analysis, facilitated by NVivo, to extract rich insights. The findings reveal moderate successes in technology transfer, marked by challenges in commercializing academic research and establishing strong industry links. In the realm of automation, the study highlights its significant role in enhancing educational accessibility, juxtaposed with challenges in digital literacy and resource disparities. The growth of the entrepreneurship ecosystem at BOU is evident, yet it is tempered by a need for more robust support structures, particularly in mentorship and funding. These qualitative insights offer a nuanced perspective on BOU’s alignment with, and divergence from, established theories such as the Triple Helix Model and Academic Entrepreneurship Theory, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities in an open university setting. The study’s findings provide valuable contributions to academic discourse, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies in technology integration and entrepreneurial development in higher education, especially relevant in the context of developing countries.
JEL Classification L26 . M13. O33
Performance Analysis on Thermal Reflection of Disc Brake Applying Soft Computing
Authors: Bhattacherjee Sourav , Jana Bidyut
Published: January 2024

Braking is a process which converts the kinetic energy of the vehicle into mechanical energy which must be dissipated in the form of heat. The disc brake is a device for de-accelerating or stopping the rotation of a wheel. A brake disc (or rotor) usually made of cast iron or ceramic composites, is connected to the wheel or the axle. Friction material in the form of brake pads (mounted on a device called a brake calliper) is forced mechanically, hydraulically, pneumatically or electromagnetically against both sides of the disc to stop the wheel. The present research is basically deals with the modelling and analysis of solid and ventilated disc brake using Pro-E and ANSYS. Finite element (FE) models of the brake-disc are created using Pro-E and simulated using ANSYS which is based on the finite element method (FEM). In this research Coupled Analysis (Structural & Thermal analysis) is performed in order to find the strength of the disc brake.. Comparison has been done for displacement, stresses, nodal temperatures, etc. for the two materials to suggest the best material, applicable for FSAE (Formula Society of Automotive Engineers) car also. An analytical model is presented in this paper for the determination of the contact temperature distribution on the working surface of a brake. To consider the effects of the moving heat source (the pad) with relative sliding speed variation, a transient finite element technique is used to characterize the temperature fields of the solid rotor with appropriate thermal boundary conditions. In this paper three different cut patterns of brake disc are studied for heat transfer rate. Numerical results shows that the operating characteristics of the brake exert an essentially influence on the surface temperature distribution and the maximal contact temperature.
Innovative Solar Energy Solution for Hong Kong High-Rise Buildings
Authors: Habib Muhammad Irfan , Shabir Ahsan
Published: January 2024

This research paper provides an innovative technique to save electricity in Hong Kong by installing flexible solar-thin-film solar technology on the exterior walls of high-rise buildings. The proposed idea aims to generate electric power all day, storing extra energy in the batteries and directly distributing it to each apartment; it will reduce reliance on traditional electricity sources. This idea's financial and eco-friendly benefits are purposed and described, demonstrating significant potential for widespread implementation.
Studies of the chromite content of ultramafc rocks. Dedication to N. V. Vakhrusheva (1959–2023)
Authors: Ivanov Kirill Svyatoslavich
Published: January 2024

The article is dedicated to the memory of the outstanding uralic geologist, scientist and educator Nadezhda Vladimirovna Vakhrusheva (1959– 2023). Her main works were devoted to the study of chromite-bearing ultrabasite massifs of the Ural-Mongolian Fold Belt. She devoted many years of her life to teaching at USMU. The life path and scientifc achievements of Nadezhda Vladimirovna are described.
Conformities distribution contents gold and silver in ore bodies of the Berezovskoe deposit (Middle Urals)
Authors: DVORNIK Gennadiy Petrovich
Published: January 2024

The relevance of the work is due to the importance industrial meaning associated with beresits and listvenites gold ores deposit in the world production. Purpose of the work – study conformities of distribution gold and silver concentration in ore bodies of the Berezovskoe deposit. Methods of research included separation industrial types of ores for valuation quality gold chute, use probabilistic-statistic, geometric-statistic and geostatistic models for description amplitude and frequency changeability gold and silver content in ore bodies of Berezovskoe deposit. Results. It was established definite conformities in distribution contents gold and silver in primary types ores of Berezovskoe deposit. So in limits mineralized dikes granitoids on percentage correlation rich, ordinary and poor ores, meaning coefficients wealth and the gold-silver ratio the best quality distiquished sulphide-quartz ores in the strip veins in comparison with more poor impregnation ores in berezites near veins. In distribution parameters gold mineralization (contents gold and silver, linear productivity of ores) was established tier vertical zonality with separation 2–3 levels the largest foul prevalence mineralization on dip dikes granitoids in interval of depth 112–712 meters. In distribution contents gold and silver in ores registered lateral zonality on strike ore-bearing dikes granitoids. She expressed in conforming growth productivity of ores on horizons with moving off in direction with south to the north from the contact Shartash massif of granitoids. Distribution gold and silver content in mineralized dikes granitoids on amplitude variability changed from quite uneven to extremely uneven. Among colour sulphide-quartz veins of Berezovskoe deposit on content in their gold and silver, linear productivity of ores the best quality defined veins, formed on upper ore level (53–168 m). Quality ores conforming lowered with growth of depth bedding veins on middle ore level (201–262 m) and lower ore level (442–512 m) horizons.
Laboratory tests and analysis of mathematical models of deformation of crushed salt rocks
Authors: KARASEV Maksim Anatol’evich
Published: January 2024

Relevance of the work. For a qualitative prediction of the stress-strain state of host rock massifs during the development of potash and salt mines with chamber-pillar mining systems with the backfilling of the excavated space, as well as in other cases of the use of crushed salts as the backfilling masses, it is necessary to take into account the influence of the backfill massive, which determines the relevance of the study devoted to the laboratory tests and analysis of mathematical models of deformation of crushed salt rocks, which usually represent the backfilling massifs used in these cases. The purpose of the work is to analyze situation in the field of mathematical and numerical modeling of deformation of crushed salt rock and investigation of mechanical response of crushed salt rock under hydrostatic conditions. Methods. As the main method of theoretical research, the analysis of modern sources of information related to the subject of the study was used. Laboratory tests were carried out using a standard set of sieves and universal test machine MTS 815. Results. The paper considers the following deformation models used to describe the mechanical response of crushed salt rocks, as well as examples of their use: the Mohr-Coulomb model, the model of double plastic hardening, the S. A. Konstantinova model, the S. Olivella and A. Gens model, and the WIPP Salt model. As part of laboratory studies, data were obtained on the material size modulus, as well as the dependence of the medium pressure on volumetric deformations and volumetric deformations on time, in addition, creep rates for the studied material were obtained at various levels of average stresses under hydrostatic compression conditions. Conclusions. It is proposed to carry out further development of models of crushed salt rocks for mining conditions based on the description of plastic flow surfaces with a hardening/softening area obtained as a result of extensive laboratory and field surveys.
Integrated analytic hierarchy process and fuzzy analytic hierarchy process for Sahel watershed flood susceptibility assessment, Algeria
Authors: Mokhtari Elhadj , Abdelkebir Brahim , Djenaoui Abdelouahed , Hamdani Nour El Houda
Published: January 2024

Effective disaster management heavily relies on accurate flood susceptibility mapping. The fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) is adept at considering the imprecise nature of decision-making criteria. This study assesses FAHP's effectiveness in flood susceptibility mapping, comparing it with the conventional analytic hierarchy process (AHP). By using Geographic Information System-analyzed remotely sensed data, the research systematically evaluates flood risk southeast of Algiers. Various datasets, including Digital Elevation Model, slope, precipitation, and land use maps, were collected via remote sensing. A linear fuzzy membership function transformed the data into fuzzy values. AHP determined the importance of each dataset, with calculated weights multiplied by corresponding fuzzy values. Fuzzy analysis combined these characteristics into a five-category flood risk map, verified with Google Earth and satellite images. Results indicate a high potential for flood hazard mapping, categorizing 30% of frequently flooded regions as high risk. Maps reveal north basin areas are more flood prone due to excessive precipitation, and urban areas in floodplains are vulnerable. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and area under the ROC curve (AUC) assessments demonstrate AHP and FAHP's effectiveness. AUC values of 88.40 and 92% indicate that both models accurately predict flood-prone areas. FAHP excels, reducing subjectivity and ambiguity in human judgments.
Profesor Maria Grzegorzewska – prekursorka teorii oraz praktyki surdotyflopedagogiki w Polsce
Authors: Zaorska Marzenna
Published: January 2024

Rok 2022 jest rokiem wyjątkowego jubileuszu polskiej pedagogiki specjalnej. Sto lat wcześniej Maria Grzegorzewska podjęła kształcenie pedagogów specjalnych w Państwowym Instytucie Pedagogiki Specjalnej w Warszawie (obecnie Akademia Pedagogiki Specjalnej im. Marii Grzegorzewskiej w Warszawie). Jest twórczynią polskiej pedagogiki specjalnej oraz wielu jej subdyscyplin szczegółowych, zarówno z teoretycznego, jak i praktycznego punktu widzenia. Jedną z subdyscyplin pedagogiki specjalnej w Polsce, rozwój której zainicjowała Maria Grzegorzewska, jest surdotyflopedagogika (edukacja i rehabilitacja osób z równoczesną słuchowo-wzrokową niepełnosprawnością, głuchoniewidomych). W treści artykułu wskazano wkład Marii Grzegorzewskiej w uświadamianiespołeczeństwu problematyki dotyczącej osób głuchoniewidomych, popularyzowanie informacji na ich temat, w rozwój surdotyflopedagogiki w Polsce oraz ukazano wybrane poglądy Marii Grzegorzewskiej dotyczące specyfiki funkcjonowania osób doświadczających konsekwencji równoczesnej niepełnosprawności słuchu i wzroku.
First case of cutaneous mycobacteriosis in a domestic feline in southern Brazil
Authors: Michelson Vanzin Paula , Davi dos Santos Ezequiel , Bielack dos Santos Aline , Schallenberger da Silva Rúbia , Da Rosa Pereira Bibiana , Costa da Motta Adriana
Published: January 2024

Tegumentary mycobacteriosis in cats is not very common. Three manifestations of skin disease associated with mycobacteria are recognized in domestic cats: feline leprosy, cutaneous tuberculosis and atypical mycobacteriosis. This study aims to describe a case of feline pyogranulomatous panniculitis associated with Mycobacterium spp., diagnosed through histopathology and histochemistry. The case occurred in a domestic feline, three years old, five kg, male, of mixed breed, which, in the clinical-physical exam, presented multiple subcutaneous nodules without ulceration of the epidermis and of firm-elastic consistency in the axillary and pectoral regions. One of the axillary nodules was surgically removed, placed in 10% formalin and sent for anatomopathological examination. Histologically, severe, sometimes multifocal, marked focally extensive pyogranulomatous dermatitis and panniculitis were revealed. Amid pyogranulomatous panniculitis, there was the formation of extracellular lipid vacuoles, also called lipocysts, surrounded by numerous neutrophils and histiocytes and with a lumen displaying eosinophilic amorphous material with a granular appearance. Histological sections were submitted to special Ziehl-Neelsen staining to detect alcohol-acid-resistant bacillus (BAAR), revealing multiple extra and intra-histiocytic mycobacteria inside the lipocysts. Thus, the anatomopathological and histochemical findings found in the feline indicated that this was the first case of pyogranulomatous dermatitis and panniculitis associated with Mycobacterium spp. reported in southern Brazil.
Characterization of hoof injuries in sheep (Ovis aries) in the State of Tocantins, Brazil
Authors: Villela de Gouvêa Liana , Arnold Alfonso Pérez Yohany , de Menezes Paes Jade , Gianordoli Teixeira Gomes Márcio , Alves Ferreira Deborah , Galindo Chenard Marina , Pereira Josielle , Russano Kícia , Augusto Barroso Lessa Daniel , Valeria Gomes Coelho da Silva Kássia , Abdalla Helayel Michel
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to characterize and establish the prevalence of foot lesions and stages of footrot in sheep flocks in the State of Tocantins, Brazil, during dry and moist seasons. A total of 339 sheep (Ovis aries) were examined during the period of September 2014 to May of 2015. Procedures for animal examination and age estimation were performed. All animals were divided in three groups: G1, G2 and G3 using the Egerton's modified score system for footrot. Foot lesions were classified as: double sole (DS), overgrowth (OG), white line disease (WLD), moderate interdigital dermatitis (MID), severe interdigital dermatitis (SID), horizontal crack (HC) and other injuries (OI). No significant difference was observed when comparing the same group in different periods, however there was difference between groups in the same period. In dry and moist season, G1 was greater than G2 and G3. The most prevalent lesion per limb observed in dry and moist season was OG. This difference was also observed for DS, OG+WLD, OG+MID, OG+SID, OG+HC and OI. The only lesion that was more prevalent in dry season when compared to moist season was OG+DS. This exploratory study provides key insight into the prevalence of foot lesions of sheep in two distinct seasons, and the occurrence of concomitant lesions. Animals of all ages were classified as moderate to severe footrot according to the modified Egerton scoring system, during moist season.
Obesity and its Relationship with Covid-19: A Review of the Main
Pharmaceutical Aspects
Authors: Hodel Katharine , Fonseca Ananda , Barbosa Islania , Medina Caio , Alves Brenda , Maciel Carine , Nascimento Daniel , Oliveira-Junior Gessualdo , Pedreira Lorena , de Souza Monielly , Godoy Ana Leonor
Published: January 2024

Important physiological changes are observed in patients with obesity, such as intestinal
permeability, gastric emptying, cardiac output, and hepatic and renal function. These differences
can determine variations in the pharmacokinetics of different drugs and can generate different
concentrations at the site of action, which can lead to sub therapeutic or toxic concentrations.
Understanding the physiological and immunological processes that lead to the clinical
manifestations of COVID-19 is essential to correlate obesity as a risk factor for increasing the
prevalence, severity, and lethality of the disease. Several drugs have been suggested to control
COVID- 19 like Lopinavir, Ritonavir, Ribavirin, Sofosbuvir, Remdesivir, Oseltamivir, Oseltamivir
phosphate, Oseltamivir carboxylate, Hydroxychloroquine, Chloroquine, Azithromycin,
Teicoplanin, Tocilizumab, Anakinra, Methylprednisolone, Prednisolone, Ciclesonide and Ivermectin.
Similarly, these differences between healthy people and obese people can be correlated
to mechanical factors, such as insufficient doses of the vaccine for high body mass, impairing the
absorption and distribution of the vaccine that will be lower than desired or can be linked to the
inflammatory state in obese patients, which can influence the humoral immune response. Additionally,
different aspects make the obese population more prone to persistent symptoms of the
disease (long COVID), which makes understanding these mechanisms fundamental to addressing
the implications of the disease. Thus, this review provides an overview of the relationship
between COVID-19 and obesity, considering aspects related to pharmacokinetics, immunosuppression,
immunization, and possible implications of long COVID in these individuals.
Functional Roles of Tumor Protein D52 (TPD52) in Breast Cancer
Authors: Zehtabi Mojtaba , Maleknia Mohsen , Anbiyaiee Amir , Jafari Razieh Mohammad , Moramezi Farideh , Farzaneh Maryam , Azizidoost Shirin
Published: January 2024

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Breast cancer is an aggressive disease with a significant morbidity and death rate among
women worldwide. Despite the progress of diagnostic and therapy options for breast cancer in recent
years, the prognosis and survival rates of breast cancer patients remain unsatisfactory. The aberrant
growth and spread of tumor cells are the leading cause of death in these patients. More profound
knowledge of molecular biology underlying breast cancer and a more accurate stratification are still
necessary for more precise therapy. Further understanding of the disease's molecular mechanism and
genetic aberrations may allow for the identification of more accurate prognostic and diagnostic markers
and more effective treatments. Tumor protein D52 (TPD52) is an oncogene whose overexpression
has been found in breast cancer. Overexpression of TPD52 has been linked to specific molecular subtypes
of breast cancer, including luminal B and ERBB2-positive tumors. Besides, non-coding RNAs
(ncRNAs) were found to play a significant role in breast cancer progression. ncRNAs play regulatory
roles in cell behaviors, cancer pathogenesis, radiotherapy, and resistance to chemotherapy. Multiple
ncRNAs could modulate the expression of TPD52 and regulate breast cancer cell proliferation, invasion,
and metastasis. In this review, we summarized the functions of TPD52 in breast cancer cells.
A Mangrove Density Mapping for Sustainable Utilization and Management in Klawalu Mangrove Tourism Park, Sorong City
Authors: Frans Pattiasina Thomas , Tjolli Ihwan , Ellen Bless Aplena , Lekitoo Krisma
Published: January 2024

Data and information on resource utilization supported by vegetation mapping is the basis for developing a sustainable mangrove management strategy. This study aims to map the density of vegetation and identify the use of mangroves by the community in the Klawalu Mangrove Tourism Park (Taman Wisata Mangrove Klawalu-TWMK) Sorong City. The satellite imagery used is Sentinel 2A level 1C. Image pre-processing includes atmospheric correction, geometric correction and image cropping. Determination of the extent and distribution of mangrove vegetation is carried out by applying the color composite method and mangrove boundary delineation. Mangrove vegetation density mapping was carried out by applying the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) method. Identification of the species and intensity of mangrove utilization was carried out through observation and interviews with respondents who were determined purposively. Based on the results of the analysis, the total area of mangrove vegetation in TWMK and its surroundings which is mapped is 144.64 ha. Of this area, 69.01 ha (47.71%) is classified as very dense, 34.96 ha (24.17%) is classified as dense and 24.23 ha (16.75%) is classified as moderate, 12. 94 ha (8.95%) is classified as sparse, and 3.5 ha (2.42%) is classified as very sparse. The intensity of resource utilization from the mangrove ecosystem is quite high, especially the utilization of mangrove wood and coral mining. Awareness/education efforts need to be continued, as well as alternative livelihood solutions to reduce the heavy dependence on mangrove resources.