Innovative Technologies Research Articles

Inclusive innovations in services: leveraging digital technologies for inclusive innovations in healthcare services

PurposeThis paper aims to provide insights into the potential of digital technologies-based innovations for more inclusive healthcare by alleviating the affordability, accessibility and availability barriers to utilization of healthcare services. Also, it aims to provide insights into the potential of digital technologies-based innovations for more inclusive services, broadly.Design/methodology/approachA conceptual framework is inductively developed by analyzing real-world examples of digital technologies-based innovations for more inclusive healthcare through the lenses of economics of information in digital form and certain characteristics of services.FindingsConcurrent implementation of digital technologies-based healthcare innovations with innovations and/or modifications in service processes can enable greater inclusivity by alleviating the affordability, accessibility and availability barriers to utilization of healthcare services.Research limitations/implicationsIssues relating to inequities in healthcare, as a social problem, are the focus of research at multiple levels (e.g. global, national, regional and local) in several academic disciplines. In relation to the scope of the problems and challenges pertaining to providing quality healthcare to the unserved and underserved segments of society, worldwide, the contribution of the proposed framework to practice is modest. However, by highlighting the promise and potential of digital technologies-based innovations as solutions for alleviating barriers to affordability, accessibility and availability of healthcare services during various stages (prevention, detection, diagnosis, treatment and post-treatment follow-up) with illustrative vignettes and developing a framework, the article offers insights for future research. For instance, in reference to mission-driven social enterprises that operate in the product-market space for inclusive innovations under resource constraints, a resourcefulness-based view of the social enterprise constitutes a potential avenue for theory development and research.Practical implicationsGiven the conceptual nature of the article, the implications for practice are limited to cognitive implications. Action implications (instrumental implications or implications for practice) are outside of the scope of the article.Social implicationsInnovations that are economically viable, environmentally sustainable and socially impactful is one of the important issues of our times.Originality/valueThe proposed framework provides insights into the potential of digital technologies-based innovations for more inclusive healthcare by alleviating the affordability, accessibility and availability barriers in the context of emerging and less developed country markets and base of the pyramid segments of society in these markets.

Direct Melt-Calendaring of Highly Textured (Bi,Sb)2Te3 Thick Films: Superior Thermoelectric and Mechanical Performance via Strain Engineering.

The evolutions of chip thermal management and micro energy harvesting put forward urgent need for micro thermoelectric devices. Nevertheless, low-performance thermoelectric thick films as well as the complicated precision cutting process for hundred-micron thermoelectric legs still remain the bottleneck hindering the advancement of micro thermoelectric devices. In this work, an innovative direct melt-calendaring manufacturing technology is first proposed with specially designed and assembled equipment, that enables direct, rapid, and cost-effective continuous manufacturing of Bi2Te3-based films with thickness of hundred microns. Based on the strain engineering with external glass coating confinement and controlled calendaring deformation degree, enhanced thermoelectric performance has been achieved for (Bi,Sb)2Te3 thick films with highly textured nanocrystals, which can promote carrier mobility over 182.6 cm2 V-1 s-1 and bring out a record-high zT value of 0.96 and 1.16 for n-type and p-type (Bi,Sb)2Te3 thick films, respectively. The nanoscale interfaces also further improve the mechanical strength with excellent elastic modules (over 42.0GPa) and hardness (over 1.7GPa), even superior to the commercial zone-melting ingots and comparable to the hot-extrusion (Bi,Sb)2Te3 alloys. This new fabrication strategy is versatile to a wide range of inorganic thermoelectric thick films, which lays a solid foundation for the development of micro thermoelectric devices.

Providing Assessable Soil Information: A Case of the Land Potential Knowledge System (LandPKS) in Benue State, Nigeria

The extension-farmer ratio gap is at an all-time high with extension workers rarely equipped to provide farmers the needed information and tools to better manage their farm fields. Soil health is critical to achieving food security sustainably. Soil management practices will enable small holder farmers increase productivity amidst a changing climate and an increasing population which puts pressure on natural resources. The Land potential knowledge system (LandPKS version 3.77 for Android and 3.71 for iOS) mobile application was used for on- the- spot- assessment of soil potential at Agan council ward of Makurdi Local Government area (LGA) in Benue State. This pilot study entailed purposeful selection of 10 farmers and their farm fields in Agan council ward Makurdi LGA. The Land PKS is a new innovative technology that provide information on soils using mobile phones and also gives spatial data on land use, land capability classification and management. Chemical properties of the soil were read insitu with a sensor machine using the principle of internet of things (IOT) and some soil properties were analyzed for in a Soil laboratory. Findings here reported are location specific. Soils at the surface were mostly sandy while the subsurface varied from sandy clay loam to clay with moderate acidic and low nutrients (Nitrogen and Organic carbon). The LCC class for the area indicates limitations that can impact on agricultural productivity and the environment. The Land PKS mobile application will serve as a soil management tool for extension workers while providing data needed for making critical decisions on government bulk fertilizer purchases.

INTELLECTUAL MIGRATION AS A FACTOR OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THE COUNTRY: ANALYSIS OF CANADA’S EXPERIENCE

In the context of globalization, the topic of intellectual migration is becoming increasingly relevant for the development of innovative economies and advanced technologies. This article analyzes the experience of Canada, one of the leading countries in the field of attracting highly qualified specialists. The purpose of the article is to study Canada's immigration policy, and its impact on the socio-economic development of the country, as well as to identify current trends and opportunities for developing effective mechanisms for regulating migration flows. The case study method used in the study allowed for an in-depth analysis of Canadian practice. Data collection and processing included content analysis of regulatory legal acts, international and national reports, as well as other documented sources. The results of the study show that Canadian immigration policy is one of the most liberal and inclusive in the world, contributing to attracting highly qualified migrants, supporting family reunification, and providing asylum to those in need. Immigration processes play a key role in the socio-economic development of Canada, compensating for the shortage of workers and contributing to demographic stability. The Government of Canada is actively implementing migrant integration programs, which makes it possible to maximize the potential for economic growth and innovative development of the country. The study also revealed that effective immigration policies and integration programs are key factors for the successful recruitment and adaptation of highly qualified professionals in Canada. The results obtained can serve as a basis for the development of effective policies in the field of intellectual migration and contribute to further study of this topic.

A generative design-based optimization model for multi-objective construction site layout planning

PurposeGiven the growing interest in modern construction techniques and the emergence of innovative technologies, construction site layout planning research has progressively been investigating approaches to adopt innovative concepts and incorporate renewed approaches to improve widespread efficiency. This research develops a decision-making tool that optimizes construction site layout plans. The developed model targets two main objectives: minimizing material transportation costs and maximizing safety by optimally placing facilities on construction sites.Design/methodology/approachA novel approach is devised based on the integration of Building Information Modeling and Generative Design (BIM-GD). This engine is used to optimize the multi-objective site layout problems to identify layout alternatives in the early project stages. Parametric modeling uses Dynamo to construct the model and explore constraints initially. Finally, the GD environment is utilized to create different design alternatives, and then the decision-making procedure selects the most appropriate design alternative. Additionally, a case study is applied to validate the effectiveness of the developed model.FindingsThe results indicate the effectiveness of the proposed GD tool and its potential for more complex applications. The GD engine examined optimal layout plans, balancing different objectives and adhering to appointed geometric constraints. A case study was conducted to assess the model's effectiveness and showcase its suitability. Construction Site Layout Planning (CSLP) is an essential step in design that can influence considerable aspects, such as material transportation expenses and different safety standards on the site. Employing visual programming for parametric modeling within Dynamo-Revit creates an expedient and user-friendly platform for planning engineers who may require more programming expertise to create and program algorithmic models visually. Utilizing GD in CSLP has proven to be a powerful tool with consequential prospects for improving applications and executing more models.Practical implicationsThe findings from this framework are intended to help construction practitioners select the most appropriate site layout during early project stages while incorporating different safety criteria inside construction sites to alleviate actual safety risks.Originality/valueA new approach is proposed that utilizes an integrated BIM-GD engine to optimize multi-objective site layout problems. This approach targets two main objectives: minimizing material transportation costs and maximizing safety by optimally placing facilities in construction sites.

Carbon Dioxide Capture: Current Status and Future Prospects

The surge in greenhouse gas emissions, predominantly in the form of carbon dioxide (CO2) spurred by the Industrial Revolution, has surpassed the critical threshold of 400 ppm, fueling global warming, ocean acidification, and climate change. To mitigate the adverse effects of these emissions and limit the global temperature rise to below 2 °C, the ambitious target of achieving net zero emissions by 2050 was established in the Paris Agreement. Current state-of-the-art technologies, such as amine scrubbing, remain problematic owing to their high energy requirements, susceptibility to corrosion, and other operational challenges. Owing to the lack of suitable technologies coupled with escalating energy demand, there is still a significant amount of carbon dioxide being released into the atmosphere. Accordingly, there is an urgent need for the development of alternative technologies that offer high efficiency, low energy consumption, cost-effective installation, and operation. In this review, we delve into the emerging technologies poised to address these challenges, evaluating their maturity levels in comparison to existing commercially available solutions. Furthermore, we provide a brief overview of ongoing efforts aimed at commercializing these innovative technologies.

Poprawa zdolności sorpcyjnej i zastosowania biosorbentu poprzez immobilizację

The water contamination by toxic metal ions is a worldwide environmental problem. High concentrations are hazardous for all living organisms, causing many disorders and diseases and ecological damages to the surroundings. Biosorption is an innovative technology that employs inactive and dead biomass (bacteria, fungi, algae, biowaste) for the recovery of metals from aqueous solutions. Sulphate-reducing bacteria utilization is one of the options how to prepare applicable sorbent which removes metal ions from water. This material is created as a consequence of bacteria metabolism in anaerobic environment. The use of freely suspended biomass is often impractical and has some disadvantages. In contrast to this, application of immobilized biomass shows more benefits including increased mechanical strength, resistance to chemical environment, easy separation of cells and effluents, high biomass performance and repeated use in many adsorption/desorption cycles. Cell entrapment is the most widely used method for immobilization. In this technique, the cells are enclosed in a polymeric matrix which is porous enough to allow diffusion of substrate to the cells. The aim of this work was to examine and compare the sorption ability of biogenic iron sulphides created by sulphate-reducing bacteria in “free” and “entrapped” form. Precipitates were synthesized in reagent bottles with bacteria culture and growth media Postgate C, at 30 °C during 60 days, subsequently dried and analysed. Prepared samples were immobilized using sodium alginate. Sorption of cadmium from model solutions was realized in 100 ml Erlenmeyer flasks, with sorbent dose 1 g/l, during 24 hours. During experiments, the samples showed a satisfying stability and maximum adsorption capacity achieved 38 mg/g. The results refer to good sorption properties of immobilized samples and their potential for further practical use.

Advancements in Urolithiasis Treatment: Current Strategies, Future Challenges, and Integrating Traditional Wisdom into Modern Medicine:A Review

Urolithiasis, the formation of urinary tract stones, remains a prevalent and painful condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. This article explores the current treatment strategies for urolithiasis, including minimally invasive procedures, dietary modifications, and pharmacological interventions. We also address the ongoing challenges in managing this condition, such as the high recurrence rates and potential complications. Looking to the future, we examine the prospects for innovative technologies, including targeted drug delivery and personalized medicine approaches, to enhance urolithiasis treatment. Furthermore, we discuss the promising potential of integrating traditional knowledge and remedies from various cultures into the modern medical system. This integration not only offers new avenues for preventive and curative therapies but also underscores the importance of preserving and respecting the wisdom of traditional healing practices. By exploring both established and emerging treatment options and considering the implementation of traditional knowledge, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of urolithiasis management, future challenges, and potential solutions. It emphasizes the need for a holistic approach that combines the best of modern medicine with the insights of traditional healing systems to improve the quality of care for urolithiasis patients.

Recent advances in predicting acute mountain sickness: from multidimensional cohort studies to cutting-edge model applications.

High-altitude illnesses, encompassing a spectrum of health threats including Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), pose significant challenges to individuals exposed to high altitude environments, necessitating effective prophylaxis and immediate management. Given the variability in individual responses to these conditions, accurate prediction of high-altitude illnesses onset is of paramount importance. This review systematically consolidates recent advancements in research on predicting AMS by evaluating existing cohort data, predictive models, and methodologies, while also delving into the application of emerging technologies. Through a thorough analysis of scholarly literature, we discuss traditional prediction methods anchored in physiological parameters (e.g., heart rate, respiratory frequency, blood pressure) and biochemical markers, as well as the integration and utility of novel technologies such as biosensors, genetic testing, and artificial intelligence within high-altitude prediction research. While conventional pre-diction techniques have been extensively used, they are often constrained by limitations in accuracy, reliability, and multifactorial influences. The advent of these innovative technologies holds promise for more precise individual risk assessments and personalized preventive and therapeutic strategies across various forms of AMS. Future research endeavors must pivot decisively towards the meticulous identification and stringent validation of innovative predictive biomarkers and models. This strategic re-direction should catalyze intensified interdisciplinary cooperation to significantly deepen our mechanistic insights into the pathogenesis of AMS while refining existing prediction methodologies. These groundbreaking advancements harbor the potential to fundamentally transform preventive and therapeutic frameworks for high-altitude illnesses, ultimately securing augmented safety standards and wellbeing for individuals operating at elevated altitudes with far-reaching global implications.

INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES AS A FACTOR IN IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF SERVICE ORGANIZATION IN THE HOTEL AND RESTAURANT BUSINESS

This article reveals aspects of the impact of innovative technologies on improving the quality of service organization in the hotel and restaurant business. The issue of improving the quality of the organization of customer service at the enterprises of the hotel and restaurant complex was considered. The peculiarities of the application of innovative technologies at enterprises in modern conditions are analyzed. The development of information technologies and growing competition in the market of hotel services necessitate the active use of innovations in the operation of modern hotels. Nowadays, innovation is considered one of the important competitive advantages of the hospitality industry. At the same time, the spectrum of application of innovations in the activity of a hotel enterprise is quite multifaceted. The purpose of the study was to demonstrate the use of innovations in the activities of enterprises of the hotel industry. The hypothesis of the study was the assumption that the key trends in the development of innovations in the hotel industry are digitization, resource-saving technologies and environmental protection. The research methodology was based on system analysis. The article examines innovations in the hotel industry that are relevant to today's realities. Analysis of existing developments and experience of using innovations in modern hotel enterprises of Ukraine allowed the author to clarify the classification of types of innovations in the hotel industry. Based on the results of the research, the main problems that arise in the process of introducing innovations in the hotel industry have been verified, and methods of their elimination have been determined. Scope: the obtained results can be used in the practical activities of hotel enterprises in the modernization and improvement of the service process. The author proves that "green technologies" have been given a prominent place in the innovations of the hotel industry in recent years. At the same time, the idea of environmental protection is implemented not only in the aspect of providing comfortable conditions for guests, but also at all stages of the life of a hotel enterprise: from engineering research, design, construction and operation to major repairs, reconstruction and complete liquidation.

Acceptance of Rpa in Public Sector Institutions

ABSTRACT Due to the increasing demands for modern communication channels and the economical fulfillment of public tasks, innovative technologies are needed to improve the efficiency and interoperability of existing IT infrastructures in public institutions. Robotic process automation (RPA) is a promising technology that has the potential to pragmatically automate administrative processes in public institutions, thereby providing much-needed work load reduction for public employees. However, any RPA project will not be successful if the relevant stakeholders’ acceptance of the new technology is insufficient. Until today, research did not address which factors influence the acceptance of RPA in public sector institutions. A relevant question nonetheless, as the peculiarities of the public sector in the operation of processes are well known. Therefore, this study examines the drivers of RPA acceptance and usage behavior in public sector institutions. As a result of a grounded theory study, a theoretical framework with factors for evaluating RPA user acceptance is developed and an understanding of its facilitators is gained. The findings also provide practical recommendations for guiding RPA implementation in public sector institutions.

Examination of the effects of innovation development, technology management and big data analytics capability in information technology companies

PurposeThe main purpose of examining innovation development (ID), technology management (TM) and big data analytics capability (BDAC) from the perspective of information technology companies is to help these companies optimize their business strategies and increase their competitiveness. When these concepts are considered together, it is aimed to present suggestions that information technology companies can increase their innovation capacities, optimize their technology portfolios and develop their big data analytics capacities.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from information technology companies working on big data analytics in technoparks in Istanbul. In the research, the Marmara region of Turkey was preferred because it is the region where the information technology sector is most common. In total, 503 questionnaires were collected. SmartPLS (4.0.8.4) licensed software was used in the research, and the results are presented with tables and figures.FindingsAs a result of the analysis of the data, it is supported by hypotheses that ID and TM have positive effects as independent variables and BDAC has positive effects as both independent and mediation variables.Research limitations/implicationsIn terms of the limitations of the research, since the data were collected only from the information technology companies in the technoparks in Istanbul, it would not be correct to generalize the analysis results. For this reason, it is recommended to develop a research model and contribute to the literature by considering this limited situation for similar studies to be conducted in the future.Practical implicationsBy focusing on ID, it is important for companies to analyze their innovation processes and increase their ID capacity. On the subject of TM, analyses help companies identify their current technological infrastructure and development needs and optimize their technology portfolios. Big data analytics is an important tool that companies can use in their decision-making processes. Therefore, analyses of big data analytics can evaluate companies' current data analytics capacities and offer improvement suggestions.Originality/valueSo why are ID, TM and BDAC important? Why should a research model be developed to examine the effects of these variables? This situation can be understood by looking at the investments made by two world-class companies with headquarters in Istanbul/Turkey. L'Oréal Turkey integrates big data, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and digital platforms into its business processes by investing in new technologies and also makes a difference with innovation in environmental sustainability and social responsibility. PepsiCo, on the other hand, placed a great emphasis on innovation by opening its third Design and Innovation Center in Turkey and Europe in Istanbul. For this reason, examining the effects of ID, TM and big data analytics together in the research is important for the originality of the research. Examining these variables by focusing on their interactions and effects increases the originality of the subject.

Modern Breeding Strategies and Tools for Durable Late Blight Resistance in Potato.

Cultivated potato (Solanum tuberosum) is a major crop worldwide. It occupies the second place after cereals (corn, rice, and wheat). This important crop is threatened by the Oomycete Phytophthora infestans, the agent of late blight disease. This pathogen was first encountered during the Irish famine during the 1840s and is a reemerging threat to potatoes. It is mainly controlled chemically by using fungicides, but due to health and environmental concerns, the best alternative is resistance. When there is no disease, no treatment is required. In this study, we present a summary of the ongoing efforts concerning resistance breeding of potato against this devastating pathogen, P. infestans. This work begins with the search for and selection of resistance genes, whether they are from within or from outside the species. The genetic methods developed to date for gene mining, such as effectoromics and GWAS, provide researchers with the ability to identify genes of interest more efficiently. Once identified, these genes are cloned using molecular markers (MAS or QRL) and can then be introduced into different cultivars using somatic hybridization or recombinant DNA technology. More innovative technologies have been developed lately, such as gene editing using the CRISPR system or gene silencing, by exploiting iRNA strategies that have emerged as promising tools for managing Phytophthora infestans, which can be employed. Also, gene pyramiding or gene stacking, which involves the accumulation of two or more R genes on the same individual plant, is an innovative method that has yielded many promising results. All these advances related to the development of molecular techniques for obtaining new potato cultivars resistant to P. infestans can contribute not only to reducing losses in agriculture but especially to ensuring food security and safety.

Counter Measures to Combat Money Laundering in the New Digital Age

Money Laundering has been a significant concern for governments, law enforcement agencies, and financial institutions worldwide. With the advancement of technology, money laundering techniques have evolved in the digital age, presenting new challenges for authorities and financial institutions. Criminals leverage innovative digital platforms, cryptocurrencies, and virtual assets to launder illicit funds while maintaining anonymity and complexity in their transactions. In this article, we examine the money laundering techniques in the digital age and the challenges posed by these techniques and the implications for the global financial system. Furthermore, the article explores the role of regulatory frameworks, technological solutions, and international cooperation in mitigating the risks associated with digital money laundering. We also explore the countermeasures implemented to detect and prevent these illicit activities. Enhanced Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations, robust transaction monitoring systems, international collaboration, and innovative technologies are among the critical measures to combat digital money laundering.

Innovation In The Energy Sector: The Transition To Renewable Sources As A Strategic Step Towards Sustainable Development

Purpose: The purpose of the research is a comprehensive analysis of innovative technologies in renewable energy sources and their strategic importance for sustainable development. Design/Methodology/Approach: This study employs a qualitative research design to explore the strategic transition to renewable energy sources to achieve sustainable development. A qualitative approach is chosen to provide in-depth insights into stakeholders' experiences, perceptions, and motivations in this transition. Relevant documents such as policy reports, strategic plans, and case studies were reviewed to provide contextual background and support the findings. The analysis considers the top 10 countries with the highest Energy Transition Index (ETI) scores for 2023. Data from documents were triangulated to enhance the credibility and reliability of the findings. Findings: The results indicate the need for a paradigm shift in the energy sector by reducing dependence on imported fuels and reorienting to renewable sources. Research Limitation/Implications: Realizing Europe’s potential faces several barriers, including the need for significant investment, developing an enabling regulatory environment and overcoming technological challenges. Practical Implication: The dynamism of the energy sector is having a significant impact on the transition of developed nations to renewable energy sources, as they play a pivotal role in shaping the sustainable future of global energy. Social Implication: Innovations in renewable energy have the potential to radically transform the energy landscape, offering solutions to today’s pressing environmental and economic challenges. Originality/ Value: The novelty of the study lies in a comprehensive analysis of the energy sector and emphasising the strategic importance of renewable energy sources for sustainable development. The study highlights innovative achievements in the field of renewable energy and important challenges faced by the energy transformation process.

The new role of sustainable hydropower in flexible energy systems and its technical evolution through innovation and digitalization

Hydropower has played an important role in Europe in recent decades, offering a unique combination of safe, low-cost, and clean power generation. Today, it is still one of the largest renewable energy sources (RES), accounting for about 35 % of RES electricity generation. However, grid stability is threatened by the increasing amount of undispatchable RES. Flexibility and dynamics such as energy storage and rapid response are urgently needed to achieve EU policy goals. In such a context, hydropower can play a key role, not only as a provider of regulated renewable energy but also due to its ability to balance a renewable energy system in the short term and the medium/long term by pumped storage technology. All these aspects underline the new role of hydropower, which aims to strengthen grid stability and power supply resilience and to enable higher penetration of volatile RES. In this context, the aim of this paper is to demonstrate the role of hydropower at the European level as well as the needs and opportunities of modernization to fully exploit its potential. In particular, this study provides, the assessment of the today flexibility offered by hydropower to the power system at the European level by leveraging a database of information collected through the participants to the working groups of the COST Action Pen@Hydropower which includes stakeholders in the hydropower sector of 34 European countries. The study confirms the key role of hydropower in future energy scenarios with 30 % of the flexibility demand at all time scales met by hydropower. Furthermore, the paper presents a review of the digitalization solutions and innovative technologies that support the growth of a new generation of sustainable hydropower together with the modernization opportunities for existing hydropower plants. The results of this work have practical implications for stakeholders in the hydropower sector and policymakers as it provides evidence at the European scale of the role of hydropower technology in balancing the power system and the need to have supportive frameworks and adequate markets to fully exploit the European hydropower potential to achieve the energy transition goals.

MDB-12. NANOPORE SEQUENCING AS A CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY FOR MEDULLOBLASTOMA CLASSIFICATION

Abstract INTRODUCTION Medulloblastoma (MB) is one of the most prevalent embryonal malignant brain tumors, divided into four distinct molecular subgroups (WNT, SHH, group 3, and group 4) with its individual prognosis. A more extensive classification of MB has recently been provided, identifying numerous subtypes, some with poor prognosis, leading to a significant number of patients succumbing to the disease while many survivors experience long-term side effects, highlighting the need for efficient subgrouping methods. Distinct genome-wide DNA methylation profiles characterize each MB subgroup, and the advent of Nanopore DNA sequencing has positioned itself as a reliable technique for comprehensive copy number and methylation profiling. MATERIAL AND METHODS We evaluated the ability of Nanopore sequencing to provide clinically relevant methylation and copy number profiles of MB, on a discovery cohort of 45 frozen MB samples, benchmarked against the gold standard EPIC array, and subsequently validated on a cohort of 116 MB samples. RESULTS The majority of MB in both the discovery cohort (43/45; 95.6%) and the validation cohort (110/116; 94.8%) were accurately subgrouped by Nanopore sequencing. Flongle flow cells for 18 MB allowed for a more rapid and cost-effective analysis, with 94.4% (17/18) being correctly classified. Additionally, Nanopore sequencing allowed us to correctly subtype 24/30 (80.0%) within MB groups. DISCUSSION We provided proof of concept that Nanopore sequencing can subgroup MB using DNA extracted from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples and cell-free DNA obtained from cerebrospinal fluid. This first large-scale study establishes the proof of concept that this modern and innovative technology is well-suited for MB classification. We confirm the use of Nanopore sequencing on circulating DNA and present an initial exploration of its application on DNA extracted from FFPE samples. Its ability to deliver quick and cost-effective results firmly establishes Nanopore sequencing as a game-changer in the field of MB classification.

Physical Distribution Strategies and the Marketing Performance of Bottled Water Companies in Calabar, Nigeria

This research examined the effect of physical distribution strategies on the marketing performance of bottled water companies in Calabar. It employed a cross-sectional survey approach. Primary data were collected from 276 operational personnel of bottled water companies in Calabar through a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were applied to analyze and interpret the data, while multiple linear regression was utilized to test the hypotheses. The results unveiled significant positive impacts of order processing, transportation, inventory, and warehousing management on the marketing performance of bottled water companies in Calabar, Nigeria. Therefore, the study recommends the following, among others: bottled water companies should integrate innovative technologies into their order processing systems, such as automated order placement, and order sorting software to ensure the delivery of accurate and personalized orders to customers at all times; a robust transportation management system characterized by timely carrier scheduling, clear route planning and automated carrier tracking should be in place to enable bottled water companies achieve effective distribution of products to customers when needed; and bottled water companies should prioritize inventory management through strategic inventory planning, automated inventory control and prompt inventory replacement to ensure that inventory resources required for production and customer service are consistently available in appropriate quantities and quality.

Automatic crack detection and structural inspection of cultural heritage buildings using UAV photogrammetry and digital twin technology

Current methods for rapidly inspecting structures are difficult to document and subjective. Automating the process with innovative technologies is necessary to overcome these limitations. Precisely monitoring cracking in cultural heritage buildings is vital as they pose a significant risk to their integrity. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence, including imaging equipment and computer vision, offer significant advantages for automating the detection of structural cracks. This study conducted tests to investigate utilizing unmanned aerial vehicle photogrammetry, a modern surveying method, for monitoring such inspections. Initially, a level of detail 3 digital model of the structure was generated. Finally, the metric accuracy of the detected cracks was analyzed. The cracks measured by the traditional method were considered as reference data and compared with the automatically detected cracks. As a result, 83 % of the cracks were detected by the modern techniques and the RMSE value was 0.802 cm because of the metric comparison.

Study on the Identification of Execution Errors, Causes, and Specific Corrective Kinetic and Prophylactic Means in Free Throws in Basketball

The identification of execution errors in real-time correction through an innovative specific device to free throw refinement, and through corrective kinetic and prophylactic exercises adapted to basketball game. The study included 92 subjects structured into sports categories: U14, U16, U18, and by gender: female (46 subjects) and male (46 subjects). Subjects were observed to identify the incidence of execution errors in free throws, their causes and correction methods during the study's testing. The study results highlight the decrease in the number of execution errors between the final and initial testing due to the implementation of innovative technology specific to free throw refinement and the application of specific corrective kinetic and prophylactic exercises. For all junior and gender categories of the study, the number of errors decreased in the final testing compared to the initial one, highlighting the importance of identifying errors and causes in real-time and correcting them through specific means.