bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypotensive episodes at 24-h Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring predict adverse outcomes in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Vallelonga Fabrizio , Valente Matteo , Tangari Marta Maria , Covolo Anna , Milazzo Valeria , Stefano Cristina Di , Sobrero Gabriele , Giudici Marta , Milan Alberto , Veglio Franco , Lopiano Leonardo , Maule Simona , Romagnolo Alberto
Published: February 2024

Purpose. Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH) is a frequent non-motor feature of Parkinson’s disease (PD), associated with adverse outcomes. Recently, 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) has been shown to diagnose nOH with good accuracy (in the presence of at least 2 episodes of systolic BP drop ≥ 15 mmHg compared to the average 24-h). This study aims at evaluating the prognostic role of ABPM-hypotensive episodes in predicting PD disability milestones and mortality and comparing it to well-defined prognostic role of nOH. Methods. PD patients who underwent ABPM from January 2012 to December 2014 were retrospectively enrolled and assessed for the development of falls, fractures, dementia, bed/wheelchair confinement, hospitalization, mortality, during an up-to-10-year follow-up. Results. Ninety-nine patients (male 74%; age: 64.0 ± 10.1 years; PD duration: 6.4 ± 4.0 years) were enrolled. At baseline, 38.4% of patients had ABPM-hypotensive episodes and 46.5% had bedside nOH. At Kaplan-Meier analysis patients with ABPM-hypotensive episodes had an earlier onset of falls (p = 0.001), fractures (p = 0.004), hospitalizations (p = 0.009), bed/wheelchair confinement (p = 0.032), dementia (p = 0.001), and showed a shorter survival (8.0vs9.5 years; p = 0.009). At Cox regression analysis (adjusted for age, disease duration, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and H&Y stage at baseline) a significant association was confirmed between ABPM-hypotensive episodes and falls (OR:3.626; p = 0.001), hospitalizations (OR:2.016; p = 0.038), and dementia (OR:2.926; p = 0.008), while bedside nOH was only associated with falls (OR 2.022; p = 0.039) and dementia (OR:1.908; p = 0.048). Conclusion. The presence of at least two ABPM-hypotensive episodes independently predicted the development of falls, dementia, and hospitalization, showing a stronger prognostic value than the simple bedside assessment.
Stress Echocardiographic Myocardial Work in Healthy Adults and Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction Patients and Doubt about Early Systolic Lengthening
Authors: Huang Liwei , Ye Luwei , Zhang Hongmei , Zhang Qingfeng , Ding Geqi , Li Chunmei , Deng Yan , Yin Lixue , Wang Yi
Published: February 2024

Background The aims of this study were (1) to characterize myocardial work (MW) changes from rest to after exercise in healthy adults and heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), and (2) to explore the factors influencing the decrease in global work efficiency (GWE) after exercise in healthy adults.Methods This study enrolled 167 healthy adults and 38 HFpEF patients. All subjects underwent echocardiographic assessment at rest and immediately after a symptom-limited treadmill stress test.Results GWE decreased after exercise in healthy adults. It was higher in women after exercise (women: 93% vs. men: 91%, p < 0.05). GWE was significantly lower after exercise in HFpEF patients (HFpEF: 85% vs. healthy: 92%, p < 0.05). The peak positive strain (PPS) was independently associated with global wasted work (GWW) both in healthy adults and HFpEF patients (healthy adults: r = 0.77, p < 0.001 at rest; r = 0.72, p < 0.001 after exercise; HFpEF: r = 0.74, p < 0.001 at rest; and r = 0.62, p < 0.001 after exercise).Conclusions MW parameters were less affected by sex in healthy individuals. MW parameters were lower in HFpEF than healthy adults both at rest and after exercise. GWE decreased in healthy adults after exercise because of increased GWW, and PPS was independently associated with GWW both at rest and under load, suggesting that early systolic lengthening (ESL) may be beneficial for subsequent contraction of the myocardium.
Factors Influencing Contraceptive Utilisation Among Postpartum Adolescent Mothers: a Cross Sectional Study at China-uganda Friendship Hospital
Authors: Wambi Rogers , Mujuzi Huzaima , Siya Aggrey , Ibanda Ivan , Doreen Nalubiri , Changulo Maryhilda C , Walimbwa Stanely
Published: February 2024

Background
Globally, modern contraceptives remain underutilized among postpartum mothers resulting in the rise of short interpregnancy intervals. This is even severe in low-income countries where health information access regarding such interventions is limited, undermining their uptake. While there are a range of other factors that can influence the uptake of such services, understanding of the significance of their influence is critical in public health programming. This study sought to analyze maternal and health facility factors influencing the utilization of contraceptives among postpartum mothers in urban areas of Uganda.
Methods
In the year 2023, we conducted a health facility-based survey in urban areas of Kampala, Uganda using cross sectional study design approaches. A total of 332 women aged between 15 and22 years were randomly selected for the interviews using semi-structured interview questionnaires. We used descriptive statistics, multivariable logistic and multinomial regression to compare age, occupation, women’s preferred contraceptive, distance from a health facility, service payment, as potential factors influencing uptake and utilization of family planning methods.
Results
An overall 28.3% utilization of contraceptives was realized in the current study. The majority of the respondents 98 (29.52) were within the age group of 17–18 years and unmarried 76.81%(255/332). Significantly associated factors were; income below UgX. 500,000 (p = 0.002), housewife and student (p = 0.006).
Conclusions
Basing on the low contraceptive utilization, understanding the attitudes and views of postpartum teenagers regarding contraception is crucial for creating effective intervention, given the negative effects of adolescent pregnancy. Adolescent mothers are a challenging demographic to interact with, therefore focus groups with them offer a forum for delving into this intricate problem.
Morphological study of dorsal Barton's fracture based on three-dimensional CT imaging
Authors: Han Mingxuan , Li Cong , Han Ning , Sun Guixin
Published: February 2024

Background
Dorsal Barton's fracture is a distinct type of distal radius fracture. The treatment of dorsal Barton's fracture is contentious and may lead to severe complications like traumatic arthritis and fracture malunion. Furthermore, there is a scarcity of clinical studies on dorsal Barton's fractures. This study aims to use three-dimensional (3D) CT scans to more intuitively and clearly depict the characteristics and patterns of dorsal Barton fractures. The objective is to deepen the understanding of such fractures, providing reference significance for clinical treatment.
Methods
The patients with dorsal Barton's fracture who met the inclusion criteria in our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. 3D models of dorsal Barton's fracture were established by high-quality CT scanning, and the relevant data of different sections were measured to obtain the fracture characteristics of dorsal Barton's fracture.
Results
This study included 122 patients, comprising 39 males and 83 females. The average age for males was 55.21 years (range: 19–87 years), and for females, it was 63.88 years (range: 42–89 years). Among the 39 cases of dorsal Barton's fractures, 27 were single dorsal fractures, including 22 cases of dorsal ulnar Barton's fractures, 3 cases of dorsal radial Barton's fractures, and 2 cases of dorsal horizontal Barton's fractures. Twelve cases presented with 2 dorsal fractures, but none had 3 dorsal fractures. Among the 83 cases of female dorsal Barton's fractures, 59 were single dorsal fractures, including 55 cases of dorsal ulnar Barton's fractures, 3 cases of dorsal radial Barton's fractures, and 1 case of dorsal horizontal Barton's fracture. Twenty-two cases had 2 dorsal fractures, and 2 cases had 3 dorsal fractures.
Conclusions
Dorsal Barton fractures exhibit variability in fracture line and number, showing morphological distinctions. The 3D fracture line map of dorsal Barton's fracture, derived from CT 3D reconstruction, not only reveals relevant characteristics but also aids in basic research and the determination of an appropriate surgical plan based on fracture line distribution.
The Prisoner’s Dilemma game as a tool to investigate cooperation and undergraduate education in evolution
Authors: Russell James E. , Xu Xin
Published: February 2024

Evolutionary theory is based on the conflict that arises when certain heritable variants out-compete others. Given this foundational conflict, a central question for evolutionary biologists concerns the presence of cooperation found throughout all levels of biological organization; from biochemical pathways to complex animal societies. Human behavior is often distinguished from other animal behavior by the presence of acts of cooperative behavior called altruism. Altruism is a cooperative act that penalizes the actor for actions that benefit the recipient. Any other form of cooperation, one that does not penalize the actor, is formally not considered altruistic. How can costly altruistic behavior evolve? This question was the basis for development of a web application tool incorporating a game theory model to investigate conditions affecting cooperative behavior. The game theory model described as Prisoner’s Dilemma incorporates acts of cooperation and non-cooperation (defection). Computer simulations of Prisoner’s Dilemma were developed and online applications were administered for five semesters at Georgia Gwinnet College, using two simulation environments referred to as Random and Non-random. Data collected from simulation runs were used to evaluate the effect of environment on student cooperative behavior and actively engage students in concepts associated with the evolution of cooperation and game theory. Results from student game play suggest group simulation environment played a significant role in the likelihood of observing cooperative behavior. Educational content and attitudinal surveys suggested that PD game play in the undergraduate evolution class at Georgia Gwinnett College improved student knowledge and self-confidence.
Comprehensive Analysis of Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing Characterizes Age-Related Exercise Performance in Growing Children and Adolescents
Authors: Kourpas Katerina , Tsuda Takeshi
Published: February 2024

Background Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) estimates physical fitness level and cardiovascular reserve. How age-related growth and maturation affect exercise performance is complex, especially due to changes in body habitus during puberty.
Methods Peak and submaximal CPET parameters by cycle ergometer were retrospectively analyzed to characterize how age and sex affect exercise performance during adolescence.
Results One hundred sixty five young subjects were divided into six groups based upon their ages: ≤ 11 years old (yo) (24 males, 20 females), 12 to 15 yo (34 males, 41 females), and ≥ 16 yo (27 males, 19 females). Peak heart rate (HR) was comparable among all groups. Peak systolic blood pressure, peak oxygen consumption (VO2), peak work rate (WR), peak oxygen pulse (OP), and peak minute ventilation (VE) showed age-dependent increase in both sexes with more progressive increase in males than in females. Weight-indexed stroke volume estimate (D[VO2/kg]/DHR and peak OP/kg) was comparable in all male groups but was lower in female ³ 12 yo groups than in ≤ 11 yo group, whereas heart rate-dependency (DHR/D[WR/kg]) revealed continuous decrease with ages in males with no change in females. Regression lines between weight and peak VO2 demonstrated significant age-related increase of slope in males but not in females, suggesting age-related skeletal muscle enhancement only in males. Gradual increase in work efficiency (lower ΔVO2/ΔWR), ventilatory efficiency (lower ΔVE/ΔVCO2), and peak respiratory exchange ratio were noted with increase in ages independent of sex, indicating common functional maturation with age.
Conclusion Age-related increase in exercise performance during adolescence is complex, characterized by the increased body size due to linear growth (males more than females), sex-dependent pubertal changes (more muscle mass and strength in males and more fat mass in females), and sex-independent enhanced functional maturation. This unique and simple CPET analysis can provide us with a wealth of data representing underlying exercise physiology of ordinary adolescents. These noninvasive biomarkers would help us better understand the cardiopulmonary reserve in those with borderline physical conditioning and those with subclinical cardiovascular abnormalities.
Study on the variation characteristics and influencing factors of stem water content of Acer truncatum during the overwintering period
Authors: Xu Zehai , Zhao Yandong
Published: February 2024

Stem water content is a pivotal parameter that characterizes the vitality of plants and maintains their internal water balance. Given the insufficient comprehension regarding the stem water content characteristics and its influencing factors during different stages of the overwintering period, the study, focusing on Acer truncatum., developed an Internet of Things (IoT)-based ecological information monitoring system. The system incorporated a proprietary stem water content sensor, allowing non-invasive, in-situ and real time acquisition of stem water content while monitoring diverse environmental parameters. We conducted a detailed elucidation of stem water content variation characteristics and its responses to diverse environmental factors. The results shouwed: (1) During the overwintering period, stem water content exhibited diurnal variations characterized by " daytime ascent and nighttime descent" across the three stages, exhibiting differences in the moment when the stem water content reaching extremal values and daily fluctuations ranges. Stem water content exhibited minimal fluctuations during deciduous and bud-breaking stages but experienced significant freezing-thawing alternations during the dormant stage, leading to increased daily fluctuation range. (2) Pearson correlation coefficients between environmental parameters and stem water content varied dynamically across stages. Path analysis revealed: during the deciduous stage, stem temperature and saturation vapor pressure deficit were dominant factors influencing stem water content; during dormant stage, air temperature and saturation vapor pressure deficit directly impacted stem water content; during the bud-breaking stage, the primary parameters affecting stem water content were saturation vapor pressure deficit and stem temperature. The study provides valuable insights into unveiling the water transport patterns within tree stems tissue and their environmental adaptation mechanisms during the overwintering period, aiding in the scientific development of winter management strategies to protect trees from severe cold and freezing damage, while fostering healthy growth in the subsequent year.
Drowning in the Ripple Effect: Identifying a Syndemic Network of Health Experience with Modifiable Health Behaviours using the UK Biobank
Authors: Vereeken Silke , Bedendo Andre , Gilbody Simon , Hewit Catherine E.
Published: February 2024

A Syndemic model of health experience in severe mental illness (SMI) involving modifiable health behaviour contributors has been theorised but has not yet been investigated. Over the next 10 years mental ill-health and suicidal behaviours have been predicted to increase which will decrease health experience and increase hospitalisation and associated costs. This paper investigated a Syndemic model of health experience in people with SMI informed by physical activity levels, exposure to nature, personal resilience levels, addictive (tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption), and sleep behaviours. Results indicate partial evidence for a Syndemic model, with personal resilience being at its centre. Contrary to previous findings, addictive behaviours did not play an important role in the model. Implementing a Syndemic framework approach to current health care strategies could be beneficial in the development of self-management strategies for people with SMI. This is the first paper using SEM analyses to investigate SMI under the Syndemic theory paradigm.
Bispecific aptamer-decorated and light-triggered nanoparticles targeting tumor and stromal cells in breast cancer derived organoids: implications for precision phototherapies
Authors: Camorani Simona , Caliendo Alessandra , Morrone Elena , Agnello Lisa , Martini Matteo , Cantile Monica , Cerrone Margherita , Zannetti Antonella , Deda Massimo La , Fedele Monica , Ricciardi Loredana , Cerchia Laura
Published: February 2024

Background
Based on the established role of cancer-stroma cross-talk in tumor growth, progression and chemoresistance, targeting interactions between tumor cells and their stroma provides new therapeutic approaches. Dual-targeted nanotherapeutics selectively acting on both tumor and stromal cells may overcome the limits of tumor cell-targeting single-ligand nanomedicine due to the complexity of the tumor microenvironment.
Methods
Gold-core/silica-shell nanoparticles embedding a water-soluble iridium(III) complex as photosensitizer and luminescent probe (Iren-AuSiO2_COOH) were efficiently decorated with amino-terminated EGFR (CL4) and PDGFRβ (Gint4.T) aptamers (Iren-AuSiO2_Aptamer). The targeting specificity, and the synergistic photodynamic and photothermal effects of either single- and dual-aptamer-decorated nanoparticles have been assessed by confocal microscopy and cell viability assays, respectively, on different human cell types including mesenchymal subtype triple-negative breast cancer (MES-TNBC) MDA-MB-231 and BT-549 cell lines (both EGFR and PDGFRβ positive), luminal/HER2-positive breast cancer BT-474 and epidermoid carcinoma A431 cells (only EGFR positive) and adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) (only PDGFRβ positive). Cells lacking expression of both receptors were used as negative controls. To take into account the tumor-stroma interplay, fluorescence imaging and cytotoxicity were evaluated in preclinical three-dimensional (3D) stroma-rich breast cancer models.
Results
We show efficient capability of Iren-AuSiO2_Aptamer nanoplatforms to selectively enter into target cells, and kill them, through EGFR and/or PDGFRβ recognition. Importantly, by targeting EGFR+ tumor/PDGFRβ+ stromal cells in the entire tumor bulk, the dual-aptamer-engineered nanoparticles resulted more effective than unconjugated or single-aptamer-conjugated nanoparticles in either 3D spheroids cocultures of tumor cells and MSCs, and in breast cancer organoids derived from pathologically and molecularly well-characterized tumors.
Conclusions
Our study proposes smart, novel and safe multifunctional nanoplatforms simultaneously addressing cancer-stroma within the tumor microenvironment, which are: (i) actively delivered to the targeted cells through highly specific aptamers; (ii) localized by means of their luminescence, and (iii) activated via minimally invasive light, launching efficient tumor death, thus providing innovative precision therapeutics. Given the unique features, the proposed dual targeted nanoformulations may open a new door to precision cancer treatment.
The fabrication and hemostasis of controlled-size chitosan microspheres：A preliminary research
Authors: Zhou Huajun , Wen Chaojun , Xia Zhuoheng , Ding Yude , Yang Fan
Published: February 2024

Extreme bleeding can make therapy challenging or even fatal. Even though several commercial homeostatic medicines have favorable clinical results, there is still a desire to discover materials that are effective, bio-safe, inexpensive, and simple to produce. In this study, regulated and uniformly sized chitosan microspheres (CSM) were fabricated using a simple process and assessed as hemostatic agents. In addition, the diameter criteria for optimal hemostatic effects were evaluated. Precipitation and coaxial airflow shear technique were used to fabricate CSM with a controlled and homogeneous particle size. Secondly, scanning electron microscope and N2 adsorption-desorption isotherm characterization, water absorption experiments, and in vitro coagulation evaluation demonstrated that the CSM produced in this experiment have a porous structure, a high specific surface area, and a high-water absorption capacity. The hemostatic effect was investigated using a rabbit blood coagulation experiment in vitro. To further examine the hemostatic effect using an arterial/venous bleeding model in rats. The results were superior to those in the blank control group. The hemostatic effect is related to the diameter of the microspheres. In these experiments, large diameter chitosan microspheres possessed superior hemostatic effect. Hence, these novel CSM show considerable potential for use in hemostatic events and demonstrated a diameter-dependent hemostatic effect.
Development of a method to investigate the influence of engine oil and its additives on combustion anomalies in hydrogen engines
Authors: Gschiel Kevin , Wilfling Kevin , Schneider Michael
Published: February 2024

To counteract the anticipated consequences of climate change, significant efforts are required across all industries. The use of hydrogen in internal combustion engines can make a valuable contribution as a carbon-neutral bridging technology. One challenge in developing a suitable combustion process is the high ignition propensity of hydrogen, impacting combustion stability due to combustion anomalies. Avoiding such combustion phenomena is of utmost relevance to ensure a long-term stable engine operation. Oil entry into the combustion chamber can impact the occurrence of combustion anomalies. Therefore, a specific method for controlled oil entry into the combustion chamber has been developed, and this method is detailed in the following article.
Cubixel: A Novel Paradigm in Image Processing Using Three-Dimensional Pixel Representation
Authors: Aburass Sanad
Published: February 2024

This paper introduces the innovative concept of the Cubixel—a three-dimensional representation of the traditional pixel—alongside the derived metric, Volume of the Void (VoV), which measures spatial disparities within images. By converting pixels into Cubixels, we can analyze the image's 3D properties, thereby enriching image processing and computer vision tasks. Utilizing Cubixels, we've developed algorithms for advanced image segmentation, edge detection, texture analysis, and feature extraction, yielding a deeper comprehension of image content. Our experimental results on benchmark datasets showcase the superiority of our methods in performance and execution speed compared to conventional techniques. Further, we discuss future applications of Cubixels and VoV in various domains, particularly in medical imaging, where they have the potential to significantly enhance diagnostic processes. By interpreting images as complex 'urban landscapes', we envision a new frontier for deep learning models that simulate and learn from diverse environmental conditions. The integration of Cubixels into deep learning architectures promises to revolutionize the field, providing a pathway towards more intelligent, context-aware artificial intelligence systems. With this groundbreaking work, we aim to inspire future research that will unlock the full potential of image data, transforming both theoretical understanding and practical applications. Our code is available at https://github.com/sanadv/Cubixel.
Life-cycle Cost Assessment of RC Frames Using Multi-level Performance-based Structural Optimisation
Authors: DONG GEYU , Asadi Payam , Pilakoutas Kypros , Hajirasouliha Iman
Published: February 2024

Most conventional seismic design approaches aim to provide solutions with sufficient strength to primarily ensure “life safety”, but cannot directly limit structural damage under different hazard levels. They generally lack provisions for determining whether structural configurations can be improved to achieve greater cost efficiency. This study adopts life-cycle cost analysis as an assessment tool to investigate economic efficiency of RC frames that are designed using a performance-based optimisation method centred on the concept of Uniform Damage Distribution (UDD). In optimisation approach, both local (i.e. plastic hinge rotation) and global (i.e. inter-storey drift) structural responses are controlled to closely approach the target limits at multiple performance levels, minimising building’s initial construction cost. To evaluate total life-cycle costs, the expected structural damage losses due to future earthquakes are calculated in a probabilistic manner. The total life-cycle costs are determined for optimised and code-based 3-, 5-, 10- and 15-storey RC frames. The results highlight that, compared to the Eurocode-based frames, optimum design solutions: (i) reduce initial costs by up to 15%, (ii) achieve up to 64% savings in total life-cycle costs, and (iii) result up to 85% less global structural damage under a wide range of earthquake intensities. Based on sensitivity analysis on the selection of different earthquake records, it is recommended to adopt a group of spectrum-compatible artificial earthquakes for the optimisation process rather than natural records. The proposed optimisation can lead to considerable savings not only in initial costs, but also in expected total life-cycle costs of RC frames.
The Effect of Human Lyophilized Growth Factors versus Platelet Rich Plasma Injection on Hair Transplantation Outcome in the Crown Area of the scalp in men with androgenetic alopecia
Authors: elshahid Ahmed , Mostafa Amr Mohamed , Fnoon Ahmed Waheed Kheder , Abdelshakour Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Background: Experts in hair growth (HG) from the fields of dermatology and plastic surgery routinely utilize autologous activated PRP (AA-PRP). Lyophilized growth factors (L-GFs) are a kind of PRP that has had its growth factor concentrations standardized.
Aims and objectives: To compare the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection and L-GFs injection in follicular unit extraction hair transplantation in the Crown Area of the scalp in men with androgenetic alopecia.
Subjects and methods: This research was done on forty male patients with crown area baldness with no previous treatment or hair transplant. They were divided into 2 groups: Group A: which involved 20 cases who received L-GF injections, and Group B: which included 20 cases who received PRP. Treatment was done in 3 sessions before and 3 sessions after hair transplantation using Follicular unit extraction (FUE).
Results:There was no statistically significant variance amongst the two studied groups at 1 month, 2 months, and 6 months about hair density, length, patient satisfaction, redness, surgeon satisfaction, texture, and thickness of hair. There was statistically significant variance among the studied groups (PRP and L-GF) concerning density at 3 months of the study and a highly statistically significant increased percentage of redness at 3 months.
Conclusion: PRP and L-GF therapy administered following hair transplantation are useful in that they give quicker density while simultaneously reducing the recovery period. There is not a significant distinction between the two treatments in terms of the results obtained in terms of hair density, length, patient happiness, or surgeon satisfaction. The Results of L-GF are slightly better than PRP but statistically insignificant. L-GF offers benefits over traditional autologous PRP in terms of the standardization of the preparation procedure and the great concentrations of growth factors present in L-GF.
Phage-mediated aggregation of gold nanoparticles for visual detection of Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Authors: Li Zhiwei , Wang Xiaoran , Yan Yi , Huang Chenxi , Ding Yifeng , Wang Jia , Fang Rendong , Wang Xiaohong
Published: February 2024

Background
Vibrio parahaemolyticus (V. parahaemolyticus) is a foodborne pathogen responsible for bacterial food poisoning, necessitating effective detection strategies.
Results
In this study, the lytic phage VPP1 was isolated and characterized at the biological and genomic levels. VPP1 displayed specificity for V. parahaemolyticus and stability under changing conditions. Genome sequencing of the phage VPP1 revealed a 42,445 bp DNA genome with 64 open reading frames (ORFs), lacking genes involved in pathogenicity or drug resistance. A colorimetric method for the rapid detection of V. parahaemolyticus was subsequently established using gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and the phage VPP1 (AuNPs@VPP1). The aggregation of AuNPs was mediated by the phage VPP1 upon capturing targeted V. parahaemolyticus. The detection process could be completed within 75 minutes, enabling qualitative detection using the naked eye and quantitative detection using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The method enabled the detection of the targeted V. parahaemolyticus within the range of 8.9×101 to 8.9×108 CFU/mL, without noticeable cross-reaction with interfering or dead bacteria. The recoveries of V. parahaemolyticus in spiked lake water and crayfish samples were 81.07–129.17% and 83.78–129.73%, respectively.
Conclusions
This study indicated that phage-mediated aggregation of AuNPs holds promise for rapid and specific detection of pathogens in food.
Heat transfer characteristics of rectangular heat exchanger with circular fin roughness
Authors: Prajapati Tarun Prakash , Gupta Abhishek Kumar , Gangwar Ankur , Singh Harvindra , Kishore Chandra
Published: February 2024

The methodology of the circular fin heat exchanger has been analysis by the help of ANSYS fluent workbench and the Ansys fluent also known as computational fluid dynamics (CFD), which used to design the single heat exchanger rectangular channel with parameters. The single rectangular channel is a 605 mm long with height H = 66 mm and width is 30 mm. Under a constant heat flux of I = 1000 w/m2, a heat exchanger fin tube bank being tested. The results of this investigation lead to the following conclusions: Nusselt number improves with changes in Reynolds number when pitch distance between the circular fins used. Heat transfer grows as well as friction factor reduces with increasing Reynolds number values (Re = 2000–8000). At pitch spacing P/l = 9 mm, P 1 = 21 mm, l = 20 mm, as well as Reynolds number Re = 8000, the number of the heat transfer rate rose 5.28 times.
Continuous Variable Based Quantum Communication in the Ocean
Authors: Meena Ramniwas , Banerjee Subhashish
Published: February 2024

Continuous Variable-Based Quantum Cryptography (CV-QKD) is an emerging field in quantum information science, offering unprecedented security for communication protocols by harnessing the principles of quantum mechanics. However, ocean environments pose unique challenges to quantum communication due to their distinct properties and characteristics. This work investigates the impact of turbulence on the transmission of Gaussian light beams used in a continuous variable-based quantum key distribution system for underwater quantum communication. The objective is to quantitatively analyze the induced losses and propose methodologies to mitigate their effects. To achieve this, we adopt the widely accepted ABCD matrix formalism, which provides a comprehensive framework for characterizing the propagation of optical beams through different media. Moreover, a numerical simulation framework is developed to assess the resulting losses and evaluate the performance of the proposed system. The implications of these numerical simulation frameworks for the design and optimization of quantum communication systems for oceanic environments are thoroughly discussed.
Emergent magnetic field and vector potential of the toroidal magnetic hopfions
Authors: Guslienko Konstantin Y.
Published: February 2024

Magnetic hopfions are localized magnetic solitons with non-zero 3D topological charge (Hopf index). Here I present an analytical calculation of the toroidal magnetic hopfion vector potential, emergent magnetic field, the Hopf index, and the magnetization configuration. The calculation method is based on the concept of the spinor representation of the Hopf mapping. The hopfions with arbitrary values of the azimuthal and poloidal vorticities are considered. The special role of the toroidal coordinates and their connection with the emergent vector potential gauge are demonstrated. The hopfion magnetization field is found explicitly for the arbitrary Hopf indices. It is shown that the Hopf charge density can be represented as a Jacobian of the transformation from the toroidal to the cylindrical coordinates.
Fixations durations on familiar items are longer due to attenuation of exploration
Authors: Nahari Tal , Eldar Eran , Pertzov Yoni
Published: February 2024

Previous studies have shown that fixations on familiar stimuli tend to be longer than on unfamiliar stimuli, putatively due to ongoing retrieval of memory about familiar stimuli. Here, we hypothesized that extended fixations are in fact due to a lesser need to explore an already familiar stimulus. Participants gaze was tracked as they tried to encode or retrieve a familiar face displayed either alone or alongside other unfamiliar faces. Regardless of the memory task (encoding\retrieval), longer fixation durations were observed when a single familiar face was presented alone, and not when presented among unfamiliar ones. Thus, fixations were not prolonged when it was possible to explore other, unfamiliar stimuli. We conclude that prolonged fixations on familiar stimuli reflect a lesser need to explore an already familiar percept. The results underscore how memory representations influence active sensing, yielding fresh insights into efficient deployment of attention resources.
Serotonin Effects on Human iPSC-Derived Neural Cell Functions: from Mitochondria to Depression
Authors: Wetzel Christian , Cardon Iseline , Grobecker Sonja , Jenne Frederike , Jahner Tatjana , Rupprecht Rainer , Milenkovic Vladimir
Published: February 2024

Depression's link to serotonin dysregulation is well-known. The monoamine theory posits that depression results from impaired serotonin activity, leading to the development of antidepressants targeting serotonin levels. However, their limited efficacy suggests a more complex cause. Recent studies highlight mitochondria as key players in depression's pathophysiology. Mounting evidence indicates that mitochondrial dysfunction significantly correlates with major depressive disorder (MDD), underscoring its pivotal role in depression. Exploring the serotonin-mitochondrial connection, our study investigated the effects of chronic serotonin treatment on induced-pluripotent stem cell-derived astrocytes and neurons from healthy controls and two case study patients. One was a patient with antidepressant non-responding MDD ("Non-R") and another had a non-genetic mitochondrial disorder ("Mito"). The results revealed that serotonin altered the expression of genes related to mitochondrial function and dynamics in neurons and had an equalizing effect on calcium homeostasis in astrocytes, while ATP levels seemed increased. Serotonin significantly decreased cytosolic and mitochondrial calcium in neurons. Electrophysiological measurements evidenced that serotonin depolarized the resting membrane potential, increased both sodium and potassium current density and ultimately improved the overall excitability of neurons. Specifically, neurons from the Non-R patient appeared responsive to serotonin in vitro, which seemed to improve neurotransmission. While it is unclear how this translates to the systemic level and AD resistance mechanisms are not fully elucidated, our observations show that despite his treatment resistance, this patient’s cortical neurons are responsive to serotonergic signals. In the Mito patient, evidence suggested that serotonin, by increasing excitability, exacerbated an existing hyperexcitability highlighting the importance of considering mitochondrial disorders in patients with MDD, and avoiding serotonin-increasing medication. Taken together, our findings suggested that serotonin positively affects calcium homeostasis in astrocytes and increases neuronal excitability. The latter effect must be considered carefully, as it could have beneficial or detrimental implications based on individual pathologies.
Perylene-Based Columnar Liquid Crystal: Reveling Unipolar Resistive Switching for Nonvolatile Memory Devices
Authors: Avila L.B. , Chulkin P. , Serrano P.A. , Dreyer J.P. , Berteau-Rainville M. , Orgiu E. , Zimmermann L.M. , Bock H. , Faria G.C. , Eccher J. , Bechtold I.H.
Published: February 2024

Perylene-based columnar liquid crystal (LC) devices exhibit unipolar resistive switching (RS), clearly identified on cyclic J-V curve hysteresis, stable for several cycles. Trap-controlled SCLC conduction is responsible for the charge transport in the active layer, where the “set” and “reset” processes occur. The incorporation of ZnO@SiO2 quantum dots significantly enhances the RS response. The distinguishing result presented here is the ability to write-read-erase-read, controlling the "on" and "off" states by applying an external electric field, allowing to store and read information multiple times. An endurance of nearly one order of magnitude between the low and high RS states was determined over 50 consecutive cycles. The device proved to be resilient, preserving the resistive switching effect and memory capacity even after one year maintained at room temperature in ambient atmosphere. DFT calculations indicate a conduction mechanism based on reversible reductions of the perylene LC molecules. This article highlights the ability of LCs to store and process information via their resistivity, with potential for the production of low-cost and large-area nonvolatile printed organic memories.
Les inégalités numériques en éducation : une revue narrative de littérature
Authors: Fenoglio Prisca
Published: February 2024

Cette contribution est une revue narrative de littérature issue d’une synthèse de médiation scientifique sur les inégalités numériques en éducation, dont l’objectif est de (1) prolonger notre synthèse par les questions suivantes : quels chantiers pour la recherche ? Quels concepts heuristiques ? Quelles pistes pour la pratique ? (2) réfléchir aux liens entre la recherche et la médiation scientifiques. Notre ancrage théorique est à la croisée de l’approche sociocritique des usages numériques éducatifs, de la didactique et de la médiation scientifique. Notre corpus, dont les critères d’inclusion sont explicités, est constitué de 80 études issues de travaux européens et nord-américains publiés entre 2002 et 2022. Cette étude permet de mettre au jour, en réponse à nos questions : des problématiques en chantier – une cartographie des inégalités d’usage chez les personnes enseignantes à compléter, des liens avec les parcours scolaires à préciser, des biais de conception à examiner, des notions désignant la participation (ou l’exclusion) aux environnements numériques à creuser –, ainsi que des concepts féconds d’un point de vue heuristique et, possiblement, pour la pratique, tels que le capital numérique et la littéracie.
Enjeux éthiques et critiques de l’intelligence artificielle en éducation : une revue systématique de la littérature
Authors: Collin Simon , Lepage Alexandre , Nebel Léo
Published: February 2024

Bien qu’ils aient été étudiés depuis les années 2000, les enjeux que suscitent les systèmes d’intelligence artificielle (IA) lorsqu’ils sont utilisés éducation (SIA-ED) font actuellement l’objet d’une attention croissante dans la littérature scientifique. Il est toutefois difficile d’en avoir une vue synthétique car ils sont abordés par les chercheurs et chercheuses au travers de terrains éducatifs, de techniques computationnelles et d’angles d’analyse hétérogènes. Aussi, l’objectif de cet article est de mener une revue systématique de la littérature sur les enjeux éthiques et critiques des SIA-ED afin d’en avoir un meilleur portrait. Une analyse de 58 documents scientifiques nous a amenés à identifier 70 enjeux éthiques et critiques des SIA-ED, que nous avons organisés sous 6 tensions : complexité des situations éducatives vs standardisation technique ; agentivité des acteurs et actrices scolaires vs automatisation technique ; justice scolaire vs rationalité technique ; gouvernance scolaire vs conception technique ; besoin d’intelligibilité des acteurs et actrices scolaires vs opacité technique ; dignité des acteurs et actrices scolaires vs exploitation des données.
Le numérique comme fait social total
Authors: Plantard Pascal , Serreau Matthieu
Published: February 2024

Cet article questionne les dimensions personnelles et collectives des parcours d’appropriation des technologies numériques par les enseignants, les élèves et les familles en se focalisant sur l’évolution de leurs pratiques numériques durant les confinements de 2020 à 2022 en France. Une approche qualitative par entretiens ethnographiques et observations participantes vient compléter les données quantitatives recueillies à partir de cinq enquêtes. Les résultats présentent différentes dynamiques d’appropriation et questionnent les relations entre les différents acteurs. Nous constatons qu’en étudiant les usages des technologies numériques on peut saisir les trois dimensions essentielles du fait social total : sa profondeur historique notamment au niveau des techno-imaginaires ; les signaux faibles qui émergent des nombreuses études d’usages et enfin les transformations psychodynamiques à la fois individuelles et collectives dans la construction des normes sociales d’usages du numérique, particulièrement perceptibles en éducation depuis la pandémie. Ces travaux éclairent et interrogent les représentations, les usages et les imaginaires liés au numérique dans l’éducation et, en particulier, la notion contestable de « digital native ». L’analyse des signaux faibles et des transformations psychodynamiques à l’œuvre pendant les différents confinements atteste d’une contagion du dessaisissement parental vis-à-vis du numérique vers un dessaisissement éducatif et appelle à un ressaisissement collectif.
Comparative analysis of tight-binding models for transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Jorissen Bert , Covaci Lucian , Partoens Bart
Published: February 2024

We provide a comprehensive analysis of the prominent tight-binding (TB) models for transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) available in the literature. We inspect the construction of these TB models, discuss their parameterization used and conduct a thorough comparison of their effectiveness in capturing important electronic properties. Based on these insights, we propose a novel TB model for TMDs designed for enhanced computational efficiency. Utilizing MoS_2MoS2 as a representative case, we explain why specific models offer a more accurate description. Our primary aim is to assist researchers in choosing the most appropriate TB model for their calculations on TMDs.
Algoritmo de Filtro de Kalman Baseado em Modelo Fuzzy Tipo-2 Evolutivo para Rastreamento
Authors: Gomes Daiana Caroline , Serra Ginalber
Published: February 2024

Neste artigo, um filtro de Kalman fuzzy tipo-2 evolutivo e proposto para o processamento intervalar de dados experimentais a partir de componentes espectrais não-observáveis. A metodologia adotada considera as seguintes etapas: um modelo inicial do filtro de Kalman fuzzy tipo-2 evolutivo e identificado de forma off-line a partir de uma janela inicial de dados experimentais; a atualização da proposição do antecedente do filtro de Kalman fuzzy tipo-2 evolutivo e realizada usando uma formulação fuzzy tipo-2 intervalar do algoritmo de agrupamento evolving Takagi-Sugeno (eTS) e a atualização da proposição consequente e realizada usando uma formulação fuzzy tipo-2 do algoritmo Observer/Kalman Filter Identification (OKID), levando em consideração as componentes espectrais não-observáveis extraídas dos dados experimentais por meio de um algoritmo de Análise Espectral Singular Recursiva Multivariável. Resultados experimentais e análise comparativa referentes ao rastreamento intervalar de um helicóptero 2DoF ilustram a eficiência da metodologia proposta.
The Therapeutic Potential and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the
Neuroprotective Effects of Sativex® - A Cannabis-derived Spray
Authors: Motamedy Sina , Soltani Bahareh , Kameshki Halimeh , Alipour Kermani Asmae , Saboori Amleshi Reza , Nazeri Masoud , Shabani Mohammad
Published: February 2024

Sativex is a cannabis-based medicine that comes in the form of an oromucosal spray. It
contains equal amounts of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, two compounds derived from
cannabis plants. Sativex has been shown to have positive effects on symptoms of amyotrophic lateral
sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), and sleep disorders. It also has analgesic, antiinflammatory,
antitumoral, and neuroprotective properties, which make it a potential treatment option
for other neurological disorders. The article reviews the results of recent preclinical and clinical
studies that support the therapeutic potential of Sativex and the molecular mechanisms behind its
neuroprotective benefits in various neurological disorders. The article also discusses the possible
advantages and disadvantages of using Sativex as a neurotherapeutic agent, such as its safety, efficacy,
availability, and legal status.
Computational Insights on Migraine and Anxiety in Association with BDNF
Authors: Sundaravel Sakthi Sasikala , Kuriakose Beena Briget , Mushfiq Sakeena , Muthusamy Karthikeyan
Published: February 2024

Background:

Migraine is an unusual piercing headache on one side of the head. It is due
to the dysregulation of epigenetic factors associated with the brain. Migraine affects about one percent
of the general population. Despite the recent implementation of worldwide diagnostic criteria
for migraine, this disorder remains relatively unknown and is frequently underdiagnosed. Migrainous
conditions are also associated with anxiety and stress. This pathologic condition affects the daily life
and productivity of the patients.

Objective:

Hence, there is a need to develop proper treatment and management strategies to cope
with migraine and associated anxiety. Through in silico approaches, this work elucidates to identify
the effective lead compounds for migraine and anxiety.

Methods:

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was identified as a possible target for treating
migraine and anxiety using computational analysis. Virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulation
were used to find potential agonists with high affinities for BDNF.

Results:

Based on the results of computational analysis (glide XP score, number of interactions,
glide energy, and pharmacokinetic factors), four top hit molecules (Asinex_35922, Enamine_44630,
Maybridge_1999, and SMMDB_17457) were identified and taken for further analysis. The hydrogen
bond interactions between the agonists and the BDNF protein were verified by dynamics analysis

Conclusion:

Computational studies support that BDNF agonist molecules could be effective regulating
molecules for migraine and anxiety. For further evidence of the effectiveness of lead compounds
in treating migraine and related anxiety, more experimental studies are necessary.