bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive Analysis of Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing Characterizes Age-Related Exercise Performance in Growing Children and Adolescents
Authors: Kourpas Katerina , Tsuda Takeshi 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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.