Browse Articles
Discover research articles across all indexed journals
The three-dimensional impulse-response model: Modeling the training process in accordance with energy system-specific adaptation
Athletic training is characterized by physiological systems responding to repeated exercise-induced stress, resulting in gradual alterations in the functional properties of these systems. The adaptive response leading to improved performance follows a remarkably predictable pattern that may be described by a systems model provided that training load can be accurately quantified and that the constants defining the training-performance relationship are known. While various impulse-response models have been proposed, they are inherently limited in reducing training stress (the impulse) into a single metric, assuming that the adaptive responses are independent of the type of training performed. This is despite ample evidence of markedly diverse acute and chronic responses to exercise of different intensities and durations. Herein, we propose an alternative, three-dimensional impulse-response model that uses three training load metrics as inputs and three performance metrics as outputs. These metrics, represented by a three-parameter critical power model, reflect the stress imposed on each of the three energy systems: the alactic (phosphocreatine/immediate) system; the lactic (glycolytic) system; and the aerobic (oxidative) system. The purpose of this article is to outline the scientific rationale and the practical implementation of the three-dimensional impulse-response model.
Multi-level attention DeepLab V3+ with EfficientNetB0 for GI tract organ segmentation in MRI scans
Dynamic service analytics capabilities and service firm performance: Exploring the mediating roles of adaptive and customer-linking capabilities
Although service firms use dynamic service analytics capabilities (DSAC) to respond to dynamic customer demands, how these capabilities translate into performance remains unclear. Based on a sample of 338, this study explores the effects of DSAC on firm performance and the chain mediating roles of adaptive and customer-linking capability. The results reveal that DSAC enhance performance; adaptive capability partially mediate between DSAC and firm performance; adaptive capability partially mediate between DSAC and customer-linking capability; and customer-linking capability partially mediate between adaptive capability and firm performance. Adaptive and customer-linking capabilities form a continuous mediating path through which DSAC enhance service firm performance. The findings not only enrich the existing research on the relationship between DSAC and firm performance, but also provide an actionable path for service firms to enhance the effectiveness of DSAC, helping practitioners to be more flexible in responding to market changes.
Correction: Derivation of explicit mathematical equations for gypsum solubility in aqueous electrolyte solutions using GP, GEP, and GMDH techniques
Diversity of root system architecture and root-shoot biomass allocation in industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.)
Roots are major contributors to nutrient acquisition, water absorption, and plant anchoring and stability. However, little is known about the root system of industrial hemp ( Cannabis sativa L.), an increasingly important crop worth $16 billion annually. Hemp is commonly cultivated for grain as an oilseed, stalk biomass for fiber and industrial materials, but has also had growing interest for its carbon sequestration potential due to its reported deep rooting profile. The objectives of this research were to (1) phenotype a panel of 46 industrially-relevant hemp genotypes, (2) quantify the phenotypic differences of shoot and root traits through 2D image analysis, (3) and to investigate genotype grouping strategies and gene targets that could be useful for crop improvement. To phenotype the root system architecture of multiple hemp genotypes representative of production hemp, a large format raised-bed was developed in a greenhouse in which hemp was planted in rows. Root and shoot traits varied across genotypes, with a difference of 175% in total root length between the largest and smallest genotype, and heritability values ranging from 0.51 to 0.88 for key root traits. A strong positive correlation was found between root and shoot biomass (R = 0.93) suggests coordinated resource allocation strategies across genotypes. Of the 46 genotypes studied, two genotypes consistently showed the greatest differences across most of the traits analyzed in the panel. A root-to-shoot quadrant framework was applied to classify hemp ideotypes based on biomass allocation and architectural traits. In addition, comparative genomic analysis identified 74 candidate root architecture genes in hemp that are orthologous to known regulators in maize, rice, and Arabidopsis. These findings highlight substantial phenotypic diversity in hemp root systems and provide a foundation for developing genotype grouping strategies and selecting breeding targets for mapping populations.
Automated and robust nonrigid registration of serial section microscopic images using PiCNoR
Temporal changes in soil carbon and nitrogen in response to grazing management and vegetation cover in south-eastern Australia
Maintaining appropriate levels of carbon and nitrogen in soils is critical to the maintenance of productivity in agricultural systems. However, results vary from studies on the influence of land management, such as livestock grazing, on soil carbon and soil nitrogen. A large-scale study was implemented to quantify relationships between soil carbon, nitrogen, carbon:nitrogen ratio (C:N ratio), grazing regimes, and vegetation cover at sites on farms in south-eastern Australia, sampled in 2011 and 2022. Three grazing regimes were examined: total livestock exclusion, rotational grazing (limited duration grazing up to 45 days annually), and (continuous) set stocking rate grazing. Statistically modelled mean values for soil carbon (2011: 3%, 2022: 3.73%), nitrogen (2011: 0.21%, 2022: 0.34%), and C:N ratio (2011: 13.9, 2022: 14.3) were greater in 2022 than 2011. Soil carbon and nitrogen were greater in 2022 than 2011 in continuous grazing sites, with less pronounced time period differences in grazing exclusion and rotational sites. The C:N ratio was significantly greater in 2022 than 2011 in grazing exclusion sites (2011: 13.73, 2022: 14.58) and rotational grazing sites (2011: 13.87, 2022: 14.49), but less in 2022 (13.59) relative to 2011 in continuous grazing sites (14.31). There were inconsistent (sometimes positive, sometimes negative) empirical relationships between grazing regimes and vegetation measures as well as relationships between vegetation measures and soil carbon, soil nitrogen, and C:N ratio. Structural equation modelling (SEM) revealed limited evidence for soil carbon changes in response to vegetation attributes impacted by grazing regimes. Lower values of soil nitrogen and higher values for the C:N ratio at grazing exclusion sites were mediated by an increase in sapling abundance. SEM also identified an influence of rainfall on vegetation attributes, some of which were associated with soil properties.
Mathematical modelling of ion diffusion and state of charge prediction in sodium ion batteries with time series analysis
Comparison of virtual reality development centers and 270-degree evaluations in the context of mid-level managers’ competencies
Virtual Reality Development Centres (VRDCs) represent a recent extension of Assessment Center (AC) methodology, yet empirical evidence on their validity and their relationship to established evaluation systems remains limited. This study addresses this gap by examining how VRDC assessments—grounded in immersive, real-time behavioral observation—converge with traditional 270-degree evaluations and self-assessments across five managerial competencies. Using a sample of 64 mid-level managers who completed 16 VRDC sessions and parallel 270-degree evaluations, we tested three hypotheses concerning convergent validity and unique diagnostic value. VRDC demonstrated strong inter-rater reliability (rwg = .82–.95; ICC(2) =.76–.92) and showed significant alignment with 270-degree ratings for managing people and tasks, goal orientation, and change management, but not for decision-making or cooperation. Self-assessments correlated with VRDC only for cooperation, and negatively for managing people and tasks, revealing consistent self-perception biases. Across all competencies, VRDC provided diagnostic insights not captured by self-report, supporting its added theoretical value. The findings contribute to theory by clarifying the distinct construct domains captured by immersive behavioral simulations versus retrospective, perception-based evaluations. We argue that VRDC should be conceptualized not merely as a technological enhancement, but as a methodological bridge that integrates AC logic with multi-source frameworks. Practically, VRDC offers organizations a reliable and context-sensitive tool for assessing crisis-relevant competencies, complementing—but not replacing—traditional evaluation methods. The study advances the theoretical understanding of VR-based assessment and informs the development of multimethod competency assessment systems.
Predictive hybrid scan-to-BIM method improves heritage building documentation completeness and accuracy
Abstract Incomplete survey data often undermines the reliability of Building Information Models (BIM), particularly for structures with restricted access and complex geometries. This study demonstrates a hybrid Scan-to-BIM workflow that integrates terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photogrammetry, supported by a predictive feasibility concept, to improve documentation accuracy and completeness. A two-phase strategy was validated on a chapel case study. Phase 1, combining TLS and ground-based photogrammetry, achieved only 54% coverage due to severe occlusions and limited scanner placement. These results led to the formulation of a Predictive Scan Feasibility Estimation Model (PSFEM), designed to generalize site-specific parameters such as scanner range, clearance angle, and building height into a decision-support tool for future surveys. Guided by the recognition of Phase 1 limitations, Phase 2 incorporated UAV photogrammetry and supplemental TLS, increasing coverage to 96%. Comparative analyses confirmed consistency in accuracy and improved geometric completeness. While the PSFEM was developed retrospectively based on the limitations identified in Phase 1, its analytical validation demonstrates the potential value of predictive planning for reducing redundant site visits and enhancing BIM reliability. The proposed framework provides a transferable basis for applying predictive hybrid workflows in both heritage and complex building documentation. This workflow offers a practical and scalable method for Scan-to-BIM documentation, applicable to heritage as well as other complex buildings, enabling high accuracy and completeness while effectively managing time and resources.
C-reactive protein-triglyceride-glucose index versus triglyceride-glucose index in predicting cardiovascular metabolic multimorbidity risk: A cohort study
Background Cardiovascular Metabolic Multimorbidity (CMM), a leading global cause of mortality, lacks evidence on the predictive utility of the novel C-reactive protein-triglyceride-glucose index (CTI), which integrates insulin resistance and inflammation. This study compared CTI with the established Triglyceride-Glucose (TyG) index in predicting CMM risk. Methods A cohort of 8,487 adults aged ≥45 from the CHARLS database (2011–2020) was analyzed. Over nine years, CMM events were tracked. Cox regression, restricted cubic spline (RCS), and ROC curve analyses assessed associations between TyG, CTI, and CMM risk. Subgroup analyses evaluated population-specific variations. Results Among participants, 1,030 (12.14%) developed CMM. Unadjusted Cox models showed TyG (HR = 1.89, 95%CI 1.73–2.07, P < 0.001) and CTI (HR = 1.83, 95%CI 1.70–1.97, P < 0.001) predicted CMM; adjusted models confirmed persistence. A dose–response association was observed for both CTI and TyG with CMM risk. In fully adjusted models, the overall dose–response trend remained similar. ROC analysis favored CTI (higher AUC). Subgroup analyses indicated TyG’s association varied by sex, smoking, and hypertension ( P < 0.05), while CTI’s association differed by age, sex, and hypertension ( P < 0.05). Conclusions Elevated CTI independently correlates with increased CMM risk, demonstrating superior predictive accuracy over TyG. Its linear association highlights potential clinical utility for early CMM risk stratification.
Ecological water replenishment effects on groundwater recovery in the largest shallow groundwater depression cone of the North China Plain
Reliability evaluation oriented dominant dynamic characterization of park-level integrated energy system
Reliability evaluation of park-level integrated energy systems (PIES) requires capturing the complex interactions among electricity, gas, thermal, and building subsystems, which exhibit typical multiscale dynamic behaviors. Although existing studies have partially considered the dynamic characteristics of PIES, the critical transient responses and the long-term impacts of heat supply interruptions on human health are overlooked. To address these gaps, this paper proposes a reliability evaluation method based on quasi-steady-state simulation. The dynamic behaviors of the electricity, gas, and heating systems, as well as buildings, are analyzed to develop simplified quasi-steady-state models for both energy demand under normal conditions and indoor temperature evolution under extreme scenarios. A new reliability index is then formulated by incorporating the thermal inertia of district heating networks and the temperature tolerance of occupants, forming a comprehensive framework for PIES reliability assessment. Case studies verify that the proposed method enhances the accuracy and interpretability of reliability evaluations, bridging the gap in user health considerations under extreme conditions. The results further reveal that building thermal dynamics play a dominant role in determining the overall reliability performance of PIES.
Study on the differential expression of disulfidptosis-related genes and their association with immune regulation in patients with diabetic retinopathy
Sex hormone profiles and associated factors among adult tuberculosis patients at Gondar town, northwest Ethiopia: A comparative cross-sectional study
Background Tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is the second leading cause of death from infectious diseases worldwide. Tuberculosis is associated with alterations in sex hormone levels, particularly testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone. However, previous studies have reported conflicting results, with some showing increased or decreased levels in tuberculosis positive patients, while others found no significant differences. This study aims to assess and compare sex hormone profiles among adult tuberculosis-positive patients and tuberculosis-negative individuals and to identify associated factors. Method A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from June 15 to August 20, 2024, among 300 eligible adult tuberculosis-positive patients and age-matched tuberculosis-negative individuals in five selected health institutions in Gondar town. Participants were recruited using a simple random sampling technique, and sociodemographic, clinical, anthropometric, and behavioral data were collected through a structured questionnaire. Five milliliters of venous blood were used to determine hormone levels using the Beckman Coulter DXI 800 chemistry hormonal analyzer. Hypogonadism was defined by sex-specific hormones and categorized as primary, secondary, and subclinical. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis H test, and bivariable and multivariable statistical models were used. A p-value < 0.05 with a 95% CI was considered statistically significant. Result Male tuberculosis-positive patients showed significantly higher estradiol, luteinizing hormone, and FSH (p < 0.001), but lower testosterone (p < 0.001). Newly diagnosed tuberculosis-positive patients had significantly lower progesterone levels (p < 0.005). Female tuberculosis-positive patients showed significantly lower testosterone and progesterone but higher follicle-stimulating hormone levels compared to tuberculosis-negative individuals (P < 0.001). Estradiol and luteinizing hormone levels did not differ significantly in female tuberculosis-positive patients. However, newly diagnosed tuberculosis-positive patients had significantly higher median estradiol levels (p < 0.001). The overall prevalence of hypogonadism was 30.3% (95% CI (25.2–35.9%)), sex [AOR = 11.36, 95% CI (3.6, 36.17)] ( p < 0.001), dietary diversity (participants with lower diversity, including those with no dietary diversity [AOR = 8.98, 95% CI (2.37, 33.99)] ( p = 0.001), those with sometimes [AOR = 9.2, 95% CI (2.77, 30.62)] ( p < 0.001) and a usual dietary diversity [AOR = 3.24, (1.04, 10.06) ( p = 0.042), and cortisol [AOR = 4.01, 95% CI (1.7, 9.5)] ( p = 0.002) levels were significant determinants of hypogonadism in tuberculosis patients. Conclusion Male tuberculosis-positive patients showed significantly higher mean estradiol, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone but lower testosterone levels, while female tuberculosis-positive patients had significantly lower testosterone and progesterone and higher follicle-stimulating hormone levels. There was a higher prevalence of hypogonadism, particularly in males. Early diagnosis of these hormonal changes is crucial in tuberculosis-positive patients to prevent complications such as impaired gonadal function related to hormonal disturbances.
Reliable determination of the Hoek brown Mi parameter in brittle rocks using the maximum secant modulus criterion in multistage triaxial test
Diagnostic accuracy of endoscopic findings for cytomegalovirus reactivation in hospitalized patients with ulcerative colitis
Background Although cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation is implicated in ulcerative colitis (UC) exacerbation, the efficacy of antiviral treatment in hospitalized patients with UC with suspected CMV infection has not been thoroughly investigated. We aimed to investigate the diagnostic accuracies of typical endoscopic findings for CMV reactivation in hospitalized UC patients. Methods A total of 143 hospitalized cases due to the exacerbation of UC were retrospectively collected. Sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of endoscopic findings (punched-out ulcer, round ulcer, girdle ulcer, longitudinal ulcer, and ulcer with wide mucosal defect)for prediction of CMV colitis (histological CMV positivity) and CMV viremia (antigenemia, serum DNA) was assessed. Endoscopic characteristics were compared between patients who initially received anti-viral treatment and who did not receive. Results The diagnostic performance of endoscopic findings for histologically confirmed CMV infection varied by lesion type. Punched-out ulcers demonstrated a sensitivity of 66.7%, specificity of 58.3%, and overall diagnostic accuracy of 59.1%. Longitudinal ulcers showed a sensitivity of 58.3%, specificity of 40.0%, and diagnostic accuracy of 41.7%. In contrast, wide mucosal defects exhibited lower sensitivity (16.6%) but higher specificity (75.0%), with an overall diagnostic accuracy of 69.7%. The same tendencies were found as diagnostic accuracies of endoscopic findings of punched-out ulcers, longitudinal ulcers, and wide mucosal defects for CMV antigenemia positivity was 55.6%, 40.0%, 60.4%, respectively. The specificity of girdle ulcers for positivity of serum DNA test was relatively high (84.8%) while sensitivity was 9.1%. In total, the diagnostic accuracies of endoscopic findings with punched-out, round, girdle, and longitudinal ulcers, and those with wide mucosal defects were 46.9%, 42.9%, 33.7%, 51.0%, and 35.7% for positivity of serum DNA test, respectively. Punched-out ulceration (57% vs.13%; p < 0.001), longitudinal ulceration (70%vs.34%; p < 0.001), and ulceration with wide mucosal defects (31%vs.9%; p < 0.001) were higher with ganciclovir treatment than without. Conclusion Endoscopic findings cannot predict CMV antigenemia or CMV colitis. Therefore, antiviral treatment should not be administered without evidence of CMV reactivation using only endoscopic findings.
Synergistic combinatorial anticancer potential of Tamoxifen with Naringin and Diosmetin in MCF-7 breast cancer cells and their liposomal delivery
Converting the “union curious”? Rights-based, pro-worker arguments and Republican support for expanding collective bargaining: The case of the Illinois Workers’ Rights Amendment
In 2022 Illinois voters were faced with a ballot measure asking them whether they supported adding a Workers’ Rights Amendment (WRA) to the state constitution. Despite countervailing forces that might have made passage difficult, the amendment passed. We explore whether support for collective bargaining rights and union protections followed a predictably partisan pattern in Illinois, or whether support for the amendment was shaped by arguments, endorsements, or other voter demographics. Fielding a survey experiment with a representative sample of 1,000 Illinois voters, we find that Democrats were more likely to support the WRA in general, but that Republicans were more likely to support it following exposure to rights-based arguments emphasizing better pay, benefits, and conditions for workers. We also find that Democrats were more likely to support it following exposure to public sector union endorsements, but that private sector endorsements did not sway Republicans. More broadly, these findings suggest future opportunities to influence potentially skeptical audiences when it comes to ballot measures related to the labor movement.