bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Illness uncertainty, resilience, and perceived social support among patients with moyamoya disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Wenling , Pan Zhongjie , Zhu Yingming , Lv Dongsen , Zhang Haobo , Li Shen , Liu Chengbo , Xiong Xiaoyun , Li Qiong , Yao Guanglin , Yang Shuhua , Song Ruipeng , Yan Sumei , Wang Dongyang , Li Meng , Liu Hanjiao
Published: July 2024

Objective

The present study aims to investigate the levels of illness uncertainty in patients with moyamoya disease and to determine the association of socio-demographic characteristics, perceived social support and resilience with illness uncertainty in patients with moyamoya disease.

Method

A cross-sectional survey using convenience sampling was conducted in two hospitals in China from August to December 2023. A socio-demographic characteristics questionnaire, the Chinese versions of Mishel’s Unsurety in Disease Scale (MUIS), the Chinese version of Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), and the Chinese version of Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) were used to perform this research. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 24.0 statistical software. The t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), pearson correlation analysis and hierarchical regression analysis were used to identify associated factors.

Result

A total of 263 patients with moyamoya disease were recruited in this survey. The score of illness uncertainty was at a moderate level of (100.03 ± 18.59). The present study identified a negative correlation between illness uncertainty with resilience perceived social support. Hierarchical regression analysis showed that gender, occupation, education level, resilience and perceived social support were the related factors of illness uncertainty.

Conclusion

Patients with moyamoya disease experienced moderate disease uncertainty on average, which was related to gender, occupation, education level, resilience and perceived social support. Future research is needed to better explore the complex relationships between illness uncertainty, resilience, and perceived social support with different types of moyamoya disease using longitudinal research.
Relationship between adolescent internet addiction and adolescent non-suicidal self-injury: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Liu Nan , Li Huaxiang , Wang Lin , Yin Jiemei , Peng Aiqin
Published: July 2024

Background

Both Internet addiction (IA) and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) are major public health concerns among adolescents, association between internet addiction and non-suicidal self-injury have been observed among adolescents. However, it is unclear how, and under what conditions, internet addiction relates to non-suicidal self-injury. According to our hypothesis, there is a positive relationship between IA and NSSI among Chinese adolescents, but this relationship is affected by the mediating role of loneliness and the moderating role of cognitive reappraisal.

Method

A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 1046 Chinese adolescents from 3 middle schools. Measurements: Adolescent Self-Harm Scale; Young’s Internet Addiction Test (IAT); University of California at Los Angels (UCLA) Loneliness Scale; Emotional Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), They were asked to complete self-report questionnaires.

Results

In our sample, the detection rate of NSSI was 12.3%. IA was positively associated with NSSI, and loneliness partially mediated the association between them. In addition, cognitive reappraisal moderated the first half path of the mediation model. Specifically, the higher the level of cognitive reappraisal, the weaker the positive effect of IA on NSSI through loneliness.

Conclusion

Interventions targeted to reduce loneliness and increase cognitive reappraisal strategies may reduce the risk of NSSI in adolescents with Internet addiction.
Psychosocial and mental health challenges facing perinatally HIV-infected adolescents along the Kenyan coast: a qualitative inquiry using the socioecological model
Authors: Wanjala Stanley W. , Nyongesa Moses K. , Luchters Stanley , Abubakar Amina
Published: July 2024

Background

The advent of antiretroviral therapy has led perinatally HIV-infected (PHI) adolescents to live long, fulfilling lives through lifelong treatment. However, there is limited knowledge about the lived experiences and psychosocial and mental health challenges faced by PHI adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa, where 80% of PHI adolescents reside. To address this gap, we adapted the socioecological model to investigate the challenges and lived experiences of PHI adolescents in rural coastal Kenya.

Methods

Between October and November 2018, a sample of 40 participants (20 PHI adolescents and their 20 primary caregivers) participated in a qualitative study using an H-assessment data collection approach for adolescents and focus group discussions with caregivers. Data analysis was conducted using a framework approach on NVIVO 11 software.

Results

PHI adolescents from this setting experience many challenges across various levels of the ecosystem. At the individual level, challenges include living in denial, HIV status disclosure, antiretroviral adherence, internalized stigma, and mental health issues. Within the family, challenges such as parental loss, insufficient care from parents, and unacceptance lead to threats of harm. In the broader community, key challenges such as gossip, unsupportive community members, long waiting times at the health facility, isolation, rejection, and an unresponsive school system fail to address the needs of PHI adolescents. Finally, HIV-related stigma and discrimination manifested across different levels of the socioecological framework. To cope with these challenges, PHI adolescents often rely on privacy and social support from their families.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the need to develop and implement multi-level adolescent-friendly interventions to address PHI adolescent challenges and guide future investment in adolescent’s health. Furthermore, there is a need to address internalized and interpersonal stigmas through individual-level interventions that promote resilience and the active involvement of adolescents, their caregivers, peers, and teachers who are their social support system.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hepatitis C virus screening in provincial prisons in Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Authors: Kronfli Nadine , Leone Frederic , Dussault Camille , Miliani Giovanni , Gallant Elvira , Potter Molly , Cox Joseph
Published: July 2024

Background

Little is known about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hepatitis C (HCV) screening efforts in carceral settings. We explored the impact of the pandemic on HCV screening in two of Quebec’s largest provincial prisons.

Methods

Retrospective data of HCV-related laboratory tests between July 2018 and February 2022 at l’Établissement de détention de Montréal (EDM) and l’Établissement de détention de Rivière-des-Prairies (EDRDP) were obtained. To examine the association between the pandemic and the number of HCV-antibody (HCV-Ab) tests, a three-level time period variable was created: pre-outbreak, outbreak, and post-outbreak. Negative binomial regression (with monthly admissions as an offset) was used to assess the change in HCV-Ab tests across time periods and by prisons. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated.

Results

A total of 1,790 HCV-Ab tests were performed; 56 (3%) were positive. Among these, 44 (79%) HCV RNA tests were performed; 23 (52%) were positive. There was a significant decrease in HCV-Ab screening at EDM during the outbreak (aOR 0.29; 95% CI 0.17–0.48) and post-outbreak (aOR 0.49; 95% CI 0.35–0.69) periods, compared to the pre-outbreak period. There was no significant change in HCV-Ab screening at EDRDP during the outbreak (aOR 0.98; 95% CI 0.49–2.11) but a significant increase in HCV-Ab screening post-outbreak (aOR 1.66; 95% CI 1.04–2.72).

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected HCV screening at EDM but had minimal impact at EDRDP. To eliminate HCV from carceral settings, minimizing screening interruptions during future outbreaks and combined HCV/SARS-CoV-2 screening should be prioritized.
The association between food preferences, eating behavior, and body weight among female university students in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Al Sabbah Haleama , Ajab Abir , Ismail Leila Cheikh , Al Dhaheri Ayesha , Alblooshi Sharifa , Atari Siham , Polo Stephanny Vicuna , Amro Malak , Qasrawi Radwan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This cross-sectional study investigated the associations between lifestyle, eating habits, food preferences, consumption patterns, and obesity among female university students in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Methods

Approximately 4,728 participants, including both Emirati and Non-Emirati students (International Students). Data collection involved face-to-face interviews and anthropometric measurements, showing an interrelated relationship between food preferences and obesity among female university students.

Results

While sociodemographic factors and lifestyle habits contribute to obesity, this study uniquely focuses on the role of food preferences and food consumption patterns in body weight status. The findings reveal a significant correlation between the intake of high-sugar beverages–such as milk, juices, soft drinks, and energy drinks–and an increased risk of overweight and obesity among both Emirati and Non-Emirati populations. Notably, milk consumption was particularly associated with obesity in non-Emirati populations (F = 88.1, p < 0.001) and with overweight status in Non-Emiratis (F = 7.73, p < 0.05). The consumption of juices and soft drinks was linked to obesity. Additionally, a significant preference for fruits and vegetables among overweight and obese students was observed, indicating a trend toward healthier food choices. However, there was also a clear preference for high-calorie, low-nutrient foods such as processed meats, sweets, and salty snacks. Fast food items like burgers, fried chicken, fries, pizza, shawarma, chips, and noodles were significantly correlated with increased body weight status, especially shawarma, which showed a notably high correlation with both obesity and overweight statuses (F-values of 38.3 and 91.11, respectively).

Conclusion

The study indicated that food choices shape weight-related outcomes is important for designing effective strategies to promote healthier dietary patterns.
Predictors of irritability in pediatric autistic populations: a scoping review
Authors: Alatrash Sara , Paul Tithi , Carbone Julia , Penner Melanie , Roshan Fekr Atena , Kushki Azadeh
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Autism is characterized by social communication differences and repetitive behaviors, affecting 1%–2% of children. Irritability is a disabling condition affecting 19%–80% of autistic children. While extensive research has focused on interventions to reduce irritability symptoms, the underlying correlates remain poorly understood. To address this, we conducted a scoping review of the literature examining factors contributing to irritability in pediatric autistic populations.

Methods

A literature search of Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science was conducted in addition to manually retrieved papers from Google Scholar. Studies underwent title and abstract screening by one reviewer and full-text screening by two reviewers; disagreements were resolved through deliberation. The remaining studies underwent data extraction. The review was conducted using the PRISMA-ScR checklist.

Results

The search yielded 48 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Correlates of irritability were categorized into eight themes: demographics/environmental, autism features, mental health, language, cognition, and function, neurobiological, physical health, physiological, and multidimensional factors. Findings revealed mixed associations with demographic factors, consistent positive associations with sensory differences and mental health symptoms, and varying associations with cognitive abilities and physical health factors. Neurobiological and physiological correlates were less explored.

Conclusion

This review revealed a significant gap in understanding sociodemographic, phenotypic, and neurobiological and physiological correlates of irritability in autism. There was also a significant gap in understanding the multi-dimensional irritability correlates. Positive associations between irritability and sensory differences and mental health symptoms suggest potential avenues for investigation of non-medication interventions.
Collective predictive coding hypothesis: symbol emergence as decentralized Bayesian inference
Authors: Taniguchi Tadahiro
Published: July 2024

Understanding the emergence of symbol systems, especially language, requires the construction of a computational model that reproduces both the developmental learning process in everyday life and the evolutionary dynamics of symbol emergence throughout history. This study introduces the collective predictive coding (CPC) hypothesis, which emphasizes and models the interdependence between forming internal representations through physical interactions with the environment and sharing and utilizing meanings through social semiotic interactions within a symbol emergence system. The total system dynamics is theorized from the perspective of predictive coding. The hypothesis draws inspiration from computational studies grounded in probabilistic generative models and language games, including the Metropolis–Hastings naming game. Thus, playing such games among agents in a distributed manner can be interpreted as a decentralized Bayesian inference of representations shared by a multi-agent system. Moreover, this study explores the potential link between the CPC hypothesis and the free-energy principle, positing that symbol emergence adheres to the society-wide free-energy principle. Furthermore, this paper provides a new explanation for why large language models appear to possess knowledge about the world based on experience, even though they have neither sensory organs nor bodies. This paper reviews past approaches to symbol emergence systems, offers a comprehensive survey of related prior studies, and presents a discussion on CPC-based generalizations. Future challenges and potential cross-disciplinary research avenues are highlighted.
Can Democrats and Republicans like each other? Depends on how you define “American”
Authors: Toprakkiran Selin , Gordils Jonathan , Jamieson Jeremy P.
Published: July 2024

Democrats and Republicans increasingly demonstrate negative intergroup attitudes, posing a threat to bipartisan progress. Based on the Common Ingroup Identity Model, people from different political groups can simultaneously identify with a superordinate group, such as a national identity. This has the potential to ameliorate negative intergroup attitudes, though high levels of national identity are also associated with authoritarianism and intolerance. How can a common national identity improve relations between Democrats and Republicans? In this observational study (N = 1,272), Democrats and Republicans differed in how they defined what it means to be American, and higher American identity was related to more positive attitudes toward members of the other party. Most importantly, this relationship was moderated by participants' definition of what it means to be “American,” regardless of party or political orientation. Those who defined what it means to be American in more restrictive terms (i.e., U.S.-born, English-speaking, and Christian) reported less positive attitudes toward members of the other political party as their identification as an American became stronger. Taken together, our results suggest that strengthening national identity might be key to improving attitudes between Democrats and Republicans, as long as this identity is inclusive.
Resilience—The Ability to Bounce Back!
Authors: Ensz Jordan , Ermler Melanie , Rabbani Huda , Saunders Madison , Baker Stephanie , Mohiyeddini Changiz
Published: July 2024

Resilience means “bouncing back” after a setback, like when you fall off your bike but get back on and try again, or when you do not do well on a test but keep studying and improve next time. This means that when people go through tough situations, resilience helps them to adapt successfully and go back to normal quicker. For kids, resilience can come in handy when you are faced with difficult problems or new environments. Our resilience is shaped by the things we do and the people in our lives. It changes and grows as we experience new things throughout our lives. We can also increase our resilience by building supportive relationships and modeling our behavior after good role models. Resilience in childhood has a big impact on children’s mental, physical, and emotional health and continues to influence them as they grow older. By building resilience, we can improve our grades in school and enjoy life more, while also feeling less worried and sad.
Association between respiratory disease pathogens in calves near feedlot arrival with treatment for bovine respiratory disease and subsequent antimicrobial resistance status
Authors: Abi Younes Jennifer N. , Campbell John R. , Gow Sheryl P. , Woolums Amelia R. , Waldner Cheryl L.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study assessed the risk of first treatment for bovine respiratory disease (BRD) given detection of nasopharyngeal bacteria (Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, and Histophilus somni) and corresponding likelihood of antimicrobial susceptibility (C/S) at two time points during the early feeding period. Relationships between C/S results and later treatment for BRD were evaluated at both the calf-level and pen-level. The association between calf-level and pen-level C/S findings during the early feeding period and subsequent C/S results at BRD treatment were also reported.

Methods

Auction-sourced, recently-weaned beef calves (n = 1,599 steers) were placed in adjacent feedlot pens (8 × 100 calves) in two subsequent years. Deep nasopharyngeal (DNP) swabs were collected from all calves at time of arrival processing (1DOF) and before metaphylaxis administration with either tulathromycin or oxytetracycline, 12 days later (13DOF), and at the time of first treatment for BRD. All samples were tested for C/S.

Results

Several pen-level and individual calf-level C/S measures of interest were associated with future treatment for BRD and C/S at the time of treatment. The median DOF for first BRD treatment was 24 days following tulathromycin metaphylaxis and 11 days following oxytetracycline. Overall, sampling at 13DOF resulted in the best fit for more models of subsequent treatment for BRD and C/S results at BRD treatment than for sampling at arrival. In individual calves, recovery of M. haemolytica, P. multocida, or H. somni at 13DOF was associated with subsequent treatment for BRD within 45DOF. Pen-level prevalence of Pasteurellacea bacteria with tetracycline or macrolide resistance at arrival and 13DOF were associated with detection of bacteria with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) at BRD treatment, as were individual calf results at 13DOF.

Discussion

These findings suggest that the bacteria and AMR outcomes recovered from cattle near two weeks on feed can inform the prediction of future BRD risk and concurrent antimicrobial susceptibility results at time of first BRD treatment. Notably, the associations between pen-level C/S results from previous testing and corresponding findings in calves with BRD from the same pen suggested potential testing strategies to inform antimicrobial use protocols for feedlot cattle.
Zoonosis screening in Spanish immunocompromised children and their pets
Authors: Garcia-Sanchez Paula , Romero-Trancón David , Falces-Romero Iker , Navarro Carrera Paula , Ruiz-Carrascoso Guillermo , Carmena David , Casares Jiménez María , Rivero-Juárez Antonio , Moya Laura , Rodón Jaume , Esperón Fernando , Pérez-Hernando Belén , Sánchez-León Rocío , Hurtado-Gallego Jara , Alcolea Sonia , Sainz Talía , Calvo Cristina , Méndez-Echevarría Ana
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Although pets provide several social–emotional benefits for children, the risk of zoonosis must be considered among immunocompromised individuals.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted in a tertiary hospital including immunocompromised patients younger than 20 years owning dogs and/or cats. Colonization and/or infection was evaluated by stool studies, bacterial swabs, blood polymerase chain reaction and serological studies in both patients and their pets, to evaluate potential zoonotic transmission occurrence.

Results

We included 74 patients and their 92 pets (63 dogs, 29 cats). Up to 44.6% of the patients and 31.5% of the pets had at least 1 positive result. Up to 18.4% of pets’ fecal samples were positive (bacteria, parasites or hepatitis E virus). No helminths were observed despite the high frequency of incorrect intestinal deworming practices. Among children, gastrointestinal microorganisms were found in 37.3% (primarily Clostridium difficile). Colonization by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius was common among pets (8.0%) but not among children (0.0%). No shared colonization between owners and pets was observed, except in one case (Blastocystis in both patient and pet feces). Among patients, serologies were positive for Strongyloides stercoralis (14.8%), Toxocara canis (3.2%), Bartonella henselae (19.1%) and hepatitis E (5.6%). Serology was positive for Rickettsia spp. (22.6%) and Babesia spp. (6.5%) in dogs and for Leishmania spp. (14.3%) and Toxoplasma spp. (14.3%) in cats.

Conclusion

Exposure to zoonotic agents was detected in both patients and pets; however, shared colonization events were almost nonexistent. In our cohort, dogs and cats do not appear to entail high zoonosis transmission risk for immunocompromised patients.
Determination of the rat estrous cycle vased on EfficientNet
Authors: Pu Xiaodi , Liu Longyi , Zhou Yonglai , Xu Zihan
Published: July 2024

In the field of biomedical research, rats are widely used as experimental animals due to their short gestation period and strong reproductive ability. Accurate monitoring of the estrous cycle is crucial for the success of experiments. Traditional methods are time-consuming and rely on the subjective judgment of professionals, which limits the efficiency and accuracy of experiments. This study proposes an EfficientNet model to automate the recognition of the estrous cycle of female rats using deep learning techniques. The model optimizes performance through systematic scaling of the network depth, width, and image resolution. A large dataset of physiological data from female rats was used for training and validation. The improved EfficientNet model effectively recognized different stages of the estrous cycle. The model demonstrated high-precision feature capture and significantly improved recognition accuracy compared to conventional methods. The proposed technique enhances experimental efficiency and reduces human error in recognizing the estrous cycle. This study highlights the potential of deep learning to optimize data processing and achieve high-precision recognition in biomedical research. Future work should focus on further validation with larger datasets and integration into experimental workflows.
Potential Drivers for the Spatiotemporal Patterns of the Global Burden of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Attributable to Ambient Ozone, 1990–2019
Authors: Wang Ning , Cheng Jian , Xu Zhiwei , Wang Shuai , Wang Qiutong , Feng Xuefei , Hu Wenbiao , Wang Baohua
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To identify the long-term spatiotemporal trend of ozone-related chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) burden by sex and country and to explore potential drivers.

Methods

We retrieved data of ozone-related COPD death and disability adjusted life year (DALY) from the Global Burden of Disease 2019. We used a linear regression of natural logarithms of age-standardized rates (ASRs) with calendar year to examine the trends in ASRs and a panel regression to identify country-level factors associated with the trends.

Results

Global ozone-attributable COPD deaths increased from 117,114 to 208,342 among men and from 90,265 to 156,880 among women between 1990 and 2019. Although ASRs of ozone-related COPD death and DALY declined globally, they increased in low and low-middle Socio-demographic Index (SDI) regions, with faster rise in women. Elevated average maximum temperature was associated with higher ozone-attributable COPD burden, while more green space was associated with lower burden.

Conclusion

More efforts are needed in low and low-middle SDI regions, particularly for women, to diminish inter-country inequality in ozone-attributable COPD. Global warming may exacerbate the burden. Expanding green space may mitigate the burden.
Optical Inspection of Concrete Surface
Authors: Gobesz Ferdinánd-Zsongor , Máthé Aliz Éva
Published: July 2024

In order to obtain accurate and reliable data on the properties of concrete surfaces, professional testing methods and specialised equipment may be required. Optical inspection can be carried out as part of, or as preparation for, diagnostic testing. This paper describes a procedure that can be applied to microscopic inspection too, as it is based on data obtained from the use of a software package developed for biological digital image processing. As an example, the quantification of cavities on the side of a concrete cube specimen is described, step-by-step, but such a convenient procedure could also be used to evaluate other surface features.
Design of a Cavity Pressure Monitoring System for Plastic Injection Molding
Authors: Keresztes Kristóf , Gergely Attila Levente
Published: July 2024

This work aims to create an instrument that allows the measurement of cavity pressure during plastic injection molding. The designed device is intended to contribute to the equipment inventory of the Polymer Technology Laboratory at Sapientia EMTE, Faculty Târgu Mureș. The design criteria were the ease of mounting and use. The system was implemented with two load cells, two HX711 amplifiers, an ESP32-based microcontroller and a corresponding computer user interface. The user interface was developed using National Instruments LabVIEW program and finalized as a stand-alone application. During the design steps, attention was also paid to the practical applicability of the system.
Methodological Development to Improve the Accuracy of External Stereo-Photogrammetric Surveys of Buildings
Authors: Rák Olivér , Bakai Nándor , Altamimi Motasem
Published: July 2024

Although unmanned aircraft (UA) based surveys are becoming a more common solution, their accuracy is questionable. Regulation is a major issue in the use of UA, which is currently having a negative impact on the spread of the technology. Many rules need to be applied during the survey and there are hundreds of settings to use during post-processing. Testing and evaluation of several combinations is necessary for an optimized process definition. In the present research, studies have been carried out focusing on different solutions of survey methodologies. The case studies analyzed different survey, flight rules and their combinations. The study presents the advantages and disadvantages of using UA and makes recommendations for survey methodologies through the evaluations carried out. In addition, several future research directions are presented which could lead to the advancement of building surveys.
Decentralizált hővisszanyerő szellőztetőrendszer valós hatásfokának vizsgálata
Authors: Tolvaly-Roșca Ferenc , Fekete Albert-Zsombor , Forgó Zoltán
Published: July 2024

A dolgozat 4 darab decentralizált hővisszanyerő szellőztetőegység egy rendszerbe való kötésének és automatizálásának eredményeként elért, ki-be áramló levegő hőmérsékleteinek mérési módszerét, értékeit és a teljes rendszer termikus hatásfokának számított eredményeit mutatja be. A megépített rendszer négy darab egyhelyiséges hővisszanyerő berendezésből áll, melyek egy automatizált rendszerbe épülnek be. A beépített szenzorokkal valós időben mérhető a szellőztetett szobák átlaghőmérséklete vagy a szellőztetőegységeken átáramló levegő pillanatnyi hőmérséklete, relatív páratartalma, illetve a szobák szén-dioxid-szintje. Az egységek az eredeti egyéni vezérlőelemeket kiegészítő automatizálást kaptak, amely bármilyen számítástechnikai eszközről, grafikus felületről és wi-fi kapcsolaton keresztül, komplex vezérléstechnikai feladatokra képes. Az egységek légáramába áthelyezhető érzékelői alkalmasak az áramló levegő paramétereinek a pillanatnyi mérésére, ezáltal a teljes rendszer termikus hatásfokának a becslésére.
Granice pogranicza. Studium przypadku dawnej parafii usnarskiej na Grodzieńszczyźnie
Authors: Konczewska Katarzyna
Published: July 2024

This article presents a synthesis of the sociolinguistic situation of the Polish–Belarusian borderland, on the territory of the former parish of Usnar. Field studies were conducted systematically in the years 2015–2020 and irregularly in the years 2021–2023. The author employed an original method based on using museum fund. The paper focuses on the influence of the border (the state one, as well as other types of borders) on the sociolinguistic situation of the microarea. Particularly noteworthy is the persistent division into settlements of the petty nobility and villages, along with the corresponding language codes.
Keywords: border studies – language codes – methodology of sociolinguistic research – Grodno region.
An Integrated Route and Path Planning Strategy for Skid–Steer Mobile Robots in Assisted Harvesting Tasks with Terrain Traversability Constraints
Authors: Urvina Ricardo Paul , Guevara César Leonardo , Vásconez Juan Pablo , Prado Alvaro Javier
Published: July 2024

This article presents a combined route and path planning strategy to guide Skid–Steer Mobile Robots (SSMRs) in scheduled harvest tasks within expansive crop rows with complex terrain conditions. The proposed strategy integrates: (i) a global planning algorithm based on the Traveling Salesman Problem under the Capacitated Vehicle Routing approach and Optimization Routing (OR-tools from Google) to prioritize harvesting positions by minimum path length, unexplored harvest points, and vehicle payload capacity; and (ii) a local planning strategy using Informed Rapidly-exploring Random Tree (IRRT*) to coordinate scheduled harvesting points while avoiding low-traction terrain obstacles. The global approach generates an ordered queue of harvesting locations, maximizing the crop yield in a workspace map. In the second stage, the IRRT* planner avoids potential obstacles, including farm layout and slippery terrain. The path planning scheme incorporates a traversability model and a motion model of SSMRs to meet kinematic constraints. Experimental results in a generic fruit orchard demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed strategy. In particular, the IRRT* algorithm outperformed RRT and RRT* with 96.1% and 97.6% smoother paths, respectively. The IRRT* also showed improved navigation efficiency, avoiding obstacles and slippage zones, making it suitable for precision agriculture.
Synergistic Antimicrobial Effects of Phage vB_AbaSi_W9 and Antibiotics against Acinetobacter baumannii Infection
Authors: Choi Yoon-Jung , Kim Shukho , Shin Minsang , Kim Jungmin
Published: July 2024

Acinetobacter baumannii is a challenging multidrug-resistant pathogen in healthcare. Phage vB_AbaSi_W9 (GenBank: PP146379.1), identified in our previous study, shows lytic activity against 26 (89.66%) of 29 carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) strains with various sequence types (STs). It is a promising candidate for CRAB treatment; however, its lytic efficiency is insufficient for complete bacterial lysis. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the clinical utility of the phage vB_AbaSi_W9 by identifying antimicrobial agents that show synergistic effects when combined with it. The A. baumannii ATCC17978 strain was used as the host for the phage vB_AbaSi_W9. Adsorption and one-step growth assays of the phage vB_AbaSi_W9 were performed at MOIs of 0.001 and 0.01, respectively. Four clinical strains of CRAB belonging to different sequence types, KBN10P04948 (ST191), LIS2013230 (ST208), KBN10P05982 (ST369), and KBN10P05231 (ST451), were used to investigate phage–antibiotic synergy. Five antibiotics were tested at the following concentration: meropenem (0.25–512 µg/mL); colistin, tigecycline, and rifampicin (0.25–256 µg/mL); and ampicillin/sulbactam (0.25/0.125–512/256 µg/mL). The in vitro synergistic effect of the phage and rifampicin was verified through an in vivo mouse infection model. Phage vB_AbaSi_W9 demonstrated 90% adsorption to host cells in 1 min, a 20 min latent period, and a burst size of 114 PFU/cell. Experiments combining phage vB_AbaSi_W9 with antibiotics demonstrated a pronounced synergistic effect against clinical strains when used with tigecycline and rifampicin. In a mouse model infected with CRAB KBN10P04948 (ST191), the group treated with rifampicin (100 μg/mL) and phage vB_AbaSi_W9 (MOI 1) achieved a 100% survival rate—a significant improvement over the phage-only treatment (8.3% survival rate) or antibiotic-only treatment (25% survival rate) groups. The bacteriophage vB_AbaSi_W9 demonstrated excellent synergy against CRAB strains when combined with tigecycline and rifampicin, suggesting potential candidates for phage–antibiotic combination therapy in treating CRAB infections.
Botanical Origin and Biological Properties of Honey and Propolis from Cuautitlan, State of Mexico, Mexico
Authors: Alcivar-Saldaña Jose Juan , Rodriguez-Monroy Marco Aurelio , Carrillo-Miranda Liborio , Canales-Martinez Maria Margarita
Published: July 2024

Beekeeping is an activity that generates various products, mainly honey and propolis, with different biological activities that are studied extensively using various methodologies. The influence of various phenolic compounds, such as phenols and flavonoids, which are synthesized and concentrated differently in each product depending on the melliferous flora and sources of resources, on the manufacture of propolis or honey has been investigated. However, the analysis of these products has been performed separately and is outdated in time, and depending on the area and the flowering periods, different crops may be harvested. The analysis of the honey and propolis produced in Cuautitlan, State of Mexico, in the high plateau beekeeping zone, for a period of four years, both in the dry and rainy seasons, was proposed to determine the botanical origin of the honey and propolis. The primary pollen type in both honey and propolis was from Brassica rapa. Physicochemical tests were conducted, revealing higher concentrations of antimicrobial activity in the dry season than in the rainy season. Honey, propolis, and a vegetation extract showed activity against S. aureus, while only honey had an effect on E. coli in both seasons. For antifungal activity, only propolis collected in the rainy season had this activity. The biological properties of these products are closely related to the flora that varies both annually and between seasons, influencing the concentrations of phenolic compounds, as well as the biological activity of honey and propolis.
Syringaresinol Attenuates α-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone-Induced Reactive Oxygen Species Generation and Melanogenesis
Authors: Kim Kyuri , Yoon Jihyun , Lim Kyung-Min
Published: July 2024

Ginseng has been utilized for centuries in both the medicinal and cosmetic realms. Recent studies have actively investigated the biological activity of ginseng berry and its constituents. (+)-Syringaresinol [(+)-SYR], an active component of ginseng berry, has been demonstrated to have beneficial effects on the skin, but its potential impact on skin pigmentation has not been fully explored. Here, the antioxidant and anti-pigmentary activity of (+)-SYR were evaluated in B16F10 murine melanoma cells and in an artificial human pigmented skin model, Melanoderm™. A real-time PCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence staining, and histochemistry staining were conducted to confirm the effects of (+)-SYR on pigmentation. (+)-SYR reduced melanogenesis and dendrite elongation in α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-primed B16F10 cells with low cytotoxicity. (+)-SYR suppressed the expression of melanogenic genes, namely tyrosinase (TYR), tyrosinase-related protein 1 (TRP-1), and tyrosinase-related protein 2 (TRP-2). Notably, (+)-SYR attenuated α-MSH-induced cytosolic and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, which was attributable at least in part to the suppression of NADPH oxidase-4 (NOX 4) expression. Finally, the brightening activities of (+)-SYR were verified using Melanoderm™, underscoring the potential of ginseng berry and (+)-SYR as functional ingredients in skin-brightening cosmetics.
Oxidative Cysteine Post Translational Modifications Drive the Redox Code Underlying Neurodegeneration and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Percio Anna , Cicchinelli Michela , Masci Domiziana , Summo Mariagrazia , Urbani Andrea , Greco Viviana
Published: July 2024

Redox dysregulation, an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants, is crucial in the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative diseases. Within this context, the “redoxome” encompasses the network of redox molecules collaborating to maintain cellular redox balance and signaling. Among these, cysteine-sensitive proteins are fundamental for this homeostasis. Due to their reactive thiol groups, cysteine (Cys) residues are particularly susceptible to oxidative post-translational modifications (PTMs) induced by free radicals (reactive oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur species) which profoundly affect protein functions. Cys-PTMs, forming what is referred to as “cysteinet” in the redox proteome, are essential for redox signaling in both physiological and pathological conditions, including neurodegeneration. Such modifications significantly influence protein misfolding and aggregation, key hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and notably, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This review aims to explore the complex landscape of cysteine PTMs in the cellular redox environment, elucidating their impact on neurodegeneration at protein level. By investigating specific cysteine-sensitive proteins and the regulatory networks involved, particular emphasis is placed on the link between redox dysregulation and ALS, highlighting this pathology as a prime example of a neurodegenerative disease wherein such redox dysregulation is a distinct hallmark.
Providing Security for Flash Loan System Using Cryptocurrency Wallets Supported by XSalsa20 in a Blockchain Environment
Authors: Al-Zubaidie Mishall , Jebbar Wid Alaa
Published: July 2024

The days of long lines at banks and piles of paperwork are long gone. The lending landscape has been completely transformed by digital loans, which provide a quick, easy, and frequently paperless transactions. A payee can apply for a digital loan anytime, anywhere. The entire lending procedure is accessible and efficient, but the availability of data on the Internet provides many risks and threats, where there are certain difficulties in the world of digital lending and data security, and privacy are major concerns. It is important to address the possibility of predatory lending practices that target weaker payees, especially with flash loans, which are considered a critical type of digital loan, as they add additional pressure to banks in terms of security because they return to the same block of the blockchain, and the possibility of tampering with them is considered great. Therefore, we have developed a security protocol based on the principle of digital cryptocurrency wallets: these digital wallets are protected by our use of the Xsalsa20 algorithm. It has high specifications and is enhanced with the usage of the Crow search algorithm, which guarantees fast and efficient search results. After the analysis of the proposed system in the Tamarin Prover tool, we obtained proof of a lot of security properties like data authenticity, perfect forward secrecy, and many others, which constitute the matter that gives our system the power of security. Also, we obtained 0.6667 ms. as the rate of processing speed, 2990 ms. as the time required by the proposed system to repay loans after the conditions are met, and, finally, our proposed system has the power to present a flexible property by creating 29,700 loans every 3 s; by this, we obtained a system that is secure, authentic, fast, and flexible.
Strategic Insights into Integrated Photonics: Core Concepts, Practical Deployments, and Future Outlook
Authors: Butt Muhammad A. , Mateos Xavier
Published: July 2024

Integrated photonics is a cutting-edge field that merges optics and electronics on a single microchip, revolutionizing how we manipulate and transmit light. Imagine traditional bulky optical systems condensed onto a chip smaller than a fingernail, enabling faster communication, more efficient sensors, and advanced computing. At its core, integrated photonics relies on guiding light through waveguides etched onto semiconductor substrates, analogous to how wires conduct electricity in traditional electric circuits. These waveguides can route, modulate, and detect light signals with unprecedented precision and speed. This technology holds immense promise across various domains. Despite its immense potential, integrated photonics faces challenges, including manufacturing complexities and integration with existing electronic systems. However, ongoing research and advancements continue to push the boundaries, promising a future where light-based technologies seamlessly integrate into our everyday lives, powering a new era of innovation and connectivity.
Effect of the Inter-Ring Delay Time on Rock Fragmentation: Field Tests at the Underground Mine
Authors: Chen Hui , Liu Chengyu , Feng Yin , Yin Haojie
Published: July 2024

The effect of inter-ring delay time (IRDT) on rock fragmentation in the tunnel excavation blasting was studied at the Xinjiang Beizhan Iron Mine, China, to improve the rock fragmentation and optimize the blast design. Blasting tests were conducted with an IRDT of 50, 100, 150, 200, and 500 ms; each adjacent ring had an equal IRDT, and two replicate tests were conducted. The blasting plan with IRDT of 100 ms was the original blasting plan used in the mine. Two optimized blasting plans were proposed and implemented based on the experimental results, along with a control experiment using the original blasting plan. The fragment size of each blast test was measured and analyzed by the block-analyzed software. Both collision theoretical and field tests indicated that the IRDT plays an important role in rock fragmentation and that as the IRDT increases, the degree of rock fragmentation increases first and then decreases. For example, the fragment sizes X20, X50, and X80 showed an increase followed by a decrease; the percentage of large fragments (1-P750) showed a decline followed by a rise; the percentage of small fragments P25 showed an increase followed by a decline. The blasting plan with an IRDT of 150 ms had the most optimal rock fragmentation effect, with the lowest percentage of large fragments, the highest percentage of small fragments, and the smallest average fragment size of X50. Furthermore, the two optimized blasting plans demonstrated better control over blasting costs and rock fragmentation compared to the original blasting plan.
Research on Bifurcated Origami Hydraulic Dampers for Real Road Vibration Loads
Authors: Guan Jingchao , Zheng Baoluo , Li Yalan , Zhao Wei , Zhao Xilu
Published: July 2024

Cylindrical hydraulic dampers are commonly utilized to mitigate vibrations in machinery and structural applications. These devices generally feature a single linear stroke and are often linked to rotary joints to handle complex loading conditions. However, their installation in confined spaces, such as vehicle suspensions, poses considerable difficulties. In this research, we introduce an innovative bifurcated origami hydraulic damper with nonlinear damping capabilities. Initially, we formulated the collapsible conditional equations essential for the design of the bifurcated origami hydraulic dampers. We then examined the fluid dynamics within the damper and its flow channels, determining that the damping force is proportional to the square of the velocity. Furthermore, we developed motion equations based on the derived damping force and suggested vibration analysis methods using the Runge–Kutta approach. For the mass-spring vibration system, we created an experimental setup with the bifurcated origami hydraulic damper and performed vibration tests using noise signals recorded from a vehicle traveling on a gravel road, thus validating its damping performance and efficacy. Additional tests, which varied the orifice size at the end of the origami structure, as well as the type and temperature of the internal fluid, showed that the orifice size had a more pronounced effect on damping efficiency than the fluid type and temperature. This confirmed the vibration-damping effectiveness of the bifurcated origami hydraulic damper.
Are Clinical Balance Measures Linked to Cycling Performance?
Authors: Harris Tasman , Netto Kevin , Hillier Caitlin M. , Burgess Sharni , Rosalie Simon M.
Published: July 2024

Balance is paramount to safe and successful cycling, both in competition and recreation. Balance has been investigated in the return-to-cycling context, but its relationship to cycling performance is unknown. Our study aimed to analyse the relationship between balance, measured by common clinical balance tests, and cycling performance. Seven competitive cyclists participated in this cross-sectional correlational study. We collected field-based measures of cycling performance, including mean velocity, minimum and maximum velocity, mean corner speed, average lap time, and lean angle. Also, we measured balance via the balance error scoring system, the star excursion balance test, the lateral reach test, and the modified Bass test of dynamic balance. Strong correlations between cornering performance and cycling performance (r = 0.65–0.87, p < 0.01) were detected. Weak correlations between clinical balance tests and cycling performance (r = 0.33–0.53, p < 0.05) were observed. In conclusion, our study showed that improving cornering performance has the potential to improve overall cycling performance. We also found no clear correlations between our clinical balance tests and cycling performance. These weak correlations between postural control in standing and cycling performance suggest that standing balance and balancing during cycling are distinct motor control processes.
Open-Pit Mining Area Extraction Using Multispectral Remote Sensing Images: A Deep Learning Extraction Method Based on Transformer
Authors: Qiao Qinghua , Li Yanyue , Lv Huaquan
Published: July 2024

In the era of remote sensing big data, the intelligent interpretation of remote sensing images is a key technology for mining the value of remote sensing big data and promoting a number of major applications, mainly including land cover classification and extraction. Among these, the rapid extraction of open-pit mining areas plays a vital role in current practices for refined mineral resources development and management and ecological–environmental protection in China. However, existing methods are not accurate enough for classification, not fine enough for boundary extraction, and poor in terms of multi-scale adaptation. To address these issues, we propose a new semantic segmentation model based on Transformer, which is called Segmentation for Mine—SegMine—and consists of a Vision Transformer-based encoder and a lightweight attention mask decoder. The experimental results show that SegMine enhances the network’s ability to obtain local spatial detail information and improves the problem of disappearing small-scale object features and insufficient information expression. It also better preserves the boundary details of open-pit mining areas. Using the metrics of mIoU, precision, recall, and dice, experimental areas were selected for comparative analysis, and the results show that the new method is significantly better than six other existing major Transformer variants.