bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between Motoric Cognitive Risk Syndrome and Indicators of Reflecting Independent Living among Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Japan: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Takimoto Koji , Takebayashi Hideaki , Yoshikawa Yoshiyuki , Sasano Hiromi , Tsujishita Soma , Ikeda Koji
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine whether motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCR) is associated with various indicators of independent living among community-dwelling older adults in Japan. The study design was a cross-sectional study, and the participants were 107 community-dwelling older adults (mean age 79 ± 7 years) who were living independently. The participants were administered the Questionnaire for Medical Checkup of Old-Old (QMCOO) as an indicator of health status and the Japan Science and Technology Agency Index of Competence (JST-IC) as an indicator of higher levels of functioning capacity, among others. In addition, we assessed physical frailty (J-CHS), sarcopenia (AWGS2019), and MCR (slow gait + subjective memory complaints), which are predictors of adverse events in the elderly. Multiple regression analysis with QMCOO as the response variable showed that MCR (p = 0.01, β: 0.25) and physical frailty (p < 0.01, β: 0.43) were significantly associated. In addition, analysis with JST-IC as the response variable showed that MCR (p = 0.03, β: −0.20), physical frailty (p = 0.01, β: −0.24) and age (p = 0.02, β: −0.21) were significantly associated. In conclusion, MCR was found to be similarly associated with QMCOO and JST-IC as physical frailty. It is expected that the MCR will be used as an initial screening tool to identify signs of risk in community-dwelling older people, as it is easy to diagnose.
Impact of Natural Disasters on Mental Health: Evidence and Implications
Authors: Heanoy Eamin Z. , Brown Norman R.
Published: September 2024

Natural disasters are large-scale catastrophic events, and they are increasing in frequency and severity. Converging evidence indicates that the mental health consequences of disasters are extensive and are often associated with trauma and the disruption of personal and socioeconomic factors in people’s lives. Although most individuals experiencing disaster-related traumatic events do not develop mental illnesses, some experience adverse psychological effects of disasters. These mental health effects begin immediately following a disaster and may persist for extended periods. In this article, we summarize the literature findings to provide a narrative review that focuses on the mental health consequences of natural disasters. An overview of the disaster mental health research field is provided, and the findings are ordered into theoretical frameworks. Then, the development and course of psychopathology regarding disaster aftermath are described in a methodological context. Next, understanding a disaster as an event of transition is highlighted, and the impact of this disaster-specific transition is discussed. Lastly, a potential relationship between the transitional impact of a disaster and mental health consequences is speculated on, and the implications are discussed. The impact of disasters on mental health can be direct or indirect, short-term or long-term, and to some extent depends on the recovery process of the affected community. Also, we propose the possible merits of using the Transitional Impact Scale in the context of disaster mental health research by assessing the features of disaster-related transition and its effects on mental health. We conclude by suggesting a direction for future research in terms of measuring the disaster mental health effects in community settings (affected vs. non-affected) and also considering cross-cultural and cross-regional differences. In recent decades, a large amount of knowledge has been gathered from disaster mental health research, but, still, more research is needed to resolve some irregular findings through refining the methodological variations.
Explain Breathlessness: Could ‘Usual’ Explanations Contribute to Maladaptive Beliefs of People Living with Breathlessness?
Authors: Williams Marie T. , Lewthwaite Hayley , Brooks Dina , Johnston Kylie N.
Published: September 2024

Background: Explanations provided by healthcare professionals contribute to patient beliefs. Little is known about how healthcare professionals explain chronic breathlessness to people living with this adverse sensation. Methods: A purpose-designed survey disseminated via newsletters of Australian professional associations (physiotherapy, respiratory medicine, palliative care). Respondents provided free-text responses for their usual explanation and concepts important to include, avoid, or perceived as difficult to understand by recipients. Content analysis coded free text into mutually exclusive categories with the proportion of respondents in each category reported. Results: Respondents (n = 61) were predominantly clinicians (93%) who frequently (80% daily/weekly) conversed with patients about breathlessness. Frequent phrases included within usual explanations reflected breathlessness resulting from medical conditions (70% of respondents) and physiological mechanisms (44%) with foci ranging from multifactorial to single-mechanism origins. Management principles were important to include and phrases encouraging maladaptive beliefs were important to avoid. The most frequent difficult concept identified concerned inconsistent relationships between oxygenation and breathlessness. Where explanations included the term ’oxygen’, a form of cognitive shortcut (heuristic) may contribute to erroneous beliefs. Conclusions: This study presents examples of health professional explanations for chronic breathlessness as a starting point for considering whether and how explanations could contribute to adaptive or maladaptive breathlessness beliefs of recipients.
Food Delivery Apps and Their Potential to Address Food Insecurity in Older Adults: A Review
Authors: Hwang Sangchul , Johnson Cassandra M. , Charles Joni , Biediger-Friedman Lesli
Published: September 2024

The proportion of older adults is increasing globally, yet many of them experience food insecurity. Technological innovations, such as increased access to internet- and mobile-based food delivery apps (FDAs), may help mitigate food insecurity. However, this topic has been understudied. This scoping review searched for publications and online technical reports from around the world using interdisciplinary databases like ScienceDirect and internet sources like government websites, respectively. Eligible references were published recently (2019–present) and focused on general technology use, including apps, among older adults (≥50 years) or FDAs for food insecurity or nutritional health generally or specifically among older adults. The search identified 19 studies from 10 countries and extracted relevant information for summary tables. A limited number of studies supported the idea that FDAs can help address food insecurity, but there are important equity considerations for older adults living in rural areas or with constrained physical abilities. Consistently, customized app features and functions increased the intention to use FDAs. In addition, FDAs may have health and environmental impacts, such as food waste and increased access or promotion of ultraprocessed foods. Additional research is needed to elucidate the potential of FDAs to address food insecurity generally and specifically among older adults.
Diet and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Scoping Review
Authors: Reis Marcela Gomes , Lopes Lucas Carvalho , Sanches Ana Beatriz Amaral M. De A. , Guimarães Nathalia Sernizon , Martins-Chaves Roberta Rayra
Published: September 2024

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the sixth most common type of cancer globally. While smoking is a key risk factor, rising cases in non-smokers highlight the need to explore other factors like diet. This scoping review aims to deepen the evidence on the relationship between OSCC and diet, following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, and was registered on Open Science Framework. Searches were performed in four electronic databases: MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Lilacs, without date or language restrictions. Studies were evaluated, extracted, and compiled in a narrative table. Seventeen studies with 10,954 patients were analyzed. Most patients were male (74.63%), aged 18–89 (average 50.62). Studies were mainly from high (82%) and medium (17%) Human Development Index (HDI) countries. Dietary surveys included a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) (58.8%), interviews/questionnaires (17.6%), and an FFQ with a photographic atlas (5.9%). Certain foods in excess like fruits, vegetables, and tea were inversely associated with OSCC, while salty meats, dairy, coffee, sausages, and fried and spicy foods were positively associated. Due to the heterogeneity of the tools used to obtain food frequency data, the results should be interpreted cautiously. New standardized studies and randomized trials are essential to advance understanding and control confounding factors in this field.
The Vital Role of the CAMTA Gene Family in Phoebe bournei in Response to Drought, Heat, and Light Stress
Authors: Zheng Kehui , Li Min , Yang Zhicheng , He Chenyue , Wu Zekai , Tong Zaikang , Zhang Junhong , Zhang Yanzi , Cao Shijiang
Published: September 2024

The calmodulin-binding transcriptional activator (CAMTA) is a small, conserved gene family in plants that plays a crucial role in regulating growth, development, and responses to various abiotic stress. Given the significance of the CAMTA gene family, various studies have been dedicated to uncovering its functional characteristics. In this study, genome-wide identification and bioinformatics analysis were conducted to explore CAMTAs in Phoebe bournei. A total of 17 CAMTA genes, each containing at least one domain from CG-1, TIG, ANK, or IQ, were identified in the P. bournei genome. The diversity of PbCAMTAs could be varied depending on their subcellular localization. An analysis of protein motifs, domains, and gene structure revealed that members within the same subgroup exhibited similar organization, supporting the results of the phylogenetic analysis. Gene duplications occurred among members of the PbCAMTA gene family. According to the cis-regulatory element prediction and protein–protein interaction network analysis, eight genes were subjected to qRT-PCR under drought, heat, and light stresses. The expression profiles indicated that PbCAMTAs, particularly PbCAMTA2, PbCAMTA12, and PbCAMTA16, were induced by abiotic stress. This study provides profound insights into the functions of CAMTAs in P. bournei.
Phylogenetic Lineages and Diseases Associated with Moraxella catarrhalis Isolates Recovered from Bulgarian Patients
Authors: Alexandrova Alexandra S. , Boyanov Vasil S. , Mihova Kalina Y. , Gergova Raina T.
Published: September 2024

Moraxella catarrhalis has been recognized as an important cause of upper respiratory tract and middle ear infections in children, as well as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic bronchitis in adults. We aim to study the clonal structure, antimicrobial resistance, and serotypes of M. catarrhalis strains recovered from patients of different ages. Nasopharyngeal swabs, middle ear fluid, and sputum samples were collected. In vitro susceptibility testing was performed according to EUCAST criteria. The monoclonal Ab hybridoma technique was used for serotyping. All strains were subjected to MLST. The studied population demonstrated susceptibility to all tested antimicrobials M. catarrhalis strains, with the majority being serotype A (90.4%), followed by B (6.8%), and C (2.7%). We observed a predominant clonal complex CC224 (21.9%) along with other clusters including CC141 (8.2%), CC184 (8.2%), CC449 (6.8%), CC390 (5.5%), and CC67 (2.7%). Two primary founders, namely, ST224 and ST141, were identified. The analyzed genetic lineages displayed diversity but revealed the predominance of two main clusters, CC224 and CC141, encompassing multidrug-resistant sequence types distributed in other regions. These data underscore the need for ongoing epidemiological monitoring of successfully circulating clones and the implementation of adequate antibiotic policies to limit or delay the spread of multidrug-resistant strains in our region.
A New Real-Time Simple Method to Measure the Endogenous Nitrate Reductase Activity (Nar) in Paracoccus denitrificans and Other Denitrifying Bacteria
Authors: García-Trejo José J. , Rojas-Alcantar Sharon , Alonso-Vargas Monserrat , Ortega Raquel , Benítez-Guzmán Alejandro , Ramírez-Silva Leticia , Pavón Natalia , Peña-Segura Claudia , Méndez-Romero Ofelia , Uribe-Carvajal Salvador , Cadena-Ramírez Arturo
Published: September 2024

The transmembrane nitrate reductase (Nar) is the first enzyme in the dissimilatory alternate anaerobic nitrate respiratory chain in denitrifying bacteria. To date, there has been no real-time method to determine its specific activity embedded in its native membrane; here, we describe such a new method, which is useful with the inside-out membranes of Paracoccus denitrificans and other denitrifying bacteria. This new method takes advantage of the native coupling of the endogenous NADH dehydrogenase or Complex I with the reduction of nitrate by Nar through the quinone pool of the inner membranes of P. denitrificans. This is achieved under previously reached anaerobic conditions. Inner controls confirming the specific Nar activity determined by this new method were made by the total inhibition of the Nar enzyme by sodium azide and cyanide, well-known Nar inhibitors. The estimation of the Michaelis–Menten affinity of Nar for NO3− using this so-called Nar-JJ assay gave a Km of 70.4 μM, similar to previously determined values. This new Nar-JJ assay is a suitable, low-cost, and reproducible method to determine in real-time the endogenous Nar activity not only in P. denitrificans, but in other denitrifying bacteria such as Brucella canis, and potentially in other entero-pathogenic bacteria.
From In Vitro Promise to In Vivo Reality: An Instructive Account of Infection Model Evaluation of Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Carrera-Aubesart Adam , Li Jiarui , Contreras Estefanía , Bello-Madruga Roberto , Torrent Marc , Andreu David
Published: September 2024

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are regarded as a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics in the face of ever-increasing resistance. However, many AMPs fail to progress into clinics due to unexpected difficulties found in preclinical in vivo phases. Our research has focused on crotalicidin (Ctn), an AMP from snake venom, and a fragment thereof, Ctn[15-34], with improved in vitro antimicrobial and anticancer activities and remarkable serum stability. As the retroenantio versions of both AMPs maintained favorable profiles, in this work, we evaluate the in vivo efficacy of both the native-sequence AMPs and their retroenantio counterparts in a murine infection model with Acinetobacter baumannii. A significant reduction in bacterial levels is found in the mice treated with Ctn[15-34]. However, contrary to expectations, the retroenantio analogs either exhibit toxicity or lack efficacy when administered to mice. Our findings underscore the critical importance of in vivo infection model evaluation to fully calibrate the therapeutic potential of AMPs.
Charge-Reversal Nano-Drug Delivery Systems in the Tumor Microenvironment: Mechanisms, Challenges, and Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Liang Yizhu , Wu Jiashuai , Yan Yutong , Wang Yunduan , Zhao Hongtu , Wang Xiaopeng , Chang Shijie , Li Shuo
Published: September 2024

The charge-reversal nano-drug delivery system (CRNDDS) is a promising system for delivering chemotherapy drugs and has gained widespread application in cancer treatment. In this review, we summarize the recent advancements in CRNDDSs in terms of cancer treatment. We also delve into the charge-reversal mechanism of the CRNDDSs, focusing on the acid-responsive, redox-responsive, and enzyme-responsive mechanisms. This study elucidates how these systems undergo charge transitions in response to specific microenvironmental stimuli commonly found in tumor tissues. Furthermore, this review explores the pivotal role of CRNDDSs in tumor diagnosis and treatment, and their potential limitations. By leveraging the unique physiological characteristics of tumors, such as the acidic pH, specific redox potential, and specific enzyme activity, these systems demonstrate enhanced accumulation and penetration at tumor sites, resulting in improved therapeutic efficacy and diagnostic accuracy. The implications of this review highlight the potential of charge-reversal drug delivery systems as a novel and targeted strategy for cancer therapy and diagnosis.
Myosin Isoform-Dependent Effect of Omecamtiv Mecarbil on the Regulation of Force Generation in Human Cardiac Muscle
Authors: Scellini Beatrice , Piroddi Nicoletta , Dente Marica , Pioner J. Manuel , Ferrantini Cecilia , Poggesi Corrado , Tesi Chiara
Published: September 2024

Omecamtiv mecarbil (OM) is a small molecule that has been shown to improve the function of the slow human ventricular myosin (MyHC) motor through a complex perturbation of the thin/thick filament regulatory state of the sarcomere mediated by binding to myosin allosteric sites coupled to inorganic phosphate (Pi) release. Here, myofibrils from samples of human left ventricle (β-slow MyHC-7) and left atrium (α-fast MyHC-6) from healthy donors were used to study the differential effects of μmolar [OM] on isometric force in relaxing conditions (pCa 9.0) and at maximal (pCa 4.5) or half-maximal (pCa 5.75) calcium activation, both under control conditions (15 °C; equimolar DMSO; contaminant inorganic phosphate [Pi] ~170 μM) and in the presence of 5 mM [Pi]. The activation state and OM concentration within the contractile lattice were rapidly altered by fast solution switching, demonstrating that the effect of OM was rapid and fully reversible with dose-dependent and myosin isoform-dependent features. In MyHC-7 ventricular myofibrils, OM increased submaximal and maximal Ca2+-activated isometric force with a complex dose-dependent effect peaking (40% increase) at 0.5 μM, whereas in MyHC-6 atrial myofibrils, it had no effect or—at concentrations above 5 µM—decreased the maximum Ca2+-activated force. In both ventricular and atrial myofibrils, OM strongly depressed the kinetics of force development and relaxation up to 90% at 10 μM [OM] and reduced the inhibition of force by inorganic phosphate. Interestingly, in the ventricle, but not in the atrium, OM induced a large dose-dependent Ca2+-independent force development and an increase in basal ATPase that were abolished by the presence of millimolar inorganic phosphate, consistent with the hypothesis that the widely reported Ca2+-sensitising effect of OM may be coupled to a change in the state of the thick filaments that resembles the on–off regulation of thin filaments by Ca2+. The complexity of this scenario may help to understand the disappointing results of clinical trials testing OM as inotropic support in systolic heart failure compared with currently available inotropic drugs that alter the calcium signalling cascade.
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals an Atlas of Hezuo Pig Testis Cells
Authors: Yan Zunqiang , Wang Pengfei , Yang Qiaoli , Gun Shuangbao
Published: September 2024

Spermatogenesis is a complex biological process crucial for male reproduction and is characterized by intricate interactions between testicular somatic cells and germ cells. Due to the cellular heterogeneity of the testes, investigating different cell types across developmental stages has been challenging. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has emerged as a valuable approach for addressing this limitation. Here, we conducted an unbiased transcriptomic study of spermatogenesis in sexually mature 4-month-old Hezuo pigs using 10× Genomics-based scRNA-seq. A total of 16,082 cells were collected from Hezuo pig testes, including germ cells (spermatogonia (SPG), spermatocytes (SPCs), spermatids (SPTs), and sperm (SP)) and somatic cells (Sertoli cells (SCs), Leydig cells (LCs), myoid cells (MCs), endothelial cells (ECs), and natural killer (NK) cells/macrophages). Pseudo-time analysis revealed that LCs and MCs originated from common progenitors in the Hezuo pig. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the different types of testicular germ cells were enriched in the PI3K–AKT, Wnt, HIF-1, and adherens junction signaling pathways, while the DEGs in testicular somatic cells were enriched in ECM–receptor interaction and antigen processing and presentation. Moreover, genes related to spermatogenesis, male gamete generation, sperm part, sperm flagellum, and peptide biosynthesis were expressed throughout spermatogenesis. Using immunohistochemistry, we verified several stage-specific marker genes (such as UCHL1, WT1, SOX9, and ACTA2) for SPG, SCs, and MCs. By exploring the changes in the transcription patterns of various cell types during spermatogenesis, our study provided novel insights into spermatogenesis and testicular cells in the Hezuo pig, thereby laying the foundation for the breeding and preservation of this breed.
Deoxynivalenol Induces Local Inflammation and Lesions in Tissues at Doses Recommended by the EU
Authors: Pierron Alix , Balbo Luciana C. , Soler Laura , Pinton Philippe , Puel Sylvie , Laffitte Joëlle , Albin Mickaël , Bracarense Ana-Paula F. R. Loureiro , Rodriguez Maria A. , Oswald Isabelle P.
Published: September 2024

The mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) is frequently present in cereals at low levels, resulting in its occurrence in food and feed. DON has been proven to alter the immune response and induce inflammation in all species, with pigs exhibiting heightened sensitivity and exposure. However, no study has yet evaluated the effects of exposure to DON at the recommended levels in pig feed. In two separate trials, piglets were subjected to control feed or feed contaminated with a low level of purified DON (0.83 mg/kg feed in trial 1 and 0.85 mg/kg feed in trial 2) for either three weeks (trial 1) or two weeks (trial 2). Additionally, a group of animals exposed to 2.85 mg/kg feed of DON was included as a positive control in Trial 1. The impact of DON on porcine tissues (intestine, liver, and spleen) was evaluated through histological and qPCR analyses of immune-related genes. Additionally, biochemical analyses and acute-phase proteins were examined in plasma samples. Lesions were identified in the intestine (jejunum and ileum), the liver, and the spleen of pigs receiving diets contaminated with low and high concentrations of DON. The low level of DON also resulted in impaired expression of genes associated with intestinal barrier integrity, intestinal immune responses, and liver function. In conclusion, the results of the two trials demonstrate the impact of DON exposure even at doses below the recommended level of 0.9 mg/kg feed set by the European Union. This suggests that the current recommended level should be reconsidered to ensure the optimal health and well-being of pigs.
A Hybrid Method Combining Voronoi Diagrams and the Random Walk Algorithm for Generating the Mesostructure of Concrete
Authors: Wang Binhui , Song Xiaogang , Weng Chunying , Yan Xiaodong , Zhang Zihua
Published: September 2024

The modeling of the concrete matrix serves as a foundation for mesoscale analysis of concrete, which provides a crucial avenue for investigating the crack propagation and strength characteristics of concrete. However, the primary prerequisite for conducting such analyses is the generation of aggregate models. By combining the advantages of Voronoi diagrams and the random walk algorithm (RWA), a Voronoi–random walk algorithm is proposed in this paper. The algorithm overcomes the limitations of traditional methods, including constraints on aggregate volume fraction, low computational efficiency, and insufficient randomness in aggregate distribution. The meso-structure of a concrete block was modeled by the proposed method, and then its failure behavior under uniaxial compression was simulated using the finite element method. The numerical results agreed well with the experimental observations, indicating the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed approach.
Carbonyl Iron Particles’ Enhanced Coating Effect Improves Magnetorheological Fluid’s Dispersion Stability
Authors: Chen Fang , Zhang Jie , Guo Qinkui , Liu Yuchen , Liu Xiaobing , Ding Wenwu , Yan Shengnan , Yan Zhaoqiang , Li Zhenggui
Published: September 2024

The coating effect of 1,2-bis(triethoxysilyl)ethane (BTES) on carbonyl iron particles (CIPs) was enhanced by etching with hydrochloric acid (HCl) of various concentrations, and magnetorheological fluids (MRFs) with significantly improved dispersion stability were obtained. The microstructures, coating effect, and magnetism of CIPs were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), automatic surface and porosity analysis (BTE), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), respectively. Furthermore, the rheological properties and dispersion stability of the MRFs were assessed by a rotating rheometer and a Turbiscan Tower. The results show that as the HCl concentration increased, nanopores appeared on CIPs and then disappeared, and the specific surface area of the particles increased and then decreased. When the concentration of HCl was 0.50 mol/L, the number of nanopores and the specific surface area of particles changed sharply. Not only that, the coated mass of BTES increased greatly and the saturation magnetization of particles decreased sharply. As the coated mass increased, without a magnetic field, the viscosity and shear stress of the MRFs increased, especially when the coated mass was more than 2.45 wt.%; while under a magnetic field, the viscosity and shear stress decreased, and the sedimentation rate of the MRFs decreased from 0.13 to 0.01 mm/h. By controlling the concentration of HCl for etching, the coating effect of CIPs was greatly enhanced, and thus an MRF with superior shear stress and excellent dispersion stability was obtained, which is significant in basic research and MRF-related applications.
Molten Aluminum-Induced Corrosion and Wear-Resistance Properties of ZrB2-Based Cermets Improved by Sintering-Temperature Manipulation
Authors: Yi Huaqing , Ren Kezhu , Chen Hao , Cheng Xiang , Xie Xiaolong , Liang Mengtian , Yin Bingbing , Yang Yi
Published: September 2024

During the hot dip aluminum plating process, components such as sinking rollers, pulling rollers, and guide plates will come into long-term contact with high-temperature liquid aluminum and be corroded by the aluminum liquid, greatly reducing their service life. Therefore, the development of a material with excellent corrosion resistance to molten aluminum is used to prepare parts for the dipping and plating equipment and protect the equipment from erosion, which can effectively improve the production efficiency of the factory and strengthen the quality of aluminum-plated materials, which is of great significance for the growth of corporate profits. With AlFeNiCoCr as the binder phase and ZrB2 as the hard phase, ZrB2-based ceramic composites were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS). SEM, EDS and XRD were used to characterize the microstructure and properties of the sintered, corroded, and abraded material samples. The density, fracture toughness, corrosion rate and wear amount of the composite material were measured. The results show that ZrB2-AlFeNiCoCr ceramics have compact structure and excellent mechanical properties, and the density, hardness and fracture toughness of ZrB2-AlFeNiCoCr increase with the increase in sintering temperature. However, when the composite material is at 1600 °C, the relative density of the sintering at 1600 °C decreases due to the overflow of the bonding phase. Therefore, when the sintering temperature is 1500 °C, the high entropy alloy has the best performance. The average corrosion rate of ZrB2-1500 at 700 °C liquid aluminum is 1.225 × 10−3 mm/h, and the wear amount in the friction and wear test is 0.104 mm3.
Advancing Model Generalization in Continuous Cyclic Test-Time Adaptation with Matrix Perturbation Noise
Authors: Jiang Jinshen , Yang Hao , Yang Lin , Zhou Yun
Published: September 2024

Test-time adaptation (TTA) aims to optimize source-pretrained model parameters to target domains using only unlabeled test data. However, traditional TTA methods often risk overfitting to the specific, localized test domains, leading to compromised generalization. Moreover, these methods generally presume static target domains, neglecting the dynamic and cyclic nature of real-world settings. To alleviate this limitation, this paper explores the continuous cyclic test-time adaptation (CycleTTA) setting. Our unique approach within this setting employs matrix-wise perturbation noise in batch-normalization statistics to enhance the adaptability of source-pretrained models to dynamically changing target domains, without the need for additional parameters. We demonstrated the effectiveness of our method through extensive experiments, where our approach reduced the average error by 39.8% on the CIFAR10-C dataset using the WideResNet-28-10 model, by 38.8% using the WideResNet-40-2 model, and by 33.8% using the PreActResNet-18 model. Additionally, on the CIFAR100-C dataset with the WideResNet-40-2 model, our method reduced the average error by 5.3%, showcasing significant improvements in model generalization in continuous cyclic testing scenarios.
Association between Frailty and Asthma
Authors: Park Jong Myung , Lee Sujin , Chung Jae Ho
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives: This study investigated whether there is an association between elderly frailty and asthma. Material Methods: We examined 9745 elderly participants who did not have asthma and 275 elderly patients who had asthma diagnosed by a doctor from the 2020 Survey of Living Conditions and Welfare Needs of Korean Older Persons Survey. Study Selections: The Korean version of the fatigue, resistance, ambulation, illnesses, and loss of weight (K-FRAIL) scale was used to determine their level of frailty. The relationship between frailty and geriatric asthma was examined using multiple logistic regression analysis, which was adjusted for a number of confounding variables (socioeconomic, health behavior, psychological characteristics, and functional status). Results: Frailty as defined by the K-FRAIL scale was significantly higher in the asthma group (7.6%) than the non-asthma group (4.9%). The frailty phenotype component showed that resistance, ambulation, and illness severity were more severe in the asthma group than the non-asthma group. After adjusting, asthma was significantly associated with an increased risk of frailty (OR 1.45; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–2.09) compared to the non-asthma group. Conclusions: Frailty might be associated with elderly asthma in patients from the Korean population. Frailty may not only be associated with asthma, but also with other diseases. So, more evidence is needed to establish this association.
A Two-Scale Texture Modelling of AA1050 Aluminum Alloy after Accumulative Roll-Bonding (ARB)
Authors: Shi Lisha , Yao Shunjie , Yuan Chen , Tu Haibiao , Wang Hui
Published: September 2024

Texture evolution during accumulative roll-bonding (ARB) is complicated because of the change in the through-thickness position that results from repeated cutting–stacking and roll-bonding. In this study, a macro–micro two-scale modeling was carried out to investigate the behaviors of texture evolution during ARB. The finite element method (FEM) was used to predict the strain history at a macro-scale, while a crystal plasticity FEM was used to reproduce the texture at a micro-scale. The texture evolution along three different cutting–stacking paths was traced and investigated. The patterns of texture transition between the rolling-type, shear-type, and random-type textures were studied by using area fractions of texture components, the distribution of textures, and the distribution of crystal rotation angles.
Dao, the Godhead, and the Wandering Way: Daoism and Eckhart’s Mystical Theology
Authors: Katzaroff Giovanni Nikolai
Published: September 2024

In popular discourse, it is not uncommon to highlight the distinctiveness of systems of “Eastern thought” (e.g., Daoism) in contrast to so-called “Western” systems. However, there is an interesting congruence between Daoism and Meister Eckhart’s mystical theology, particularly in regard to the concepts of the Dao and the Godhead. Like the Dao, the Godhead is the “ground” of all being, simultaneously radically transcendent and immanent, considered as distinct from all things and yet the enfolded totality of them. Both these concepts are also dynamic principles, continually manifesting in the flux of the ever-changing universe. In both systems, nature at its fundamental level is characterized by namelessness, emptiness, encompassment, and dynamism. Nature as “ground” is also a religio-ethical concept. Humans are called to align with this ground and enter into a state of wandering joy, called wuwei (non-action) in Daoism and the “wayless way” for Eckhart. Through reverting to their indeterminate source, the person is able to become detached from rigid teleological norms. Thus is laid the foundation for an ethics of non-attachment, wherein individuals dwell in an existential flow and are attuned to all yet anchored unquestionably to none.
Intelligent Control System for Brain-Controlled Mobile Robot Using Self-Learning Neuro-Fuzzy Approach
Authors: Razzaq Zahid , Brahimi Nihad , Rehman Hafiz Zia Ur , Khan Zeashan Hameed
Published: September 2024

Brain-computer interface (BCI) provides direct communication and control between the human brain and physical devices. It is achieved by converting EEG signals into control commands. Such interfaces have significantly improved the lives of disabled individuals suffering from neurological disorders—such as stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and spinal cord injury—by extending their movement range and thereby promoting self-independence. Brain-controlled mobile robots, however, often face challenges in safety and control performance due to the inherent limitations of BCIs. This paper proposes a shared control scheme for brain-controlled mobile robots by utilizing fuzzy logic to enhance safety, control performance, and robustness. The proposed scheme is developed by combining a self-learning neuro-fuzzy (SLNF) controller with an obstacle avoidance controller (OAC). The SLNF controller robustly tracks the user’s intentions, and the OAC ensures the safety of the mobile robot following the BCI commands. Furthermore, SLNF is a model-free controller that can learn as well as update its parameters online, diminishing the effect of disturbances. The experimental results prove the efficacy and robustness of the proposed SLNF controller including a higher task completion rate of 94.29% (compared to 79.29%, and 92.86% for Direct BCI and Fuzzy-PID, respectively), a shorter average task completion time of 85.31 s (compared to 92.01 s and 86.16 s for Direct BCI and Fuzzy-PID, respectively), and reduced settling time and overshoot.
Distributed Embedded System for Multiparametric Assessment of Infrastructure Durability Using Electrochemical Techniques
Authors: Monreal-Trigo Javier , Ramón José Enrique , Bataller Román , Alcañiz Miguel , Soto Juan , Gandía-Romero José Manuel
Published: September 2024

We present an autonomous system that remotely monitors the state of reinforced concrete structures. This system performs real-time follow-up of the corrosion rate of rebars (iCORR), along with other relevant parameters such as temperature, corrosion potential (ECORR), and electrical resistance of concrete (RE), at many of a structure’s control points by using embedded sensors. iCORR is obtained by applying a novel low-stress electrochemical polarization technique to corrosion sensors. The custom electronic system manages the sensor network, consisting of a measurement board per control point connected to a central single-board computer in charge of processing measurement data and uploading results to a server via 4G connection. In this work, we report the results obtained after implementing the sensor system into a reinforced concrete wall, where two well-differentiated representative areas were monitored. The obtained corrosion parameters showed consistent values. Similar conclusions are obtained with ECORR recorded in rebars. With the iCORR follow-up, the corrosion penetration damage diagram is built. This diagram is particularly useful for identifying critical events during the corrosion propagation period and to be able to estimate structures’ service life. Hence, the system is presented as a useful tool for the structural maintenance and service life predictions of new structures.
Staffi ng of St. Petersburg industry through modernization of the vocational education system
Authors:   Department of Art History of the Higher School of Folk Arts (Academy), St. Petersburg, Tikhomirov S.A.
Published: September 2024

A brief description of the state of industry in St. Petersburg is given on the basis of data from open statistical sources. The problem of personnel shortage of enterprises has been fixed, since a significant part of graduates of institutions of higher and secondary vocational education are employed in the service sector. The causes of the problem of staffing the industry of St. Petersburg with young specialists are identified, existing support measures at the city level are analyzed, and an idea is proposed aimed at overcoming the dysfunction between the ecosystem of vocational education and the demands of employers. The essence of the idea is the modernization of the vocational education system in industry, the results of its implementation and the roadmap up to 2030 are described.
Features of Paleolithic painting of the Kapov Cave (Shulgan-Tash)
Authors:   Russian Geographical Society, Shulgan-Tash Cave Museum-Reserve, Lyakhnitsky Yu.S.
Published: September 2024

The article describes the methodology and results of fixing the Paleolithic painting of the Kapov Cave. The characteristics of the most interesting drawings and their typification are given. A comparison is made between the drawings of the Kapov Cave and the paintings of the caves of Western Europe. The high importance of the painting of the Kapov Cave as an object of culture, art and archeology of world importance is substantiated. The existence in the Paleolithic of an independent South Ural center of the most ancient culture, similar to the Western European, but having certain specifics and individual characteristics, is proved.
Th eology as the science of existence and philosophy as the science of being in the fundamental ontology of M. Heidegger
Authors:   Department of Foreign Literature Herzen University, Dokuchaev I.I.
Published: September 2024

The article deals with the project of understanding transcendental reality, undertaken within the framework of phenomenology. It is shown that phenomenological reduction, which leaves beyond the limits of evidence all types of objects of consciousness and all types of existence, if they do not reveal their meaning within the framework of the phenomenal givenness of themselves to experience, fundamentally does not allow us to talk about the transcendent. This circumstance reveals the limitations of phenomenology and the need to supplement it with various ontological and epistemological constructions, such as positive sciences, theology, theory of objects, ontology of ideal objects, etc. The article demonstrates a project for such an addition: the fundamental ontology of Martin Heidegger. Martin Heidegger shows that phenomenology in the format of fundamental ontology Dasein has an advantage over theology, since it is the science of being, and theology is just the science of existence, namely one of its types — historical revelation. It turns out that this project separates phenomenology and theology as the basis for any positive research, including theological, and thus does not allow us to talk about a phenomenological study of the transcendent. Thus, it is shown that phenomenological philosophy and theology are fundamentally incompatible.
Application of textures and tactility enhancement in graphic design. Approaches of texture creation
Authors:   Graphic designer, author of tools for Adobe graphic editors, Russia, Ekaterinburg, Ivanova Aleksandra
Published: September 2024

Graphic design as a language of visual communication uses diff erent methods to infl uence the viewer. This article considers the use of textures for the purpose of visual and tactile enrichment of design. By examining methods and examples of texture communication, this paper aims to clarify the creative possibilities and impact of textures on design aesthetics.
Perception of Alfred Doblin’s personality and work in the USSR in the 1930s
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Moscow Pedagogical State University”, Ermolina N.V.
Published: September 2024

The article examines the critical articles devoted to the publication of Alfred Döblin’s novels in the USSR in the 1930s, as well as the material of letters sent to the author by the editors of the International Literature journal and the Foreign Commission of the Union of Soviet Writers. The main aspects of the criticism of the novels presented in the articles are analyzed: the expressive mode of presentation, the fragmentary nature of the descriptions, the absence of a clear political position of the author, the reflection in the texts of the decline of capitalist society and the struggle of the proletariat. The material of the letters shows the interest of the Soviet society and authorities in the work of Alfred Döblin, in his personality, creative method and political position. For the first time, the material of the letters is being introduced into the scientific circulation, which helps to complete the understanding of the attitude to the author’s work and personality in the 1930s in the USSR.
The significance and role of the Local Council of 1917–1918 for the development of the Institute of Higher Church Administration
Authors:   Faculty of theology Slavic-Greek-Latin Academy, Moscow, Egorov R.A.
Published: September 2024

This article is devoted to the Local Council held in Russia in 1917–1918. The article describes the results of the Council's work that influenced the subsequent development of the Church and remain relevant today. Special attention is paid to the administrative management of the Church and the powers of its authorities. In general, the system of balancing the powers of church administrative institutions, which was adopted at the Council, is still in force today. In the context of socio-political instability in the country (in the context of two revolutions in 1917), the adoption of a course for the development of Russia as a secular state, the decisions of this Local Council are timely and constructive. The restoration of the patriarchate is of particular importance, and the authority of the Patriarch is not absolute, moreover, if necessary, the Bishops' Council has the right to judge the Patriarch. The main authority in the Russian Orthodox Church is the Local Council.
Cultural Capital. Part two. Accounting
Authors:   Museum Standardization University,St Petersburg, Shestakov V.A.
Published: September 2024

This part of the article dedicated to cultural value registration — a topical part of economic activity that is not currently solved. Author proposes an efficient registration method which, despite seemingly innumerable set of possible value parameters, allows to embrace more than 500 million of units within two years of operation, which includes consequent evaluation, employing hundreds of thousands of cultural field specialists in all areas of national culture, while increasing usefulness and demand of this profession.
Construção em grupo: audiodescrição do DNA
Authors: Oliveira Gondim Isadora , de Lima Paula Patricia , De Paula Rocha Monalisa
Published: September 2024

Este trabalho trata-se de um relato de experiência realizado com alunos de uma turma do 9° ano do ensino fundamental e outra do 1° do ensino médio, em uma escola particular de Belo Horizonte. O objetivo do trabalho foi apresentar uma metodologia interativa, visando trabalhar a audiodescrição e apresentar a sua importância para acessibilidade, relembrando o conteúdo ensinado sobre DNA. Participaram da dinâmica 17 alunos do 9° ano e 9 alunos do 1° ano do ensino médio. Para alcançar os objetivos propostos foi solicitado que os alunos escrevessem uma audiodescrição em grupo sobre o DNA, após uma introdução sobre conceitos de genética e uma conversa sobre acessibilidade. A experiência permitiu que pudéssemos trabalhar as dúvidas e assuntos pouco discutidos, como recursos acessíveis. Dos resultados obtidos, foi percebido que os alunos não tinham conhecimento sobre audiodescrição e ficaram muito interessados, dentro disso exploraram o conhecimento a respeito de DNA em grupo.
Avaliação da Orizalina como indutor de alterações na ploidia de Coffea canephora
Authors: Angelo Paula Cristina da Silva , Ferreira Ana Paula Marques , Shigueoka Luciana Harumi , Sera Tumoru , Sera Gustavo Hiroshi
Published: September 2024

Cruzamentos interespecíficos são utilizados em várias espécies para promover a introgressão de características que agregam valor agronômico a plantas cultivadas. Um clonde de C. canephora tetraploidizado foi um dos genitores da cultivar Icatu de C. arabica, uma das primeiras cultivares a apresentar resistência à ferrugem-alaranjada, quando a doença foi registrada no Brasil, há algumas décadas. A tetraploidização de C. canephora, comprovadamente resistente a várias populações do nematoide M. paranaensis, é uma etapa importante na obtenção de C. arabica com resistências múltiplas. Neste trabalho a orizalina em ágar suplementado com citocinina foi utilizada para tratar os meristemas apicais das plantas e empregamos o número de estômatos nas folhas e o diâmetro do núcleo como aferidores indiretos de ploidia. Dezenove plantas foram selecionadas no primeiro ciclo, e cinco plantas do segundo ciclo de seleção estão em observação, por apresentarem números de estômatos nas folhas significativamente menores do que as plantas não tratadas.
Escucha activa en la Educación Superior: Propuesta educativa para el aprendizaje colaborativo en la Licenciatura en Comunicación (UAEH-México), a través del uso del Podcast
Authors: Hernández Zuriel Alonso García , Victoria Rosa María González , Ruiz Rosa María Valles
Published: September 2024

La escucha es una habilidad lingüística que consiste en prestar atención física y mentalmente. En la educación superior su enseñanza no es explícita y su práctica entre los estudiantes y los docentes es un área de oportunidad para desarrollar competencias comunicativas, más y mejores aprendizajes, y el desarrollo de mejores relaciones interpersonales que posibilitan la construcción del conocimiento en conjunto y la formación de los estudiantes. El podcast es un archivo de audio digital que comparte información a través de narraciones, debates, charlas, monólogos entre otros, por lo cual se convierte en una herramienta didáctica en la educación universitaria. Su uso a través de las TIC, como es el caso de la plataforma digital en línea Padlet, hace posible el aprendizaje colaborativo y el fomento de la práctica de la escucha activa mediante el trabajo conjunto y síncrono entre estudiantes y profesores para el desarrollo del diálogo. Este trabajo es un ensayo que tiene por objetivo presentar una propuesta educativa para el aprendizaje colaborativo en la Licenciatura en Comunicación de la Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo a través del uso del podcast para fomentar la práctica y desarrollo de la escucha activa entre estudiantes y profesores.