Search Results (4,289)

Accurate fault diagnosis of rotating machinery in complex environments and under changing operating conditions remains a key challenge in industrial systems. In this paper, we propose a novel fault diagnosis algorithm named dual-task cognitive cost sensitivity (DCCS), designed for high-accuracy diagnosis of rotary bearing faults and small-sample scenarios under variable working conditions. The method integrates four modules: CNN for local feature extraction, LSTM for temporal features, Softmax for classification, and a DCCS-based hyperparameter optimization module. A dual-task learning objective is formulated by combining losses from both full-condition and few-shot variable-condition datasets, with adaptive cost-sensitive weighting to balance learning focus. The integration of cognitive cost sensitivity with transfer learning enhances the model’s adaptability, allowing it to flexibly generalize across different operating conditions. Experiments on the CWRU dataset demonstrate that the method achieves 99.33% accuracy within fewer training epochs and shows strong robustness to noise. Compared with mainstream optimization methods, DCCS offers higher efficiency with reduced computation time. In cross-condition diagnosis, it improves accuracy by up to 10.94 percentage points over the original Alpha Evolution algorithm, effectively addressing the challenge of limited samples in varying environments. Full article

Functional ingredients such as dietary fibers, probiotics and prebiotics, polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, and bioactive peptides are increasingly central to food systems that aim to deliver health benefits beyond basic nutrition. This review explores how molecular structure, physicochemical properties, metabolism, and microbiome interactions affect bioactivity and bioavailability. We highlight advances in green extraction, encapsulation technologies, and 3D/4D printing that enhance the stability and targeted delivery of bioactives. AI-enabled tools for ingredient discovery, structure–activity modeling, and personalized formulation are also discussed. Sensory research and market insights inform strategies to improve consumer acceptance, while clinical studies provide evidence for cardiometabolic, immune, and cognitive benefits. Safety and regulatory aspects are addressed, particularly for emerging proteins and delivery systems. By integrating scientific and technological developments across disciplines, this review provides a comprehensive foundation for future research and commercialization of safe, effective, and personalized functional food products. Full article

This study aims to bridge the research gap emerging from the relationships between Visual electronic Word-of-Mouth (VeWOM) and brand factors, and their impact on consumers’ behavior by exploring the causal effects of eWOM attributes on hotel brand factor spreading through Brand Awareness (BA) and Brand Perceived Value (BV) and its consequences on Purchase Decisions (PD) in the hospitality context. Attribution Theory was extended to incorporate brand-mediated effects and crisis-specific factors. The study investigates the impact of VeWOM on consumer Purchase Decisions (PD) in terms of hotel room bookings in the British hospitality market, emphasizing the mediating role of brand-related constructs. Drawing on Attribution Theory, the research proposes a structural model to assess both direct and indirect pathways through which VeWOM influences behavioral outcomes. A stratified, non-probability sampling approach yielded 443 valid responses from hotel bookers who engaged with user-generated visual content prior to booking. The Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM) was employed to test the hypothesized relationships. The findings reveal that VeWOM significantly influences Brand Value (BV), eWOM Credibility, and Information Quality, which in turn shape consumer purchase behavior. Crucially, Brand Value emerges as a key mediating variable, bridging VeWOM and Purchase Decisions, while VeWOM alone does not directly affect booking behavior. Moreover, Brand Awareness showed no significant mediating effect. The study underscores the indirect attribution process in visual review contexts, demonstrating that the influence of VeWOM is channeled primarily through brand perception mechanisms rather than direct persuasion. These insights extend Attribution Theory by highlighting the distinct cognitive pathways activated by visual content compared to text-based reviews. Practically, the research suggests that hoteliers should focus on enhancing Brand Value via bundled offerings and relationship-based marketing rather than relying solely on visual appeal or awareness to drive bookings. The study contributes to the growing body of VeWOM literature by clarifying its nuanced effects on decision-making in digital hospitality environments. Full article

Background/Objectives: Anorexia nervosa (AN) is marked by cognitive deficits, particularly reduced mental flexibility and weak central coherence, which may sustain the core psychopathological symptoms. While cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) has shown efficacy in improving these cognitive processes in AN, evidence on computer-based CRT remains limited. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of integrating computer-assisted cognitive remediation therapy (CA-CRT) into standard nutritional rehabilitation (treatment as usual, TAU) to improve the targeted cognitive and psychological parameters among inpatients with AN in a more personalized and scalable way. Methods: A multicenter randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be conducted. At least 54 participants with a diagnosis of AN will be recruited at each site and randomized into either the experimental or control group after initial screening. The intervention will last five weeks and include 15 individual CA-CRT sessions alongside 10 individual CR sessions, delivered in addition to standard care. The primary and secondary outcomes will be assessed at the end of the intervention to evaluate the changes in cognitive flexibility, central coherence, and psychological functioning. Results: Participants receiving CA-CRT are expected to develop more flexible and integrated thinking styles and achieve greater improvements in clinical outcomes compared to those receiving standard care alone, supporting a more personalized therapeutic approach. Conclusions: These findings would underscore the feasibility and clinical value of incorporating CA-CRT into standard inpatient treatment for AN. By specifically targeting cognitive inflexibility and poor central coherence in a scalable, individualized format, CA-CRT may enhance treatment effectiveness and support the development of patient-centered interventions tailored to the cognitive profiles of individuals with AN. Full article

Introduction: Pandemic communication faces significant challenges due to the dynamic nature of disease outbreaks, societal influences, and evolving communication platforms. Effective non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) depend on robust health communication strategies. This study aims to develop a conceptual model to guide NPIs communication during pandemics, grounded in widely applied risk communication theories. Methods: Using Jabareen’s conceptual framework analysis method, this study synthesized interdisciplinary literature from public health, psychology, and risk communication. The method involves mapping data sources and concept categorization and integration. We examined Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication (CERC), the Social Amplification of Risk Framework (SARF), and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) to develop a comprehensive NPIs communication framework. Results: The Pandemic Behavioral Prevention Framework delineates pandemic communication into five phases: pre-crisis, initial event, maintenance, resolution, and evaluation. It emphasizes targeting vulnerable populations, addressing trust deficits, and leveraging effective communication channels. Key concepts such as self-efficacy, vicarious learning, and social risk amplification are integrated to enhance public adherence to NPIs. Conclusion: The framework bridges gaps in pandemic communication by integrating risk and health communication principles, fostering trust, and addressing social determinants of health. It highlights the importance of pre-crisis education and the utilization of social media for targeted messaging. Full article

This mixed-method study explores the impact of the Raising Climate Heroes: Ecological Game Camp on climate change knowledge, awareness, behavior, and emotional engagement among primary school students and adult participants. Designed with experiential and game-based learning approaches, the program aimed to enhance environmental literacy through interactive, nature-centered activities. The quantitative findings from pre- and post-tests revealed significant increases in climate-related knowledge, awareness, climate-friendly behavior, hope, and reductions in climate anxiety. All measurement tools demonstrated high internal consistency (α = 0.809–0.914), indicating strong reliability across both age groups. Qualitative data, analyzed using descriptive thematic analysis, showed high levels of participant satisfaction. The adults emphasized educational gains, professional relevance, and appreciation of academic facilitation. The children focused on enjoyment, outdoor experiences, and social interaction. Activities such as ecological experiments, composting, and collaborative cooking were most favored. The results suggest that combining cognitive and emotional elements through play and hands-on learning can effectively promote pro-environmental attitudes. This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating how climate education can be both engaging and transformative for diverse learner groups. Full article

Introduction: Myotonic dystrophies (DM) are progressive genetic disorders with multisystemic involvement, particularly affecting the muscular, respiratory, and neuropsychological systems. Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1), or Steinert’s disease, may lead to severe respiratory complications, including sleep-disordered breathing and hypercapnia, often requiring noninvasive ventilation to manage respiratory failure. However, adherence to NIV remains a major challenge, often influenced by cognitive and psychological factors such as apathy and depression. This study aims to investigate the presence of depression and SDB in patients with DM1 initiating NIV, and to evaluate factors influencing adherence to ventilatory support. Materials and Methods: We selected 13 adult patients (≥18 years) with diagnosis of Steinert’s disease with respiratory impairment who needed to start respiratory support. Dysphagia was assessed in all patients at baseline by a videofluoroscopic swallow study. Beck’s Depression Inventory II was administered for measuring the severity of depression. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment was used as a screening tool to detect signs of neurocognitive disorders. We evaluated adherence to NIV. Results: The study population presented with sleep-disordered breathing, as indicated by a median apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) of 24 events per hour (IQR: 14.2–34.5) and an oxygen desaturation index (ODI) of 25 events per hour (IQR: 18–33). Adherence to NIV was obtained in seven patients. No difference in baseline lung function was observed. Adherent subjects had moderate hypercapnia at baseline; pCO2 was 52 vs. 49 mmHg. Non-adherent patients showed a higher prevalence of depression with a median BDI-II score of 18 vs. 6 in adherent patients. The findings highlight that psychological factors, especially depression, play a crucial role in adherence to NIV. Interestingly, depression was not linked to initial respiratory measurements but showed a significant association with nocturnal oxygen desaturation. This suggests that relying solely on clinical and respiratory assessments may not be adequate to predict or improve treatment adherence. Conclusions: Incorporating psychological evaluations and addressing mental health issues, such as depression, are essential steps to enhance NIV compliance and overall DM1 patient outcomes. A multidisciplinary approach combining respiratory and psycho-emotional interventions is crucial for effective disease management. Full article

Neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI), represent an escalating global health and economic challenge. In the quest for disease-modifying interventions, natural polyphenols—most notably curcumin, the principal bioactive compound of Curcuma longa—have attracted considerable interest due to their pleiotropic neuroprotective effects. This narrative review critically synthesizes findings from a selection of peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2025, chosen for their relevance to curcumin’s molecular mechanisms and translational potential. Curcumin’s complex chemical structure confers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and epigenetic modulatory properties; however, its clinical application is limited by poor oral bioavailability. Mechanistically, curcumin attenuates oxidative stress and suppresses key inflammatory mediators, including nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Additionally, it modulates apoptosis, inhibits amyloid-beta aggregation, and enhances cellular quality control processes such as autophagy and mitophagy, while upregulating neurotrophic factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Preclinical studies employing rodent models of AD, PD, and ischemic stroke have demonstrated curcumin’s dose-dependent neuroprotective efficacy, with improved outcomes observed using nanoparticle-based delivery systems. Early-phase clinical trials further support curcumin’s favorable safety profile and potential cognitive benefits, although challenges remain regarding pharmacokinetics, formulation standardization, and therapeutic reproducibility. Future directions include the development of advanced drug delivery platforms, combinatory therapeutic regimens, and personalized medicine approaches integrating curcumin within multifaceted neurotherapeutic strategies. Collectively, this narrative review highlights curcumin as a promising multi-targeted candidate for combating neurodegenerative diseases, while emphasizing the need for further translational and clinical validation. Full article

Background: Intuitive inquiry meditation (Can-Hua-Tou) is a unique mental practice which differs from relaxation-based practices by continuously demanding intuitive inquiry. It emphasizes the doubt-driven self-interrogation, also referred to as Chan/Zen meditation. Nonetheless, its electrophysiological signature remains poorly characterized. Methods: We recorded 128-channel EEG from 20 male Buddhist monks (5–28 years Can-Hua-Tou experience) and 18 male novice lay practitioners (<0.5 year) during three counter-balanced eyes-closed blocks: Zen inquiry meditation (ZEN), a phonological control task silently murmuring “A-B-C-D” (ABCD), and passive resting state (REST). Power spectral density was computed for alpha (8–12 Hz), beta (12–30 Hz) and gamma (30–45 Hz) bands and mapped across the scalp. Mixed-design ANOVAs and electrode-wise tests were corrected with false discovery rate (p < 0.05). Results: Alpha power increased globally with eyes closed, but condition- or group-specific effects did not survive FDR correction, indicating comparable relaxation in both cohorts. In contrast, monks displayed a robust beta augmentation, showing significantly higher beta over parietal-occipital leads than novices across all conditions. The most pronounced difference lay in the gamma band: monks exhibited trait-like fronto-parietal gamma elevations in all three conditions, with additional, though sub-threshold, increases during ZEN. Novices showed negligible beta or gamma modulation across tasks. No significant group × condition interaction emerged after correction, yet only experts expressed concurrent beta/gamma amplification during meditative inquiry. Conclusions: Long-term Can-Hua-Tou practice is associated with frequency-specific neural adaptations—stable high-frequency synchrony and state-dependent beta enhancement—consistent with Buddhist constructs of citta-ekāgratā (one-pointed concentration) and vigilance during self-inquiry. Unlike mindfulness styles that accentuate alpha/theta, Chan inquiry manifests an oscillatory profile dominated by beta–gamma dynamics, underscoring that different contemplative strategies sculpt distinct neurophysiological phenotypes. These findings advance contemplative neuroscience by linking intensive cognitive meditation to enduring high-frequency cortical synchrony. Future research integrating cross-frequency coupling analyses, source localization, and behavioral correlates of insight will further fully delineate the mechanisms underpinning this advanced contemplative expertise. Full article

This study verified the effects of a Virtual Reality (VR) play program on young children’s playfulness using a Solomon four-group experimental design. Targeting 120 children aged four and five in South Korea, a 10-week, child-friendly non-immersive VR program was conducted, measuring five subdomains of playfulness based on Barnett’s framework: physical, social, and cognitive spontaneity, manifestation of enjoyment, and sense of humor. Statistical analysis revealed that the VR program had a significant positive effect across all subdomains of playfulness. The biggest influence on playfulness was sense of humor, followed by physical spontaneity and social spontaneity with an overall effect size of 0.290. Furthermore, the lack of interaction effects with the pretest confirmed the study’s internal validity, proving the VR program was the clear causal factor. These results provide empirical evidence that VR play can enhance the emotional, cognitive, and social development of young children. This study offers a practical basis for integrating VR-based play into early childhood education curricula and suggests its potential to improve peer relationships, confidence, and self-expression. Future research is needed, including the development of content to enhance cognitive spontaneity and longitudinal studies. Full article

In recent years, gut–brain axis signaling has been recognized as an essential factor modifying behavior, mood, cognition, and cellular viability under physiological and pathological conditions. Consequently, the intestinal microbiome has become a potential therapeutic target in neurological and psychiatric disorders. The microbiota-derived metabolite of tryptophan (Trp), indole-3-propionic acid (IPA), was discovered to target a number of molecular processes and to impact brain function. In this review, we outline the key mechanisms by which IPA may affect neuronal activity and survival and provide an update on the evidence supporting the neuroprotective action of the compound in various experimental paradigms. Accumulating data indicates that IPA is a free radical scavenger, a ligand of aryl hydrocarbon receptors (AhR) and pregnane X receptors (PXR), and an anti-inflammatory molecule. IPA decreases the synthesis of the proinflammatory nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and other cytokines, reduces the generation of the NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, and enhances the synthesis of neurotrophic factors. Furthermore, produced in the gut, or administered orally, IPA boosts the central levels of kynurenic acid (KYNA), a neuroprotective metabolite of Trp. IPA reduces the release of proinflammatory molecules in the gut, breaking the gut–inflammation–brain vicious cycle, which otherwise leads to neuronal loss. Moreover, as a molecule that easily enters central compartment, IPA may directly impact brain function and cellular survival. Overall, the gathered data confirms neuroprotective features of IPA, and supports its potential use in high-risk populations, in order to delay the onset and ameliorate the course of neurodegenerative disorders and cognitive impairment. Clinical trials evaluating IPA as a promising therapeutic add-on, able to slow down the progress of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease and to limit the morphological and behavioral consequences of ischemic stroke, are urgently needed. Full article

Social Communication Disorder (SCD) involves persistent verbal and non-verbal communication difficulties, significantly impacting children and adolescents’ social interactions. Traditional interventions, while valuable, face practical limitations, including difficulties replicating real-world social contexts and low engagement among some learners. This paper examines Virtual Reality (VR) as an innovative intervention tool for SCD through a comprehensive review of empirical studies (2010–2024). Analysis of 11 peer-reviewed studies, encompassing both autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-specific and broader SCD populations, revealed five key themes being discussed in the current literature: usability and acceptability, social skills training, gaze and attention tracking, measurement and assessment, and applications in inclusive education. Our findings demonstrate VR’s potential as a mediating tool between therapeutic interventions and real-world social interactions, offering controlled yet naturalistic environments that enable safe, structured practice while maintaining engagement. The alignment with cognitive science principles enhances learning processes through effective management of cognitive demands. Building on these findings, we propose implementation strategies for educational and therapeutic settings, addressing design considerations, delivery methods, and outcome evaluation. This synthesis advances the understanding of VR as an innovative, scalable approach to supporting social communication development in children and adolescents. Full article

Background/Objectives: Vitamin D deficiency is a global epidemic. In certain populations, such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), low nutritional intake of vitamin D, inadequate exposure to sunlight, and cultural dress codes can lead to deficiencies in blood vitamin D levels, predisposing them to musculoskeletal disorders, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. There are also notable associations between vitamin D deficiency, physical inactivity, and lower cognitive performance. The aim of this study was to determine how vitamin D status may affect physical inactivity and cognitive performance in a young UAE population. Methods: Primary data were obtained on vitamin D status, cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition, and blood profiles of students in the UAE. Following initial assessment, a cohort of vitamin D-deficient/insufficient individuals participated in a 10-week physical activity intervention (Group A), whilst another cohort was supplemented with 5000 IU vitamin D3 daily and an exercise intervention (Group B). Both groups underwent physiological and biochemical profiling, and the effects of vitamin D supplementation on cognitive function were assessed. Statistical analysis included paired samples t-tests between pre- and post-intervention values and the Wilcoxon signed rank test for within-group comparisons and the Mann–Whitney U test for between-group comparisons. Results: The findings suggest that physical exercise alone improves overall cardiorespiratory fitness, as shown by an increased VO₂ max (p < 0.05), while vitamin D supplementation combined with physical exercise did not significantly improve fitness over a 10-week period (p > 0.05). However, vitamin D combined with physical exercise significantly improved cognitive performance in Group B only, specifically in working memory, verbal memory, and cognitive flexibility (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study highlights the need for targeted interventions such as physical exercise and vitamin D supplementation to be conducted at an early stage in order to improve physical and cognitive function and reduce the risk of disease. Full article

Driven by the new wave of technological revolution and industrial transformation, firms are accelerating strategic change to gain new competitive advantages. Situated within a complex adaptive system, firms must adapt to highly dynamic and uncertain external environments by adjusting executive cognitive structures, reconfiguring resources and capabilities, and strengthening collaboration with industrial ecosystem elements; hence, digital strategic change is characterized by continuous evolution. Using a sample of Chinese A-share listed firms from 2015 to 2023, this study develops a “cognition–capability–strategy” pathway model grounded in upper echelons theory and dynamic capabilities theory to examine how executive cognitive styles, i.e., cognitive flexibility and cognitive complexity, drive digital strategic change via absorptive capacity and how environmental dynamism moderates these relationships. The findings show that executive cognition, as a decision node in strategic change, can dynamically adjust firms’ strategic paths by activating absorptive capacity in rapidly changing external information environments; environmental dynamism differentially affects the two cognitive styles. Heterogeneity tests further indicate that the role of executive cognition varies significantly with regional digital economy development levels, firm life cycle, and industry factor intensities. The study reveals how firms can respond to high environmental uncertainty through cognition–strategy alignment and resource capability reconfiguration in a complex adaptive system, providing theoretical references and practical insights for emerging economies to advance digital transformation and enhance competitiveness. Full article

The school and university periods represent a critical phase in individuals’ cognitive, emotional, and behavioural development. Numerous lifestyle factors can influence executive functions and high-level cognitive processes crucial for learning and behavioural adaptation. Sleep and physical activity are two variables that influence executive functions and that could be modified through behavioural interventions. Numerous scientific studies suggest that adequate sleep quality and duration are linked to improved cognitive performance. Similarly, regular physical exercise correlates with neurocognitive benefits. However, these two aspects of lifestyle are often compromised in students, resulting in attention difficulties, reduced working memory, and difficulty in inhibitory control, all aspects of non-optimal executive functioning. Even though the scientific literature separately explores “sleep and executive functions” and “physical activity and executive functions”, few studies have integrated the two factors to assess their combined effect on executive functioning, particularly within the student population. The present narrative review aims to outline an integrated theoretical framework of existing scientific literature and to identify any knowledge gaps that may guide future research. It could provide relevant insights for designing preventive or promotional interventions to enhance students’ cognitive performance and mental well-being. Full article