bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated Spray Deposition of Liquid Metal: Process Assessment Towards Scalability and Reliability for Stretchable Electronics
Authors: Krack Maximilian , Sangma Rathul Nengminza , Purnal Lennert , Sewlikar Parth Vinayakrao , Reenars Dieter , Sahraeeazartamar Fatemeh , Brancart Joost , Assche Guy Van , De Graeve Iris , Hauffman Tom , Daenen Michael , Terryn Seppe , Vanderborght Bram , Rai Monika , Deferme Wim
Published: January 2025

Liquid metal stretchable electronics (LMSE) offer remarkable stretchability, softness, and self-healing properties, making them ideal for smart wearables and soft robotics. A key fabrication method involves spray deposition of LM into patterned structures. However, reliance on manual airbrush techniques has hindered understanding of how spray parameters impact LM deposition, limiting scalability and reliability. This work addresses these challenges by using an innovative automated spray coater (ASC), which provides precise control over deposition. For the first time, the ASC enables a systematic investigation of how spray parameters—such as flow rate, pressure, and spraying distance—affect LMSE properties like reliability, uniformity, and hysteresis. We find that rougher coatings improve yield (nearly 100\%), but compromise long-term reliability. Additionally, finer linewidth patterns (0.25 mm) fail earlier in cyclic testing and show reduced self-healing capabilities compared to wider lines ($>0.5 mm$). The ASC's capabilities are demonstrated through the fabrication of LMSE devices, including a 16-LED array and a large wearable strain sensor (70 × 150 mm) for human motion capture. This work provides crucial insights into LM deposition and highlights relevant applications, advancing the development of scalable and reliable stretchable electronics.
Identification of Prognostic Signature Genes and Immune Microenvironment Features Associated with Lymph Node Metastasis in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Sun Yifan , Ding Meng , Sun Jiyuan , Zhang Qing , Cao Wenming , Chen Wei , Wang Xinping , Diao Wenli , Guo Hongqian
Published: January 2025

Lymph node (LN) metastasis is related to poor prognosis in bladder cancer (BLCA). To explore novel signature genes associated with LN metastasis in BLCA, we identified 17 signature genes with non-zero coefficients to construct the prognostic model, which demonstrated a prognostic accuracy with an area under the curve of 0.706 at 1 year, 0.701 at 3 years, and 0.688 at 5 years. EPN2, CYP4F12 and especially FKBP10, three of the above signature genes, exhibited significant upregulation in BLCA with LN metastasis, thereby contributing to the unfavorable survival of BLCA patients. Meanwhile, we validated that FKBP10 exerts a biological function in bladder cancer metastasis through cytological experiments. Moreover, by utilizing the CIBERSORT algorithm and immunofluorescence assay, we identified and validated a significant upregulation of M0 macrophages, alongside a downregulation of activated NK cells and CD8+ T cells, which were associated with the presence of LN metastasis in BLCA. Conclusively, These results will provide new insights for future improvements in diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis evaluation for BLCA patients with LN metastasis.
Optimal Harvesting of a Predator-Prey System with Additional Food for Predator in Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Sarkar Moulipriya , Sharma Swarnali , Sarkar Sudipta , Chakraborty Dipankar
Published: January 2025

The consideration of a predator-prey system that follows the Rosenzweig-MacArthur model is done in this article. The logistic growth of the prey population is taken into account where the predator population is not present. For the prey population, the functional response of the predator is of Holling type-II. A stock of an additional food term is made available to the predator species. The stability of the equilibrium points are analyzed together with the positivity and existence of the solutions. A Lyapunov function that is befitting is established for the study of the global stability of the system. In real life, due to incomplete information, the parameters involved in the system are imprecise in nature. So, the discussion of optimal taxation policy under fuzzy environment is examined to make the model more realistic. We take into consideration a few hypothetical data sets and verify them numerically.
Association between low-dose aspirin and prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): The mediating role of systemic immune inflammation index
Authors: Dai Dandan , Shi Jiejun , Ding Chaochao , Ren Jianmin , Xu Hongbin
Published: January 2025

Background
COPD is a respiratory disease with significant inflammatory characteristics. Low-dose aspirin is widely used as an anti-inflammatory medicine. However, the impact of low-dose aspirin on COPD is unclear. This article aims to investigate the association between low-dose aspirin and the prevalence of COPD.
Methods
A cohort study was conducted based on United States population data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data (2011–2012, 2013–2014, 2015–2016, 2017–2020, and 2021–2023). We examined pairwise associations between systemic immune inflammation index (SII), low-dose aspirin, and COPD prevalence by logistic regression analysis, the restricted cubic spline (RCS), and mediation analyses.
Results
In 5,668 people, 68% of them took low-dose aspirin. We found higher levels of SII in participants with COPD compared to those without COPD. Low-dose aspirin was significantly associated with COPD prevalence (β=-0.015, 95%CI=-0.026, -0.003, p < 0.001) and SII (β = 0.036, 95% CI = = 0.022, 0.050, p ≤ 0.001), even after considering a wide range of potential confounders (e.g., age, sex, race). SII was nonlinearly associated with COPD. SII mediated a marginal portion (PM, -0.039130; ACME = -0.000552, [95% CI = -0.001042, 0], p = 0.01) of the potential effects of low-dose aspirin on COPD prevalence.
Conclusions
Our research showed that SII, low-dose aspirin, and depression are pairwise correlated. Low-dose aspirin may decrease the risk of COPD, and Prophylactic use of low-dose aspirin may be advised in individuals at high risk of COPD.
The Risk Analysis of Cart Development Based on Dynamic Bayesian Networks
Authors: Liu Junjun , Yu Jingfei
Published: January 2025

To address the issues of multiple uncertainties, complex structures, and unpredictability during the development of the trolley, this paper proposes a risk analysis method for trolley development based on dynamic Bayesian networks. First, based on extensive relevant literature and applying rough set reduction theory for optimization, a risk factor checklist with 5 primary indicators and 16 secondary indicators for the trolley development is constructed. Next, a dynamic Bayesian network model is established by introducing the time dimension. Fuzzy theory and expert scoring are used to quantify the probabilities of network nodes, and the Leaky Noisy-or Gate expansion model is applied to correct the conditional probabilities. Finally, the dynamic risk analysis of trolley development is performed using the bidirectional inference function of the dynamic Bayesian network. The time-series variation curve of the trolley development risk is obtained through case analysis. By reverse reasoning, the key risk factors for the occurrence of the trolley development risk are identified, and corresponding risk response strategies are proposed. The research results provide a new approach for analyzing and effectively controlling the risks associated with trolley development.
Development and validation of a prognostic nomogram for predicting overall survival in patients with large retroperitoneal liposarcoma: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Deng Huan , Lu Zhenhua , Wang Bingrui , wang Yajie , Xiao Lin , Pan Yisheng
Published: January 2025

Objective
This study aimed to show the clinicopathological characteristics of large retroperitoneal liposarcoma (RLS) and to developed a customized nomogram model for those patients.
Methods
A total of 1735 patients diagnosed with RLS were selected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Among them, 1113 patients with a maximum tumor diameter greater than 150 mm were included for further analysis. Nomogram models were developed based on lasso and multivariate cox regression analyses. The 166 patients collected from the same period at First Medical Center, Chinese People Liberation Army General Hospital (CPLAGH), were used for external validations. The model was further validated through multiple dimensions.
Results
Larger tumor size in RLS was associated with worse survival outcomes (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.66, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.53–0.81, P < 0.05). Lasso and Cox regression analyses consistently identified age, TNM stage, occurrence pattern, histology, and surgery as important prognostic factors for OS. The constructed model demonstrated robust predictive performance, with better time-ROC (Time-Dependent Receiver Operating Characteristic) for 1-year (83.1%), 3-year (83.8%), and 5-year (81.4%) survival in training cohort. The concordance index (C-index) was approximately 0.80 in both the training and validation cohorts, reflecting excellent discriminatory ability of the model. Survival risk stratification analysis revealed significant differences in survival outcomes between the groups (HR = 4.12 [3.31–5.12], P < 0.001 in training cohort). Decision curve analysis (DCA) confirmed that the nomogram provided greater net benefits across a range of threshold probabilities.
Conclusion
This study identified important prognostic factors for survival in patients with large RLS and developed a reliable nomogram for predicting OS. The model’s strong predictive performance supports its use in personalized treatment strategies, improving prognosis assessment and clinical decision-making for these patients.
IRMA: Machine learning-based harmonization of 18F-FDG PET brain scans in multi-center studies
Authors: Lövdal Sofie , Veen Rick van , Carli Giulia , Renken Remco , Shiner Tamara , Bregman Noa , Orad Rotem , Arnaldi Dario , Orso Beatrice , Morbelli Silvia , Mattioli Pietro , Leenders Klaus , Dierckx Rudi , Meles Sanne , Biehl Michael
Published: January 2025

Purpose: Center-specific effects in PET brain scans arise due to differences in technical and procedural aspects. This restricts the merging of data between centers and introduces source-specific bias. Methods: We demonstrate the use of the recently proposed machine learning method Iterated Relevance Matrix Analysis (IRMA) for harmonization of center-specific effects in brain 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET scans. The center difference is learned by applying IRMA on PCA-based feature vectors of healthy controls (HC), resulting in a subspace V, representing information not comparable between centers, and the remaining subspace U, where no center differences are present. In this proof-of-concept study, we demonstrate the properties of the method using data from four centers. After center-harmonization, a Generalized Matrix Learning Vector Quantization (GMLVQ) model was trained to discriminate between Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia with Lewy Bodies. Results: At the initial IRMA iteration, the system was able to determine the center origin of the four HC cohorts almost perfectly. The method required six iterations, corresponding to a six-dimensional subspace V, to determine the entire center difference. An uncorrected disease classification model was highly biased to center-specific effects, creating a falsely inflated performance when applying internal (cross-) validation. The cross-validation performance of the center-harmonized model remained high, while it generalized significantly better to unseen test cohorts. Furthermore, the framework is highly transparent, providing analytic reconstructions of the correction and visualizations of the data in voxel space. Conclusion: IRMA can be used to learn and disregard center-specific information in features extracted from brain 18F-FDG PET scans, while retaining disease-specific information.
NOW HELPFUL IS PLASMAPHERESIS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE LIVER FAILURE IN ADULTS
Authors:   Resident Gastroenterology PEMH Rawalpindi., Batool Maria , Iqbal Wajid ,   Pak Emirates Military Hospital Rawalpindi., Hussain Shujaat ,   Gastroenterologist PIMS Hospital Rawalpindi., Ullah Sameed Samid ,   Pak Emirates Military Hospital Rawalpindi., Hafeez Janjua Taimoor ,   Pak Emirates Military Hospital Rawalpindi., Arqam Tariq Rubab ,   Pak Emirates Military Hospital Rawalpindi.
Published: January 2025

Objective: To compare the efficacy of plasmapheresis against other modalities of management in patients of acute liver failure

Study Type: Cross-sectional Study

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Gastroenterology, Pak Emirates Military Hospital Rawalpindi, from June 2023 to July 2024

Methodology: Patients of either sex between 18 years to 75 years of age meeting the acute liver failure criteria were enrolled into the study. Patients with liver failure due to pre-exiting liver disease, septicaemia, and heart failure were excluded from the study. The detailed history and clinical information were taken from all individuals after enrolment. The blood sample for serum alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, prothrombin time, international normalised ratio, bilirubin, and creatinine were taken pre- and post- plasmapheresis sessions. The plasmapheresis was done until clinical improvement was achieved. The data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 25.0.

Results:A total of one hundred and seventy-six (n=176) were included in this study with median age of 47.00 (36.00-57.00) years. There were 53 (30.11%) females and 123 (69.89%) males. The median pre-plasmapheresis serum ALT was 602.00 (455.00-764.00) while post-plasmapheresis it was 324.00 (192.00-463.00). The median pre-plasmapheresis serum bilirubin was 34.00 (25.00-43.00) while post-plasmapheresis it was29.00 (21.00-39.00). The international normalised ratio was 24.00 (21.00-26.00) and 19.00 (15.00-20.00) pre and post plasmapheresis session. The improvement in liver markers was statistically significant (p<0.001) post plasmapheresis.

Conclusion:The plasmapheresis sessions were very effective in improving the outcome in patients of acute liver failure.
EXPLORING THE TANTRIC FIGURE IN SANGHARSH: A CINEMATIC INTERPRETATION
Authors: Chakrabarti Reema , Al Mamun Sarkar Shah
Published: January 2025

This article delves into the multifaceted depiction of the Tantric figure in the film Sangharsh (1999), focusing on its cultural, cinematic, and popular dimensions. It would primarily examine the presentation of the antagonist figure, Lajja Shankar Pandey who is portrayed as a Tantric practitioner engaging in human sacrifice to gain immortality and supernatural powers. By analysing the films narrative and portrayal of character, this study scrutinizes the cultural significance of the Tantric cult, and its representation as a source of fear and fascination. Also, it tries to connect this figure to its Western counterpartâ€”the blood-sucking vampire who represents the cultural conflicts of class, power, and gender. Exploring similar aspect, this article would also focus on how the films depiction of Tantra aligns with broader cinematic trends in India, where mysticism and spirituality are often intertwined with moral and ethical dilemmas. Eventually, the article argues that Sangharsh presents a layered interpretation of the Tantric figure, blending cultural aspects and its cinematic dramatization to explore themes of power, mortality, and the supernatural.
A bibliometric analysis of the economic effects of using artificial intelligence and ChatGPT tools in higher education institutions
Authors: Vorontsova Anna , Tarasenko Svitlana , Duranowski Wojciech , Durasiewicz Arkadiusz , Soss John , Bilovol Artem
Published: January 2025

One of the main challenges in higher education management is the complexity of resource optimization and increasing volumes of data, which limits the efficiency and accuracy of decision-making. The application of artificial intelligence can address these issues.The present study aims to identify the key trends, knowledge gaps, and opportunities for further research into the economic effects of using artificial intelligence and ChatGPT tools in higher education. For this purpose, a systematic literature review was conducted to identify and screen the scientific articles related to the topic of this study indexed in Web of Science and Scopus from 1986 to 2024. A total of 234 articles were selected, all demonstrating positive growth both in scholarly output and citation count. The study identified the key contributors to scientific research on this topic by region (the United States, China, and India). It concluded that the relevant research centers are still at an early stage of their development. Based on bibliometric clusters formed by co-occurrence relations, three main areas of research were defined: 1) artificial intelligence in education for decision-making; 2) process automation and digital transformation in educational institutions; 3) artificial intelligence technologies and their application in education. The study highlights the main areas of economic effects of artificial intelligence and ChatGPT tools in higher education, including reducing administrative costs, saving time for teachers and students, and improving the quality and accessibility of educational process.
AcknowledgmentsThe publication is part of the research topic “Economic Basics of Technology Diffusion into the National Economy of Ukraine Considering Best International Practices” (№0124U003482).
Discussion Paper
Authors: Ahmed Tanvir , Arora Sudipti , Bhavsar Dhruv , Carden Kirsty , Bharmal Arwa , Dwivedi Aditi , Jahan Hasin , Kaupp Rémi , Mansuri Aasim , Medlicott Kate , Mumba Natasha , Narayan Abishek , Pireh Hezekiah , Ronoh Patrick , Willetts Juliet , Yadav Upasana
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this discussion paper is to build momentum and to move from ideas to action on climate-resilient sanitation. The paper draws on discussions held at the IWA Development Congress Kigali Workshop on Climate Resilience and Urban Sanitation (December 2023) and the Global South Academic Conclave on Climate and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) and climate linkages held at CEPT University (February 2024). Building on current strategies and ensuring avoidance of maladaptation, the paper lays out short- and long-term priorities and concludes with six key messages pertaining to inclusion, mainstreaming, co-benefits, financing, research and innovation, and considering sanitation chains within urban water cycles.
Potential Antibacterial of Leaf Sirih Merah Against Enterococcus Faecalis ATCC 29212 Bacteria
Authors: Yuliana Trisna , Meliani Devi , Kurnia Dikdik
Published: January 2025

Background:

Dental root canal failure is a disease caused by gram-positive bacteria,
Enterococcus faecalis. The disease is caused by the bacterial cell wall consisting of a peptidoglycan
layer that protects the bacteria from internal osmotic pressure. Peptidoglycan biosynthesis
includes many enzymes, such as MurA, Penicillin-binding protein (PBP), and SrtA. Herbal
plants are a source of bioactive compounds, including antibacterial agents. There is information
that red betel leaves, also known as Piper crocatum, contain active substances such as
flavonoids, terpenoids, and steroids. However, there is no additional information on the antibacterial
properties of P. crocatum and the molecular mechanisms that affect the cell wall of E. faecalis
ATCC 29212 bacteria.

Objective:

This study aims to determine the antibacterial activity of the extract in vitro, screen
and study the antibacterial compounds of red betel leaves against oral pathogenic bacteria, namely
E.faecalis ATCC 29212 through molecular docking.

Methods:

The n-hexan:ea (9:1) fraction of P. crocatum extract was tested for inhibition zones
against E. faecalis ATCC 29212 bacteria, fractions that had positive results were then identified
using the LC-MS method. The LC-MS resulting compounds were tested using In Silico.

Results:

Antibacterial in the n-hexane: ethyl acetate (9:1) fraction of Red Betel Leaf has the best
concentration of 10% with a moderate inhibition zone category. LC-MS test results identified compounds
including Longicamphenylone, m/z 207, Nootkatone m/z 219, and Tridecanal m/z 221. Molecular
interactions between these compounds with target proteins, namely MurA, PBP, and SrtA,
show lower binding affinity values than natural ligands and positive controls for each protein.

Conclusion:

Nootkatone compounds demonstrated potential as MurA and PBP inhibitors, while
Longicamphenylone compounds showed potential as SrtA inhibitors. Both compounds have the
potential to inhibit peptidoglycan biosynthesis and bacterial cell wall formation through docking
simulations.

other:

So that both compounds have the potential to inhibit peptidoglycan biosynthesis and bacterial cell wall formation through docking simulations.
Fe3O4-viral-like Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticle(Fe3O4-vMSN)-Sustained Release of Lenvatinib for Targeted Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xue , Xu Tianzhao , Song Hui , Zhou Lanmei , Li Xinyi , Li Guangli , Liu Xinghui
Published: January 2025

Background:

Lenvatinib is an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor that selectively inhib-its receptors involved in tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth. It is an emerging first-line treatment agent for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there is no intravenous ad-ministration of Lenvatinib.

Aims:

This study aimed to construct nanocomposites that can efficiently support Lenvatinib and target liver cancer tissues and cells.

Objective:

In this study, ferric oxide-viral-like mesoporous silica nanoparticles-folic acid (Fe3O4-vMSN-FA) nanocomposites loaded with Lenvatinib were constructed, and their anti-hepatocellular carcinoma effects were evaluated.

Methods:

The hydrothermal method was used to synthesize ferric oxide (Fe3O4). Ferric ox-ide-viral-like mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Fe3O4-vMSN) were synthesized using a two-phase method. Then, Fe3O4-vMSN was modified with folic acid (Fe3O4-vMSN-FA) to better target tumor cells.

Results:

The experimental data showed that Fe3O4-vMSN-FA nanocomposites were suc-cessfully synthesized and could be loaded with Lenvatinib (Len@ Fe3O4-vMSN-FA). Fe3O4-vMSN-FA had good stability and biocompatibility, and it can release the loaded Len-vatinib faster in an acidic environment (pH 5.5). CCK8 assay and flow cytometry showed that HepG2 cells in the Len@ Fe3O4-vMSN group had the lowest cell viability and the high-est apoptosis rate, confirming the anticancer properties of Len@ Fe3O4-vMSN-FA in vitro. In addition, transwell experiments showed that the migration and invasion ability of HepG2 cells in the Len@ Fe3O4-vMSN-FA group were significantly inhibited. In vivo fluorescence imaging in mice confirmed the enhanced tumor-targeting ability of Fe3O4-vMSN-FA. The tumor volume of the Len@ Fe3O4-vMSN-FA group was significantly reduced, and there was no significant effect on body weight. Moreover, serum liver function index (ALT and AST) and HE staining showed that Len@ Fe3O4-vMSN-FA did not cause obvious damage to organ tissue.

Conclusion:

Len@ Fe3O4-vMSN-FA has a good anti-liver cancer effect. Fe3O4-vMSN-FA can be used as an alternative platform for MSCs for drug delivery, providing more options for cancer therapy.
Foreign Contaminants Target Brain Health
Authors: Agarwal Uma , Pannu Arzoo , Tonk Rajiv Kumar
Published: January 2025

Neurodisease, caused by undesired substances, can lead to mental health conditions
like depression, anxiety and neurocognitive problems like dementia. These substances can be referred
to as contaminants that can cause damage, corruption, and infection or reduce brain functionality.
Contaminants, whether conceptual or physical, have the ability to disrupt many processes.
These observations motivate us to investigate contaminants and neurotoxicity collaboratively.
This study investigates the link between pollutants and neuro-disease, examining transmission
pathways and categorization. It also provides information on resources, causes, and
challenges to minimize contamination risks. Contamination may cause various neuro-diseases,
including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, multi-system atrophy, Huntington's, autism spectrum disorder,
psychiatric disorder, dementia, meningitis, encephalitis, schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression.
The negative effects depend on the nature and extent of exposure. A comprehensive literature
search was conducted using databases such as PubMed and Scopus, focusing on studies
published till 2024. Studies were selected based on their examination of the relationship between
environmental contaminants and brain health, emphasizing transmission pathways and the resulting
neurological outcomes. Findings indicate that contaminants can penetrate the blood-brain
barrier (BBB) via nasal, gut, and auditory routes, triggering harmful neurophysiological processes.
This review highlights the urgent need for increased global awareness, policy interventions,
and preventive measures to mitigate the long-term impacts of environmental contaminants on
brain health, particularly in emerging nations.
micro-RNA 451-a as a Circulating Biomarker for Neuroblastoma
Authors: Gupta Aditya Kumar , Ahmad Aijaz , Kakker Disha , Meena Jagdish Prasad , Majhi Ravi Kumar , Jan Ambreen , Seth Rachna , Iyer Venkateshawran , Mallick Saumyaranjan
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

Micro ribonucleic acids (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that
modulate the expression of various genes. They have an important role in cancer pathogenesis.
Differential expression of multiple miRNAs have been used as potential diagnostic and prognostic
markers.

Methods:

Various cancers have lately been employed as therapeutic targets. This prospective
study included untreated pediatric neuroblastoma (NB) patients. In the discovery phase, global
miRNA profiling was done using next-generation sequencing (NGS) on biopsy tissue samples of
NB patients. In this phase, the top expressing miRNA was identified and chosen for further validation
as circulating miRNA in blood samples of a different set of NB patients by real-time polymerase
chain reaction (PCR).

Results:

Based on the read counts on the global miRNA profiling in the discovery phase, we
found that the miRNA that consistently had high reads across the majority of the NB samples
were miRNA 451-a, 19b-3p, 106b-5p, and 21-5p. Of these, we selected miRNA 451-a and 19-b
for the validation phase of the study as they had consistent overexpression. In the validation
phase, the expression of the circulating miRNA 451-a in the blood was found to be higher. The
average value for the relative fold (RF) expression for miRNA 451-a was 1.52.

Conclusion:

miRNA 451-a is overexpressed both in the cancer tissue and the blood of NB patients.
It can serve as a potential diagnostic marker. Further studies can elucidate its role in the
pathogenesis of NB and it can have utility as a therapeutic target.
Vernacular architecture: (Re) Visiting the concept
Authors: LAMZAH Assia
Published: January 2025

Abstract. Vernacular architecture refers to buildings produced using local materials and construction techniques that reflect specific social and cultural contexts and environments. It is widely described as an architecture that is the product of the geographical, social, economic, and cultural contexts and is mostly presented as eco-friendly, functional, and community-driven. Moreover, vernacular architecture is constructed with the empirical accumulated knowledge of the building masters using local resources and bears important lessons about the cultural, social, and technical contexts that produced it. Such buildings and landscapes are immovable cultural heritage assets that reflect the lifestyle of the region where they are located. However, in our postmodern world, where our understanding of the local has changed, and the spatial constructs of culture are shifting under the pressure of globalization and global networks --both physical and virtual-- the concept of vernacular architecture is far from being unproblematic. The meaning, scale, and symbolism of vernacular architecture are not universally agreed. Recent literature shed light on some of its problematic aspects, such as its multiple and shifting meanings, and more importantly its exclusion from the mainstream discourse of architecture and its history. Vernacular architecture has been widely understood as the architectural language of the people; the non-experts. To some extent, Architecture started to be seen not only as different from vernacular but as superior.
The present paper provides a critical reading of the content and evolution of the concept of vernacular architecture since the rise of Western modernism. It analyses two main aspects of the concept of vernacular architecture. The first aspect is its meaning and its evolution over time: does it mean local? traditional? authentic? has this meaning changed over time? How? It argues that its meaning is dynamic and that the vernacular is more about the process than the final architectural result. The second aspect is the place of vernacular architecture in the mainstream of the history of architecture. Knowing the power of conventions and their system of authority, the paper critically analyses the vernacular as other than official, professional, real Architecture. Finally, the paper provides new methodologies and perspectives on the definition, understanding, and analysis of vernacular architecture.
The intellectual representations of vernacular architecture through the surveys of the MNATP, 1941-2001
Authors: FIRRERI Frédéric
Published: January 2025

Abstract. This article discusses a succession of two national surveys on rural architecture conducted by the National Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions at the Trocadéro in Paris between 1941 and 1948, and then between 1968 and 1988, which gave rise to the publication of a collection named L’Architecture rurale française, encompassing twenty-three volumes published from 1977 to 2001[1]. These surveys shed light on the relationship between the peasant in their territory and the scholar in their institution the scholar in the territory and the peasant in the institution. Within this dialectic, one can understand how the production of knowledge about the territory gradually became institutionalized and how the tools of knowledge, work methods, and publication of works can today constitute a part of the history of French rural architecture. Learning from territories therefore means understanding our scientific and institutional mechanisms shaped by scholarly representations. It is through various transformations of these representations that one can detect an intellectual, institutional, and political trajectory. These mutations are revealed by the evolution of the semantic field mobilized by its actors, changes in individuals involved in the surveys, and the shifting economic policies that shaped these studies.
Cultural revitalization and tourist conversion of historical monuments: The cases of the ancient medinas of Fez and Tunis
Authors: BOUKIL Mehdi
Published: January 2025

Abstract. This article explores the similarities between the medinas of Fes and Tunis, focusing on cultural repurposing projects. Both cities are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and share similar heritage resources, including mosques, mausoleums, madrasas, zawiyas, and traditional houses. As popular tourist and artisanal destinations, both medinas have undertaken multiple heritage rehabilitation initiatives and policies. Significant investments have been made in the cultural repurposing and economic revitalization of restored heritage, avoiding the construction of new cultural spaces by repurposing vacant buildings within the medina. This strategy aims to give contemporary functions to historic buildings while preserving their architectural integrity. By doing so, it ensures the conservation of the historic center, supports its development and breathes new life into unoccupied structures.
Learning from seismic culture in the vernacular architecture of Tulahuén, Chile
Authors: JORQUERA SILVA Natalia
Published: January 2025

Abstract. Chile is one of the most seismically active countries in the world, due to the subduction of the Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate, which causes earthquakes with magnitudes above 7.0 approximately every ten years. This high seismicity has always shaped the characteristics of vernacular architecture and traditional construction techniques, particularly adobe buildings, through a process of trial and error. Seismically vulnerable structures have disappeared, while those that have survived owe their resilience to the development of a seismic culture among the inhabitants and the creation of technical solutions that allow buildings to respond better to seismic events. This is the case of Tulahuén, a village located in the mountains of the Coquimbo region in northern Chile, where vernacular architecture, characterized by the use of adobe, incorporates various types of wooden reinforcements, built by the residents themselves, which have enabled these structures to withstand the intense local seismic activity. This article is the result of two research studies, in which, through direct observation and the collection of oral memories from local inhabitants, the seismic-resistant devices present in Tulahuén were characterized and their role in the resilience of this vernacular architecture was evaluated.
Geotechnical and geophysical characterization of traditional construction materials in the Tafilalet Region: Towards sustainable building
Authors: SOUILEH Ayoub
Published: January 2025

Abstract. This study focuses on the geotechnical and geophysical characterization of traditional construction materials in the Tafilalet region, Morocco. The objective is to assess the physical properties of soils used in traditional construction to optimize their use in sustainable building projects. The materials, primarily composed of raw earth, were analyzed through granulometric and compaction tests, along with geophysical methods such as electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and ground-penetrating radar (GPR). These analyses evaluate soil composition, compaction potential, and stability, particularly to moisture content, providing recommendations for the optimal use of local materials in eco-friendly construction
Optimization and enhancement of building envelope characteristics for implementing energy-efficient buildings
Authors: Bourass Omar
Published: January 2025

Abstract. The purpose of this scientific paper is to study the impact of optimizing the characteristics of the envelope of a house localized in a desert climate, on the annual energy needs in terms of heating and cooling, solar energy, and internal gains and losses. In this regard, simulations were carried out, first on a basic house which took into consideration the characteristics of the usual construction method in this specified geographical area, and secondly, on the same basic house but improved in terms of its envelope characteristics and taking in consideration some of the strongest point of vernacular architecture in this area, namely, the harmony between environment and buildings. Based on our analysis, it turns out that by simply optimizing the characteristics of the envelope, we can save a considerable amount of energy throughout the life cycle of a house and we manage to save three times less energy, more energy gains, and less energy losses compared to the basic method of construction.
Laâzib: A dry stone architectural expression Case of the Laâzibs on the Yagour Plateau in the High Atlas of Morocco
Authors: HRACHERRASS Loubna
Published: January 2025

Abstract. The Moroccan mountains are filled with stone constructions that showcase skills and construction techniques in harmony with the natural environment and human ways of life. Rarely studied by researchers, these architectural expressions in stone, now considered vernacular heritage, deserve to be explored and studied to uncover their uniqueness and specificities. Among these constructions is the laâzib, a form of rural dwelling characteristic of the high Atlas Mountains of Morocco. True imprints of humans on their territory, built by and for transhumance and serving both as a dwelling and a sheepfold, laâzib embody centuries-old expertise in dry stone construction Exploring this architectural expression in terms of construction methods, ways of life, and usage will be carried out through the study of the laâzibs located on the Yagour plateau, a pastoral area of over 70 km², perched between 1,900 and 2,700 meters above sea level in the High Atlas Mountains, south of Marrakech. A true crossroads for shepherds, Yagour annually hosts nearly 7,000 people from the surrounding villages and is home to several laâzibs. This article aims to explore one of the oldest examples of traditional rural dry-stone buildings in Morocco, deeply rooted in a natural environment characterized by its harshness, exceptional management system, and construction techniques infused with the genius of the place.
Egyedi mobilalkalmazások a kis- és középvállalkozások digitális átalakulásának motorjaként: A Z generáció elvárásainak kielégítése
Authors: Péntek Ádám , Kovács Tamás
Published: January 2025

The aim of the research is to investigate the impact of the automation of monotonous work processes (BPMs) on the operation of SMEs in Hajdú-Bihar, focusing on the change in the attractiveness of workplaces for Generation Z. In a case study, the effects of automating repetitive tasks in an SME were analysed by means of a test period and interviews. We found that automation significantly reduced labour demand and the number of errors, freeing up workers for more creative tasks. This change made the workplace more attractive to Generation Z, who now prefer a modern and efficient work environment. Automation has also improved business efficiency and results through labour savings and a reduction in error rates. Built-in controls and a dedicated mobile app have provided additional benefits such as strengthening the employer brand, creating a youthful image and a user-friendly interface. Interviews with participants showed that employees were more satisfied, motivated and engaged after automating monotonous tasks. Overall, the automation of monotonous BPMs is an effective tool to increase the competitiveness of SMEs, save labour and improve the attractiveness of jobs, opening up further digitisation opportunities for micro-enterprises.
More Cyberbullying, Less Happiness, and More Injustice—Psychological Changes During the Pericyberbullying Period: Quantitative Study Based on Social Media Data
Authors: Liu Xingyun , Liu Miao , Kang Xin , Han Nuo , Liao Yuehan , Ren Zhihong
Published: January 2025

Background

The phenomenon of cyberbullying is becoming increasingly severe, and many studies focus on the negative psychological impacts of cyberbullying survivors. However, current survey methods cannot provide direct and reliable evidence of the short-term psychological effects of cyberbullying survivors, as it is impractical to measure psychological changes before and after such an unpredictable event in a short period.

Objective

This study aims to explore the psychological impacts of cyberbullying on survivors during the pericyberbullying period, defined as the critical time frame surrounding the first cyberbullying incident, encompassing the psychological changes before, during, and after the event.

Methods

We collected samples from 60 cyberbullying survivors (experimental group, 94/120, 78% female) and 60 individuals who have not experienced cyberbullying (control group, matched by sex, location, and number of followers) on Sina Weibo, a social media platform developed by Sina Corporation. During the pericyberbullying period, we retrospectively measured psychological traits 3 months before and after the first cyberbullying incident for both groups. Social media data and predictive models were used to identify survivors’ internal psychological traits, including happiness, suicide risk, personality traits, and moral perceptions of the external environment. Network analysis was then performed to explore the interplay between cyberbullying experiences and psychological characteristics.

Results

During the pericyberbullying period, survivors exhibited significantly reduced happiness (t59=2.14; P=.04), marginally increased suicide risk, and significant changes in the Big 5 personality traits, including decreased conscientiousness (t59=2.27; P=.03), agreeableness (t59=2.79; P=.007), and extraversion (t59=2.26; P=.03), alongside increased neuroticism (t59=–3.42; P=.001). Regarding moral perceptions of the external environment, survivors showed significant increases in communicative moral motivation (t59=–2.62; P=.011) and FairnessVice (t59=–2.20; P=.03), with a marginal rise in PurityVice (t59=–1.88; P=.07). In contrast, the control group exhibited no significant changes during the same time frame. Additionally, network analysis revealed that beyond cyberbullying experiences, core psychological characteristics in the network were neuroticism, conscientiousness, and Oxford Happiness.

Conclusions

By leveraging noninvasive retrospective social media data, this study provides novel insights into the short-term psychological impacts of cyberbullying during the pericyberbullying period. The findings highlight the need for timely interventions focusing on enhancing survivors’ happiness, reducing suicide risk, adjusting personality traits, and rebuilding moral cognition to mitigate the negative effects of cyberbullying.
Impact of digital infrared thermographic imaging for limb salvage in patients at risk of limb amputation: Short Paper (Preprint)
Authors: Loza-González Víctor Manuel , Kolosovas-Machuca Eleazar Samuel , Cervantes-Báez Patricia Aurea , Ramírez-GarcíaLuna José Luis , Guevara Edgar , Martínez-Jiménez Mario Aurelio
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Scores and prediction models, such as the MESS score for trauma, and the Wifi classification for diabetic foot ulcers, help in the decision-making process of amputation. However, they can be subjective as they depend on the experience of the medical staff applying them.

OBJECTIVE

Assess the impact of temperature measurement using infrared thermal imaging in extremities salvage.

METHODS

We included 29 patients who sought a second opinion after an amputation recommendation, infrared thermographic images were acquired to measure the temperature differences (ΔT) between the injured and uninjured limbs. For the saved limbs, we provided clinical follow until 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Of the patients enrolled in the study, 27 limbs were salvaged, thermographic images allowed the discrimination of two groups: the first group of 18 patients with negative deltas, ΔT -3.6°C ± 1.99, and a second group of 9 patients with positive deltas, ΔT of 3.36°C ±2.71. None of the groups had a progression to enlargement of their delta in the first 5 days, and at the twelfth week approached to ΔT of 0°C at wound closure. For the two patients who required amputation, one patient showed an initial negative ΔT of -4.3°C, which worsened to -5°C by the fifth day, the other patient showed an initial negative of -4.5°C, which worsened to -5.8°C by the fifth day.

CONCLUSIONS

Digital infrared thermography is a tool that can help guide limb salvage in patients with uncertain clinical diagnoses. This imaging modality allows visualization of thermal differences and patterns derived from thermal changes in patients at risk of limb amputation.

CLINICALTRIAL

This study was approved under registry 08-23 by the Research Ethics Committee of the Hospital Central “Dr. Ignacio Morones Prieto” (CONBIOÉTICA-24-CEI-001-20160427).
WT-LSTM for Intensive Care Unit Length-of-Stay Prediction with Real-Time Signal (Preprint)
Authors: Jiang Yiqun , Li Qing , Zhang Wenli
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Efficient allocation of healthcare resources is essential for sustainable hospital operation. Effective intensive care unit (ICU) management is essential for alleviating the financial strain on healthcare systems. Accurate prediction of length-of-stay in ICUs is vital for optimizing capacity planning and resource allocation, with the challenge of achieving early, real-time predictions.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to develop a predictive model, namely WT-LSTM, for ICU length-of-stay using only real-time vital sign data. The model is designed for urgent care settings where demographic and historical patient data or lab results may be unavailable; the model leverages real-time inputs to deliver early and accurate ICU length-of-stay predictions.

METHODS

The proposed model integrates discrete wavelet transformation and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural networks to filter noise from patients’ vital sign series and improve length-of-stay prediction accuracy. Model performance was evaluated using the eICU database, focusing on ten common ICU admission diagnoses in the database.

RESULTS

The results demonstrate that WT-LSTM consistently outperforms baseline models, including linear regression, LSTM, and BiLSTM, in predicting ICU length-of-stay using vital sign data, achieving significant improvements in Mean Squared Error (MSE). Specifically, the wavelet transformation component of the model enhances the overall performance of WT-LSTM. Removing this component results in an average decrease of 3.3% in MSE; such a phenomenon is particularly pronounced in specific patient cohorts. The model's adaptability is highlighted through real-time predictions using only 3-hour, 6-hour, 12-hour, and 24-hour input data. Using only three hours of input data, the WT-LSTM model delivers competitive results across the ten most common ICU admission diagnoses, often outperforming APACHE IV, the leading ICU outcome prediction system currently implemented in clinical practice. WT-LSTM effectively captures patterns from vital signs recorded during the initial hours of a patient’s ICU stay, making it a promising tool for early prediction and resource optimization in the ICU.

CONCLUSIONS

Our proposed WT-LSTM model, based on real-time vital sign data, offers a promising solution for ICU length-of-stay prediction. Its high accuracy and early prediction capabilities hold significant potential for enhancing clinical practice, optimizing resource allocation, and supporting critical clinical and administrative decisions in ICU management.
Identifying and Reducing Waste in the Chicken Carcass Production Process at PT. Ciomas Adisatwa
Authors: Izdihar Ulfah , Kristanti Novita Erma , Nurbaiti Nurbaiti , Hapsarini Indira , Saraswati Ayu Rahayu
Published: January 2025

PT. Ciomas Adisatwa unit Berbah is one of the Poultry Slaughterhouses (PSh) in Yogyakarta, producing 2,000 chickens/hour. However, some production steps do not increase the value of the finished product. Because of that, wasteful and non-value-added production processes must be eliminated to reduce the risk of contamination in PSh products and make the production process more efficient. Therefore, this study aims to identify the causes of waste and find an appropriate system to reduce the waste process. The methods used in this study include the Value Stream Analysis Tools (VALSAT) technique and future state mapping. Lean manufacturing is a concept used to reduce or eliminate waste in a production process. The wastes identified in the PT Ciomas Adisatwa production process include waiting activity, inappropriate processing, and unnecessary motion. The material weighing process identified the waiting activity because it was waiting for the Delivery Order (DO). Inappropriate processing occurs in hair removal rework in a clean area. The third waste is unnecessary motion, movement that is not needed occurs in cutting operators and dirty processes. The proposed improvements to address these wastes include enhancing the integration of information flow systems using a computer network, adding a plucker machine, and clarifying the division of tasks for each workstation to avoid unnecessary motion.