bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extended Maximum Actor–Critic Framework Based on Policy Gradient Reinforcement for System Optimization
Authors: Kim Jung-Hyun , Choi Yong-Hoon , Choi You-Rak , Jeong Jae-Hyeok , Kim Min-Suk
Published: February 2025

Recently, significant research efforts have been directed toward leveraging Artificial Intelligence for sensor data processing and system control. In particular, it is essential to determine the optimal path and trajectory by calculating sensor data for effective control systems. For instance, model-predictive control based on Proportional-Integral-Derivative models is intuitive, efficient, and provides outstanding control performance. However, challenges in tracking persist, which requires active research and development to integrate and optimize the control system in terms of Machine Learning. Specifically, Reinforcement Learning, a branch of Machine Learning, has been used in several research fields to solve optimal control problems. In this paper, we propose an Extended Maximum Actor–Critic using a Reinforcement Learning-based method to combine the advantages of both value and policy to enhance the learning stability of actor–critic for optimization of system control. The proposed method integrates the actor and the maximized actor in the learning process to evaluate and identify actions with the highest value, facilitating effective learning exploration. Additionally, to enhance the efficiency and robustness of the agent learning process, we propose Prioritized Hindsight Experience Replay, combining the advantages of Prioritized Experience Replay and Hindsight Experience Replay. To verify this, we performed evaluations and experiments to examine the improved training stability in the MuJoCo environment, which is a simulator based on Reinforcement Learning. The proposed Prioritized Hindsight Experience Replay method significantly enhances the experience to be compared with the standard replay buffer and PER in experimental simulators, such as the simple HalfCheetah-v4 and the complex Ant-v4. Thus, Prioritized Hindsight Experience Replay achieves a higher success rate than PER in FetchReach-v2, demonstrating the significant effectiveness of our proposed method in more complex reward environments.
Residential Building Renovation Considering Energy, Carbon Emissions, and Cost: An Approach Integrating Machine Learning and Evolutionary Generation
Authors: Shan Rudai , Lai Wanyu , Tang Huan , Leng Xiangyu , Gu Wei
Published: February 2025

As the dual carbon goals are being approached, there has been an increase in the number of energy-saving renovation projects for existing buildings. However, building renovation also brings about environmental impacts and incremental costs, which need to be addressed urgently. This study proposes an integrated artificial intelligence framework to facilitate multi-criteria energy renovation decision making by combining a surrogate-based machine learning (ML) model and an evolutionary generative algorithm to efficiently and accurately identify optimal renovation strategies. To enhance the robustness of the methodology, a comparative analysis of four different ML models—light gradient boosting machine (LightGBM), fast random forest (FRF), multivariate linear regression (MVLR), and artificial neural network (ANN)—was conducted, with LightGBM demonstrating the best performance in terms of accuracy, adaptability, and efficiency. Using the heuristic optimization algorithm and entropy-weighted method, the framework achieved average energy savings of 56.62%, a reduction in carbon emissions of 51.60%, and a 24.27% decrease in life-cycle costs. Compared to local ultra-low-energy building standards, the optimal solutions resulted in a 2.60% reduction in carbon emissions and a 15.85% decrease in life-cycle costs. This integrated framework demonstrates the potential of combining machine learning surrogate models, evolutionary generation, and entropy-weighted methods in building energy retrofitting optimizations, offering a novel, efficient, and adaptable approach for researchers and practitioners seeking to balance energy consumption, carbon emissions, and life-cycle costs in renovation projects.
Boundary-Aware Concurrent Queue: A Fast and Scalable Concurrent FIFO Queue on GPU Environments
Authors: Polak Md. Sabbir Hossain , Troendle David A. , Jang Byunghyun
Published: February 2025

This paper presents Boundary-Aware Concurrent Queue (BACQ), a high-performance queue designed for modern GPUs, which focuses on high concurrency in massively parallel environments. BACQ operates at the warp level, leveraging intra-warp locality to improve throughput. A key to BACQ’s design is its ability to replace conflicting accesses to shared data with independent accesses to private data. It uses a ticket-based system to ensure fair ordering of operations and supports infinite growth of the head and tail across its ring buffer. The leader thread of each warp coordinates enqueue and dequeue operations, broadcasting offsets for intra-warp synchronization. BACQ dynamically adjusts operation priorities based on the queue’s state, especially as it approaches boundary conditions such as overfilling the buffer. It also uses a virtual caching layer for intra-warp communication, reducing memory latency. Rigorous benchmarking results show that BACQ outperforms the BWD (Broker Queue Work Distributor), the fastest known GPU queue, by more than 2× while preserving FIFO semantics. The paper demonstrates BACQ’s superior performance through real-world empirical evaluations.
Exploring the Influence of Shared Socioeconomic Pathway Scenarios on School Energy Retrofits: An Emphasis on the Building Envelope
Authors: Romero-Recuero Irene , Nestares-Nieto Beatriz , Serrano-Jiménez Antonio
Published: February 2025

The optimization of energy consumption in response to global warming scenarios presents fundamental challenges in the built environment, particularly in Mediterranean climates, where comfort and energy efficiency require priority-based adaptation. This study examines the effectiveness of passive energy retrofit strategies applied to an educational building in Granada, Spain, accommodating both teaching and residential uses. The research uses advanced climatic data based on Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs), incorporating precise projections of climate evolution. Using simulations conducted in DesignBuilder, it evaluates three intervention packages for the building envelope—window replacement, facade insulation, and roof insulation—across three temporal scenarios: 2024, 2050, and 2080. The results indicate that passive measures could reduce heating demand by up to 90% in future scenarios, while cooling demand is projected to increase by more than 80% by the end of the century. Additionally, climate projections under the SSP scenarios show up to an 83% increase in energy demand, emphasizing the need for integrated passive and active strategies. The research includes a sensitivity analysis of the interaction between passive strategies and advanced climate scenarios. It offers decision-making models for energy retrofitting and provides replicable key insights to support energy retrofitting policies and climate resilience in the Mediterranean region.
Real-Time Detection of At-Risk Movements Using Smartwatch IMU Sensors
Authors: Oh Haeun , Yoo Jaehyun
Published: February 2025

The issue of personal safety for crime prevention has become a significant societal concern. Existing software on smartwatches developed for personal protection might provide GPS location tracking and emergency reporting, but this is limited to proactively detecting and responding to actual at-risk situations. This paper presents a real-time motion detection algorithm for smartwatches that utilizes an accelerometer to identify at-risk movements when a wearer is under threat. Daily activities, including walking, running, desk work, and being threatened, are distinguished by a machine learning-based alarm application. A total of 5534 data points across four classes were collected from experiments. The proposed 1D-CNN model exhibited the highest performance in comparison with SVM, k-NN, random forest, SGD. Additionally, our comparative analysis of using time-domain versus frequency-domain data in machine learning revealed that frequency-domain features offer advantages in both accuracy and real-time performance. Finally, the proposed inference model was implemented as a smartwatch application that can detect at-risk situations in real time. The application was tested in real-world scenarios, showcasing the effectiveness of personal safety.
Techno-Functional Properties and Recent Advances in the Manufacturing of Whey Beverages: A Review
Authors: Rejdlová Anita , Lorencová Eva , Míšková Zuzana , Salek Richardos Nikolaos
Published: February 2025

Whey is mostly generated during the production of cheese or curds. Nevertheless, the quantity of whey generated is substantial, with just fifty percent of the total utilised. Moreover, improper disposal of whey has a negative impact on the environment. The use of whey in beverage production is an innovative approach with the potential to expand the application possibilities of this by-product of the food industry. The article focuses on the composition and health benefits of whey, while the impact of improper disposal of whey into wastewater and the environmental impact are discussed. Included is a description of the production and properties of unfermented and fermented whey beverages. Finally, new technological processes used in the production of whey-based beverages are discussed.
Research on the Influence of Wind Speed Parameter Matching on the Operation Quality of an Upper Suction-Type Rice Mill
Authors: Ma Zhide , Wang Lizong , Yang Liu , Shu Can , Huang Pingan
Published: February 2025

The rice bran is mixed with broken rice. In traditional horizontal rice mill working, the upper suction-type rice mill, equipped with air duct, is designed to separate rice bran from broken rice. The upper suction-type rice mill working principle, rice particles movement in the air duct and the air duct structure are analyzed. The upper suction-type rice mill model is established with the CFD-DEM coupling method. The rice particles’ movement behavior in milling is investigated. The separation test of rice bran and broken rice is conducted with prototype. Simulation reliability is verified and optimal working parameters are determined. The simulation results show larger air speed results in stronger airflow. The rice bran movement is obvious, and the mix rate is lower. With increasing air speed, the rice grains distribution turns to be evenly, grains move and roll more frequently in the milling chamber’s vertical direction. The accumulation at the bottom of the milling chamber is alleviated, and the broken rice rate is reduced. The separation test is conducted at the Hubei Wufeng Grain Machinery Co., Ltd. (Wuhan, China). The air speed (vo) is 6–8 m/s and the jet air speed (vp) is 10–20 m/s. The results show that when the air speed is 6 m/s and the jet air speed is 20 m/s, the separation rate is 95.4%, the mix rate is 2.4% and the broken rice rate is 5.4%, indicating that the rice mill operation performance is good. The study can provide a reference basis for optimizing working parameters of upper suction-type rice mills.
Optimizing Agent Behavior in the MiniGrid Environment Using Reinforcement Learning Based on Large Language Models
Authors: Park Byeong-Ju , Yong Sung-Jung , Hwang Hyun-Seo , Moon Il-Young
Published: February 2025

Reinforcement learning is one of the most prominent research areas in the field of artificial intelligence, playing a crucial role in developing agents that autonomously make decisions in complex environments. This study proposes a method to optimize agent behavior in the MiniGrid-Empty-5x5-v0 environment using large language models (LLMs). By leveraging the natural language processing capabilities of LLMs to interpret environmental states and select appropriate actions, this research explores an approach that differs from traditional reinforcement learning methods. Experimental results confirm that LLM-based agents can effectively achieve their goals, and it is anticipated that maximizing the synergy between LLMs and reinforcement learning will contribute to the development of more intelligent and adaptable AI systems.
The Parameter of Soil Structural Properties and Their Relationship to Grain Size, Density, and Moisture Content
Authors: Wu Xiao-Juan , Dang Fa-Ning , Li Jia-Yang
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a new definition of a structural parameter for soil is given to characterize the mechanical properties of soils and their changing patterns. The soil structural parameter is a quantitative descriptor of soil structural properties. Structural parameters are related not only to the grain size, density, and moisture content of the soil material composition and state, but also to the spatial arrangement of soil particles in the soil skeleton structure and the characteristics of intergranular associations. The new definition of the structural parameter, established from the comparison of loess structural stability and variability, is defined as the ratio of the shear strength of undisturbed loess to that of remodeled saturated loess. The patterns of moisture content, confining pressure, and dry density on structural properties were analyzed and the degrees of influence of each factor on structural properties were quantified. By analyzing the change rule of the structural parameter of loess with the difference of moisture content and plastic limit, its change rule with plastic limit and liquid limit, and the change rule of the structural parameter with the liquidity index, the essential relationship between the structural parameter and grain size, density, and moisture is revealed. The essential relationship between the structural parameter and grain size, density, and moisture were also revealed.
Verification of a Probabilistic Model and Optimization in Long-Range Networks
Authors: Romero Vázquez José Luis , García-Barrientos Abel , Del-Puerto-Flores José Alberto , Castillo Soria Francisco R. , Ibarra-Hernández Roilhi F. , Pineda Rico Ulises , Zambrano-Serrano Ernesto
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a comprehensive probabilistic analysis of packet loss in long-range (LoRa) networks, a vital aspect of low-power, wide-area communication systems increasingly employed in IoT applications. The proposed model integrates multiple critical factors, including packet arrival rates, transmission power levels, and the distance between transmitting nodes and the gateway. By incorporating these variables into a unified probabilistic framework, the model not only predicts packet loss and interference patterns but also provides insights into optimizing network parameters. Specifically, it focuses on determining the optimal transmission power required to balance energy efficiency and communication reliability. A distinctive feature of the analysis is its ability to adapt dynamically to varying network conditions, ensuring sustained performance even in environments with high node density or fluctuating traffic loads. The study also explores the interplay between transmission power and interference, demonstrating how careful calibration of power settings can significantly reduce packet collisions while conserving energy resources. The proposed framework not only advances theoretical understanding, but also offers actionable guidelines for network designers seeking to achieve high performance in resource-constrained environments.
Interpreting the Mechanical Behaviour of Carbonate Sand-Fine Mixtures Using the Modified Interfine Void Ratio
Authors: Xu Miaomiao , Xu Jie , Shen Jie
Published: February 2025

Understanding the mechanical behaviour of carbonate sand-fine mixtures is crucial for modelling geotechnical-related gas exploitation problems in potential gas hydrate reservoirs. This paper presents a laboratory investigation of the mechanical behaviour of carbonate sand-fine mixtures with a carbonate sand content of no more than 40%. By means of computer tomography, the internal porosity of carbonate sand grains was measured, and the interfine void ratio was modified. For carbonate sand-fine mixtures with a similar void ratio, all mixtures exhibited strain-softening behaviour, and the peak strength decreased with increasing carbonate sand content. Compared to the mixture whose density was controlled by the void ratio, the change rule of mechanical behaviour influenced by the carbonate sand content was precisely the opposite for that controlled by the interfine void ratio. The mixture with the smallest modified interfine void ratio exhibited the highest peak strength and the strongest dilative volumetric behaviour. By adopting the modified interfine void ratio as a state variable, a unique critical state line can be identified with a carbonate sand content of no more than 40%, leading to a framework that coherently characterises the mechanical behaviour of these gap-graded soil mixtures.
Analysis of the Use of Similarity Coefficients in Manufacturing Cell Formation Processes
Authors: Sellitto Miguel Afonso
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the application of similarity coefficients in cellular layout and group technology in industrial organizations, focusing on multicellular manufacturing. Cell formation methods and techniques were explored, ranging from similarity of operations to production volume, in addition to the main elements of group technology. Cellular layout and group technology offer tangible benefits to industrial processes, such as increased operational efficiency, reduced production costs, and improved quality of final products. The choice and implementation of techniques based on similarity take into account factors such as product variety, production volume, process complexity, and market demand. One of the techniques is the use of similarity coefficients. The purpose of this study is to analyze the use of similarity coefficients in the cell formation process. The technical contribution of this study is that now practitioners have a detailed guide to applying similarity coefficients and verifying the results of the cell formation process in manufacturing activities. A bibliometric search using convenient keywords in the Google Scholar search engine identified the incidences of twenty types of similarity coefficients. The most cited coefficient, the Jaccard coefficient, was tested in standard and non-standard application cases, and the results were compared to support a conclusion. Further research should involve quantitative techniques such as multicriteria evaluation and fuzzy logic in the cell formation process.
Causes and Transmission Characteristics of the Regional PM2.5 Heavy Pollution Process in the Urban Agglomerations of the Central Taihang Mountains
Authors: Yang Luoqi , Wang Guangjie , Wang Yegui , Ma Yongjing , Zhang Xi
Published: February 2025

The Taihang Mountains serve as a critical geographical barrier in northern China, delineating two major 2.5-micrometer particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution hotspots in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region and the Fenwei Plain. This study examines the underlying mechanisms and interregional dynamic transport pathways of a severe PM2.5 pollution event that occurred in the urban agglomerations of the Central Taihang Mountains (CTHM) from 8–13 December 2021. The WRF-HYSPLIT simulation was employed to analyze a broader range of potential pollution sources and transport pathways. Additionally, a new river network analysis module was developed and integrated with the Atmospheric Pollutant Transport Quantification Model (APTQM). This module is capable of identifying localized, small-scale (interplot) pollution transport processes, thereby enabling more accurate identification of potential source areas and transport routes. The findings indicate that the persistence of low temperatures, high humidity, and stagnant atmospheric conditions facilitated both the local accumulation and cross-regional transport of PM2.5. The eastern urban agglomerations, such as Shijiazhuang and Xingtai, were predominantly influenced by northwesterly air masses originating from Inner Mongolia and Shanxi, with pollution levels intensified due to topographic blocking and subsidence effects east of the Taihang Mountains. In contrast, western urban centers, including Taiyuan and Yangquan, experienced pollution primarily from short-range transport within the Fen River Basin, central Inner Mongolia, and Shaanxi, compounded by basin-induced stagnation. Three principal transport pathways were identified: (1) a northwestern pathway from Inner Mongolia to Hebei, (2) a southwestern pathway following the Fen River Basin, and (3) a southward inflow from Henan. The trajectory analysis revealed that approximately 68% of PM2.5 in eastern receptor cities was transported through topographic channels within the Taihang Transverse Valleys, whereas 43% of pollution in the western regions originated from intra-basin emissions and basin-capture circulation. Furthermore, APTQM-PM2.5 identified major pollution source regions, including Ordos and Chifeng in Inner Mongolia, as well as Taiyuan and the Fen River Basin. This study underscores the synergistic effects of basin topography, regional circulation, and anthropogenic emissions in shaping pollution distribution patterns. The findings provide a scientific basis for formulating targeted, regionally coordinated air pollution mitigation strategies in complex terrain areas.
Overview of Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway and DNA Damage/Repair in Cancer
Authors: Nadin Silvina B. , Cuello-Carrión F. Darío , Cayado-Gutiérrez Niubys , Fanelli Mariel A.
Published: February 2025

The Wnt/β-catenin pathway takes part in important cellular processes in tumor cells, such as gene expression, adhesion, and survival. The canonical pathway is activated in several tumors, and β-catenin is its major effector. The union of Wnt to the co-receptor complex causes the inhibition of GSK3β activity, thus preventing the phosphorylation and degradation of β-catenin, which accumulates in the cytoplasm, to subsequently be transported to the nucleus to associate with transcription factors. The relationship between Wnt/β-catenin and DNA damage/repair mechanisms has been a focus for the last few years. Studying the Wnt/β-catenin network interactions with DNA damage/repair proteins has become a successful research field. This review provides an overview of the participation of Wnt/β-catenin in DNA damage/repair mechanisms and their future implications as targets for cancer therapy.
Impeding Biofilm-Forming Mediated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Virulence Genes Using a Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles–Antibiotic Combination
Authors: Fareid Mohamed A. , El-Sherbiny Gamal M. , Askar Ahmed A. , Abdelaziz Amer M. , Hegazy Asmaa M. , Ab Aziz Rosilah , Hamada Fatma A.
Published: February 2025

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) continues to represent a significant clinical challenge, characterized by consistently elevated rates of morbidity and mortality. Care regimen success is still difficult and necessitates assessing new antibiotics as well as supplemental services, including source control and searching for alternative approaches to combating it. Hence, we propose to synthesize silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) by employing a cell-free filter (CFF) of Streptomyces sp. to augment antibiotic activity and combat biofilm-forming MRSA. Seven bacterial isolates from clinical samples were identified, antibiotics were profiled with Vitek-2, and the phenotypic detecting of biofilm with Congo red medium and microplate assay was carried out. The PCR technique was used for detecting genes (icaA and icaD) coded in biofilm forming. The characterization of Ag-NPs was performed using several analytical methods, such as UV spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential measurement, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The antibacterial properties of Ag-NPs and oxacillin–Ag-NPs were assessed against standard strains and clinical isolates by employing the agar well diffusion technique and the microdilution assay. The biogenic synthesis Ag-NPs resulted in uniformly spherical particles, with an average size of 20 nm. These Ag-NPs demonstrated significant activity against biofilm-forming MRSA, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 12 to 15 μg/mL. Additionally, Ag-NPs completely impede biofilm formation by MRSA at sublethal doses of 0.75 MICs. The expression levels of the icaA and icaD genes were reduced by 1.9- to 2.2- and 2.4- to 2.8-fold, respectively. A significant synergistic effect was noted when Ag-NPs were used in combination with oxacillin, leading to reduced MICs of 1.87 μg/mL for oxacillin and 4.0 μg/mL for Ag-NPs against MRSA. The FICi of 0.375 further validated the synergistic relationship between oxacillin and Ag-NPs at the concentrations of 1.87 and 4 μg/mL. Findings from the time-kill test demonstrated the highest reduction in log10 (CFU)/mL of the initial MRSA inoculum after 12-hour exposure. The cytotoxicity analysis of Ag-NPs revealed no significant cytotoxic effects on the human skin cell line HFB-4 at low concentrations, with IC50 values of 61.40 µg/mL for HFB-4 and 34.2 µg/mL for HepG-2. Comparable with oxacillin–Ag-NPs, Ag-NPs showed no cytotoxic effects on HFB-4 at different concentrations and exhibited an IC50 value of 31.2 against HepG-2-cells. In conclusion, the biosynthesis of Ag-NPs has demonstrated effective antibacterial activity against MRSA and has completely hindered biofilm formation, suggesting a valuable alternative for clinical applications.
Solid Organ Transplants Caused by COVID-19 Infection and the Outcome of Transplantation Post-COVID-19: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mahmoud Shadi , Sarkar Aparajita , AlMahmoud Latifa , Alladaboina Sushanth , Syed Leena F. , Yaghmour Mohammad , Elmoh Safaa , AlShebani Meera , Aly Kareem , Al-Ansari Haya , Al-Mohamedi Mohammed , Yagan Lina , Zakaria Dalia
Published: February 2025

The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has imposed several medical and economic challenges since its onset in 2019. This is due to its ability to target the respiratory system as well as other organs, resulting in significant impacts and necessitating organ transplants. Our goal is to compile information from the existing literature to investigate how COVID-19 affects outcomes following organ transplantation. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to target studies reporting post-COVID-19 complications. We included 45 studies reporting data related to solid organ transplants, where either the recipient, organ, or donor was affected by SARS-CoV-2. The majority of the included studies concluded that organ transplantation following COVID-19 infection could be performed safely and with similar outcomes to non-COVID-19 patients, regardless of whether the organ, donor, or recipient was affected by COVID-19. No deviation from standard immunosuppression regimens or surgical protocols was necessary either, further re-assuring the feasibility of these transplants as viable treatment options. This applies to organ transplants involving the lungs, kidneys, liver, or heart. However, there was a limited number of studies in some areas, which warrants the need for additional research in order to reach more concrete conclusions pertaining to COVID-19’s effect on organ transplants.
Evolution of Light-Sensitive Proteins in Optogenetic Approaches for Vision Restoration: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Poboży Kamil , Poboży Tomasz , Domański Paweł , Derczyński Michał , Konarski Wojciech , Domańska-Poboża Julia
Published: February 2025

Retinal degenerations, such as age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa, present significant challenges due to genetic heterogeneity, limited therapeutic options, and the progressive loss of photoreceptors in advanced stages. These challenges are compounded by difficulties in precisely targeting residual retinal neurons and ensuring the sustained efficacy of interventions. Optogenetics offers a novel approach to vision restoration by inducing light sensitivity in residual retinal neurons through gene delivery of light-sensitive opsins. This review traces the evolution of opsins in optogenetic therapies, highlighting advancements from early research on channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) to engineered variants addressing key limitations. Red-shifted opsins, including ReaChR and ChrimsonR, reduced phototoxicity by enabling activation under longer wavelengths, while Chronos introduced superior temporal kinetics for dynamic visual tracking. Further innovations, such as Multi-Characteristic Opsin 1 (MCO1), optimized opsin performance under ambient light, bridging the gap to real-world applications. Key milestones include the first partial vision restoration in a human patient using ChrimsonR with light-amplifying goggles and ongoing clinical trials exploring the efficacy of opsin-based therapies for advanced retinal degeneration. While significant progress has been made, challenges remain in achieving sufficient light sensitivity for functional vision under normal ambient lighting conditions in a manner that is both effective and safe, eliminating the need for external light-enhancing devices. As research progresses, optogenetic therapies are positioned to redefine the management of retinal degenerative diseases, offering new hope for millions affected by vision loss.
Effects of In Vitro Fermented Pleurotus eryngii on Intestinal Barrier Integrity and Immunomodulation in a Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Colonic Model
Authors: Kerezoudi Evangelia N. , Saxami Georgia , Zervakis Georgios I. , Pletsa Vasiliki , Brummer Robert J. , Kyriacou Adamantini , Rangel Ignacio
Published: February 2025

Background: This study investigates the impact of fermentation supernatants (FSs) from Pleurotus eryngii whole mushrooms (PEWS), as well as its subcomponents, digested (PEWSD) and extracted (PEWSE) forms, on intestinal barrier function and immune modulation in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) -stimulated Caco-2 cells. Methods: Gene expression of tight junction (TJs) genes, cytokines, and key immune/metabolic receptors was assessed via qRT-PCR, while cytokine protein levels were measured using ELISA to explore post-transcriptional regulation. Results: LPS challenge significantly downregulated TJs zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1,) occludin, and claudin-1, compromising epithelial integrity. Treatment with FS-PEWS notably restored ZO-1 and occludin expression, outperforming FS-PEWSD and FS-PEWSE, which only partially mitigated the LPS-induced damage. FS-PEWS further demonstrated potent immunomodulatory effects, upregulating anti-inflammatory IL-10 and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-8 and TNF-α. The activation of key receptors like TLR-2 and mTOR suggests that FS-PEWS modulates critical immune and metabolic pathways, such as NF-kB signaling, to maintain immune homeostasis. Although mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was altered, no corresponding protein release was detected, suggesting potential post-transcriptional regulation. Conclusions: FS-PEWS preserves intestinal barrier integrity and modulates immune responses, particularly in low-grade inflammation, highlighting the whole food matrix’s role in enhancing its bioactivity and functional food potential.
Effect of Gender on Patients with Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Treated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Real-World Study
Authors: Calleja-Chucla Teresa , Cordeiro González Patricia , Martínez Pradeda Alejandro , Pértega-Díaz Sonia , Margusino-Framiñán Luis , Antolín Novoa Silvia
Published: February 2025

Objective: To evaluate the differences in overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) between men and women with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in second-line and later treatments. Methods: A retrospective, single-center observational study was conducted on patients with advanced NSCLC treated with ICIs (nivolumab, pembrolizumab, and atezolizumab) from January 2015 to December 2019 (with follow-up until December 2021). Demographic, clinical, and treatment-related variables were collected. OSand PFSwere analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared between genders using the log-rank test.A multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to adjust for confounders. Results: A total of 189 patients were included, and 47 (25%) were women. The most common histology was adenocarcinoma (61%). Women began treatment at a younger age (59.8 vs. 66 years, p < 0.001) and had higher rates of active smoking (46.8% vs. 38%, p = 0.001). The median OS was similar between men (9.5 months, 95% CI: 7.1–11.8) and women (9.2 months, 95% CI: 3.3–15.2; p = 0.382) while PFS was significantly higher in males (3.2 months, 95% CI: 2.5–4.0) than in females (2.1 months; 95% CI = 1.6–2.5) (p = 0.002).Women had higher rates of tumor cachexia (BMI < 20).Worse PFS was observed for women both in the <20 kg/m2 (median PFS: 1.8 vs. 2.7 months, p = 0.016) and 20–24.9 kg/m2 groups (median PFS: 2.2 vs. 3.3 months, p = 0.077), while in patients with a BMI >= 25 kg/m2, median OS was higher in women than in men (14.7 months vs. 10.1 months). Women had also a significantly worse PFS than men among those with a cumulative tobacco consumption of <30 packs-year (median PFS: 2.2 vs. 3.2, p = 0.038. In the multivariate analysis, the male sex was significantly associated with a better PFS(HR = 0.59; p = 0.009), without significant differences between sexes in OS (HR = 0.90; p = 0.618). Among the other variables analyzed, only an ECOG >= 2 was significantly associated with both worse OS (HR = 3.53; 95% CI = 1.93–6.47) and PFS (HR = 2.19; 95% CI = 1.23–3.89). Women who discontinued due to toxicity (n = 7) had a median OS of 41.4 months (95% CI: 14.7–68.1) after discontinuation, whereas men (n = 15) had a median OS of 8.8 months (95% CI: 6.9–10.8), (p = 0.045). Conclusions: Sex-based differences were observed in the ICI outcomes. Women had worse PFS, particularly with lower BMI and lower tobacco exposure, despite similar OS between sexes. Women discontinued ICIs due to toxicity earlier but showed longer OS after discontinuation. Poor ECOG status was linked to worse outcomes across all the patients.
Blockchain-Assisted Self-Sovereign Identities on Education: A Survey
Authors: Chan Weilin , Gai Keke , Yu Jing , Zhu Liehuang
Published: February 2025

The education sector has witnessed a significant shift towards digitising student records, with relevant data now stored in centralized data repositories. While traditional identity management solutions in education are functional, they often face various challenges, including data privacy concerns, limited portability, and reliability challenges. As the volume of student data continues to grow, inadequate data management practices have led to several problems. These include students losing control and empowerment over their educational information, increased vulnerability to potential data breaches and unauthorized access, a lack of transparency and accountability, data silos and inconsistencies, and administrative inefficiencies. To address these limitations, the implementation of a blockchain-assisted self-sovereign identity (Ba-SSI) concept in the education system presents a viable solution. Self-sovereign identity (SSI) represents a paradigm shift from traditional centralized identity systems, allowing individuals to maintain full control of their identity data without relying on centralized authorities. By leveraging the decentralized nature, SSI frameworks can ensure security, interoperability, and scalability, thereby improving user-centric identity management. This survey paper explores the potential of Ba-SSI within the context of education. It thoroughly reviews the current state of digital identity management in education, highlighting the limitations of conventional systems and the emerging role of blockchain technology in addressing these challenges. The paper discusses the fundamental principles of blockchain technology and how it can be utilized to enhance security, interoperability, and scalability in identity management. Additionally, it examines the insights and benefits of this approach for the education system. Finally, the paper concludes by addressing the issues, challenges, benefits, and future research directions in this domain, underscoring the potential of Ba-SSI solutions to revolutionize the management and empowerment of student data within the education sector.
Neurostimulation and Sense of Agency: Three tDCS Experiments on the Modulation of Intentional Binding
Authors: Bonuomo Marika , Perrotta Davide , Di Filippo Gloria , Perri Rinaldo Livio
Published: February 2025

Objectives: This research investigated the impact of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on sense of agency (SoA) when focusing on cortical regions like the cerebellum, the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), and the angular gyrus (AG). To this aim, three experiments were carried out, and agency was assessed through the Wundt Clock Paradigm, which provides a measure of intentional binding. Methods: The first experiment provided offline cathodal stimulation applied to the right cerebellum, with the return electrode placed on the left DLPFC, and participants were randomly assigned to either the placebo group or the active group. The second experiment adopted the same montage as the previous one, but the online stimulation was provided in a within-subjects design. Results: Since none of these studies targeting the cerebellum produced significant results on the agency measures, we carried out a third experiment aimed to replicate a previous study that provided inhibitory stimulation of the left AG. However, this also showed no modulations of SoA. Conclusions: Several explanations could be given for these negative results. For example, the inter-individual variability, task complexity, and limitations of tDCS technology may contribute to the inconsistencies of the results. Also, the failure to replicate a previous study raises the issue of the replicability crisis in psychology. Nevertheless, this study may represent an important reference for research aimed at modulating SoA through the neuromodulation of brain areas included in the agency network. Future studies could benefit from assessing individual cognitive abilities supporting agency, optimizing stimulation protocols, and exploring alternative brain stimulation techniques to obtain significant results.
The Flexible Role of Social Experience in the Processing of Abstract Concepts
Authors: Yao Zhao , Chai Yu , He Xiaoli
Published: February 2025

Multiple representation theories propose that social experience plays an important role in grounding abstract concepts. However, it is less clear how social experience influences the processing of abstract concepts, especially whether this influence is modulated by emotional experience and task demands. To address this question, we orthogonally manipulated the socialness (high vs. low) and emotional valence (positive vs. negative vs. neutral) of abstract words in a lexical decision task (LDT, Experiment 1) and an emotional Stroop task (Experiment 2). Results show that the role of socialness in abstract concept processing was modulated by the concept’s emotional valence, with different patterns between the two tasks. Specifically, positive high-socialness (HS) words elicited slower responses than positive low-socialness (LS) words in the emotional Stroop task, but no such difference was observed in the LDT. In both tasks, however, faster responses were found for negative HS than for negative LS words, and no response differences were observed for neutral HS and LS words. These results provide behavioral evidence for the importance of social experience in the processing of abstract concepts and suggest that concept knowledge derived from social experiences interacts with concept knowledge derived from emotional experiences during lexical–semantic processing. This finding clarifies the heterogeneity of abstract concepts, with positive and negative social words constituting distinct subcategories, and confirms experience-based abstract concepts are inherently flexible, selectively combining with other associated embodied experiences based on task demands, thereby dynamically influencing abstract concept processing.
Who Is Afraid of Romantic Relationships? Relationship Fears and Their Connection with Personal Values and Socio-Demographic Variables
Authors: Tartakovsky Eugene
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the fears of romantic relationships. Based on Schwartz’s theory of values, we built a comprehensive inventory of the fears that young people seeking romantic relationships may experience. We tested the fears’ structure and the connections with personal values and socio-demographic variables. The study was conducted in Israel using a community sample of young Jews and Palestinians without romantic partners (n = 1083, 57% female, age 18–30). We discovered ten basic fears clustered into three groups (concerns). The ineptitude concern combines two fears: failing one’s partner’s expectations and failing expectations of one’s relatives and friends. The subjugation concern combines four fears: loss of independence, boredom, sexual frustration, and thwarting one’s achievements. Finally, the abuse concern combines four fears: losing control over one’s resources, being hurt physically or sexually, harming relationships with one’s relatives and friends, and being accused of inappropriate behavior. The ranking of concerns was identical among men and women, with ineptitude being the strongest concern, followed by subjugation and abuse. The ineptitude concern was associated with a higher preference for self-transcendence vs. self-enhancement values. The subjugation concern was associated with higher preferences for openness to change vs. conservation and self-enhancement vs. self-transcendence values. The abuse concern was associated with a higher preference for conservation vs. openness to change values. The ineptitude concern was stronger among younger ages, females, and Jews. The subjugation concern was stronger among older ages, males, and less religious people. Finally, the abuse concern was stronger among younger ages, males, religious people, and Palestinian Israelis. Socio-demographic variables affected relationship concerns directly and indirectly through their connection with personal values. The present study advances the theory of values connecting context-specific and general motivations. The results obtained will be helpful in youth counseling to promote satisfactory decisions regarding romantic relationships.
Analyzing Research Trends in Smart Construction Safety: A Topic Modeling Approach
Authors: Seo Hyun Jeong , Yoon Young-Geun
Published: February 2025

The construction industry is increasingly embracing smart technologies to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Despite their potential, the practical integration of technologies such as digital twins, the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data into construction safety management systems remains insufficiently explored. This study investigates how these technologies can be effectively implemented to improve safety outcomes. A systematic review of the literature is conducted, culminating in the development of a conceptual framework for integrating smart technologies into safety systems. The study highlights the application of digital twins, the IoT, and big data for real-time monitoring, predictive risk management, and resource optimization. The findings reveal that these technologies significantly enhance construction site safety by proactively identifying hazards, reducing accidents, and improving resource allocation. Moreover, smart technologies contribute to environmental sustainability by optimizing energy use and lowering carbon emissions. This research underscores the dual benefits of technological integration, advancing both safety and sustainability objectives. While the study provides theoretical insights and practical implications, further empirical research across diverse construction environments is necessary to validate and refine the proposed framework.
Seismic Performance Assessment of an RC Building Due to 2023 Türkiye Earthquakes: A Case Study in Adıyaman, Türkiye
Authors: Bassurucu Mahmut , Yildiz Ozgur , Kina Ceren
Published: February 2025

The 7.7 and 7.6 magnitude Pazarcık and Elbistan earthquakes that struck Kahramanmaraş on 6 February 2023 caused widespread structural damage across many provinces and are considered rare in seismological terms. While many reinforced concrete (RC) buildings designed under current earthquake regulations sustained significant damage, some older RC buildings with outdated designs sustained only moderate damage. This study aims to analyze the seismic performance of such older RC buildings to understand why they did not collapse or suffer severe damage. An 8-story RC building in Adıyaman province, damaged by the earthquake, was considered for analysis. The region’s seismicity and local site conditions were assessed through borehole operations, geotechnical laboratory tests, and seismic field tests. The soil profile was modeled, and one-dimensional seismic site response analyses were performed using records from nearby stations (TK 4615 Pazarcık and TK 4612 Göksun stations) to determine the foundation-level earthquake record. Nonlinear static pushover analysis was carried out via SAP2000 and STA4CAD, utilizing site response analysis and test results taken from the reinforcement and concrete samples of the building. The findings, compared with the observed damage, provide insights into the performance of older RC buildings in this region.
Response of Thermo-Hydro-Mechanical Fields to Pile Material in Pile–Soil System Under Freezing Based on Numerical Analysis
Authors: Hao Dongxue , Shi Yexian , Chen Rong , Lu Zhao , Ji Yue , Lv Zhonghua , Liu Liguo
Published: February 2025

In engineering practice, various types of pile foundations are commonly employed to mitigate the impact of differential frost heave on structures in cold regions. However, the studies on how pile material properties influence the thermo-hydro-mechanical coupling fields during the freezing of the pile–soil system remain limited. To address this, a finite element model was developed to simulate the response of the pile–soil system under unidirectional freezing conditions. The numerical model in simulating ground temperature field and frost heave was first verified by comparison with experimental results. Then, the simulations for piles made of different materials, specifically steel and concrete piles at field scale, were conducted to obtain real-time temperature, moisture, and displacement fields during the freezing process. The results demonstrate that pile–soil systems of the two materials exhibit clearly different freezing patterns. The thermal conductivity of concrete, being similar to that of the surrounding soil, results in a unidirectional freezing pattern of soil around concrete piles, with the frost depth line parallel to the frost heave surface, forming a “一-shaped” freezing zone. In contrast, the high thermal conductivity of steel piles significantly accelerates the freezing rate and increases the frost depth in the surrounding soil, leading to both vertical and horizontal bidirectional freezing around the piles, creating an “inverted L-shaped” freezing zone. This bidirectional freezing generates greater tangential frost heave forces, pile frost jacking, and soil displacement around piles compared to concrete piles under identical freezing conditions. The numerical simulation also identifies the critical hydraulic conductivity at which moisture migration in the frozen soil layer ceases and describes the variation of relative ice content with temperature. These findings offer valuable insights into considering soil frost heave and pile displacement when using steel for foundation construction in cold regions, providing guidance for anti-frost heave measures in such environments.