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Multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic disease of the central nervous system, is known to cause structural and vascular changes in the retina. Although optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fundus photography can detect retinal thinning and circulatory abnormalities, these findings are not specific to MS. This study explores the potential of Infrared Scanning-Laser-Ophthalmoscopy (IR-SLO) imaging to uncover vascular morphological features that may serve as MS-specific biomarkers. Using an age-matched, subject-wise stratified k-fold cross-validation approach, a deep learning model originally designed for color fundus images was adapted to segment optic disc, optic cup, and retinal vessels in IR-SLO images, achieving Dice coefficients of 91%, 94.5%, and 97%, respectively. This process included tailored pre- and post-processing steps to optimize segmentation accuracy. Subsequently, clinically relevant features were extracted. Statistical analyses followed by SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) identified vessel fractal dimension, vessel density in zones B and C (circular regions extending 0.5–1 and 0.5–2 optic disc diameters from the optic disc margin, respectively), along with vessel intensity and width, as key differentiators between MS patients and healthy controls. These findings suggest that IR-SLO can non-invasively detect retinal vascular biomarkers that may serve as additional or alternative diagnostic markers for MS diagnosis, complementing current invasive procedures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI in OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) Image Analysis)

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6 pages, 197 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Contact Line Dynamics and Droplet Spreading

by Alireza Mohammad Karim

Fluids 2025, 10(8), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/fluids10080206 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Contact line motion occurs when a liquid encounters a solid surface [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Contact Line Dynamics and Droplet Spreading)

35 pages, 29912 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hybrid Analysis Model for Detecting Fileless Malware

by Syed Noman Ali Sherazi and Amna Qureshi

Electronics 2025, 14(15), 3134; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14153134 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Fileless malware is a type of malware that does not rely on executable files to persist or propagate. Unlike traditional file-based malware, fileless malware is more difficult to detect and remove, posing a significant threat to organizations. This paper introduces a novel hybrid analysis model that combines static and dynamic analysis techniques to identify fileless malware. Applied to four real-world and two custom-created fileless malware samples, the proposed model demonstrated its qualitative effectiveness in uncovering complex behaviors and evasion tactics, such as obfuscated macros, process injection, registry persistence, and covert network communications, which often bypass single-method analyses. While the analysis reveals the potential for significant damage to organizational reputation, resources, and operations, the paper also outlines a set of mitigation measures that cybersecurity professionals and researchers can adopt to protect users and organizations against threats posed by fileless malware. Overall, this research offers valuable insights and a novel analysis model to better address and understand fileless malware threats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Networks)

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32 pages, 1885 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mapping Linear and Configurational Dynamics to Fake News Sharing Behaviors in a Developing Economy

by Claudel Mombeuil, Hugues Séraphin and Hemantha Premakumara Diunugala

Technologies 2025, 13(8), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies13080341 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

The proliferation of social media has paradoxically facilitated the widespread dissemination of fake news, impacting individuals, politics, economics, and society as a whole. Despite the increasing scholarly research on this phenomenon, a significant gap exists regarding its dynamics in developing countries, particularly how predictors of fake news sharing interact, rather than merely their net effects. To acquire a more nuanced understanding of fake news sharing behavior, we propose identifying the direct and complex interplay among key variables by utilizing a dual analytical framework, leveraging Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) for linear relationships and Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) to uncover asymmetric patterns. Specifically, we investigate the influence of news-find-me orientation, social media trust, information-sharing tendencies, and status-seeking motivation on the propensity of fake news sharing behavior. Additionally, we delve into the moderating influence of social media literacy on these observed effects. Based on a cross-sectional survey of 1028 Haitian social media users, the SEM analysis revealed that news-find-me perception had a negative but statistically insignificant influence on fake news sharing behavior. In contrast, information sharing exhibited a significant negative association. Trust in social media was positively and significantly linked to fake news sharing behavior. Meanwhile, status-seeking motivation was positively associated with fake news sharing behavior, although the association did not reach statistical significance. Crucially, social media literacy moderated the effects of trust and information sharing. Interestingly, fsQCA identified three core configurations for fake news sharing: (1) low status seeking, (2) low information-sharing tendencies, and (3) a unique interaction of low “news-find-me” orientation and high social media trust. Furthermore, low social media literacy emerged as a direct core configuration. These findings support the urgent need to prioritize social media literacy as a key intervention in combating the dissemination of fake news. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Information and Communication Technologies)

50 pages, 6488 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Bio-Inspired Adaptive Probability IVYPSO Algorithm with Adaptive Strategy for Backpropagation Neural Network Optimization in Predicting High-Performance Concrete Strength

by Kaifan Zhang, Xiangyu Li, Songsong Zhang and Shuo Zhang

Biomimetics 2025, 10(8), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10080515 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Accurately predicting the compressive strength of high-performance concrete (HPC) is critical for ensuring structural integrity and promoting sustainable construction practices. However, HPC exhibits highly complex, nonlinear, and multi-factorial interactions among its constituents (such as cement, aggregates, admixtures, and curing conditions), which pose significant challenges to conventional predictive models. Traditional approaches often fail to adequately capture these intricate relationships, resulting in limited prediction accuracy and poor generalization. Moreover, the high dimensionality and noisy nature of HPC mix data increase the risk of model overfitting and convergence to local optima during optimization. To address these challenges, this study proposes a novel bio-inspired hybrid optimization model, AP-IVYPSO-BP, which is specifically designed to handle the nonlinear and complex nature of HPC strength prediction. The model integrates the ivy algorithm (IVYA) with particle swarm optimization (PSO) and incorporates an adaptive probability strategy based on fitness improvement to dynamically balance global exploration and local exploitation. This design effectively mitigates common issues such as premature convergence, slow convergence speed, and weak robustness in traditional metaheuristic algorithms when applied to complex engineering data. The AP-IVYPSO is employed to optimize the weights and biases of a backpropagation neural network (BPNN), thereby enhancing its predictive accuracy and robustness. The model was trained and validated on a dataset comprising 1,030 HPC mix samples. Experimental results show that AP-IVYPSO-BP significantly outperforms traditional BPNN, PSO-BP, GA-BP, and IVY-BP models across multiple evaluation metrics. Specifically, it achieved an R² of 0.9542, MAE of 3.0404, and RMSE of 3.7991 on the test set, demonstrating its high accuracy and reliability. These results confirm the potential of the proposed bio-inspired model in the prediction and optimization of concrete strength, offering practical value in civil engineering and materials design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bio-Inspired Optimization Algorithms and Designs for Engineering Applications: 3rd Edition)

20 pages, 277 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Quantitative Exploration of Australian Dog Breeders’ Breeding Goals, Puppy Rearing Practices and Approaches to Socialisation

by Jessica K. Dawson, Deanna L. Tepper, Matthew B. Ruby, Tiffani J. Howell and Pauleen C. Bennett

Animals 2025, 15(15), 2302; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15152302 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Millions of puppies are welcomed into the homes of families around the world each year. However, understanding the ways in which puppies are bred and raised by their breeders, as well as the perspectives and perceptions underpinning these practices, is still in its infancy. The current study administered an online survey to 200 Australian dog breeders to investigate their breeding program characteristics, breeding dog selection, understanding of the importance of early experiences in puppyhood, and the extent and diversity of their puppy rearing and socialisation practices. Results indicated that breeders were motivated by breed improvement and producing dogs for themselves rather than providing companion dogs, despite most of their puppies being placed in companionship roles. The participating breeders also acknowledged the important role they play in shaping puppies’ behaviour and temperament, which was reflected in both their breeding dog selection and in their rearing and socialisation practices. The majority of breeders housed their litters within their residence for the initial weeks of life but the socialisation experiences they provided were variable in type and frequency. Longer-term breeders and those with larger, more intensive programs reported providing human-focused socialisation experiences less frequently, though the correlational nature of these findings require cautious interpretation. Whilst future research should endeavor to explore these results more comprehensively among a more diverse sample, these findings provide valuable insight into the breeding, rearing, and socialisation process undertaken by dog breeders in Australia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)

21 pages, 4968 KiB

Open AccessArticle

EQResNet: Real-Time Simulation and Resilience Assessment of Post-Earthquake Emergency Highway Transportation Networks

by Zhenliang Liu and Chuxuan Guo

Computation 2025, 13(8), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/computation13080188 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Multiple uncertainties in traffic demand fluctuations and infrastructure vulnerability during seismic events pose significant challenges for the resilience assessment of highway transportation networks (HTNs). While Monte Carlo simulation remains the dominant approach for uncertainty propagation, its high computational cost limits its scalability, particularly in metropolitan-scale networks. This study proposes an EQResNet framework for accelerated post-earthquake resilience assessment of HTNs. The model integrates network topology, interregional traffic demand, and roadway characteristics into a streamlined deep neural network architecture. A comprehensive surrogate modeling strategy is developed to replace conventional traffic simulation modules, including highway status realization, shortest path computation, and traffic flow assignment. Combined with seismic fragility models and recovery functions for regional bridges, the framework captures the dynamic evolution of HTN functionality following seismic events. A multi-dimensional resilience evaluation system is also established to quantify network performance from emergency response and recovery perspectives. A case study on the Sioux Falls network under probabilistic earthquake scenarios demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed method, achieving 95% prediction accuracy while reducing computational time by 90% compared to traditional numerical simulations. The results highlight the framework’s potential as a scalable, efficient, and reliable tool for large-scale post-disaster transportation system analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Computational Engineering)

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19 pages, 1628 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Role of Non-Coding RNAs in the Regulation of Oncogenic Pathways in Breast and Gynaecological Cancers

by Ammar Ansari, Aleksandra Szczesnowska, Natalia Haddad, Ahmed Elbediwy and Nadine Wehida

Non-Coding RNA 2025, 11(4), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna11040061 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Female cancers such as breast and gynaecological cancers contribute to a significant global health burden and are a leading cause of fatality among women. With current treatment options often limited by resistance to cytotoxic drugs, side effects and lack of specificity to the cancer, there is a pressing need for alternative treatments. Recent research has highlighted the promising role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNA) in regulating these issues and providing more targeted approaches to suppressing key cancer pathways. This review explores the involvement of the various types of non-coding RNAs in regulating key oncogenic pathways, namely, the MAPK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Wnt/β-catenin and p53 pathways, in a range of female cancers such as breast, cervical, ovarian and endometrial cancers. Evidence from a multitude of studies suggests that non-coding RNAs function as double-edged swords, serving as both oncogenes and tumour suppressors, depending on their expression and cellular interactions. By mapping and investigating these regulatory interactions, this review demonstrates the complexity and dual functionality of ncRNAs in cancer. Understanding these complex mechanisms is essential for the development of new and effective ncRNA-based diagnostic methods and targeted therapies in female cancer treatment. Full article

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21 pages, 19752 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phase Characterisation for Recycling of Shredded Waste Printed Circuit Boards

by Laurance Donnelly, Duncan Pirrie, Matthew Power and Andrew Menzies

Recycling 2025, 10(4), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling10040157 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

In this study, we adopt a geometallurgical analytical approach common in mineral processing in the characterization of samples of shredded waste printed circuit board (PCB) E-waste, originating from Europe. Conventionally, bulk chemical analysis provides a value for E-waste; however, chemical analysis alone does not provide information on the textural variability, phase complexity, grain size, particle morphology, phase liberation and associations. To address this, we have integrated analysis using binocular microscopy, manual scanning electron microscopy, phase, textural and compositional analyses by automated (SEM-EDS), phase analysis based on (Automated Material Identification and Classification System (AMICS) software, and elemental analysis using micro-XRF. All methods used have strengths and limitations, but an integration of these analytical tools allows the detailed characterization of the texture and composition of the E-waste feeds, ahead of waste reprocessing. These data can then be used to aid the design of optimized processing circuits for the recovery of the key payable components, and assist in the commercial trading of e-scrap. Full article

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24 pages, 1074 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effective BIM Curriculum Development for Construction Management Program Transformation Through a Change Management Lens

by Ki Pyung Kim, Rob Freda and Seoung-Wook Whang

Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2775; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152775 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Integrating BIM curriculum into traditional construction management (CM) programs is essential to meet the increasing industry demand for BIM-ready graduates. However, academia struggles with BIM curriculum integration due to unfamiliar emerging BIM technologies, and the increased workload associated with curriculum transformation. Disciplines including nursing, health science, and medical overcame the same challenges using the ability-desire-knowledge-ability-reinforcement (ADKAR) change management model, while CM programs have not explored this model for BIM curriculum development. Thus, this research introduces the ADKAR change management lens to BIM curriculum development by proposing a practically modified and replicable ADKAR model for CM programs. Focus group interviews with 14 academics from the UK, USA, Korea, and Australia, revealed establishing a sense of urgency by appointing a BIM champion is the most critical step before the BIM curriculum development. Instant advice demystifying uncertain BIM concepts is recognised the most effective motivation among academia. Well-balanced BIM concept integrations is ‘sine qua non’ since excessively saturating BIM aspects across the program can dilute students’ essential domain knowledge. Students’ evaluation over the BIM curriculum were collected through a six-year longitudinal focus group interviews, revealing that progressive BIM learnings scaffolded from foundational concepts to advanced applications throughout their coursework is the most valuable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)

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16 pages, 2067 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Ankle Joint Kinematics in Expected and Unexpected Trip Responses with Dual-Tasking and Physical Fatigue

by Sachini N. K. Kodithuwakku Arachchige, Harish Chander and Adam C. Knight

Biomechanics 2025, 5(3), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics5030062 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Concurrent cognitive tasks, such as avoiding visual, auditory, chemical, and electrical hazards, and concurrent motor tasks, such as load carriage, are prevalent in ergonomic settings. Trips are extremely common in the workplace, leading to fatal and non-fatal fall-related injuries. Intrinsic factors, such as attention, fatigue, and anticipation, as well as extrinsic factors, including tasks at hand, affect trip recovery responses. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the ankle joint kinematics in unexpected and expected trip responses during single-tasking (ST), dual-tasking (DT), and triple-tasking (TT), before and after a physically fatiguing protocol among young, healthy adults. Methods: Twenty volunteers’ (10 females, one left leg dominant, age 20.35 ± 1.04 years, height 174.83 ± 9.03 cm, mass 73.88 ± 15.55 kg) ankle joint kinematics were assessed using 3D motion capture system during unperturbed gait (NG), unexpected trip (UT), and expected trip (ET), during single-tasking (ST), cognitive dual-tasking (CDT), motor dual-tasking (MDT), and triple-tasking (TT), under both PRE and POST fatigue conditions. Results: Greater dorsiflexion angles were observed during UT compared to NG, MDT compared to ST, and TT compared to ST. Significantly greater plantar flexion angles were observed during ET compared to NG and during POST compared to PRE. Conclusions: Greater dorsiflexion angles during dual- and triple-tasking suggest that divided attention affects trip recovery. Greater plantar flexion angles following fatigue are likely an anticipatory mechanism due to altered muscle activity and increased postural control demands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gait and Posture Biomechanics)

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7 pages, 337 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Exposure to PM_2.5 While Walking in the City Center

by Anna Mainka, Witold Nocoń, Aleksandra Malinowska, Julia Pfajfer, Edyta Komisarczyk and Pawel Wargocki

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 34(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025034002 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

This study investigates personal exposure to fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) during walking commutes in Gliwice, Poland—a city characterized by elevated levels of air pollution. Data from a low-cost air quality sensor were compared with a municipal monitoring station and the Silesian University of Technology laboratory. PM_2.5 concentrations recorded by the low-cost sensor (7.3 µg/m³) were lower than those reported by the stationary monitoring sites. The findings suggest that low-cost sensors may offer valuable insights into short-term peaks in PM_2.5 exposure to serve as a practical tool for increasing public awareness of personal exposure risks to protect respiratory health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 7th International Electronic Conference on Atmospheric Sciences (ECAS-7))

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12 pages, 589 KiB

Open AccessConference Report

2024 Annual Meeting of the International Network on Ectopic Calcification (INTEC)—Abstract Proceedings

by M. Leonor Cancela, Ahmed Alouane, Pietro M. Bertelli, Antonio Camacho, Robbe Derudder, Antonella Forlino, Matthew P. Harris, Marta Jacinto, Imre Lengyel, Wolfgang Link, Monzur Murshed, Andreas Pasch, Arun-Kumar Kaliya-Perumal, Daniela Quaglino, Zihan Qin, Yves Sabbagh, Elena Seminari, Marcos M. Villar, Christoph Winkler and Olivier M. Vanakker

Gout Urate Cryst. Depos. Dis. 2025, 3(3), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/gucdd3030014 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

The 3rd Annual Meeting of the International Network on Ectopic Calcification (INTEC) was held in Faro, Portugal on 12–13 September 2024. This hybrid meeting brought together researchers and clinicians focused on the molecular, (patho)physiological, and clinical aspects of ectopic calcification in hereditary and acquired conditions, as well as in aging. The findings presented in this year’s meeting emphasised the complexity of the field, offering new insights into both mechanistic pathways and translational hurdles. The abstracts of this year’s meeting are collected in this conference paper, with permission from the corresponding authors. Full article

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2 pages, 137 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

A Clinically Relevant Cationic Adjuvant System Induces Th17 T Cells Involved in Skin and Upper Airway Infections with Streptococcus pyogenes

by Kristoffer Mazanti Melchiors, Nina Dieu Nhien Tran Nguyen, Sharmila Subratheepam, Ida Rosenkrands, Frank Follmann and Jes Dietrich

Proceedings 2025, 124(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025124003 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, StrepA) is a human pathogen responsible for hundreds of millions of infections each year and remains one of the most prevalent bacterial causes of upper respiratory and skin infections worldwide. Despite its global impact, there is no approved vaccine, and the optimal protective immune response is still not fully understood. In particular, the role of Th17 T cells in immunity against StrepA remains to be explored. We have previously shown that Th17 T cells are induced in humans following StrepA infection. In this study, we investigated the role of Th17 T cells during skin and upper airway StrepA infections. To generate StrepA-specific Th17 T cells, we utilized a novel cationic liposomal adjuvant system. We demonstrated that vaccine-induced Th17 T cells are recruited to the skin and upper airways upon StrepA infection. In the airways, Th17 T cells and IgA correlate with protection, whereas Th1 T cells and IgG do not. To further characterize the recruited Th17 T cells, we used an IL-17 fate-reporter mouse model to track Th17 T cells. Our results show that Th17 T cells outnumber bona fide Th1 T cells in both StrepA-infected skin and upper airways. Surprisingly, most Th17 T cells lose expression of IL-17, and do not express TNFα, IFNγ, and IL-2. Initial single-cell sequencing data suggest the existence of multiple Th17 T cell subsets with distinct expression profiles. We discuss the functional relevance of these subsets in the context of a StrepA infection. Full article

12 pages, 4963 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Bias Voltage and Cr/Al Content on the Mechanical and Scratch Resistance Properties of CrAlN Coatings Deposited by DC Magnetron Sputtering

by Shahnawaz Alam, Zuhair M. Gasem, Nestor K. Ankah and Akbar Niaz

J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2025, 9(8), 264; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp9080264 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Chromium–aluminum nitride (CrAlN) coatings were deposited on polished H13 tool steel substrates using direct current (DC) magnetron sputtering. The Cr/Al composition in the target was varied by inserting either four or eight chromium (Cr) plugs into cavities machined into an aluminum (Al) plate target. Nitrogen was introduced as a reactive gas to facilitate the formation of the nitride phase. Coatings were deposited at substrate bias voltages of −30 V, −50 V, and −60 V to study the combined effects of composition and ion energy on coating properties. Compositional analysis of coatings deposited at a −50 V bias revealed Cr/Al ratios of approximately 0.8 and 1.7 for the 4- and 8-plug configurations, respectively. This increase in the Cr/Al ratio led to a 2.6-fold improvement in coating hardness. Coatings produced using the eight-Cr-plug target exhibited a nearly linear increase in hardness with increasing substrate bias voltage. Cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy revealed a uniform bilayer structure consisting of an approximately 0.5 µm metal interlayer beneath a 2–3 µm CrAlN coating. Surface morphology analysis indicated the presence of coarse microdroplets in coatings with the lower Cr/Al ratio. These microdroplets were significantly suppressed in coatings with higher Cr/Al content, especially at increased bias voltages. This suppression is likely due to enhanced ion bombardment associated with the increased Cr content, attributed to Cr’s relatively higher atomic mass compared to Al. Coatings with lower hardness exhibited greater scratch resistance, likely due to the influence of residual compressive stresses. The findings highlight the critical role of both Cr/Al content and substrate bias in tailoring the tribo-mechanical performance of PVD CrAlN coatings for wear-resistant applications. Full article

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