Search Results (7,664)

The analysis of brain data through electroencephalography (EEG) has become essential in neuroscience, affective computing, and brain–computer interfaces. Recent work associates EEG features with artificial neurotransmitter models, simulating emotions and rational–emotional decision-making using complexity theory. However, current methods face limitations: (1) linear temporal representations lacking memory and anticipation, (2) limited contextual adaptation, (3) difficulty with paradoxical affective states, and (4) absence of ethical reasoning in decision-making. We present a framework based on Sophimatics, using complex time ($t=t_{real}+i\cdot t_{imag}\in \mathbb{C}$) where $t_{real}$ represents chronology and $t_{imag}$ encodes experiential dimensions including memory depth and anticipatory imagination. The Super Time Cognitive Neural Network (STCNN) architecture enables the parallel processing of objective time sequences and subjective cognitive experiences. Our Sophimatics-assisted EEG analysis achieves: (1) two-dimensional temporal coherence integrating past experiences and future projections, (2) context-sensitive adaptation via ontological knowledge graphs, (3) interpretable symbolic reasoning compatible with clinical psychology, (4) mechanisms for resolving affective paradoxes, and (5) ethical constraints ensuring value-based decision-making. Across three case studies (emotion recognition, meditation-induced transitions, and brain–computer interface decision support), integrated Sophimatics models outperform traditional machine learning (15–22% accuracy improvement) and complexity theory models (8–14% improvement), while offering greater cognitive richness and immunity to incomplete data. Results establish a post-generative AI framework with computational wisdom: relationally interactive, ethically informed, and temporally consistent with human cognitive and affective life. The framework outlines paths toward next-generation neuromorphic systems achieving genuine understanding beyond pattern recognition. Full article

The increasing diffusion of plant-based milk alternatives poses new challenges at the intersection of food safety and consumer experience, particularly regarding allergen cross-contamination and beverage performance during preparation. Traditional quality control strategies are typically confined to upstream production stages and are unable to address individualized risks and sensory variability at the point of consumption. In this study, we propose an embedded volatilomic sensing approach that combines metal oxide semiconductor (MOX) sensor arrays with lightweight artificial intelligence algorithms to enable real-time, on-device decision-making. The volatilome of four commercially available plant-based milk beverages (oat, almond, soy, and coconut) was characterized using GC–MS/SPME as a reference method, while a MOX-based electronic nose provided rapid, non-destructive sensing of volatile fingerprints. Linear Discriminant Analysis demonstrated clear discrimination among beverage types based on their volatile signatures, supporting the use of MOX sensor arrays as functional descriptors of compositional identity and process-related variability. Beyond beverage classification, the proposed framework is designed to support future implementation of (i) screening for anomalous volatilomic patterns potentially compatible with accidental cow’s milk carryover in shared preparation settings and (ii) adaptive tuning of preparation parameters (e.g., foaming-related settings) in smart beverage systems. The results highlight the role of embedded volatilomic intelligence as a unifying layer between personalized risk-aware screening and sensory-oriented process control, paving the way for intelligent food-processing appliances capable of autonomous, real-time adaptation at the point of consumption. Full article

Archaeological bone artifacts frequently exhibit diminished mechanical integrity as a result of organic matrix degradation. Under adverse environmental conditions, such artifacts are particularly susceptible to surface cracking and disintegration into powder. It is urgently necessary to develop protective materials that possess high permeability, strong reinforcing power and good compatibility. This study evaluated the protective performance of a novel Acrylate Metal Complex (AMC) and two conventional commercial consolidants (acrylic resin Paraloid B72 and ethyl silicate-based material Remmers 300) on fragile bone artifacts. Using simulated samples resembling bone artefacts, a systematic evaluation was conducted to assess the penetration, mechanical reinforcement efficacy, microstructural modifications, chromatic impact, and aging resistance of three consolidants. The results indicate that AMC demonstrates optimal permeation capability and can significantly enhance the surface hardness of bone specimens, achieving an increase of 7.7%. The colorimetric changes observed in all three reinforced materials following treatment remained within acceptable limits (ΔE* < 1.5). Accelerated aging tests—including 300 h of UV irradiation and 30 cycles of alternating dry-wet conditions—demonstrated that bone-mimetic composites reinforced with AMC exhibited significantly superior aging resistance relative to those treated with B72 and Remmers 300. In the actual application verification of the archaeological bone relics, the surface hardness of the reinforced AMC increased by 10%, the wave velocity increased by 14.8%, and there was no glare or crust on the surface. Comprehensive comparison shows that AMC outperforms traditional commercial materials in key performance indicators, demonstrating great potential as a next-generation bone relic conservation material. Full article

The compatibility of insecticides with biological control agents is a critical component of integrated pest management (IPM). In this study, the lethal and sublethal effects of acrinactrin, chlorantraniliprole, flupyradifurone, pyriproxyfen, spinosad, and spiromesifen on the egg stage of Orius niger (Wollf) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) were evaluated under laboratory conditions. Egg hatchability, immature survival, reproductive performance, and population parameters were analyzed using the age-stage, two-sex life table. Egg hatchability was lowest in the acrinactrin treatment (51%) and highest in the pyriproxyfen treatment (93%). Nymphal survival varied from 0% to 80%, with acrinactrin causing complete mortality and a significant reduction in spinosad, while the highest nymphal survival and population growth was recorded in spiromesifen treatment. The intrinsic rate of increase (r, day⁻¹) was 0.00, 0.05, 0.05, 0.08, 0.004, and 0.06 for acrinactrin, chlorantraniliprole, flupyradifurone, pyriproxyfen, spinosad, and spiromesifen, respectively, while fecundity (F, eggs female⁻¹) values were 0, 15.20, 15.83, 42.32, 10.37, and 21.85, respectively. According to the International Organization for Biological Control (IOBC) classification, acrinactrin was harmful, spinosad moderately harmful, and the remaining insecticides slightly harmful to O. niger eggs. Pyriproxyfen and spiromesifen were the most compatible with IPM programs. Caution is warranted for chlorantraniliprole due to its effects on reproductive parameters, whereas spinosad and acrinactrin should be avoided on O. niger eggs. Full article

This study addresses a gap in the literature by explicitly linking responsive web design frameworks to concrete cybersecurity vulnerabilities, moving beyond traditional discussions of usability and device compatibility to incorporate security-by-design principles in contemporary frontend development. The research adopts a qualitative comparative approach and considers five widely used responsive design frameworks: Bootstrap, Tailwind CSS, Foundation, Pure CSS, and Skeleton. These frameworks were selected based on criteria such as maturity, adoption, and architectural diversity. Three research questions guide the analysis: the identification of cybersecurity risks associated with responsive design frameworks, the extent to which these risks vary across frameworks, and the mitigation strategies required to address them. The findings confirm that most critical vulnerabilities originate outside the frontend layer, reinforcing the separation between presentation and backend logic. However, the results demonstrate that frameworks significantly influence the security risk profile, particularly regarding cross-site scripting, dependency management, and configuration practices. Modern utility-first frameworks shift security concerns toward the build pipeline and toolchain, while minimalistic and abandoned frameworks introduce risks related to obsolescence and unpatched “forever-day” vulnerabilities. The study concludes that frontend security depends less on framework choice alone and more on governance, continuous maintenance, and the systematic adoption of secure development and DevSecOps practices. Full article

Epoxy resin (E-51) exhibits excellent adhesion and is widely used in the preparation of functional composite coatings. However, its smooth surface lacking micro/nano composite structures limits its self-cleaning capability and optical properties. Direct incorporation of organic silicone or inorganic fillers often faces severe phase separation and filler agglomeration issues, resulting in defects in coating durability and weather resistance. To address these challenges, this study developed a synergistic modification strategy integrating surface energy modulation with the architectural design of micro/nano-structures. Amino-terminated PDMS undergoes ring-opening addition reactions with epoxy groups in the epoxy resin, while functionalized barium sulfate nanoparticles modified with dual silane coupling agents are incorporated to enhance optical properties. This synergistic approach not only resolved interfacial compatibility but also endowed the PDMS@EP-BaSO₄ coating with outstanding comprehensive properties; the water contact angle increased to 123.5°, demonstrating an easy-to-clean benefit. Visible light reflectance reached 95%, and emissivity rose to 90%. Furthermore, when applied to metal surfaces, the coating exhibited excellent stability against acid–alkali–salt corrosion, extreme temperatures, and ultrasonic agitation. This work provided a novel approach for developing protective coatings that integrated high reflectance, high emissivity, and long-term anti-soiling properties. Full article

The increasing popularity of carnivore and animal-based diets among athletes has generated substantial interest, despite limited direct scientific evidence supporting their efficacy and safety in sport-specific contexts. This narrative review critically evaluates the current evidence and examines the physiological, performance, and health-related implications of these dietary models in athletic populations. These dietary models, characterized by the partial or complete exclusion of plant-derived foods, are often promoted on the basis of mechanistic arguments, anecdotal reports, and extrapolations from research on ketogenic and very low-carbohydrate diets. However, their physiological relevance, long-term health implications, and compatibility with the demands of athletic training remain poorly defined. This narrative review provides a critical perspective on the current evidence related to carnivore and animal-based diets in sport, integrating findings from studies on low-carbohydrate, ketogenic, high-protein, and elimination-based dietary patterns. The analysis focuses on metabolic adaptations, body composition, exercise performance, gastrointestinal function, micronutrient adequacy, hormonal responses, and potential long-term health risks. Particular attention is given to the distinction between metabolic adaptations and functional performance outcomes, as well as to the high interindividual variability in dietary responses. The available evidence suggests that while carbohydrate restriction may induce specific metabolic adaptations, such as increased fat oxidation, these changes do not consistently translate into improved performance, particularly in high-intensity or high-volume training contexts. Moreover, the highly restrictive nature of carnivore and animal-based diets raises concerns about micronutrient deficiencies, alterations in the gut microbiota, changes in the lipid profile, and potential effects on eating behaviours, particularly in competitive athletic populations. Given the absence of well-controlled, long-term intervention studies in athletes, carnivore and animal-based diets cannot currently be recommended as safe or optimal nutritional strategies for sports performance. Rather than representing viable alternatives to established sports nutrition guidelines, these dietary models may be better understood as experimental or short-term tools within highly controlled research or diagnostic frameworks. Future research should prioritize rigorous, sport-specific study designs, long-term safety outcomes, and personalized approaches that account for individual metabolic and physiological variability. Full article

Demodex mites are common commensals of mammalian skin, but under certain conditions, they can cause severe skin diseases. This study analyzed the presence, diversity, and phylogenetic relationships of Demodex species in two wolf subspecies from southern Europe to determine whether species-level differences exist between wild and domestic canids after thousands of years of divergence. A total of 1400 hair samples from 140 wolves were analyzed using a real-time PCR (qPCR) targeting mitochondrial 16S rRNA and nuclear 18S rRNA genes. Overall, 37.1% (52/140; 95% CI: 29.0–45.9%) of wolves were positive for Demodex DNA, with a higher prevalence in Italian (46%) than in Iberian (36%) wolves. The lip and chin areas were the most reliable sampling sites. Four Demodex species were identified in wolves: D. injai and D. canis (associated with dogs), and D. folliculorum and D. brevis (associated with humans). Co-infestations involving multiple Demodex species were recorded for the first time in wild canids. These results challenge the long-held belief of strict host specificity in Demodex mites. The discovery of Demodex species associated with both humans and dogs in wolves supports the idea that host-switching and ecological interactions have occurred throughout the evolution of canids and humans. Such cross-species transfers may have taken place during the early domestication of dogs, representing a plausible scenario compatible with our data. However, given the isolated history of the two southern wolf populations, it is more probable that these findings result from recent interspecific transmission events, likely facilitated by ecological overlap with domestic animals and human environments. Future genomic studies will be essential for clarifying the evolutionary relationships within the genus Demodex and its host associations. Full article

The incorporation of plant-derived oils into cosmetic formulations has attracted increasing interest due to their natural origin, skin compatibility, and multifunctional formulation roles. Argan and castor oils are widely used in cosmetic products as emollient lipid components with intrinsic antioxidant properties. However, limited studies have systematically evaluated the physicochemical stability and antioxidant performance of emulsions combining these two oils. The aim of this study was to develop and comprehensively characterize a stable oil-in-water (O/W) cosmetic emulsion based on argan and castor oils using a natural non-ionic emulsifier (C14–22 Alcohol (and) C12–20 Alkyl Glucoside). Particular emphasis was placed on formulation stability, as it represents a critical prerequisite for further product evaluation. Stability was investigated through thermal stress testing (4–37 °C), centrifugation assays, droplet size analysis, and zeta potential measurements. Complementary physicochemical and structural characterization was performed using rheological analysis and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The formulated emulsion exhibited good physical stability with no phase separation under the tested conditions, a skin-compatible pH, a uniform droplet size distribution (4.15 ± 0.68 µm), and pseudoplastic, moderately thixotropic rheological behavior. Antioxidant capacity was assessed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, yielding an IC₅₀ value of 19.21 ± 1.02 mg/mL. Overall, this study provides a formulation-oriented framework for the development and evaluation of stable natural oil-based O/W emulsions intended for cosmetic applications, supporting future optimization and biological validation. Full article

The mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) is a classic functional assay that models in vitro interactions between responder T cells and allogeneic antigen-presenting cells (APCs). It quantifies the magnitude and quality of alloreactivity, integrating signals from allorecognition, co-stimulation, inflammatory context, and minor histocompatibility antigens that may not be captured by molecular matching alone. This review is narrative in nature and is intended as a practical, non-systematic synthesis of the field. To provide a modern, practice-oriented synthesis of MLR designs, readouts, and translational uses, highlighting how new technologies have expanded MLR from bulk proliferation into multidimensional immune profiling.We summarize why MLR remains valuable as a functional compatibility probe beyond HLA typing, including the high baseline frequency of alloreactive T cells that produces robust signals without priming. We then review key design options (one-way vs. two-way formats; stimulator inactivation; responder definition; APC source and maturation) and how these choices affect interpretation for rejection and graft-versus-host disease risk modeling, tolerance-focused studies, and immunomodulatory screening. Next, we outline major readouts—radiometric and flow cytometric proliferation (dye dilution, Ki-67), cytokine/chemokine profiling, cytotoxicity adaptations, and next-generation add-ons (e.g., scRNA-seq, TCR sequencing)—emphasizing complementary strengths and common pitfalls. Finally, we consolidate practical quality and reproducibility controls (donor variability, dynamic range, timing, batch effects, and acceptance criteria) to improve cross-study comparability and translational readiness. Modern MLR platforms combine controllable allogeneic stimulation with scalable, high-resolution readouts for mechanistic discovery, immune monitoring and translational immune profiling. Standardized modular design and rigorous quality control can improve reproducibility and support broader adoption across transplantation, immunotherapy, and immune-modulation research. Full article

Earthquakes are rare and infrequent natural phenomena with considerable consequences for the urban environment, human life and society. Croatia is a country highly exposed to seismic risks due to its geographical location and its large stock of unreinforced masonry buildings (URM). This article proposes an assessment of their vulnerability by combining a macroseismic approach, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of a group of buildings, with detailed numerical modelling of a building in Zagreb using 3Muri 12.2 software. Three reinforcement techniques are compared in terms of their structural performance, cost, carbon footprint and compatibility with the built heritage. The study shows that each method has advantages and limitations: shotcrete is low-cost but has a high carbon impact and can be too invasive for heritage buildings; FRP offers the best structural performance but remains very expensive, while FRCM appears to be a balanced compromise, combining performance, durability and compliance with architectural conservation constraints. This article highlights the importance of adapting the approach to each situation and combining reliable assessment with appropriate reinforcement solutions. It also invites reflection on the possibility of linking seismic interventions and energy renovations to improve safety, economy, sustainability and living comfort. Full article

The deployment of distributed renewable energy systems at the neighborhood scale is a key lever for urban decarbonization. In Europe, the regulatory framework now enables collective self-consumption, allowing multiple end-users to share locally produced energy. However, the complexity and early-stage uncertainties of such projects, especially in new district development, pose challenges for feasibility assessment and investor confidence. This study proposes a method to identify the impact of numerous technical, economic, and social parameters that may affect the feasibility of a project and that are uncertain at the early design stage, across multiple key performance indicators, thus addressing the concerns of various stakeholders. A key objective is to provide an integrated method applicable during the early stages of district development, when the integration of a collective self-consumption scheme is under consideration. The developed tools and methods are compatible with the available data at this stage and provide a basis for multi-criteria analysis. The simulation workflow was built around URBANopt and enhanced with probabilistic occupancy modeling, energy sharing mechanisms, and financial analysis modules. It was further complemented by sensitivity and risk analysis layers. The method was applied to a pre-design case study, illustrating how key design and operational uncertainties influence project viability. The results showed that despite the uncertainties on a wide array of parameters, reliable risk assessment per KPI could be performed on only a handful of parameters, which were identified through a sensitivity analysis using the Morris screening method. Full article

Background: Ciltacabtagene autoleucel (cilta-cel) and idecabtagene vicleucel (ide-cel) have transformed the treatment landscape of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). Given their recent regulatory approval and limited availability, mainly due to logistical issues, real-world data remain scarce. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted using the TriNetX database, identifying adult patients with RRMM treated with either cilta-cel or ide-cel. The clinical outcomes evaluated included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), as well as the safety profile. Results: A total of 697 patients treated with cilta-cel and 575 with ide-cel were identified. The median age was 65 and 67 years, with ~16% being Black/African American. The 12-month OS was 89.6% for cilta-cel and 86.0% for ide-cel. In a descriptive subgroup analysis, renal impairment (eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m²) seemed to be associated with significantly inferior OS in both cohorts (HR = 3.66, p < 0.001 for cilta-cel; HR = 1.73, p = 0.003 for ide-cel). Conversely, prior anti-CD38 exposure did not seem to impact survival in any of the two treatment groups. Any-grade CRS occurred in 45.9% (cilta-cel) and 41.8% (ide-cel), while any-grade ICANS was observed in 15.4% and 11.8%, respectively. Severe (grade ≥ 3) ICANS remained rare (<3%) in both cohorts. Hematologic toxicity was prevalent, with grade ≥ 3 neutropenia occurring in 76.0% (cilta-cel) and 68.0% (ide-cel). Notably, any-grade infections (28.5–40.1%) and hypogammaglobulinemia (41.1–43.1%) were frequent, highlighting a significant long-term immunosuppressive burden. Conclusions: In these real-world cohorts, both approved CAR T-cell therapies demonstrated favorable survival outcomes. While the incidence of severe hematologic and immune-related toxicities was high, these findings are compatible with published data from clinical trials and it seems that the clinical utility of these drugs overcomes the adverse safety profile. Full article

This paper presents the synthesis, physicochemical characterisation, and analytical applications of chemiluminescent (CL) labels based on acridinium salts (ALs) for biomedical diagnostics. These compounds emit light as a result of oxidative reactions and represent an established class of reagents widely employed in chemiluminescence immunochemical assays (CLIAs) today. A series of structurally differentiated acridinium labels (AL1–AL5) was synthesised applying mostly original synthetic routes and purified to chromatographic purity (>90%, RP-HPLC). The compounds, including a commercial product treated as a reference, were successfully conjugated to anti-human IgG, yielding stable immunochemical reagents suitable for immunoassays with CL detection. The chemiluminescence properties of the obtained labels and their protein conjugates were investigated in aqueous buffers and in the presence of surfactants. The emission profiles exhibited characteristic flash-type kinetics with emission maxima occurring within 0.15–0.25 s after reaction initiation. The presence of surfactants more or less significantly enhanced the emission intensity, with signal increases of up to approx. 2-fold compared to surfactant-free systems. Analytical calibration demonstrated a linear response of signal derived from native labels over at least one order of magnitude of concentration, with detection limits falling in the range of 10⁻⁹–10⁻¹⁰ M, confirming the high sensitivity of the developed compounds. The experimental results were supported by theoretical studies using density functional theory (DFT), which confirmed the energetic feasibility of the CL reaction pathway and identified structural factors influencing activation barriers. Additional semiempirical calculations (PM7) indicated that the dielectric environment and proximity of ionic species can influence the reaction energetics, providing mechanistic support for the experimentally observed effects of surfactants. The results demonstrate that both molecular structure and microenvironment influence CL efficiency and kinetics of the investigated systems. The developed acridinium labels exhibit analytical performance better or comparable to commercial reagents and are fully compatible with standard immunodiagnostic conjugation protocols, confirming their suitability for use in modern chemiluminescent immunoassays. Full article

This study takes the relevant literature published in the past decade as the research object, screens the literature by setting clear inclusion and exclusion criteria, and systematically reviews the thermal insulation performance, durability, and prospects for engineering applications of bio-based thermal insulation materials by means of qualitative integration and comparative analysis. With the advantages of low energy consumption, renewability, and biodegradability, bio-based thermal insulation materials have emerged as a green alternative to traditional thermal insulation materials. This paper systematically reviews the research progress of such materials, which are classified into two categories: natural biomass (e.g., straw bales and cork boards) and bio-based composites. The core thermal insulation indicators include thermal conductivity, thermal resistance, and thermal storage coefficient, and the performance is affected by factors such as component ratio, pore structure, temperature, and humidity. The thermal conductivity of some bio-based materials is comparable to that of expanded polystyrene (EPS) and mineral wool. In terms of durability, temperature–humidity cycling, corrosion, biological erosion, and mechanical action are the main causes of performance degradation, and composite modification can effectively improve their stability. Current engineering applications face challenges such as thermal insulation performance being susceptible to humidity, poor construction compatibility, high costs, and a lack of relevant standards. Future research should focus on the development of high-performance composite systems, the investigation of long-term durability mechanisms, the innovation of low-cost green preparation technologies, and the establishment of unified standards, so as to promote the large-scale application of bio-based thermal insulation materials in the construction industry and contribute to the achievement of carbon neutrality goals. Full article