bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Perception: Chemical Stimuli in Predator Detection and Feeding Behaviour of the Invasive Round Goby Neogobius melanostomus
Authors: Szydłowska Natalia Z. , Franta Pavel , Let Marek , Mikšovská Vendula , Buřič Miloš , Drozd Bořek
Published: June 2024

The round goby Neogobius melanostomus is a notoriously invasive fish originating from the Ponto-Caspian region that in recent decades has successfully spread across the globe. One of its primary impacts is direct predation; in addition, when entering new ecosystems, the round goby is likely to become a food resource for many higher native predators. However, little is known either about the indirect effects of predators on the round goby as prey or its feeding behaviour and activity. The non-consumptive effect of the presence of higher native predators presumably plays an important role in mitigating the impact of non-native round gobies as mesopredators on benthic invertebrate communities, especially when both higher- and mesopredators occupy the same habitat. We tested the food consumption probability and gut evacuation rates in round gobies in response to chemical signals from a higher predator, the European eel Anguilla anguilla. Gobies were placed individually in experimental arenas equipped with shelters and exposed to water from a tank in which (a) the higher predator had actively preyed on a heterospecific prey, earthworms Lumbricus sp. (the heterospecific treatment; HS); (b) the higher predator had fed on round gobies (the conspecific treatment; CS); or (c) the water was provided as a control treatment (C). To ensure exposure to the chemical stimuli, this study incorporated the application of skin extracts containing damaged-released alarm cues from the CS treatment; distilled water was used for the remaining treatments. No significant differences were observed in either the food consumption probability or gut evacuation rate in the tested treatments. Despite the lack of reaction to the chemical stimuli, round gobies did exhibit high evacuation rates (R = 0.2323 ± 0.011 h−1; mean ± SE) in which complete gut clearance occurred within 16 h regardless of the applied treatment. This rapid food processing suggests high efficiency and great pressure on resources regardless of the presence or not of a higher predator. These findings hint at the boldness of round gobies, which did not exhibit any pronounced threat sensitivity. This would seem to suggest great efficiency in food processing and a potential competitive advantage over local native species when colonising new ecosystems, irrespective of the presence of native predators. Our study did not detect any non-consumptive effect attributable to the higher predator, given that the feeding activity of the invasive round goby was not altered.
Comparison of Radiographic Outcomes Assessed via the Radiographic Union Scale for Tibial Fractures and Alkaline Phosphatase Levels during the Tibial Healing Process: A Series of Case Reports
Authors: Ninomiya André Felipe , Bertolucci Vanessa , Kaneko Luisa Oliveira , Nonose Nilson , Abreu Luiza di Loreto , Harfuch Gabriel Rodrigues , dos Reis Ivan Gustavo Masselli , Scariot Pedro Paulo Menezes , Messias Leonardo Henrique Dalcheco
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives: Tibial diaphysis fractures are common injuries resulting from high-to-low-energy traumas in patients of all age groups, but few reports currently provide complementary parameters for the assessment of bone healing processes in the postoperative period. Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and the scores from the Radiographic Union Scale for Tibial Fractures (RUST) can promote new horizons in this context. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the behavior of ALP and RUST through within-subject comparisons from immediately post-surgery to 49 days after tibial diaphysis fracture repair. Methods: This article included four case studies where patients underwent the same procedures. Adults of both sexes aged 18 to 60 years with tibial fractures requiring surgery were included. After surgical intervention (T1), the patients were followed for 49 days after surgery, returning for follow-up appointments on the 21st (T2) and 49th (T3) days. At the follow-up appointments, new X-ray images were obtained, and blood samples were collected for ALP measurement. Results: Serum ALP levels increased by T2 following tibial reamed intramedullary nailing surgery. While this increase persisted into T3 for two patients, a decline was observed during the same period for the other two patients. Both events are indicative of the bone consolidation process, and RUST scores at the T3 corroborate this perspective for all patients included in this study. Considering that delta ALP (T3-T1 value) was lower in patients who exhibited the highest RUST score, we suggest that a synchronized analysis between ALP and RUST allows medics to diagnose bone consolidation. Conclusions: Therefore, it can be concluded that the analysis of ALP alongside RUST may be complementary for evaluating bone consolidation following tibial reamed intramedullary nailing surgery, but future studies are needed to confirm this assertion.
D-Glucose-Mediated Gold Nanoparticle Fabrication for Colorimetric Detection of Foodborne Pathogens
Authors: Park Seo Yeon , Sivakumar Rajamanickam , Lee Nae Yoon
Published: June 2024

Gold nanoparticle (AuNP) fabrication via the oxidation of D-glucose is applied for detecting two foodborne pathogens, Enterococcus faecium (E. faecium) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). D-glucose is used as a reducing agent due to its oxidation to gluconic acid by sodium hydroxide (NaOH), resulting in the formation of AuNPs. Based on this mechanism, we develop AuNP-based colorimetric detection in conjunction with loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for accurately identifying the infectious bacteria. Here, Au+ ions bind to the base of double-stranded DNA. In the presence of D-glucose and NaOH, the LAMP amplicon-Au+ complex maintains its bound state at 65 °C for 10 min while it is reduced to AuNPs in a dispersed form, exhibiting a red color. We aimed to pre-mix D-glucose with LAMP reagents before amplification and induce successful colorimetry without inhibiting amplification to simplify the experimental process and decrease the reaction time. Therefore, the entire process, including LAMP and colorimetric detection, is accomplished in approximately 1 h. The limit of detection of E. faecium and S. aureus is confirmed using the introduced method as 101 CFU/mL and 100 fg/μL, respectively. We expect that colorimetric detection using D-glucose-mediated AuNP synthesis offers an application for simple and immediate molecular diagnosis.
The Androgen Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate Shows a Greater Relationship with Impulsivity than Testosterone in a Healthy Male Sample
Authors: Aluja Anton , Balada Ferran , García Óscar , Aymamí Neus , García Luis F.
Published: June 2024

This study was designed to examine the relationships among the impulsivity construct as a personality trait, the dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), and testosterone in a sample of 120 healthy middle-aged males (Mage = 44.39; SD = 12.88). The sum of the three BIS-11 scales, the SR, and the five UPPS-P scales correlated with DHEA-S 0.23 (p < 0.006) and testosterone 0.19 (p < 0.04), controlling for age. Partial correlations showed that DHEA-S was significantly related to motor impulsivity (0.24; p < 0.008), Sensitivity to Reward (0.29; p < 0.002), Lack of Premeditation (0.26; p < 0.05), and, to a lesser extent, Sensation Seeking (0.19; p < 0.04) and Positive Urgency (0.19; p < 0.04). Testosterone correlated with attention impulsivity (0.18; p < 0.04), Sensation Seeking (0.18; p < 0.04), and Positive Urgency (0.22; p < 0.01). Sensitivity to Reward, Negative Urgency, and Positive Urgency were significant predictors of DHEA-S (R2 = 0.28), and Positive Urgency for testosterone (R2 = 0.09). Non-parametric LOESS graphical analyses for local regression allowed us to visualize the non-linear relationships between the impulsivity scales with the two androgens, including non-significant trends. We discuss the implications of these results for impulsive biological personality traits, the limitations of our analyses, and the possible development of future research.
Comparative Analysis on Vestibular Schwannoma Surgery with and without Intraoperative Fluorescein Sodium Enhancement
Authors: Alomari Amer A. , Eid Sadeen Sameer , Fraschetti Flavia , Michelini Silvia , Mastronardi Luciano
Published: June 2024

Background: Vestibular schwannoma (VS), also known as acoustic neuroma, is a benign, well-encapsulated, and slow-growing tumor that originates from Schwann cells, which form the myelin sheath around the vestibulocochlear nerve (VIII cranial nerve). The surgical treatment of this condition presents a challenging task for surgeons, as the tumor’s location and size make it difficult to remove without causing damage to the surrounding structures. In recent years, fluorescein sodium (FS) has been proposed as a tool to enhance surgical outcomes in VS surgery. This essay will provide an analytical comparison of the use of FS in VS surgery, evaluating its benefits and limitations and comparing surgical outcomes with and without FS-assisted surgery. Methods: In a retrospective study conducted at San Filippo Neri Hospital, we examined VS cases that were operated on between January 2017 and December 2023. The patients were divided into two groups: group A, which consisted of patients who underwent surgery without the use of FS until January 2020 (102 cases), and group B, which included patients who underwent surgery with FS after January 2020 (55 cases). All operations were performed using the retrosigmoid approach, and tumor size was classified according to the Koos, et al. classification system. The extent of surgical removal was evaluated using both the intraoperative surgeon’s opinion and postoperative MRI imaging. Preoperatively and postoperatively, facial nerve function and hearing were assessed. In group B, FS was used to assist the surgical procedures, which were performed using a surgical microscope equipped with an integrated fluorescein filter. Postoperative clinical and MRI controls were performed at six months and annually, with no patients lost to follow-up. Results: This study investigated the impact of intraoperative fluorescein exposure on tumor resection and clinical outcomes in patients with VS. The study found a statistically significant difference in the tumor resection rates between patients who received fluorescein intraoperatively (p = 0.037). Further analyses using the Koos classification system revealed a significant effect of fluorescein exposure, particularly in the Koos 3 subgroup (p = 0.001). Notably, no significant differences were observed in hearing loss or facial nerve function between the two groups. A Spearman correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between tumor size and Koos, age, and size, but no significant correlation was found between facial nerve function tests. Conclusions: FS-assisted surgery for VS may potentially enhance tumor resection, allowing for more comprehensive tumor removal.
Evaluation of the Effect of C9 Petroleum Resin on Rheological Behavior, Microstructure, and Chemical Properties of Styrene–Butadiene–Styrene Modified Asphalt
Authors: Yan Chaoqun , Zhang Taoli , Hu Kui , Gillani Syed Tafheem Abbas , Zhang Wengang
Published: June 2024

Understanding the modification mechanism of C9 petroleum resin (C9PR) on styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS) polymer modified asphalt properties is of significant importance. In this paper, dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), storage stability, fluorescence morphology (FM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform-infrared (FTIR) spectrometer, and molecular dynamic (MD) simulation were adopted to evaluate the rheological, chemical, and microstructure molecular motion state of C9PR and SBS composite modified asphalt at different aging states. The DSR storage results indicate that the addition of C9PR could improve the high-temperature property, storage stability, and temperature susceptibility. FM and SEM results indicate that the network microstructure was enhanced and the roughness between polymer resins and virgin asphalt was improved at the microscopic scale. The MD results indicate that the heterogeneity between C9PR and SBS modified asphalt was demonstrated, and the bonding energies were enhanced with the addition of C9PR. Moreover, the FTIR results indicate that new function groups were generated in addition to C9PR. In general, the addition of C9PR is a good approach to promote high-quality polymer modified asphalt (PMA) for pavement engineering.
Case Study of Space Optimization Simulation of Existing Office Buildings Based on Thermal Buffer Effect
Authors: Gan Shenqi , Chen Wenxiang , Feng Jiawang
Published: June 2024

This paper takes an old office building in Hefei as the research object to explore the influence of the thermal buffering performance of the case building buffer space on the air speed and thermal environment of the office space based on the field measurement and simulation. As the thermal buffer layer of the main space, the buffer space is the layout mode that follows the thermal transfer law. Building buffer space variables were evaluated and compared by orthogonal tests to determine the better combination of buffer space sizes. The results show that when the air speed is taken as the evaluation index, the influence of each buffer space on the indoor environment is ordered: courtyard > corridor > foyer; when the temperature is taken as the evaluation index, the influence of each buffer space on the indoor environment is ordered: courtyard > foyer > corridor. From the perspective of green transformation, this paper selects two better schemes. Through comparison, it is found that when the buffer space size is: corridor (16 m × 2 m × 3.3 m), courtyard (16 m × 12 m) and foyer (7.2 m × 6 m × 3.3 m) is the optimal scheme, the indoor air speed is increased by 0.1 m/s, and the temperature is reduced to 27.0 °C, which is within the thermal comfort range of the human body. It is found that optimizing the buffer space size of the case building can effectively improve its indoor air speed and thermal environment, and provide theoretical basis and reference for the green transformation of existing buildings of the same type in this area.
The Environmental Influencing Factors of the Realization of Engineering Construction Harmony from the Perspective of Ren–Shi–Wu: Evidence from China
Authors: Zuo Weiwei , Yan Ning , Wang Qiankun
Published: June 2024

Engineering construction involves many internal factors and external environmental factors, resulting in conflict or uncoordinated problems in engineering management. The harmonious management of engineering construction is the process of coordinating and solving the contradiction between construction elements and the problems between them and the external environment. The connotations of three subsystems of engineering harmony, namely, Ren harmony (RH), Wu harmony (WH), and Shi harmony (SH), are defined, and the system architecture of engineering harmony is constructed. Then, a hypothetical model is proposed to deeply explore the impacts of subsystems such as Ren harmony, Wu harmony, and Shi harmony on engineering harmony, as well as the moderating effects of the natural ecology, social humanities, and political economy on engineering harmony. The results show that (1) natural ecology has a significant promotion effect on RH, SH, and engineering harmony; (2) social humanities have a significant enhancement effect on SH and engineering harmony; and (3) political economy does not play a significant role in any process. “Engineering harmony” is used to measure the effectiveness of engineering management, and a scientific scale is used to reflect this index. It provides a new idea for theoretical exploration and practical guidance in engineering construction management.
Evaluating Accessibility Solutions in Collective Residential Buildings: Field Research in Southeast Spain
Authors: Mayordomo-Martínez Diego , García-Mateos Ginés
Published: June 2024

With the ageing of the population in Western countries, the prevalence of disability and mobility problems is increasing, highlighting the urgent need to improve accessibility in environments where people spend a significant amount of time, such as collective housing. This paper examines the accessibility of building entrances in collective housing in the Region of Murcia, south-eastern Spain, where 9.8% of the population is estimated to live with disabilities. Starting with a thorough review of national and regional accessibility regulations, this study applies a robust methodology by conducting fieldwork in 150 buildings to assess compliance and identify barriers. The methodology involved a systematic assessment of the accessibility of entrances, using criteria derived from the regulations, and a specific proposal of the accessibility solutions required for each case. The key findings show that the most effective way for improving the accessibility is a properly constructed ramp, with over 40% of buildings requiring the installation or improvement of ramps, either as a stand-alone solution or in combination with other adaptations. In 54% of cases, a multi-faceted approach was required to meet accessibility standards. It was also noted that older buildings typically require higher adaptation costs. Based on these findings, the study provides specific recommendations, such as the construction of ramps and other critical interventions, to improve the accessibility of buildings. These recommendations have the potential to guide public policy and drive improvements in urban planning to make residential areas more accessible.
Water Resistance of Acrylic Adhesive Tapes for Rooftop Fastening
Authors: Machalická Klára V. , Sejkot Petr , Vokáč Miroslav , Pokorný Petr , Obradović Vera
Published: June 2024

Rooftop solar modules are usually held in place by racks or frames that are mechanically attached to a roof structure and/or by heavyweight, ballasted footing mounts. These mounts ensure that the panel system remains in position against wind load. However, mechanical connectors create penetrations into the water-resistant layer of the roof, whereas ballasted footing mounts cause a significant additional load on the load-bearing structure of roof. For these reasons, adhesive connection seems to be a beneficial solution. Acrylic adhesive tapes, marked as VHBTM, may provide sufficient strength, and they have no need for mechanical fasteners or ballast. Acrylic adhesive tapes also provide a comfortable, fast, and efficient bonding process with no curing compared to liquid adhesives. On the other hand, resistance to water at load-bearing joints has not been sufficiently studied yet and could be critical for connections exposed to the outdoor environment. The present study aims at the determination of water resistance and durability of the VHBTM tapes from the GPH series, which are typically used to bond a variety of substrates including many metals. The mechanical properties and failure modes are compared for the specimens before and after a 21-day immersion in water. A significant reduction in strength was observed, depending on the substrate material. The study of chemical changes in the acrylic tape and in its leachate through infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray fluorescence, and X-ray diffraction analyses clarified the reduction in mechanical properties. The selected VHBTM tape demonstrated strong resistance to the effects of water. However, the overall strength of the joint after immersion was significantly impacted by the decrease in adhesion to a specific substrate.
Linking Occupant Behavior and Window Design through Post-Occupancy Evaluation: Enhancing Natural Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality
Authors: Pourtangestani Mojgan , Izadyar Nima , Jamei Elmira , Vrcelj Zora
Published: June 2024

This study investigates how window design features, such as size, placement, and orientation, might impact occupants’ behavior related to natural ventilation in residential houses and how residents manage natural ventilation to affect indoor air quality (IAQ), comfort, and energy efficiency. By analyzing responses from a questionnaire distributed among 200 occupants, this article reveals that stuffy air, perceived outdoor pollutants, odors, and relative humidity, along with factors like inadequate ventilation, temperature fluctuations, and energy consumption concerns, emerge as primary issues affecting occupants’ comfort and well-being. This study proposes design recommendations for enhancing IAQ, including optimal window placement for cross-ventilation, window-to-wall ratio (WWR) considerations, and the integration of smart window technologies. This research recognizes that window design is not just a technical matter but involves understanding social and behavioral factors as well. By analyzing occupant responses, it aims to provide insights into the socio-technical parameters that should be considered in window design. The findings offer valuable strategies for architects, designers, and homeowners to optimize natural ventilation and underscore the importance of an occupant-centered approach in sustainable building design.
Energy Efficiency Analysis of Building Envelope Renovation and Photovoltaic System in a High-Rise Hotel Building in Indonesia
Authors: Riantini Leni Sagita , Machfudiyanto Rossy Armyn , Rachmawati Titi Sari Nurul , Rachman Mochamad Daffa Alfiansyah , Fachrizal Reza , Shadram Farshid
Published: June 2024

The development of high-rise buildings worldwide has given rise to significant concerns regarding their excessive electricity consumption. Among the various categories of high-rise structures, hotels used for business and conferences stand out as particularly extravagant in their energy use. The consequence arising from excessive energy usage is an escalation in carbon emissions, which is a primary driver of global warming. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the energy use intensity (EUI) of a hotel building located in Jakarta, Indonesia. In order to improve energy performance, this study explored various options for renovating the building envelope, such as incorporating insulation and a roof covering, as well as implementing building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). The building envelope renovations demonstrated a notable reduction in energy use by 15.8–27.7% per year. BIPV, such as curtain walls and double-skin façades, generated an energy use reduction of 4.8–8.6% per year. Remarkably, by combining the two approaches (i.e., adding insulation and a roof covering in the building envelope and adopting BIPV as double-skin façades), the potential reduction in energy use reached up to 32.2% per year. The findings can assist decision-makers in developing building renovation strategies for high-rise buildings while considering energy conservation.
Research on the Current Situation and Calculation Method of Carbon Emissions Assessment for Building Curtain Walls
Authors: Zhang Xichen , Fu Xiangqiu , Zheng Xiuchun , Li Shunmou , Zhao Qian , Lin Jinjie
Published: June 2024

Curtain wall systems stand out as a pivotal domain within the construction sector’s endeavors towards energy efficiency and carbon mitigation. To refine the evaluation framework for carbon emissions within this industry, this paper explores the calculation and assessment method for building curtain walls. The article first reviews the current research status regarding carbon emissions from materials and the impact of curtain walls on buildings in the operational stage. Based on lifecycle theory, the carbon emissions from building curtain walls are divided into six stages: material acquisition, processing and production, installation and construction, transportation, use and maintenance, and dismantling. On this basis, this paper proposes a method for calculating carbon emissions from building curtain walls. Following that, a case study is conducted using a specific glass curtain wall project for illustrative analysis. The results indicate that the carbon emissions from the material acquisition stage constitute approximately 90% of the total, serving as the primary source of carbon emissions for glass curtain walls. Furthermore, the scientific application of photovoltaics can significantly reduce the carbon emission levels of building curtain walls. Finally, an analysis was conducted on the current issues existing in the evaluation of carbon emissions.
Embracing Survivalist Entrepreneurship: How African American Men Leverage Business Ownership out of Economic Necessity
Authors: Jackson Frederick , D’Innocenzo Lauren , Gefen David
Published: June 2024

There has been extensive research and examination dedicated to the advantages and disadvantages of entrepreneurship, both in general and specifically for African Americans. Significant research has been devoted to understanding the economic outcomes of African American men, and there is an area of opportunity to study how African American men, specifically, can leverage entrepreneurship to increase the probability of successful economic outcomes for themselves and their families. Entrepreneurial research has the potential to be leveraged to combat waning labor force participation rates and heightened unemployment rates among African American men. Leveraging the theories of Trust, Goal-Orientation, Logotherapy, and Social Identity Theory, a study was conducted among United States-based business owners. The sample size was forty-one African American male business owners. The results demonstrate how these African American men have leveraged entrepreneurship to build social capital and wealth, while improving their standard of living, as well as highlight the hurdles and barriers they have endured during the process of business ownership. The majority of African American owned business are owned by African American men, and this study provides insights into the phenomenology of African American male entrepreneurs.
Flow Cytometry Profiling of Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasms
Authors: El Hussein Siba , Wang Wei
Published: June 2024

In this review, we aim to provide a summary of the diverse immunophenotypic presentations of distinct entities associated with plasmacytoid dendritic cell (pDC) proliferation. These entities include the following: (1) blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN); (2) mature pDC proliferation (MPDCP), most commonly seen in chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML); and (3) myeloid neoplasms with pDC differentiation, in which pDCs show a spectrum of maturation from early immature pDCs to mature forms, most commonly seen in acute myeloid leukemia (pDC-AML). Our aim is to provide a flow cytometry diagnostic approach to these distinct and sometimes challenging entities and to clarify the immunophenotypic spectrum of neoplastic pDCs in different disease presentations. In this review, we also cover the strategies in the evaluation of residual disease, as well as the challenges and pitfalls we face in the setting of immune and targeted therapy. The differential diagnosis will also be discussed, as blasts in some AML cases can have a pDC-like immunophenotype, mimicking pDCs.
Spontaneous Tumor Regression and Reversion: Insights and Associations with Reduced Dietary Phosphate
Authors: Brown Ronald B.
Published: June 2024

Tumors that spontaneously shrink from unknown causes in tumor regression, and that return to normal cells in tumor reversion, are phenomena with the potential to contribute new knowledge and novel therapies for cancer patient survival. Tumorigenesis is associated with dysregulated phosphate metabolism and an increased transport of phosphate into tumor cells, potentially mediated by phosphate overload from excessive dietary phosphate intake, a significant problem in Western societies. This paper proposes that reduced dietary phosphate overload and reregulated phosphate metabolism may reverse an imbalance of kinases and phosphatases in cell signaling and cellular proliferation, thereby activating autophagy in tumor regression and reversion. Dietary phosphate can also be reduced by sickness-associated anorexia, fasting-mimicking diets, and other diets low in phosphate, all of which have been associated with tumor regression. Tumor reversion has also been demonstrated by transplanting cancer cells into a healthy microenvironment, plausibly associated with normal cellular phosphate concentrations. Evidence also suggests that the sequestration and containment of excessive phosphate within encapsulated tumors is protective in cancer patients, preventing the release of potentially lethal amounts of phosphate into the general circulation. Reducing dietary phosphate overload has the potential to provide a novel, safe, and effective reversion therapy for cancer patients, and further research is warranted.
Exploring Syndecan-4 and MLP and Their Interaction in Primary Cardiomyocytes and H9c2 Cells
Authors: Støle Thea Parsberg , Lunde Marianne , Gehmlich Katja , Christensen Geir , Louch William E. , Carlson Cathrine Rein
Published: June 2024

The transmembrane proteoglycan syndecan-4 is known to be involved in the hypertrophic response to pressure overload. Although multiple downstream signaling pathways have been found to be involved in this response in a syndecan-4-dependent manner, there are likely more signaling components involved. As part of a larger syndecan-4 interactome screening, we have previously identified MLP as a binding partner to the cytoplasmic tail of syndecan-4. Interestingly, many human MLP mutations have been found in patients with hypertrophic (HCM) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). To gain deeper insight into the role of the syndecan-4–MLP interaction and its potential involvement in MLP-associated cardiomyopathy, we have here investigated the syndecan-4–MLP interaction in primary adult rat cardiomyocytes and the H9c2 cell line. The binding of syndecan-4 and MLP was analyzed in total lysates and subcellular fractions of primary adult rat cardiomyocytes, and baseline and differentiated H9c2 cells by immunoprecipitation. MLP and syndecan-4 localization were determined by confocal microscopy, and MLP oligomerization was determined by immunoblotting under native conditions. Syndecan-4–MLP binding, as well as MLP self-association, were also analyzed by ELISA and peptide arrays. Our results showed that MLP-WT and syndecan-4 co-localized in many subcellular compartments; however, their binding was only detected in nuclear-enriched fractions of isolated adult cardiomyocytes. In vitro, syndecan-4 bound to MLP at three sites, and this binding was reduced in some HCM-associated MLP mutations. While MLP and syndecan-4 also co-localized in many subcellular fractions of H9c2 cells, these proteins did not bind at baseline or after differentiation into cardiomyocyte-resembling cells. Independently of syndecan-4, mutated MLP proteins had an altered subcellular localization in H9c2 cells, compared to MLP-WT. The DCM- and HCM-associated MLP mutations, W4R, L44P, C58G, R64C, Y66C, K69R, G72R, and Q91L, affected the oligomerization of MLP with an increase in monomeric at the expense of trimeric and tetrameric recombinant MLP protein. Lastly, two crucial sites for MLP self-association were identified, which were reduced in most MLP mutations. Our data indicate that the syndecan-4–MLP interaction was present in nuclear-enriched fractions of isolated adult cardiomyocytes and that this interaction was disrupted by some HCM-associated MLP mutations. MLP mutations were also linked to changes in MLP oligomerization and self-association, which may be essential for its interaction with syndecan-4 and a critical molecular mechanism of MLP-associated cardiomyopathy.
Impact of Oncogenic Changes in p53 and KRAS on Macropinocytosis and Ferroptosis in Colon Cancer Cells and Anticancer Efficacy of Niclosamide with Differential Effects on These Two Processes
Authors: Nguyen Nhi T. , Sennoune Souad R. , Dharmalingam-Nandagopal Gunadharini , Sivaprakasam Sathish , Bhutia Yangzom D. , Ganapathy Vadivel
Published: June 2024

Mutations in p53 and KRAS are seen in most cases of colon cancer. The impact of these mutations on signaling pathways related to cancer growth has been studied in depth, but relatively less is known on their effects on amino acid transporters in cancer cells. This represents a significant knowledge gap because amino acid nutrition in cancer cells profoundly influences macropinocytosis and ferroptosis, two processes with opposing effects on tumor growth. Here, we used isogenic colon cancer cell lines to investigate the effects of p53 deletion and KRAS activation on two amino acid transporters relevant to macropinocytosis (SLC38A5) and ferroptosis (SLC7A11). Our studies show that the predominant effect of p53 deletion is to induce SLC7A11 with the resultant potentiation of antioxidant machinery and protection of cancer cells from ferroptosis, whereas KRAS activation induces not only SLC7A11 but also SLC38A5, thus offering protection from ferroptosis as well as improving amino acid nutrition in cancer cells via accelerated macropinocytosis. Niclosamide, an FDA-approved anti-helminthic, blocks the functions of SLC7A11 and SLC38A5, thus inducing ferroptosis and suppressing macropinocytosis, with the resultant effective reversal of tumor-promoting actions of oncogenic changes in p53 and KRAS. These findings underscore the potential of this drug in colon cancer treatment.
Inhibition of PIKfyve Leads to Lysosomal Disorders via Dysregulation of mTOR Signaling
Authors: Xia Jianhong , Wang Haiyun , Zhong Zhihang , Jiang Jun
Published: June 2024

PIKfyve is an endosomal lipid kinase that synthesizes phosphatidylinositol 3,5-biphosphate from phosphatidylinositol 3-phsphate. Inhibition of PIKfyve activity leads to lysosomal enlargement and cytoplasmic vacuolation, attributed to impaired lysosomal fission processes and homeostasis. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying these effects remain a topic of debate. In this study, we present findings from PIKfyve-deficient zebrafish embryos, revealing enlarged macrophages with giant vacuoles reminiscent of lysosomal storage disorders. Treatment with mTOR inhibitors or effective knockout of mTOR partially reverses these abnormalities and extend the lifespan of mutant larvae. Further in vivo and in vitro mechanistic investigations provide evidence that PIKfyve activity is essential for mTOR shutdown during early zebrafish development and in cells cultured under serum-deprived conditions. These findings underscore the critical role of PIKfyve activity in regulating mTOR signaling and suggest potential therapeutic applications of PIKfyve inhibitors for the treatment of lysosomal storage disorders.
Unravelling the Mysteries of the Sonic Hedgehog Pathway in Cancer Stem Cells: Activity, Crosstalk and Regulation
Authors: Berrino Carlo , Omar Aadilah
Published: June 2024

The Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signalling pathway plays a critical role in normal development and tissue homeostasis, guiding cell differentiation, proliferation, and survival. Aberrant activation of this pathway, however, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various cancers, largely due to its role in regulating cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs are a subpopulation of cancer cells with the ability to self-renew, differentiate, and initiate tumour growth, contributing significantly to tumorigenesis, recurrence, and resistance to therapy. This review focuses on the intricate activity of the Shh pathway within the context of CSCs, detailing the molecular mechanisms through which Shh signalling influences CSC properties, including self-renewal, differentiation, and survival. It further explores the regulatory crosstalk between the Shh pathway and other signalling pathways in CSCs, highlighting the complexity of this regulatory network. Here, we delve into the upstream regulators and downstream effectors that modulate Shh pathway activity in CSCs. This review aims to cast a specific focus on the role of the Shh pathway in CSCs, provide a detailed exploration of molecular mechanisms and regulatory crosstalk, and discuss current and developing inhibitors. By summarising key findings and insights gained, we wish to emphasise the importance of further elucidating the interplay between the Shh pathway and CSCs to develop more effective cancer therapies.
Correction: Ahmed et al. Assessing the Rainfall Water Harvesting Potential Using Geographical Information Systems (GIS). CivilEng 2022, 3, 895–908
Authors: Ahmed Afzal , Valyrakis Manousos , Ghumman Abdul Razzaq , Arshad Muhammad , Pasha Ghufran Ahmed , Farooq Rashid , Janjua Shahmir
Published: June 2024

In the original publication [1], there were two mistakes in relation to the cited references (within the References section) as follows:Reference 52 (Xin-gang et al [...]
Influence of Healthcare Delivery Type on Patients’ Mental Health: Is Hospitalization Always a Stressful Factor? Can Allostatic Load Help Assess a Patient’s Psychological Disorders?
Authors: Gómez García Ana María , García-Rico Eduardo
Published: June 2024

Background: Psychological distress is a predictor of future health and disease data, with consequent implications for both the patient and the healthcare system. Taking advantage of the unprecedented situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic we aimed to assess whether the type of medical care received by patients during the initial months of the pandemic influenced their evolution, particularly at the psychological level. Additionally, we investigated whether allostatic load was associated not only with physical but also psychological alterations. Methods: All the patients diagnosed with COVID-19 infection at HM Madrid Hospital during the month of March 2020 were studied, both those hospitalized (110) and those treated on an outpatient basis (46). They were psychologically evaluated using the Profile of Mood States (POMS) test. We calculated the allostatic load using different laboratory parameters. Results: Outpatient patients had significantly higher scores than hospitalized ones in Tension-Anxiety (52 ± 19.3 vs. 38 ± 4.3; p < 0.001). So, 36.9% of the outpatient patients exhibited anxiety. Allostatic load has not been correlated with patients’ psychological alterations. Conclusions: Psychological distress of outpatient patients should be taken into account in their management to improve mental health planning. This knowledge could provide comprehensive care to patients including their mental health, in the face of subsequent epidemics/pandemics.
Drugs Associated with Adverse Effects in Vulnerable Groups of Patients
Authors: Ștefan Claudia Simona , Nechita Aurel , Dragostin Oana-Maria , Fulga Ana , Lisă Elena-Lăcrămioara , Vatcu Rodica , Dragostin Ionut , Velicescu Cristian , Fulga Iuliu
Published: June 2024

In recent years, a series of recommendations have been issued regarding the administration of drugs because of awareness of the serious side effects associated with certain classes of drugs, especially in vulnerable patients. Taking into account the obligation of the continuous improvement of professionals in the medical fields and the fact that we are in the midst of a “malpractice accusations pandemic”, through this work, we propose to carry out a “radiography” of the scientific literature regarding adverse effects that may occur as a result of the interaction of drugs with the physiopathological particularities of patients. The literature reports various cases regarding different classes of drugs administration associated with adverse effects in the elderly people, such as fluoroquinolones, which can cause torsade de pointes or tendinopathy, or diuretics, which can cause hypokalemia followed by torsade de pointes and cardiorespiratory arrest. Also, children are more prone to the development of adverse reactions due to their physiological particularities, while for pregnant women, some drugs can interfere with the normal development of the fetus, and for psychiatric patients, the use of neuroleptics can cause agranulocytosis. Considering the physiopathological particularities of each patient, the drug doses must be adjusted or even completely removed from the treatment scheme, thus requiring the mandatory active participation both of clinician pharmacists and specialists in the activity of medical-pharmaceutical analysis laboratories within the structure of hospitals.
SleepSync: Early Testing of a Personalised Sleep–Wake Management Smartphone Application for Improving Sleep and Cognitive Fitness in Defence Shift Workers
Authors: Varma Prerna , Postnova Svetlana , Knock Stuart , Howard Mark E. , Aidman Eugene , Rajaratnam Shantha W. M. , Sletten Tracey L.
Published: June 2024

Shift work, long work hours, and operational tasks contribute to sleep and circadian disruption in defence personnel, with profound impacts on cognition. To address this, a digital technology, the SleepSync app, was designed for use in defence. A pre-post design study was undertaken to examine whether four weeks app use improved sleep and cognitive fitness (high performance neurocognition) in a cohort of shift workers from the Royal Australian Air Force. In total, 13 of approximately 20 shift-working personnel from one base volunteered for the study. Sleep outcomes were assessed using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS), Sleep Disturbance and Sleep-Related Impairment Scales, the Glasgow Sleep Effort Scale, the Sleep Hygiene Index, and mental health was assessed using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21. Sustained attention was measured using the 3-min Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT) and controlled response using the NBack. Results showed significant improvements in insomnia (ISI scores 10.31 at baseline and 7.50 after app use), sleep-related impairments (SRI T-scores 53.03 at baseline to 46.75 post-app use), and healthy sleep practices (SHI scores 21.61 at baseline to 18.83 post-app use; all p < 0.001). Trends for improvement were recorded for depression. NBack incorrect responses reduced significantly (9.36 at baseline; reduced by −3.87 at last week of app use, p < 0.001), but no other objective measures improved. These findings suggest that SleepSync may improve sleep and positively enhance cognitive fitness but warrants further investigation in large samples. Randomised control trials with other cohorts of defence personnel are needed to confirm the utility of this intervention in defence settings.
Spatial and Temporal Variation of C, N, and S Stable Isotopes and Seagrass Coverage Related to Eutrophication Stress in Zostera marina
Authors: Waddell Jerrica M. , Pater Christina C. , Coffin Michael R. S. , Gilmour Robert F. , Courtenay Simon C. , van den Heuvel Michael R.
Published: June 2024

Zostera marina is an ecologically valuable species that has been declining due to anthropogenic environmental stressors. In this study, spatial and temporal indicators of eelgrass stress, such as coverage and biomass, were compared with the isotopic composition of C, N, and S to understand the mechanism(s) of plant stress. Eelgrass samples were collected in June, July, and August of 2020 at five stations along an estuary spatial gradient in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence to measure above- and below-ground biomass and tissue isotopes in eelgrass leaves and roots/rhizomes. Eelgrass biomass was lowest at the innermost sampling station, which coincided with eutrophication-induced hypoxia relative to outer sampling stations. δ13C levels at the upstream station were depleted compared to downstream stations. Comparatively, δ15N and δ34S findings were not correlated with plant biomass. Thus, sulfide intrusion was not a major stressor for eelgrass in this estuary. Between the years 2014 and 2020, eelgrass coverage was found to have increased, which coincided with high and low recorded external nutrient loads from the Wheatley River, respectively. Ultimately, these findings indicate that isotopic composition and biomass can be useful in assessing the health of eelgrass in temperate estuaries.
Experimental Study on Microwave Drying Aluminum Hydroxide
Authors: Zheng Xuemei , Yuan Fuqin , Ma Aiyuan , Tian Shihong
Published: June 2024

The aluminum hydroxide produced by the Bayer process contains a large amount of water which leads to the consumption of a large amount of heat for moisture removal in the calcination process, resulting in an increased energy consumption. The effects of temperature and microwave power on the dehydration ratio and the dry matter ratio of aluminum hydroxide were investigated. The characteristics of temperature variation during drying were discussed. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), laser particle size, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and dielectric property analyses were made to characterize the dried materials. The analysis results showed that within the range of bench-scale experimental parameters, the dehydration ratio was higher and the proportion of dry matter was lower at a higher final temperature. Within the range of pilot-scale experimental parameters, the dehydration ratio increased with the increasing microwave power from 500 W to 1500 W. XRD spectra revealed that when the final temperature exceeded 220 °C, a part of the aluminum hydroxide underwent a low-temperature phase transition to boehmite. The SEM images and a particle size analysis showed that there was no significant difference between the morphologies of the powder obtained by microwave drying and conventional drying methods. The powder obtained by both processes had an average particle size of around 80 μm. The dielectric constant and the dielectric loss of the dried material decreased greatly.
Preparation of Silicone Coating and Its Anti-Ice and Anti-Corrosion Properties
Authors: Wang Haopeng , Wang Jihu , Wen Shaoguo , Jiang Sihong , Song Jia , Ding Shengnan , Wu Hui
Published: June 2024

To enhance protection against corrosion and ice on iron metal material in frigid zones, an organic silicone resin coating was prepared using four monomers. Its structure and performance was analyzed via infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and thermal analysis (TG). Corrosion resistance of coating was tested by saltwater resistance and salt spray resistance and assessed using an electrochemical workstation, alongside anti-icing tests. The results showed that the organic silicone resin was successfully synthesized. The coatings could delay freezing onset by one-third compared to controls in low temperatures, with a detachment time also reduced by one-third, indicating excellent corrosion and ice resistance. The methylphenyl silicone resin had good anti-corrosion and anti-ice properties, with a low corrosion current density (icorr) of 0.8793 μA/cm2 and a high charge transfer resistance (Rct) of 24,930 Ω·cm2 in saline.
Entropy and the Limits to Growth
Authors: Kümmel Reiner
Published: June 2024

In its business-as-usual scenario, the 1972 Club-of-Rome report—The Limits to Growth—describes the collapse of the world economy around the year 2030, either because of the scarcity of natural resources or because of pollution. Mainstream economists, the high priests of secular societies, condemned it fiercely. Their gospel of perpetual economic growth, during which technological progress would solve all problems, promises a bright future for all mankind. On the other hand, engineers, natural scientists, and mathematicians realized that the breakdown scenario is due to the inclusion of the First and the Second Law of Thermodynamics in the Club-of-Rome’s world model. According to these laws, nothing happens in the world without energy conversion and entropy production. In 1865, Rudolph Clausius, the discoverer of entropy, published the laws as the constitution of the universe. Entropy is the physical measure of disorder. Without a proper understanding of energy and entropy in the economy, all efforts to achieve sustainability will fail.