Search

Xanthione is a sulfated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon which exhibits unique anti-Kasha properties and substantial sensitivity to its medium. Due to this sensitivity however, this makes xanthione-based systems very difficult to simulate. Further, xanthione's is understood to be come more photostable in the presence of a highly polar medium, however whether these photophysical properties could be taken advantage of for certain applications remains to be seen. In clarifying long-held beliefs of specific solvent effects, we apply a rigorous theoretical solvent analysis in both implicit and explicit solvent mediums to elucidate a more complete description of solvent polarity sensitivity in xanthione using both quantum chemical and molecular dynamics techniques. Not only was it found that explicit solvation methods are vital in an accurate description of the system, only a handful of explicit solvent molecules in the simulation are required to yield an appropriate electronic description. This short work is vital to devising future applications for xanthione-based and other quantum technologies, and is an important foundation stone on this journey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accurate identification of pills is essential for their safe administration in the medical field. Despite technological advancements, pill classification encounters hurdles such as ambiguous images, pattern similarities, mixed pills, and variations in pill shapes. A significant factor is the inability of 2D imaging to capture a pill's 3D structure efficiently. Additionally, the scarcity of diverse datasets reflecting various pill shapes and colors hampers accurate prediction. Our experimental investigation shows that while color-based classification obtains a 95% accuracy rate, shape-based classification only reaches 66%, underscoring the inherent difficulty distinguishing between pills with similar patterns. In response to these challenges, we propose a novel system integrating Multi Combination Pattern Labeling (MCPL), a new method designed to accurately extract feature points and pill patterns. MCPL extracts feature points invariant to rotation and scale and effectively identifies unique edges, thereby emphasizing pills' contour and structural features. This innovative approach enables the robust extraction of information regarding various shapes, sizes, and complex pill patterns, considering even the 3D structure of the pills. Experimental results show that the proposed method improves the existing recognition performance by about 1.2 times. By improving the accuracy and reliability of pill classification and recognition, MCPL can significantly enhance patient safety and medical efficiency. By overcoming the limitations inherent in existing classification methods, MCPL provides high-accuracy pill classification, even with constrained datasets. It substantially enhances the reliability of pill classification and recognition, contributing to improved patient safety and medical efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) is a life-threatening disorder that involves a complex interplay between the two organs. Managing this multifaceted syndrome is challenging in the hospital and requires a multidisciplinary approach to tackle the many manifestations and complications. There is no universally accepted algorithm to treat patients, and therapeutic options vary from one patient to another. The mainstays of therapy involve the stabilization of hemodynamics, decongestion using diuretics or renal replacement therapy, improvement of cardiac output with inotropes, and goal-directed medical treatment with renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors, beta-blockers, and other medications. Mechanical circulatory support is another viable option in the armamentarium of agents that improve symptoms in select patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design of school building typologies, along with the use of advanced glazing systems such as suspended particle devices (SPD), is crucial for determining visual comfort for students. Recent research has focused on integrating SPD in architectural elements such as skylights, clerestories, and windows. In hot desert climates, minimizing window areas, employing shading mechanisms, and utilizing daylighting features such as courtyards and atriums are practical. This study explores the optimization of various architectural components in classroom designs, including Window Wall Ratios (WWR), Skylight Ratios (SR), floor levels, cardinal orientation, and SPD switching states. Using a detailed and comprehensive radiance simulation via Rhino-Grasshopper and Colibri 2.0, we conducted a thorough analysis and optimization of the SPD glazing system across different states on both annual and hourly bases. The results indicate that optimizing SPD transmittance states between 30–40%, maintaining WWRs from 20–40%, and incorporating a large skylight ratio significantly enhances the recommended work plane illuminance (WPI) and the uniformity index (Ui) of the tested typologies. This optimization improves glare control across various building typologies and provides a roadmap for architects aiming to design learning spaces that prioritize visual comfort and overall student well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the evolving field of civil engineering studies, a significant transition is evident from fundamental to new-generation research approaches. This paper presents a systematic literature review aimed at analyzing these shifts, focusing specifically on the performance of students in educational buildings thought the integration of modern technologies such as the Internet of Things, life cycle assessments, and building information modeling. Covering the literature from the late twentieth century to the early twenty-first century, the review emphasizes advancements in sustainable infrastructure, eco-friendly designs, digitalization, and advanced modeling. A comparative analysis reveals that while the fundamental articles are primarily focused on indoor air quality parameters, the new-generation articles prioritize technological integration to address broader environmental concerns and for improved building performance. Challenges in the education sector, such as insufficient energy use, high maintenance costs, and poor working conditions, are also discussed, showcasing their impact on student learning outcomes. The methodology employed for this review included a comprehensive search in databases such as Scopus and Web of Science, using keywords such as "school buildings", "IoT", "BIM", and "LCA", ensuring a robust and diverse collection of academic articles. The findings show that new trends supplement existing topics, suggesting an integration rather than a replacement of traditional practices. Consequently, future research efforts will need to include a broader range of information to fully account for the evolving landscape in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: the variations in a child's overall body shape and figure among different countries are attributable to differences in genetics, environmental factors, and the interaction between these elements. This study aims to evaluate the validity, reliability, and appropriateness of applying international growth standards to Jordanian children and adolescents aged 2–19 years old. Methods: 65,828 Jordanian children and adolescents (43% males; 57% females) aged 2–19 years old were selected from the Hakeem Program database and various private schools across Jordan. Height-for-age, weight-for-age, and body mass index (BMI)-for-age were analyzed comparatively for Jordanian children and adolescents against international growth standards. The z-score for each record was computed based on international equations. Results: Mean z-scores for height-for-age, weight-for-age, and BMI-for-age for both genders showed significant deviation from international standards across most age intervals. It was found that in most age groups, Jordanian children and adolescents were shorter and lighter than CDC and WHO standards, except for females at ages ≥ 16 years, who were heavier with higher BMI-for-age values than CDC standards based on weight-for-age and BMI-for-age equations. Moreover, Jordanian males at ages ≥ 12 years had lower BMI-for-age values than CDC standards. Conclusions: Jordanian children and adolescents showed significant deviations in their measurements from international standards and growth reference values. The development of a population-specific growth chart is highly recommended to enhance the accuracy of evaluating children's and adolescents' wellness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ozone at ground level (O3) is an air pollutant that is formed from primary precursor gases like nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It plays a significant role as a precursor to highly reactive hydroxyl (OH) radicals, which ultimately influence the lifespan of various gases in the atmosphere. The elevated surface O3 levels resulting from anthropogenic activities have detrimental effects on both human health and agricultural productivity. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the variations in surface O3 levels across various regions in the Indian subcontinent, focusing on both spatial and temporal changes. The study is based on an in-depth review of literature spanning the last thirty years in India. Based on the findings of the latest study, the spatial distribution of surface O3 indicates a rise of approximately 50–70 ppbv during the summer and pre-monsoon periods in the northern region and Indo-Gangetic Plain. Moreover, elevated levels of surface O3 (40–70 ppbv) are observed during the pre-monsoon/summer season in the western, southern, and peninsular Indian regions. The investigation also underscores the ground-based observations of diurnal and seasonal alterations in surface O3 levels at two separate sites (rural and urban) in Kannur district, located in southern India, over a duration of nine years starting from January 2016. The O3 concentration exhibits an increasing trend of 7.91% (rural site) and 5.41% (urban site), ascribed to the rise in vehicular and industrial operations. This review also presents a succinct summary of O3 fluctuations during solar eclipses and nocturnal firework displays in the subcontinent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently there are several precipitation reconstructions for northern Mexico; however, there is a lack of temperature reconstructions to understand past climate change, the impact on ecosystems and societies, etc. The central region of Chihuahua is located in a transition zone between the Sierra Madre Occidental and the Great Northern Plain, characterized by extreme temperatures and marked seasonal variability. The objectives of this study were (1) to generate a climatic association between variables from reanalysis models and the earlywood series for the center of Chihuahua, (2) to generate a reconstruction of mean temperature, (3) to determine extreme events, and (4) to identify the influence of ocean–atmosphere phenomena. Chronologies were downloaded from the International Tree-Ring Data Bank and climate information from the NLDAS-2 and ClimateNA reanalysis models. The response function was performed using climate models and regional dendrochronological series. A reconstruction of mean temperature was generated, and extreme periods were identified. The representativeness of the reconstruction was evaluated through spatial correlation, and low-frequency events were determined through multitaper spectral analysis and wavelet analysis. The influence of ocean–atmosphere phenomena on temperature reconstruction was analyzed using Pearson correlation, and the influence of ENSO was examined through wavelet coherence analysis. Highly significant correlations were found for maximum, minimum, and mean temperature, as well as for precipitation and relative humidity, before and after the growth year. However, the seasonal period with the highest correlation was found from May to June for mean temperature, which was used to generate the reconstruction from 1775 to 2022. The most extreme periods were 1775, 1801, 1805, 1860, 1892–1894, 1951, 1953–1954, and 2011–2012. Spectral analysis showed significant frequencies of 56.53 and 2.09 years, and wavelet analysis from 0 to 2 years from 1970 to 1980, from 8 to 11 years from 1890 to 1910, and from 30 to 70 years from 1860 to 2022. A significant association was found with the Multivariate ENSO Index phenomenon (r = 0.40; p = 0.009) and Pacific Decadal Oscillation (r = −0.38; p = 0.000). Regarding the ENSO phenomenon, an antiphase association of r = −0.34; p = 0.000 was found, with significant periods of 1 to 4 years from 1770 to 1800, 1845 to 1850, and 1860 to 1900, with periods of 6 to 10 years from 1875 to 1920, and from 6 to 8 years from 1990 to 2000. This study allowed a reconstruction of mean temperature through reanalysis data, as well as a historical characterization of temperature for central Chihuahua beyond the observed records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cladophora is commonly found in marine and freshwater around the globe and provides productivity for littoral zone microorganisms and invertebrates. The eutrophication of the water body has led to the abnormal proliferation of Cladophora in some water, often in river coast channel outbreaks. Even under the nutritional deficiency systems, such as the central trunk canal of the South-to-North Water Diversion in China, Cladophora's blooms affect water quality and seriously jeopardize human health. Thus, the structural characteristics of Cladophora cells and spores, the factors affecting the growth of Cladophora cells, and the mechanisms of damage and destruction of Cladophora cells and spores were investigated. Cladophora cells are cylindrical with very thick cell walls. The inner layer of the spore wall is a thin membrane which contains the nucleus of the spore. The growth and spreading of Cladophora cells are affected by various environmental factors such as light, temperature, water depth, water level, nutrient salts, pH, etc. Some physical treatment measures, such as ultrasounds, would destroy the cell walls and membranes of Cladophora by its high-intensity mechanical action. Chemicals and aquatic plant measures can destroy Cladophora cells' photosynthesis system, antioxidant enzyme systems, proteins, and ultrastructure. Based on the mechanisms for these cell damage and destruction, a combination of measures that are likely to inhibit the growth of Cladophora cells effectively was suggested. Furthermore, the damaged cells of Cladophora could provide some environmental benefits. Aggregated results could provide a scientific basis for further research on the control of blooms of Cladophora or the reuse of Cladophora cells as a natural resource. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Storytelling is one of the most important learning activities for children since reading aloud from a picture book stimulates children's curiosity, emotional development, and imagination. For effective education, the procedures for storytelling activities need to be improved according to the children's level of curiosity. However, young children are not able to complete questionnaires, making it difficult to analyze their level of interest. This paper proposes a method to estimate children's curiosity in picture book reading activities at five levels by recognizing children's behavior using acceleration and angular velocity sensors placed on their heads. We investigated the relationship between children's behaviors and their levels of curiosity, listed all observed behaviors, and clarified the behavior for estimating curiosity. Furthermore, we conducted experiments using motion sensors to estimate these behaviors and confirmed that the accuracy of estimating curiosity from sensor data is approximately 72%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this systematic review was to synthesize the results from current literature examining the effects of prior exercise on the postprandial triglyceride (TG) response to evaluate current literature and provide future direction. A quantitative review was performed using meta-analytic methods to quantify individual effect sizes. A moderator analysis was performed to investigate potential variables that could influence the effect of prior exercise on postprandial TG response. Two hundred and seventy-nine effects were retrieved from 165 studies for the total TG response and 142 effects from 87 studies for the incremental area under the curve TG response. There was a moderate effect of exercise on the total TG response (Cohen's d = −0.47; p <.0001). Moderator analysis revealed exercise energy expenditure significantly moderated the effect of prior exercise on the total TG response (p <.0001). Exercise modality (e.g., cardiovascular, resistance, combination of both cardiovascular and resistance, or standing), cardiovascular exercise type (e.g., continuous, interval, concurrent, or combined), and timing of exercise prior to meal administration significantly affected the total TG response (p <.001). Additionally, exercise had a moderate effect on the incremental area under the curve TG response (Cohen's d = −0.40; p <.0001). The current analysis reveals a more homogeneous data set than previously reported. The attenuation of postprandial TG appears largely dependent on exercise energy expenditure (∼2 MJ) and the timing of exercise. The effect of prior exercise on the postprandial TG response appears to be transient; therefore, exercise should be frequent to elicit an adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Observing peaceful natural environments has been shown to restore cognitive abilities and reduce stress. As a result, visual access to natural environments is becoming increasingly common in educational settings. However, most current research on classroom window views has examined classroom environments in elementary and secondary schools, and only some university classrooms have been used as study sites. This study investigated the relationship between the naturalness of university classroom window views and physiological and emotional responses and standardized tests of attentional focus (learning efficiency) in university students. Thirty participants (undergraduates 21.16 ± 1.01 years old) viewed architectural window views and natural window views for 3 min each, and physiological measures of EEG, HRV index, and psychometric measures of Semantic Differences Questionnaire and Emotional State Questionnaire generated data. Measurements were generated. The results indicated that the natural window view significantly enhanced theta, alpha, and beta waves of brain activity, provided a sense of comfort, relaxation, and pleasure, and increased learning efficiency compared to the architectural window view. The findings support the beneficial associations between window views on university campuses and students' mood and learning efficiency, emphasizing the importance of considering natural window views in the planning and designing of university classrooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the green macroalgae Ulva rigida, which contains 34.9% carbohydrates, underwent treatment with commercial hydrolytic enzymes. This treatment yielded a hydrolysate that contained 23 ± 0.6 g·L−1 of glucose, which was subsequently fermented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The fermentation process resulted in an ethanol concentration of 9.55 ± 0.20 g·L−1. The optimal conditions for ethanol production by S. cerevisiae were identified as follows: non-sterilized conditions, an absence of enrichment, and using an inoculum size of 118 mg·L−1. Under these conditions, the fermentation of the green macroalgal hydrolysate achieved a remarkable conversion efficiency of 80.78%. The ethanol o/t ratio, namely the ratios of the experimental to theoretical ethanol produced, for Scheffersomyces stipitis, Candida guilliermondii, Kluyveromyces marxianus, and S. cerevisiae after 48 h of fermentation were 52.25, 63.20, 70.49, and 82.87%, respectively. Furthermore, S. cerevisiae exhibited the best outcomes in terms of ethanol production (9.35 g·L−1) and conversion efficiency (80.78%) after 24 h (optimal time) of fermentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a slow-growing, locally aggressive, rarely metastasizing, low-grade cutaneous neoplasm that arises from the epidermal basal layer and invades the adjoining tissues. It is the most common skin cancer. It is fairly common in fair Caucasians and quite uncommon in dark-skinned populations. It contributes to 65–75% of cutaneous malignancies in whites and 20–30% in Asian Indians. The most important causal factors appear to be radiation exposure and genetic predisposition. It may present as a nonhealing lesion that occasionally bleeds or as a pruritic lesion with no symptoms. Tumours rarely spread to regional lymph nodes. The clinical appearances and morphology of BCC are diverse. Clinical types include nodular, cystic, superficial, pigmented, morphoeaform, (sclerosing), keratotic and fibroepithelioma of Pinkus. Most of the lesions appear on the head and neck, usually above the line joining the tragus and the angle of the mouth. A biopsy should be performed on all lesions suspected of BCC. The primary aim of treatment is the complete excision of the tumour tissue. Other treatment modalities include cryotherapy, immunomodulatory drugs, laser treatment or locally applicable chemotherapeutic agents. Prevention consists of lifestyle changes such as avoiding sunburn, tanning beds and prolonged direct sun exposure, shade seeking, sunscreen application on the skin, and physical barrier methods such as protective clothing, hats and sunglasses. Regular sunscreen use in childhood and adolescence seems more beneficial than in adulthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is one of the most aggressive forms of gynaecological malignancies. Survival rates for women diagnosed with OC remain poor as most patients are diagnosed with advanced disease. Debulking surgery and platinum-based therapies are the current mainstay for OC treatment. However, and despite achieving initial remission, a significant portion of patients will relapse because of innate and acquired resistance, at which point the disease is considered incurable. In view of this, novel detection strategies and therapeutic approaches are needed to improve outcomes and survival of OC patients. In this review, we summarize our current knowledge of the genetic landscape and molecular pathways underpinning OC and its many subtypes. By examining therapeutic strategies explored in preclinical and clinical settings, we highlight the importance of decoding how single and convergent genetic alterations co-exist and drive OC progression and resistance to current treatments. We also propose that core signalling pathways such as the PI3K and MAPK pathways play critical roles in the origin of diverse OC subtypes and can become new targets in combination with known DNA damage repair pathways for the development of tailored and more effective anti-cancer treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gout is at least three times more prevalent in males than in females. However, concurrent with rising total gout prevalence, complex factors, including comorbidities, diet, lifestyle, and aging, have promoted higher gout prevalence in females. This narrative review focuses on summarizing recent developments in the landscape of gout in females and the mechanisms involved. New knowledge on sex hormone effects on both urate-excreting and urate-reabsorbing transporters and higher hypertension and chronic kidney disease prevalence in females compared to males may help explain why gout incidence rises robustly after menopause in females, to approach that in males. Racial and ethnic factors, risk profiles based on heritable genetic polymorphisms of urate transporters, diet, body mass index, and lifestyle factors differ according to sex. In addition, sex differences in clinical phenotypes, outcomes of gout, and non-gout illnesses include more frequent comorbidities, more pain and disability during gout flares, different perceptions of disease burden, and more frequent severe cutaneous hypersensitivity reaction to allopurinol in females. Collectively, such findings support the potential clinical benefits of tailoring gout and hyperuricemia treatment according to sex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) is one of the most promising novel propulsion technologies with the advantages of no pollution, high specific impulse, and high acceleration efficiency. As the carrier of this technology, the MHD accelerator has enormous potential for applications in hypersonic wind tunnels, supersonic ramjet engines, and deep space propulsion. In this study, a three-dimensional numerical simulation of an ideal Faraday magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) accelerator is conducted to assess the effect on performance with respect to applied potential and magnetic field intensity. The study is performed by employing a low magnetic Reynolds number MHD model coupled with a 7-component chemical reaction model to simplify the impact of real gas effects. The chemical reaction exhibits an increasing trend with rising applied potential and a decreasing trend with diminishing magnetic field strength. This variation influences the gas conductivity, subsequently affecting the velocity and thrust of the system. Specifically, at a magnetic field intensity of 2.0 T and an applied potential of 600 V, the accelerator exhibits maximum velocity and thrust growth rates of 18.6% and 59.8%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nephrotic edema stands out as one of the most common complications of nephrotic syndrome. The effective management of hypervolemia is paramount in addressing this condition. Initially, "the underfill hypothesis" suggested that proteinuria and hypoalbuminemia led to fluid extravasation into the interstitial space, causing the intravascular hypovolemia and activation of neurohormonal compensatory mechanisms, which increased the retention of salt and water. Consequently, the recommended management involved diuretics and human-albumin infusion. However, recent findings from human and animal studies have unveiled a kidney-limited sodium-reabsorption mechanism, attributed to the presence of various serine proteases in the tubular lumen-activating ENaC channels, thereby causing sodium reabsorption. There is currently no standardized guideline for diuretic therapy. In clinical practice, loop diuretics continue to be the preferred initial choice. It is noteworthy that patients often exhibit diuretic resistance due to various factors such as high-sodium diets, poor drug compliance, changes in pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics, kidney dysfunction, decreased renal flow, nephron remodeling and proteasuria. Considering these challenges, combining diuretics may be a rational approach to overcoming diuretic resistance. Despite the limited data available on diuretic treatment in nephrotic syndrome complicated by hypervolemia, ENaC blockers emerge as a potential add-on treatment for nephrotic edema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most episodes of acute heart failure (AHF) are characterized by increasing signs and symptoms of congestion, manifested by edema, pleura effusion and/or ascites. Immediately and repeatedly administered intravenous (IV) loop diuretics currently represent the mainstay of initial therapy aiming to achieve adequate diuresis/natriuresis and euvolemia. Despite these efforts, a significant proportion of patients have residual congestion at discharge, which is associated with a poor prognosis. Therefore, a standardized approach is needed. The door to diuretic time should not exceed 60 min. As a general rule, the starting IV dose is 20–40 mg furosemide equivalents in loop diuretic naïve patients or double the preexisting oral home dose to be administered via IV. Monitoring responses within the following first hours are key issues. (1) After 2 h, spot urinary sodium should be ≥50–70 mmol/L. (2) After 6 h, the urine output should be ≥100–150 mL/hour. If these target measures are not reached, the guidelines currently recommend a doubling of the original dose to a maximum of 400–600 mg furosemide per day and in patients with severely impaired kidney function up to 1000 mg per day. Continuous infusion of loop diuretics offers no benefit over intermittent boluses (DOSE trial). Emerging evidence by recent randomized trials (ADVOR, CLOROTIC) supports the concept of an early combination diuretic therapy, by adding either acetazolamide (500 mg IV once daily) or hydrochlorothiazide. Acetazolamide is particularly useful in the presence of a baseline bicarbonate level of ≥27 mmol/L and remains effective in the presence of preexisting/worsening renal dysfunction but should be used only in the first three days to prevent severe metabolic disturbances. Patients should not leave the hospital when they are still congested and/or before optimized long-term guideline-directed medical therapy has been initiated. Special attention should be paid to AHF patients during the vulnerable post-discharge period, with an early follow-up visit focusing on up-titrate treatments of recommended doses within 2 weeks (STRONG-HF). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heart failure (HF) patients often experience persistent fluid overload despite standard diuretic therapy. The adjunctive use of acetazolamide, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, in combination with loop diuretics has shown promise in improving decongestion and diuretic efficacy. This literature review aims to analyze six studies evaluating the effectiveness of acetazolamide as an additive treatment for acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) and its impact on various outcomes. Methods: We searched the PubMed database using the terms "acetazolamide heart failure". We refined our search with specific filters (as shown our PRISMA flow diagram) and exclusion criteria, narrowing down our results to five studies. We included an extra study via expert recommendation, ultimately including six studies for comprehensive analysis. Results: The review highlights the positive effects of acetazolamide on decongestion, natriuresis, and diuresis in HF patients. However, it also showcases the limitations of these trials. Discussion: While the reviewed studies demonstrate the potential benefits of acetazolamide in enhancing decongestion and diuretic efficiency, there are limitations to consider, including small sample sizes, lack of blinding, and limited external validity. Further research is needed to confirm these findings, compare acetazolamide with other diuretic combinations, and explore its effects in a broader population of heart failure patients, including those in the United States. The use of acetazolamide in HF management warrants continued investigation to optimize its role in improving decongestion and patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review paper presents a review of the evolution of this disease throughout the centuries, describes and summarizes the pathophysiologic mechanisms, briefly discusses the mechanism of action of diuretics, presents their role in decongesting heart failure in patients, and reveals the data behind ultrafiltration in the management of acutely or chronically decompensated heart failure (ADHF), focusing on all the available data and advancements in this field. Acutely decompensated heart failure (ADHF) presents a critical clinical condition characterized by worsening symptoms and signs of heart failure, necessitating prompt intervention to alleviate congestion and improve cardiac function. Diuretics have traditionally been the mainstay for managing fluid overload in ADHF. Mounting evidence suggests that due to numerous causes, such as coexisting renal failure or chronic use of loop diuretics, an increasing rate of diuretic resistance is noticed and needs to be addressed. There has been a series of trials that combined diuretics of different categories without the expected results. Emerging evidence suggests that ultrafiltration may offer an alternative or adjunctive approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to observations of the radiation situation in space from the Meteor-M No. 2 satellite, which is in a sun-synchronous circular orbit with a height of ~832 km, 25 anomalous increases in electron fluxes with a duration of ~6–8 min each were detected. These rare events were recorded in 2014–2022 in Oceania at low latitudes in the morning hours of local time under quiet geomagnetic conditions, at energies from ~100 keV to several MeV. Electron fluxes in the channel of the Cherenkov counter were observed at the level of fluxes of galactic cosmic rays in the polar caps, and in the channels of other counters, at the level of fluxes at the maximum of the outer radiation belt. It is assumed that precipitation of electrons from the inner radiation belt was observed: during bounce oscillations, electrons fell into cyclotron resonance with radio emission initiated by ground and/or ship transmitters in the morning hours of local time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new terrein dimer named lichtheicol A (1) and a new meroterpene named lichtheiterpene A (2), were isolated from the mangrove endophytic fungus Lichtheimia sp. J2B1, together with 10 known compounds (3–12). The planar structures and absolute configurations of 1 and 2 were established by a combination of extensive spectroscopic data analyses and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. Compounds 4 and 5 exhibited marked inhibitory effects against butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) with IC50 values of 0.71 and 0.53 μM, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy (FEVR), Norrie disease, and persistent fetal vascular syndrome (PFVS) are extremely rare retinopathies that are clinically distinct but are unified by abnormal retinal endothelial cell function, and subsequent irregular retinal vascular development and/or aberrant inner blood-retinal-barrier (iBRB) function. The early angiogenesis of the retina and its iBRB is a delicate process that is mediated by the canonical Norrin Wnt-signaling pathway in retinal endothelial cells. Pathogenic variants in genes that play key roles within this pathway, such as NDP, FZD4, TSPAN12, and LRP5, have been associated with the incidence of these retinal diseases. Recent efforts to further elucidate the etiology of these conditions have not only highlighted their multigenic nature but have also resulted in the discovery of pathological variants in additional genes such as CTNNB1, KIF11, and ZNF408, some of which operate outside of the Norrin Wnt-signaling pathway. Recent discoveries of FEVR-linked variants in two other Catenin genes (CTNND1, CTNNA1) and the Endoplasmic Reticulum Membrane Complex Subunit-1 gene (EMC1) suggest that we will continue to find additional genes that impact the neural retinal vasculature, especially in multi-syndromic conditions. The goal of this review is to briefly highlight the current understanding of the roles of their encoded proteins in retinal endothelial cells to understand the essential functional mechanisms that can be altered to cause these very rare pediatric retinal vascular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of patients with hyperuricemia or gout is increasing worldwide. Hyperuricemia and gout are primarily attributed to genetic factors, along with lifestyle factors like consuming a purine-rich diet, alcohol and/or fructose intake, and physical activity. While numerous studies have reported various comorbidities linked to hyperuricemia or gout, the range of these associations is extensive. This review article focuses on the relationship between uric acid and thirteen specific domains: transporters, genetic factors, diet, lifestyle, gout, diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, atherosclerosis, hypertension, kidney diseases, cardiovascular diseases, neurological diseases, and malignancies. The present article provides a comprehensive review of recent developments in these areas, compiled by experts from the Young Committee of the Japanese Society of Gout and Uric and Nucleic Acids. The consolidated summary serves to enhance the global comprehension of uric acid-related matters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, Korea has been affected by various disasters caused by climate change and the resulting changes in weather, which have been taking an increasing toll on the country. A review of weather phenomena and their socioeconomic impact identified weather disasters as one of the most damaging categories of disasters. As such, this study suggests a method for calculating the rainfall threshold to predict the impact of heavy rain. In order to calculate the rainfall threshold based on the multi-method, the entire territory of South Korea was divided into 1 km by 1 km grids, and a method for calculating the rainfall threshold was proposed by grouping them into four categories: standard watershed, urban areas, rivers, and inundation traces. This study attempted to verify the results of the rainfall threshold in standard watersheds and urban areas. The results were verified using the data from events during the heavy rain in Seoul in 2022 and 2018, the heavy rain in Busan in 2020, and Typhoon Mitag in October 2019. As a result of the verification and calculation, a rainfall threshold was found on the grid where the actual flooding damage occurred in Busan, where heavy rain caused a large amount of urban flooding in July 2020. The application of the rainfall threshold on the grid caused enough damage to flood vehicles. After this application, it was found that flooding of more than 0.2 m affected vehicles. During early September in the Gangneung grid, flooding damage was caused by Typhoon Haishen, which affected traffic. In this damaged grid, it was also found that flooding of more than 0.2 m occurred according to the rainfall impact limit. In this study, since there were no quantitative data, verification was performed using qualitative data such as news and SNS. Therefore, quantitative verification methods using flooding sensors and CCTVs need to be carried out in the future. After verification using qualitative data, we found that the time when the actual flooding damage occurred and the flooding patterns were well ascertained. The rainfall threshold calculation method and the rainfall prediction information developed in this study are expected to be applicable to impact forecasting, which can provide people affected by heavy rainfall with information on how the rainfall will affect them, as well as simple rainfall forecasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasticity‐mediated changes in interaction dynamics and structure may scale up and affect the ecological network in which the plastic species are embedded. Despite their potential relevance for understanding the effects of plasticity on ecological communities, these effects have seldom been analysed. We argue here that, by boosting the magnitude of intra‐individual phenotypic variation, plasticity may have three possible direct effects on the interactions that the plastic species maintains with other species in the community: may expand the interaction niche, may cause a shift from one interaction niche to another or may even cause the colonization of a new niche. The combined action of these three factors can scale to the community level and eventually expresses itself as a modification in the topology and functionality of the entire ecological network. We propose that this causal pathway can be more widespread than previously thought and may explain how interaction niches evolve quickly in response to rapid changes in environmental conditions. The implication of this idea is not solely eco‐evolutionary but may also help to understand how ecological interactions rewire and evolve in response to global change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the opinions of mountain bike event organisers on the marketing mix generated by the different events, which will help us to detect areas of opportunity in the preparation of the sporting challenges. The analysis was carried out using a survey of twelve organisers from different municipalities in the state of Michoacán, where the minimum selection requirements were to have held the event for at least 5 consecutive years, to ensure continuity, and to have at least 400 participants in each one of the events, to subsequently analyse the answers through the experton theory, giving as a result what each of the questions asked represents for them, one of the findings was that the price is an important factor in the decision to participate in the events, while, in the same vein, the organisers are not satisfied with what is offered at the events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A dendrochronological network of conifers (Pinus leiophylla, Pinus cembroides, Pinus engelmannii) was developed in the Cumbres de Majalca National Park (CMNP) in Chihuahua, Mexico, to reconstruct historical runoff patterns and examine the impact of ocean–atmosphere phenomena. The CMNP plays a vital role as a runoff source for Conchos River tributaries and groundwater recharge for Chihuahua City and nearby populations. The ring-width chronologies displayed a common signal from 1859 to 2021, with the highest association found between P. engelmannii and P. leiophylla (r = 0.65) and the lowest between P. cembroides and P. engelmannii (r = 0.55). The first principal component explained 75.7% of the variance, and among the species, P. leiophylla exhibited the highest correlation (0.624, p < 0.05) with the accumulated streamflow records from the previous November to July, allowing the construction of a bootstrapped model for runoff reconstruction. The reconstructed streamflow spanned from 1859 to 2014, with an average of 2.732 × 108 m3. Periods of low runoff occurred in 1860–1880, 1940–1960, and 1994–2014, while extreme wet years with high runoff occurred in 1865, 1884, and 1987. The interannual streamflow variability correlated significantly with ENSO indices (SOI, MEI, TRI, and sea surface temperature anomalies), particularly during the winter–spring seasons, indicating that warm phases of the ENSO increased precipitation and runoff. The analysis of return periods revealed probabilities for specific runoff volumes, enabling stakeholders to use the information to develop effective strategies for sustainable water allocation and utilization in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aberrant adenosine diphosphate-ribose (ADP)-ribosylation of proteins and nucleic acids is associated with multiple disease processes such as infections and chronic inflammatory diseases. The poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP)/ADP-ribosyltransferase (ART) family members promote mono- or poly-ADP-ribosylation. Although evidence has linked PARPs/ARTs and macrophages in the context of chronic inflammation, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. This review provides an overview of literature focusing on the roles of PARP1/ARTD1, PARP7/ARTD14, PARP9/ARTD9, and PARP14/ARTD8 in macrophages. PARPs/ARTs regulate changes in macrophages during chronic inflammatory processes not only via catalytic modifications but also via non-catalytic mechanisms. Untangling complex mechanisms, by which PARPs/ARTs modulate macrophage phenotype, and providing molecular bases for the development of new therapeutics require the development and implementation of innovative technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low‐level convergence is one of the most important dynamic variables in governing the convection initiation (CI) and development of storms. However, our ability to obtain high‐resolution horizontal divergence profiles remains limited due to the lack of high‐resolution vertical wind observations. In this study, horizontal divergence (and vertical motion) profiles are derived from horizontal winds measured by two radar wind‐profiler (RWP) mesonets in East China, and then used to examine their relationship with CI occurring within a mesonet and an intense squall line moving across another mesonet. Results show that the RWP mesonets together with automated surface observations could provide realistically the lower‐tropospheric profiles of horizontal divergence (and upward motion) associated with the CI in the presence of the urban heat island effects, and lake and sea breezes; and the evolution of the squall line respectively. High‐resolution surface observations resolve better divergence induced by localized CI than the RWP measurements, whereas the latter capture well significant convergence below 4‐km altitude that precedes the onset of squall precipitation. A statistical analysis of the RWP data during the summer months of 2018 indicates that the lower‐tropospheric convergence can be detected up to about 40 min in advance of the occurrence of heavy rainfall, and the correlation is higher when it is closer to the heavy rainfall time. Nearly 40% of heavy rainfall moments (at 6‐min intervals) are accompanied by strong convergence signals occurring mostly near the top of the boundary layer. This work indicates that the RWP and surface wind measurements should be integrated to aid in nowcasting the location and timing of CI and development of convective storms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subjects of the article are halogen bonds between either XCN or XCCH (X = Cl, Br, I) and the carbene carbon atom in imidazol-2-ylidene (I) or its derivatives (IR 2 ) with experimentally significant and systematically increased R substituents at both nitrogen atoms: methyl = Me, iso-propyl = i Pr, tert-butyl = t Bu, phenyl = Ph, mesityl = Mes, 2,6-diisopropylphenyl = Dipp, 1-adamantyl = Ad. It is shown that the halogen bond strength increases in the order Cl < Br < I and the XCN molecule forms stronger complexes than XCCH. Of all the carbenes considered, IMes 2 forms the strongest and also the shortest halogen bonds with an apogee for complex IMes 2 ⋯ ICN for which D 0 = 18.71 kcal/mol and d C ⋯ I = 2.541 Å. In many cases, IDipp 2 forms as strong halogen bonds as IMes 2 . Quite the opposite, although characterized by the greatest nucleophilicity, I t Bu 2 forms the weakest complexes (and the longest halogen bonds) if X ≠ Cl. While this finding can easily be attributed to the steric hindrance exerted by the highly branched tert-butyl groups, it appears that the presence of the four C-H⋯X hydrogen bonds may also be of importance here. Similar situation occurs in the case of complexes with IAd 2 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The indoor environmental quality of a library greatly affects the comfort and productivity of its users while preserving the materials. Despite the high energy consumption of HVACs in libraries, achieving acceptable thermal conditions, acceptable acoustics, and sufficient daylight levels for users remains a challenge. There are limited studies on the IEQ of educational buildings, especially regarding the current situation of libraries. It is important to conduct further studies to define design guidelines promoting indoor environmental conditions. The main objectives of this study were to investigate the IEQ of a campus library to recommend retrofitting strategies. The IEQ parameters in the rare collection room, which houses special collections, and in the library hall were assessed using a full-scale measurement, with eight HOBO data loggers and sensors deployed in various locations to monitor IEQ. A comparison of the results with the standards revealed that rare collection room was unsuitable for maintaining rare collections, as the average indoor air temperature exceeded 21.2 °C, which is beyond the threshold limit. Additionally, the relative humidity ranged from 51.3% to 55.8%, which is marginally high. To provide acceptable indoor conditions, this study recommends retrofitting strategies for the exterior walls, such as using cement plaster with a low thermal conductivity. In the library hall, the reading zone was found to be thermally uncomfortable. The air velocity was below the range of 0.15 ms−1 to 0.50 ms−1 recommended by MS 1525. The average CO2 level was 479.5 ppm, with some points registering an increase of up to 588 ppm. The noise level in the library hall ranged between 43 dB(A) and 61 dB(A), while the light intensity was below 300 lux in the reading area, which is not within the acceptable range. This study suggests improvement solutions, such as implementing an air temperature between 24.5 and 26.5 °C for higher thermal comfort and increasing the window-to-wall ratio to utilize natural daylight. These findings provide insights into the design of new libraries and the renovation of existing ones, ensuring that libraries continue to serve as vibrant centers of knowledge and learning for generations to come. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was made of simultaneous observations of ultra-low-frequency oscillations in the 0.1–5.0 Hz frequency range of the serpentine emissions type (Serpentine Emissions, SE) observed at the polar cap region and disturbances in the auroral zone. The unique analog magnetic records of the Vostok Antarctic Observatory (corrected geomagnetic coordinates Φ' = –85.41°, Λ' = 69.01°) have been digitized with a high resolution (20 Hz) and are freely available on the website of the World Data Center for Solar-Terrestrial Physics, Moscow. For 1966 (November and December), 1968 (March–July), and 1970–1972, 1973 (January–March) the behavior of "serpentine emissions" was analyzed during the development of 180 isolated substorms identified by variation in AL index. An interruption in the mode of generation of serpentine emissions in the region of the polar cap was found during the active phase of intense isolated substorms (with a maximum magnitude of the AE index of ∼500–600 nT). During the expansion phase of the substorms, broadband noise electromagnetic emission appears with a sharp leading edge in the Pc1–2 range and is also recorded in the polar cap. Noise emission has a sharp leading edge and occurs approximately 2 hours after reorientation of the Bz-components of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) from north to south. The time of the interruption of SE coincides with the beginning this emission and moment of achievement Bz-component of maximum negative IMF values. Interruption of the SE effect is observed against the background of relatively stable other geoeffective parameters of the solar wind and IMF. The average duration of the interruption of emissions is ∼3 hours. Indirect confirmation of the impact of substorm activity on the SE generation regime is found in the coincidence of the patterns of daily and seasonal variation of SE interruption intervals and the probability of observing substorms. Due to the fact that noise emission occurs during the active phase of isolated substorms and ∼2 hours after reorientation of the Bz-components of the IMF in the solar wind, there is reason to believe that it is associated with plasma flows directed towards the Earth from the magnetotail. Apparently, the energy of plasma flows during the active phase of a substorm stimulates the appearance of noise emission, thus interrupting SE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Metastasis is the most dangerous feature of advanced cancers. In vitro models of this process could help us to study and understand mechanisms that are not readily accessible in the human body. In our approach, we used random positioning cell cultures to induce cancer cells to spread and form tumor spheroids. In this experimental setup, we show that dexamethasone is able to specifically inhibit the detachment of metastatic thyroid cancer cells. Our results not only show how differently healthy and malignant thyroid cells act and react in this in vitro metastasis model system, but also provide valuable insights into its functioning, possibilities and limitations. We recently reported that synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone (DEX) is able to suppress metastasis-like spheroid formation in a culture of follicular thyroid cancer (FTC)-133 cells cultured under random positioning. We now show that this inhibition was selective for two metastatic thyroid carcinoma cells, FTC-133 and WRO, whereas benign Nthy-ori 3-1 thyrocytes and recurrent ML-1 follicular thyroid cancer cells were not affected by DEX. We then compare Nthy-ori 3-1 and FTC-133 cells concerning their adhesion and mechanosignaling. We demonstrate that DEX disrupts random positioning-triggered p38 stress signaling in FTC-133 cells, thereby antagonizing a variety of biological functions. Thus, DEX treatment of FTC-133 cells is associated with increased adhesiveness, which is mainly caused by the restored, pronounced formation of a normal number of tight junctions. Moreover, we show that Nthy-ori 3-1 and ML-1 cells upregulate the anti-adhesion protein mucin-1 during random positioning, presumably as a protection against mechanical stress. In summary, mechanical stress seems to be an important component in this metastasis model system that is processed differently by metastatic and healthy cells. The balance between adhesion, anti-adhesion and cell–cell connections enables detachment of adherent human cells on the random positioning machine—or not, allowing selective inhibition of thyroid in vitro metastasis by DEX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiorenal syndrome consists in the coexistence of acute or chronic dysfunction of heart and kidneys resulting in a cascade of feedback mechanisms and causing damage to both organs associated with high morbidity and mortality. In the last few years, different biomarkers have been investigated with the aim to achieve an early and accurate diagnosis of cardiorenal syndrome, to provide a prognostic role and to guide the development of targeted pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies. In such a context, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, recommended as the first-line choice in the management of heart failure, might represent a promising strategy in the management of cardiorenal syndrome due to their efficacy in reducing both cardiac and renal outcomes. In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge on the pathophysiology of cardiorenal syndrome in adults, as well as the utility of biomarkers in cardiac and kidney dysfunction and potential insights into novel therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past two decades, with advances in data collection and in analytical techniques and tools, there has been a significant increase in research on indoor environmental quality (IEQ) assessment. To better understand the relationships between the overall IEQ performance and individual IEQ aspects, namely, indoor air quality, thermal comfort, acoustic quality, and visual quality, IEQ models have been developed by many previous studies. In this paper, the IEQ models proposed in the literature in the period from 2001 to 2022 are examined and summarized into ten questions, including but not limited to indicator selection, data collection, analysis methods, interpretation, and implication. The proposed answers aim to provide insight into current studies on IEQ models and identify gaps for future research. It has been found that the existing IEQ models differed for different building types or occupants. To compare the IEQ performance of various buildings in other countries, standardized data collection protocols are necessary, including the selection of IEQ aspects/indicators and their corresponding objective measurement strategies and standardized subjective survey methods. In addition, the data analysis approaches used to develop the IEQ models must be unified. Moreover, criteria for overall IEQ performance and the individual IEQ aspects should be provided. This study is the first comprehensive investigation of all the steps involved in IEQ model development. The answers to these ten questions can be seen as practical instructions for establishing an improved, standardized, and repeatable IEQ assessment model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through enriched play, children learn social-emotional skills necessary for academic achievement and interpersonal relationships with others. Further research is needed on how specific factors associated with social play, such as working memory and emotion knowledge, interact to promote it. Previous studies have examined the association of working memory and emotion knowledge with social play. However, there are no consistent results as to which abilities influence which skills first. Thus, the present study examines the impact of working memory on the development of social play and the role of emotion knowledge in the relationship between working memory and social play. Forty-seven Japanese preschoolers were tested on working memory, social play, and emotion knowledge. Regression analysis indicated that working memory was significantly related to social play. Furthermore, mediation analysis indicated that emotion recognition mediates the effects of working memory on social play. Working memory was found to contribute to social play by improving emotion recognition in children. These results indicate that the pathway from working memory to social play is mediated by emotion recognition and expands previous perspectives on the developmental mechanisms of emotion knowledge in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyponatremia is frequently found in patients with congestive heart failure. A reduction in effective circulatory blood volume in a volume-expanded patient with decreased cardiac output is linked to a baroreceptor-mediated non-osmotic release of arginine vasopressin (AVP). The increased production of AVP and salt and water retention in the proximal and distal tubules of the kidney by humoral, hemodynamic, and neural mechanisms increase circulatory blood volume and contribute to hyponatremia. Recent studies have indicated that hyponatremia predicts the short-term and long-term prognosis of heart failure by increasing cardiac death and rehospitalization. In addition, the early development of hyponatremia in acute myocardial infarction also predicts the long-term prognosis of worsening heart failure. AVP V2 receptor antagonism may relieve water retention, but it is unknown whether the V2 receptor inhibitor, tolvaptan, improves the long-term prognosis of congestive heart failure. The newly identified natriuretic factor in renal salt wasting has the potential of improving clinical outcomes when combined with a distal diuretic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gellan gum (GG) was chemically modified with methacrylic moieties to produce a photocrosslinkable biomaterial ink, hereinafter called methacrylated GG (GGMA), with improved physico-chemical properties, mechanical behavior and stability under physiological conditions. Afterwards, GGMA was functionalized by incorporating two different bioactive compounds, a naturally derived eumelanin extracted from the black soldier fly (BSF-Eumel), or hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HAp), synthesized by the sol–gel method. Different ink formulations based on GGMA (2 and 4% (w/v)), BSF-Eumel, at a selected concentration (0.3125 mg/mL), or HAp (10 and 30% wHAp/wGGMA) were developed and processed by three-dimensional (3D) printing. All the functionalized GGMA-based ink formulations allowed obtaining 3D-printed GGMA-based scaffolds with a well-organized structure. For both bioactive signals, the scaffolds with the highest GGMA concentration (4% (w/v)) and the highest percentage of infill (45%) showed the best performances in terms of morphological and mechanical properties. Indeed, these scaffolds showed a good structural integrity over 28 days. Given the presence of negatively charged groups along the eumelanin backbone, scaffolds consisting of GGMA/BSF-Eumel demonstrated a higher stability. From a mechanical point of view, GGMA/BSF-Eumel scaffolds exhibited values of storage modulus similar to those of GGMA ones, while the inclusion of HAp at 30% (wHAp/wGGMA) led to a storage modulus of 32.5 kPa, 3.5-fold greater than neat GGMA. In vitro studies proved the capability of the bioactivated 3D-printed scaffolds to support 7F2 osteoblast cell growth and differentiation. BSF-Eumel and HAp triggered a different time-dependent physiological response in the osteoblasts. Specifically, while the ink with BSF-Eumel acted as a stimulus towards cell proliferation, reaching the highest value at 14 days, a higher expression of alkaline phosphatase activity was detected for scaffolds consisting of GGMA and HAp. The overall findings demonstrated the possible use of these biomaterial inks for 3D-printed bone tissue-engineered scaffolds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is a brief and critical review of the state of the art in algae production in the food and energy industries. Review and experimental articles from the last five years were selected to recapitulate the reasons for interest in algae cultivation, for which we highlight the most valuable phytochemicals passing through their niches in the food market, their bioenergetic potential and the possible uses of algal waste biomass. In addition, we punctuate the advent of algae biorefineries. The objectives of this study were to list the main points related to interest in cultivation, drawing a parallel between the establishment of algae in the food market and its potential to establish itself in the energy market. It was concluded that the use of algae biorefineries has been used as a solution for the food, chemical and energy markets, despite the need for the development of broader research on industrial scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As attention to indoor environmental quality (IEQ) grows, a systematic strategy for assessing IEQ in schools needs to be developed. For this purpose, this paper presents a summary of parameters measured in school classrooms to characterize the quality of thermal, acoustic, and visual environments and indoor air quality (IAQ). The summary is based on a review of published literature reporting measurements in schools in Europe and North America in the past ten years. It also summarizes the measurement protocols and measured concentrations. Eighty-eight papers describing measurements in schools were identified and analyzed. No unique standardized measuring method was used in the reviewed studies and different parameters were measured. The most often measured parameters were those describing the thermal environment and IAQ. The former mainly comprised air temperature and relative humidity. The latter mainly comprised concentrations of carbon dioxide, particulate matter, radon, formaldehyde, and some volatile organic compounds. The measured parameters describing acoustic and visual environments mainly comprised noise level, reverberation time, and illuminance. A few studies reported additional measurements of radiant temperature, operative temperature, and speech intelligibility. Measurement protocols from different studies show inconsistency in sampling duration and location and expressed results. Measured concentrations also show high variation between studies, with some pollutants exceeding the threshold values proposed by local and/or international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO). This review provides the reference for developing a rating scheme and protocols for uniform characterization of classroom IEQ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasingly imperilled status of shark populations, there is a pressing need to evaluate management solutions. Given the threats posed by fishing, marine reserves (MRs) present a promising option.Ata Whenua (Fiordland) in the South Island of Aotearoa/New Zealand is an ideal location to investigate this phenomenon owing to the presence of several shark species in coastal MRs.One‐hundred and sixty‐seven baited remote underwater video deployments were made in five MRs. A multi‐model inference approach using generalized linear modelling was used to assess the combined effect of the MRs on two trophic groups of coastal sharks.Generalized linear modelling was used to assess the effect of protection on, firstly, the presence of broadnose sevengill sharks (Notorynchus cepedianus), while accounting for variations in environmental variables, and secondly, the combined relative abundance of mesopredatory sharks detected (spiny dogfish, Squalus acanthias; school shark, Galeorhinus galeus; and carpet shark, Cephaloscyllium isabellum).Mesopredators had a higher relative abundance in MRs by a factor of 2.5 and there was a strong significant effect of protection, suggesting that MRs have led to an increase in their abundance or a change in distribution. In contrast, there was no effect of protection detected for sevengill sharks.It is concluded that the relatively small (<40 km2) MRs sampled do not provide conservation benefits for a large, mobile shark, but that they are potentially large enough to offer protection for mesopredatory sharks with smaller home ranges.To be effective for shark conservation, we therefore recommend that MRs need to be appropriately sized for the ranging behaviour of the target species for protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to develop, apply and validate a mesh-free graph theory–based approach for rapid thermal modeling of the directed energy deposition (DED) additive manufacturing (AM) process. Design/methodology/approach: In this study, the authors develop a novel mesh-free graph theory–based approach to predict the thermal history of the DED process. Subsequently, the authors validated the graph theory predicted temperature trends using experimental temperature data for DED of titanium alloy parts (Ti-6Al-4V). Temperature trends were tracked by embedding thermocouples in the substrate. The DED process was simulated using the graph theory approach, and the thermal history predictions were validated based on the data from the thermocouples. Findings: The temperature trends predicted by the graph theory approach have mean absolute percentage error of approximately 11% and root mean square error of 23°C when compared to the experimental data. Moreover, the graph theory simulation was obtained within 4 min using desktop computing resources, which is less than the build time of 25 min. By comparison, a finite element–based model required 136 min to converge to similar level of error. Research limitations/implications: This study uses data from fixed thermocouples when printing thin-wall DED parts. In the future, the authors will incorporate infrared thermal camera data from large parts. Practical implications: The DED process is particularly valuable for near-net shape manufacturing, repair and remanufacturing applications. However, DED parts are often afflicted with flaws, such as cracking and distortion. In DED, flaw formation is largely governed by the intensity and spatial distribution of heat in the part during the process, often referred to as the thermal history. Accordingly, fast and accurate thermal models to predict the thermal history are necessary to understand and preclude flaw formation. Originality/value: This paper presents a new mesh-free computational thermal modeling approach based on graph theory (network science) and applies it to DED. The approach eschews the tedious and computationally demanding meshing aspect of finite element modeling and allows rapid simulation of the thermal history in additive manufacturing. Although the graph theory has been applied to thermal modeling of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), there are distinct phenomenological differences between DED and LPBF that necessitate substantial modifications to the graph theory approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]