Search Results (233)

Intracellular lipid-binding proteins (iLBPs) are key mediators of intracellular transport for fatty acids and retinoids, functioning as lipid chaperones. Beyond lipid transport, iLBPs regulate signalling pathways, gene expression, oxidative balance, and inflammation. Furthermore, they are increasingly recognised for their involvement in gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, especially in cancer. iLBPs are classified into four different subfamilies, each displaying distinct tissue distributions and ligand preferences. Functional roles are context-dependent, for instance, CRABP2 may act as either tumour suppressor or promoter, and FABP4 exhibits metabolic state dependent effects. These proteins also influence drug resistance, immune evasion, and lipid-mediated signalling. Overall, iLBPs extend beyond lipid trafficking to intersect with oncogenic pathways, influence cell fate, and affect treatment response, highlighting their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in GI oncology. Full article

Background: In an increasingly digital marketplace, social media marketing activities (SMMAs) have become vital for building consumer–brand relationships, particularly among Generation Z (Gen Z) consumers. Coffee shops offer a unique context because they are lifestyle-oriented and highly dependent on repeat visits, making them especially responsive to digital engagement. This study examines the impact of SMMAs on brand loyalty in the Saudi Arabian coffee shop sector, with a particular focus on the mediating role of consumer brand preference and the moderating role of brand awareness. Drawing on the Stimulus–Organism–Response (S-O-R) framework and Generational Marketing Theory, the research explores how Gen Z consumers respond to social media efforts that are informative, interactive, trendy, and personalized. Methods: Data were collected using convenience sampling via an online survey of 412 Gen Z consumers in Saudi Arabia who follow at least one local or international coffee shop brand on social media. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test the hypothesized relationships, mediation, and moderation effects. Results: The findings revealed that SMMAs have a substantial direct effect on both brand loyalty and consumer brand preference. Moreover, consumer brand preference partially mediates the relationship between SMMAs and brand loyalty, underscoring its importance as a psychological mechanism in the formation of loyalty. Additionally, brand awareness was found to significantly moderate the SMMAs–brand loyalty relationship, with more potent effects observed among consumers with higher levels of brand familiarity. Implications: The study contributes theoretically by extending the S-O-R framework with Generational Marketing Theory, demonstrating the partial mediating role of brand preference and the moderating direct effect of brand awareness. Practically, the results suggest that coffee shop marketers should design social media strategies that are informative, interactive, trendy, and personalized while also investing in awareness-building campaigns to amplify loyalty among Gen Z consumers. Full article

This exploratory study investigates how youths aged 18–25 perceive and prioritize elements of the Integrated Digital Storytelling for Social Media (IDSM) framework in cultural heritage tourism contexts, addressing critical gaps between theoretical frameworks and contemporary social media engagement requirements. Through purposive sampling at cultural heritage tourism sites in Bangkok, Thailand, questionnaires were distributed to 100 participants to examine their preferences for cultural tourism video content and validate framework elements. Cultural authenticity emerged as the paramount consideration among participants, while traditional storytelling elements demonstrated sustained relevance when adapted for social media contexts. Youth participants preferred authentic mobile phone recordings over professional production, with optimal video durations and caption-dependent storytelling for mobile consumption. TikTok emerged as the primary motivational platform despite moderate usage frequency patterns. This exploratory study contributes preliminary empirical assessment of an integrated framework specifically designed for social media applications in cultural heritage tourism contexts. The findings provide evidence-based guidelines to help practitioners develop platform-optimized content strategies that effectively engage youth audiences while maintaining cultural authenticity. Full article

Autonomous robot companions must engage users to create long-lasting bonds that promote their better and frequent use. Previous studies in the area revealed that a personalised human–robot interaction facilitates such connections, leading people to use robots more frequently, improving how they perceive the robot. This paper presents a biologically inspired system based on reinforcement learning to endow care-dependent robot companions with adaptive preferences for objects and dynamic emotional responses that depend on the interaction context. The system generates and adapts the robot’s preferences towards objects based on user actions, simulated internal needs, and other factors such as the kind of object. We integrate the system into Mini, which is a robot companion that simulates behaviour inspired by the famous Tamagotchi toy to promote human–robot bonding. Mini encourages users to care for it by providing objects that restore its hunger, thirst, and boredom, reacting to the actions taken by users. We conducted a within-subjects user study where participants interacted with two robots: with preferences towards objects and emotional responses, and without them. The results indicate that participants perceived the robot with preferences and emotions as more natural—Animacy, Intelligence, and Agency dimensions—but not more likeable and sociable; however, most explicitly indicated their preferences towards the robot with adaptive preferences and emotions in the posterior analysis. Full article

The GXXXG motif, also called the glycine zipper, is a common sequence pattern that facilitates tight packing of secondary structures, especially through helix–helix interactions in both membrane and soluble proteins. However, its overall distribution, sequence variation, and structural preferences depending on context are not fully understood. Here, we offer a detailed, large-scale analysis of GXXXG motifs, examining over 25,000 unique UniProt sequences with structural data. We classified the motifs as transmembrane (TM), non-transmembrane (non-TM), or shared, based on their TM coverage, and analyzed them via statistical models, diversity measures, and compositional profiling. Our findings show that ≥60% TM coverage is a reliable cutoff to distinguish TM-specific motifs, which tend to have less sequence diversity, lower entropy, more hydrophobic residues (notably leucine, isoleucine, and valine), and rank–frequency distributions that follow a heavy-tailed pattern, indicating strong selective pressure. Conversely, non-TM motifs are more varied, with higher entropy and a preference for polar or flexible residues. Shared motifs have intermediate features, reflecting their functional versatility. Power-law and Zipfian analyses support the distinct statistical signatures of TM and non-TM motifs at the 60% coverage threshold. These results enhance our understanding of the structural and evolutionary roles of the GXXXG motif, setting clear standards for identifying TM-specific motifs and offering insights into membrane protein biology, synthetic design, and functional annotation. Full article

Suillus flavidus is an ectomycorrhizal fungus associated with moist, nutrient-poor habitats, particularly peat bogs and transitional mires, where it forms symbiotic relationships with two-needle pines, especially Pinus sylvestris. This study presents an updated assessment of its distribution in Poland, identifies key ecological factors influencing its occurrence—such as habitat type and phenology—and evaluates its conservation status in the context of sustainability goals. Analysis of available data shows that over two-thirds of the known sites in Poland are located in peatland ecosystems, with more than half occurring within protected areas. Although S. flavidus is distinctly hygrophilous, it appears to prefer moderately wet habitats, particularly swamp forests. Despite an increase in recorded localities over the past five decades, S. flavidus remains an endangered species due to the ongoing degradation of peatland habitats, which are increasingly threatened by land-use change, drainage, and climate-related shifts in hydrology. The species’ long-term survival depends on sustainable landscape management, the preservation of suitable host tree populations, and the inclusion of fungi in conservation and restoration strategies. Thus, S. flavidus should be considered both an indicator species and a relevant element in meeting sustainability goals. Full article

Fertilization is occasionally applied to promote early growth of outplanted tree seedlings. However, the effectiveness of fertilization can be obscured by topographic variations and competing vegetation. The aim of this study was to reevaluate the effects of fertilization and glutathione disulfide (GSSG) on Cryptomeria japonica D. Don (Japanese cedar) seedling height using a four-year dataset from a previous study showing no significant effects using linear models. The impact of treatment was examined using random forest, generalized additive models (GAMs), and structural equation models (SEMs), while accounting for topography and competing vegetation. Topographic features, including the topographic wetness index, were the primary determinants of height growth, reflecting C. japonica’s preference for moist environments. Although the effects of fertilization and GSSG were limited, the GAMs indicated marginal positive interactions in specific stable topographic contexts. The SEMs revealed that fertilization and GSSG indirectly negatively reduced height by increasing competing vegetation coverage. By applying these advanced statistical approaches, we demonstrate how treatment effects that conventional analyses might overlook can be detected, illustrating the methodological contribution of this study. These findings show that topography plays a dominant role in early C. japonica growth, and fertilization and GSSG provide only modest, context-dependent benefits. Full article

Background/Objectives: Parents of individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs) often carry significant emotional and relational burdens, yet their voices remain underrepresented in addiction research. This study explores how Greek parents navigate the long-term challenges of caring for adult children with SUDs, with a focus on emotional strain, caregiving identity, and culturally embedded coping strategies within a collectivist context. Methods: Eight Greek parents (six mothers and two fathers, aged 47–60) participated in in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Conversations were conducted either in person or via video call, depending on participant preference and geographical constraints. Data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to explore lived experience and the meaning-making processes shaping parental coping over time. Results: Four overarching themes were identified as follows: (1) Living in Vigilance, reflecting constant hyper-alertness, emotional exhaustion, and social withdrawal rooted in trauma; (2) Shifting Parental Identity, capturing the evolution of parents into caregivers, advocates, and informal caseworkers amid systemic neglect; (3) Struggling Within Systems, highlighting exclusion, blame, and fragmentation in institutional care—with moments of empathy holding outsized emotional weight; and (4) Coping as Cultural Duty, showing how caregiving was sustained through values of sacrifice, loyalty, and protective silence, even at great personal cost. Conclusions: Greek parents supporting adult children with SUDs face a complex interplay of trauma, cultural obligation, and institutional strain. Their coping is shaped by deeply held familial values rather than access to effective support. The findings call for culturally attuned, family-inclusive interventions and further research into long-term caregiving across diverse contexts. Full article

Efficient simulation of multiphase, multicomponent fluid flow in heterogeneous reservoirs is critical for optimizing hydrocarbon recovery. In this study, we investigate advanced linearization techniques for fully implicit compositional reservoir simulations, a problem characterized by highly nonlinear governing equations that challenge both accuracy and computational efficiency. We implement four methods—finite backward difference (FDB), finite central difference (FDC), operator-based linearization (OBL), and residual accelerated Jacobian (RAJ)—within an MPI-based parallel framework and benchmark their performance against a legacy simulator across three test cases: (i) a five-component hydrocarbon gas field with CO₂ injection, (ii) a ten-component gas field with CO₂ injection, and (iii) a ten-component gas field case without injection. Key quantitative findings include: in the five-component case, OBL achieved convergence with only 770 nonlinear iterations (compared to 841–843 for other methods) and reduced operator computation time to 9.6 of total simulation time, highlighting its speed for simpler systems; in contrast, for the more complex ten-component injection, FDB proved most robust with 706 nonlinear iterations versus 723 for RAJ, while OBL failed to converge; in noninjection scenarios, RAJ effectively captured nonlinear dynamics with comparable iteration counts but lower overall computational expense. These results demonstrate that the optimal linearization strategy is context-dependent—OBL is advantageous for simpler problems requiring rapid solutions, whereas FDB and RAJ are preferable for complex systems demanding higher accuracy. The novelty of this work lies in integrating these advanced linearization schemes into a scalable, parallel simulation framework and providing a comprehensive, quantitative comparison that extends beyond previous efforts in reservoir simulation literature. Full article

The availability of detritus is a key factor influencing aquatic biota and can significantly affect decomposition processes. In this study, we investigated how varying quantities of surrounding detritus impact leaf litter decay rates. It was tested in flowing and still-water microcosms to highlight context-dependent effects of surrounding detritus on leaf litter decomposition. To isolate the effect of detritus amount, experiments were conducted in laboratory microcosms simulating lotic and lentic ecosystems, each containing leaf fragments for decomposition assessments. Four detritus quantities were tested, with invertebrates either allowed or restricted from moving among detritus patches. Leaf decomposition rates were influenced by the amount of surrounding detritus, with slower decay observed at higher detritus conditions, regardless of invertebrate mobility. Detritivore distribution responded to both detritus quantity and oxygen availability, showing a preference for high detritus conditions. Additionally, detritus quantity affected microbial activity with a quadratic response, as indicated by leaf respiration rates. Overall, our findings indicate that the amount of surrounding detritus modulates leaf litter decomposition independently of invertebrate density, by influencing oxygen dynamics and, consequently, the activity of biological decomposers. Full article

This research analyzed university students’ perceptions of the use of generative artificial intelligence (hereafter Gen-AI) in a higher education context. Specifically, it addressed the potential benefits and challenges related to the application of these web-based resources. A mixed method was adopted and the sample consisted of 407 teacher training students enrolled in the Early Childhood and Primary Education Degrees in the Region of Murcia in Spain. The results indicated a clear recognition of the relevance of these technological tools for teaching and learning. Respondents highlighted the potential to engage them in academic tasks, increase their motivation, and personalize their learning pathways. However, participants identified some challenges related to technology dependency, ethical issues, and privacy concerns. By understanding learners’ beliefs and assumptions, educators and educational administrations can adapt Gen-AI according to learners’ needs and preferences to improve their academic performance. In learning practice, these adaptations could involve evidence-based interventions, such as AI literacy modules or hybrid assessment frameworks, to translate findings into practice. In addition, it is necessary to adjust materials, methodologies, and the assessment of the academic curriculum to facilitate student learning and ensure that all students have access to quality education and the adequate development of digital skills. Full article

The concept of sustainable development requires a more human-centered approach to management. Frederic Laloux’s organizational management models—green and teal organizations—offer a response to this challenge. Generational cohorts currently active in the labor market (Baby Boomers, Generation X, Generation Y, and Generation Z) differ in values, beliefs, and preferences, which may influence their acceptance of various organizational management models. This study aimed to examine how representatives of these generations perceive organizational management styles in the context of sustainable development. A qualitative study was conducted using a questionnaire completed by 263 respondents. The survey focused on teal, green, orange, amber, and red organizational models, and the results were analyzed statistically. The analysis showed that respondents’ work experiences with specific organizational management models are not dependent on generational affiliation. The highest levels of acceptance were observed for models aligned with sustainable development—green and teal organizations. Acceptance of these models is higher among younger generations, with the teal organizational model showing a statistically significant generational dependency. As Generation Z enters the labor market, some traditional management practices are becoming obsolete. The green organizational model demonstrates strong potential for current labor market conditions, while the teal organizational model shows high future implementation potential. The forecast suggests that acceptance of the teal organizational model among Generation Alpha may exceed 90%. Full article

Background/Objectives: Obstructive sleep apnea is a prevalent, yet often underdiagnosed, condition characterized by recurrent upper airway obstruction during sleep, leading to significant perioperative risks in surgical patients. This systematic review aims to evaluate the incidence and impact of objectively diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea on postoperative outcomes across various surgical specialties—including bariatric, orthopedic, cardiac, and otorhinolaryngologic surgeries—and to assess the effectiveness of preoperative screening and perioperative management strategies. Methods: A comprehensive literature search of PubMed was conducted for studies published between January 2013 and December 2024, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Included studies involved adult surgical patients with OSA confirmed by polysomnography or respiratory polygraphy. Studies were assessed for methodological quality using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Levels of Evidence framework. Results: The findings consistently indicated that obstructive sleep apnea significantly increases the risk of postoperative complications, such as respiratory depression, atrial fibrillation, acute kidney injury, delirium, and prolonged hospital stay. Continuous positive airway pressure therapy demonstrated a protective effect in bariatric and cardiac surgeries, though its effectiveness in orthopedic and otorhinolaryngologic contexts was inconsistent, largely due to adherence variability and limited implementation. Preoperative screening tools such as the STOP-BANG questionnaire were widely used, but their utility depended on integration with confirmatory diagnostics. Conclusions: Obstructive sleep apnea represents a significant, modifiable risk factor in surgical populations. Preoperative identification and risk-adapted perioperative management, including CPAP therapy and multimodal analgesia, may substantially reduce postoperative morbidity. However, further randomized trials and cost-effectiveness studies are needed to optimize care pathways and ensure consistent implementation across surgical disciplines. Full article

This study explores the impact of growth opportunities on the capital structure of South African banks, utilising panel data from registered banking institutions covering the period from 2014 to 2023. While a substantial body of literature examines the relationship between growth prospects and corporate leverage, limited attention has been paid to this interaction within the banking sector, particularly in emerging economies. By employing the dynamic panel Generalised Method of Moments (GMM) estimator to address endogeneity concerns, the analysis reveals a statistically significant positive relationship between growth opportunities and both the total debt ratio (TDR) and the long-term debt ratio (LTDR). In contrast, a significant negative association is found between growth opportunities and the short-term debt ratio (STDR). The findings suggest that banks with stronger growth prospects are more inclined to utilise long-term financing, possibly reflecting shareholder preferences for institutions with favourable future outlooks and lower refinancing risks. These results highlight the importance of aligning capital structure decisions with an institution’s growth trajectory, while indicating that this relationship shifts depending on the maturity of the debt considered. This study contributes to the existing literature by contextualising capital structure decisions within the framework of growth opportunities. Structure theory within the context of the banking sector in a developing market offers practical insights for strategic financial planning and regulatory policy. Full article

The conflicting demands of urban trees and walkable surfaces result in significant financial burdens for municipal administrators who understand that urban residents want tree-lined walkable surfaces. This study investigates three methodologies for mitigating this tension: suspended grating systems, modular box systems, and structural soils. A Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) was conducted to evaluate their suitability in dense urban areas, employing criteria categorized into Environmental, Economical, and Other considerations. The comparison focused on critical aspects such as the impact on tree health (root growth, water availability), installation complexity, initial costs, and overall suitability for diverse urban contexts. The MCA indicates that, under the given weighting of criteria, suspended grating systems (especially those suited for existing trees) rank the highest, primarily due to their superior root protection and minimal disturbance to established root systems. In contrast, modular box systems and structural soils emerge as particularly strong contenders for new tree plantings. Structural soils may have application at sites with existing trees, but the costs of removing native soil are a consideration. Sensitivity analysis suggests that modular box systems may become the preferred option when greater emphasis is placed on stormwater management and new plantings, rather than on challenges for existing trees or underground infrastructure. Structural soils score well in cost-effectiveness and installation speed but require careful implementation to address their lower root protection performance and long-term maintenance concerns. Ultimately, the optimal solution depends on unique site-specific conditions and budgetary constraints, emphasizing the necessity of tailored approaches to balance urban infrastructure with tree health. Full article