Mini-Review of Biofilm Interactions with Surface Materials in Industrial Piping System.

The growth of biofilm, which is caused by microorganism accumulation and growth on wetted surfaces, may damage industrial piping systems, increase maintenance and cleaning costs for the system sterilization, and even divulge the immune system into high risk. This article systematically analyzes the biofilm interactions with piping surface materials from the perspectives of physical convection, and biological and chemical adhesion. The thermodynamics of the flow, bacterial surface sensing, and bio-communication are the most critical factors for biofilm attachment. Furthermore, experimental analysis methods as well as biofilm control and removal approaches, are also included in this study. Finally, the resistance and growth of biofilm, as well as the practical and advanced methodology to control the biofilm and challenges associated with technology, are also discussed. Moreover, this paper may also offer a significant reference for the practice and strategic applications to address the biofilm resistance issues in industrial piping.

Established and Nascent Entrepreneurs: Comparing the Mental Health, Self-Care Behaviours and Wellbeing in Singapore.

Mental health problems currently affect a quarter of the world's population. Recent research in western societies has started to examine the relationship between entrepreneurship and mental health problems such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia. However, little has been done to categorize entrepreneurs into different types and investigate how their levels of mental health and well-being correspond to these types. This study divided entrepreneurs into established and nascent categories and examined this topic in Singapore. By distributing two sets of surveys, a total of 834 responses were collected, with 346 responses from established entrepreneurs and 488 responses from nascent ones. The results showed that the nascent entrepreneurs' levels of well-being were found to be much lower than those of the established entrepreneurs. Furthermore, entrepreneurs with ADHD or dyslexia symptoms generally had a much lower level of life satisfaction, compared with those without. However, the self-care behaviours observed in this sample differed somewhat from observations made in western societies, which might be explained by the different cultures and habits in Singaporean society. The findings not only highlight the need for relevant organizations to support nascent entrepreneurs but serve to remind veteran entrepreneurs to practice more healthy self-care behaviours.