bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Conceptual Principles of Tax Planning of Enterprises in the Context of Fourth Industrial Revolution
Authors:   National Technical University of Ukraine «Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute», Hlushchenko Y. I. , Korohodova O. O. ,   National Technical University of Ukraine «Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute», Moiseienko T. Y. ,   National Technical University of Ukraine «Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute», Chernenko N. O. ,   National Technical University of Ukraine «Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute»
Published: June 2021

The authors disclose the essence of tax planning for domestic enterprises in the conditions of development of the economy in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Foreign experience as to approaches to interpretation of the phenomenon of «tax planning» is studied. It is substantiated that the existing modern approaches to the definition of the term of «tax planning» should be divided by the characteristics of purpose and subordination. The work contains a further elaboration of conceptual-categorical apparatus of taxation theory by closer defining of «tax planning», where, contrary to existing developments, it is proposed to assess the impact of elements of the current tax system on the efficiency of financial-economic activities of enterprises. A theoretical analysis of modern trends of tax planning is carried out and it is determined that the existing conditions of operation of enterprises are such phenomena as: digitalization of economic processes, robotization of business processes, influence of other factors of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and growth of uncertainty and level of risks for economic entities. According to the results of the research, it is defined that all these phenomena will affect the process of taxation of enterprises at the micro level due to the acceleration of data processing processes and changes in tax planning objects. The article explains the directions of further research on this topic, namely, the development of an economic-mathematical model of the influence of elements of the tax system in the context of the trends of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which becomes relevant in modern conditions of tax planning.
The Authentic Monk: A Study of ‘Authenticity’ within the Works of Thomas Merton
Authors: Lognion Lucas
Published: June 2021

This paper discusses the history of the concept “authenticity” within the works of Thomas Merton. During his undergraduate and graduate studies at Columbia is where he first developed a theme which would run through most of his religious writings: authenticity. By tracing this term back to his professor, Lionel Trilling, this will give us a new lens through which to view Thomas Merton’s teachings. This paper will also discuss other influences to his use of “authenticity,” including his prolonged exposure and affinity towards Marxism, as well as his interests in Existential writers such as Albert Camus. The discussion of authenticity in Merton’s work revolves around three themes: 1) Solitude, 2) Alienation, and 3) the Absurd. The goal of this paper is to not only illustrate the history of a particular concept in Merton’s work to more fully understand this Catholic monk, but will demonstrate that traditionally non-religious concepts and thinkers often influence the religious lives and experiences of mystics.
The Violence of Nonviolence: Contextualizing the Movements of King and Gandhi
Authors: Mileski Greg
Published: June 2021

King and Gandhi: two names that have come to be synonymous with nonviolence. And yet, the movements they led responded to and, in some cases with, significant violence. In a recent paper (2016), August H. Nimtz analyzes the role of violence in the movement of Dr. King, concluding that violence played a significant role in the success of the African-American Civil Rights Movement. Using Nimtz’s work as a starting point, this paper analyzes King’s movement and views, comparing definitions of “principled nonviolence” versus “pragmatic nonviolence.” From there, this paper analyzes the role of violence in the struggle for Indian independence from British colonialism and Gandhi’s own views on when, if ever, violence is appropriate. This paper concludes that, indeed, violence—that of sanctioned, state-sponsored violence and that of non-sanctioned actors—has had significant roles in both of these movements. In what way, then, could these movements be said to be nonviolent? Finally, this paper asks why there remains such an impetus to identify these movements, and their leaders, with “principled nonviolence.”
Tibetan Buddhism in the Digital Age: Exploring Online Buddhist Study, Practice, and Community on Ocean: The Vast Teachings of Chögyam Trungpa
Authors: Yonnetti Eben
Published: June 2021

This article investigates the growth of online religion through a study of Ocean: The Vast Teachings of Chögyam Trungpa. Opened to the public in the spring of 2015 with a series of courses, practices, and gatherings, Ocean describes itself as an online site of practice, study, and community dedicated to the life and teachings of the Tibetan Buddhist reincarnate teacher Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche (1939/40-1987). Closely examining Ocean’s history, design, and programs, I illustrate how Ocean exemplifies a shift from religion online primarily comprised of individuals consuming information toward the increasing presence of spaces that support more participatory, accessible, and interactive relationships among their users. I draw upon Heidi Campbell’s concept of “networked religion,” to examine Ocean as a novel space for the study and practice of Tibetan Buddhism that is both becoming entangled with users’ offline religious lives and practices and a new site for the negotiation of participation and authority.
Результативно-змістовні параметри особистісно-професійної адаптації фахівців соціономічної галузі
Authors: Жигаренко Ігор , Завацька Наталія
Published: June 2021

У статті розкрито результативно-змістовні параметри особистісно-професійної адаптації фахівців соціономічної галузі. Визначено діагностичні маркери мотиваційно-ціннісної (мотиваційні диспозиції особистості (потреби, мотиви, установки, ціннісні переживання), генеративність, просоціальна мотивація (орієнтація на альтруїзм), як основа професійної спрямованості особистості фахівця, та її взаємозвʼязок з ціннісними орієнтаціями і рівнем емоційного інтелекту); компетентнісно-функціональної (професійна компетентність (соціально-перцептивна, соціально-психологічна, аутопсихологічна, комунікативна складові); специфіка особистісно-професійного саморозвитку та його звʼязок з самоефективністю, психологічною і комунікативною компетентністю, а також з рефлексією, саморегуляцією і самоставленням; параметри самоактуалізації; рефлексивні і регулятивні особливості фахівця; рівень і структура професійного вигорання (емоційне виснаження, напруженість у роботі, професійний перфекціонізм, професійний розвиток та самовдосконалення, інтегративний індекс вигорання тощо));конативно-стильової (специфіка індивідуального стилю професійної діяльності за стильовими (відмінності складу компонентів, умов і параметрів діяльності, ієрархія механізмів адаптації) і рівневими (діапазон параметрів, кількісний склад компонентів і характер їх взаємозвʼязків) характеристиками; процесуальні показники діяльності за блоками професійної діяльності, професійного спілкування, особистості фахівця;рівні професійної культури; самооцінка індивідуального стилю діяльності за параметрами оригінальності і надситуативності, взаєморозуміння та можливостей корекції стилю діяльності) складових особистісно-професійної адаптації фахівців соціономічного профілю. Проведено аналіз результативно-змістовних параметрів особистісно-професійної адаптації та виокремлено стадії (емпірично-репродуктивну, адаптивно-евристичну, результативно-продуктивну) цього процесу на різних етапах професіоналізації фахівців соціономічного профілю.
Ключові слова: фахівці соціономічного профілю, особистісно-професійна адаптація, результативно-змістовні параметри особистісно-професійної адаптації, соціально-психологічні ресурси особистісно-професійної адаптації.
Assessment of Genetic Variability and Correlation of Yield Components of Elite Rice Genotypes (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Debsharma SK , Disha RF , Ahmed MME , Khatun M , Ibrahim M , Aditya TL
Published: June 2021

The study was conducted to evaluate the extent of variability among the elite rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes for yield and yield components. Sixteen elite rice genotypes were evaluated for yield and yield contributing characters in Bangladesh Rice Research Institute, Regional Station, Satkhira. Highest grain yield (t ha-1) was observed in BR(Bio)8333-BC5-2-16, which was followed by BR16, BRRI dhan28, BRRI dhan58 and BRRI dhan29. BR7671-37-2-2-37-3-P3 had the highest number of grains per panicle with minimum thousand grain weight. Correlation analysis revealed that the number of panicles per plant (0.301), days to 50% flowering (0.606) and grain yield per plant (0.393) had the significantly positive contribution to grain yield. After evaluation of yield components, four genotypes namely BR(Bio)8333-BC5-1-20, BR(Bio)8333-BC5-2-16, BR(Bio)8333- BC5-2-22 and BR(Bio)8333-BC5-3-10 were selected as outstanding genotypes, which can be used as potential breeding materials for variety development or in the crossing program to enrich the rice gene pool in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Rice J. 24 (1): 21-29, 2020
Elucidation of Genotype × Environment Interaction for Identification of Stable Genotypes to Grain Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Varieties in Bangladesh Rainfed Condition
Authors: Debsharma SK , Roy PR , Begum RA , Iftekharuddaula KM
Published: June 2021

The research was evaluated in seven ecological zones throughout the country following randomized complete block design with three replications in each location. The combined analysis of variance for grain yield indicated that the differences among all sources of variation were highly significant (P<0.01). Environment (E), Genotype (G) and G × E interaction effects explained by 25.54%, 17.02% and 48.97% for inbred and 35.26%, 17.03%, 31.23% for hybrid of the total sum of square, respectively. Locations E2 (Chattogram); E3 (Dhaka) for inbred and E2 (Chattogram); E4 (Khulna); E5 (Rajshahi); E7 (Sylhet) for hybrid varieties were found most discriminating and more informative among all. Ideal environment was found in E6 (Rangpur) for inbred and E4 (Khulna) for hybrid varieties. According to GGE mean and stability biplot, the most stable genotypes were G18 (BRRI dhan34); G26 (BRRI dhan52); G28 (BRRI dhan57); G19 (BRRI dhan37); G13 (BR25); G27 (BRRI dhan56); G21 (BRRI dhan39) for inbred and G2 (BADC hybrid dhan-2); G4 (BADC hybrid dhan-6); G5 (Bayer hybrid dhan-4) for hybrid compared to the other genotypes. The ideal genotypes were found G18 (BRRI dhan34) for inbred and G26 (BRRI hybrid dhan6) for hybrid varieties. In summary, we identified stable genotypes adapted across the environments for grain yield. These genotypes can be used as commercial cultivation with sustainable production as well as a parent/pre-breeding material in future rice breeding program.

Bangladesh Rice J. 24 (1): 59-71, 2020
Ecological co-benefits from sea cucumber farming: Holothuria scabra increases growth rate of seagrass
Authors: Arnull J , Wilson AMW , Brayne K , Dexter K , Donah AG , Gough CLA , Klückow T , Ngwenya B , Tudhope A
Published: June 2021

Sea cucumber aquaculture is increasing in extent and importance throughout the Indo-Pacific region, supplying a luxury seafood market in Asia. In this context, the grow-out of hatchery-bred juveniles in community-farmed pens is proving to be a viable model, providing increased income security and alternative livelihood options to resource-limited communities. Here, we report a study of the impacts of such sea cucumber farming on the growth of seagrass (a favourable habitat for the animals) at a village-scale aquaculture site in southwest Madagascar. Using experiments, we found that the presence of the hatchery-bred sea cucumberHolothuria scabra(sandfish), at stocking densities of 300 g m-2(similar to the density used in the farmed pens, but relatively high for natural populations), resulted in a large (~30%), statistically significant increase in the leaf extension rate of the locally dominant seagrass speciesThalassia hemprichii. However, the other dominant seagrass species,Cymodocea serrulata, did not significantly change its leaf extension rate in the presence ofH. scabra. Since seagrass is a globally important coastal habitat, supporting high biodiversity, carbon sequestration, shoreline stability and nursery grounds for commercial and small-scale fisheries, the positive effect ofH. scabrafarming on the growth rate of at least one dominant seagrass species implies potential important ecological co-benefits. These co-benefits ofH. scabrafarming are likely to be relevant across the tropical Indo-Pacific coastlines, where this species is cultured.
Climate resilience of irrigated quinoa in semi-arid West Africa
Authors: Alvar-Beltrán J , Gobin A , Orlandini S , Dao A , Marta AD
Published: June 2021

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is a herbaceous C3 crop that has demonstrated resilience in regions concurrently affected by climate change and food insecurity, such as sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The photosynthetic rate and productivity of C3 crops are enhanced under increasing CO2 concentrations. We looked at future climate trends in SSA to estimate their impacts on quinoa yields in Burkina Faso. Climate projections show a temperature increase of 1.67-4.90°C under Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5, respectively by the end of the century. We demonstrate that any further climate disturbances can either be beneficial or harmful for quinoa, and modulating climate risks will depend on the decisions made at the farm level (e.g. planting date and crop choice). Crop modelling supports the identification of the most suitable transplanting dates based on future climate conditions (RCP 4.5 and 8.5), agroclimatic zones (Sahel, Soudano-Sahelian and Soudanian) and time-horizons (2020, 2025, 2050 and 2075). We show that quinoa yields can improve—when grown under irrigated conditions and transplanted in November—by about 14-20% under RCP 4.5 and by 24-33% under RCP 8.5 by 2075 across the Sahel and Soudanian agroclimatic zones, respectively. For the Soudano-Sahelian zone, the highest yield improvements (19%) are obtained when transplanting is assumed in December under RCP 8.5 by 2075. Overall, the findings of this work encourage policymakers and agricultural extension officers to further promote climate-resilient and highly nutritious crops. Such possibilities are of much interest in SSA, thought to be highly vulnerable to climate change impacts where millions of people are already experiencing food insecurity.
Proton charge radius
Authors: Khabarova K Yu , Kolachevsky N N
Published: June 2021

The so-called proton charge radius puzzle was one of the challenging problems in physics in the last decade. A significant (at the level of four standard deviations (4σ)) difference between the values of the root-mean-square proton charge radius measured in normal and muonic hydrogen has kindled lively discussions among both experimentalists and theoreticians specializing in quantum electrodynamics. The problem becomes even more glaring (up to 7σ) if data on the scattering of electrons on protons are taken into account. We review various methods that enable measurement of the proton charge radius, analyze the origin of the disagreement, and present results of recent experiments that aim at resolving this puzzle.
Developing Clostridia as Cell Factories for Short- and Medium-Chain Ester Production
Authors: Wang Qingzhuo , Al Makishah Naief H. , Li Qi , Li Yanan , Liu Wenzheng , Sun Xiaoman , Wen Zhiqiang , Yang Sheng
Published: June 2021

Short- and medium-chain volatile esters with flavors and fruity fragrances, such as ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, and butyl butyrate, are usually value-added in brewing, food, and pharmacy. The esters can be naturally produced by some microorganisms. As ester-forming reactions are increasingly deeply understood, it is possible to produce esters in non-natural but more potential hosts. Clostridia are a group of important industrial microorganisms since they can produce a variety of volatile organic acids and alcohols with high titers, especially butanol and butyric acid through the CoA-dependent carbon chain elongation pathway. This implies sufficient supplies of acyl-CoA, organic acids, and alcohols in cells, which are precursors for ester production. Besides, some Clostridia could utilize lignocellulosic biomass, industrial off-gas, or crude glycerol to produce other branched or straight-chain alcohols and acids. Therefore, Clostridia offer great potential to be engineered to produce short- and medium-chain volatile esters. In the review, the efforts to produce esters from Clostridia via in vitro lipase-mediated catalysis and in vivo alcohol acyltransferase (AAT)-mediated reaction are comprehensively revisited. Besides, the advantageous characteristics of several Clostridia and clostridial consortia for bio-ester production and the driving force of synthetic biology to clostridial chassis development are also discussed. It is believed that synthetic biotechnology should enable the future development of more effective Clostridia for ester production.
Cellulose-Based Fibrous Materials From Bacteria to Repair Tympanic Membrane Perforations
Authors: Azimi Bahareh , Milazzo Mario , Danti Serena
Published: June 2021

Perforation is the most common illness of the tympanic membrane (TM), which is commonly treated with surgical procedures. The success rate of the treatment could be improved by novel bioengineering approaches. In fact, a successful restoration of a damaged TM needs a supporting biomaterial or scaffold able to meet mechano-acoustic properties similar to those of the native TM, along with optimal biocompatibility. Traditionally, a large number of biological-based materials, including paper, silk, Gelfoam®, hyaluronic acid, collagen, and chitosan, have been used for TM repair. A novel biopolymer with promising features for tissue engineering applications is cellulose. It is a highly biocompatible, mechanically and chemically strong polysaccharide, abundant in the environment, with the ability to promote cellular growth and differentiation. Bacterial cellulose (BC), in particular, is produced by microorganisms as a nanofibrous three-dimensional structure of highly pure cellulose, which has thus become a popular graft material for wound healing due to a number of remarkable properties, such as water retention, elasticity, mechanical strength, thermal stability, and transparency. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current experimental studies of BC, focusing on the application of BC patches in the treatment of TM perforations. In addition, computational approaches to model cellulose and TM are summarized, with the aim to synergize the available tools toward the best design and exploitation of BC patches and scaffolds for TM repair and regeneration.
A Robust Multiscale and Multiphasic Structure-Based Modeling Framework for the Intervertebral Disc
Authors: Zhou Minhao , Lim Shiyin , O’Connell Grace D.
Published: June 2021

A comprehensive understanding of multiscale and multiphasic intervertebral disc mechanics is crucial for designing advanced tissue engineered structures aiming to recapitulate native tissue behavior. The bovine caudal disc is a commonly used human disc analog due to its availability, large disc height and area, and similarities in biochemical and mechanical properties to the human disc. Because of challenges in directly measuring subtissue-level mechanics, such as in situ fiber mechanics, finite element models have been widely employed in spinal biomechanics research. However, many previous models use homogenization theory and describe each model element as a homogenized combination of fibers and the extrafibrillar matrix while ignoring the role of water content or osmotic behavior. Thus, these models are limited in their ability in investigating subtissue-level mechanics and stress-bearing mechanisms through fluid pressure. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a structure-based bovine caudal disc model, and to evaluate multiscale and multiphasic intervertebral disc mechanics under different loading conditions and with degeneration. The structure-based model was developed based on native disc structure, where fibers and matrix in the annulus fibrosus were described as distinct materials occupying separate volumes. Model parameters were directly obtained from experimental studies without calibration. Under the multiscale validation framework, the model was validated across the joint-, tissue-, and subtissue-levels. Our model accurately predicted multiscale disc responses for 15 of 16 cases, emphasizing the accuracy of the model, as well as the effectiveness and robustness of the multiscale structure-based modeling-validation framework. The model also demonstrated the rim as a weak link for disc failure, highlighting the importance of keeping the cartilage endplate intact when evaluating disc failure mechanisms in vitro. Importantly, results from this study elucidated important fluid-based load-bearing mechanisms and fiber-matrix interactions that are important for understanding disease progression and regeneration in intervertebral discs. In conclusion, the methods presented in this study can be used in conjunction with experimental work to simultaneously investigate disc joint-, tissue-, and subtissue-level mechanics with degeneration, disease, and injury.
Preparation of Lignin-Based Magnetic Adsorbent From Kraft Lignin for Adsorbing the Congo Red
Authors: Fang Lingyan , Wu Hao , Shi Yuxuan , Tao Yuheng , Yong Qiang
Published: June 2021

The utilization of lignin from different lignocellulosic biomass is the hot topic for the biorefinery of biomass. In this paper, magnetic lignin nanoparticles (MLN) were prepared by kraft lignin from bamboo residue and Fe3O4 with different ratios via Mannich reaction. The surface morphology and structure of magnetic lignin were characterized and analyzed by X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy, which confirmed that the MLN were successfully prepared. The performance of MLN adsorbents was evaluated by adsorbing Congo red solution at different initial concentrations and contact times. The results showed that Fe3O4@lignin (1:0.5) had the best adsorption effect on Congo red solution. When the concentration of Congo red reached 0.6 g/L, Fe3O4@lignin (1:0.5) had the best adsorption effect on Congo red, reaching 95.5% in only 30 min. As lignin is modified by Fe3O4, it can be recovered by magnetic substances after adsorption and has good reuse performance. The results of adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherm showed that except for the adsorption process of Fe3O4@lignin (1:0.5), which is consistent with the chemical adsorption of the multimolecular layer, the adsorption process of other adsorbents is in accordance with the chemical adsorption of the monomolecular layer. In terms of environmental protection and adsorption efficiency, and MLN has become an ideal adsorbent for Congo red dyes due to its simple preparation, superior performance, and convenient recovery.
MicroRNAs as Important Regulators Mediate the Multiple Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Yang Chao , Luo Maowen , Chen Yu , You Min , Chen Qiang
Published: June 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous short non-encoding RNAs which play a critical role on the output of the proteins, and influence multiple biological characteristics of the cells and physiological processes in the body. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are adult multipotent stem cells and characterized by self-renewal and multidifferentiation and have been widely used for disease treatment and regenerative medicine. Meanwhile, MSCs play a critical role in maintaining homeostasis in the body, and dysfunction of MSC differentiation leads to many diseases. The differentiation of MSCs is a complex physiological process and is the result of programmed expression of a series of genes. It has been extensively proven that the differentiation process or programmed gene expression is also regulated accurately by miRNAs. The differentiation of MSCs regulated by miRNAs is also a complex, interdependent, and dynamic process, and a full understanding of the role of miRNAs will provide clues on the appropriate upregulation or downregulation of corresponding miRNAs to mediate the differentiation efficiency. This review summarizes the roles and associated signaling pathways of miRNAs in adipogenesis, chondrogenesis, and osteogenesis of MSCs, which may provide new hints on MSCs or miRNAs as therapeutic strategies for regenerative medicine and biotherapy for related diseases.
BCAT1 Activates PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway and Contributes to the Angiogenesis and Tumorigenicity of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Shu Xiong , Zhan Pan-Pan , Sun Li-Xin , Yu Long , Liu Jun , Sun Li-Chao , Yang Zhi-Hua , Ran Yu-Liang , Sun Yue-Min
Published: June 2021

Background

Focusing on antiangiogenesis may provide promising choices for treatment of gastric cancer (GC). This study aimed to investigate the mechanistic role of BCAT1 in the pathogenesis of GC, particularly in angiogenesis.

Methods

Bioinformatics and clinical samples analysis were used to investigate the expression and potential mechanism of BCAT1 in GC. BGC823 cells with BCAT1 overexpression or silencing were induced by lentiviral transduction. Cell phenotypes and angiogenesis were evaluated. The relevant proteins were quantized by Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, or immunofluorescence. Xenograft models were constructed to confirm the role of BCAT1 in vivo.

Results

BCAT1 was overexpressed in GC patients and associated with lower survival. BCAT1 expression was correlated with proliferation-, invasion-, or angiogenesis-related markers expression and pathways. Silencing BCAT1 expression suppressed cell viability, colony formation, cycle progression, invasion, and angiogenesis of BGC823 cells, as well as the tumor growth of xenograft models, whereas overexpressing BCAT1 had the opposite results both in vitro and in vivo. Bioinformatics analysis and Western blotting demonstrated that BCAT1 activated the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. The addition of LY294002 reversed the tumor growth induced by BCAT1 overexpression, further verifying this mechanism.

Conclusion

BCAT1 might act as an oncogene by facilitating proliferation, invasion, and angiogenesis through activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. This finding could aid the optimization of antiangiogenesis strategies.
PGE2 Supplementation of Oocyte Culture Media Improves the Developmental and Cryotolerance Performance of Bovine Blastocysts Derived From a Serum-Free in vitro Production System, Mirroring the Inner Cell Mass Transcriptome
Authors: Charpigny Gilles , Marquant-Le Guienne Brigitte , Richard Christophe , Adenot Pierre , Dubois Olivier , Gélin Valérie , Peynot Nathalie , Daniel Nathalie , Brochard Vincent , Nuttinck Fabienne
Published: June 2021

The culture media used throughout the in vitro production (IVP) of bovine embryos remain complex. The serum added to culture media in order to improve embryo development negatively impacts the cryotolerance of blastocysts. Periconceptional prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) signaling is known to exert prosurvival effects on in vitro-generated blastocysts. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects on developmental and cryotolerance performance of a serum-free (SF) IVP system that included defined oocyte culture media supplemented or not with PGE2, versus serum-containing (SC) IVP. RNA-sequencing analysis was used to examine the gene expression of ICM derived under the different IVP conditions. We assessed the degree of cryotolerance of grade-I blastocysts during a three-day post-thaw culture by measuring survival and hatching rates, counting trophectoderm and inner cell mass (ICM) blastomere numbers. We also determined the proportion of ICM cells expressing octamer-binding transcription factor 4 protein (OCT4/POU5F1). We showed that grade-I blastocyst development rates under SF + PGE2 conditions were similar to those obtained under SC conditions, although the cleavage rate remained significantly lower. SC IVP conditions induced changes to ICM gene expression relative to several metabolic processes, catabolic activities, cell death and apoptosis. These alterations were associated with significantly higher levels of ICM cell death at day 7 post-fertilization, and lower survival and hatching rates after thawing. SF IVP conditions supplemented or not with PGE2 induced changes to ICM gene expression related to DNA replication, metabolism and double-strand break repair processes, and were associated with significantly larger ICM cell populations after thawing. SF + PGE2 IVP induced changes to ICM gene expression related to epigenetic regulation and were associated with a significantly higher proportion of ICM cells expressing OCT4. For the first time, our study thus offers a comprehensive analysis of the ICM transcriptome regulated by IVP culture conditions in terms of the cellular changes revealed during culture for three days after thawing.
Salamander Insights Into Ageing and Rejuvenation
Authors: Yun Maximina H.
Published: June 2021

Exhibiting extreme regenerative abilities which extend to complex organs and entire limbs, salamanders have long served as research models for understanding the basis of vertebrate regeneration. Yet these organisms display additional noteworthy traits, namely extraordinary longevity, indefinite regenerative potential and apparent lack of traditional signs of age-related decay or “negligible senescence.” Here, I examine existing studies addressing these features, highlight outstanding questions, and argue that salamanders constitute valuable models for addressing the nature of organismal senescence and the interplay between regeneration and ageing.
Silver–Graphene Oxide Nanohybrids for Highly Sensitive, Stable SERS Platforms
Authors: Kasztelan Mateusz , Studzinska Anna , Żukowska Grażyna Zofia , Pałys Barbara
Published: June 2021

Graphene oxide–silver nanoparticle nanohybrids were synthesized by simple reduction of the silver nitrate and graphene oxide (GO) mixture in water using the mild reducing agent ascorbic acid. The concentration of ascorbic acid was varied to verify the possible influence of the GO surface composition on the efficiency of the hybrid material as substrates for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Furthermore, the composites were conditioned in ammonia solution or in potassium hydroxide diluted solution. For comparison, the graphene oxide–silver nanoparticle composite has been synthesized using the ammonia-treated GO. All materials were characterized using spectroscopic and microscopic methods including UV–Vis, infrared, and Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The SERS efficiency of the nanohybrids was tested using 4-aminothiophenol (PATP). The optimal synthesis conditions were found. Ammonia and potassium peroxide drop-casted on the composite changed the SERS properties. The sample treated with KOH showed the best SERS enhancement. The variation of the SERS enhancement was correlated with the shape of the UV–Vis characteristics and the surface structure of the composites.
Compound Hot and Dry Events in Europe: Variability and Large-Scale Drivers
Authors: Ionita Monica , Caldarescu Diana E. , Nagavciuc Viorica
Published: June 2021

An important aspect of inevitable surprises, for the climate system, is the potential of occurrence of compound extreme events. These can be events that occur at the same time over the same geographic location or at multiple locations within a given country or around the world. In this study, we investigate the spatio-temporal variability of summer compound hot and dry (CHD) events at European level and we quantify the relationship between the occurrence of CHDs and the large-scale atmospheric circulation. Here we show that summer 1955 stands out as the year with the largest spatial extent characterized by hot and dry conditions (~21.2% at European level), followed by 2015 (~20.3%), 1959 (~19.4%), and 1950 (~16.9%). By employing an Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF) analysis we show that there are three preferred centers of action of CHDs over Europe: Fennoscandia, the central part of Europe, and the south-eastern part of Europe. Overall, hot and dry summers are, in general, associated with persistent high-pressure systems over the regions affected by CHDs, which in turn reduces the zonal flow and diverts the storm tracks southward. The high-pressure systems associated with each mode of variability largely suppresses ascending motions, reduces water vapor condensation and precipitation formation, leading to drought conditions below this atmospheric system. This study may help improve our understanding of the spatio-temporal variability of hot and dry summers, at European level, as well as their driving mechanisms.
Assessment of Myocardial Dysfunction by Three-Dimensional Echocardiography Combined With Myocardial Contrast Echocardiography in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Li Wei , Lv Xiao-zhou , Liu Jia , Zeng Jia-hui , Ye Min , Li Cui-ling , Fan Rui , Lin Hong , Huang Hui-ling , Yao Feng-juan
Published: June 2021

Background: We aimed to explore the value of combining real-time three-dimensional echocardiography (RT-3DE) and myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE) in the left ventricle (LV) evaluating myocardial dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients.

Patients and Methods: A total of 58 T2DM patients and 32 healthy individuals were selected for this study. T2DM patients were further divided into T2DM without microvascular complications (n = 29) and T2DM with microvascular complications (n = 29) subgroups. All participants underwent RT-3DE and MCE. The standard deviation (SD) and the maximum time difference (Dif) of the time to the minimum systolic volume (Tmsv) of the left ventricle were measured by RT-3DE. MCE was performed to obtain the perfusion measurement of each segment of the ventricular wall, including acoustic intensity (A), flow velocity (β), and A·β.

Results: There were significant differences in all Tmsv indices except for Tmsv6-Dif among the three groups (all P < 0.05). After heart rate correction, all Tmsv indices of the T2DM with microvascular complications group were prolonged compared with the control group (all P < 0.05). The parameters of A, β, and A·β for overall segments showed a gradually decreasing trend in three groups, while the differences between the three groups were statistically significant (all P < 0.01). For segmental evaluation of MCE, the value of A, β, and A·β in all segments showed a decreasing trend and significantly differed among the three groups (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions: The RT-3DE and MCE can detect subclinical myocardial dysfunction and impaired myocardial microvascular perfusion. Left ventricular dyssynchrony occurred in T2DM patients with or without microvascular complications and was related to left ventricular dysfunction. Myocardial perfusion was reduced in T2DM patients, presenting as diffuse damage, which was aggravated by microvascular complications in other organs.
CutLang v2: Advances in a Runtime-Interpreted Analysis Description Language for HEP Data
Authors: Unel G. , Sekmen S. , Toon A. M. , Gokturk B. , Orgen B. , Paul A. , Ravel N. , Setpal J.
Published: June 2021

We will present the latest developments in CutLang, the runtime interpreter of a recently-developed analysis description language (ADL) for collider data analysis. ADL is a domain-specific, declarative language that describes the contents of an analysis in a standard and unambiguous way, independent of any computing framework. In ADL, analyses are written in human-readable plain text files, separating object, variable and event selection definitions in blocks, with a syntax that includes mathematical and logical operations, comparison and optimisation operators, reducers, four-vector algebra and commonly used functions. Adopting ADLs would bring numerous benefits to the LHC experimental and phenomenological communities, ranging from analysis preservation beyond the lifetimes of experiments or analysis software to facilitating the abstraction, design, visualization, validation, combination, reproduction, interpretation and overall communication of the analysis contents. Since their initial release, ADL and CutLang have been used for implementing and running numerous LHC analyses. In this process, the original syntax from CutLang v1 has been modified for better ADL compatibility, and the interpreter has been adapted to work with that syntax, resulting in the current release v2. Furthermore, CutLang has been enhanced to handle object combinatorics, to include tables and weights, to save events at any analysis stage, to benefit from multi-core/multi-CPU hardware among other improvements. In this contribution, these and other enhancements are discussed in details. In addition, real life examples from LHC analyses are presented together with a user manual.
Combined On-Fault and Off-Fault Paleoseismic Evidence in the Postglacial Infill of the Inner-Alpine Lake Achensee (Austria, Eastern Alps)
Authors: Oswald Patrick , Moernaut Jasper , Fabbri Stefano C. , De Batist Marc , Hajdas Irka , Ortner Hugo , Titzler Sebastian , Strasser Michael
Published: June 2021

The Eastern European Alps are characterized by slow active deformation with low- to moderate seismicity. Recurrence rates of severe earthquakes exceed the time span of historical documentation. Therefore, historical and instrumental earthquake records might be insufficient for seismic hazard assessment and high-quality paleoseismic data is required. However, primary geological observations of postglacial fault activity are scarcely found, because major faults are buried below thick sedimentary sequences in glacially overdeepened valleys. Moreover, high erosion rates, gravitational slope processes and penetrative anthropogenic landscape modification often obscure geomorphic features related to surface ruptures. Here we present one of the rare paleoseismic data sets showing both on-fault evidence as subaqueous surface ruptures and off-fault evidence as multiple coeval mass-transport deposits (MTDs) and megaturbidites within a single high-resolution seismic-stratigraphic framework of the inner-alpine lake Achensee. Co-occurrence of on-fault and off-fault paleoseismic evidence on three stratigraphic levels indicates seismic activity with inferred moment magnitudes MW ∼6–6.5 of the local, lake-crossing Sulzgraben-Eben thrust at ∼8.3 ka BP and twice in Late Glacial times. Additional eight stratigraphic levels with only off-fault paleoseismic evidence document severe seismic shaking related to the historical MW ∼5.7 earthquake in Hall (CE 1670) and seven Holocene earthquakes, which have exceeded a local seismic intensity of ∼VI (EMS-98) at Achensee. Furthermore, we discuss natural and methodological influencing factors and potential pitfalls for the elaboration of a subaqueous paleoseismic record based on surface ruptures and multiple, coeval MTDs.
The Impact of 68Gallium DOTA PET/CT in Managing Patients With Sporadic and Familial Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumours
Authors: Cuthbertson Daniel J. , Barriuso Jorge , Lamarca Angela , Manoharan Prakash , Westwood Thomas , Jaffa Matthew , Fenwick Stephen W. , Nuttall Christina , Lalloo Fiona , Prachalias Andreas , Pizanias Michail , Wieshmann Hulya , McNamara Mairead G. , Hubner Richard , Srirajaskanthan Raj , Vivian Gillian , Ramage John , Weickert Martin O. , Pritchard D Mark , Vinjamuri Sobhan , Valle Juan , Yip Vincent S.
Published: June 2021

Objective

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (panNETs) arise sporadically or as part of a genetic predisposition syndrome. CT/MRI, endoscopic ultrasonography and functional imaging using Octreoscan localise and stage disease. This study aimed to evaluate the complementary role of 68Gallium (68Ga)-DOTA PET/CT in managing patients with panNETs.

Design

A retrospective study conducted across three tertiary UK NET referral centres.

Methods

Demographic, clinical, biochemical, cross-sectional and functional imaging data were collected from patients who had undergone a 68Ga-DOTA PET/CT scan for a suspected panNET.

Results

We collected data for 183 patients (97 male): median (SD) age 63 (14.9) years, 89.1 vs. 9.3% (n=163 vs. 17) alive vs. dead (3 data missing), 141 sporadic vs. 42 familial (MEN1, n=36; 85.7%) panNETs. Non-functional vs. functional tumours comprised 73.2 vs. 21.3% (n=134 vs. 39) (10 missing). Histological confirmation was available in 89% of individuals (n=163) but tumour grading (Ki67 classiifcation) was technically possible only in a smaller cohort (n=143): grade 1, 50.3% (n=72); grade 2, 46.2% (n=66) and grade 3, 3.5% (n=5) (40 histopathological classification either not technically feasible or biopsy not perfomed). 60.1% (n=110) were localised, 14.2% (n=26) locally advanced and 23.5% (n=43) metastatic (4 missing). 224 68Ga-DOTA PET/CT scans were performed in total for: diagnosis/staging 40% (n=88), post-operative assessment/clinical surveillance 53% (n=117) and consideration of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) 8% (n=17) (2 missing). PET/CT results confirmed other imaging findings (53%), identified new disease sites (28.5%) and excluded suspected disease (5%). Overall, 68Ga-DOTA PET/CT imaging findings provided additional information in 119 (54%) patients and influenced management in 85 (39%) cases.

Conclusion

68Ga-DOTA PET/CT imaging more accurately stages and guides treatment in patients with sporadic/familial panNETs with newly diagnosed/recurrent disease.
Techno-Economic Optimization of an Integrated Biomass Waste Gasifier–Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Plant
Authors: Pérez-Fortes Mar , He Victoria , Nakajo Arata , Schiffmann Jürg , Maréchal François , Van herle Jan
Published: June 2021

With a growing energy demand in a carbon-constrained society, fuels cells powered by renewable fuels, and specifically solid waste, are seen as interesting contributors to the energy portfolio. The alternative energy industry needs to reduce costs, enhance efficiency, and demonstrate durability and reliability to be economically feasible and attractive. This paper addresses biomass waste gasification in distributed energy systems, using a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) to produce electricity and heat. The potential and optimal plant efficiency and layout (i.e., anode off-gas (AOG) recirculation point via small-scale turbomachinery and heat exchanger network) are analyzed through a multi-stage approach that includes scenario evaluation and multi-objective optimization via a hybrid optimization strategy with heuristics and mathematical programming. The results in this paper summarize the most convenient operating conditions and provide an optimized heat exchanger network (HEN). The AOG recirculation toward the gasifier combustor is the preferred option; the electrical and thermal efficiencies can separately go up to 49 and 47%, respectively. The combined total efficiency ranges between 76 and 82%, and the area of heat exchange, which corresponds to an amount of heat exchanged between 91 and 117 kW, is within 6–14 m2.
Society’s Willingness to Pay for Certified Dry Firewood Energy in Chile
Authors: García Leidy Y. , Cerda Arcadio A. , Lagos Rocio del P. , Muñoz Patricio I. , Muñoz Monserrat
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Air pollution is present in most cities in Chile due to smoke produced from firewood, as happened in many developing countries, generating various health problems among the population. This situation is especially prevalent in all cities in central and southern Chile. To mitigate it, the government implemented several measures, among which are the promotion of the use of certified dry firewood and hourly restrictions on the use of wood-burning stoves for heating according to the peak emissions of particulate matter.

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the willingness to pay for certified dry firewood as a means of reducing environmental restrictions on the use of wood-burning stoves to heat households.

Materials and methods: The study used a non-market valuation, specifically contingent valuation, method using a double-bounded dichotomous choice format with the estimation of biprobit econometric models.

Results: The results showed that the average individual was willing to pay 12 USD, and extrapolating that to the local population’s willingness to pay yielded an economic value of 3,415,140 USD, which to a certain extent represents the valuation of air pollution damage.

Conclusion: Our results showed that people positively valued the use of dry firewood as a payment vehicle to improve air quality and thereby reduce restrictions on the use of certified dry firewood for heating. Therefore, complementary environmental policy measures should be continued to address the problem of air pollution in both the short and long term.
Co-Sintering Study of Na0.67[Ni0.1Fe0.1Mn0.8]O2 and NaSICON Electrolyte–Paving the way to High Energy Density All-Solid-State Batteries
Authors: Dück Gerald , Naqash Sahir , Finsterbusch Martin , Breuer Uwe , Guillon Olivier , Fattakhova-Rohlfing Dina
Published: June 2021

Sodium is a promising candidate for stationary storage applications, especially when the demand for lithium-ion batteries increases due to electromobility applications. Even though its energy density is lower, Na-ion technology is estimated to lead to a cost reduction of 30% compared to Li-ion technology. To improve safety as well as energy density, Na-based all-solid-state-batteries featuring solid electrolytes such as beta-alumina and sodium superionic conductors and cathode materials such as Na3V2(PO4)3 and NaxCoO2 have been developed over the past years. However, the biggest challenge are mixed cathodes with highly conductive interfaces, especially when co-sintering the materials. For example, a promising sodium superionic conductor type Na3Zr2Si2PO12 electrolyte sinters at 1,250°C, whereas the corresponding Na3V2PO12 cathode decomposes at temperatures higher than 900°C, posing a bottleneck. Thus in this paper, we synthesized Na0.62 [Ni0.10Fe0.10Mn0.80]O2 as cathode material for all-solid-state sodium-ion batteries via a relatively cheap and easy solution-assisted solid state reaction processing route. The thermal investigations of the pure cathode material found no degradation up to 1,260°C, making it a perfect match for Na3.4Zr2Si2.4P0.6O12 electrolyte. In our aim to produce a co-sintered mixed cathode, electron microscopy investigation showed a highly dense microstructure and the elemental mapping performed via energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and secondary ion mass spectrometry confirm that Na3.4Zr2Si2.4P0.6O12 and Na0.62 [Ni0.10Fe0.10Mn0.80]O2 do not react during sintering. However, the active cathode material forms a sodium rich and a sodium deficient phase which needs further investigation to understand the origin and its impact on the electrochemical performance.