bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tef (Eragrostis tef) Responses to Phosphorus and Potassium Fertigation under Semi-Arid Mediterranean Climate
Authors: Halpern Moshe , Gashu Kelem , Zipori Isaac , Saranga Yehoshua , Yermiyahu Uri
Published: August 2021

Tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) is an annual small grain, panicle bearing, C4 cereal crop native to Ethiopia, where it is a major staple food. The objectives of the present study were to characterize the responses of two tef genotypes to escalating phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) levels and to determine an optimum range for P and K at which tef performance is maximized. Two experiments were carried out in the Gilat Research Station, each testing two different genotypes of tef (405B and 406W), one experiment in pots in controlled conditions, and the other in the field. In both experiments, the highest grain yield increased until 6 mg L−1 P, and declined at 12 mg L−1 P. The decline was precipitous and significant in the pot experiment, and gradual and statistically insignificant in the field experiment. In the pots experiment, the grain yield increased until 40 mg L−1 K, with no significant decrease thereafter. The effect of K concentration was only seen in the grain yield and not in the size of the other plant organs. In the field experiment, grain yield was highest at 80 mg L−1 K, but it was not statistically different from 40 mg L−1. The effect of K on growth was only apparent at maturity and not at flowering.
Implementation of the Nagoya Protocol in Livestock Sector: What Have We Learnt So Far?
Authors: Martyniuk Elzbieta , Haska Aleksandra
Published: August 2021

The aim of the paper was to analyze impacts of seven years of implementation of the Nagoya Protocol on the livestock sector based on available sources of information and literature. Interim National Reports on implementation of the Nagoya Protocol provided by countries and other information available at the ABS Clearing House managed by the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity, especially Internationally Recognized Certificates of Compliance (IRCC), were analyzed. Moreover, trends in geneflow of breeding products in selected countries, based on the national reports provided to the UN COMATRADE database, have been compared. Analysis from these sources showed limited impact of the implementation of the Nagoya Protocol for livestock breeding and conservation, as out of 2370 IRCC issued by 31 May 2021, only 573 were granted for animal genetic/biological resources including 90 with livestock as the subject matter. Only one IRCC was granted to a foreign user; all other IRCC were issued for domestic users. The intent was to use livestock genetic/biological resources as bioresources for innovation, which should lead to establishment of the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) with benefits to be shared through the National Competent Authority or for research purposes.
Can Animals Be the Key to the Development of Tourism: A Case Study of Livestock in Agritourism
Authors: Jęczmyk Anna , Uglis Jarosław , Steppa Ryszard
Published: August 2021

Animals are an integral part of human life. Currently, they constitute a relevant factor contributing to the tourist experiences of individuals travelling for tourist purposes. Domestic (farm) animals constitute a tourist attraction, are a source of income for individuals running agritourism farms, and render the tourists’ stay in rural areas more attractive. It is important to maintain the welfare of livestock based on principles of sustainability. The authors conducted research among agritourism providers in Wielkopolska Voivodeship. The aim of the survey was to determine whether agritourism farms keep livestock, what species they are, and whether they are important in building an agritourism product and what the prospects are for using animals in agritourism. A questionnaire was used for the study. The use of a variety of animal species facilitates the maintenance of biodiversity on the farm. Our research shows that 57.3% of the analysed agritourism providers included animals. Additionally, we discovered that the presence of livestock acts as a magnet that draws more tourists towards the individuals running agritourism farms and thus causes them to obtain higher profit from the agritourism business. According to the surveyed individuals, the most influential reason for the absence of livestock on their farms was the lack of financial resources and conditions to provide the animals with proper maintenance. Such findings may prompt the introduction of livestock as a tourist attraction in agritourism in other regions.
Affordability, Feasibility, and Accessibility: Companion Animal Guardians with (Dis)Abilities’ Access to Veterinary Medical and Behavioral Services during COVID-19
Authors: Wu Haorui , Bains Ravinder Sarah , Morris Amy , Morales Celeste
Published: August 2021

The research aims to explore COVID-19 health and safety protocol impacts on companion animal guardians living with (dis)abilities relating to veterinary medical and behavioral service access. The COVID-19 global public health crisis has impacted almost all international communities; however, vulnerable and marginalized groups have been disproportionately affected. Within the human–companion animal domain, COVID-19-driven societal impacts (e.g., social, health, and economic) not only boomed with new companion animal guardians, but also negatively influenced guardians’ access to veterinary services. Although studies have examined guardian-related COVID-19-specific challenges, there is a paucity of concentration on vulnerable populations, such as persons with disabilities (PWDs). Responding to this research deficit, this study recruited twelve companion animal guardians to participate in semi-structured in-depth interviews, and eight (67%) of the twelve participants self-identified as PWDs. From a PWD perspective, this research reveals three pandemic-triggered primary barriers, preventing PWDs from pursuing veterinary services: (1) service affordability, (2) assistance program feasibility, and (3) veterinary service accessibility. This article argues that PWD-driven approaches could improve existing assistance and support programs to address PWDs’ unique requirements, promoting a healthy human–animal bond.
Falls Are the Leading Cause of Injuries among Farmers—Limitations of Practicing Judo in Preventing These Incidents
Authors: Blach Wieslaw , Dobosz Dawid , Gasienica-Walczak Bartlomiej , Grants Juris , Litwiniuk Artur
Published: August 2021

Benefits related to doing martial arts go beyond health-related and constitute very useful life skills. One of them is ability to fall safely. It is an important skill since falls are a common cause of injuries. The aim of the study is knowledge regarding the burden of falls in a population of farmers. This systematic review was prepared according to PRISMA guidelines. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Springer Link, Web of Science. A total of 21 articles met eligibility criteria. The common general observation was that fall (regardless of type) caused various body injuries in populations of agriculture workers. Fall was the leading cause of injuries in only one population, and the most frequently classified second or third causes among all other listed injuries. People employed in the agriculture sector constitute an occupational group with an increased risk of injury as a result of accidental fall, which may lead to disability or even death (in extreme situations). Safe fall training would be an important addition to traditional fall prophylaxis applied on farms. The authors indicate the limitations of judo as a base of such a program, such as with superficial analysis of this issue in scientific publications. There is a need for a critical and wary approach to recommendations that are limited to prophylaxis of the effects of accidental falls that are founded on judo or other combat sports and martial arts.
A Review of the Vibration Arthrography Technique Applied to the Knee Diagnostics
Authors: de Tocqueville Sophie , Marjin Mihaela , Ruzek Michal
Published: August 2021

When a joint undergoes a range of motion, its constituents rub against each other, causing friction and thus vibrations. The vibration arthrography (VAG) technique consists of detecting, recording, and processing those vibrations to diagnose disorders. This non-invasive method could be an alternative to the currently used arthroscopy or X-rays. It has been revealed to be as accurate as these methods in terms of detecting pathologies such as osteoarthritis (OA). Moreover, vibrational analysis has highlighted some physiological signals associated with the displacement of knee joint components. Thus, vibroarthrography provides further understanding of the internal mechanisms of the knee joint. This paper aims to examine the research progress on the use of this vibration arthrography technique in diagnosing knee disorders.
Optimization of Design and Technology of Injector Nozzles in Terms of Minimizing Energy Losses on Friction in Compression Ignition Engines
Authors: Monieta Jan , Kasyk Lech
Published: August 2021

The operation of injection apparatus in self-ignition engines results from the design, manufacturing technology and wear and tear during operation. The technical state of the injector apparatus significantly affects the engine performance, fuel consumption, toxicity and smoke opacity of outlet gases. The most unreliable element of the injection apparatus is the injector nozzle, the quality of which depends on the quality of construction and production, operating conditions and the of the fuels used, etc. One of the design parameters of the injector nozzles, determining the technical state is the geometry of the nozzle holes. An attempt was made to optimize the selection of the dimensions and surface condition of the spray holes to significantly affect the flow properties of the injector nozzles and, consequently, to decide on the size and form of fuel dosed streams to individual cylinders of a self-ignition engine and the quality of fuel atomization. In work, a simulation model was developed, and the pressure losses and the mass fluid of the injected fuel were minimized for selected significant geometric features, taking into account the influence of operating conditions. With the use of Mathematica software, simulation optimization methods and methods based on evolutionary algorithms were elaborated.
Case Study of Expected Loss Failure Mode and Effect Analysis Model Based on Maintenance Data
Authors: Min Seungsik , Jang Hyeonae
Published: August 2021

Failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) is one of the most widely employed pre-evaluation techniques to avoid risks during the product design and manufacturing phases. Risk priority number (RPN), a risk assessment indicator used in FMEA, is widely used in the field due to its simple calculation process, but its limitations as an absolute risk assessment indicator have been pointed out. There has also been criticism of the unstructured nature and lack of systematicity in the FMEA procedures. This work proposes an expected loss-FMEA (EL-FMEA) model that organizes FMEA procedures and structures quantitative risk assessment metrics. In the EL-FMEA model, collectible maintenance record data is defined and based on this, the failure rate of components and systems and downtime and uptime of the system are calculated. Moreover, based on these calculated values, the expected economic loss is computed considering the failure detection time. It also provides an alternative coefficient to evaluate whether or not a detection system is installed to improve the expected loss of failure. Finally, a case study was conducted based on the maintenance record data, and the application procedure of the EL-FMEA model was presented in detail, and the practicality of this model was verified through the results.
Leaf Proteome Response to Drought Stress and Antioxidant Potential in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Rai Gyanendra Kumar , Parveen Abida , Jamwal Gayatri , Basu Umer , Kumar Ranjeet Ranjan , Rai Pradeep K. , Sharma Jag Paul , Alalawy Adel I. , Al-Duais Mohammed A. , Hossain Mohammad Anwar , Habib ur Rahman Muhammad , Raza Ali , Danish Subhan , Sakran Mohamed I.
Published: August 2021

Advances in proteome research have opened the gateway to understanding numerous metabolic pathways and fundamental mechanisms involved in abiotic stress tolerance. In the present study, the antioxidant capacity of four tomato genotypes i.e., Kashi Amrit, Kashi Anupam, EC-317-6-1, and WIR-4360 was determined under drought stress to ascertain the scavenging potential for reactive oxygen species (ROS). A significant increase in the superoxide dismutase (SOD), Ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and catalase (CAT) activities in all the four genotypes under drought stress was observed, which seemed to be associated with a protective role against ROS (p < 0.001). Based on the antioxidant enzyme activities, a proteomic approach was applied to study differential protein expression in two selected genotypes from different species i.e., EC-317-6-1 (Solanum pimpinellifolium) and Kashi Amrit (Solanum lycopersicum) grown under irrigated, drought, and re-watering conditions. To reveal the protein network regulated under these conditions, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis was employed to identify and quantify the number of proteins in drought-sensitive (Kashi Amrit) and tolerant (EC-317-6-1) genotypes. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight analysis (MALDI-TOF) revealed a total of 453 spots after fine-tuning factors i.e., smoothness, saliency, and minimum area that responded to drought. Out of 453 total spots, 93 spots were identified in Kashi Amrit and 154 in EC-317-6-1 under irrigated conditions, whereas 4 spots were identified in Kashi Amrit and 77 spots in EC-317-6-1 under drought conditions. Furthermore, differentially expressed proteins were distinguished according to the fold change of their expression. Information provided in this report will be useful for the selection of proteins or genes in analyzing or improving drought tolerance in tomato cultivars. These findings may assist in the construction of a complete proteome database encompassing various divergent species which could be a valuable source for the improvement of crops under drought-stress conditions in the future.
A Switched Algorithm for Adaptive Feedback Cancellation Using Pre-Filters in Hearing Aids
Authors: Tran Linh Thi Thuc , Nordholm Sven Erik
Published: August 2021

Acoustic coupling between microphone and loudspeaker is a significant problem in open-fit digital hearing aids. An open-fit compared to a close-fit hearing aid significantly lowers the signal quality and limits the achievable maximum stable gain. Adaptive feedback cancellation (AFC) enables an efficient approach to reduce the impact of acoustic coupling. However, without careful consideration, it can also introduce bias in estimating the feedback path due to the high correlation between the loudspeaker signal and the incoming signal, especially when the incoming signal is spectrally coloured, e.g., speech and music. The prediction error method (PEM) is well known for reducing this bias. The presented study aims to propose a switched PEM with soft-clipping (swPEMSC) that allows for further improvement in convergence/tracking rates, resulting in a better ability to recover from unstable/howling status. This swPEMSC employs a new update rule inspired by a soft-clipping based stability detector (SCSD). It allows to pick up either the PEMSC-NLMS or PEMSC-APA depending on the magnitude of the effective feedback signal; howling corresponds to a large feedback signal. The PEMSC-NLMS with a small step-size ensures a low steady-state error, but slow convergence/tracking rates, while PEMSC-APA with a large step-size allows for fast convergence/tracking rates, but a high steady-state error. By combining those approaches, the proposed approach can take advantage of good characteristics from both. Experimental results using different types of incoming signals and an abrupt change of feedback paths show that the swPEMSC can shorten unstable periods (howling) by improving the convergence and tracking rates while retaining a low steady-state error and good signal quality.
Biological Treatments in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Complex Mix of Mechanisms and Actions
Authors: Moreno Lorena Ortega , Fernández-Tomé Samuel , Abalo Raquel
Published: August 2021

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic disease that requires lifelong medication and whose incidence is increasing over the world. There is currently no cure for IBD, and the current therapeutic objective is to control the inflammatory process. Approximately one third of treated patients do not respond to treatment and refractoriness to treatment is common. Therefore, pharmacological treatments, such as monoclonal antibodies, are urgently needed, and new treatment guidelines are regularly published. Due to the extremely important current role of biologics in the therapy of IBD, herein we have briefly reviewed the main biological treatments currently available. In addition, we have focused on the mechanisms of action of the most relevant groups of biological agents in IBD therapy, which are not completely clear but are undoubtfully important for understanding both their therapeutic efficacy and the adverse side effects they may have. Further studies are necessary to better understand the action mechanism of these drugs, which will in turn help us to understand how to improve their efficacy and safety. These studies will hopefully pave the path for a personalized medicine.
Brain Image Segmentation in Recent Years: A Narrative Review
Authors: Fawzi Ali , Achuthan Anusha , Belaton Bahari
Published: August 2021

Brain image segmentation is one of the most time-consuming and challenging procedures in a clinical environment. Recently, a drastic increase in the number of brain disorders has been noted. This has indirectly led to an increased demand for automated brain segmentation solutions to assist medical experts in early diagnosis and treatment interventions. This paper aims to present a critical review of the recent trend in segmentation and classification methods for brain magnetic resonance images. Various segmentation methods ranging from simple intensity-based to high-level segmentation approaches such as machine learning, metaheuristic, deep learning, and hybridization are included in the present review. Common issues, advantages, and disadvantages of brain image segmentation methods are also discussed to provide a better understanding of the strengths and limitations of existing methods. From this review, it is found that deep learning-based and hybrid-based metaheuristic approaches are more efficient for the reliable segmentation of brain tumors. However, these methods fall behind in terms of computation and memory complexity.
Surgical Treatment of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Satoi Sohei
Published: August 2021

This special issue, “Surgical Treatment of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma” contains 13 articles (five original articles, five reviews, and three systematic reviews/meta-analyses) authored by international leaders and surgeons who treat patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) [...]
Salvage Radioligand Therapy with Repeated Cycles of 177Lu-PSMA-617 in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer with Diffuse Bone Marrow Involvement
Authors: Groener Daniel , Baumgarten Justus , Haefele Sebastian , Happel Christian , Klimek Konrad , Mader Nicolai , Nguyen Ngoc Christina , Tselis Nikolaos , Chun Felix K. H. , Grünwald Frank , Sabet Amir
Published: August 2021

Advanced stage metastatic prostate cancer with extensive bone marrow involvement is associated with a high risk of therapy-induced myelotoxicity and unfavorable outcomes. The role of salvage radioligand therapy (RLT) with 177Lu-PSMA-617 in this subset of patients remains to be further elucidated. Forty-five patients with progressive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and diffuse bone marrow involvement were treated with repeated cycles of RLT after having exhausted standard treatment options. A mean treatment activity of 7.4 ± 1.4 GBq 177Lu-PSMA-617 was administered in a median of four treatment cycles (IQR 2-6) and the mean cumulative activity was 32.6 ± 20.1 GBq. After two RLT cycles, ≥50% PSA decline was observed in 25/45 (56%) patients and imaging-based partial remission (PR) was observed in 18/45 (40%) patients. Median imaging-based progression-free survival (PFS) was 6.4 mo (95% CI, 3.0–9.8) and the median overall survival (OS) was 10.2 months (95% CI, 7.2–12.8). The biochemical response translated into a significantly prolonged PFS (12.9 vs. 2.8 mo, p < 0.001) and OS (13.5 vs. 6.7 mo, p < 0.001). Patients with PR on interim imaging after two cycles had a longer median OS compared to patients with stable or progressive disease (15.5 vs. 7.1 mo, p < 0.001). Previous taxane-based chemotherapy (HR 3.21, 95%CI 1.18–8.70, p = 0.02) and baseline LDH levels (HR 1.001, 95%CI 1.000–1.001, p = 0.04) were inversely associated with OS on a Cox-regression analysis. Grade ≥ 3 hematological decline was observed after 22/201 (11%) cycles with anemia, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia in 15/45 (33%), 6/45 (13%) and 8/45 (18%) patients, respectively. Cumulative treatment activity and absorbed whole-body dose were not correlated with new onset grade ≥ 3 hematotoxicity (p = 0.91, p = 0.69). No event of grade ≥ 3 chronic kidney disease was observed during RLT or the follow-up. Last line RLT with 177Lu-PSMA-617 in mCRPC patients with diffuse bone marrow involvement may thus contribute to prolonged disease control at an acceptable safety profile.
Evidence for the Need to Evaluate More Than One Source of Extracellular Vesicles, Rather Than Single or Pooled Samples Only, When Comparing Extracellular Vesicles Separation Methods
Authors: Martinez-Pacheco Sarai , O’Driscoll Lorraine
Published: August 2021

To study and exploit extracellular vesicles (EVs) for clinical benefit as biomarkers, therapeutics, or drug delivery vehicles in diseases such as cancer, typically we need to separate them from the biofluid into which they have been released by their cells of origin. For cultured cells, this fluid is conditioned medium (CM). Previous studies comparing EV separation approaches have typically focused on CM from one cell line or pooled samples of other biofluids. We hypothesize that this is inadequate and that extrapolating from a single source of EVs may not be informative. Thus, in our study of methods not previous compared (i.e., the original differential ultracentrifugation (dUC) method and a PEG followed by ultracentrifugation (PEG + UC) method), we analyzed CM from three different HER2-positive breast cancer cell lines (SKBR3, EFM192A, HCC1954) that grow in the same culture medium type. CM from each was collected and equally divided between both protocols. The resulting isolates were compared on seven characteristics/parameters including particle size, concentration, structure/morphology, protein content, purity, detection of five EV markers, and presence of HER2. Both dUC and PEG + UC generated reproducible data for any given breast cancer cell lines’ CM. However, the seven characteristics of the EV isolates were cell line- and method-dependent. This suggests the need to include more than one EV source, rather than a single or pooled sample, when selecting an EV separation method to be advanced for either research or clinical purposes.
Stratified Mucin-Producing Intraepithelial Lesion (SMILE) of the Uterine Cervix: High-Risk HPV Genotype Predominance and p40 Immunophenotype
Authors: Strojan Fležar Margareta , Nedelko Neža , Poljak Mario , Oštrbenk Valenčak Anja , Gutnik Helena
Published: August 2021

Stratified mucin-producing intraepithelial lesion (SMILE) is a rare high-grade cervical precancerous lesion designated a variant of adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS) in the WHO classification. We aimed to determine HPV genotypes, immunohistochemical phenotype and mucin presence in SMILE. Between 2010 and 2018, SMILE was diagnosed in 34 out of 6958 (0.5%) cervical biopsies, in 23 patients. Twenty-six tissue samples from twenty-one patients were available for further analysis, including 13 with SMILE alone, 12 with SIL and/or AIS and one with HSIL, AIS and endocervical adenocarcinoma. HPV genotyping was performed using the Seegene Anyplex II HPV 28 assay. Of the 26 samples, a single HPV genotype was identified in the majority of cases (n = 22), including 12/13 SMILEs associated with SIL/AIS. All but one were high-risk HPV genotypes (23/24; 96.8%). We identified seven different HPV genotypes, the most common being HPV16 (n = 10; 43.5%), HPV18 (n = 8, 34.8%) and HPV 31 (n = 5, 21.7%). All SMILEs showed a strong positive reaction to p16, CK7, CK19 and high Ki67 expression comparable to adjacent HSIL and/or AIS if present. SMILE showed variable mucin presence and p40-positive squamous differentiation suggesting phenotypic diversity in cervical precancerous lesions infected by single HPV.
The Transcription Factor NF-κB in Stem Cells and Development
Authors: Kaltschmidt Christian , Greiner Johannes F. W. , Kaltschmidt Barbara
Published: August 2021

NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa B) belongs to a family of transcription factors known to regulate a broad range of processes such as immune cell function, proliferation and cancer, neuroprotection, and long-term memory. Upcoming fields of NF-κB research include its role in stem cells and developmental processes. In the present review, we discuss one role of NF-κB in development in Drosophila, Xenopus, mice, and humans in accordance with the concept of evo-devo (evolutionary developmental biology). REL domain-containing proteins of the NF-κB family are evolutionarily conserved among these species. In addition, we summarize cellular phenotypes such as defective B- and T-cell compartments related to genetic NF-κB defects detected among different species. While NF-κB proteins are present in nearly all differentiated cell types, mouse and human embryonic stem cells do not contain NF-κB proteins, potentially due to miRNA-dependent inhibition. However, the mesodermal and neuroectodermal differentiation of mouse and human embryonic stem cells is hampered upon the repression of NF-κB. We further discuss NF-κB as a crucial regulator of differentiation in adult stem cells such as neural crest-derived and mesenchymal stem cells. In particular, c-REL seems to be important for neuronal differentiation and the neuroprotection of human adult stem cells, while RELA plays a crucial role in osteogenic and mesodermal differentiation.
Effects of Mild Excitotoxic Stimulus on Mitochondria Ca2+ Handling in Hippocampal Cultures of a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Rigotto Giulia , Zentilin Lorena , Pozzan Tullio , Basso Emy
Published: August 2021

In Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the molecular mechanisms involved in the neurodegeneration are still incompletely defined, though this aspect is crucial for a better understanding of the malady and for devising effective therapies. Mitochondrial dysfunctions and altered Ca2+ signaling have long been implicated in AD, though it is debated whether these events occur early in the course of the pathology, or whether they develop at late stages of the disease and represent consequences of different alterations. Mitochondria are central to many aspects of cellular metabolism providing energy, lipids, reactive oxygen species, signaling molecules for cellular quality control, and actively shaping intracellular Ca2+ signaling, modulating the intensity and duration of the signal itself. Abnormalities in the ability of mitochondria to take up and subsequently release Ca2+ could lead to changes in the metabolism of the organelle, and of the cell as a whole, that eventually result in cell death. We sought to investigate the role of mitochondria and Ca2+ signaling in a model of Familial Alzheimer’s disease and found early alterations in mitochondria physiology under stressful condition, namely, reduced maximal respiration, decreased ability to sustain membrane potential, and a slower return to basal matrix Ca2+ levels after a mild excitotoxic stimulus. Treatment with an inhibitor of the permeability transition pore attenuated some of these mitochondrial disfunctions and may represent a promising tool to ameliorate mitochondria and cellular functioning in AD and prevent or slow down cell loss in the disease.
Secretory Vesicles Are the Principal Means of SARS-CoV-2 Egress
Authors: Eymieux Sébastien , Uzbekov Rustem , Rouillé Yves , Blanchard Emmanuelle , Hourioux Christophe , Dubuisson Jean , Belouzard Sandrine , Roingeard Philippe
Published: August 2021

The mechanisms of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) egress, similar to those of other coronaviruses, remain poorly understood. The virus buds in intracellular compartments and is therefore thought to be released by the biosynthetic secretory pathway. However, several studies have recently challenged this hypothesis. It has been suggested that coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, use lysosomes for egress. In addition, a focused ion-beam scanning electron microscope (FIB/SEM) study suggested the existence of exit tunnels linking cellular compartments rich in viral particles to the extracellular space resembling those observed for the human immunodeficiency (HIV) in macrophages. Here, we analysed serial sections of Vero cells infected with SARS-CoV-2 by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We found that SARS-CoV-2 was more likely to exit the cell in small secretory vesicles. Virus trafficking within the cells involves small vesicles, with each generally containing a single virus particle. These vesicles then fuse with the plasma membrane to release the virus into the extracellular space. This work sheds new light on the late stages of the SARS-CoV-2 infectious cycle of potential value for guiding the development of new antiviral strategies.
Geodatabase of Publicly Available Information about Czech Municipalities’ Local Administration
Authors: Pászto Vít , Pánek Jiří , Burian Jaroslav
Published: August 2021

In this data description, we introduce a unique (geo)dataset with publicly available information about the municipalities focused on (geo)participatory aspects of local administration. The dataset comprises 6258 Czech municipalities linked with their respective administrative boundaries. In total, 55 attributes were prepared for each municipality. We also describe the process of data collection, processing, verification, and publication as open data. The uniqueness of the dataset is that such a complex dataset regarding geographical coverage with a high level of detail (municipalities) has never been collected in Czechia before. Besides, it could be applied in various research agendas in public participation and local administration and used thematically using selected indicators from various participation domains. The dataset is available freely in the Esri geodatabase, geospatial services using API (REST, GeoJSON), and other common non-spatial formats (MS Excel and CSV).
Lung Ultrasound-Guided Fluid Management versus Standard Care in Surgical ICU Patients: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Rusu Daniel-Mihai , Grigoraș Ioana , Blaj Mihaela , Siriopol Ianis , Ciumanghel Adi-Ionut , Sandu Gigel , Onofriescu Mihai , Lungu Olguta , Covic Adrian Constantin
Published: August 2021

The value of lung ultrasound (LU) in assessing extravascular lung water (EVLW) was demonstrated by comparing LU with gold-standard methods for EVLW assessment. However, few studies have analysed the value of B-Line score (BLS) in guiding fluid management during critical illness. The purpose of this trial was to evaluate if a BLS-guided fluid management strategy could improve fluid balance and short-term mortality in surgical intensive care unit (ICU) patients. We conducted a randomised, controlled trial within the ICUs of two university hospitals. Critically ill patients were randomised upon ICU admission in a 1:1 ratio to BLS-guided fluid management (active group) or standard care (control group). In the active group, BLS was monitored daily until ICU discharge or day 28 (whichever came first). On the basis of BLS, different targets for daily fluid balance were set with the aim of avoiding or correcting moderate/severe EVLW increase. The primary outcome was 28-day mortality. Over 24 months, 166 ICU patients were enrolled in the trial and included in the final analysis. Trial results showed that daily BLS monitoring did not lead to a different cumulative fluid balance in surgical ICU patients as compared to standard care. Consecutively, no difference in 28-day mortality between groups was found (10.5% vs. 15.6%, p = 0.34). However, at least 400 patients would have been necessary for conclusive results.
A Study of the Business Model Development of Human Centric Lighting: Based on Eco-Science Methodology
Authors: Kwon Hyeog-In , Baek Bo-Hyun , Jeon Yong-Su
Published: August 2021

Human centric lighting (HLC) is a promising market for innovations in the lighting market, but there is a lack of research on sustainable business models. Therefore, this study proposes a service, ecosystem, business model, and platform to innovate the HLC industry using eco-science methodologies suitable for manufacturing servitization. The study’s findings show that the introduction of a platform-based B2B smart space service can have an impact on the spread of HCL. Accordingly, this study derives a business model and billing strategy that industry stakeholders involved in the smart space can cooperate with. Further, the study proposes a platform design to realize the proposed business model and verifies a service prototype to analyze the completeness of the research results and their economic ripple effects. As for the implications, this study presents an integrated perspective business model to revitalize the HCL market based on a systematic methodology from the convergence studies perspective. Additionally, there are academic implications that, instead of just proposing the research results, objectively evaluate and verify the completeness of the results. The results of this study suggest a future-oriented direction for the field of HCL.
Airflow Analysis of the Haida Plank House, a Breathing Envelope
Authors: Lezcano Roberto Alonso González , Burgos María Jesús Montero
Published: August 2021

The Haida plank house is one of the most important models built by the native American Indians. Built on the southwest coast of Canada, it adapts the tradition of the ancient pit houses to the requirements of the humid and cold climate characteristic of the Haida Gwaii Islands. This construction is composed by two main pieces: the central pit covered by a wooden envelope. Both protect its dwellers and their hearths. The ventilation system is based on two solutions: the gaps between the wall planks and a smoke hole that can be opened or closed in the roof at will. The aim of the present research is to analyze the way these two elements arrange the indoor airflow in order to ensure the comfortability of the house. Four cases have been proposed, according to four different dimensions for the gaps: 1, 2, 3 and 4 cm. Each case has been doubled in order to determine how the state of the smoke hole affected the corresponding results. This way, it has been concluded that if the gaps’ width becomes higher than 4 cm, the airflow velocity comfort level would be exceeded. It is been possible to observe how the state of the smoke hole influences the way the air moves around the dwelling.
Thermal Absorption Performance Evaluation of Water-Based Nanofluids (CNTs, Cu, and Al2O3) for Solar Thermal Harvesting
Authors: Lee Youngho , Jeong Hyomin , Sung Yonmo
Published: August 2021

For solar thermal harvesting, an experimental study was performed on the thermal absorption performance of water-based carbon nanotubes (CNTs), Cu, and Al2O3 nanofluids using a halogen lamp-based thermal radiation system. The effect of nanoparticle concentrations (0.01 wt.%, 0.1 wt.%, and 1 wt.%) on the nanofluid dispersion, stability, and thermal absorption characteristics was investigated, and a comparative analysis was performed for each type of nanofluid. All types of nanofluids increased the absorbance and electrical conductivity with increasing nanoparticle concentration, which contributed to improving the thermal absorption performance of nanofluids. The results showed that the thermal absorption performance was high in the order of carbon-based nanofluids (CNTs), metal-based nanofluids (Cu), and oxide-based nanofluids (Al2O3). In CNTs nanofluids, the thermal absorption performance expressed the time reduction rate, which was 12.8%, 16.3%, and 16.4% at 0.01 wt.%, 0.1 wt.%, and 1 wt.% test cases, respectively. Therefore, the 0.1 wt.%-CNTs nanofluid is more economical and appropriate. However, in Al2O3 nanofluids, the time reduction rate of the 1 wt.% nanofluid was significantly higher than that of the 0.01 wt.% and 0.1 wt.% nanofluids. In Cu nanofluids, unlike CNTs and Al2O3 nanofluids, the time reduction rate constantly increased as the nanoparticle concentration increased.
A New Zealand Perspective on Hydrogen as an Export Commodity: Timing of Market Development and an Energy Assessment of Hydrogen Carriers
Authors: Hinkley James T.
Published: August 2021

Hydrogen is currently receiving significant attention and investment as a key enabler of defossilised global energy systems. Many believe this will eventually result in the international trade of hydrogen as a commodity from countries with significant renewable energy resources, for example New Zealand and Australia, to net energy importing countries including Japan and Korea. Japan has, since 2014, been actively exploring the components of the necessary supply chains, including the assessment of different hydrogen carriers. Public/private partnerships have invested in demonstration projects to assess the comparative merits of liquid hydrogen, ammonia, and organic carriers. On the supply side, significant projects have been proposed in Australia while the impending closure of New Zealand’s Tiwai Point aluminium smelter at the end of 2024 may provide an opportunity for green hydrogen production. However, it is also evident that the transition to a hydrogen economy will take some years and confidence around the timing of supply and demand capacity is essential for new energy infrastructure investment. This paper reviews the expected development of an export market to Japan and concludes that large scale imports are unlikely before the late 2020s. Comparative evaluation of the energy efficiency of various hydrogen carriers concludes that it is too early to call a winner, but that ammonia has key advantages as a fungible commodity today, while liquid hydrogen has the potential to be a more efficient energy carrier. Ultimately it will be the delivered cost of hydrogen that will determine which carriers are used, and while energy efficiency is a key metric, there are other considerations such as infrastructure availability, and capital and operating costs.
A Stake-Out Prototype System Based on GNSS-RTK Technology for Implementing Accurate Vehicle Reliability and Performance Tests
Authors: Visconti Paolo , Iaia Francesco , De Fazio Roberto , Giannoccaro Nicola Ivan
Published: August 2021

There are many car tests regulated by European and international standards and carried out on tracks to assess vehicle performance. The test preparation phase usually consists of placing road cones on the track with a specific configuration defined by the considered standard; this phase is performed by human operators using imprecise and slow methods, mainly due to the large required distances. In this paper, a new geolocation stake-out system based on GNSS RTK technology was realized and tested, supported by a Matlab-based software application to allow the user to quickly and precisely locate the on-track points on which to position the road cones. The realized stake-out system, innovative and very simple to use, produced negligible average errors (i.e., 2.4–2.9 cm) on the distance between the staked-out points according to the reference standards (distance percentage error 0.29–0.47%). Furthermore, the measured average angular error was also found to be very low, in the range 0.04–0.18°. Finally, ISO 3888-1 and ISO 3888-2 test configurations were reproduced on the proving ground of the Porsche Technical Center by utilizing the realized stake-out system to perform a double lane-change maneuver on car prototypes.
Flowing Material Balance and Rate-Transient Analysis of Horizontal Wells in Under-Saturated Coal Seam Gas Reservoirs: A Case Study from the Qinshui Basin, China
Authors: Zhu Suyang , Salmachi Alireza
Published: August 2021

Two phase flow and horizontal well completion pose additional challenges for rate-transient analysis (RTA) techniques in under-saturated coal seam gas (CSG) reservoirs. To better obtain reservoir parameters, a practical workflow for the two phase RTA technique is presented to extract reservoir information by the analysis of production data of a horizontal well in an under-saturated CSG reservoir. This workflow includes a flowing material balance (FMB) technique and an improved form of two phase (water + gas) RTA. At production stage of a horizontal well in under-saturated CSG reservoirs, a FMB technique was developed to extract original water in-place (OWIP) and horizontal permeability. This FMB technique involves the application of an appropriate productivity equation representing the relative position of the horizontal well in the drainage area. Then, two phase (water + gas) RTA of a horizontal well was also investigated by introducing the concept of the area of influence (AI), which enables the calculation of the water saturation during the transient formation linear flow. Finally, simulation and field examples are presented to validate and demonstrate the application of the proposed techniques. Simulation results indicate that the proposed FMB technique accurately predicts OWIP and coal permeability when an appropriate productivity equation is selected. The field application of the proposed methods is demonstrated by analysis of production data of a horizontal CSG well in the Qinshui Basin, China.
Commercial Logging of Timber Species Enhances Amazon (Brazil) Nut Populations: Insights from Bolivian Managed Forests
Authors: Soriano Marlene , Zuidema Pieter A. , Barber Cristina , Mohren Frits , Ascarrunz Nataly , Licona Juan Carlos , Peña-Claros Marielos
Published: August 2021

A typical case of multiple-use forest management (MFM) in Southwestern Amazon is the commercial harvesting of Amazon or Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa) seeds and of timber of other tree species. Although the Amazon nut is the most important non-timber forest product (NTFP) in the Amazon basin, the species is under serious threat due to deforestation and may also be affected by overharvesting. However, selective logging of other tree species coexisting with Bertholletia may positively affect Bertholletia populations, thus enabling a special case for MFM. For this research, we investigated the impact of the intensity of Amazon nut harvesting and timber logging on Bertholletia populations in the Bolivian Amazon. We used demographic data from 72 two-hectare transects located within 24 community-based household forests varying in the intensity of nut collection (0–100%) and timber logging (0–15% of logging-disturbed forest area). Simulated Bertholletia population size increased with logging intensity but decreased with Amazon nut harvesting intensity. Bertholletia populations were projected to grow at the average MFM harvesting scenario tested: 57.4% of nut harvesting, 5.3% of logging-disturbed area (λ100 = 1.011). Our simulations also revealed that up to 89% of Amazon nut seeds can be harvested while sustaining Bertholletia populations, under 15% of logging-disturbed area, and applying liana cutting. Modest levels of timber logging and application of liana cutting may compensate for the negative effect of Amazon nut collection on Bertholletia populations for the next century. Our study demonstrates that Amazon nut and timber production could be combined in a sustainable MFM scheme, thus increasing the economic value of managed tropical forests and its promotion to reduce the increasing pressure by deforestation.
Warming Increases the Carbon Sequestration Capacity of Picea schrenkiana in the Tianshan Mountains, China
Authors: Zhou Honghua , Chen Yaning , Zhu Chenggang , Chen Yapeng , Yang Yuhai , Li Weihong , Chen Shifeng
Published: August 2021

As an essential part of terrestrial ecosystems, convenient and accurate reconstruction of the past carbon sequestration capacity of forests is critical to assess future trends of aboveground carbon storage and ecosystem carbon cycles. In addition, the relationship between climate change and carbon sequestration of forests has been vigorously debated. In this study, dynamic change of carbon sequestration capacity in aboveground biomass of Picea schrenkiana (hereinafter abbreviated as P. schrenkiana) in the Tianshan Mountains, northwestern China, from 1850–2017, were reconstructed using dendrochronology. The main climate drivers that affected carbon sequestration capacity in aboveground biomass of P. schrenkiana were then investigated. The results showed that: (1) tree-ring width and diameter at breast height (DBH) of P. schrenkiana obtained from different altitudes and ages were an effective and convenient estimation index for reconstructing the carbon sequestration capacity of P. schrenkiana. The carbon storage of P. schrenkiana forest in 2016 in the Tianshan Mountains was 50.08 Tg C calculated using tree-ring width and DBH, which was very close to the value determined by direct field investigation data. (2) The annual carbon sequestration potential capacity of P. schrenkiana exhibited an increasing trend from 1850–2017. Temperature, especially minimum temperature, constituted the key climatic driver resulting in increased carbon sequestration capacity. The contribution rates of temperature and minimum temperature to the change of P. schrenkiana carbon sequestration capacity was 75% and 44%, respectively. (3) The significant increase of winter temperature and minimum temperature led to warming in the Tianshan Mountains, resulting in a significant increase in carbon sequestration capacity of P. schrenkiana. The results indicate that, with the continuous increase of winter temperature and minimum temperature, carbon sequestration of P. schrenkiana in the Tianshan Mountains is predicted to increase markedly in the future. The findings of this study provide a useful basis to evaluate future aboveground carbon storage and carbon cycles in mountain systems possessed similar characteristics of the Tianshan Mountains.