bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Activity and Substrate Specificity by Site‐Directed Mutagenesis for the P450 119 Peroxygenase Catalyzed Sulfoxidation of Thioanisole
Authors: Wei Xiaoyao , Zhang Chun , Gao Xiaowei , Gao Yanping , Yang Ya , Guo Kai , Du Xi , Pu Lin , Wang Qin
Published: July 2019

P450 119 peroxygenase was found to catalyze the sulfoxidation of thioanisole and the sulfonation of sulfoxide in the presence of tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) for the first time with turnover rates of 1549 min−1 and 196 min−1 respectively. Several mutants were designed to improve the peroxygenation activity and thioanisole specificity by site‐directed mutagenesis. The F153G/T213G mutant gave an increase of sulfoxide yield and a decrease of sulfone yield. Moreover the S148P/I161T/K199E/T214V mutant and the K199E mutant with acidic Glu residue contributed to improving the product ratio of sulfoxide to sulfone. Addition of short‐alkyl‐chain organic acids to the P450 119 peroxygenase‐catalyzed sulfur oxidation of thioanisole was investigated. Octanoic acid was found to induce a preferred sulfoxidation of thioanisole catalyzed by the F153G/T213G mutant to give approximately 2.4‐fold increase in turnover rate with a kcat value of 3687 min−1 relative to that of the wild‐type, and by the F153G mutant to give the R‐sulfoxide up to 30 % ee. The experimental control and the proposed mechanism for the P450 119 peroxygenase‐catalyzed sulfoxidation of thioanisole in the presence of octanoic acid suggested that octanoic acid could partially occupy the substrate pocket; meanwhile the F153G mutation could enhance the substrate specificity, which could lead to efficiently regulate the spatial orientation of thioanisole and facilitate the formation of Compound I. This is the most effective catalytic system for the P450 119 peroxygenase‐catalyzed sulfoxidation of thioanisole.
Blinatumomab as a bridge to further therapy in cases of overwhelming toxicity in pediatric B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Report from the Israeli Study Group of Childhood Leukemia
Authors: Elitzur Sarah , Arad‐Cohen Nira , Barzilai‐Birenboim Shlomit , Ben‐Harush Miriam , Bielorai Bella , Elhasid Ronit , Feuerstein Tamar , Gilad Gil , Gural Alexander , Kharit Mira , Litichever Naomi , Nirel Ronit , Weinreb Sigal , Wolach Ofir , Toren Amos , Izraeli Shai , Jacoby Elad
Published: July 2019

Tremendous progress in the therapy of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has been achieved through combination cytotoxic chemotherapy, leading to high cure rates, at the cost of significant life‐threatening toxicity. The bispecific T‐cell engager blinatumomab, recently approved for relapsed/refractory ALL, has a unique nonmyelotoxic toxicity profile. As blinatumomab causes B‐cell depletion, the safety of its use during severe chemotherapy‐induced toxicity is unclear. We report 11 pediatric patients with ALL, treated with blinatumomab following overwhelming chemotherapy‐associated toxicity, with recovery of all patients and successful bridging to further antileukemia therapy. Blinatumomab can be considered for rare patients who cannot tolerate cytotoxic therapy.
Children treated for medulloblastoma and supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumor in Norway from 1974 through 2013: Unexplainable regional differences in survival
Authors: Stensvold Einar , Myklebust Tor Åge , Cappelen Johan , Due‐Tønnessen Bernt J. , Due‐Tønnessen Paulina , Kepka Aleksandra , Johannesen Tom Børge , Krossnes Bård , Lundar Tryggve , Maric Snezana , Miletic Hrvoje , Moholdt Viggo , Myrmel Kristin Smistad , Nordberg Terje , Rydland Jana , Stokland Tore , Solem Kristin , Solheim Ole , Torsvik Ingrid , Wikran Gry C. , Zeller Bernward , Wesenberg Finn , Bechensteen Anne Grete , Brandal Petter
Published: July 2019

Background

A previous study based on Norwegian Cancer Registry data suggested regional differences in overall survival (OS) after treatment for medulloblastoma (MB) and supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumor (CNS‐PNET) in Norway. The purpose of the present study was to confirm in an extended cohort whether there were regional differences in outcome or not, and if so try to identify possible explanations.

Material and methods

Data from patients aged 0–20 years diagnosed with and treated for MB/CNS‐PNET at all four university hospitals in Norway from 1974 to 2013 were collected and compared.

Results

Of 266 identified patients, 251 fulfilled inclusion criteria. MB was diagnosed in 200 and CNS‐PNET in 51 patients. Five‐year OS and event‐free survival (EFS) were 59% and 52%, respectively. There was a significant difference in five‐year OS and EFS between MB and CNS‐PNET patients; 62% versus 47% (P =  0.007) and 57% versus 35% (P < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, two factors were found to significantly contribute to improved five‐year OS and EFS, whereas one factor contributed to improved five‐year OS only. Gross total resection (GTR) versus non‐GTR (hazard ratio [HR] 0.53, P =  0.003; HR 0.46, P < 0.001) and cerebrospinal irradiation (CSI) versus non‐CSI (HR 0.24, P < 0.001; HR 0.28, P < 0.001) for both, and treatment outside Oslo University Hospital for OS only (HR 0.64, P =  0.048).

Conclusion

Survival was comparable with data from other population‐based studies, and the importance of GTR and CSI was confirmed. The cause for regional survival differences could not be identified.
Restoring meaning in life by meaning‐focused coping: The role of self‐distancing
Authors: Wang Yu , Lippke Sonia , Miao Miao , Gan Yiqun
Published: July 2019

Meaning‐focused coping is an important coping strategy in the face of stressful life events. The “construal level theory” and recent research suggest that reflecting on a stressful situation from a self‐distanced stance (temporal or spatial) allows individuals to find meaning in negative life events; however, its long‐term effects have not yet been explored. The present research had two main goals: (1) to determine whether distanced meaning making enhances meaning in life and (2) to explore the underlying emotional mechanism of this effect. We hypothesized that positive affect (relative to negative affect) may play a more important role in the relationship between self‐distanced meaning making and meaning in life. A total of 136 university students were recruited as participants in two studies. The participants were prospectively instructed to make meaning of a highly stressful event. They were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: (a) self‐immersed, (b) temporally distanced, or (c) spatially distanced. The findings indicate that both the temporally and spatially distanced perspectives in the meaning‐making process can enhance meaning in life and that they do so by promoting positive affect. Implications for future research on meaning‐focused coping and self‐distancing are discussed.
Synthesis of a novel copolymer using glycogen and poly(lactide) as a carrier of dual drugs—ornidazole and ofloxacin
Authors: Patra Priyapratim , Soni Saundray Raj , Seesala Venkata Sundeep , Dhara Santanu , Ghosh Animesh , Pal Sagar
Published: July 2019

Biodegradability and biocompatibility are two crucial prerequisites for a promising therapeutic vehicle. Herein, a novel biocompatible copolymer has been synthesized using glycogen and polylactide (PLA). Glycogen, a naturally occurring biopolymer has been functionalized by methacrylation. On the other hand, lactide has been polymerized through ring opening polymerization (ROP), initiated by hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and catalyzed by tin (II) 2‐ethyl hexanoate. Finally, the synthesized two substrates (i.e., glycogen methacrylate and PLA‐HEMA) are covalently connected by free‐radical polymerization, initiated by AIBN. The structure of the developed copolymer has been confirmed using 1H and 13C NMR spectral analyses. The gel characteristics have been evaluated by rheological studies, while the morphological assessment has been investigated by FESEM analysis. In vitro cytocompatibility study reveals that the hydrogel (Gly‐co‐PLA) is biocompatible. The in vitro and in vivo release studies demonstrate the excellent pH‐sensitive control release profile of dual drugs: ornidazole and ofloxacin. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1697–1703
Fertility treatments and the risk of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea in the offspring—Results from a population‐based cohort study
Authors: Imterat Majdi , Wainstock Tamar , Sheiner Eyal , Landau Daniella , Walfisch Asnat , Harlev Avi
Published: July 2019

Objective

While the impact of fertility treatments on the perinatal outcome is well established, the long‐term effects on offspring are yet to be determined. The current study aimed to investigate the risk of long‐term obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among children born following in vitro fertilization (IVF) and ovulation induction (OI) as compared with spontaneously conceived pregnancies.

Study design

A retrospective population‐based cohort study was performed. Exposure was defined as delivery following pregnancies conceived by IVF or OI. Incidence of OSA related hospitalizations of the offspring, up to the age of 18 years, was evaluated. A Kaplan‐Meier survival curve and multivariable Cox regression models were used to assess the association.

Results

During the study period, 242 187 singleton deliveries met the inclusion criteria; 1.1% were conceived following IVF (n = 2603), and 0.7% following OI (n = 1721). Offspring hospitalization rates, involving OSA (n = 1607), were higher among children conceived following IVF and OI pregnancies as compared with the rate in children conceived spontaneously (1.4% vs 1.2% vs 0.7%, respectively; P < .001). The Kaplan‐Meier survival curve demonstrated a significantly higher cumulative incidence of OSA related hospitalizations following IVF and OI (log‐rank P < .001). Using multiple Cox regression models, controlled for gestational age, maternal age, maternal smoking, maternal obesity, birthweight, offspring gender and obesity, IVF as well as OI exhibited a significant and independent association with pediatric OSA in all models with adjusted hazard ratios of 2.25, (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.6‐3.1) and 1.63 (95% CI = 1.1‐2.5), respectively.

Conclusion

Both IVF and OI treatments appear to be independently associated with OSA in the offspring.
A biotinylated peptide, BP21, alleviates hypotension in anaphylactic mice
Authors: Sato Akira , Ebina Keiichi
Published: July 2019

Platelet‐activating factor (PAF) is known as an important mediator of anaphylaxis and, therefore, may possibly serve as a direct target for anti‐anaphylactic drugs. We recently reported that a synthetic N‐terminally biotinylated peptide, BP21, alleviates hypothermia and vascular hyperpermeability during anaphylactic reactions in a mouse model of anaphylaxis via the direct binding of a Tyr‐Lys‐Asp‐Gly sequence in the peptide to PAF. In this study, we investigated the effect of BP21 on in vivo anaphylactic hypotension. Results showed that BP21 significantly inhibited anaphylactic hypotension in a dose‐dependent manner, with peak severity being reached within 20 minutes. Adrenaline, which is the recommended first line treatment for anaphylactic patients, did not inhibit anaphylactic hypothermia. The combined administration of BP21 with adrenaline inhibited both hypotension and hypothermia, even at both low doses, more effectively compared with solo administration of BP21 or adrenaline. These results suggested that BP21 could potentially be a novel anti‐anaphylactic agent for targeting PAF in vivo.
Electronic Structure, Elastic and Optical Properties of AEuS2 (A = Na, K, Rb, and Cs) Ternary Sulfides: First‐Principles Study
Authors: Azzouz Lahcene , Halit Mohamed , Sidoumou Mohamed , Charifi Zoulikha , Allal Adel , Bouchenafa Mohamed , Baaziz Hakim
Published: July 2019

The results of first principles calculations of the structural parameters, elastic moduli, electronic structure and optical properties of the ternary rhombohedral layered compounds AEuS2 (A = Na, K, Rb and Cs) are reported. These calculations were performed by employing the Linear Combination of Atomic Orbitals (LCAO) method. The calculated structural parameters using different exchange and correlation approximations are in good agreement with the experimental data, and the best agreement is obtained with the PBE0 functional. The mechanical stability of the AEuS2 compounds is investigated for the first time by calculating the single‐crystal elastic constants Cij using the stress–strain approach; and the macroscopic elastic parameters, such as the bulk modulus β and shear modulus G, were determined by using Voigt–Reuss–Hill approximations (VRH). Electronic properties have been studied through calculation of band structure and density of states. It is shown that these crystals belong to the semiconductors with an indirect band gap. Furthermore, in order to investigate the optical transitions of these compounds, linear optical functions such as the complex dielectric function, optical reflectivity and loss function were computed for an energy range from 0 to 20 eV. The calculated optical spectra show the anisotropic nature of the optical properties of the AEuS2 (A = Na, K, Rb, and Cs) compounds.
Hesperidin improves hepatic steatosis, hepatic enzymes, and metabolic and inflammatory parameters in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind clinical trial
Authors: Cheraghpour Makan , Imani Hossein , Ommi Shahrzad , Alavian Seyed Moayed , Karimi‐Shahrbabak Elahe , Hedayati Mehdi , Yari Zahra , Hekmatdoost Azita
Published: July 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of hesperidin on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) characteristics. In this randomized, double‐blind, controlled clinical trial, 50 NAFLD patients were supplemented with either 1‐g hesperidin capsule or identical placebo capsule for 12 weeks. During the intervention, both groups were advised to follow healthy lifestyle habits including dietary and physical activity recommendations. At the end of the study, hesperidin supplementation, compared with placebo, was associated with a significant reduction in alanine aminotransferase (p = .005), γ‐glutamyltransferase (p = .004), total cholesterol (p = .016), triglyceride (p = .049), hepatic steatosis (p = .041), high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (p = .029), tumor necrosis factor‐α, and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB). In conclusion, our results indicate that hesperidin supplementation accompanied with lifestyle modification is superior to lifestyle modification alone in management of NAFLD at least partially through inhibiting NF‐κB activation and improving lipid profile. Further studies with higher dose of hesperidin are required to find the optimal dose.
A sequential weighted Laplacian‐regularized optimal design for response surface modeling of expensive functions with outliers: An application in linear elastic fracture mechanics
Authors: Martinez Stanford , Alaeddini Adel , Langer Kristina
Published: July 2019

There are several sequential and adaptive strategies designed to reduce the number of experiments in response surface methodology (RSM). However, most of the existing sequential and adaptive methods are sensitive to the existence of possible outliers. In this paper, we propose an active learning methodology based on the fundamental idea of adding a Laplacian penalty to the D‐optimal design and integrate that with robust regression to look for the most informative settings to be measured, while reducing the influence of possible outliers. To leverage the intrinsic geometry of the factor settings in highly nonlinear spaces, we extend the proposed methodology to reproducing Kernel Hilbert space (RKHS). Through an extensive simulation study accompanied by a thorough sensitivity analysis, we show that the proposed framework outperforms traditional RSM designs in the presence of outliers. We also conduct a study utilizing a hierarchical function used in linear elastic fracture mechanics to illustrate practicality of the proposed methodology.
Syncope due to tracheal adenoid cystic carcinoma
Authors: Bots Eva Marianne Theresa , van Wyk Abraham Christoffel , Janson Jacques Teran , Wagenaar Riegardt , Paris Gerald , Koegelenberg Coenraad Frederik Nicolaas
Published: July 2019

We present a case of a 34‐year‐old male who presented with syncope secondary to a large adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the distal trachea. A computed tomography and flexible bronchoscopy showed almost complete occlusion of the distal trachea. Resection with curative intent was performed, but resection margins were unfortunately not clear. The patient was subsequently offered adjuvant radiotherapy. Tracheal tumours comprise a small proportion of respiratory tract neoplasm, accounting for only about 2% of airway malignancies. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common tracheal tumour, followed by ACC. Symptoms are usually attributable to the intraluminal component of the tumour causing an obstruction of the airway, resulting in stridor, dyspnoea, wheezing, haemoptysis, and cough. Syncope as a presenting symptom is exceedingly rare.
Pulmonary nocardiosis caused by Nocardia exalbida mimicking lung cancer
Authors: Miyaoka Chika , Nakamoto Keitaro , Shirai Tatsuya , Miyamoto Maki , Sasaki Yuka , Ohta Ken
Published: July 2019

Nocardiosis is an uncommon infection caused by Nocardia species, but it can often occur in immunocompromised patients. As computed tomography (CT) findings of pulmonary nocardiosis, consolidation, masses, and nodules are often found, but lymph node enlargement is infrequent. Nocardia exalbida was first isolated in 2006, and there are still few reports on this microorganism. We report a case of pulmonary nocardiosis caused by N. exalbida presenting as a mass and lymph node enlargement that mimicked lung cancer. A 76‐year‐old man was referred and admitted to our hospital because of persistent cough, sputum production, and chest discomfort. Chest CT showed a mass in the superior segment of the left upper lobe and mediastinal lymph node enlargement. After we performed bronchoscopies, Nocardia species was isolated in a cultured specimen and identified as N. exalbida. This case required differentiation from lung cancer and was difficult to diagnose.
Stochastic synchronization of delayed multiagent networks with intermittent communications: An impulsive framework
Authors: Ma Tiedong , Cui Bing , Wang Yujuang , Liu Kun
Published: July 2019

This paper investigates the stochastic synchronization problem of delayed multiagent networks with intermittent communications. Two kinds of impulsive effects are taken into account, ie, impulsive controller (positive impulsive effect) and impulsive disturbance (negative impulsive effect). Impulsive controller allows the synchronization to be realized and requires only state information exchange at discrete time instants such that the communication cost of bandwidth is reduced. Meanwhile, impulsive disturbance is inevitable in most of practical systems and therefore is taken into consideration at discrete time instants. Sufficient conditions for synchronization are given in terms of the graph topology, the control coupling gains, and the individual agent dynamics parameters, which indicates that synchronization can be realized if the impulsive effects coefficients and communication rate are suitably selected. Simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed synchronization protocol.
Organic aspirations in South India
Authors: Flachs Andrew , Panuganti Sreenu
Published: July 2019

Organic regulation makes products legible to consumers around the world, adding value to commodities and seeking to counter socioecological injustice through neoliberal logics of consumer choice and market diversification. Despite the regulatory and consumer need for universal signification, organic agriculture varies considerably between regional contexts and even within the same country. Within India, home to more organic producers than any other nation, certified organic cotton agriculture in Telangana and certified organic coffee production in Andhra Pradesh highlight how organic agriculture provides distinct, but parallel, ways for farmers and intermediaries to capture value in these supply chains. These questions are especially pressing in South India, which has struggled to spread the economic development of Hyderabad and coastal Andhra Pradesh to poorer rural areas plagued by suicide and agrarian distress. In this article, we explore how organic farmers and intermediaries in South India navigate the demands of foreign capital and governance while negotiating the benefits of global ethical supply chains alongside their own aspirations.
Triphenylene‐Derived Electron Acceptors and Donors on Ag(111): Formation of Intermolecular Charge‐Transfer Complexes with Common Unoccupied Molecular States
Authors: Müller Kathrin , Schmidt Nico , Link Stefan , Riedel René , Bock Julian , Malone Walter , Lasri Karima , Kara Abdelkader , Starke Ulrich , Kivala Milan , Stöhr Meike
Published: July 2019

Over the past years, ultrathin films consisting of electron donating and accepting molecules have attracted increasing attention due to their potential usage in optoelectronic devices. Key parameters for understanding and tuning their performance are intermolecular and molecule–substrate interactions. Here, the formation of a monolayer thick blend of triphenylene‐based organic donor and acceptor molecules from 2,3,6,7,10,11‐hexamethoxytriphenylene (HAT) and 1,4,5,8,9,12‐hexaazatriphenylenehexacarbonitrile (HATCN), respectively, on a silver (111) surface is reported. Scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy, valence and core level photoelectron spectroscopy, as well as low‐energy electron diffraction measurements are used, complemented by density functional theory calculations, to investigate both the electronic and structural properties of the homomolecular as well as the intermixed layers. The donor molecules are weakly interacting with the Ag(111) surface, while the acceptor molecules show a strong interaction with the substrate leading to charge transfer and substantial buckling of the top silver layer and of the adsorbates. Upon mixing acceptor and donor molecules, strong hybridization occurs between the two different molecules leading to the emergence of a common unoccupied molecular orbital located at both the donor and acceptor molecules. The donor acceptor blend studied here is, therefore, a compelling candidate for organic electronics based on self‐assembled charge‐transfer complexes.
α‐Ni(OH)2 Originated from Electro‐Oxidation of NiSe2 Supported by Carbon Nanoarray on Carbon Cloth for Efficient Water Oxidation
Authors: Wang Ling , Wang Xiaopeng , Xi Shibo , Du Yonghua , Xue Junmin
Published: July 2019

Development of effective oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts has been intensively studied to improve water splitting efficiency and cost effectiveness in the last ten years. However, it is a big challenge to obtain highly efficient and durable OER electrocatalysts with overpotentials below 200 mV at 10 mA cm−2 despite the efforts made to date. In this work, the successful synthesis of supersmall α‐Ni(OH)2 is reported through electro‐oxidation of NiSe2 loaded onto carbon nanoarrays. The obtained α‐Ni(OH)2 shows excellent activity and long‐term stability for OER, with an overpotential of only 190 mV at the current density of 10 mA cm−2, which represents a highly efficient OER electrocatalyst. The excellent activity could be ascribed to the large electrochemical surface area provided by the carbon nanoarray, as well as the supersmall size (≈10 nm) of α‐Ni(OH)2 which possess a large number of active sites for the reaction. In addition, the phase evolution of α‐Ni(OH)2 from NiSe2 during the electro‐oxidation process was monitored with in situ X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) analysis.
Perovskite Solar Cells Using Surface‐Modified NiOx Nanoparticles as Hole Transport Materials in n‐i‐p Configuration
Authors: Kaneko Ryuji , Kanda Hiroyuki , Sugawa Kosuke , Otsuki Joe , Islam Ashraful , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: July 2019

Modified NiOx nanoparticles (NPs) developed via surface engineering are applied to a hole transport layer (HTL) in n‐i‐p‐structured perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Hexanoic acid (HA) as a surfactant improves the dispersibility of NiOx NPs in chlorobenzene (CB). The conductivity of the NiOx‐HA film is , which is superior to that of 2,2′,7,7′‐tetrakis(N,N‐di‐p‐methoxyphenyl‐amine)‐9,9′‐spirobifluorene (spiro‐OMeTAD) with dopants. The NiOx‐HA film shows better hole extraction properties compared with the pristine NiOx film. The NiOx‐HA NPs form closely packed and pinhole‐free films, leading to improved device performance with a power conversion efficiency from 5.5% to 13.1%.
Reflections on the use of protein binders to study protein function in developmental biology
Authors: Aguilar Gustavo , Vigano M. Alessandra , Affolter Markus , Matsuda Shinya
Published: July 2019

Studies in the field of developmental biology aim to unravel how a fertilized egg develops into an adult organism and how proteins and other macromolecules work together during this process. With regard to protein function, most of the developmental studies have used genetic and RNA interference approaches, combined with biochemical analyses, to reach this goal. However, there always remains much room for interpretation on how a given protein functions, because proteins work together with many other molecules in complex regulatory networks and it is not easy to reveal the function of one given protein without affecting the networks. Likewise, it has remained difficult to experimentally challenge and/or validate the proposed concepts derived from mutant analyses without tools that directly manipulate protein function in a predictable manner. Recently, synthetic tools based on protein binders such as scFvs, nanobodies, DARPins, and others have been applied in developmental biology to directly manipulate target proteins in a predicted manner. Although such tools would have a great impact in filling the gap of knowledge between mutant phenotypes and protein functions, careful investigations are required when applying functionalized protein binders to fundamental questions in developmental biology. In this review, we first summarize how protein binders have been used in the field, and then reflect on possible guidelines for applying such tools to study protein functions in developmental biology.

This article is categorized under:

Technologies > Analysis of Proteins

Establishment of Spatial and Temporal Patterns > Gradients

Invertebrate Organogenesis > Flies
Differentiation and integration: off-site resettlement planning practice in New Beichuan after 5.12 Wenchuan Earthquake
Authors: Zhang Yisha , Yu Yifan , Xu Wenjuan , Hu Jingjing
Published: July 2019

This article explores the spatial differentiation and integration between the post-disaster victims and the indigenous peasants 8 years after a rapid off-site resettlement oriented by governments in New Beichuan. Data were broadly collected from placement documents, questionnaires, interviews and site measurement by empirical research and on-site investigation in 2014. The resettlement plan was introduced and analyzed for housing resettlement, open space systems, public facilities allocation and resettlement policies. Based on statistical analysis of the questionnaire data and observation on the usage of the built environment, problems with the spatial usage and mismatches between the specific spatial requirements and subjective planning intention of integration are analyzed and preliminary findings are shown. The results showed that the excessive pursuit of speed and deficiency in economically self-sustaining efforts might contribute to insufficient attention given to spatial, social and economic aspects and leads to inevitable and long-standing problems, such as housing quality problems, neighborhoods management and security concerns, contradictions between the housing layout and local living habits, different spatial usage preferences between the indigenous peasants and post-disaster migrants, and disequilibrium of public facility allocation.
Formation of Iron-Rich Intermetallic Phases in Al-7Si-Mg: Influence of Cooling Rate and Strontium Modification
Authors: Santos Jorge , Jarfors Anders E. W. , Dahle Arne K.
Published: July 2019

The influence of cooling rate on the formation of iron-rich intermetallic phases during solidification of unmodified and strontium-modified Al-7Si-0.3Mg alloys has been investigated. The effect of strontium on the intermetallic phases was evaluated in unquenched and quenched samples. Samples were quenched before the start of the Al-Si eutectic reaction, along the Al-Si eutectic reaction and just after the end of solidification. The results show that the addition of strontium increased the size of both β-Al5FeSi and π-Al8FeMg3Si6 at low cooling rates. For unmodified and strontium-modified alloys, an increase of cooling rate resulted in a decrease in size of the intermetallic phases, particularly in the strontium modified alloy. In the strontium modified alloy quenched before the start of the Al-Si eutectic reaction, π-Al8FeMg3Si6 appeared as thin platelets at the eutectic cell boundaries. Chinese script-like π-Al8FeMg3Si6 and platelet-like β-Al5FeSi intermetallic phases were observed uniformly distributed in the eutectic regions in the unmodified alloy quenched before the start of the eutectic reaction. Strontium modified semi-solid Al-7Si-0.3Mg castings were produced and the type of intermetallic phase, morphology, size, area fraction and distribution were similar to that observed in the strontium modified alloy quenched before the start of the Al-Si eutectic reaction.
Biopsychosocial frailty and the risk of incident dementia: The Italian longitudinal study on aging
Authors: Solfrizzi Vincenzo , Scafato Emanuele , Lozupone Madia , Seripa Davide , Schilardi Andrea , Custodero Carlo , Sardone Rodolfo , Galluzzo Lucia , Gandin Claudia , Baldereschi Marzia , Di Carlo Antonio , Inzitari Domenico , Giannelli Gianluigi , Daniele Antonio , Sabbà Carlo , Logroscino Giancarlo , Panza Francesco ,   Italian Longitudinal Study on Aging Working Group
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Frailty is a critical intermediate status of the aging process including physical, cognitive, and psychosocial domains/phenotypes. We operationalized a new biopsychosocial frailty (BF) construct, estimating its impact on the risk of incident dementia and its subtypes.

Methods

In 2171 older individuals from the population‐based Italian Longitudinal Study on Aging (ILSA), we identified by latent class procedures the BF construct as the physical frail status plus at least one of the two items of the 30‐item Geriatric Depression Scale impaired (items 3/10).

Results

Over a 3.5‐year follow‐up, participants with BF showed an increased risk of overall dementia (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.07‐4.37), particularly vascular dementia (VaD) (HR: 3.21, 95% CI: 1.05‐9.75). Similarly, over a 7‐year follow‐up, an increased risk of overall dementia (HR: 1.84, 95% CI: 1.06‐3.20), particularly VaD (HR: 2.53, 95% CI: 1.08‐5.91), was also observed.

Discussion

In a large cohort of Italian older individuals without cognitive impairment at baseline, a BF model was a short‐ and long‐term predictor of overall dementia, particularly VaD.
‘I’ve got to row the boat on my own, more or less’: aboriginal australian experiences of traumatic brain injury
Authors: Armstrong Elizabeth , Coffin Juli , McAllister Meaghan , Hersh Deborah , Katzenellenbogen Judith M. , Thompson Sandra C. , Ciccone Natalie , Flicker Leon , Cross Natasha , Arabi Linda , Woods Deborah , Hayward Colleen
Published: July 2019

Background:

The overarching cultural context of the brain injury survivor, particularly that related to minority peoples with a history of colonisation and discrimination, has rarely been referred to in the research literature, despite profoundly influencing a person’s recovery journey in significant ways, including access to services. This study highlights issues faced by Australian Aboriginal traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivors in terms of real-life consequences of the high incidence of TBI in this population, current treatment and long-term challenges.

Method:

A case study approach utilised qualitative interview and file review data related to five male Aboriginal TBI survivors diagnosed with acquired communication disorders. The five TBI survivors were from diverse areas of rural and remote Western Australia, aged between 19 and 48 years at the time of injury, with a range of severity.

Case Reports:

Common themes included: significant long-term life changes; short-term and long-term dislocation from family and country as medical intervention and rehabilitation were undertaken away from the person’s rural/remote home; family adjustments to the TBI including permanent re-location to a metropolitan area to be with their family member in residential care; challenges related to lack of formal rehabilitation services in rural areas; poor communication channels; poor cultural security of services; and lack of consistent follow-up.

Discussion and Conclusion:

These case reports represent some of the first documented stories of Aboriginal Australian TBI survivors. They supplement available epidemiological data and highlight different contexts for Aboriginal people after TBI, contributing to an overall profile that is relevant for rehabilitation service planning.
A Corpus Study of “Know”: On The Verification of Philosophers’ Frequency Claims about Language
Authors: Hansen Nat , Porter J.D. , Francis Kathryn
Published: July 2019

We investigate claims about the frequency of “know” made by philosophers. Our investigation has several overlapping aims. First, we aim to show what is required to confirm or disconfirm philosophers’ claims about the comparative frequency of different uses of philosophically interesting expressions. Second, we aim to show how using linguistic corpora as tools for investigating meaning is a productive methodology, in the sense that it yields discoveries about the use of language that philosophers would have overlooked if they remained in their “armchairs of an afternoon”, to use J.L. Austin's phrase. Third, we discuss facts about the meaning of “know” that so far have been ignored in philosophy, with the aim of reorienting discussions of the relevance of ordinary language for philosophical theorizing.
Supporting rule of law from abroad: a comparative assessment of two post-Arab Spring judicial reforms
Authors: Taffoni Gaia
Published: July 2019

In the Southern Mediterranean region, the European Union (EU) supports the establishment of rule of law, pressuring for both the adoption of institutional guarantees of judicial independence and the enhancement of court administration capabilities. Drawing on a set of interviews with key EU and domestic actors, this study compares Morocco and Jordan, examining changes adopted at the institutional and administrative level since the ‘Arab Spring’ broke out. The findings show that external incentives for change penetrated only the administrative level of domestic judicial systems, while a path-dependent effect persisted at the institutional level. The evidence confirms the thesis that in areas of low politics even a mere normative pressure is able to drive rule adoption, whereas in more sensitive policy areas, as in the case of institutional judicial guarantees, the higher costs of adaptation make veto players resistant to external influences for change.
Lipoprotein(a) concentration is associated with plasma arachidonic acid in subjects with familial hypercholesterolaemia
Authors: Narverud Ingunn , Bogsrud Martin P. , Øyri Linn K. L. , Ulven Stine M. , Retterstøl Kjetil , Ueland Thor , Mulder Monique , Roeters van Lennep Jeanine , Halvorsen Bente , Aukrust Pål , Veierød Marit B. , Holven Kirsten B.
Published: July 2019

Elevated lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is associated with CVD and is mainly genetically determined. Studies suggest a role of dietary fatty acids (FA) in the regulation of Lp(a); however, no studies have investigated the association between plasma Lp(a) concentration and n-6 FA. We aimed to investigate whether plasma Lp(a) concentration was associated with dietary n-6 FA intake and plasma levels of arachidonic acid (AA) in subjects with familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH). We included FH subjects with (n 68) and without (n 77) elevated Lp(a) defined as ≥75 nmol/l and healthy subjects (n 14). Total FA profile was analysed by GC–flame ionisation detector analysis, and the daily intake of macronutrients (including the sum of n-6 FA: 18 : 2n-6, 20 : 2n-6, 20 : 3n-6 and 20 : 4n-6) were computed from completed FFQ. FH subjects with elevated Lp(a) had higher plasma levels of AA compared with FH subjects without elevated Lp(a) (P = 0·03). Furthermore, both FH subjects with and without elevated Lp(a) had higher plasma levels of AA compared with controls (P < 0·001). The multivariable analyses showed associations between dietary n-6 FA intake and plasma levels of AA (P = 0·02) and between plasma levels of Lp(a) and AA (P = 0·006). Our data suggest a novel link between plasma Lp(a) concentration, dietary n-6 FA and plasma AA concentration, which may explain the small diet-induced increase in Lp(a) levels associated with lifestyle changes. Although the increase may not be clinically relevant, this association may be mechanistically interesting in understanding more of the role and regulation of Lp(a).
Wenceslas Looks Out: Monarchy, Locality, and the Symbolism of Power in Fourteenth-Century Bavaria
Authors: Scales Len
Published: July 2019

This article reassesses the reputation enjoyed by Charles IV of Luxemburg, emperor and king of Bohemia (r. 1346/1347–1378), as the author of a program aimed at projecting his monarchy via visual media. Current scholarship, which stresses the centrally directed character of this program, regards it as serving clear political goals, as “propaganda” to unify Charles's far-flung territories. This article challenges that view. It contends that a straightforward political purpose is often less detectable than usually claimed, and the political “success” of Caroline image-making easily overstated. Above all, it argues for the necessity of decentering Caroline visual culture by stepping away from the familiar focus on the Prague court, to explore instead provincial viewpoints. Focusing on northeastern Bavaria, it shows that local examples of Caroline imagery are often best understood not as impositions from the “center,” but rather as products of interactions between court and locality, through which local perspectives and interests also found expression.
Comparison of Sprinting With and Without Running-Specific Prostheses Using Optimal Control Techniques
Authors: Emonds Anna Lena , Funken Johannes , Potthast Wolfgang , Mombaur Katja
Published: July 2019

The purpose of our study was to get deeper insights into sprinting with and without running-specific prostheses and to perform a comparison of the two by combining analysis of known motion capture data with mathematical modeling and optimal control problem (OCP) findings. We established rigid multi-body system models with 14 bodies and 16 degrees of freedom in the sagittal plane for one unilateral transtibial amputee and three non-amputee sprinters. The internal joints are powered by torque actuators except for the passive prosthetic ankle joint which is equipped with a linear spring–damper system. For each model, the dynamics of one sprinting trial was reconstructed by solving a multiphase least squares OCP with discontinuities and constraints. We compared the motions of the amputee athlete and the non-amputee reference group by computing characteristic criteria such as the contribution of joint torques, the absolute mechanical work, step frequency and length, among others. By comparing the amputee athlete with the non-amputee athletes, we found reduced activity in the joints of the prosthetic limb, but increased torques and absolute mechanical work in the arms. We also compared the recorded motions to synthesized motions using different optimality criteria and found that the recorded motions are still far from the optimal solutions for both amputee and non-amputee sprinting.
Coseismic and Postseismic Slip of the 2005 Mw 8.6 Nias‐Simeulue Earthquake: Spatial Overlap and Localized Viscoelastic Flow
Authors: Qiu Qiang , Feng Lujia , Hermawan Iwan , Hill Emma M.
Published: July 2019

We present coseismic slip and afterslip inversion models based on the same fault geometry for the Mw 8.6 2005 Nias‐Simeulue earthquake at the Sumatran subduction zone. We estimate the coseismic slip using near‐field static GPS offsets, and vertical displacements based on satellite and coral data, while we estimate the afterslip simultaneously with viscoelastic flow using approximately nine years of GPS data following the event. With the current spatial resolution of our GPS network it is difficult to accurately resolve contributions from different postseismic mechanisms, that is, afterslip and viscoelastic relaxation from oceanic or continental mantle. We thus run many synthetic tests and models with various setups to find features that consistently appear in all our models, which we consider as robust. We find that the estimated afterslip is located primarily updip and downdip of the coseismic rupture patch and partially overlaps the updip region of the coseismic slip. We also find that the viscoelastic flow in the mantle wedge following this event was likely localized beneath the downdip region of the coseismic slip, rather than uniformly layered across the area as assumed by forward models. This localized viscoelastic flow coincides with a low‐velocity zone below Toba volcano, as imaged by tomography studies; it is possible that the viscoelastic flow beneath the volcano accelerated following this event.
ENSO‐Influenced Drought Drives Methane Flux Dynamics in a Tropical Wet Forest Soil
Authors: Aronson E. L. , Dierick D. , Botthoff J. K. , Oberbauer S. , Zelikova T. J. , Harmon T. C. , Rundel P. , Johnson R. F. , Swanson A. C. , Pinto‐Tomás A. A. , Artavia‐León A. , Matarrita‐Carranza B. , Allen M. F.
Published: July 2019

Global atmospheric methane growth rates have wildly fluctuated over the past three decades, which may be driven by the proportion of tropical land surface saturated by water. The El Niño/Southern Oscillation Event (ENSO) cycle drives large‐scale climatic trends globally, with El Niño events typically bringing drier weather than La Niña. In a lowland tropical wet forest in Costa Rica, we measured methane flux bimonthly from March 2016 to June 2017 and using an automated chamber system. We observed a strong drying trend for several weeks during the El Niño in 2016, reducing soil moisture below normal levels. In contrast, soil conditions had high water content prior to the drought and during the moderate La Niña that followed. Soil moisture varied across the period studied and significantly impacted methane flux. Methane consumption was greater during the driest part of the El Niño period, while during La Niña and other time periods, soils had lower methane consumption. The mean methane flux observed was −0.022 mg CH4‐C m−2 hr−1, and methane was consumed at all timepoints, with lower consumption in saturated soils. Our data show that month studied, and the correlation between soil type and month significantly drove methane flux trends. Our data indicate that ENSO cycles may impact biogenic methane fluxes, mediated by soil moisture conditions. Climate projections for Central America show dryer conditions and increased El Niño frequency, further exacerbating predicted drought. These trends may lead to negative climate feedbacks, with drier conditions increasing soil methane consumption from the atmosphere.
Fault Geometry and Slip Distribution of the 2013 Mw 6.6 Lushan Earthquake in China Constrained by GPS, InSAR, Leveling, and Strong Motion Data
Authors: Huang Yong , Qiao Xuejun , Freymueller Jeffrey T. , Wang Qi , Yang Shaomin , Tan Kai , Zhao Bin
Published: July 2019

On 20 April 2013, an Mw 6.6 Lushan earthquake occurred on the southwestern segment of the Longmen Shan fault belt, which is the tectonic block boundary between the eastern Tibetan plateau and the Sichuan basin. Seismic reflection profiles and aftershock relocation indicate that there exists a back thrust fault in the source region but whether it is ruptured during the Lushan earthquake remains controversial. Here the precise leveling data are firstly used together with Global Positioning System (GPS), Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR), and strong motion data to invert for the fault geometry and slip distribution associated with the earthquake. The joint inversion result shows that the Lushan earthquake occurred on a blind thrust fault with strike N208.5 °E and dip 42.1° to the NW and did not rupture the back reverse fault. The coseismic slip model reveals the Lushan earthquake involves the rupture of one major asperity. The coseismic slip is mainly concentrated on a steeply dipping fault plane. The coseismic rupture terminates on the southwestern side of the seismic gap between the Wenchuan and Lushan earthquakes. Topographic stress may be the dominant mechanism of coseismic rupture termination.
Origin of Regular Networks of Joints: Experimental Constraints, Theoretical Background, and Numerical Modeling
Authors: Chemenda A. I.
Published: July 2019

Experimental data show that inelastic straining occurs even at very low pressure before and during brittle fracturing. This process is therefore investigated within the framework of elastoplasticity using 2‐D, three‐layer finite difference modeling. The constitutive model includes both tensile and shear failure mechanisms coupled at the level of the strain softening law. The modeling results show that sets of parallel joints initiate as pure dilation bands, the narrow σ3‐normal bands of localized dilatant damage (inelastic deformation). The band thickness, length, and the initial strain softening degree within it are proportional to the ductility of the material, which increases with the effective stress level (σ1) or pressure. The strength reduction within the bands is accelerated at a certain stage, and the strength locally reaches zero resulting in fracture initiation. The initial fracture then propagates in Mode I following the propagating band. The fracture (joint) appears thus as a band of damaged material with the increased porosity, which is maximum along the axial zone of the band where the material is completely broken. The damage is due to both tensile and shear mechanisms. The role of shear failure increases with the ductility (pressure) increase, which also leads to the band thickness increase. These processes can result in small (band thickness)‐scale oblique shear fractures within the band, causing the increase in the roughness of fracture walls organized in plumose patterns typical of both natural and experimentally generated joints.