bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Redevelopment to Gentrification in Hong Kong: A Case Study of Kwun Tong Town Center Project
Authors: Xingyu Qian , Chengzhi Yin
Published: January 2021

Playing as a global city, to maintain the economic dynamics and urban vitality, Hong Kong government would like to take urban regeneration in urban core as a kind of urban growth strategy. The government monopolizes land supply for urban development through the leasehold system, while the redevelopment agency is authorized to take land acquisition for urban redevelopment. The transformation of agency from Land Development Corporation (LDC) to Urban Renewal Authority (URA) reflected the formation of a coalition composed of quasi-public redevelopment agency and private developer, which facilitates land and property resumption in urban redevelopment. The URA-led projects often tend to redevelop obsolete communities into up-market neighborhoods, which possibly enables redevelopment agency and developers to gain more economic benefits from real estate appreciation. Nevertheless, evidences from some large redevelopment projects conducted by URA in Hong Kong such as Lee Tung Street, Langham Palace and Kennedy Town have presented that urban redevelopment is closely associated with gentrification triggered by displacement of original neighborhood residents. Hence gentrification in Hong Kong has raised more and more concerns about booming housing price as well as fragmentation of social networks. Through urban regime combined with growth machine approach, this paper will explain the collusion of redevelopment agency and private developers that jointly turns the URA-led redevelopment into neighborhood gentrification. And by examining Kwun Tong Town Centre Project (KTTCP), findings indicate that soaring property value will crowd low-income groups and working classes out from their original neighborhoods; and then those gentrified residential estates will be occupied by rich class. Moreover, increasing rent and operation costs will inevitably eliminate those family-operated small businesses; and then they will be superseded by high-end retailing and services. In this way, urban morphology will be reshaped perpetually through more and more gentrified neighborhoods.
Virtual Design Method of Interior Landscape Based on 3D Vision
Authors: Zhang Liang
Published: January 2021

To achieve the most intuitive display of interior design effect, the concept, characteristics, expression mode, application scope and basic types of virtual reality display design are expounded from the perspective of three dimension (3d) virtual reality technology, and the advantages and disadvantages of 3d modeling speed and panoramic visualization display are analyzed. The results show that through this research and practice, a series of 3d production techniques for interior design space, such as mapping technology, lighting technology, modeling technology, etc., are summarized. These technologies can effectively make use of ordinary computer to make and operate virtual reality and makes an exploratory attempt for the promotion of 3d technology in interior design industry in the future. In this study, it provides a design fulcrum for the development of indoor furniture display under the new economic conditions, which is of great practical significance for the healthy and sustainable development of interior design industry.
Human-Oriented Smart City Planning and Management Based on Time-Space Behavior
Authors: Feng Mingliang
Published: January 2021

To improve the quality of life, human-oriented smart city planning and management based on time-space behavior was studied. First, the basic theory of time-space behavior and smart city was introduced. The relationship between public participation and smart city construction planning was analyzed, and the positive and negative significance of public participation in smart city construction planning was expounded. Then, the mechanism for public participation in smart city construction planning was proposed. Finally, public participation in smart city construction planning was analyzed from the perspectives of power balance, interest coordination and safeguard measures. The results showed that public participation in smart city construction planning was an important manifestation of the realization of public democratic rights. The scientific nature and feasibility of smart city construction planning was enhanced. The smooth implementation of smart city construction planning was an important foundation for promoting smart city construction. Therefore, public participation is an important way to safeguard social public interests and build a harmonious society.
Building for A Healthy Habitat in Bolivia: Experience in Eradicating the Chagas Disease, 1993-2005
Authors: Estívarez Oscar Lijerón
Published: January 2021

The chagas disease is a parasitic illness affecting the rural poor in the high Andes of Latin America. There are no known vaccines or medicines and it is one of Bolivia's most serious health problems. In 1993 Fundacion Pro Habitat (FPH) initiated an integrated eradication programme of community-based education, training and physical housing improvements. Twelve years later regions with high rates of the disease are now becoming fully free of the vector that causes it and almost 20,000 dwellings have been improved. The approach has legislative support through the National Healthy Housing Programme and is being replicated by other NGOs.
Editorial: Adapting Buildings to Climate Change
Authors: Mallick Fuad H. , Mourshed Monjur
Published: January 2021

The interdependence and feedback between climate impacts mitigation and adaptation to the inevitable changes in climate are the key challenges for the built environment in the coming decades. These challenges are more pronounced in the interface between science and society, in which scientific knowledge and evidence are transformed into policy actions. This editorial looks at current and growing evidence base on the impacts of climate change and the means to adapt buildings, as well as the interface between policies and evidence base while summarising the contributions to this special issue.
The Assessment and Impact of Shopping Centers: Case Study Lemar
Authors: Fasli Mukaddes , Riza Muge , Erbilen Mustafa
Published: January 2021

Economic, socio-cultural and demographic changes in Famagusta have altered consumers’ shopping expectations; they expect good architectural quality as well as various functions and activities besides shopping. The concept of shopping has moved away from being purely a necessity towards being part of the urban lifestyle. Accordingly, recently developed shopping centres try to satisfy these new demands in a variety of ways. The new Lemar shopping centre in Famagusta, Northern Cyprus, is an example of such a centre. This study aimed to measure user satisfaction and identifies the impact of the Lemar shopping centre on the immediate local context by surveying 104 randomly selected consumers, local residents and shopkeepers. Statistical analysis of the resulting data was used to determine Lemar’s physical qualities, functions and activities as well as its general impact on its close urban context and the wider city. Survey data is supplemented with on-site observations. This study reveals that the majority of respondents perceive the shopping centre as a positive contribution to the area, as an attractive building with a contemporary style and pleasant indoor spaces. On the other hand, it has increased the traffic on the high street, the area has become more crowded and air pollution has increased. This study suggests that consumers’ and citizens’ viewpoints should be considered in planning decisions in order to contribute to the success of shopping centres.
Multi-Criteria Decision Support System for Green Commercial Space Design
Authors: Huang Hao-Cheng , Perng Yeng-Horng
Published: January 2021

Commercial space features essential characteristics of attracting clients and creating profits; thus, the exterior and interior designs of conventional commercial space were often made to look grandiose and overdecorated. Over time, according to commercial attributes, operator preferences, and style of the designer, commercial spaces have constantly undergone renovation into varied styles. However, the physical renovation processhas caused multiple and composite types of environmental pollution, such as waste and noise pollution caused by breaking of walls or partitions, anddecorative paint pollution, as well as the use of high-energy-consuming lighting equipment, air-conditioning systems, and decorative materials. Global pollution has caused climate change, endangering living organismsand human life. Furthermore, no effective method exists to control the problem of high greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, this study used energy-saving design concerns of a garden-type commercial space to propose an energy-saving evaluation model. The study combined three methodologies, the Delphi method, analytic hierarchy process, and fuzzy logic theory, to construct a multi-criteria decision support system for designing green commercial spaces, and used the green spatial design of a garden café as an example to illustrate the high objectivity and adaptability of the proposed model in practical application. The study also used an international award-winning case to validate that the proposed model had practical value as a reference to support key design decisions.
Determinants of Residential Location Choice in Istanbul: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Salihoglu Tayfun , Türkoglu Handan
Published: January 2021

Residential mobility is a dynamic urban process resulting from the ever changing internal and external factors of households' residential preferences. Factors effecting these preferences are related to households'perception of spatial issues such as the characteristics of a house, accessibility to urban functions and transportation, land values and house prices, neighborhood characteristics, residential satisfaction, and attachment. The effects of these issues vary through the life cycle as well as social, economic, and employment status of a household. As a result of the legal arrangements and state incentives that have helped to develop the construction industry, current housing patterns have shifted in Istanbul since the 2000s'. This study aims to investigate the changing trends in the factors that affected the residential location preferences of Istanbulites from 2006 to 2014. Data was collected through a stratified sampling method from two different surveys in 2006 and 2014. The paper explains the change in the destination choice of residents in the city at the district level and furthermore, changes in the households' intention to move to one of the three different housing patterns which are common in the city.
Public Involvement in the Design of Public Projects
Authors: Mushtaha Emad S. , Omar Omar Hassan , Barakat Dua S. , Al-Jarwan Hessa , Abdulrahman Dima , Alsyouf Imad
Published: January 2021

The involvement of the public in the decision-making process is essential, especially in the early stages of a design process. This study aims to achieve the development of an architectural program for a memorial public project, using the outcomes of the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) based on public opinion. It employs a novel approach that sharply focuses on public involvement in the design process, using a quantitative methodology for the development of a suitable building program and selecting a memorial form that meets the public's needs in a practical way. The study drew on data from various memorial projects to identify possible spaces and their selection criteria. A written questionnaire was distributed to a sample of 105 members of the public, to narrow down the number of spaces according to public response. Then, a hearing (spoken) questionnaire was conducted on a sample of 20 to produce the program for development by generating the most strongly preferred form of memorial. The results contradicted the existing norm for a memorial as a sculpture; it was revealed that most of the public preferred memorial landscapes to buildings and great structures. The study concluded that AHP could be used to further involve the relevant stakeholders in the decision-making process of the design of a public project.
Cheating, culture and incentives: who deserves a bonus?
Authors: Oberman William D. , Morrisette Shelley , Hunt Irma , Edwards Yancy
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to examine the relationship of perceptions of organizational justice on the ranking of candidates for incentive bonuses and the impact of organizational culture on these perceptions.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was developed which asked respondents to rank a set of seven candidates for a sales bonus based on deservingness for the bonus. Descriptions of the candidates included information not only on whether they achieved a pre-established metric for the bonus, but on how they achieved (or failed to achieve) the metric. Hypotheses related compliance with norms of organizational justice, both by candidates and the organization, to candidate rank. The survey was administered to a sample of 204 employees of business organizations at all levels obtained through a survey research firm, as well as a sample of 52 employees of organizations in the Christian publishing industry. Nonparametric statistics were used to analyze the results. A comparison was made between the respondents sourced through the research firm, seen as representing the general population and those from the Christian-oriented group.

Findings

Hypotheses that respondents will seek to punish violators of justice norms, reward compliers and compensate victims of organizational unfairness were generally supported. More interesting were differences between the groups of respondents from the general population and the group representing Christian-based firms.

Originality/value

This article reveals the impact of organizational culture on the acceptance of incentive systems. The research employed a practitioner survey, rather than more common experimental approach.
Improving performance through leaders' forgiveness: the mediating role of radical innovation
Authors: Domínguez-Escrig Emilio , Mallén Broch Francisco Fermín , Chiva Gómez Ricardo , Lapiedra Alcamí Rafael
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The objective of this study is to analyze the relationship between leaders' forgiveness and organizational performance using radical innovation as an explanatory variable.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted in a sample frame of 11,594 Spanish companies. A total of 600 valid questionnaires were obtained. The structural equations were used to validate the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

Results confirmed the hypotheses proposed in the model: the authors provided, through structural equations, empirical evidence of the relationship between leaders' forgiveness and organizational performance, mediated by radical innovation. Leaders' forgiveness promotes radical innovation and, in turn, performance.

Research limitations/implications

The sample of companies is heterogeneous in terms of firm turnover, size and age. The study is focused on radical innovation.

Practical implications

The present study may help to develop more humane policies to manage human resources, by taking into account employees' feelings and needs.

Originality/value

The business field is closer to competitive values and has traditionally underestimated the importance of leaders' forgiveness. This is one of the few studies that empirically analyze the consequences of leaders' forgiveness within organizations.
Emotional brand attachment and brand love: the emotional bridges in the process of transition from satisfaction to loyalty
Authors: Ghorbanzadeh Davood , Rahehagh Atena
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Satisfaction and loyalty as vital and strategic concepts in the marketing literature are highly important to companies and marketers. The review of the existing literature reveals a gap of the role of emotional constructs that can begin in a regular and rational sequence of satisfaction and ultimately lead to the formation of consumer loyalty. Hence, this study aims to answer the question of whether emotional constructs such as emotional attachment and love play a mediating role in the process of transitioning from satisfaction to loyalty in the correct sequence.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 300 valid questionnaires on smartphone and apparel brands were collected from respondents and analyzed using the partial least squares method.

Findings

The results showed that brand love is the strongest antecedent of brand loyalty and is the only variable that directly influences brand loyalty in comparison to satisfaction and emotional brand attachment. Moreover, the examination of indirect effects revealed that our assumption based on that the emotional structures such as emotional attachment and brand love play a mediating role in the process of transitioning from satisfaction to loyalty in a correct sequence is supported.

Research limitations/implications

Generalizability needs to be established with a wider range of consumer groups. The survey was conducted in Iran, and future research should assess the same product categories in other cultural settings as well as consider other product categories to assess the external validity of these results. The insights on consumers’ brand relationships help brand managers devise effective brand management strategies.

Practical implications

The managerial implications can guide managers toward enhancing the consumers’ loyalty to the brand through a better understanding of the consumer loyalty process to a brand as well as better relational marketing practices.

Originality/value

The study validates the mediating role of emotional brand attachment and brand love in the relationship between brand satisfaction and brand loyalty, is one of the first to develop a conceptual model that examines the role of emotional structures in the process of transition from satisfaction to loyalty, is one of few studies to develop the role of emotional structures in the form of a relational chain of brands in the process of transition from satisfaction to loyalty.
Bioactive edible film based on Konjac glucomannan and probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum strains: Physicochemical properties and shelf life of fresh‐cut kiwis
Authors: Hashemi Seyed Mohammad Bagher , Jafarpour Dornoush
Published: January 2021

This study investigates the efficacy of Lactobacillus plantarum strains (L. plantarum LP3, L. plantarum AF1, and L. plantarum LU5) incorporated into a Konjac‐based edible coating in order to prevent fungi growth and retain physicochemical characteristics of fresh‐cut kiwis kept at 4 °C for 5 days. For this purpose, probiotic survivability, fungi counts, decay percentage, color changes, titratable acidity (TA), total soluble solids (TSS), ascorbic acid content, chlorophyll amount, total phenolics, and DPPH radical scavenging of fresh‐cut kiwis were evaluated. Results indicated that the population of L. plantarum strains in all treated groups retained at sufficient amounts of probiotic consumption (above 6 and 7 log CFU/g) at the end of the storage period and L. plantarum LP3 had the highest viability in comparison to other strains. The incorporation of L. plantarum in Konjac coatings markedly reduced the amount of decay and color changes and maintained the chlorophyll and ascorbic acid contents of fresh‐cut kiwis compared to control samples. After 5 days of storage, total phenol content and the DPPH antiradical activities of coated kiwi slices treated with probiotics were observed about 1.2 and 10.23 g/kg compared to the pure Konjac‐coated (0.84 and 7.6 g/kg) and Konjac‐uncoated samples (0.44 and 4.1 g/kg), respectively. No significant difference in TSS and TA of various treatments was detected. Coated kiwi slices loaded with probiotics had higher overall acceptability compared to Konjac‐coated and control samples. In addition, probiotic treatment significantly reduced mold and yeast counts compared to the control group.

Practical Applications

Recently, edible films have received more consideration as a promising method to enhance the shelf life of fresh‐cut fruit. The presence of probiotics in edible films reduces the growth of spoilage microorganisms and improves consumer health. Our findings encourage the application of edible coating incorporated with L. plantarum to design multifunctional foods and preserve the qualities of fresh‐cut kiwifruit.
The Development Characteristics and Distribution Predictions of the Paleogene Coal‐measure Source Rock in the Qiongdongnan Basin, Northern South China Sea
Authors: WANG Dongdong , ZHANG Gongcheng , LI Zengxue , DONG Guoqi , SUN Rui , GUO Shuai , WU Yue
Published: January 2021

There are known to be enormous Cenozoic coal‐type oil and gas resources located in the basins of the South China Sea, among which the Paleogene coal‐measure source rock are one of the main source rock. In order to more effectively analyze the distribution laws of coal‐measure source rock in marginal sea basins and guide coal‐type oil and gas explorations, the Oligocene coal‐measure source rock in the Qiongdongnan Basin were selected as examples in order to systematically analyze the types, development characteristics, control factors, and distribution prediction methods of coal‐measure source rock in marginal sea basins. The Qiongdongnan Basin is located in the northern region of the South China Sea. Previous explorations of the area have determined that the Oligocene coal‐measure source rock in the Qiongdongnan Basin have typical “binary structures”, which include coal seams and terrigenous marine mudstone. Among those, the terrigenous marine mudstone has been found to greatly expand the scope of the coal‐measure source rock. In addition, the coal seams which have been exposed by drilling have been observed to have the characteristics of thin single layer thickness, many layers, and poor stability. Meanwhile, the terrigenous marine mudstone has the characteristics of large thickness and wide distribution. The development of coal‐measure source rock is known to be controlled by many factors, such as paleoclimate and paleobotany condition, paleo‐structure and topography, paleo‐geography, rise and fall of base level, and so on. In accordance with the comprehensive analyses of various control factors of coal‐measure source rock, and the changes in water body energy in sedimentary environments, a genetic model of the “energy belt” for the development and distribution of coal‐measure source rock was proposed. Also, the development and distribution characteristics of coal‐measure source rock in different types of energy belts were clarified. Then, based on the development and distribution characteristics of coal‐measure source rock and their controlling factors, prediction methods of the distribution ranges of coal‐measure source rock were proposed from both qualitative and (semi‐) quantitative aspects. That is to say, a method for (semi‐) quantitative predictions of the distribution ranges of coal‐bearing intervals based on model wave impedance inversion and neural network wave impedance inversion, along with a method for (semi‐) quantitative predictions of the distribution ranges of terrigenous marine mudstone based on topographical slopes, were introduced in this study.
The role of genital mycoplasma infection in female infertility: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tantengco Ourlad Alzeus G. , de Castro Silva Mariana , Velayo Clarissa L.
Published: January 2021

Problem

Recent studies show that lower genital tract infection with genital mycoplasma may be associated with the pathology of female infertility. However, this association remains controversial due to the variable prevalence, sample sizes, and different methods used to diagnose genital mycoplasma infection. The aim of the present meta‐analysis was to gain better understanding of the specific impact of genital mycoplasma on female infertility.

Method of Study

A systematic review of literature on the association of genital mycoplasma (Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma parvum, and Ureaplasma urealyticum) infection and female infertility was performed using three electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL, from January 2000 to January 2020. Pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals for genital mycoplasma infection and female infertility were derived from a fixed effects model.

Results

This meta‐analysis included eight studies conducted in six countries. Based on the results, women with infertility had a statistically higher odds of having any genital mycoplasma infection (p < .0001) compared to the control group. The pooled OR of all the included studies was 3.82 (95% CI: 2.55, 5.72). There was an unremarkable heterogeneity in all the studies included in this meta‐analysis (I2 = 0%, p = .48). A subgroup analysis also showed that M. genitalium, M. hominis, and U. urealyticum infections are significantly associated with female infertility.

Conclusion

Our meta‐analysis showed a significant association between M. genitalium, M. hominis, and U. urealyticum infections and female infertility. This evidence supports the development of guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of genital mycoplasma infections to prevent female infertility.
Mechanisms of oral immunotherapy
Authors: Barshow Suzanne M. , Kulis Michael D. , Burks A. Wesley , Kim Edwin H.
Published: January 2021

Food allergy presents a significant global health concern with up to 10% of the population affected in developed nations and a steadily increasing prevalence. In many cases, particularly with peanut, tree nut and shellfish, food allergy is a lifelong and potentially life‐threatening diagnosis. While no ‘cure’ for IgE‐mediated food allergy exists, oral immunotherapy (OIT) is a promising treatment modality with the peanut OIT drug Palforzia (Aimmune Therapeutics) the only treatment for food allergy that is currently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration. OIT primarily induces a state of desensitization with only a minority of subjects achieving sustained unresponsiveness, a state of limited clinical remission that appears to be immunologically distinct from natural tolerance. Early humoural changes during OIT include an initial increase in allergen‐specific IgE, which eventually decreases to below baseline levels as OIT progresses, and a gradual increase in allergen‐specific IgA and IgG4 that continues throughout the course of OIT. Basophil hyporesponsiveness and decreased skin prick test wheal size are observed within the first year of OIT, and persistence after completion of therapy has been associated with sustained unresponsiveness. In the T‐cell compartment, there is an initial expansion followed by a decline in the number and activity of T helper 2 (TH2) cells, the latter of which may be dependent on an expansion of IL‐10‐producing cells, including regulatory T‐cells. Our understanding of the immunomodulatory effects of OIT continues to evolve, with new technologies such as single‐cell transcriptional profiling and antibody epitope analysis allowing for more detailed study of T‐cell and B‐cell responses to OIT. In this review, we present evidence to illustrate what is currently known about the immunologic changes induced by OIT, explore potential mechanisms and emphasize knowledge gaps where future research is needed.
Systematic screening for late sequelae after colorectal cancer—a feasibility study
Authors: Juul Therese , Bräuner Annette Boesen , Drewes Asbjørn Mohr , Emmertsen Katrine Jøssing , Krogh Klaus , Laurberg Søren , Lauritzen Michael Bødker , Thorlacius‐Ussing Ole , Christensen Peter ,   Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs Study Group
Published: January 2021

Aim

The aim of this study was to test the feasibility of a new method for systematic screening for late sequelae (LS) following colorectal cancer treatment.

Method

Patients with colorectal cancer from five Danish hospitals were invited to complete a survey about LS at 3, 12, 24 and 36 months after surgery as part of their follow‐up. The survey consisted primarily of validated tools, supplemented by a few ad hoc items, measuring bowel, urinary and sexual dysfunction, pain and quality of life and an additional question regarding request for contact. Patients completed surveys electronically or on paper.

Results

Of the 1721 invited patients, 1386 (80.5%) were included (1085 with colon cancer and 301 with rectal cancer) of whom 72.5% responded electronically. Patients responding electronically were 7.6 years younger than those responding on paper (P < 0.001). Since some patients answered more than once, the dataset consisted of 2361 surveys. Patients with colon cancer requested phone contact in 19.0% of the surveys, and 8.4% were referred to treatment for LS, primarily bowel dysfunction. Among patients with rectal cancer, 30.8% requested phone contact and 16.2% were referred for treatment of LS, mainly due to bowel and sexual dysfunction.

Conclusion

This is the first paper investigating a new method of systematic screening for LS following colorectal cancer using electronic patient‐reported outcome measures. The study shows that in the Danish population a high response rate can be obtained with this method and that close to three‐quarters of patients respond electronically. Patients with rectal cancer had a higher need for phone contact and treatment of LS than patients with colon cancer.
Regulation and function of the palmitoyl‐acyltransferase ZDHHC5
Authors: Woodley Keith T. , Collins Mark O.
Published: January 2021

Protein palmitoylation (S‐acylation) has emerged as an important player in a range of cellular processes, and as a result, the palmitoyl‐acyltransferase (PAT) enzymes which mediate this modification have entered into the spotlight. Palmitoyltransferase ZDHHC5 (ZDHHC5) is among the more unique members of the PAT family as it is mainly localised to the plasma membrane and contains an extended cytoplasmic domain with several regulatory features. ZDHHC5 plays a vital role in a wide range of processes in different cell types. In this review, we offer a summary of the functions of ZDHHC5 in synaptic plasticity, cardiac function, cell adhesion and fatty acid uptake, among other processes. We also explore recent work has revealed several mechanisms to control the activity, localisation and function of ZDHHC5.
Hindcasting multidecadal predevelopment groundwater levels in the Floridan aquifer
Authors: Gordu Fatih , Nachabe Mahmood H.
Published: January 2021

Establishing predevelopment benchmark groundwater conditions is challenging without long‐term records to discern impacts of pumping and climate change on aquifer levels. Understanding periodic natural cycles and trends require 100 years or more data which rarely exist. Using limited records, we develop an approach to hindcast multidecadal levels and examine the temporal evolution of climatic and pumping impacts. The methodology includes a wavelet‐aided statistical model, constrained by temporal scales of physical processes responsible for groundwater level variation, including rainfall, evapotranspiration and pumping stresses. The model and hindcasts are tested at three sites in Florida using traditional split calibration‐verification methods for the period of record and with the documented historical drought and wet years for the period of no‐record. The pumping impact is quantified over time and compared with regional groundwater models, revealing that withdrawals are responsible for 30 to 70% of the declines in levels since 1960s. Hindcasting yielding 110 years of monthly levels is used to assess the effect of climate change and pumping on the frequency of critical low levels. At all three sites, the frequencies of critical low levels increase significantly in the 1960 to 2015 period when compared to the 1904 to 1959 period. For example, at site 1, the return period of the critical low level is shortened by 3.9 years due to climate change and 2.2 years due to pumping.
Secondary stabbing headache associated with intracranial tumors, aneurysms, and arteriovenous malformation: An alarming warning sign
Authors: Valença Marcelo Moraes , de Azevedo Filho Hildo Rocha Cirne , de Souza Ferreira Maria Rosana , Valença Marcelo Andrade , Krymchantowski Abouch Valenty , Valença Martina Falcão , Andrade‐Valença Luciana Patrízia Alves
Published: January 2021

Background

Stabbing headache (SH) is considered as a pure primary headache, but according to a few clinical observations it could also be secondary. Over the past decades, we have been observing the complaint of SH in patients with intracranial vascular and neoplastic lesions.

Objective

To describe a series of patients with intracranial lesions who experienced SH.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional, retrospective study of 34 patients with intracranial lesions associated with SH, admitted at Hospital das Clínicas, Federal University of Pernambuco, Brazil.

Results

In this series of 34 patients [29 women, 44 ± 12 years (mean ± SD)] with secondary SH, the causes were intracranial neoplasms (n = 31), cerebral aneurysms (n = 2), or arteriovenous malformation (n = 1). Pituitary tumor (n = 18), meningioma (n = 6), and vestibular schwannomas (n = 4) were the most prevalent types of intracranial neoplasms. All these lesions had intimate contact with the dura mater, including an oligodendroglioma, the only intra‐axial tumor in the series. A characteristic in the secondary SH is the crescendo pattern (12/34, 35%), progressing from infrequent attacks to recurrent crises occurring several times a day. The SH lasted from 5 days to 60 months (15 ± 18 months, mean ± SD) until the correct diagnosis [16/34 (47%) of the patients ≤6 months]. The SH was triggered by the movement of the head (5/34, 15%) or Valsalva maneuver (1/34). After surgery, suppression of the SH was observed. In a few of the patients to whom dexamethasone was prescribed, the SH subsided within a few days.

Conclusion

This study was able to identify clinical red flags associated with intracranial lesions and secondary SH, for example, recent onset of SH, exclusively unilateral (ipsilateral) at the same location, crescendo pattern, triggered by head movements, or Valsalva maneuver.
Association of serum CTRP9 levels with cardiac autonomic neuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Yang Junpeng , Zhao Dongni , Chen Yi , Ma Yuehua , Shi Xiaoyang , Wang Xiaobing , Lv Yinghua , Yuan Huijuan
Published: January 2021

Aims

Cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is a serious complication of diabetes and is associated with adipokines. The C1q tumor necrosis factor‐related protein 9 (CTRP9) is a newly discovered adipokine. This study aimed to evaluate the association of serum CTRP9 levels with the prevalence and severity of CAN in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Materials and Methods

We enrolled 262 patients (aged ≥18 years) with type 2 diabetes mellitus into this study. Standard cardiovascular autonomic reflex tests (CARTs) were used to assess CAN and patients were divided into three groups accordingly: a non‐CAN group, an early CAN group, and a definite CAN group. Serum CTRP9 levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and the tertiles were calculated.

Results

Serum CTRP9 levels decreased significantly in the early CAN and definite CAN groups (P < 0.05). The percentage of definite CAN was the highest at the minimum tertile of serum CTRP9 level (T1; P < 0.05). Additionally, serum CTRP9 levels were negatively correlated with age, DM duration, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) while positively correlated with high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL; P < 0.05). The level of CTRP9 was also significantly associated with the four indexes of CARTs (P < 0.05). Furthermore, CTRP9 was a protective factor for definite CAN (P < 0.05). Compared with the maximum tertile (T3) of the serum CTRP9 levels, a decreased level of serum CTRP9 in T1 significantly increased the prevalence ratio of definite CAN in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Serum CTRP9 levels were independently associated with definite CAN. CTRP9 represents a reliable biomarker for exploring CAN in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Glutamate is an essential mediator in glutamine‐amplified insulin secretion
Authors: Han Guirong , Takahashi Harumi , Murao Naoya , Gheni Ghupurjan , Yokoi Norihide , Hamamoto Yoshiyuki , Asahara Shun‐ichiro , Seino Yutaka , Kido Yoshiaki , Seino Susumu
Published: January 2021

Aims/Introduction

Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the circulation. In this study, we investigated cell signaling in the amplification of insulin secretion by glutamine.

Materials and Methods

Clonal pancreatic β‐cells MIN6‐K8, wild‐type B6 mouse islets, glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) knockout clonal β‐cells (Glud1KOβCL), and glutamate‐oxaloacetate transaminase 1 (GOT1) knockout clonal β‐cells (Got1KOβCL) were studied. Insulin secretion from these cells and islets was examined under various conditions, and intracellular glutamine metabolism was assessed by metabolic flux analysis. Intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) was also measured.

Results

Glutamine dose‐dependently amplified insulin secretion in the presence of high glucose in both MIN6‐K8 cells and Glud1KOβCL. Inhibition of glutaminases, the enzymes that convert glutamine to glutamate, dramatically reduced the glutamine‐amplifying effect on insulin secretion. A substantial amount of glutamate was produced from glutamine through direct conversion by glutaminases. Glutamine also increased [Ca2+]i at high glucose, which was abolished by inhibition of glutaminases. Glutamic acid dimethylester (dm‐Glu), a membrane permeable glutamate precursor that is converted to glutamate in cells, increased [Ca2+]i as well as induced insulin secretion at high glucose. These effects of glutamine and dm‐Glu were dependent on calcium influx. Glutamine also induced insulin secretion in clonal β‐cells MIN6‐m14, which otherwise exhibit no insulin secretory response to glucose.

Conclusions

Glutamate converted from glutamine is an essential mediator that enhances calcium signaling in the glutamine‐amplifying effect on insulin secretion. Our data also suggest that glutamine exerts a permissive effect on glucose‐induced insulin secretion.
Eo‐Variscan metamorphism in the Bohemian Massif: Thermodynamic modelling and monazite geochronology of gneisses and granulites of the Góry Sowie Massif, SW Poland
Authors: Jastrzębski Mirosław , Budzyń Bartosz , Żelaźniewicz Andrzej , Konečný Patrik , Sláma Jiří , Kozub‐Budzyń Gabriela A. , Skrzypek Etienne , Jaźwa Aleksandra
Published: January 2021

In the Variscides of central Europe, the tectonothermal history of a few units jointly assigned to the Teplá‐Barrandian/Bohemian microplate had already terminated in the Devonian. One of these is the Góry Sowie Massif (GSM; Sudetes, SW Poland), mainly consisting of variably migmatitic gneisses with subordinate granulite and peridotite inserts. The eo‐Variscan evolution of the GSM was completed in five tectonothermal stages; however, the timing and pressure–temperature (P–T) conditions of the individual stages remain unclear because isotopic ages overlap within error, and previousP–Testimates have been determined without reference to these ages. Our thermodynamic modelling and LA–ICP–MS U–Pb and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) U–Th–total Pb monazite geochronology provide new insights into the early Variscan multistage evolution of the GSM. The newP–T–time (t) data show that granulites were metamorphosed concurrently with gneisses but at different depths and temperatures. During subduction of Saxothuringia beneath Teplá‐Barrandia at 395–390 Ma, the granulites of crustal provenance experienced high‐P–high‐Tconditions (740–750°C, 17–18 kbar) and came in contact with the overlying mantle. Slab break‐off gave rise to decompression from conditions of ~17 kbar/840°C to 11–12 kbar/850–860°C, which continued at 380–370 Ma when the granulites were sheared off and extruded as tectonic slices to lower–middle crustal depths, where gneisses were undergoing metamorphism and migmatization under amphibolite facies conditions. In the gneisses, the oldest monazite date ofc. 390 Ma constrains the age of the early tectonometamorphic event D1. Two subsequent events (D2and D3, sillimanite grade) occurred under conditions of 660–680°C and 5–9 kbar at 380–375 Ma, when, in various parts of the future massif, the gneisses were (re)folded and migmatized due to heat arising from underplated mantle. Isostatic exhumation was accompanied by pegmatite intrusions (D4) at 370 Ma and subsequent orogenic collapse (D5). Concurrently, high temperature conditions (~700°C) promoted a disturbance of the U–Pb system in monazite in some granulites.
BED domain‐containing NLR from wild barley confers resistance to leaf rust
Authors: Chen Chunhong , Jost Matthias , Clark Bethany , Martin Matthew , Matny Oadi , Steffenson Brian J. , Franckowiak Jerome D. , Mascher Martin , Singh Davinder , Perovic Dragan , Richardson Terese , Periyannan Sambasivam , Lagudah Evans S. , Park Robert F. , Dracatos Peter M.
Published: January 2021

Leaf rust, caused by Puccinia hordei, is a devastating fungal disease affecting barley (Hordeum vulgare subsp. vulgare) production globally. Despite the effectiveness of genetic resistance, the deployment of single genes often compromises durability due to the emergence of virulent P. hordei races, prompting the search for new sources of resistance. Here we report on the cloning of Rph15, a resistance gene derived from barley’s wild progenitor H. vulgare subsp. spontaneum. We demonstrate using introgression mapping, mutation and complementation that the Rph15 gene from the near‐isogenic line (NIL) Bowman + Rph15 (referred to as BW719) encodes a coiled‐coil nucleotide‐binding leucine‐rich repeat (NLR) protein with an integrated Zinc finger BED (ZF‐BED) domain. A predicted KASP marker was developed and validated across a collection of Australian cultivars and a series of introgression lines in the Bowman background known to carry the Rph15 resistance. Rph16 from HS‐680, another wild barley derived leaf rust resistance gene, was previously mapped to the same genomic region on chromosome 2H and was assumed to be allelic with Rph15 based on genetic studies. Both sequence analysis, race specificity and the identification of a knockout mutant in the HS‐680 background suggest that Rph15‐ and Rph16‐mediated resistances are in fact the same and not allelic as previously thought. The cloning of Rph15 now permits efficient gene deployment and the production of resistance gene cassettes for sustained leaf rust control.
Short‐term vs. Long‐term Contracting: Empirical Assessment of the Ratchet Effect in Supply Chain Interaction
Authors: Johnsen Lennart C. , Sadrieh Abdolkarim , Voigt Guido
Published: January 2021

In laboratory experiments, we compare the performance of short‐term and long‐term contracts in a two‐period supplier–buyer dyad with asymmetric cost information. We find that buyers tend to reject offers if the payoff inequality increases from one period to the next. We coin this dynamic form of inequity aversion as “ratcheting aversion.” We show that under short‐term contracting, the buyer's ratcheting aversion limits the supplier's leeway to exploit information revelation in earlier periods because suppliers fear contract rejections in later periods. As a result, the suppliers' empirical benefit of offering long‐term contracts over short‐term contracts is significantly larger than theory predicts. Furthermore, long‐term contracts enable supply chain partners to achieve less volatile supply chain performance than short‐term contracts because the buyers' ratcheting aversion leads to more contract rejections under short‐term contracting. While normative theory predicts that suppliers should include all future informational rents of the buyers in the first‐period offer, thereby creating large payoff differences between periods, we show that it can be behaviorally optimal for the supplier to make offers that lead to more equitable payoffs between periods.
Evaluation of a flow cytometric test for G6PD‐deficient erythrocytes
Authors: Kapadia Alpeshkumar Bipinbhai , Sharma Prashant , Jain Karuna , Sachdeva Man Updesh Singh , Bose Parveen Lata , Gupta Minakshi , Khadwal Alka Rani , Bal Amanjit , Das Reena , Varma Neelam
Published: January 2021

Objective

Glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, an X‐linked recessive disorder, is the commonest erythrocytic enzymopathy worldwide. Reliable diagnosis and severity prediction in G6PD‐deficient/heterozygous females remain challenging. A recently developed flow cytometric test for G6PD deficiency has shown promise in precisely identifying deficient females. This paper presents our experiences with this test in a subtropical setting and presents a modification in flow cytometric data acquisition strategy.

Methods

The methaemoglobin reduction + ferryl Hb generation‐based flow cytometric G6PD test was compared with the screening methaemoglobin reduction test (MRT) and confirmatory G6PD enzyme activity assay (EAA) in 20 G6PD‐deficient males, 22 G6PD‐heterozygous/deficient females and 20 controls. Stained cells were also assessed for bright/dim G6PD activity under a fluorescent microscope.

Results

Flow cytometry separated and quantified %bright cells in heterozygous/deficient females, objectively classifying them into 6 normal (>85% bright cells), 14 intermediate (10‐85%) and two G6PD‐deficient (<10% bright cells). Concordance with MRT was 89% (55/62 cases) and with EAA was 77% (48/62 cases). Fluorometrically predicted violet laser excitation (405‐nm) with signal acquisition in the 425–475 nm region was a technical advancement noted for the first time in this paper.

Conclusion

Flow cytometry/fluorescence microscopy represent technically straightforward methods for the detection and quantification of G6PD‐deficient erythrocytes. Based on our results, we recommend their application as a first‐line investigation to screen females who are prescribed an oxidant drug like primaquine or dapsone.
On the Global Behavior of a Geometric PDAV Controller by Means of a Geometrically Exact Linearization
Authors: Ramp Michalis , Papadopoulos Evangelos
Published: January 2021

A complex motion encountered in a number of robotic, industrial, and defense applications is the motion of a rigid body when one of its body-fixed axes tracks a desired pointing direction while it rotates at high angular velocity around the pointing direction (PDAV); during this motion, high frequency precession/nutation oscillations arise. This work analyzes the global/local closed-loop (CL) behavior induced by a developed geometric, PDAV controller and studies the high frequency precession/nutation oscillations that characterize PDAV motions. This is done via geometrically exact linearization and via simulation techniques that amount to charting the smooth CL vector fields on the manifold. A method to quickly estimate the frequency of the precession/nutation oscillations is developed and can be used for sizing actuators. A thorough understanding of the behavior of the CL flow induced by the PDAV controller is achieved, allowing the control engineer to anticipate/have a rough estimate of the system CL response.