bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study of software development project cost, schedule and quality by outsourcing to low cost destination
Authors: Mishra Debasisha , Mahanty Biswajit
Published: April 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to find good values of onsite-offshore team strength; number of hours of communication between business users and onsite team and between onsite and offshore team so as to reduce project cost and improve schedule in a global software development (GSD) environment for software development project.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study employs system dynamics simulation approach to study software project characteristics in both co-located and distributed development environments. The authors consulted 14 experts from Indian software outsourcing industry during our model construction and validation.

Findings

– The study results show that there is a drop in overall team productivity in outsourcing environment by considering the offshore options. But the project cost can be reduced by employing the offshore team for coding and testing work only with minimal training for imparting business knowledge. The research results show that there is a potential to save project cost by being flexible in project schedule.

Research limitations/implications

– The implication of the study is that the project management team should be careful not to keep high percentage of manpower at offshore location in distributed software environment. A large offshore team can increase project cost and schedule due to higher training overhead, lower productivity and higher error proneness. In GSD, the management effort should be to keep requirement analysis and design work at onsite location and involves the offshore team in coding and testing work.

Practical implications

– The software project manager can use the model results to divide the software team between onsite and offshore location during various phases of software development in distributed environment.

Originality/value

– The study is novel as there is little attempt at finding the team distribution between onsite and offshore location in GSD environment.
Privacy in practice: professional discourse about information control in health care
Authors: Anthony Denise L. , Stablein Timothy
Published: April 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore different health care professionals’ discourse about privacy – its definition and importance in health care, and its role in their day-to-day work. Professionals’ discourse about privacy reveals how new technologies and laws challenge existing practices of information control within and between professional groups in health care, with implications not only for patient privacy, but also for the role of information control in professions more generally.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews withn=83 doctors, nurses, and health information professionals in two academic medical centers and one veteran’s administration hospital/clinic in the Northeastern USA. Interview responses were qualitatively coded for themes and patterns across groups were identified.

Findings

– The health care providers and the authors studied actively sought to uphold the protection (and control) of patient information through professional ethics and practices, as well as through the use of technologies and compliance with legal regulations. They used discourses of professionalism, as well as of law and technology, to sometimes accept and sometimes resist changes to practice required in the changing technological and legal context of health care. The authors found differences across professional groups; for some, protection of patient information is part of core professional ethics, while for others it is simply part of their occupational work, aligned with organizational interests.

Research limitations/implications

– This qualitative study of physicians, nurses, and health information professionals revealed some differences in views and practices for protecting patient information in the changing technological and legal context of health care that suggest some professional groups (doctors) may be more likely to resist such changes and others (health information professionals) will actively adopt them.

Practical implications

– New technologies and regulations are changing how information is used in health care delivery, challenging professional practices for the control of patient information that may change the value or meaning of medical records for different professional groups.

Originality/value

– Qualitative findings suggest that professional groups in health care vary in the extent of information control they have, as well in how they view such control. Some groups may be more likely to (be able to) resist changes in the professional control of information that stem from new technologies or regulatory policies. Some professionals recognize that new IT systems and regulations challenge existing social control of information in health care, with the potential to undermine (or possibly bolster) professional self-control for some but not necessarily all occupational groups.
Intellectual capital and business performance
Authors: Cleary Peter , Quinn Martin
Published: April 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper, building on previous studies of intellectual capital (IC) and business performance, is an exploratory study of how the use of cloud-based accounting/finance infrastructure affects the business performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– A survey method is used to capture perceptions of how cloud-based accounting/finance infrastructure affects business performance in SMEs. The study assumes that although accounting/finance systems are generally regarded as one element of a firm’s structural capital; the introduction of a cloud-based infrastructure in the accounting/finance area has the potential to positively impact on all three elements of a firm’s IC. Based on the survey data collected, a conceptual model was formulated to test the relationship between cloud-based accounting/finance infrastructure and business performance through the prism of firms’ IC.

Findings

– The results indicate that cloud-based accounting/finance infrastructure has a positive and statistically significant impact on human capital and relational capital. On structural capital, although positive, the relationship is not statistically significant. On the relationship between the three components of IC and business performance, all three elements are both positive and statistically significant. Furthermore, the R2 value generated for the ultimate endogenous construct in the hypothesised conceptual model, i.e. “Business Performance” is 71.3 per cent, indicating significant model explanatory power.

Research limitations/implications

– The findings suggest further more in-depth research is needed to explore in detail the effects of cloud-based accounting/finance infrastructure on both the IC and subsequent business performance of SMEs.

Originality/value

– Studies on the effects of cloud computing on accounting are scarce. This exploratory research suggests that cloud-based accounting/finance infrastructure can potentially improve the business performance of SMEs. While a valuable finding in itself, more research in this area is to be encouraged.
Effect of Co2 Laser Radiation on Surface and Dyeing Properties of Synthetic Fibres
Authors: Esteves Fátima , Alonso Helena
Published: April 2016

Chemical treatment methods are most often used nowadays for polymer surface modification; however, new technologies are now considered, especially in physical treatment methods, as laser technologies. Infra-red lasers, like CO2, appear to be advantageous due to their large beam size, high efficiency, easy operation, use of non-toxic gases and low cost. However, they have been less used than others for surface treatment of polymers, possibly due to the thermal damage effects caused by infra-red radiation. This shortcoming can be overcome by the use of pulsed lasers. CO2 pulsed laser can be considered as a non-contact and environmental-friendly treatment technique for the modification of the surface of polymers. Surface morphological modifications can be produced, resulting in changes in the physical and chemical properties of the materials, such as water absorption and dyeing. In this work, polyester and polyamide fabrics were treated with a CO2 pulsed laser and then dyed with different commercial dyes. Dyeing properties were investigated and changes in the dye ability of laser treated fibres are expected. Laser treatment created certain roughness on the fibre surface, resulting in an increase of the overall surface area and a subsequent enhancement of dye adsorption.
After T-Bills and T-Shirts: China’s Role in “High” and “Low” Fashion After the Global Economic Crisis
Authors: Clark Hazel , Milberg William
Published: April 2016

This paper analyzes the role of fashion design in Chinese industrial development in light of the structural changes brought on by the global economic crisis. The Chinese textile and apparel sector will rely less on exports to the US and EU and more on the domestic market. We analyze the capacity of Chinese fashion designers to shift their focus, from global brands to a distinctive Chinese look, with appeal at domestic Chinese markets for low, medium, and high fashion.
Evaluation of the Thermal Properties of Kermel and PBO Fibres
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Yu Weidong , Tao Yukun , Wang Xiaoling , Li Ying
Published: April 2016

High performance aramid fibers display high tenacity, modulus and temperature resistance under various end-use applications. Since no scientific research papers on the subject of Kermel fibers are found, the thermal degradation properties of Kermel and poly-p-phenylenebenzobisoxazole (PBO) fibres are therefore compared in this paper. When heated to temperatures of 100°C, 200 °C, 300°C, and 400°C for 1.5 hours, the tenacity and extension-to-break properties of PBO and Kermel fibres both decrease with temperature, but the modulus first increases, and then decreases until 300°C. By using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to observe the effect of heat treatment on these fibres, the morphologies of PBO and Kermel fibres exhibit fractures when they are ruptured and fibrils are found in their cores.
Review of Cost Estimation Techniques and Their Strategic Importance in the New Product Development Process of Textile Products
Authors: Ievtushenko Olga , Hodge George L.
Published: April 2016

Today, the strategy of innovation is perhaps the most pervasive strategy for textile companies to achieve a competitive advantage while facing severe competition in the global textile market. To be successful a company must bring new products to the market which can completely satisfy customers' expectations, as well as the company's desire to increase its profitability. Because product price is an important decisive factor which influences customers' purchase behavior, and it is generally established independently as a result of pure competition, the only way to get a higher profit margin is to reduce product costs. The product costs are committed as the product goes through new product development stages and it is therefore critical for the company to manage costs in every phase of this process. The main focus of this paper is to review current cost techniques and methods which can be successfully applied during the development of new textile products. This work builds a foundation for future research in the field of cost engineering of textile products and can be used by company's executives to become familiar with current cost estimating tools.
Fast Fabric: Development and Production Practices of Dominant Fast Fashion Retailers
Authors: Yu Jennie Peterson , Chang Jimmy , Wong Yiu Hing , Moon Ka-Leung
Published: April 2016

This paper explores the fast fashion transformation in the apparel textile industry and subsequent impacts on fabric manufacturing and the development processes. Characterized by clothing styles with shorter life cycles, faster unit production, and impulse purchasing (Bruce & Daly, 2006), the reactive fast fashion business approach captures market trends and reflects those styles in constantly changing merchandise (Fernie, 2004). Manufacturers must maximize their competitive advantages in their production strategies, business models, and activities toward achieving retailers' fast fashion requirements. Competitive suppliers along the supply chain continuously innovate and adjust production and development methods to improve delivery lead-times and prices while maintaining quality requirements (Christopher & Peck, 1999). This paper will explore the impacts and changes in fabric development processes in response to the fast fashion retail strategy.
Effects of Design Attributes on the Functional Performance of Restraint Garments for Hospital Patients
Authors: Yick K.L. , Lai K.Y. , Tsui H.M. , Kwan S.Y.
Published: April 2016

Physical restraints have been commonly used in health care settings for people with challenging behaviours. The function performance of restraint garments in relation to their design attributes is evaluated so as to optimise the protection and safety of patients. In contrast to the traditional approach of evaluating fabric properties, this study proposes a practical and systematic approach in which the effects of the design attributes of restraint garments can be evaluated based on their unique functions of mobility control, safety and practical use of restraint in medical/healthcare settings. The design and performance of traditional restraint vests are assessed and compared against two new prototypes of restraint garments in terms of the amplitude of arm movement, garment interface pressures and displacements of 3D motion coordinates by using the Novel Pliance X pressure and motion capturing system. The results reveal that design attributes affect the performance of mobility restriction and safety of restraint garments. Necklines with collar piping and the use of reinforcement seams to withstand continuous stress during struggling may lead to extremely high interface pressures at the neckline and armholes, which result in ischemia injuries and even potential strangulation.
Antimicrobial and Self-cleaning Textiles using Nanotechnology
Authors: El-Khatib E.M.
Published: April 2016

The present article review is pertaining to recent developments in antimicrobial and self-cleaning textiles using nanotechnology. Nanosized metal and metal oxide particles in single use or aided by other means are emphasized as versatile tools to achieve such properties. Mechanisms involved in effecting self-cleaning as well as antimicrobial functional characteristics to different textile material are reported. Also reported are the impacts of these characteristics on the performance of the textile products. Moreover, future research and developmental works are envisioned. This concept means we can be protecting ourselves from diseases by preventing pollution and microbial effect to our bodies. So, we not need to any drugs.
Interactive Fashion Featuring of Sound in Fashion Design
Authors: Chui Y.T. , Taylor Gail
Published: April 2016

This paper discusses recent research into the role of interactive fashion in human communication. The focus is on sound and the possibilities of how fashion can interact with sound to contribute to a new way of initiating social interaction and expressing one's emotions. Innovation for the application of sound in fashion design has been undertaken in order to explore the creative possibilities of developing a sound-fashion-human interactive system. A series of experiments have been conducted and innovative prints are designed. A fashion collection has then been designed and presented in the form of illustrations. This realizes the processes of interpreting human-sound-fashion interaction in fashion, highlights the feasibility of application to contemporary design and facilitates further analysis of its contribution towards the development of the fashion industry. The feasibility of applying interactive fashion in a collection is evaluated by using a mixture of methods, such as questionnaire survey and self evaluation. Finally, predictions about the potential influence of the experimental work on the future fashion industry are made.
An Intelligent and Interactive Carpet Role of Design in A Textile Innovation Project
Authors: Deckers Eva , Stouw Bernd v.d , Peutz Joris
Published: April 2016

This paper presents an ongoing innovation project on the development of an intelligent and interactive carpet called PeR+, short for Perception Rug Plus. This design-research project is a collaboration between an international flooring company, DESSO, and the Department of Industrial Design at the Eindhoven University of Technology. The background of the project is first introduced and the reasons for both parties to invest in this project are elaborated. From an academic perspective, the design-researchers show the feasibility and market value of their findings from a broader design-research project. In this broader design-research project, they have designed and built the PeR, an earlier iteration of the PeR+, which serves as a tangible starting point for the joint project. DESSO is interested in design driven and functional textile innovation. The project portrays the essential role that designers have in bringing traditional industries, (like the textile industries) high tech developments and user aspects together. Furthermore the project shows that there is the need for (1) keeping the project open, (2) taking on a multidisciplinary approach, and (3) applying making and doing in the process.
Enhancing The Functionality of Traditional Interior Textiles with Integration of Optical Fibers
Authors: Bai Zi-qian , Tan Jeanne , Johnston Clare , Tao Xiao-ming
Published: April 2016

The colors of traditional interior textiles cannot be changed. With the development of hi-tech textiles, interior textiles and furnishings with changeable colors are now possible with the integration of optical fibers. In this article, a study on the design of optical fiber integrated photonic interior furnishings is presented. First, the applications of polymeric optical fibers (POFs) in textiles are reviewed. It is observed that although there have been a wide variety in applications of POFs in textiles, research on the application of POFs in interior furnishing is rarely reported. The gap between technology and design handicaps the usability of photonic products. In order to design user-friendly photonic soft furnishings, a new design method is explored. Both technical and design aspects are considered in the development of photonic soft furnishings. A prototype of photonic fabrics and soft furnishings is successfully created. A usability test is undertaken to evaluate the performance of the prototype. The result of the usability test reveals that most of the subjects are satisfied with the overall performance of the prototype. They believe that photonic interior furnishings with changeable colors can enhance the environment. These usability test results are fed back to the design framework, and can provide a good source of reference for the improvement of photonic soft furnishing in the future.
Upgrading Fitness in the Production of Garments
Authors: Salehi Maryam , Shahrabi J.
Published: April 2016

This article uses a series of data mining techniques to analyze body types and introduce a new sizing chart in order to produce garments for males. A principle component analysis and hierarchical and non-hierarchical clustering approaches are used to form a new sizing chart. All variables are grouped into two main components with a principle component analysis. Agglomerative hierarchical clustering is used to determine the number of clusters, and then a k-means algorithm is applied to segment the heterogonous population to actually form the clusters. The resultant innovations in designing garments have improved both non-price and price factors, the fittings of garments on all bodies have effectively improved and fabric waste has decreased, so the main goals which include improvement in quality with more comfort and a lower price have been met.
The Sexual in Chinese Sociology: Homosexuality Studies in Contemporary China
Authors: Kong Travis S.K.
Published: April 2016

Through a meta-literature review, this paper examines the changing contours of Chinese sociology of homosexuality in contemporary China. It unfolds the different theoretical orientations and methodologies that construct the modern male homosexual subject under major socio-economic and political changes. Chinese sociology of homosexuality started in the reform era and has been dominated by Western knowledge production and the political ideology of the communist party-state. Fused with the bio-medical model and the state's modernization project in the 1980s–1990s, the sociological study adopted a functionalist and positivistic approach with survey-based methodology in the main which focused on the etiology of homosexuality. A new transnational knowledge production of sociology of homosexuality has formed since the 2000s which has shifted towards a constructivist/ post-structuralist approach and reflexive qualitative methodology. The new sociological study examines the rise of male (as well as female) homosexual identity in China, questions the hetero/homosexual binary and discusses how an individual makes sense of homosexual identity to form same-sex intimate relationships. By tracing the epistemology of homosexuality in contemporary China, this paper rethinks the dominance of the Western construction and the role of the state in shaping the knowledge of homosexuality and proposes alternative spaces for theorizing Chinese sexual identities, desires and practices.
Removing Homeownership Bias in Taxation: The Distributional Effects of Including Net Imputed Rent in Taxable Income
Authors: Figari Francesco , Paulus Alari , Sutherland Holly , Tsakloglou Panos , Verbist Gerlinde , Zantomio Francesca
Published: April 2016

The income tax systems of most countries entail a favourable treatment of homeownership, compared to rental‐occupied housing. Such ‘homeownership bias’ and its consequences for a wide range of economic outcomes have long been recognised in the economic literature. Although a removal of the homeownership bias is generally advocated on efficiency grounds, its distributional implications are often neglected, especially in a cross‐country perspective. In this paper, we aim to fill this gap by investigating the first‐order effects, in terms of distribution of income and work incentives, of removing the income tax provisions favouring homeownership. We consider six European countries – Belgium, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands and the UK – that exhibit important variation in terms of income tax treatment of homeowners. Using the multi‐country tax benefit model EUROMOD, we analyse the distributional consequences of including net imputed rent in the taxable income definition that applies in each country, together with the removal of existing special tax treatments of incomes or expenses related to the main residence; thus, we provide a measure of the homeownership bias. We implement three tax policy scenarios. In the first, imputed rent is included in the taxable income of homeowners, while at the same time existing mortgage interest tax relief schemes and taxation of cadastral incomes are abolished. In the two further revenue‐neutral scenarios, the additional tax revenue raised through the taxation of imputed rent is redistributed to taxpayers, through either a tax rate reduction or a tax exemption increase. The results show how including net imputed rent in the tax base might affect inequality in each of the countries considered. Housing taxation appears to be a promising avenue for raising additional revenues, or lightening taxation of labour, with no inequality‐increasing side effects.
Association between anthropometric measures of regional fat mass and heart rate variability in obese women
Authors: Rastović Marina , Srdić‐Galić Biljana , Barak Oto , Stokić Edita
Published: April 2016

Aim

Impaired autonomic function could be the mechanism for the development of cardiometabolic diseases in obesity. Hence, simple anthropometric measures of overall and central obesity could be screening markers for autonomic imbalance. We analysed the relationship between heart rate variability (HRV) parameters and obesity indicators.

Methods

Sixty‐three obese women underwent blood pressure, lipids and anthropometric measurements, body composition assessment, HOMA (homeostasis model assessment) index calculation and short‐term HRV analysis.

Results

The correlation between obesity indicators and HRV parameters was influenced by age. In the multiple regression model, sagittal abdominal diameter (SAD) was a significant negative predictor of lnLF/HF (logarithmically transformed ratio of low to high frequencies) and lnLFnorm, and positive predictor of HFnorm (normalized high frequencies); the significant relationship remained even after adjustment for age, HOMA, blood pressure, lipid profile, menopause, body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage (FAT). Anterior forearm skinfold showed inverse association with HRV. Correlation between waist circumference and waist‐to‐height ratio (WHtR) with lnLF/HF, as well as between anterior thigh skinfold with lnLF/HF, LFnorm (normalised low frequencies) and HFnorm was lost after further adjustments.

Conclusion

Among all anthropometric measures, SAD and anterior forearm skinfold thickness showed the highest predictive ability for HRV. Markers of lower sympathetic and higher cardiac parasympathetic activity corresponded with indicator of central obesity, while indicators of peripheral obesity showed completely opposite relationship with markers of cardiac autonomic activity.
When existence is not futile: The influence of mortality salience on the longer‐is‐better effect
Authors: McCabe Simon , Spina Melissa R. , Arndt Jamie
Published: April 2016

This research examines how death reminders impact the valuation of objects of various ages. Building from the existence bias, the longer‐is‐better effect posits that which exists is good and that which has existed for longer is better. Integrating terror management theory, it was reasoned that mortality reminders fostering a motivation to at least symbolically transcend death would lead participants to evaluate older object more positively as they signal robustness of existence. Participants were reminded of death (vs. control) and evaluated new, 20‐, or 100‐year‐old objects. Results indicated death reminders resulted in greater valuation of older objects. Findings are discussed with implications for terror management theory, the longer‐is‐better effect, ageism, materialism, and consumer behaviour.
Evaluating complementary networks of restoration plantings for landscape‐scale occurrence of temporally dynamic species
Authors: Ikin Karen , Tulloch Ayesha , Gibbons Philip , Ansell Dean , Seddon Julian , Lindenmayer David
Published: April 2016

Multibillion dollar investments in land restoration make it critical that conservation goals are achieved cost‐effectively. Approaches developed for systematic conservation planning offer opportunities to evaluate landscape‐scale, temporally dynamic biodiversity outcomes from restoration and improve on traditional approaches that focus on the most species‐rich plantings. We investigated whether it is possible to apply a complementarity‐based approach to evaluate the extent to which an existing network of restoration plantings meets representation targets. Using a case study of woodland birds of conservation concern in southeastern Australia, we compared complementarity‐based selections of plantings based on temporally dynamic species occurrences with selections based on static species occurrences and selections based on ranking plantings by species richness. The dynamic complementarity approach, which incorporated species occurrences over 5 years, resulted in higher species occurrences and proportion of targets met compared with the static complementarity approach, in which species occurrences were taken at a single point in time. For equivalent cost, the dynamic complementarity approach also always resulted in higher average minimum percent occurrence of species maintained through time and a higher proportion of the bird community meeting representation targets compared with the species‐richness approach. Plantings selected under the complementarity approaches represented the full range of planting attributes, whereas those selected under the species‐richness approach were larger in size. Our results suggest that future restoration policy should not attempt to achieve all conservation goals within individual plantings, but should instead capitalize on restoration opportunities as they arise to achieve collective value of multiple plantings across the landscape. Networks of restoration plantings with complementary attributes of age, size, vegetation structure, and landscape context lead to considerably better outcomes than conventional restoration objectives of site‐scale species richness and are crucial for allocating restoration investment wisely to reach desired conservation goals.
A Mysterious Crescent in the Heart: Ruptured Sinus of Valsalva Dissecting Interatrial Septum, Multimodality Imaging, and Full Recovery
Authors: Atıcı Adem , Demirkıran Ahmet , Karaayvaz Ekrem Bilal , Sürmen Semih , Ugurlucan Murat , Umman Berrin , Bugra Zehra
Published: April 2016

A 59‐year‐old man who was admitted to the emergency department with new and spontaneous onset of fatigue, dyspnea, and palpitations. There was neither a history of trauma, chest pain, nor infection. Transthoracic two‐ and three‐dimensional echocardiography and computer tomography demonstrated sinus of Valsalva aneurysm rupture dissecting interatrial septum and leading to a huge thrombus formation in it. The diagnosis with multimodality imaging performed within hours, and urgent surgery saved the patient's life.
Spatial variation in mortality by in‐pot predation in the Tasmanian rock lobster fishery
Authors: Briceño Felipe , León Rafael , Gardner Caleb , Hobday Alistair J. , André Jessica , Frusher Stewart D. , Pecl Gretta T.
Published: April 2016

The capture of target species using pots or traps can be affected by interactions that occur inside fishing gear. In the Tasmanian southern rock lobster (Jasus edwardsii) fishery (SRLF), predation by octopus is known to vary spatially, assumed to be in response to different environmental and ecological conditions. However, these effects are not well understood and there is concern that changes in the system, as a result of climate change, may alter the spatial distribution and extent of octopus predation. Using fishery‐dependent commercial time series data (2000–2011), we first examined how in‐pot lobster mortality by octopus predation varied across fishing areas at inter‐ and intra‐annual scales. These spatial and temporal patterns were examined using dynamic regression models (DRM) using lagged variables of lobster abundance (lobster catch per unit effort, CPUE), fishing effort (potlifts) and environmental variables (sea surface temperature, SST). This demonstrated that in‐pot mortality in most areas was strongly affected by the current lobster CPUE (indicating an instantaneous direct impact), whereas fishing effort and SST differed spatially in terms of lag selection and correlation sign. Most eastern Tasmanian areas showed a stronger effect of fishing effort rather than SST, with the opposite pattern along the west coast. We provide the first classification of SRLF stock assessment areas based on predation risk level and identify the explanatory fishing and environmental factors.
Endophytic bacteria in Miscanthus seed: implications for germination, vertical inheritance of endophytes, plant evolution and breeding
Authors: Cope‐Selby Naomi , Cookson Alan , Squance Michael , Donnison Iain , Flavell Richard , Farrar Kerrie
Published: April 2016

With growing interest in the role of microbiomes, and symbionts in particular, the aim of this study was to determine the diversity of the bacterial endophyte population within Miscanthus and to ascertain the extent of vertical transmission via the seed. A great diversity of endophytic bacteria was found in all parts of the mature plant (rhizome, root, stem and leaf), and in seedlings grown from sterilized seed grown in sterile conditions. A total of three phyla and five families of bacteria were identified as cultures compared to 19 phyla and 85 families using 16S rDNA amplification and sequencing. Not all cultured bacteria could be identified by 16S rDNA, implying that the true diversity is even greater. More bacterial diversity was identified in sterile‐grown seedlings than in all parts of the mature plant combined, 17 and 13 phyla, respectively, with 11 in common. Five phyla were present in all plant samples examined. Vertical transmission via the seed may therefore be a major source of endophytes in Miscanthus, presumably supplemented by ingress of soil bacteria as the plant grows. Bacteria identified from the mature plant were predominantly similar to known bacterial sequences in GenBank, but a small number from the stem and many from the seed were novel, potentially adapted to an in planta life cycle. Endophytic bacteria were found to form spores and other dense structures, and this provides a mechanism for long‐term survival and seed transmission. The staining of germinating seeds identified bacteria at the root tip of the emerging radicle. We propose that seed transmission of bacterial endophytes requires adaptation of both plant and microbes, plays a role in germination and has evolutionary significance and implications for future plant breeding approaches, in Miscanthus and more widely.
Practicing Collective Biography
Authors: Hawkins Roberta , Falconer Al‐Hindi Karen , Moss Pamela , Kern Leslie
Published: April 2016

Collective biography uses researchers' written memories about a set of experiences as texts for collective analysis. As a feminist approach to research, collective biography draws centrally on the idea that significant memories are critical in the constitution of the self, and maintains that in analyzing memories collectively, researchers can begin to tap into wider social processes and structures. Though rarely used in geography, collective biography could be useful in data collection and analysis for geographers. In this paper, we provide a brief history and description of collective biography. We situate collective biography in relation to life writing methods. We then identify a set of attributes that mark collective biography as a distinct research approach. In closing, we reflect on our experiences working with collective biography.
Acute ischaemic lung injury due to pulmonary vascular obstruction
Authors: Kawabata Yoshinori , Shimizu Yoshihiko , Hoshi Eishin , Ikeya Tomohiko , Kurashima Kazuyoshi , Takayanagi Noboru
Published: April 2016

Aims

We have encountered cases of a distinctive myxomatous alveolar wall thickening around pulmonary infarctions, and have termed it ‘acute ischaemic lung injury’ (AILI). In this study we determined if pulmonary infarction is the only cause of AILI and have elucidated its histological features.

Methods and results

We examined 2941 cases that underwent lobectomy, surgical lung biopsies for nodular lesions or autopsies between 1994 and 2014. Cases were divided into pulmonary infarction and non‐infarction groups. The histological features of AILI sought were lobule‐based alveolar wall thickening (myxomatous or fibrous) with epithelial metaplasia and negligible inflammation. In order to characterize AILI further, we performed immunohistochemical staining using several antibodies. Thirty‐four of 69 cases in the infarction group (mean age 57.1 years, 30 males) had AILI, whereas only one (but with vascular obstruction) of the remaining 2872 in the non‐infraction group had AILI. AILI was located around infarctions. Separation of the epithelial and endothelial basement membranes of the alveolar wall was observed in 75% of cases.

Conclusions

AILI is associated almost exclusively with lung infarction, caused presumably by vascular obstruction. We consider AILI to represent a distinct lung lesion other than pulmonary haemorrhage and infarction.
Haemoglobin disorders in Australia: where are we now and where will we be in the future?
Authors: Crighton G. , Wood E. , Scarborough R. , Ho P. J. , Bowden D.
Published: April 2016

Inherited disorders of haemoglobin (Hb), such as thalassaemia and sickle cell disease (SCD) are common and responsible for significant morbidity and mortality on a global scale. As Australia becomes increasingly ethnically diverse, their prevalence will increase. However, we lack important demographic and epidemiological data to manage these disorders and their consequences and to support affected individuals and communities. Thalassaemia and SCD are lifelong conditions. Affected individuals have reduced life expectancies, poorer quality of life and complex healthcare needs. Treatment strategies currently focus on prenatal diagnosis, red blood cell transfusion, iron chelation, management of iron‐related complications, haemopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and hydroxyurea. Currently, the only curative therapy is HSCT; however, gene therapy offers the possibility of cure and trials are currently underway. These therapies are associated with significant complications and substantial costs; there is also evidence of variation in approaches to diagnosis and care. Optimal strategies for many aspects of management are not yet defined and more research is necessary to inform clinical care and health service delivery.
Comparing Health Status, Health Trajectories and Use of Health and Social Services between Children with and without Developmental Disabilities: A Population‐based Longitudinal Study in Manitoba
Authors: Shooshtari Shahin , Brownell Marni , Mills Rosemary S. L. , Dik Natalia , Yu Dickie C. T. , Chateau Dan , Burchill Charles A. , Wetzel Monika
Published: April 2016

Background

Little information exists on health of children with developmental disabilities (DDs) in the Canadian province of Manitoba.

Method

The present authors linked 12 years of administrative data and compared health status, changes in health and access to health and social services between children with (n = 1877) and without (n = 5661) DDs living in the province, matched by age, sex and region of residence.

Results

Children with DDs were significantly more likely than children in the matched comparison group to die before the age of 17 and have a history of respiratory illness, diabetes and injury‐related hospitalizations. Children with DD also had significantly higher average number of ambulatory physician visits and higher rate of continuity of care.

Conclusions

Children with DDs had poorer health status than the matched comparison group. The health disparities experienced by children with DDs persisted over time. Further population‐based longitudinal research is needed in this area.
Relationship between Carrot Firmness with Acoustic Signal Characteristics
Authors: Liu Yang , Sun Yong‐Hai , Yang Liu , Yu Li‐Bo , Mao Qian , Hou Ju‐Min , Huang Bi‐Zhu , Liu Chao
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationships between carrot firmness with acoustic signal characteristics. The results showed that carrot firmness was positively related with the wave form index (r = 0.72, P < 0.01) and sound intensity (r = 0.81, P < 0.01) of the acoustic signals in the time domain. The overall frequency bands were distributed around 0–10,000 Hz by Hilbert‐Huang transform. The carrot firmness was negatively related with the relative energy in high‐frequency domain (r = −0.73, P < 0.01).

Practical Applications

Textural properties, defined by “firmness,” “crispness” and so on, are key quality attributes in assessing the quality and acceptability of fresh and processed food products. Texture study is one of the most important aspects of food sciences and engineering. Acoustic technology is new and convenient method and can be applicable to evaluate crisp food or crisp processed food, such as watermelon, apple, chips and so on. In this study, the relationships between carrot firmness with acoustic signal characteristics were investigated. The firmness was positively related with the wave form index, and sound intensity in the time domain was negatively related with the relative energy in high‐frequency domain. These conclusions could be useful for evaluating the carrot or other process food texture by acoustic technology.
Association between serum adalimumab concentrations and endoscopic disease activity in patients with Crohn's disease
Authors: Morita Yukihiro , Imaeda Hirotsugu , Nishida Atsushi , Inatomi Osamu , Bamba Shigeki , Sasaki Masaya , Tsujikawa Tomoyuki , Sugimoto Mitsushige , Andoh Akira
Published: April 2016

Background and Aims

The serum trough level of adalimumab (ADA) associated with mucosal healing (MH) remains unclear. Our objective was to determine the association between ADA trough levels and the endoscopic activity in Crohn's disease.

Materials and Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study including 42 patients with Crohn's disease. Endoscopic activity was assessed using the modified Rutgeerts scoring system. The primary outcome was mucosal healing, and the secondary outcomes were serum levels of C‐reactive protein and albumin.

Results

Endoscopic disease activity negatively correlated with serum ADA trough levels (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (ρ) = −0.42, P < 0.01). MH was achieved in 14 of 42 patients (33.3%). Serum ADA trough levels were significantly higher in the MH group than in the no‐MH group (ADA mean trough level, 11.7 vs 7.5 µg/mL). The proportion of patients with ADA as the first biologic was significantly higher in the MH group than in the no‐MH group (85.7% vs 53.5%, P = 0.04). The ADA trough levels that were best associated with normal C‐reactive protein and albumin levels were 5.57 µg/mL (odds ratio [OR] 16.0, specificity 0.80) and 6.95 µg/mL (OR 9.2, specificity 0.81), respectively. The ADA trough level that was best associated with MH was 7.9 µg/mL (OR 13.5, specificity 0.86). The endoscopic disease activity was significantly higher in the patients with ADA as the second biologic as compared with those with ADA as the first biologic (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Mucosal healing requires higher ADA trough levels, compared with those required to normalization of routine clinical markers.
Economic evaluation of fecal microbiota transplantation for the treatment of recurrentClostridium difficileinfection in Australia
Authors: Merlo Gregory , Graves Nicholas , Brain David , Connelly Luke B
Published: April 2016

Background and Aim

Clostridium difficileis the most common cause of hospital‐acquired diarrhea in Australia. In 2013, a randomized controlled trial demonstrated the effectiveness of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) for the treatment of recurrentClostridium difficileinfection (CDI). The aim of this study is to evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of fecal microbiota transplantation—via either nasoduodenal or colorectal delivery—compared with vancomycin for the treatment of recurrent CDI in Australia.

Methods

A Markov model was developed to compare the cost‐effectiveness of fecal microbiota transplantation compared with standard antibiotic therapy. A literature review of clinical evidence informed the structure of the model and the choice of parameter values. Clinical effectiveness was measured in terms of quality‐adjusted life years. Uncertainty in the model was explored using probabilistic sensitivity analysis.

Results

Both nasoduodenal and colorectal FMT resulted in improved quality of life and reduced cost compared with vancomycin. The incremental effectiveness of either FMT delivery compared with vancomycin was 1.2 (95% CI: 0.1, 2.3) quality‐adjusted life years, or 1.4 (95% CI: 0.4, 2.4) life years saved. Treatment with vancomycin resulted in an increased cost of AU$4094 (95% CI: AU$26, AU$8161) compared with nasoduodenal delivery of FMT and AU$4045 (95% CI: −AU$33, AU$8124) compared with colorectal delivery. The mean difference in cost between colorectal and nasoduodenal FMT was not significant.

Conclusions

If FMT, rather than vancomycin, became standard care for recurrent CDI in Australia, the estimated national healthcare savings would be over AU$4000 per treated person, with a substantial increase in quality of life.
Free will perceptions and psychiatric symptoms in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia
Authors: Weisman de Mamani A. , Gurak K. , Maura J. , Martinez de Andino A. , Weintraub M. J. , Mejia M.
Published: April 2016

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

Some research suggests that holding a free will perspective may offer mental health and physical health benefits.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge?

This study is the first to examine links between free will perceptions and psychiatric symptoms in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia.

What are the implications for practice?

Study results suggest that helping people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia to recognize situations where they do have some freedom of choice over their actions and emotional reactions (free will) may assist them in improving their experiences and better managing their symptoms.

Introduction

Some research indicates that having a strong sense that one possesses free will may be associated with better psychological and physical health. This study is the first to examine the relationship between free will perceptions and psychiatric symptoms in patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia.

Method

Thirty‐two participants were interviewed using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale to assess symptom severity and the Free Will Subscale of the Free Will and Determinism Scale to assess free will perceptions.

Results

As hypothesized, a negative association was found between free will perceptions and total symptom severity, though it appears that this was mainly accounted for by positive symptoms. A content analysis was also conducted to qualitatively examine how patients conceptualize the construct of free will and its role in coping with their own mental illness.

Discussion

Study results suggest that holding a free will perspective may mitigate psychiatric symptoms in patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. Thus, psychiatric nurses and other mental health clinicians may improve current treatments for schizophrenia by helping patients recognize situations where they do have some freedom of choice over their actions and emotional reactions (free will) to stressful life events.
Does a Nation's Religious Composition Affect Generalized Trust? The Role of Religious Heterogeneity and the Percent Religious
Authors: Olson Daniel V. A. , Li Miao
Published: April 2016

Is religion more of an integrative or a divisive force in contemporary societies? We use multilevel analyses of World Values Survey data from 77,409 individuals in 69 countries to examine how both the percent of the population that is religious and the religious heterogeneity of a country are related to generalized social trust, the willingness of individuals to trust “most people.” When we first examine the main effects of the percent religious and religious heterogeneity we find no evidence that either variable is related to trust in the ways predicted by major theories. However, the combination of these two variables has a huge negative relationship with trust. Countries that are both highly religious and religiously heterogeneous (diverse) have, on average, levels of trust that are only half the average levels of countries with other combinations of these two variables. The results have important implications for understanding the role of religion in modern societies.