bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organization of the TC and TE cellular T‐DNA regions in Nicotiana otophora and functional analysis of three diverged TE‐6b genes
Authors: Chen Ke , Dorlhac de Borne François , Sierro Nicolas , Ivanov Nikolai V. , Alouia Malek , Koechler Sandrine , Otten Léon
Published: February 2018

Nicotiana otophora contains Agrobacterium‐derived T‐DNA sequences introduced by horizontal gene transfer (Chen et al., 2014). Sixty‐nine contigs were assembled into four different cellular T‐DNAs (cT‐DNAs) totalling 83 kb. TC and TE result from two successive transformation events, each followed by duplication, yielding two TC and two TE inserts. TC is also found in other Nicotiana species, whereas TE is unique to N. otophora. Both cT‐DNA regions are partially duplicated inverted repeats. Analysis of the cT‐DNA divergence patterns allowed reconstruction of the evolution of the TC and TE regions. TC and TE carry 10 intact open reading frames. Three of these are TE‐6b genes, derived from a single 6b gene carried by the Agrobacterium strain which inserted TE in the N. otophora ancestor. 6b genes have so far only been found in Agrobacterium tumefaciens or Agrobacterium vitis T‐DNAs and strongly modify plant growth (Chen and Otten, 2016). The TE‐6b genes were expressed in Nicotiana tabacum under the constitutive 2 × 35S promoter. TE‐1‐6b‐R and TE‐2‐6b led to shorter plants, dark‐green leaves, a strong increase in leaf vein development and modified petiole wings. TE‐1‐6b‐L expression led to a similar phenotype, but in addition leaves show outgrowths at the margins, flowers were modified and plants became viviparous, i.e. embryos germinated in the capsules at an early stage of their development. Embryos could be rescued by culture in vitro. The TE‐6b phenotypes are very different from the earlier described 6b phenotypes and could provide new insight into the mode of action of the 6b genes.
Benefits Management as a Path for Project Management Offices Contribute to Programs and Influence on Project Performance
Authors: Carvalho Vaniele Guimaraes , Barbalho Sanderson César Macêdo , Silva Gladston Luiz da , Toledo José Carlos de
Published: February 2018

This paper analyses the relationships between the Project Management Offices (PMOs) functions and the results of performance indicators of product development projects, considering the triple constraint: time, cost, quality. A survey was conducted on a sample of 35 Brazilian manufacturing companies, which have a Product Development Process and a support of PMO for product projects. Although the survey´s results pointed out the presence of Project Management Offices on companies’ structure, it does not guarantee the success on project´s triple constraints, the benefits management was a PMO function correlated to cost performance. It suggests that if a company structure projects as programs, an effort to guarantee the focus on benefits rather than only on project’s results can drive good performance on costs.
Book Review - Handbook of Innovation and Standards
Authors: Buheji Mohamed
Published: February 2018

We are living in era that have a high potential for being ready towards effective transformation towards Innovation Economy. The Handbook of Hawkins and his team (2017) explores the potential relations between standards and innovation and try to understand where both coincides to create more sustained economy. Both the editors and the authors in different chapters try to see first how standards function and then try to see how innovation might benefit from this comparatively. Then some of the chapters try to see whether standards have some evolutionary economics built in them, similar to the environmental standard ISO 14000. The handbook is considered to be one of the early attempts to build a holistic view of this relation through a strong literature review.
Modeling, Estimation, and Control of HCCI Engine With In-Cylinder Pressure Sensing
Authors: Nam Youngsun , Kim Jaehyun , Bahk Cheongyo , Jang Inyoung , Ho Song Han , Lee Dongjun
Published: February 2018

We propose a novel modeling, estimation, and control framework for homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engines, which, by utilizing direct in-cylinder pressure sensing, can detect, and react to, the wide spectrum of combustion, thereby allowing for the prevention or even recovery from partial burn or misfire, while significantly improving the stability of transition control. For this, we first develop a discrete-time cyclic control-oriented model of the HCCI process, for which we completely replace the Arrhenius integral by quantities based on the in-cylinder pressure sensing. We then propose a nonlinear state feedback control based on the exact feedback linearization and the switching linear quadratic regulators (LQRs), and also present how the state and other quantities necessary for this control can be estimated by using the in-cylinder pressure sensing. We also provide a new modeling approach for heat transfer, which, through principal component analysis (PCA), can systematically allow us to choose most significant variables, thereby substantially improving control and estimation precision. Simulation studies using a continuous-time detailed HCCI engine model built on matlab/simulink and Cantera Toolbox are also performed to demonstrate the efficacy of our proposed framework for the scenarios of engine load transition and partial burn recovery with the enlarged regions-of-attraction with less stringent actuation limitation also shown.
Measurement and Validation of Exercise-Induced Fatigue Through Inertial Motion Analysis
Authors: Ameli Sina , Naghdy Fazel , Stirling David , Naghdy Golshah , Aghmesheh Morteza , Anthony Ryan , McLennan Peter , Peoples Gregory
Published: February 2018

Exercise-induced fatigue evolves from the initiation of physical work. Nonetheless, the development of an objective method for detecting fatigue based on variation in ambulatory motion parameters measured during exercise is yet to be explored. In this study, the ambulatory motion parameters consisting of kinematic parameters of 23 body segments in addition to muscle tissue oxygen saturation (SmO2), heart rate, and vertical work of eight healthy male subjects during stair climbing tests (SCT) were measured before and after a fatigue protocol utilizing Wingate cycling test. The impacts of fatigue on ambulatory motion and postural behaviors were analyzed using an unsupervised machine learning method classifying angular joint motions. The average of total distance traveled by subjects and the overall body postural behavior showed about 25% decline and 90% variation after fatigue protocol, respectively. Also, higher relative desaturation in SCT1 −64.0 (1.1) compared SCT2 −54.8 (1.1) was measured. Measurements of differences in motion postural states and metabolic indexes after exercises-induced fatigue proved a strong correlation which validates the advantages of inertial motion analysis method for fatigue assessment.
Identification of Canonical Basis of Screw Systems Using General-Special Decomposition
Authors: Chen Genliang , Wang Hao , Lin Zhongqin , Lai Xinmin
Published: February 2018

The theory of screws plays a fundamental role in the field of mechanisms and robotics. Based on the rank-one decomposition of positive semidefinite (PSD) matrices, this paper presents a new algorithm to identify the canonical basis of high-order screw systems. Using the proposed approach, a screw system can be decomposed into the direct sum of two subsystems, which are referred to as the general and special subsystems, respectively. By a particular choice of the general subsystem, the canonical basis of the original system can be obtained by the direct combination of the subsystems' principal elements. In the proposed decomposition, not only the canonical form of the screw system but also the corresponding distribution of all those possible base elements can be determined in a straightforward manner.
Image-Based Rapid Measurements of Temperature-Dependent Thermal Conductivities
Authors: Hou Sichao , Su Ming
Published: February 2018

This study establishes an image-based approach to determine the thermal conductivity of a metal material as a function of temperature using isotherm movement. The thermal conductivity within a range of temperature can be derived from a combined experimental and theoretical study based on Wiedemann–Franz law. A cubic relation between heating time and distance from heat source has been observed, proved, and used to determine the thermal conductivity at different temperature. The temporal and spatial information provided by infrared imaging allow continuous temperature dependence of thermal conductivity to be derived with high accuracy. This method has the potential to determine thermal conductivities of multiple samples at high throughput, and to derive thermal conductivity along different crystal orientation in a thermally anisotropic system.
Near-Field Radiative Heat Transfer Between Graphene/Silicon Carbide Multilayers
Authors: Zhong Liang-Ying , Zhao Qi-Mei , Wang Tong-Biao , Yu Tian-Bao , Liao Qing-Hua , Liu Nian-Hua
Published: February 2018

Hyperbolic metamaterial (HMM) alternately stacked by graphene and silicon carbide (SiC) is proposed to theoretically study near-field radiative heat transfer. Heat transfer coefficients (HTCs) are calculated using the effective medium theory (EMT). We observe that HMMs can exhibit better heat transfer characteristic than graphene-covered SiC bulks when appropriate SiC thickness and chemical potentials of graphene are selected. Transfer matrix method (TMM) is also employed to calculate HTC between HMMs with thicker SiC, given the invalidity of EMT in this case. We deduce that with increasing SiC thickness, HTC first increases rapidly and then decreases slowly when it reaches maximum value. HTC is high for graphene with small chemical potential. Results may benefit applications of thermophotovoltaic devices.
Partial Slip Texture Slider and Journal Bearing Lubricated With Newtonian Fluids: A Review
Authors: Senatore A. , Rao T. V. V. L. N.
Published: February 2018

Partial slip texture surfaces have proven to be effective to improve load capacity and reduce coefficient of friction in slider and journal bearings. By controlling the partial slip surface texture properties, bearing with desired performance can be designed. It is of consequent interest to study the lubrication of slider and journal bearing systems taking into consideration design of partial slip texture surfaces. This paper aims at covering several investigation works related to slider and journal bearing lubricated with Newtonian fluids focusing on partial slip texture influence on bearing performance characteristics.
Friction Property of MoS2 Coatings Deposited on the Chemical-Etched Surface of Al–Si Alloy Cylinder Liner
Authors: Li Cheng-Di , Wang Wei-Wei , Jin Mei , Shen Yan , Xu Jiu-Jun
Published: February 2018

To enhance the friction property of Al–Si alloy cylinder liner in running-in period, MoS2 coatings were electrodeposited on the chemical-etched surface of cylinder liner. The friction coefficient decreased by 15% comparing with the original honed surface, indicating the better friction property. This is because the synergistic action between solid lubricant and etched surface. MoS2 coatings prevent the direct contact between silicon particles and piston ring during friction. At top dead center, the oil film was thinnest and even was broken during the reciprocate friction. When oil film was invalidated, MoS2 coatings undertook lubrication. Then, MoS2 coatings were depleted, and advantage of etched surface became apparent.
The Effects of Microdimple Texture on the Friction and Thermal Behavior of a Point Contact
Authors: Li S. , Parmar U.
Published: February 2018

This study investigates the effects of the microdimple texture on the friction and surface temperature performances of a ball-on-disk contact, operating under the speed and load ranges that cover typical gearing applications. Circular-shaped microdimple arrays with different dimple center distances and dimple depths are implemented on the ball surface to quantify the impacts of these two parameters on the friction coefficient and the maximum ball surface temperature. In addition, the contacts of three surface texture combinations, namely microdimpled and polished ball surface versus polished disk surface, polished ball surface versus polished disk surface, and ground ball surface versus ground disk surface, are compared to demonstrate any beneficial or detrimental effect of microdimples in heavily loaded high-speed applications. This study adopts a thermal mixed EHL point contact model, whose capability and accuracy have been well demonstrated by comparing to the experimental measurements, to quantify the deterministic tribological behavior within the contact, allowing the exploration of the underlying mechanism that governs the role of microdimples in the elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL).
Adhesive Bond Imaging by Noncontact Measurements With Single-Sided Access
Authors: Nakao Shogo , Hayashi Takahiro
Published: February 2018

Adhesive bonding, an effective joining technique for platelike structures in aircraft and automobiles, requires postbond inspection preferably with noncontact and single-sided access. The present study discusses the application of an imaging technique with a scanning laser source (SLS) to evaluate adhesive bonds in a platelike structure. When a laser Doppler vibrometer (LDV) is used as a receiver, the SLS technique realizes noncontact measurements with single-sided access. The imaging experiments that used narrowband burst waves and broadband chirp waves indicated that the imaging technique is appropriately applied to adhesive bonds and that the use of broadband chirp waves provides clearer images and reduces spurious images due to resonance. Furthermore, images of adhesive bonds were clearly obtained for a complex plate structure that consisted of a top-hat section and a flat plate, and this demonstrates that the imaging technique can be widely applied to evaluate various adhesive bonds.
Automated In-Process Cure Monitoring of Composite Laminates Using a Guided Wave-Based System With High-Temperature Piezoelectric Transducers
Authors: Hudson Tyler B. , Yuan Fuh-Gwo
Published: February 2018

An in-process cure monitoring technique based on “guided wave” concept for carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites was developed. Key parameters including physical properties (viscosity and degree of cure) and state transitions (gelation and vitrification) during the cure cycle were clearly identified experimentally from the amplitude and group velocity of guided waves, validated via the semi-empirical cure process modeling software RAVEN. Using the newly developed cure monitoring system, an array of high-temperature piezoelectric transducers acting as an actuator and sensors were employed to excite and sense guided wave signals, in terms of voltage, through unidirectional composite panels fabricated from Hexcel® IM7/8552 prepreg during cure in an oven. Average normalized peak voltage, which pertains to the wave amplitude, was selected as a metric to describe the guided waves phenomena throughout the entire cure cycle. During the transition from rubbery to glassy state, the group velocity of the guided waves was investigated for connection with degree of cure, Tg, and mechanical properties. This work demonstrated the feasibility of in-process cure monitoring and continued progress toward a closed-loop process control to maximize composite part quality and consistency.
A Comparative Study on Equivalent Modeling of Rough Surfaces Contact
Authors: Shi Xi , Zou Yunwu
Published: February 2018

Greenwood and Tripp (GT model) have proposed that the contact analysis of two rough surfaces (two-rough-surface contact model) could be considered as an equivalent rough surface in contact with a rigid flat (single-rough-surface contact model). In this paper, by virtue of finite element method, the normal contact analysis was performed with two-rough-surface contact model and its equivalent single-rough-surface contact model, and it was verified that the resultant normal contact forces are in good agreement with each other for these two models, meanwhile the equivalent stress is a little bit lower for two-rough-surface model due to shoulder-to-shoulder contact. In contrast, the sliding contact analysis was also performed with these two models, respectively, and the results show a great disparity with each other in all contact parameters due to the strong plowing effects in two-rough-surface model. Therefore, this equivalence approach proposed by Greenwood and Tripp is only valid for normal contact of rough surfaces and not valid for sliding contact.
Development and piloting of a survey to estimate the frequency and nature of potentially harmful preventable problems in primary care from a UK patient’s perspective
Authors: Stocks Susan J , Donnelly Ailsa , Esmail Aneez , Beresford Joanne , Gamble Carolyn , Luty Sarah , Deacon Richard , Danczak Avril , Mann Nicola , Townsend David , Ashley James , Bowie Paul , Campbell Stephen M
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To design and pilot a survey to be used at the population level to estimate the frequency of patient-perceived potentially harmful preventable problems occurring in UK primary care. To explore the nature of the problems, patient-suggested strategies for prevention and opinions of clinicians and the public regarding the potential for harm.

Design

A survey was codesigned by three members of the public and one researcher and piloted through public and patient involvement and engagement networks.

Setting

Self-selected sample of the UK population.

Participants

977 members of the public accessed the online survey during October and November 2015.

Primary outcome measures

Respondent feedback about the ease of completion of the survey, quality of responses in terms of review by clinicians and members of the public, preliminary estimates of the frequency and nature of patient-perceived potentially harmful problems occurring in the last 12 months.

Results

638 (65%) members of the public completed the survey and few respondents reported any difficulty in understanding or completing the survey. 132 (21%) respondents reported experiencing a potentially harmful preventable problem during the past 12 months and 108 (82%) of these respondents provided a description that was adequate for at least one clinician to form an opinion about the potentially harmful problem. Respondents were older than the UK generally, more likely to work or volunteer in the healthcare sector and tended to use primary care more frequently but their confidence and trust in their own general practitioner (GP) was similar to that of the UK population as measured by the annual English GP patient survey.

Conclusions

The survey was acceptable to patients and mostly provided data of sufficient quality for review by clinicians and members of the public. It is now ready to use at a population level to estimate the frequency and nature of potentially harmful preventable problems in primary care from a patient’s perspective.
Perceived bullying among Norwegian doctors in 1993, 2004 and 2014–2015: a study based on cross-sectional and repeated surveys
Authors: Rosta Judith , Aasland Olaf G
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To examine 12-month prevalence of perceived bullying at work for doctors in different job categories and medical disciplines in 1993, 2004 and 2014–2015, and personality traits, work-related and health-related factors associated with perceived workplace bullying.

Design

Cross-sectional questionnaire surveys in 1993, 2004 and 2014–2015 where the 2004 and the 2012–2015 samples are partly overlapping.

Setting

Norway.

Participants

Response rates were 72.8% (2628/3608) in 1993, 67% (1004/1499) in 2004 and 78.2% (1261/1612) in 2014–2015. 485 doctors responded both in 2004 and 2014–2015.

Outcome measure

Perceived bullying at work from colleagues or superiors at least a few times a month during the last year.

Results

Between the samples from 1993, 2004 and 2014–2015, there were no significant differences in the prevalence of perceived bullying at work. More senior hospital doctors and surgeons reported being bullied. Doctors with higher scores on the personality trait neuroticism were more likely to perceive bullying, as were female doctors, doctors with poor job satisfaction and poor self-rated health.

Conclusions

The fraction of doctors who experienced bullying at work was stable over a 20-year period. Psychological, psychosocial and cultural factors are predictors of perceived bullying.
What happens to patient experience when you want to see a doctor and you get to speak to a nurse? Observational study using data from the English General Practice Patient Survey
Authors: Paddison Charlotte A M , Abel Gary A , Burt Jenni , Campbell John L , Elliott Marc N , Lattimer Valerie , Roland Martin
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To examine patient consultation preferences for seeing or speaking to a general practitioner (GP) or nurse; to estimate associations between patient-reported experiences and the type of consultation patients actually received (phone or face-to-face, GP or nurse).

Design

Secondary analysis of data from the 2013 to 2014 General Practice Patient Survey.

Setting and participants

870 085 patients from 8005 English general practices.

Outcomes

Patient ratings of communication and ‘trust and confidence’ with the clinician they saw.

Results

77.7% of patients reported wanting to see or speak to a GP, while 14.5% reported asking to see or speak to a nurse the last time they tried to make an appointment (weighted percentages). Being unable to see or speak to the practitioner type of the patients’ choice was associated with lower ratings of trust and confidence and patient-rated communication. Smaller differences were found if patients wanted a face-to-face consultation and received a phone consultation instead. The greatest difference was for patients who asked to see a GP and instead spoke to a nurse for whom the adjusted mean difference in confidence and trust compared with those who wanted to see a nurse and did see a nurse was −15.8 points (95% CI −17.6 to −14.0) for confidence and trust in the practitioner and −10.5 points (95% CI −11.7 to −9.3) for net communication score, both on a 0–100 scale.

Conclusions

Patients’ evaluation of their care is worse if they do not receive the type of consultation they expect, especially if they prefer a doctor but are unable to see one. New models of care should consider the potential unintended consequences for patient experience of the widespread introduction of multidisciplinary teams in general practice.
Developing a core outcome set for fistulising perianal Crohn’s disease
Authors: Sahnan Kapil , Tozer Phil J , Adegbola Samuel O , Lee Matthew J , Heywood Nick , McNair Angus G K , Hind Daniel , Yassin Nuha , Lobo Alan J , Brown Steven R , Sebastian Shaji , Phillips Robin K S , Lung Phillip F C , Faiz Omar D , Crook Kay , Blackwell Sue , Verjee Azmina , Hart Ailsa L , Fearnhead Nicola S
Published: February 2018

Objective

Lack of standardised outcomes hampers effective analysis and comparison of data when comparing treatments in fistulising perianal Crohn’s disease (pCD). Development of a standardised set of outcomes would resolve these issues. This study provides the definitive core outcome set (COS) for fistulising pCD.

Design

Candidate outcomes were generated through a systematic review and patient interviews. Consensus was established via a three-round Delphi process using a 9-point Likert scale based on how important they felt it was in determining treatment success culminating in a final consensus meeting. Stakeholders were recruited nationally and grouped into three panels (surgeons and radiologists, gastroenterologists and IBD specialist nurses, and patients). Participants received feedback from their panel (in the second round) and all participants (in the third round) to allow refinement of their scores.

Results

A total of 295 outcomes were identified from systematic reviews and interviews that were categorised into 92 domains. 187 stakeholders (response rate 78.5%) prioritised 49 outcomes through a three-round Delphi study. The final consensus meeting of 41 experts and patients generated agreement on an eight domain COS. The COS comprised three patient-reported outcome domains (quality of life, incontinence and a combined score of patient priorities) and five clinician-reported outcome domains (perianal disease activity, development of new perianal abscess/sepsis, new/recurrent fistula, unplanned surgery and faecal diversion).

Conclusion

A fistulising pCD COS has been produced by all key stakeholders. Application of the COS will reduce heterogeneity in outcome reporting, thereby facilitating more meaningful comparisons between treatments, data synthesis and ultimately benefit patient care.
Gastrointestinal ultrasound in inflammatory bowel disease: an underused resource with potential paradigm-changing application
Authors: Bryant Robert Venning , Friedman Antony B , Wright Emily Kate , Taylor Kirstin M , Begun Jakob , Maconi Giovanni , Maaser Christian , Novak Kerri L , Kucharzik Torsten , Atkinson Nathan S S , Asthana Anil , Gibson Peter R
Published: February 2018

Evolution of treatment targets in IBD has increased the need for objective monitoring of disease activity to guide therapeutic strategy. Although mucosal healing is the current target of therapy in IBD, endoscopy is invasive, expensive and unappealing to patients. GI ultrasound (GIUS) represents a non-invasive modality to assess disease activity in IBD. It is accurate, cost-effective and reproducible. GIUS can be performed at the point of care without specific patient preparation so as to facilitate clinical decision-making. As compared with ileocolonoscopy and other imaging modalities (CT and MRI), GIUS is accurate in diagnosing IBD, detecting complications of disease including fistulae, strictures and abscesses, monitoring disease activity and detecting postoperative disease recurrence. International groups increasingly recognise GIUS as a valuable tool with paradigm-changing application in the management of IBD; however, uptake outside parts of continental Europe has been slow and GIUS is underused in many countries. The aim of this review is to present a pragmatic guide to the positioning of GIUS in IBD clinical practice, providing evidence for use, algorithms for integration into practice, training pathways and a strategic implementation framework.
Normocalcaemic primary hyperparathyroidism: a pragmatic approach
Authors: Babwah Feaz , Buch Harit N
Published: February 2018

It is well recognised that over the past three to four decades the incidence of asymptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism has increased significantly. However, more recently this pattern has further evolved into a presentation with normocalcaemia and raised parathyroid hormone (PTH) level without the presence of a recognised stimulus for its rise, in the form of vitamin D deficiency or renal impairment. A diagnostic label of normocalcaemic hyperparathyroidism (NPHPT) has been given to this phenotype and in most such individuals, the initial PTH measurement is driven by the presence of metabolic bone disease. The reported prevalence, degree of end-organ involvement and the rate of progression vary considerably and are related to patients studied and the biochemical cut-offs used in its definition. A majority of patients are diagnosed during assessment of metabolic bone disease of varying degrees. Once the diagnosis is confirmed by excluding confounding factors, the patient should undergo full assessment of end-organ involvement, which is the main determinant of further therapeutic decisions. Surgery, with prior localisation, is considered in patients with significant end-organ involvement in keeping with the guidance for hypercalcaemic patients. If a patient does not meet these criteria, annual clinical and biochemical surveillance is recommended to identify progression to hypercalcaemia or worsening end-organ involvement. It is less clear if patients identified during ‘routine’ requests for evaluation of unrelated symptoms require similar close monitoring. In conclusion, in this review on NPHPT we focus on its definition, planning of further investigations, selection of patients for intervention and devising an appropriate follow-up strategy.
Association between shiftwork and the risk of colorectal cancer in females: a population-based case–control study
Authors: Walasa Wa Mwenga , Carey Renee N , Si Si , Fritschi Lin , Heyworth Jane S , Fernandez Renae C , Boyle Terry
Published: February 2018

Objective

Research indicates that shiftwork may be associated with increased risks of adverse health outcomes, including some cancers. However, the evidence of an association between shiftwork and colorectal cancer risk is limited and inconclusive. Further, while several possible pathways through which shiftwork might result in cancer have been proposed, few studies have taken these factors into account. We investigated the association between two types of shiftwork (graveyard shiftwork and early-morning shiftwork) and six mechanistic shiftwork variables (including light at night and phase shift) and the risk of colorectal cancer among females in an Australian population-based case–control study. Graveyard shiftwork was the primary exposure of interest.

Methods

Participants (350 cases and 410 controls) completed a lifetime occupational history, and exposure to each of the eight shiftwork variables was assigned to participants through a job exposure matrix. We used logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between different shiftwork variables and the risk of colorectal cancer, adjusting for potential demographic, lifestyle and medical confounders.

Results

Working in an occupation involving long-term exposure (>7.5 years) to graveyard shiftwork was not associated with colorectal cancer risk (adjusted OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.58). Similarly, no increased risks of colorectal cancer were seen for any of the other seven shiftwork variables examined.

Conclusions

No evidence of an increased risk of colorectal cancer among females who had worked in occupations involving shiftwork was observed in this study.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and the risk of 12 cardiovascular diseases: a population-based study using UK primary care data
Authors: Morgan Ann D , Rothnie Kieran J , Bhaskaran Krishnan , Smeeth Liam , Quint Jennifer K
Published: February 2018

Risks for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) other than myocardial infarction and stroke in the general COPD population are not well quantified. We used a matched cohort study design and Cox regression to estimate relative risks for 12 separate CVDs in a large population-based cohort of patients with COPD over a 12-year period. Associations between COPD and individual CVDs were heterogeneous, with the highest relative risks observed for heart failure and diseases of the arterial circulation (in excess of 2.5 for those aged 64–75 years). Relative risks declined with increasing age but for most CVD outcomes remained unchanged over the study period.
Association of MSTN gene polymorphism (C354T) with performance traits in raccoon dogs
Authors: Nisztuk Sylwia , Ślaska Brygida , Zięba Grzegorz , Rozempolska-Rucińska Iwona
Published: February 2018

The aim of the study was to identify polymorphisms within nuclear DNA genes and determine their association with the performance traits of farmed raccoon dogs. The study involved 354 animals and their breeding documentation data. Myostatin (MSTN), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), and growth hormone (GHR) genes were amplified, sequenced, and subjected to bioinformatics and statistical analysis. Estimation of variance components was performed with the residual maximum likelihood (REML) method, and best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) of the breeding values was carried out. The predictors of the traits of direct additive, maternal additive, and random-specific maternal environmental effects were analysed. Within the nucleotide sequences of the analysed genes, one silent single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) was identified in exon 1 of the MSTN gene. The analysis of the variance of the fixed-specific maternal environmental effect revealed statistically significant differences in the body weight among raccoon dogs with alternative polymorphisms. The mean effects of the estimators of polymorphism addition and dominance measured by MSTN gene regression had mostly a significant impact on the level of the traits estimated in animals. There was statistically significant association of the polymorphism in the MSTN gene with the body weight in raccoon dogs, which validates selection thereof as a candidate gene for this economically most important performance trait of raccoon dogs.
Enhanced nitrogen management strategies for winter wheat production in the Canadian prairies
Authors: Beres B.L. , Graf R.J. , Irvine R.B. , O’Donovan J.T. , Harker K.N. , Johnson E.N. , Brandt S. , Hao X. , Thomas B.W. , Turkington T.K. , Stevenson F.C.
Published: February 2018

To address knowledge gaps around enhanced efficiency urea fertilizer efficacy for nitrogen (N) management, a study was designed to improve integrated nutrient management systems for western Canadian winter wheat producers. Three factors were included in Experiment 1: (i) urea type [urea, urea + urease inhibitor—Agrotain®; urea + urease and nitrification inhibitor—SuperU®, polymer-coated urea—Environmentally Smart Nitrogen®(ESN®), and urea ammonium nitrate (UAN)], (ii) application method (side-band vs. spring-broadcast vs. 50% side-band: 50% spring-broadcast), and (iii) cultivar (AC Radiant hard red winter wheat vs. CDC Ptarmigan soft white winter wheat). The Agrotain®and CDC Ptarmigan treatments were removed in Experiment 2 to allow for additional application methods: (i) fall side-band, (ii) 50% side-band — 50% late fall broadcast, (iii) 50% side-band — 50% early spring broadcast, (iv) 50% side-band — 50% mid-spring broadcast, and (v) 50% side-band — 50% late spring broadcast. CDC Ptarmigan produced superior grain yield and N utilization over AC Radiant. Grain yield and protein content were influenced by N form and application method. Split applications of N usually provided the maximum yield and protein, particularly with Agrotain®or SuperU®. An exception to the poor fall-application results was the SuperU®treatments, which produced similar yield to the highest-yielding treatments. The results suggest that split applications of N might be most efficient for yield and protein optimization when combined with an enhanced efficiency urea product, particularly with urease or urease + nitrification inhibitors, and if the majority of N is applied in spring.
Attempts to rescue yield loss in continuous canola with agronomic inputs
Authors: Harker K.N. , Hartman M.D. , Tidemann B.D. , O’Donovan J.T. , Turkington T.K. , Lupwayi N.Z. , Smith E.G. , Mohr R.M.
Published: February 2018

Recent canola acreage and production in western Canada have reached record high levels. Field experiments were conducted from 2014 to 2016 on land previously seeded to continuous canola for 6 yr at three Canadian Prairie sites. We determined that more intensive seed inputs, fertilizer, fungicide, tillage, or chaff removal could increase continuous canola yields compared with a “standard practice” (SP) treatment or match yields compared with canola in rotation. Recommended or 50% higher fertility levels alone or in combination with a higher seeding rate, tillage, chaff removal, or additional fungicide were applied to the same plots in three successive years to determine effects after 1, 2, and 3 yr of treatment imposition. In continuous canola, blackleg incidence and severity were both reduced by fungicide treatment. In rotations where canola was preceded by wheat, blackleg incidence and severity were much lower than in continuous canola. None of the treatments improved continuous canola yields compared with SP after a single year of treatment imposition. In subsequent years, canola yield increases compared with SP usually occurred as a result of additional fertilizer, seed, or fungicide. In the final year, canola yield loss due to continuous canola was largely rescued by additional seed and fertilizer. Without additional inputs, and when preceded by a different crop, canola yields averaged 11% greater than the average of all continuous canola treatments. High fertility regimes generally reduced oil content and increased protein content relative to standard fertility in continuous canola or relative to canola preceded by wheat.
Reducing Media-Induced Mass Killings: Lessons From Suicide Prevention
Authors: Meindl James N. , Ivy Jonathan W.
Published: February 2018

A mass killing is a complex behavior that is the product of a range of variables. Recent research suggests one such variable by showing that when a mass killing occurs there is a heightened chance of another occurring in the near future. This increase in probability has been referred to as contagion and one possible mechanism for contagion may be generalized imitation. Generalized imitation requires the presence of some model to prompt imitation, and we suggest media reporting methods as a prominent model inspiring future mass killings. This article analyzes mass killings as the culmination of a sequence of thoughts and actions that are influenced by environmental events including media reports of mass killings. We then evaluate media reporting guidelines and research related to the prevention of suicide and other imitational behaviors to identify reactive and proactive strategies that could minimize the likelihood of one mass killing inducing another.
Dysbiotic Biofilms Deregulate the Periodontal Inflammatory Response
Authors: Herrero E.R. , Fernandes S. , Verspecht T. , Ugarte-Berzal E. , Boon N. , Proost P. , Bernaerts K. , Quirynen M. , Teughels W.
Published: February 2018

Periodontal diseases originate from a dysbiosis within the oral microbiota, which is associated with a deregulation of the host immune response. Although little is known about the initiation of dysbiosis, it has been shown that H2O2 production is one of the main mechanisms by which some commensal bacteria suppress the outgrowth of pathobionts. Current models emphasize the critical nature of complex microbial biofilms that form unique microbial ecologies and of their change during transition from health (homeostatic) to disease (dysbiotic). However, very little is known on how this alters their virulence and host responses. The objective of this study was to determine differences in virulence gene expression by pathobionts and the inflammatory host response in homeostatic and dysbiotic biofilms originating from the same ecology. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to quantify the pathobiont outgrowth. Expression analysis of bacterial virulence and cellular inflammatory genes together with cytokine enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to detect differences in bacterial virulence and to analyze potential differences in inflammatory response. An increase in pathobionts in induced dysbiotic biofilms was observed compared to homeostatic biofilms. The main virulence genes of all pathobionts were upregulated in dysbiotic biofilms. Exposure of these dysbiotic biofilms to epithelial and fibroblast cultures increased the expression of interleukin (IL)–6, IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor–α, and matrix metalloprotease 8, but especially the chemokine CXCL8 (IL-8). Conversely, homeostatic and beneficial biofilms had a minor immune response at the messenger RNA and protein level. Overall, induced dysbiotic biofilms enriched in pathobionts and virulence factors significantly increased the inflammatory response compared to homeostatic and commensal biofilms.
Whose Culture, Whose Neighborhood? Fostering and Resisting Neighborhood Change in the Multiethnic Enclave
Authors: Collins Brady
Published: February 2018

As multiculturalism has become a valued aspect of the city, ethnic enclaves have taken on new economic power in the cultural economy. However, as Western cities become increasingly diverse, multiple ethnic communities often overlap in shared urban spaces. Employing ethnographic methods, this article examines Wilshire Center, Los Angeles, to better understand how multiethnic communities perceive of and experience the culture of their community and how different actors foster or resist neighborhood change. In doing so, this research complicates our understandings of gentrification dynamics in multiethnic areas, and highlights important considerations for community development practitioners seeking to plan for multiple publics.
Minority and Immigrant Youth Exposure to Community Violence: The Differential Effects of Family Management and Peers
Authors: Antunes Maria João Lobo , Ahlin Eileen M.
Published: February 2018

Experiences with neighborhood violence can produce negative consequences in youth, including stress, anxiety, and deviant behavior. Studies report that immigrant and minority youth are more likely to be exposed to violence but less likely to perpetrate it. Similarly, research shows parenting practices are differentially adopted by Blacks, Whites, and Hispanics. Although family management strategies can often act as a barrier to the detrimental effects of exposure to community violence (ETV-C), there is a paucity of investigation on how Hispanic subgroups (e.g., Puerto Rican, Mexican) and immigrant families employ such practices in protecting their children against victimization and violence in the community. Applying an ecological framework, we use data from the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods to examine the role of parenting and peer relationships on youth ETV-C, across race/ethnicity and immigrant generational status. Our sample is drawn from Cohorts 9, 12, and 15, and is over 40% Hispanic-Latino. We investigate the differences in within and outside the home family management strategies in terms of both race/ethnicity and immigrant generational status. Our work also seeks to determine the effects of race/ethnicity and immigrant status on youth ETV-C, while examining the influence of family management and peer relations. Results indicate that the adoption of family management practices is not homogeneous across Hispanic subgroups or immigrant generational status, and parenting practices seem to mediate the relationship between these characteristics and exposure to violence. Variations in parenting practices underscore the need to disentangle the cultural plurality of racial/ethnic grouping and how immigrant generational status influences parenting choices that protect children from exposure to violence in the community.
Classroom Management for Early Childhood Music Settings
Authors: Koops Lisa Huisman
Published: February 2018

Classroom management is a common concern for preservice teachers and can be a key to success for in-service teachers. In this article, I discuss six strategies for classroom management: design and lead engaging music activities, employ music-rich transitions, balance familiarity and novelty, plan for success, communicate clear expectations, and practice mindfulness. For each strategy, I share examples and considerations drawn from early childhood music classes from a variety of settings. Music teachers often teach many levels of students, and it is important to calibrate our classroom management style to our learner’s developmental level.
Administration Rates of the Tdap Vaccine in Obstetric Patients
Authors: Koerner Jamie , Forinash Alicia B. , Yancey Abigail M. , Brinkmeyer Jessica , Dingman Spencer , Miller Collin , Thompson Judy , Bergin Laura , López Julia D. , Ravin Amy
Published: February 2018

Background: Infants younger than 6 months of age are at high risk for contracting pertussis because of not being fully vaccinated. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends vaccinating all pregnant women with tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis vaccine (Tdap) between 27 and 36 weeks to offer passive immunity to the infant to help protect them until they are able to receive the full pertussis series. Objective: To assess and compare compliance with the 2013 ACIP recommendation of vaccinating pregnant women with Tdap at 27 to 36 weeks’ gestation in 2 obstetric clinics. Methods: This cross-sectional, retrospective chart review evaluated Tdap vaccine compliance in a random sample of obstetric patients from October 2013 to September 2014. The primary outcome evaluated the proportion of patients who received Tdap between 27 and 36 weeks’ gestation. Secondary outcomes included the proportion of patients who received Tdap at any point in pregnancy and within 30 days postpartum. Results: The charts of 573 patients were reviewed, and 237 met inclusion criteria. For the primary outcome, 142 patients (59.9%) received the Tdap vaccine. Overall, 156 patients (65.8%) received Tdap at some point during the pregnancy. Factors associated with receiving the Tdap vaccination were insurance status, prenatal care risk level and site of prenatal care, receipt of the influenza vaccine, and preterm labor in the current pregnancy. Conclusion: The Tdap vaccine rate was 65.8%, with 59.9% of patients receiving the vaccine within the recommended ACIP timeframe. Further education, improvements in documentation, and chart reminders are needed to enhance administration.
News Borrowing Revisited: A 50-Year Perspective
Authors: Riffe Daniel , Kim Seoyeon , Sobel Meghan R.
Published: February 2018

Analyzing 50 years’ of New York Times international news coverage ( N = 20,765), this study extends research on the “shrinking international news hole,” levels of press freedom, agent (e.g., Times correspondent), and “borrowed” news—information gleaned from local media, including social media. Data show a recent, growing role for social media and an increase in news borrowing, while foreign coverage declined; slight resurgence in foreign coverage during the last quarter-century; reduced wire copy use but increased correspondent news borrowing; and increased coverage of but decreased news borrowing in news from non-free nations. Borrowing from social media was greatest in non-free nations.