bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PONTEN MANGKUNEGARAN SEBUAH TINJAUAN SEJARAH TENTANG REVOLUSI HIDUP BERSIH DAN SEHAT BAGI RAKYAT
Authors: Kusumastuti Kusumastuti
Published: July 2019

Ponten adalah jamban umum yang didirikan oleh Mangkunagara VII pada tahun 1938 di Kampung Ngebrusan Kelurahan Stabelan Kecamatan Banjarsari Kota Surakarta. Ponten merupakan wujud modernisasi sanitasi lingkungan di wilayah kekuasaan Mangkunegaran yang dipengaruhi oleh budaya Eropa. Karena pada masa itu, kondisi lingkungan masyarakat sangat memprihatinkan. Masyarakat sulit untuk mendapatkan sarana air bersih dan sulit untuk membuang hajat besar (BAB), kecuali di lubang jumbleng tradisional yang berbau busuk dan menjadi tempat berbiak nyamuk malaria atau langsung mengakses sungai sebagai sarana sanitasi lingkungan. Pembangunan ponten menunjukkan adanya kepedulian Mangkunagara VII, penguasa saat itu, terhadap kebersihan dan kesehatan lingkungan rakyatnya. Harapannya, ponten dapat mengubah cara hidup rakyatnya menjadi lebih bersih dan sehat.
Tracking Public Health Workforce Retention: Observations From CDC’s Public Health Associate Program
Authors: Wigington Corinne J. , Colman Laura T. , Sobelson Robyn K. , Young Andrea C.
Published: July 2019

Objectives. To describe the career trajectories of 1 cohort of US Public Health Associate Program (PHAP) alumni over 3 years since completing PHAP.

Methods. We distributed a Web-based survey at 3 time points between 2014 and 2017 (response rate = 76%). We calculated descriptive statistics in SPSS.

Results. At all time points, most alumni were employed. Of those, the percentage employed in public health was 100% at program completion, 86% at year 1, and 68% at year 3.

Conclusions. Most alumni were employed in public health jobs at each time point. At the 3-year mark, approximately a third of the alumni had left public health employment, which is in line with documented rates of turnover within the broader public health workforce.

Public Health Implications. Service learning programs like PHAP are effective at recruiting early career professionals into public health. The extent to which PHAP is effective at retaining workers in public health after the program appears most promising immediately following the program or in the short term after the program concludes. The extent to which workers are retained in the longer term requires further study.
Included, but Deportable: A New Public Health Approach to Policies That Criminalize and Integrate Immigrants
Authors: De Trinidad Young Maria-Elena , Wallace Steven P.
Published: July 2019

There has been a burst of research on immigrant health in the United States and an increasing attention to the broad range of state and local policies that are social determinants of immigrant health. Many of these policies criminalize immigrants by regulating the “legality” of their day-to-day lives while others function to integrate immigrants through expanded rights and eligibility for health care, social services, and other resources.

Research on the health impact of policies has primarily focused on the extremes of either criminalization or integration. Most immigrants in the United States, however, live in states that possess a combination of both criminalizing and integrating policies, resulting in distinct contexts that may influence their well-being.

We present data describing the variations in criminalization and integration policies across states and provide a framework that identifies distinct but concurrent mechanisms of deportability and inclusion that can influence health. Future public health research and practice should address the ongoing dynamics created by both criminalization and integration policies as these likely exacerbate health inequities by citizenship status, race/ethnicity, and other social hierarchies.
Trends and Disparities in Mortality and Progression to AIDS in the Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy Era: Tennessee, 1996–2016
Authors: Rebeiro Peter F. , Pettit April C. , Sizemore Lindsey , Mathieson Samantha A. , Wester Carolyn , Kipp Aaron , Shepherd Bryan E. , Sterling Timothy R.
Published: July 2019

Objectives. To use statewide surveillance data to examine trends and disparities in mortality and progression from HIV to AIDS comprehensively in Tennessee over the past 20 years.

Methods. Individuals diagnosed with HIV in Tennessee from 1996 to 2016 were identified through the Tennessee Department of Health Enhanced HIV/AIDS Reporting System. Clinical AIDS and all-cause mortality were the outcomes. Cox regression yielded adjusted hazard ratios (AHRs) for death and competing risk regression yielded adjusted subhazard ratios (SHRs) for AIDS, with death as the competing event.

Results. Individuals with a history of heterosexual contact (AHR = 1.20; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.12, 1.29) and injection drug use (AHR = 1.27; 95% CI = 1.18, 1.38) had increased hazards of death relative to those with a history of male-to-male sexual contact. Hazards of death were lower among White (AHR = 0.79; 95% CI = 0.73, 0.85) and Hispanic (AHR = 0.50; 95% CI = 0.40, 0.63) individuals than among Black individuals. Those with heterosexual contact (SHR = 1.20; 95% CI = 1.12, 1.29) and injection drug use (SHR = 1.27; 95% CI = 1.18, 1.38) had a greater risk of AIDS than those with male-to-male sexual contact. White individuals (SHR = 0.85; 95% CI = 0.81, 0.90) had a lower risk of AIDS than Black individuals, and female individuals (SHR = 0.84; 95% CI = 0.79, 0.90) had a lower risk than male individuals.

Conclusions. The trends, disparities, and outcomes assessed in our study will inform HIV testing and care linkage program design and implementation in Tennessee.
The Effect of Surgeon Preference for Selective Patellar Resurfacing on Revision Risk in Total Knee Replacement
Authors: Vertullo Christopher J. , Graves Stephen E. , Cuthbert Alana R. , Lewis Peter L.
Published: July 2019

Background:

The optimum strategy regarding resurfacing the patella in total knee replacement (TKR) remains debated, with wide national and international variability. To minimize the confounders of a direct comparison of cases with or without resurfacing, we performed an instrumental variable analysis examining revision risk on the basis of surgeon preference for patellar resurfacing in TKR, specifically examining the subsequent patellar revision risk and all-cause revision risk among cases of surgeons preferring to perform resurfacing on a selective basis compared with those whose preference is to routinely resurface or who infrequently perform resurfacing.

Methods:

Data from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry from 1999 to 2016 were obtained to assess the cumulative percent revision, hazard ratio, and revision diagnoses for 3 cohorts, grouped according the surgeons’ patellar-resurfacing preferences: infrequently (<10% of the time), selectively (10% to <90% of the time), or routinely (≥90% of the time). To avoid confounding from implant design or surgeon performance, only minimally stabilized TKRs using hybrid or cemented fixation and performed by surgeons performing ≥50 TKR procedures per year were included.

Results:

A total of 136,116 procedures were included, with patients in all 3 cohorts having similar demographics. The selectively resurfaced cohort had a higher patellar revision risk compared with the routinely resurfaced cohort, with this risk being greatest in the first 4.5 years following the primary procedure, including 306% higher in the first 1.5 years, and remaining 50% higher after 4.5 years. In a subgroup analysis, increased revision risk was observed among males, females, those <65 years of age, and those ≥65 years of age. The infrequently resurfaced cohort had the highest risk of subsequent patellar revision, up to 482% higher, as seen in the first 1.5 years after the primary procedure, compared with the routinely resurfaced cohort. Additionally, the risk of all-cause revision was 20% higher for the selectively resurfaced cohort compared with routinely resurfaced.

Conclusions:

Surgeons who preferred selective resurfacing of the patella had a higher risk of patellar revision than those who had preference for routine resurfacing of the patella. Overall, a greater preference for resurfacing resulted in a lower risk of patellar revision.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
The opioid peptide biphalin modulates human corneal epithelial wound healing in vitro
Authors: Totuk Ozgun Melike Gedar , YILDIZ Erdost , MOLLICA Adriano , KABADAYI Kerem , SAHIN Afsun
Published: July 2019

Background

Analgesic drugs including nonselective opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be used with great precautions to relieve the pain after physical damage of the corneal epithelium, because of their unfavorable effects on wound healing process. Biphalin, a synthetic opioid peptide, which has been demonstrated to possesses a strong analgesic effect on rodents. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of biphalin on human corneal epithelium wound healing.

Methods

Immortalized human corneal epithelial cell (HCEC) culture was used to test the effects of biphalin on wound healing. The toxicity of biphalin in various concentrations was measured with MTT assay. The effect of 1 µM and 10 µM biphalin were tested on wound closure at in vitro scratch assay of HCECs, and for cell migration and proliferation separately. Naloxone, a non-selective competitive antagonist of opioid receptor, was also used to inhibit the effects of biphalin in all experiments.

Results

Biphalin did not cause any toxic effect on HCECs in concentrations lower than 100 µM at various incubation time points. Biphalin increased wound closure process significantly at 1 µM concentration at in vitro scratch assay of HCECs (p < 0.05); also increased migration of HCECs significantly (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference between biphalin and control groups of HCECs at Ki67 proliferation assay.

Conclusion

Biphalin, a synthetic opioid peptide, has a potential role as a novel topical analgesic agent that promotes corneal epithelial wound healing.
Paving the way for more precise diagnosis of EcPV2-associated equine penile lesions
Authors: Ramsauer Anna Sophie , Wachoski-Dark Garrett Louis , Fraefel Cornel , Tobler Kurt , Brandt Sabine , Knight Cameron Greig , Favrot Claude , Grest Paula
Published: July 2019

Background
There is growing evidence that equine papillomavirus type 2 (EcPV2) infection is causally associated with the development of equine genital squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). Early stages of disease present as plaques or papillomas, which can gradually progress to carcinoma in situ (CIS) and ultimately SCCs. Guidelines for histological classification of early SCC precursor lesions are not precisely defined, leading to potential misdiagnosis. The aim of this study was to identify histologic criteria and diagnostic markers allowing for a more accurate diagnosis of EcPV2-associated equine penile lesions.
Results
A total of 61 archived equine penile lesions were histologically re-assessed and classified as benign hyperplasia, papilloma, CIS or SCC. From these, 19 representative lesions and adjacent normal skin were comparatively analysed for the presence of EcPV2 DNA and transcripts using PCR and RNA in situ hybridisation (RISH). All tumour samples were positive by EcPV2 PCR and RISH, while adjacent normal skin was negative. RISH analysis yielded signal distribution patterns that allowed distinction of early (hyperplasia, papilloma) from late stage lesions (CIS, SCC). Subsequently, the 19 lesions were further assessed for expression of p53, Ki67, MCM7 and MMP1 by immunohistochemistry (IHC). All four proteins were expressed in both normal and lesional tissue. However, p53 expression was up-regulated in basal keratinocyte layers of papillomas, CIS and SCCs, as well as in upper keratinocyte layers of CIS and SCCs. MCM7 expression was only up-regulated in upper keratinocyte layers of papillomas, CIS and SCCs.
Conclusion
We propose combining a refined histological protocol for analysis of equine penile lesions with PCR- and/or RISH based EcPV2-screening and p53/MCM7 IHC to more accurately determine the type and grade of lesion. This may help guide choice of optimum treatment strategy, especially at early stages of disease.
Genetic characterization and plasmid profile of extended-spectrum β-lactamase and Quaternary ammonium compound E delta 1 gene producing multi-resistant Shigella species isolated from raw cow milk and milk products in Egypt
Authors: Elkenany Rasha , Eltaysh Rasha , Elsayed Mona , Abdel-daim Mohamed
Published: July 2019

Background

Multi-resistant Shigella species recovered from raw cow milk and milk products has predominated all over the world especially extended spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) and Quaternary ammonium compound E delta 1 (qacE∆1) genes. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence, antibiotic and disinfectant resistance phenotypes and genotypes as well as plasmid profiles of Shigella species isolated from raw cow milk and milk products in Egypt. The genotypic analysis was determined for the presence of β-lactamase encoding genes (blaTEM, blaCTX-M, blaOXA-1 and blaSHV), tetA(A) and qacE∆.

Results

Twenty-one (7%) of Shigella isolates (S. dysenteriae, S. flexneri and S. sonnei) were recovered with S. dysenteriae as the most predominant types. Antibiotic sensitivity tests showed 71.4% of multidrug-resistant Shigella isolates. High resistance rates were observed to tetracyclines (100%), ampicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanate (90.5%, each) and cefaclor (66.7%), whilst no resistance was detected against imipenem, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, and azithromycin. Disinfectant susceptibility test of Shigella isolates revealed resistance to phenolic compound (vanillic), while 85.7% of Shigella isolates were benzalkonium chloride resistant. Uniplex PCR analysis exhibit presence of β-lactamase encoding genes (blaTEM in all isolates and blaCTX-M in 28.6% of isolates), tetA(A) in all isolates and 85.7% isolates positive for qacE∆1, while all isolates were negative for blaOXA-1 and blaSHV. All Shigella extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producers (6, 100%) were positive for blaTEM, blaCTX-M, and qacE∆1 genes. Furthermore, plasmid profiling revealed seven distinct plasmid patterns (P1-P7) ranging from 1.26 to 33.61 kb among all Shigella strains; S. dysenteriae displayed the greatest variance. The co-transfer of β-lactamase genes (blaTEM and blaCTX-M) and qacE∆1 genes was observed by conjugation.

Conclusions

S. dysenteriae was the most common identified types in the examined sources. Also, the findings imply the emergence of multi-resistant Shigella species either multi-resistant to antibiotics (particularly ESBL producer strains) or disinfectants in Egypt. Thus, the resistance of Shigella species should regularly be monitored and appropriate measures should be taken to manage this problem.
Industrial chemical bisphenol A and raw milk: a toxicokinetic study in lactating dairy sheep after repeated dietary and subcutaneous administration
Authors: Šturm Sabina , Škibin Andrej , Grabnar Iztok , Pogačnik Milan , Flajs Vesna Cerkvenik
Published: July 2019

• Background: Dietary intake is the predominant route for human exposure to bisphenol A and one of the food items important for humans is milk, and BPA-polluted animal feed and environments may thus affect human exposure. The aim of our study was to evaluate the BPA exposure and disposition in sheep milk after repeated dietary and subcutaneous administration of a relatively low dose (100 µg/kg of body weight per day) of BPA to a sheep.

• Results: With our toxicokinetic model, we showed that most likely only free BPA passes into the mammary gland and is subsequently conjugated there. The percentage of the dose eliminated with milk was less than 0.1%, regardless of the route of BPA administration.

• Conclusions: It is proven that the BPA is eliminated through the milk of lactating sheep. However, the amounts excreted in the milk that were detected in this study are minimal.
Comprehensive interventions of safety culture to improve patient safety: A longitudinal follow-up in northeast China
Authors: Zhao Chuang , Chang Qing , Zhang Xi , Wu Qijun , Wu Nan , He Jiao , Zhao Yuhong
Published: July 2019

Background: Safety culture in hospitals can affect patient disease processes and health status. However, comprehensive measures to improve patient safety and effective methods to precisely assess the outcomes are limited in China.
Methods: A cohort study was carried out in a tertiary hospital in China. Medical caregivers received comprehensive interventions such as a study on emergency plans and professional skills training to improve safety culture at the beginning of January 2017. A total of 553 caregivers in March, 299 caregivers in June and 284 caregivers in December in the same year participated in the three evaluation surveys. The safety attitude questionnaire (SAQ), the dimension frequency and number of events reported in the hospital survey of patient safety culture (HSOPSC) and a questionnaire on barriers to reporting adverse events were used to examine the safety culture changes before, during and at the end of intervention implementation.
Results: The scores for dimension teamwork climate, job satisfaction and perception of management in the SAQ were significantly increased (p < 0.05). The scores for the 17 items in the barriers to reporting adverse events questionnaire were significantly increased (p < 0.05). No significant changes were observed in the scores for the dimension frequency and number of events reported in the HSOPSC after the interventions.
Conclusion: Our findings showed that the interventions improved safety attitudes, and the barriers to reporting adverse events decreased, suggesting that the comprehensive interventions used were helpful for improving the safety culture.
The Effects of sKlotho on Osteoblast Metabolisms under High Glucose and its mechanisms
Authors: Ma Xiaoyu , Wu Can , Chen Fenqin , Lv Xiujuan , Wang Qiuyue
Published: July 2019

Background

Studies have found that excessive reactive oxygen(ROS) productions could cause senile osteoporosis and diabetic osteoporosis(DOP). Silent information regulator 1 (Sirt1) has anti-oxidative and anti-aging effects on improving bone metabolism through P53/P21 and P16 pathways in senile osteoporosis. Klotho is a kind of anti-aging gene and Klotho-/- mice is characterized by osteoporosis. The secreted Klotho(sKlotho) proteins exert anti-oxidative stress effect in multiple systems. Our study is aimed to explore the effects of sKlotho on osteoblast metabolisms, Sirt1 expression and senescence pathway under high glucose. Results We found that sKlotho could improve MC3T3-E1 proliferation and differentiation, reduce cell apoptosis and ROS, increased Sirt1 expression, and inhibit P53/P21 and P16 activation under high glucose. While the improvement of MC3T3-E1 activity and anti-aging effect of sKlotho on MC3T3-E1 under high glucose disappeared after transfected with Sirt1-siRNA. Conclusions We concluded that sKlotho could significantly improve the activity of MC3T3-E1, alleviate oxidative stress and senescence under high glucose via increasing the expression of Sirt1 by reducing ROS production.
What Influences Utilization of Senior Citizen Centers? Evidence from the 2017 National Survey of Older Koreans
Authors: Sharma Bimala , Song Geurum , Nam Eun Woo
Published: July 2019

Background

Korea has envisioned an expansion of health and social welfare services for the elderly through community-based care. Accordingly, senior citizen centers are in operation.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the influence of socio-demographic factors, life satisfaction, and health status on the utilization of senior citizen centers by elderly Koreans.

Methods

A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted using secondary data from the 2017 National Survey of Older Koreans. Descriptive statistics were used to determine utilization patterns; and chi-square test, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted at a 5% significance level to determine the factors associated with senior citizen center utilization.

Result

Of 10,299 elderly people, 21.7% were aged 80 or above, and 22.7% had visited a senior citizen centers in the past 12 months. The most common reasons for visiting was the desire for company, and more than 95% of the subjects were satisfied with the services provided. Regarding socio-demographic factors, those who were female (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) =1.20), older (AOR=3.94 for ≥80 years), illiterate (AOR=5.27), less educated, or from eup meon bu (AOR=6.42) were most likely to use senior citizen centers. Regarding the life satisfaction, those who experienced financial satisfaction (AOR=1.21), satisfaction with culture (AOR=1.49), and satisfaction with friends and society (AOR=4.24) had the higher odds of senior citizen center utilization. Higher odds of the senior citizen center utilization were observed for the elderly diagnosed with multiple diseases as compared to those who were disease free.

Conclusion

Socio-demographic factors, life satisfaction, and health status influence utilization of the senior citizen centers. Therefore, the government’s community-based care strategy should take these factors into consideration.
Prevalence of sleep disorders in Parkinson’s disease patients in two Neurology referral hospitals in Ethiopia
Authors: Melka Dereje , Tafesse Abenet , Bower James H. , Assefa Demeke
Published: July 2019

Background: Non motor symptoms (NMS) of Parkinson’s disease (PD) are common and can be more disabling than motor symptoms.Sleep disorders can be seen in up to 98% of patients with Parkinson disease. Poor sleep quality has been associated with poverty and race, and yet there has been no prior report on sleep disorders in those with PD living in sub Saharan Africa. We wished to document the prevalence of sleep disorders in PD patients in Ethiopia. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional point prevalence study from July 1 to October 30, 2015 of all patients attending the neurology outpatient department in Tikur Anbessa and Zewuditu Memorial Hospitals, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Demographic data, clinical history and physical examination findings were collected from participants using a structured questionnaire. We used the Parkinson’s disease sleep scale version two (PDSS-2) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) to assess the sleep symptoms. Results: Of the 155 patients surveyed, all patients reported some sleep problem. Over 43.9% of patients had a PDSS score > 18. The median score of ESS was 9 (IQR = 5-12), with 77/155 (49.7%) of the patients having possible or definite excessive daytime somnolence. A high EDSS score significantly associated with a Hoehn & Yahr score > 4 (p= 0.02). Conclusions: In Ethiopian PD patients, the prevalence of those with severe sleep disorders is the highest reported to date. The prevalence of possible/definite EDS is amongst the highest in the world. Further investigation into whether poverty or race explains this finding is needed.
Structural network topology correlates to cognitive impairment and iPTH level in End-stage renal disease patients with peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Wang Longsheng , Zou Liwei , Wu Hanqiu , Shan Yanqi , Zhao Ru , Liu Guiling , Tao Fangbiao , Zheng Suisheng , Gong Xijun
Published: July 2019

Objective: The burden of cognitive impairment in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing peritoneal dialysis has received more attention lately. It is associated with hospitalization, mortality and poorer quality of life. We aimed to assess the topological alterations of the brain white matter structural network in ESRD and the correlation between network metrics with Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores and clinical data.
Methods: The study included 25 ESRD patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT group), 25 patients without SHPT (Non-SHPT group) and 25 healthy controls (HC group) of comparable age and sex. Montreal Cognitive Assessment was used to assess the cognitive function. The WM structural network was constructed by DTI technique, and then we used graph theoretical approaches to detect changes in the global and regional properties of the WM networks in these participants through deterministic tractography method.
Results: ESRD patients showed cognitive impairment compared to HC, and the SHPT patients had lower cognitive scores than the Non-SHPT patients. The global topological organization and local efficiency of the WM network was significantly disrupted in the SHPT but not in the Non-SHPT patients compared with the HC group. Moreover, lower regional efficiency was found in the ESRD patients, mainly distributed in the frontal and parietal cortices. In addition, an association was found between iPTH, shortest path length and cognitive impairment, and the iPTH level was negatively correlated with small-worldness by two indexes, the normalized clustering coefficient and the normalized shortest path length.
Conclusion: The present study indicated that the brain structural connectome in ESRD patients with high iPTH levels was disrupted in association with cognitive impairment and it is a potential connectome-based biomarker for early detection.
Dissipation of DvSnf7 Double‐Stranded RNA in Brazilian Soils
Authors: Joaquim Marcela Emanuele Scarso , Belchior Gustavo Gross , José Marcia Ometto de Mello Alves , Zapata Fatima , Jiang Changjian , Fischer Joshua , Berger Geraldo Ubirajara
Published: July 2019

Core Ideas

Approval of biotech crops in Brazil requires an exposure assessment.

Double‐stranded RNA produced by maize MON 87411 is unlikely to persist in tropical soil.

Soil dissipation results with dsRNA can be generalized across diverse geographies.

Characterizing the environmental fate of DvSnf7 double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) produced by MON 87411 maize (Zea mays L.) in Brazilian soils is a critical component to a comprehensive environmental risk assessment. This study shows that DvSnf7 dsRNA dissipated rapidly in tropical soils, with results comparable to those previously reported in soils from North America. These results suggest that dsRNA produced by maize MON 87411 is unlikely to persist in soil following cultivation in tropical environments.
Soil Water Dynamics and Winter Wheat Performance under Precipitation Change in the Loess Tableland Region, China
Authors: Zhu Yuanjun , Cui Yaqiang
Published: July 2019

The responses of soil water and winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to changes in precipitation are crucial for stability of wheat yield and soil water conservation in the Chinese Loess Tableland Region (LTR). A 2‐yr (2014‐2016) experiment was conducted in the LTR to investigate soil water dynamics and winter wheat performance under three precipitation levels: Rc (normal), R+ (increased by one‐third of normal), and R− (decreased by one‐third of normal) by a real‐time precipitation allocation system. Soil water storage (SWS) at a depth of 0–3.8 m showed positive (R+) or negative (R−) responses to precipitation. The mean SWS in different soil layers followed an order of R+ > Rc > R−. During the experiment, the 0–3.8 m SWS decreased by 34.5 mm (R+), 183.8 mm (Rc), and 218.9 mm (R−). The shoot biomass and grain yield varied little among three precipitation levels in 2014–2015, but was reduced by 50% in R− compared with Rc in 2015–2016. The R− and Rc treatments had higher water use efficiency (WUE) than R+ in 2014–2015, and Rc was the highest in 2015–2016. The proportions of soil water to water consumption in R+ and Rc increased from 22.5% in 2014–2015 to 42.5% in 2015–2016 on average, and for R− was stable over 2‐yr (average 44.5%). Soil water plays a critical role in winter wheat performance under changes in precipitation, which should guide winter wheat production and soil water management in the future.

Core Ideas

Precipitation changes soil water storage but does not change the regime of soil water changing with time.

Response of winter wheat yield to precipitation change has hysteresis effect.

Supplementary effect of soil water compensates for the negative effect of decreased precipitation.

Performance of supplementary effect is determined by precipitation pattern.
Dry Heat and Exposure Time Influence Divine Nightshade and Itchgrass Seed Emergence
Authors: Spaunhorst Douglas J. , Orgeron Albert J.
Published: July 2019

In Louisiana, growers remove sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids) residue following green‐cane harvesting by prescribed burning. Divine nightshade [Solanum nigrescens (Mart. & Gal)] and itchgrass [Rottboellia cochinchinensis (Lour.) Clayton] are problematic weeds in Louisiana sugarcane production. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of dry heat and exposure duration on divine nightshade and itchgrass emergence. Divine nightshade and itchgrass seeds were exposed to three temperature levels (100, 150, and 200°C) for seven exposure timings (0, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, and 160 s). Exposure to 150 and 200°C for 5 to 20 s reduced divine nightshade emergence 6 to 29%. Divine nightshade emergence was not completely inhibited at 200°C for 160 s. However, itchgrass exposed to 150°C for 40 s or longer or to 200°C for 20 s or longer failed to emerge. Results from this study showed itchgrass seed could be controlled with dry heat, but prescribed burns that produced temperatures below 100°C or temperatures greater than 150°C for short durations may not control all divine nightshade seeds. The aforementioned temperature and exposure duration that allowed divine nightshade to survive introduced the potential for divine nightshade to become more abundant.

Core Ideas

Itchgrass seed exposed to 150°C dry heat for 40 s or more did not emerge.

Divine nightshade seed was more tolerant to 150 and 200°C than itchgrass.

Dry heat was an effective control strategy for surface deposited weed seeds.
Inheritance Study for Popping Expansion in Popcorn vs. Flint Corn Genotypes
Authors: Coan Marlon Mathias Dacal , Pinto Ronald José Barth , Kuki Maurício Carlos , do Amaral Júnior Antônio Teixeira , Figueiredo Alex Sandro Torre , Scapim Carlos Alberto , Warburton Marilyn
Published: July 2019

Popcorn is a popular snack food with higher economic value compared to field corn varieties of maize (Zea mays L.), but displays less favorable agronomic performance and greater susceptibility to diseases. The objective of the present work was to study the mode of inheritance of popping expansion (PE) from three different crosses of popcorn × flint corn with a classical model and a mixed model using inbred lines derived from tropical germplasm. The study will investigate if PE is encoded by one or two major genes, a few genes with large effect, or multiple genes of small effect. Four generations (P1 and P2, F1, F2, BC1‐Popcorn and BC1‐Flint) from each cross were evaluated in field experiments in the main growing season of 2013/2014, in two environments. A randomized complete block design was used, with a nested split‐plot arrangement of treatments with four replicates. Means of the four generations were determined for PE. A weighted least squares analysis of variance based on the generation means method was used to perform joint scaling tests on the data from each generation. Maximum likelihood estimators were used to test the effect of major genes and/or the presence of polygenic loci affecting the trait. Although inheritance studies with plot means can be used to estimate genetic effects, the effect numbers can be overestimated. In the current study, PE in popcorn vs. flint crosses was controlled by a major additive gene in conjunction with polygenic modifiers acting in both additive and dominant fashions.

Core Ideas

Popping expansion is a trait that exhibits quantitative inheritance.

Knowledge about the genetic control will aid in breeding programs.

We used contrasting crosses and a maximum likelihood approach for inheritance study.

Popping expansion is controlled by additive gene with different modifiers.
Checks and Mass Balances for In Situ Quantification of Mineral Composition using Proximal Soil Sensors
Authors: Jones Edward J. , Singh Balwant , McBratney Alex. B.
Published: July 2019

Soil mineral composition affects soil behavior, but field estimation of mineral composition has proved difficult. To investigate the potential of predicting soil mineral composition in situ, 15 soils representing diverse mineral composition from New South Wales, Australia, were scanned with visible near‐infrared (VisNIR) and portable X‐ray fluorescence (pXRF) spectrometers to a depth of 1 m at 2.5‐cm scanning increments. The presence of phyllosilicate and Fe oxides was assessed using a pattern‐matching algorithm with VisNIR spectra from mineral end‐member libraries. Rule‐based iterative partitioning was then applied on pXRF elemental compositions based on mineral stoichiometry to determine the abundance of kaolinite, smectite, illite, hematite, goethite, calcite, gypsum, and quartz. This fusion model correctly identified the most abundant mineral in a sample with 72% accuracy. Mineral predictions were stable under variable moisture and surface conditions, as experienced when scanning samples in situ and under air‐dry and ground conditions in the laboratory. Relative changes in mineral composition within a profile and across horizon boundaries were accurately expressed. The fusion model accurately quantified the abundance of quartz (Cohen's kappa coefficient, 0.67), and CaCO3 (Cohen's kappa coefficient, 0.76; Lin's concordance correlation coefficient, 0.96; RMSE, 20.9 g kg−1). The dominant phyllosilicate mineral was identified correctly with 86% accuracy, although accurate quantification of phyllosilicates and Fe oxides was not achieved. Conjoint use of VisNIR and pXRF spectroscopy as part of a fusion model approach showed great potential to provide comprehensive estimation of soil mineral composition in situ.

Core Ideas

VisNIR and pXRF were used to quantify soil mineral composition in situ.

The fusion model approach leveraged the complementary strengths of VisNIR and pXRF.

The most abundant mineral of a sample was predicted with 78% accuracy.

Quantitative predictions were achieved for quartz, CaCO3, and gypsum.

This is the most comprehensive investigation of its kind to date.
Origin of Monte Rosa whiteschist from in-situ tourmaline and quartz oxygen isotope analysis by SIMS using new tourmaline reference materials
Authors: Marger Katharina , Luisier Cindy , Baumgartner Lukas P. , Putlitz Benita , Dutrow Barbara L. , Bouvier Anne-Sophie , Dini Andrea
Published: July 2019

A series of tourmaline reference materials are developed for in situ oxygen isotope analysis by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), which allow study of the tourmaline compositions found in most igneous and metamorphic rocks. The new reference material was applied to measure oxygen isotope composition of tourmaline from metagranite, meta-leucogranite, and whiteschist from the Monte Rosa nappe (Western Alps). The protolith and genesis of whiteschist are highly debated in the literature. Whiteschists occur as 10 to 50 m tube-like bodies within the Permian Monte Rosa granite. They consist of chloritoid, talc, phengite, and quartz, with local kyanite, garnet, tourmaline, and carbonates.

Whiteschist tourmaline is characterized by an igneous core and a dravitic overgrowth (XMg > 0.9). The core reveals similar chemical composition and zonation as meta-leucogranitic tourmaline (XMg = 0.25, δ18O = 11.3–11.5‰), proving their common origin. Dravitic overgrowths in whiteschists have lower oxygen isotope compositions (8.9–9.5‰). Tourmaline in metagranite is an intermediate schorl-dravite with XMg of 0.50. Oxygen isotope data reveal homogeneous composition for metagranite and meta-leucogranite tourmalines of 10.4–11.3‰ and 11.0–11.9‰, respectively. Quartz inclusions in both meta-igneous rocks show the same oxygen isotopic composition as the quartz in the matrix (13.6–13.9‰). In whiteschist the oxygen isotope composition of quartz included in tourmaline cores lost their igneous signature, having the same values as quartz in the matrix (11.4–11.7‰). A network of small fractures filled with dravitic tourmaline can be observed in the igneous core and suggested to serve as a connection between included quartz and matrix, and lead to recrystallization of the inclusion. In contrast, the igneous core of the whiteschist tourmaline fully retained its magmatic oxygen isotope signature, indicating oxygen diffusion is extremely slow in tourmaline. Tourmaline included in high-pressure chloritoid shows the characteristic dravitic overgrowth, demonstrating that chloritoid grew after the metasomatism responsible for the whiteschist formation, but continued to grow during the Alpine metamorphism. Our data on tourmaline and quartz show that tourmaline-bearing white-schists originated from the related meta-leucogranites, which were locally altered by late magmatic hydrothermal fluids prior to Alpine high-pressure metamorphism.
Single-crystal elasticity of iron-bearing phase E and seismic detection of water in Earth's upper mantle
Authors: Satta Niccolò , Marquardt Hauke , Kurnosov Alexander , Buchen Johannes , Kawazoe Takaaki , McCammon Catherine , Ballaran Tiziana Boffa
Published: July 2019

The elastic properties of Mg2.12(2)Fe0.21(2)Ni0.01Si1.15(1)O6H2.67(8) phase E single crystals with Fe3+/ΣFe = 0.25(3) have been determined by Brillouin spectroscopy at ambient conditions. We find that that the elasticity of iron-bearing phase E is described by the six independent stiffness tensor components (all in units of GPa): C11 = 192.2(6), C12 = 56.4(8), C13 = 43.5(8), C14 = –4.3(3), C33 = 192.1(7), C44 = 46.4(3). The Voigt-Reuss-Hill averages of bulk and shear moduli are 95.9(4) and 59.6(2) GPa, respectively. The aggregate velocities of iron-bearing phase E are νP = 7.60(2) and νS = 4.43(1) km/s, markedly lower than those of major mantle minerals at ambient conditions. Modeling based on our results suggests that the presence of iron-bearing phase E may reduce the sound wave velocities in upper mantle and transition zone rocks, making it a possible target for future seismological investigations aiming to map hydration in subducting slabs.
The Kos–Nisyros–Yali Volcanic Field
Authors: Bachmann Olivier , Allen Sharon R. , Bouvet de Maisonneuve Caroline
Published: July 2019

The Kos–Nisyros–Yali volcanic field has produced a range of volcanic products over the last 3 million years. Volumetrically, silicic magma dominates, and activity includes one of the largest known explosive eruptions of the Aegean arc, the >60 km3 (dense-rock equivalent), 161 ka rhyolitic Kos Plateau Tuff. The Kos–Nisyros–Yali volcanic field is situated within an area of active crustal extension, which has greatly influenced magmatic processes and landscape development in the region. Recent seismic unrest, surface deformation and intense geothermal activity indicate that the system remains active, particularly around the Nisyros and Yali edifices. These signs of magmatic activity, together with the fact that the most recent eruptions have become increasingly silicic, would justify detailed monitoring of the area.
Promoting Higher Order Thinking Skills in Literature Class via Critical Thinking Module (CTM)
Authors: Che Teh Norhezan , Isa Nor Hashimah , Omar Ainon
Published: July 2019

Advancement in the innovation world, robotics and artificial intelligence as well as heavily globally-connected world among others has led to the impetus of Industrial Revolution (IR 4.0). Hence, work opportunities that exist today might not be available in the future as there is a huge possibility that they might be taken over by machines. This could result in job scarcity. Therefore, the challenge now is to prepare our students with the necessary skills to stay relevant and needed in the job market of the future. The ability to think on the higher level is amplified with IR 4.0. So, it is only wise to teach, train and prepare the students with this skill now. This paper shares the findings of a larger study on how the Critical Thinking Module  (CTM) is able to assist higher order thinking (HOTs) among the students in Literature Classes. This research employs case study method and the subjects were selected using purposive sampling. The CTM focuses on the students’ ability to analyse, synthesise and evaluate. The activities included in CTM are everyday activities that will be able to be carried out in an hour and ten minutes period.  All of the activities are student-centered and highlight on the importance of group work whereby discussion, collaboration and cooperation are vital. Data were gathered through test scripts and class observation. The participants were 9 students from a cluster school in Ipoh. They were observed for 18 weeks and the result of the study revealed that the students were better at HOTs verbally compared to written. The case study suggests the CTM is capable of aiding the students to think on the higher level.
Using Rubrics in A University EFL Process Writing Program: An Exploratory Case Study
Authors: Qian Yamin
Published: July 2019

While rubrics have been widely recognized as an effective instructional tool for teachers to evaluate students’ writing products, fewer studies explored how students use it for their writing process in an EFL university academic writing classes. This study explores the application of process-oriented rubrics in two EFL writing programs, and investigates whether English language proficiency, motivation to writing, and their previous experiences with writing programs would significantly affect the use of the rubrics. The participants (N=190) were from two student cohorts, each of which had 95 participants. The data set includes students’ self-, peer- use and the instructor’s use of the rubrics, and students’ written reflection upon peer feedbacks. The data showed that the rubrics can guide students to practice a writing process, and that the 20-item rubric was statistically reliable.  The data of rubrics also showed that the participants were more critical on their peers’ writing, and the reflection data showed students’ awareness of revision strategies. The qualitative data seemed to suggest that peer reviews and reflections upon such reviews could enhance students' revision strategies. This article will conclude itself by providing some pedagogical suggestions in EFL contexts
Plant growth and physiological quality of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) seeds grown in Southern Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Authors: Vergara Rafael De Oliveira , Martins Andréa Bicca Noguez , Pedó Tiago , Radke Aline Klug , Gadotti Gizele Ingrid , Villela Francisco Amaral , Xavier Fernanda da Motta , Eberhardt Paulo Eduardo Rocha , Cavalcante Jerfferson Araújo , Meneguzzo Michele Renata Revers
Published: July 2019

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) an annual grain crop belonging to the Amaranthacea family is the only vegetable food that contains all essential amino acids, micronutrients and vitamins. The study aimed to evaluate the performance, growth and seed physiological quality of two genotypes of quinoa in Southern Rio Grande do Sul region. The cultivar BRS Piabiru and one breeding line were grown at green house. The design was completely randomized with four replications and five harvest times during the vegetative stage of the crop. The variables were shoot length, number of leaves, leaf area index, dry matter of aerial parts, dry matter of root and total dry matter of plant. It was concluded that the line and BRS Piabiru have slow initial growth in the first 30 days and strong growth up to 120 days. The breeding line and commercial cultivar showed the same potential for seed production in the temperate climate of this region.
Initial growth of carnauba (Copernicia prunifera) progenies under saline water
Authors: Rocha Emanuel Lucas Bezerra , Araujo Poliana Coqueiro Dias
Published: July 2019

The carnauba (Copernicia prunifera [Miller] H. E. Moore) is a palm tree that has multiple uses and is of great economic and social importance for extractive families in Northeast Brazil. The objective of this work is to analyze the effect of saline water on the production of different progenies of carnauba. The experiment is arranged in a 5 x 36 factorial scheme in a randomized complete block design, with five replications and five plants per replication. The treatments consist of five levels of irrigation water salinity (with commercial NaCl levels, free of iodine: 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mM) and 36 free-pollination progenies. The following characteristics are evaluated: foliar length (H), collecting diameter (DC), survival rate (TS), number of leaves (NF), dry shoot mass (MSPA), dry mass of the root system (MSSR), and dry mass ratio of the root system to the shoot. The results reveal similar behavior among the progenies for the evaluated characteristics. However, significance is observed for the parameters leaf length, collection diameter, and survival rate when the progenies are subjected to salinity above 9.6 dS m-1. Another significant factor is the accumulation of Na+ in the aerial and radicular parts in salinity levels of 7.1, 9.6, and 12.0 dS m-1, with the root system being the most affected site. Thus, the tested progenies exhibit similar behaviors in tolerance to irrigation water salinity. Since the carnauba can produce seedlings in water with electrical conductivity of up to 9.6 dS m-1, this species is characterized as a bioindicator of saline soils and is recommended for planting in degraded areas.
Effect of indol-3-butiric acid (IBA) on rooting of cuttings of Schizolobium parahyba var. amazonicum (Huber ex Ducke) Barneby
Authors: Lima Clenes Cunha , Ohashi Selma Toyoko , Simões Pedro H.O. , Jucoski Gladis Oliveira , Silva Priscilla Andrade , Silva Josiane Pereira da , Silva Claudete Rosa da , Nogueira Glauco A.S. , Nascimento Vitor R. , Brito Ana Ecídia de Araújo , Palheta Lenilson F. , Neto Cândido F. de Oliveira
Published: July 2019

The propagation of S. amazonicum by seeds can result in uneven seedlings that are subject to poor quality, which is detrimental to uniformity and productivity. The absence of an efficient method of vegetative propagation of the species may be a limitation for genetic improvement, and consequently the increase in productivity of plantation. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) in the rooting of cuttings of paricá - Schizolobium parahyba var. amazonicum (Huber ex Ducke) Barneby. The cuttings obtained from the stems of the seedlings then were treated with IBA in the hydro-alcoholic solutions at 1000, 2000, 3000 and 4000 ppm; commercial product with 2000 ppm IBA powder; commercial product composed of IBA and nutrients; and treatment control (0 ppm). The cuttings were planted in plastic trays with vermiculite and coconut fiber (1:1 v/v) and placed in a box lined with plastic to control moisture. The experimental design was completely randomized with five replications and 10 cuttings per plot. After 60 days, the percentage of rooted cuttings, living and dead, and number and length of roots were analyzed. The analysis of variance at 5% of probability indicated statistical differences for all variables. The best results were observed when we used IBA at 2000 and 3000 ppm, diluted in hydro-alcoholic solutions. These treatments showed statistically equal and produced the highest percentage of rooting, average number and length of roots and lowest percentage of dead cuttings. The polynomial regression analysis indicated that higher rooting rates can be obtained in 2550 ppm of IBA diluted in hydro-alcoholic solutions.