bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of input modes and number of exposures on the learning of L2 binomials
Authors: Alotaibi Sara , Pellicer-Sánchez Ana , Conklin Kathy
Published: September 2021

Despite the importance of mastering different types of formulaic sequences in a second language, little is known about the relative effect of different input modes on their acquisition. This study explores the learning of a particular type of formulaic language (binomials) in three input modes (reading-only, listening-only, and reading-while-listening) at different frequencies of exposure (2, 4, 5 and 6 occurrences). Arabic learners of English were presented with three stories, each in a different mode, that contained novel binomials (e.g., wires and pipes) and existing binomials (e.g., brother and sister). Two post-tests (multiple-choice and familiarity ratings) assessed learners’ knowledge of the binomials. Results showed that reading-only and reading-while-listening led to better performance on the tasks than listening-only. Frequency of exposure had an effect on the perceived familiarity of binomials.
Translating in the contact zone
Authors: Vidal Claramonte Mª Carmen África
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this article is to analyze the hybrid language used in the U.S. by a generation who think brown and write brown. I am referring to the so-calledone-and-a-halfers, a generation that includes writers such as Gloria Anzaldúa, Cherríe Moraga, Sandra Cisneros, Pat Mora, Ilan Stavans, Ana Lydia Vega, Ana Castillo, Helena Viramontes, Esmeralda Santiago, or Tato Laviera, to name but a few. I aim to analyze how many migrants and refugees use language in a way that destroys consensus. It is in these spaces where the migration movements of the multiple souths talk back in a weird language which the Establishment fears. In these circumstances, translation becomes a tool to raise questions that disturb the universal promises of monolingualism.
Probing the anisotropic distribution of baryon matter in the Universe using fast radio bursts *
Authors: Lin Hai-Nan , Sang Yu
Published: September 2021

We propose that fast radio bursts (FRBs) can be used as probes to constrain the possible anisotropic distribution of baryon matter in the Universe. Monte Carlo simulations show that 400 (800) FRBs are sufficient to detect the anisotropy at a 95% (99%) confidence level if the dipole amplitude has an order of magnitude of 0.01. However, more FRBs are required to tightly constrain the dipole direction. Even 1000 FRBs are insufficient to constrain the dipole direction within the angular uncertainty

at a 95% confidence level. The uncertainty on the dispersion measure of a host galaxy does not significantly affect the results. However, if the dipole amplitude is in the region of 0.001, 1000 FRBs are not enough to correctly detect the anisotropic signal.
Vertical Displacement of a Single Pile Due to Axial & Lateral Loads
Authors: Gunawan S , Surjandari N S , Setiawan B , Purwana Y M P
Published: September 2021

Pile foundation supports the upper structure to the subgrade, generally vertical loads. Still, if horizontal loads are very dominant, such as bridges, tall buildings, and tower structures, it must be calculated. Pile foundations with combined loads are generally analyzed. The axial load is first to determine the axial carrying capacity and vertical displacement, then the lateral load to determine the lateral bearing capacity and lateral deflection. In the field, the two loads work together/simulant. In Indonesia, loading tests do not simultaneously, so in construction, it does not account for the additional vertical displacement and lateral deflection due to the load that works simulant. However, there has been an association in ASTM D3966-07 about the simulant loading test. This research will investigate the analysis and experimental laboratory, the effect of vertical displacement on a single pile foundation, as the effect of combined loads. Also, it gets a relationship that can be used as a reference for analyzing additional vertical displacement due to combined loads on pile foundations based on available independent loading test. The research will be divided into two stages. Stage I is an analysis with the Finite Element Method (FEM) approach. Phase II is a laboratory model experimental test, which is inbox (100x100x80) cm3 filled silty sand soil as an illustration of conditions in the field, single pile foundation using steel with a length of 50cm and 60cm, the diameter of 1.5cm and 2cm, with axial and lateral load variations and combined loads. The results obtained show that after adding vertical load (Pu) about 5x, lateral load (Hu) on (Pu/Hu > 5) and the vertical displacement stays like the loading test until it collapses. Another (Pu/Hu ≤ 5), the lateral load, will increase the significant vertical movement due to the combination load. With axial load five times greater than lateral load, there is no increase in vertical displacement. Still, at an axial load less than five times the lateral load, there is an increase in vertical displacement that needs to be considered.
Study of Pedestrians Proportion to Roadside Friction Index
Authors: Radjawane Louise Elizabeth
Published: September 2021

Activities of land use on the roadside have an impact on traffic. The more roadside activities increasingly affect the performance of the road section. This research was conducted on 2/2 UD type of road and the purpose of the study was to determine the effect of the proportion of roadside friction (pedestrians) to traffic characteristics and roadside friction index on access roads of Makassar Municipality and Gowa Regency. Greenshields model is used to determine the relationship between speed-flow-density. The results showed pedestrians are very influential in the average speed of space and free-flow speed. The greater the proportion of pedestrians as roadside friction, the value of the roadside friction index increases, but the value of the average speed of space and free flow speed decreases. Motorized vehicles will run slower to avoid or adjust to the pedestrian speed, especially light vehicles and heavy vehicles, yet the addition of the pedestrian does not significantly affect the movement of motorcycles.
Study on the Readiness of the Regional Government of South Sulawesi for the Mamminasata Urban Railway Project with Non-State Budget/Regional Budget Financing
Authors: Utama A G , Ramli I , Dwiatmoko H
Published: September 2021

Non-Budget Financing The government raises alternative sources of financing to be used to contribute the financing strategic national infrastructure projects that have commercial value and have an impact on improving the Indonesian economy. One example of this scheme is PPP (Government and Business Entity Cooperation). The purpose of this study was to see the readiness of the South Sulawesi regional government in the Mamminasata Urban Railway Project with Non-State Budget / Regional Budget Financing. It is believed that the Public-Private Partnership Scheme with Business Entities (PPP) was believed to be alternative financing that can improve infrastructure development and the efficiency of development implementation which creates the quality of a product and service in the distribution of capital and risk as well as the competence of human resource expertise together. It was hoped that the PPP Project in the construction of the Mamminasata Urban Railway Infrastructure could become a way out in Non-State Budget / Regional Budget financing and become a solution by the National Mid-Term Development Plan (NMTDP) and Regional Mid-Term Development Plan (RMTDP) to achieve the construction of a 3258 Km railway line. The suggestion put forward into this study is the government needs to establish a transportation management body that integrates all modes of transportation and manages commercial areas following the authority of the PJPK in increasing revenue for an investment return on Availability Payment (AP).
The Study of Land Use Change from Agricultural to Residential Infrastructure Development in Takalar
Authors: Aryadi R , Abdurrahman A , Maricar F
Published: September 2021

Agricultural land has a strategic role and function for Indonesian people who are agrarian. It is due to a large number of Indonesians who are depending on the agricultural sector. Thus, land does not only have economic value, but also social value. In the sustainable agricultural development, land is a limited natural resource because the number does not increase but the needs are always increasing. Currently there is a lot of unclear and irregular land management. Land use change is also arising in South Sulawesi, particularly Takalar district. The increasing need for space in urban areas causes high demand for land. The provision of land in the city center is increasingly limited and of course very expensive, so that urban development tends to "take" areas in the suburbs. One of the potential affected areas is the Takalar regency area as part of the MAMMINASATA area development plan (Makassar, Maros, Sungguminasa, Gowa and Takalar) which is currently being promoted. Recently, the changes in land use and function, which originally being served as a food land and turning out become the land for residential infrastructure, are issues that need serious attention against macro food threats. This research will provide an overview of the conversion mapping results of agricultural land that occurred in the Takalar district from 2012 to 2018.
The basic concepts of the sloping hollow breakwater model
Authors: Huddiankuwera A , Rachman T , Thaha M A , Dewa S
Published: September 2021

The breakwater is a beach construction structure that is used to anticipate and control abrasion. The structure of the wave damper has experienced significant developments. One of the structures of the wave damper is a hollow wave breaker. Hollow breakwater has a varied model, besides minimizing wave of reflection, it is also expected to reduce transmission waves. The reason is because of its ability to absorb wave energy and to reduce the energy of incoming waves. This research is a preliminary simulation as the basis for determining the sloping hollow breakwater model. The study was conducted experimentally in a laboratory with the variables studied include the wave period (T), wave height (H), and wavelength (L). Variable water level (d) is arrange with variations of 21, 24, and 27 cm and the model parameters are cylindrical cavity volume (S), square cavity volume (P), and the slope of the breakwater (a). The results of research based on the theory of wave attenuation and previous studies of the hollow/porous shoreline protection model show that the holes and cavities in the proposed model are expected to work to capture the orbital wave flow and reduce their energy in the cavity through the turbulence process.
Spatial mapping of water mass structure in the estuary of Jeneberang river
Authors: Karamma R , Pallu M S , Thaha M A , Hatta M P , Ihsan M
Published: September 2021

This paper presents a geographical information system approach in the description of water mass structure in the vicinity of Jeneberang river estuary. An ArcGIS application has been employed in developing such a description. Tidal effects are alleged to be the factor influencing flow circulation in the estuary, including flow velocity, water level profile, and saltwater intrusions. The research has been measured the element of water mass, including salinity, temperature, and density. The measurements are then charted in spatial models using ArcGISTM, presenting the distribution pattern of water mass structure as the effect of the tidal process.
Hybrid engineering on permeable groins to reduce the longshore current
Authors: Hafid H , Thaha M A , Maricar F , Bakri B
Published: September 2021

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of hybrid engineering technology to be applied to the groin to reduce longshore currents. The application of hybrid engineering as a breakwater and sediment trap in coastal areas has given good results so that it can be developed in permeable groin structures. The research method used is laboratory experimental with physical modeling to make prototypes and conduct tests on the wave flume to determine changes in current velocity against the existence of a hybrid engineering structure with several model scenarios by changing the characteristics of brushwood groin such as length and distance between groin to surface height. water. The expected result of this study is an engineering model of the permeable groin that can function as an efficient and effective hybrid engineering in reducing longshore currents.
Preliminary design of wave energy utilization model simulation for buoy type seawater pumps
Authors: Imran H A , Thaha M A , Hatta M P , Bakri B
Published: September 2021

This study aims to obtain a preliminary design of simulation of a wave-powered seawater pump model with a buoy & vertical motion piston. The concept works are the mechanism of pumping seawater through the piston push and the apparent motion of the buoy up and down by the waves. The hypothesis, that the flow rate and pumping head as research variables were strongly influenced by wave height and period (H & T). Also, it was estimated that it was influenced by the weight and dimensions of the buoy (W & A) and the diameter of the piston tube. Preliminary experiments are carried out to see the performance of the test model and select the experimental variable magnitudes that are adjusted to the capacity of the available equipment and the scale of the model for similarity needs to the prototype conditions. This study will use a wave flume of 15 m long, 30 cm wide, and 50 cm effective height. The wave characteristics of the model to be used are the wave period in 3 variations (T1: 1.3 seconds, T2: 1.4 seconds, T3: 1.5 seconds), the range of wave heights in 3 variations (4 cm, 5 cm, and 6 cm) and water depth in 3 variations (d1: 25 cm, d2: 27 cm, d3: 29 cm). From the simulation design of this model, it is expected that the equation of the discharge and the height of the pumping head will be formulated in the form of dimensionless parameter relationships.
The Infrastructure Performance of Wajo Regency’s Regional Water Company Based on Costumer’s Perceptions
Authors: Darwis I , Selintung M , Bakri B , Arai Y
Published: September 2021

Regional Water Company (PDAM) is a company that serves the clean water needs for Wajo Regency. Because there are still many customers’ complaints, it is deemed necessary to analyze the performance model of PDAM Wajo Regency infrastructure and analyze how to improve its performance. The data collection method used was a questionnaire by distributing to 155 PDAM Wajo Regency customers and then processed using the SPSS application. Based on the condition of the existing PDAM Wajo Regency infrastructure can be categorized as good. The infrastructure performance model of PDAM Wajo Regency based on customer perception is Y = −0,280 + 0.192X1 + 0.229X2 + 0.202X3 + 0.174X4 + 0.226X5, X1 is realiability variable, X2 is tangible variable, X3 is responsiveness variable, X4 is empathy variable, and X5 is assurance variable. Correlation coefficient (R) is 0.993. The assurance variable has the greatest influence at 28,216% performance for PDAM Wajo Regency infrastructure. The average performance of PDAM Wajo Regency infrastructure based on customer perception is 3.75 categorized as having a good performance. How to improve PDAM Wajo Regency performance is according to customer perceptions by developing a water treatment plan (IPA), replacing damaged distribution installations, replacing customers’ damaged water meters, replacing non-functioning main water meters, and replacing damage distribution pipes. regular metering and water tariff review, according to Permendagri Number 71 Year 2016. Training needs to be held for all employees to improve the quality of human resources of PDAM Wajo Regency.
Mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of high performance fiber-reinforced concrete with steel or amorphous alloy fibers
Authors: Li Y , Deng Y G
Published: September 2021

In the present study, steel fiber and amorphous alloy fiber were applied either single-added or hybrid-added to produce high performance fiber-reinforced concrete (HPC). The results showed that the flowability of fresh concrete was reduced and the compressive, splitting and flexural strength was increased by adding fibers to the mixture. However, the effect of amorphous alloy fiber was more pronounced due to the higher aspect ratio compared to steel fiber. Addition of amorphous alloy fiber improves the interfacial structure and results in a greater maximum pull-out load and bond strength, whereas, a smaller interfacial toughness as compared to crimple steel fibers. After wet/dry cycles, the flexural strength and bond strength was raised about 8% and 10% after 3 days experimental period, but reduced 10% and 15% after 30 days experimental period for steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC), however, has little difference for amorphous alloy fiber concrete (AAFRC). Additionally, the hybrid-fiber-reinforced concrete showed superior performance, especially the flexural property as compared to their single-fiber-reinforced counterparts due to combination effect of the two types of fibers which delay the formation of micro-cracks and macro-cracks, respectively.
Emotion in Fiction: State of the Art
Authors: Friend Stacie
Published: September 2021

In this paper, I review developments in discussions of fiction and emotion over the last decade concerning both the descriptive question of how to classify fiction-directed emotions and the normative question of how to evaluate those emotions. Although many advances have been made on these topics, a mistaken assumption is still common: that we must hold either that fiction-directed emotions are (empirically or normatively) the same as other emotions, or that they are different. I argue that we should reject this dichotomy.
MDF-SA-DDI: predicting drug–drug interaction events based on multi-source drug fusion, multi-source feature fusion and transformer self-attention mechanism
Authors: Lin Shenggeng , Wang Yanjing , Zhang Lingfeng , Chu Yanyi , Liu Yatong , Fang Yitian , Jiang Mingming , Wang Qiankun , Zhao Bowen , Xiong Yi , Wei Dong-Qing
Published: September 2021

One of the main problems with the joint use of multiple drugs is that it may cause adverse drug interactions and side effects that damage the body. Therefore, it is important to predict potential drug interactions. However, most of the available prediction methods can only predict whether two drugs interact or not, whereas few methods can predict interaction events between two drugs. Accurately predicting interaction events of two drugs is more useful for researchers to study the mechanism of the interaction of two drugs. In the present study, we propose a novel method, MDF-SA-DDI, which predicts drug–drug interaction (DDI) events based on multi-source drug fusion, multi-source feature fusion and transformer self-attention mechanism. MDF-SA-DDI is mainly composed of two parts: multi-source drug fusion and multi-source feature fusion. First, we combine two drugs in four different ways and input the combined drug feature representation into four different drug fusion networks (Siamese network, convolutional neural network and two auto-encoders) to obtain the latent feature vectors of the drug pairs, in which the two auto-encoders have the same structure, and their main difference is the number of neurons in the input layer of the two auto-encoders. Then, we use transformer blocks that include self-attention mechanism to perform latent feature fusion. We conducted experiments on three different tasks with two datasets. On the small dataset, the area under the precision–recall-curve (AUPR) and F1 scores of our method on task 1 reached 0.9737 and 0.8878, respectively, which were better than the state-of-the-art method. On the large dataset, the AUPR and F1 scores of our method on task 1 reached 0.9773 and 0.9117, respectively. In task 2 and task 3 of two datasets, our method also achieved the same or better performance as the state-of-the-art method. More importantly, the case studies on five DDI events are conducted and achieved satisfactory performance. The source codes and data are available at https://github.com/ShenggengLin/MDF-SA-DDI.
Aurora A Kinase (AURKA) is required for male germline maintenance and regulates sperm motility in the mouse.
Authors: Lester William C , Johnson Taylor , Hale Ben , Serra Nicholas , Elgart Brian , Wang Rong , Geyer Christopher B , Sperry Ann O
Published: September 2021

Aurora A kinase (AURKA) is an important regulator of cell division and is required for assembly of the mitotic spindle. We recently reported the unusual finding that this mitotic kinase is also found on the sperm flagellum. To determine its requirement in spermatogenesis, we generated conditional knockout animals with deletion of the Aurka gene in either spermatogonia or spermatocytes to assess its role in mitotic and postmitotic cells, respectively. Deletion of Aurka in spermatogonia resulted in disappearance of all developing germ cells in the testis, as expected, given its vital role in mitotic cell division. Deletion of Aurka in spermatocytes reduced testis size, sperm count, and fertility, indicating disruption of meiosis or an effect on spermiogenesis in developing mice. Interestingly, deletion of Aurka in spermatocytes increased apoptosis in spermatocytes along with an increase in the percentage of sperm with abnormal morphology. Despite the increase in abnormal sperm, sperm from spermatocyte Aurka knockout mice displayed increased progressive motility. In addition, sperm lysate prepared from Aurka knockout animals had decreased protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) activity. Together, our results show that AURKA plays multiple roles in spermatogenesis, from mitotic divisions of spermatogonia to sperm morphology and motility.
Data Science in Undergraduate Life Science Education: A Need for Instructor Skills Training
Authors: Emery Nathan C , Crispo Erika , Supp Sarah R , Farrell Kaitlin J , Kerkhoff Andrew J , Bledsoe Ellen K , O'Donnell Kelly L , McCall Andrew C , Aiello-Lammens Matthew E
Published: September 2021

There is a clear demand for quantitative literacy in the life sciences, necessitating competent instructors in higher education. However, not all instructors are versed in data science skills or research-based teaching practices. We surveyed biological and environmental science instructors (n = 106) about the teaching of data science in higher education, identifying instructor needs and illuminating barriers to instruction. Our results indicate that instructors use, teach, and view data management, analysis, and visualization as important data science skills. Coding, modeling, and reproducibility were less valued by the instructors, although this differed according to institution type and career stage. The greatest barriers were instructor and student background and space in the curriculum. The instructors were most interested in training on how to teach coding and data analysis. Our study provides an important window into how data science is taught in higher education biology programs and how we can best move forward to empower instructors across disciplines.
Effect of elective surgery cancellations during the COVID-19 pandemic on patients’ activity, anxiety and pain
Authors: Sims B M , Patel A D , Garnica B G , Faraj M T , Tang A , Parsons T , Hoegler J J , Day C S
Published: September 2021

Patient's perspectives and changes in symptoms after cancellation of their elective procedures due to the COVID-19 pandemic were analysed. Most patients experienced no change in symptoms, but women and black patients experienced adverse impacts at higher rates than other groups.
Random walks on weighted networks: a survey of local and non-local dynamics
Authors: Riascos A P , Mateos José L
Published: September 2021

In this article, we present a survey of different types of random walk models with local and non-local transitions on undirected weighted networks. We present a general approach by defining the dynamics as a discrete-time Markovian process with transition probabilities expressed in terms of a symmetric matrix of weights. In the first part, we describe the matrices of weights that define local random walk dynamics like the normal random walk, biased random walks and preferential navigation, random walks in the context of digital image processing and maximum entropy random walks. In addition, we explore non-local random walks, like Lévy flights on networks, fractional transport through the new formalism of fractional graph Laplacians, and applications in the context of human mobility. Explicit relations for the stationary probability distribution, the mean first passage time and global times to characterize random walks are obtained in terms of the elements of the matrix of weights and its respective eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Finally, we apply the results to the analysis of particular local and non-local random walk dynamics, and we discuss their capacity to explore several types of networks. Our results allow us to study and compare the global dynamics of different types of random walk models.
3D Analysis of maxillary incisor root inclinations in cases of unilateral maxillary canine impaction
Authors: Light Nathan , Chaushu Stella , Major Paul W , Flores-Mir Carlos
Published: September 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the association between maxillary incisor root inclinations and unilateral canine impaction.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional study of 59 pre-treatment CBCT scans (23 palatal impactions, 10 buccal impactions, and 26 comparison patients). Using Dolphin 3-D Imaging software (Chatsworth, CA), relative incisor angulations to a 3D palatal plane and the shortest distance between the canine crown and the root of the closest lateral incisor were calculated. A one-way analysis of variance was used to determine whether there were any differences between the three independent groups of impactions concerning the four continuous dependent variables incisor root inclination for each maxillary incisor.

Results

Patients with unilaterally impacted maxillary canines demonstrate significant differences in the root inclination position on the ipsilateral (0.0001 > P = 0.002) but not contralateral side. While palatal impactions (PIC) are associated with buccally positioned roots of the ipsilateral lateral (−9.05 degrees) and central incisors (−7.91 degrees), buccal impactions (BIC) are only associated with palatally positioned roots of the ipsilateral lateral incisors (+10.40 degrees) alone. A more labial position of the lateral incisor root was correlated with a more proximally located, coronally positioned, and medially displaced adjacent PIC (0.013 > P < 0.026).

Limitations

This is a retrospective cross-sectional convenience sample.

Conclusions

Patients with impacted maxillary canines, whether PIC or BIC, do not show generalized retroclination or proclination of all four maxillary incisor roots. Instead, changes in incisor root inclination were only ipsilateral to the impacted canine. BIC is only associated with palatal displacement of the ipsilateral lateral incisor root, whereas PIC is associated with labial root displacement of both ipsilateral incisors.
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and onset of chronic hypertension in France: the nationwide CONCEPTION study
Authors: Boucheron Pauline , Lailler Grégory , Moutengou Elodie , Regnault Nolwenn , Gabet Amélie , Deneux-Tharaux Catherine , Kretz Sandrine , Grave Clémence , Mounier-Vehier Claire , Tsatsaris Vassilis , Plu-Bureau Geneviève , Blacher Jacques , Olié Valérie
Published: September 2021

Aims 

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are a leading cause of maternal and foetal morbidity and mortality. We aimed to estimate the impact of HDP on the onset of chronic hypertension in primiparous women in the first years following childbirth.

Methods and results 

This nationwide cohort study used data from the French National Health Data System (SNDS). All eligible primiparous women without pre-existing chronic hypertension who delivered between 2010 and 2018 were included. Women were followed up from six weeks post-partum until onset of hypertension, a cardiovascular event, death, or the study end date (31 December 2018). The main outcome was a diagnosis of chronic hypertension. We used Cox models to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) of chronic hypertension for all types of HDP. Overall, 2 663 573 women were included with a mean follow-up time of 3.0 years. Among them, 180 063 (6.73%) had an HDP. Specifically 66 260 (2.16%) had pre-eclampsia (PE) and 113 803 (4.27%) had gestational hypertension (GH). Compared with women who had no HDP, the fully adjusted HRs of chronic hypertension were 6.03 [95% confidence interval (CI) 5.89–6.17] for GH, 8.10 (95% CI 7.88–8.33) for PE (all sorts), 12.95 (95% CI 12.29–13.65) for early PE, 9.90 (95% CI 9.53–10.28) for severe PE, and 13.17 (95% CI 12.74–13.60) for PE following GH. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy exposure duration was an additional risk factor of chronic hypertension for all PE subgroups. Women with HDP consulted a general practitioner or cardiologist more frequently and earlier.

Conclusion 

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy exposure greatly increased the risk of chronic hypertension in the first years following delivery.
Trend of antibiotic consumption and its association with influenza-like illnesses in France between 2004 and 2018
Authors: Yaacoub Sally , Lanoy Emilie , Hider-Mlynarz Karima , Saleh Nadine , Maison Patrick
Published: September 2021

Background

Antibiotic consumption has been reported to be driven by the treatment of respiratory tract infections. Our objectives were to describe the trend of antibiotic consumption in France compared with that of other European countries; to describe the evolution of each antibiotic class in France; and to explore the relationship between antibiotic consumption and incidence of influenza-like illnesses.

Methods

In this observational study, antibiotic consumption was reported as defined daily doses per 1000 inhabitants per day in the community and hospital sectors in descriptive and graphical formats, using data from the European Surveillance of Antimicrobial Consumption Network database. The total consumption and the consumption of different classes of antibiotics in France according to time and influenza-like illnesses were studied using multiple linear regression models.

Results

The total consumption of antibiotics in France was constant over the 15 years. It was driven by the community sector (92.8%) and was higher than the consumption of other European Union countries (P-value < 0.001). The beta-lactam penicillins were the most consumed antibiotic class and the only class that increased with time. The multiple linear regression models showed a positive correlation between antibiotic consumption in the community sector and incidence of influenza-like illnesses [B = 0.170, 95% CI (0.088–0.252)]. Similar significant results were shown between other antibiotic classes used in the management of influenza-like illnesses (other beta-lactams, and macrolides, lincosamides and streptogramins) and influenza-like illnesses.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that antibiotics used in the management of respiratory tract infections might be involved in the irrational use of antibiotics.
QTL mapping for bioenergy traits in sweet sorghum recombinant inbred lines
Authors: Souza Vander Fillipe de , Pereira Guilherme da Silva , Pastina Maria Marta , Parrella Rafael Augusto da Costa , Simeone Maria Lúcia Ferreira , Barros Beatriz de Almeida , Noda Roberto Willians , da Costa e Silva Luciano , Magalhães Jurandir Vieira de , Schaffert Robert Eugene , Garcia Antonio Augusto Franco , Damasceno Cynthia Maria Borges
Published: September 2021

During the past decade, sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor Moench L.) has shown great potential for bioenergy production, especially biofuels. In this study, 223 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between two sweet sorghum lines (Brandes × Wray) were evaluated in three trials. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) derived from genotyping by sequencing of 272 RILs were used to build a high-density genetic map comprising 3,767 SNPs spanning 1,368.83 cM. Multitrait multiple interval mapping (MT-MIM) was carried out to map quantitative trait loci (QTL) for eight bioenergy traits. A total of 33 QTLs were identified for flowering time, plant height, total soluble solids and sucrose (five QTLs each), fibers (four QTLs), and fresh biomass yield, juice extraction yield, and reducing sugars (three QTLs each). QTL hotspots were found on chromosomes 1, 3, 6, 9, and 10, in addition to other QTLs detected on chromosomes 4 and 8. We observed that 14 out of the 33 mapped QTLs were found in all three trials. Upon further development and validation in other crosses, the results provided by the present study have a great potential to be used in marker-assisted selection in sorghum breeding programs for biofuel production.
Communication Partner Engagement: A Relevant Factor for Functional Outcomes in Speech–Language Therapy for Aphasic Dementia
Authors: Rogalski Emily , Roberts Angela , Salley Elizabeth , Saxon Marie , Fought Angela , Esparza Marissa , Blaze Erin , Coventry Christina , Mesulam Marek-Marsel , Weintraub Sandra , Mooney Aimee , Khayum Becky , Rademaker Alfred
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Previous reports established the feasibility of a telehealth model for delivering speech–language therapy via Internet videoconferencing, which connects individuals with primary progressive aphasia (PPA) to an expert speech and language pathologist for treatment. This study reports feasibility of the same telehealth intervention in a larger set of progressive aphasia participants and explores factors potentially influencing functional intervention outcomes.

Methods

Participants with PPA or progressive aphasia in the context of a neurodegenerative dementia syndrome and their communication partners were enrolled into an 8-session intervention, with 3 evaluations (baseline, 2 months, and 6 months postenrollment). Half of the participants were randomized into a “check-in” group and received 3-monthly half-hour sessions postintervention. Mixed linear models with post hoc testing and percent change in area under the curve were used to examine communication confidence over time, as well as the influence of check-in sessions and the role of communication partner engagement on communication confidence.

Results

Communication confidence improved at the 2-month evaluation and showed no significant decline at the 6-month evaluation. Item-level analysis revealed gains in communication confidence across multiple communication contexts. Gains and maintenance of communication confidence were only present for the engaged communication partner group and were not bolstered by randomization to the check-in group.

Discussion

Internet-based, person-centered interventions demonstrate promise as a model for delivering speech–language therapy to individuals living with PPA. Maintenance is possible for at least 6 months postenrollment and is better for those with engaged communication partners, which supports the use of dyadic interventions.
Convergence of graph Laplacian with kNN self-tuned kernels
Authors: Cheng Xiuyuan , Wu Hau-Tieng
Published: September 2021

Kernelized Gram matrix $W$ constructed from data points $\{x_i\}_{i=1}^N$ as $W_{ij}= k_0( \frac{ \| x_i - x_j \|^2} {\sigma ^2} ) $ is widely used in graph-based geometric data analysis and unsupervised learning. An important question is how to choose the kernel bandwidth $\sigma $, and a common practice called self-tuned kernel adaptively sets a $\sigma _i$ at each point $x_i$ by the $k$-nearest neighbor (kNN) distance. When $x_i$s are sampled from a $d$-dimensional manifold embedded in a possibly high-dimensional space, unlike with fixed-bandwidth kernels, theoretical results of graph Laplacian convergence with self-tuned kernels have been incomplete. This paper proves the convergence of graph Laplacian operator $L_N$ to manifold (weighted-)Laplacian for a new family of kNN self-tuned kernels $W^{(\alpha )}_{ij} = k_0( \frac{ \| x_i - x_j \|^2}{ \epsilon \hat{\rho }(x_i) \hat{\rho }(x_j)})/\hat{\rho }(x_i)^\alpha \hat{\rho }(x_j)^\alpha $, where $\hat{\rho }$ is the estimated bandwidth function by kNN and the limiting operator is also parametrized by $\alpha $. When $\alpha = 1$, the limiting operator is the weighted manifold Laplacian $\varDelta _p$. Specifically, we prove the point-wise convergence of $L_N f $ and convergence of the graph Dirichlet form with rates. Our analysis is based on first establishing a $C^0$ consistency for $\hat{\rho }$ which bounds the relative estimation error $|\hat{\rho } - \bar{\rho }|/\bar{\rho }$ uniformly with high probability, where $\bar{\rho } = p^{-1/d}$ and $p$ is the data density function. Our theoretical results reveal the advantage of the self-tuned kernel over the fixed-bandwidth kernel via smaller variance error in low-density regions. In the algorithm, no prior knowledge of $d$ or data density is needed. The theoretical results are supported by numerical experiments on simulated data and hand-written digit image data.
Trade Unions and Platform Workers in the UK: Worker Representation in the Shadow of the Law
Authors: Bertolini Alessio , Dukes Ruth
Published: September 2021

Drawing on a series of interviews with key actors including representatives of the main trade unions, this paper considers the response of unions in the UK to the emergence and growth of platform work. Comparing the partly different strategies adopted by traditional and alternative unions in respect of the representation of platform workers’ interests, it demonstrates that the unions’ choices have been shaped by the characteristics and resources of the unions themselves, by prevailing political conditions and, perhaps above all, by the restrictive legal framework that excludes many platform workers from the scope of employment legislation. Without recourse to either a legally protected freedom to take industrial action or the statutory recognition procedure, unions have only exceptionally been able to negotiate collective agreements on behalf of platform workers. Instead, traditional unions have focussed on broader political strategies to fight precariousness, including wielding an influence on policymaking, especially through their relations with the Labour Party. Alternative unions have channelled resources into organising and mobilising platform workers and supporting them in campaigning, protesting and bringing strategic litigation.
A Sensitive Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method Based on Derivatization with 1-Nitro-2-Naphthaldehyde for Determination of Alkylhydrazines in Surface Water
Authors: Oh Jin-Ah , Shin Ho-Sang , Lim Hyun-Hee
Published: September 2021

Background

Alkylhydrazines are widely used in industrial fields. An analysis of alkylhydrazines in surface water is needed because these chemicals are likely to be discharged into wastewater and enter aquatic environments.

Objective

An ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC)–tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) method was developed to determine the levels of five alkylhydrazines (N, N-dimethylhydrazine, ethylhydrazine, 1-isopropylhydrazine, phenylhydrazine, and 1-methyl-1-phenylhydrazine) in surface water.

Methods

This method is based on the derivatization of alkylhydrazines with 1-nitro-2-naphthaldehyde (NNA) in water. A derivatization reagent dosage of 0.5 mg NNA, a pH of 2, and a reaction time of 30 min at 40°C were determined to be the optimal conditions for UHPLC–MS/MS detection. The derivatives were injected into the LC system without additional extraction or purification steps.

Results

The proposed method was used under optimized conditions to detect alkylhydrazines in surface water, with the limit of quantification found to be 0.01–0.03 μg/L. The accuracy ranged from 91.0 to 106.0%, and the precision, expressed as the relative standard deviation, was less than 10%. Of the five alkylhydrazines, only N, N-dimethyl hydrazine was detected in the real samples at a concentration range of 0.010–0.041 μg/L.

Conclusion

The developed method can be used to confirm the presence of alkylhydrazine residues in surface water and represents an important tool for evaluating the fate of alkylhydrazines in surface water.

Highlights

A UHPLC-MSMS method was developed in order to dtermine the alkylhydrazine in surface water after derivatization without an extraction or cleanup step.
Comparing ELISA and LC–MS-MS: A Simple, Targeted Postmortem Blood Screen
Authors: Swanson Dina M , Pearson Julia M , Evans-Nguyen Theresa
Published: September 2021

A comprehensive screening method that is specific, accurate and customizable is necessary in any forensic toxicology laboratory. Most laboratories utilize some form of immunoassay testing as it is reliable and sensitive with minimal sample preparation and is relatively inexpensive to simultaneously screen for multiple classes of drugs with different chemical properties. However, accessibility to more specific technology and instrumentation such as mass spectrometry has increased and therefore using immunoassay as the screening method of choice may be revisited. A screening method for 42 drugs in postmortem blood was developed and validated following the Organization of Scientific Area Committees for Forensic Science guidelines for toxicology method validation. The method was developed using minimal sample preparation of postmortem blood consisting only of a protein precipitation. Only two internal standards were used, which greatly reduces the cost of implementing this method. Limit of detection, interference studies, processed sample stability and ion suppression/enhancement were examined. Additionally, over 100 case samples were analyzed by both the current enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) testing procedure and the proposed liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS-MS) screening method. The comparison determined that the LC–MS-MS method performed as well as or better than the ELISA in nearly all cases. The ability to add additional target drugs increases the laboratory’s scope of analysis as well. This method is ideal for forensic laboratories wishing to improve screening while working within budget constraints.
Circ_0000514 promotes breast cancer progression by regulating the miR-296-5p/CXCL10 axis
Authors: Li Liangping , Feng Gang , Chen Tao , Zhang Lijun
Published: September 2021

The biological function of circular RNA 0000514 (circ_0000514) in breast cancer (bc) is still unknown. In this study, we downloaded the microarray dataset GSE101123 from Gene Expression Omnibus database and then analysed the differentially expressed circular RNAs in bc tissues compared with adjacent tissues, and we demonstrated that circ_0000514 was up-regulated in bc tissues. Circ_0000514, miR-296-5p and CXC chemokine ligand10 (CXCL10) expressions in bc tissues and cell lines were probed by quantitativereal-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Cell counting kit-8, 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine and transwell assays were adopted to determine the cell viability, proliferation, migration and invasion. The targeting relationship between miR-296-5p and circ_0000514 or CXCL10 3′-UTR was predicted by bioinformatics and validated by dual-luciferase reporter assay. We demonstrated that circ_0000514 and CXCL10 expressions were raised in bc tissues and cell lines while miR-296-5p expression was declined. Circ_0000514 knockdown could inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion of bc cells and miR-296-5p overexpression also suppressed the malignant phenotypes of bc cells. Mechanistically, miR-296-5p was identified as the downstream target of circ_0000514 and could be inhibited by circ_0000514. Moreover, CXCL10 was the target of miR-296-5p, whose expression could be indirectly and positively regulated by circ_0000514. In conclusion, circ_0000514 is involved in bc progression via regulating miR-296-5p/CXCL10 axis.
The Impact of Burn Survivor Preinjury Income and Payer Status on Health-Related Quality of Life
Authors: Sheckter Clifford C , Carrougher Gretchen J , Wolf Steven E , Schneider Jeffrey C , Gibran Nicole , Stewart Barclay T
Published: September 2021

The costs required to provide acute care for patients with serious burn injuries are significant. In the United States, these costs are often shared by patients. However, the impacts of preinjury finances on health-related quality of life (HRQL) have been poorly characterized. We hypothesized that lower income and public payers would be associated with poorer HRQL. Burn survivors with complete data for preinjury personal income and payer status were extracted from the longitudinal Burn Model System National Database. HRQL outcomes were measured with VR-12 scores at 6, 12, and 24 months postinjury. VR-12 scores were evaluated using generalized linear models, adjusting for potential confounders (eg, age, sex, self-identified race, burn injury severity). About 453 participants had complete data for income and payer status. More than one third of BMS participants earned less than $25,000/year (36%), 24% earned $25,000 to 49,000/year, 23% earned $50,000 to 99,000/year, 11% earned $100,000 to 149,000/year, 3% earned $150,000 to 199,000/year, and 4% earned more than $200,000/year. VR-12 mental component summary (MCS) and physical component summary (PCS) scores were highest for those who earned $150,000 to 199,000/year (55.8 and 55.8) and lowest for those who earned less than $25,000/year (49.0 and 46.4). After adjusting for demographics, payer, and burn severity, 12-month MCS and PCS and 24-month PCS scores were negatively associated with Medicare payer (P < .05). Low income was not significantly associated with lower VR-12 scores. There was a peaking relationship between HRQL and middle-class income, but this trend was not significant after adjusting for covariates. Public payers, particularly Medicare, were independently associated with poorer HRQL. The findings might be used to identify those at risk of financial toxicity for targeting assistance during rehabilitation.
Social Exchange of Motivated Beliefs
Authors: Oprea Ryan , Yuksel Sevgi
Published: September 2021

We use laboratory experiments to study whether biases in beliefs grow more severe when people socially exchange these beliefs with one another. We elicit subjects’ (naturally biased) beliefs about their relative performance in an intelligence quotient (IQ) test and allow them to update these beliefs in real time. Part of the way through the task we give each subject access to the beliefs of a counterpart who performed similarly on the test and allow them both to observe the evolution of one another’s beliefs. We find that subjects respond to one another’s beliefs in a highly asymmetric way, causing a severe amplification of subjects’ initial bias. We find no such patterns in response to objective public signals or in control treatments without social exchange or scope for motivated beliefs. We also provide evidence that the pattern is difficult to reconcile with Bayesianism and standard versions of confirmation bias. Overall, our results suggest that bias amplification is likely driven by “motivated assignment of accuracy” to others’ beliefs: subjects selectively attribute higher informational value to social signals that reinforce their motivation.