bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of a Psychoeducational Group Intervention Carried Out by Nurses for Patients with Depression and Physical Comorbidity in Primary Care: Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Raya-Tena Antonia , Fernández-San-Martin María Isabel , Martin-Royo Jaume , Casañas Rocío , Sauch-Valmaña Glòria , Cols-Sagarra Cèlia , Navas-Mendez Elena , Masa-Font Roser , Casajuana-Closas Marc , Foguet-Boreu Quintí , Fernández-Linares Eva María , Mendioroz-Peña Jacobo , González-Tejón Susana , Martín-López Luis Miguel , Jiménez-Herrera María Francisca
Published: March 2021

The association between physical illness and depression implies a poorer management of chronic disease and a lower response to antidepressant treatments. Our study evaluates the effectiveness of a psychoeducational group intervention led by Primary Care (PC) nurses, aimed at patients of this kind. It is a randomized, multicenter clinical trial with intervention (IG) and control groups (CG), blind response variables, and a one year follow-up. The study included 380 patients ≥50 years of age from 18 PC teams. The participants presented depression (BDI-II > 12) and a physical comorbidity: diabetes mellitus type 2, ischemic heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and/or asthma. The IG (n = 204) received the psychoeducational intervention (12 weekly sessions of 90 min), and the CG (n = 176) had standard care. The patients were evaluated at baseline, and at 4 and 12 months. The main outcome measures were clinical remission of depressive symptoms (BDI-II ≤ 13) and therapeutic response (reduction of depressive symptoms by 50%). Remission was not significant at four months. At 12 months it was 53.9% in the IG and 41.5% in the CG. (OR = 0.61, 95% CI, 0.49–0.76). At 4 months the response in the IG (OR = 0.59, 95% CI, 0.44–0.78) was significant, but not at 12 months. The psychoeducational group intervention led by PC nurses for individuals with depression and physical comorbidity has been shown to be effective for remission at long-term and for therapeutic response at short-term.
The Long-Term Effect of Preterm Birth on Renal Function: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Heo Ju Sun , Lee Jiwon M.
Published: March 2021

The preterm-born adult population is ever increasing following improved survival rates of premature births. We conducted a meta-analysis to investigate long-term effects of preterm birth on renal function in preterm-born survivors. We searched PubMed and EMBASE to identify studies that compared renal function in preterm-born survivors and full-term-born controls, published until 2 February 2019. A random effects model with standardized mean difference (SMD) was used for meta-analyses. Heterogeneity of the studies was evaluated using Higgin’s I2 statistics. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa quality assessment scale. Of a total of 24,388 articles screened, 27 articles were finally included. Compared to full-term-born controls, glomerular filtration rate and effective renal plasma flow were significantly decreased in preterm survivors (SMD −0.54, 95% confidence interval (CI), −0.85 to −0.22, p = 0.0008; SMD −0.39, 95% CI, −0.74 to −0.04, p = 0.03, respectively). Length and volume of the kidneys were significantly decreased in the preterm group compared to the full-term controls (SMD −0.73, 95% CI, −1.04 to −0.41, p < 0.001; SMD −0.82, 95% CI, −1.05 to −0.60, p < 0.001, respectively). However, serum levels of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and cystatin C showed no significant difference. The urine microalbumin to creatinine ratio was significantly increased in the preterm group. Both systolic and diastolic blood pressures were also significantly elevated in the preterm group, although the plasma renin level did not differ. This meta-analysis demonstrates that preterm-born survivors may be subject to decreased glomerular filtration, increased albuminuria, decreased kidney size and volume, and hypertension even though their laboratory results may not yet deteriorate.
Depressive Symptoms and Healthy Behavior Frequency in Polish Postmenopausal Women from Urban and Rural Areas
Authors: Gujski Mariusz , Raczkiewicz Dorota , Humeniuk Ewa , Sarecka-Hujar Beata , Wdowiak Artur , Bojar Iwona
Published: March 2021

The objective of this study was to determine whether the severity of depressive symptoms was linked to healthy behaviors in Polish postmenopausal women and whether the strength of the link differed between women living in urban versus rural settings. The study was conducted in 2018 in the Lublin region of Poland and included 396 postmenopausal women (239 living in rural areas and 157 in urban areas). The severity of depressive symptoms was evaluated by the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the frequency of healthy behaviors was assessed using the Inventory of Healthy Behaviors. Postmenopausal women living in rural areas underwent menopause significantly earlier, were more often widowed, more often obese, more often less educated, and less likely to have never married when compared to those living in urban areas. Importantly, rural postmenopausal women endorsed more depressive symptoms (p = 0.049). There was a negative correlation between the severity of depressive symptoms and age in urban postmenopausal women (r = −0.174, p = 0.029), but this was not evident in rural women (r = −0.034, p = 0.600). The frequency of healthy behaviors was significantly lower in rural postmenopausal women, especially with respect to nutritional habits. A positive correlation was found between the frequency of healthy behaviors and the level of education in both sets of women (p = 0.034 and p = 0.045, respectively). To summarize, we found a significant link between healthy behaviors and depressive symptoms in postmenopausal women. We also found that this link was more evident in rural than in urban women.
Ego-Resiliency and Perceived Social Support in Late Childhood: A Latent Growth Modeling Approach
Authors: Chen Qishan , Gao Wenyang , Chen Bin-Bin , Kong Yurou , Lu Liuying , Yang Shuting
Published: March 2021

This study explored the change trajectory of schoolchildren’s ego-resiliency and perceived social support and investigated the effect of perceived social support on ego-resiliency across four time points. A sample of 437 children aged 8–13 years (M = 10.99, SD = 0.70, 51.5% boys) completed assessments at four time points. The results indicated that ego-resiliency showed an increasing linear trend and perceived social support showed a declining linear trend. Perceived social support had a positive effect on ego-resiliency over time. In addition, the initial status of perceived social support negatively predicted the growth trend of ego-resiliency, and the initial status of ego-resiliency negatively predicted the declining trend of perceived social support. The implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Fuzzy Optimization for the Remediation of Ammonia: A Case Study Based on Electrochemical Oxidation
Authors: Choi Angelo Earvin Sy , Ensano Benny Marie B. , Yee Jurng-Jae
Published: March 2021

This case study covers the application of the fuzzy optimization in simultaneously satisfying various constraints that include the compliance of ammonia and nitrate concentrations with stringent environmental standards. Essential components in the multi-criteria decision-making analysis is in the utilization of the Box-Behnken design (BBD) response equations, cost equations and the cumulative uncertainty of response towards the sodium chloride dosage, current density and electrolysis time parameters. The energy consumption in the electrochemical oxidation of ammonia plays an essential role in influencing the total operating cost analysis. The determination of boundary limits based on the global optimum resulted in the complete ammonia removal and USD 64.0 operating cost as its maximum boundary limits and the 40.6% ammonia removal and USD 17.1 as its minimum boundary limits. Based on the fuzzy optimal results, the overall satisfaction level incurred a decrease in adhering with a lower ammonia standard concentration (10 mg/L at 80.3% vs. 1.9 mg/L at 76.1%) due to a higher energy consumption requirement. Global optimal fuzzy results showed to be highly cost efficient (232.5% lower) as compared to using BBD alone. This demonstrates the practicality of fuzzy optimization applications in the electrochemical reactions.
Influence of Cooperative Learning Intervention on the Intrinsic Motivation of Physical Education Students—A Meta-Analysis within a Limited Range
Authors: Liu Taofeng , Lipowski Mariusz
Published: March 2021

This study was conducted to explore physical education students’ intrinsic motivation and clarify the influence mechanism of cooperative learning methods on learning intrinsic motivation through meta-analysis. In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) criteria, we screened literature from the years 2000–2020. The included literature underwent bias analysis on the basis of the five criteria proposed herein. Data were extracted and summarized from the included literature to analyze the causality before and after cooperative learning intervention. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine principal factors affecting physical education students’ learning intrinsic motivation. Simultaneously, the influencing mechanism of cooperative learning on physical education students’ intrinsic motivation was clarified. Results revealed that intrinsic motivation had a high total effect amount. In the experimental group, only three documents determined the significant influence of cooperative learning on physical education students’ intrinsic motivation. Moreover, the time and age differences needed to be considered thoroughly during the intervention. Therefore, cooperative learning intervention can improve physical education students’ intrinsic motivation significantly, and meta-analysis provided a theoretical foundation for applying cooperative learning to the teaching of physical education majors.
Effect of Distance to Trauma Centre, Trauma Centre Level, and Trauma Centre Region on Fatal Injuries among Motorcyclists in Taiwan
Authors: Wiratama Bayu Satria , Chen Ping-Ling , Chao Chung-Jen , Wang Ming-Heng , Saleh Wafaa , Lin Hui-An , Pai Chih-Wei
Published: March 2021

Background: Studies have suggested that trauma centre-related risk factors, such as distance to the nearest trauma hospital, are strong predictors of fatal injuries among motorists. Few studies have used a national dataset to study the effect of trauma centre-related risk factors on fatal injuries among motorists and motorcyclists in a country where traffic is dominated by motorcycles. This study investigated the effect of distance from the nearest trauma hospital on fatal injuries from two-vehicle crashes in Taiwan from 2017 to 2019. Methods: A crash dataset and hospital location dataset were combined. The crash dataset was extracted from the National Taiwan Traffic Crash Dataset from 1 January 2017 through 31 December 2019. The primary exposure in this study was distance to the nearest trauma hospital. This study performed a multiple logistic regression to calculate the adjusted odds ratios (AORs) for fatal injuries. Results: The multivariate logistic regression models indicated that motorcyclists involved in crashes located ≥5 km from the nearest trauma hospital and in Eastern Taiwan were approximately five times more likely to sustain fatal injuries (AOR = 5.26; 95% CI: 3.69–7.49). Conclusions: Distance to, level of, and region of the nearest trauma centre are critical risk factors for fatal injuries among motorcyclists but not motorists. To reduce the mortality rate of trauma cases among motorcyclists, interventions should focus on improving access to trauma hospitals.
The Mediating Role of Lean Soft Tissue in the Relationship between Somatic Maturation and Bone Density in Adolescent Practitioners and Non-Practitioners of Sports
Authors: Agostinete Ricardo R. , Werneck André O. , Maillane-Vanegas Santiago , Gracia-Marco Luis , Ubago-Guisado Esther , Constable Annie M. , Fernandes Romulo A. , Vlachopoulos Dimitris
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to identify the mediating effect of lean soft tissue (LST) in the association between somatic maturation and areal bone mineral density (aBMD) in adolescents by sex and sport participation. The sample included 558 adolescents (401 males, mean age of 14.0 years) that were practitioners of sports (11 sport modalities, n = 402) and a non-sport group (n = 157). Somatic maturation was assessed by using a validated peak height velocity prediction equation. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used to assess aBMD (upper and lower limbs, spine and total body less head—TBLH) and LST. For both sexes, LST mediated the association between somatic maturation and aBMD at all skeletal sites (mediation percentage ranging from 36.3% to 75.4%). For sport and non-sport groups, the LST also mediated the association between somatic maturation and aBMD at all skeletal sites (mediation percentage ranging from 51.6% to 85.6%). The direct effect was observed in all groups, except for lower limbs and TBLH in the non-sport group. The association between somatic maturation and aBMD was mediated by LST in adolescents of both sexes and regardless of involvement in organized sports. Our findings highlighted the role of improving LST to mitigate the association of somatic maturation with aBMD.
Prenatal Exposure to Parabens Affects Birth Outcomes through Maternal Glutathione S-Transferase (GST) Polymorphisms: From the Mothers and Kids Environmental Health (MAKE) Study
Authors: Shin Bohye , Kwon Jeoung A. , Park Eun Kyo , Kang Sora , Kim Seyoung , Park Eunyoung , Kim Byungmi
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Human exposure to parabens is very common in daily life, and prenatal exposure to these chemicals is associated with poor birth outcomes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of glutathione S-transferase (GST) polymorphisms on the association between prenatal exposure to parabens and birth outcomes. Methods: We conducted a multivariate analysis involving 177 subjects to determine the association between paraben concentrations and birth outcomes in mothers with GST mu 1 (GSTM1) and GST theta 1 (GSTT1) polymorphisms from 2017 to 2019. Furthermore, we determined the interactive effect between paraben levels and GSTM1/GSTT1 polymorphisms using regression analysis, in addition to a generalized linear model after stratifying GSTM1/GSTT1 genotype into three categories. Results: Methyl and propyl paraben concentrations were significantly and positively associated with birth weight (methyl, β = 116.525, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 22.460–210.590; propyl, β = 82.352, 95% CI = 9.147–155.557) in individuals with the GSTM1-null genotype. Moreover, the propyl paraben concentration was significantly associated with an increase in gestational age (β = 0.312, 95% CI = 0.085–0.539) in individuals with the GSTM1-null genotype. Conclusions: This study reported the association between prenatal paraben exposure and birth outcomes in individuals with GST polymorphisms. We found positive relationships of maternal exposure to methyl parabens with birth weight in both mothers with GSTM1 and GSTT1-null genotypes.
The Role of Nutritional Factors in Asthma: Challenges and Opportunities for Epidemiological Research
Authors: Bédard Annabelle , Li Zhen , Ait-hadad Wassila , Camargo Carlos A. , Leynaert Bénédicte , Pison Christophe , Dumas Orianne , Varraso Raphaëlle
Published: March 2021

The prevalence of asthma has nearly doubled over the last decades. Twentieth century changes in environmental and lifestyle factors, including changes in dietary habits, physical activity and the obesity epidemic, have been suggested to play a role in the increase of asthma prevalence and uncontrolled asthma worldwide. A large body of evidence has suggested that obesity is a likely risk factor for asthma, but mechanisms are still unclear. Regarding diet and physical activity, the literature remains inconclusive. Although the investigation of nutritional factors as a whole (i.e., the “diet, physical activity and body composition” triad) is highly relevant in terms of understanding underlying mechanisms, as well as designing effective public health interventions, their combined effects across the life course has not received a lot of attention. In this review, we discuss the state of the art regarding the role of nutritional factors in asthma, for each window of exposure. We focus on the methodological and conceptual challenges encountered in the investigation of the complex time-dependent interrelations between nutritional factors and asthma and its control, and their interaction with other determinants of asthma. Lastly, we provide guidance on how to address these challenges, as well as suggestions for future research.
The Impact of Physical Education Based on the Adventure Education Programme on Self-Esteem and Social Competences of Adolescent Boys
Authors: Koszałka-Silska Agnieszka , Korcz Agata , Wiza Agata
Published: March 2021

The objective of this study is to analyse the impact of physical education based on the adventure education programme on the social competences of adolescent boys. The participants (n = 70) were 1st grade high school students between 15 and 16 years old. Adolescents’ social competences were measured using the Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) and Social Competence Questionnaire (SCQ) before and after the intervention. An experimental repeated-measures design was used, with a comparison group. ANOVA (2 × 2) for interaction group x time showed statistical significance in competences revealed in situations of social exposure (F1, 68 = 5.16, p < 0.05, partial η2 = 0.07) and competences revealed in situations requiring assertiveness (F1, 68 = 4.73, p < 0.05, partial η2 = 0.07). Using the adventure education (AE) programme may be recommended as a way of developing social skill competences revealed in situations of social exposure and competences revealed in situations requiring the assertiveness of adolescents through physical activity that can be easily integrated into the school environment.
Investigating the Critical Factors of Professionals’ BIM Adoption Behavior Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Wu Zezhou , Jiang Mingyang , Li Heng , Luo Xiaochun , Li Xiaoying
Published: March 2021

In recent years, building information modeling (BIM) has been receiving growing interest from the construction industry of China. Nevertheless, although BIM has many foreseeable advantages, many studies claimed that these advantages have not been sufficiently achieved in practice at the current stage. In this circumstance, it is interesting to investigate what really drives the adoption of BIM. Based on Ajzen’s theory of planned behavior (TPB), a hypothetical model which involves nine latent variables is initially established. Then, a questionnaire is designed and distributed to the construction professionals in the Chinese context. After reliability and validity analysis, the goodness-of-fit of the initial model and the related theoretical assumptions are tested through structural equation modeling (SEM). Based on the modification indicators, a modified model is finally derived. Results show that economic viability and governmental supervision are the most critical factors that influence construction professionals’ BIM adoption behavior in China, sharing weights of 0.37 and 0.34, respectively, whereas other factors play limited roles in this regard. The research findings revealed from this study can provide insightful references for countries that intend to promote BIM adoption in a similar circumstance.
User Perception on Key Performance Indicators in an In-Service Office Building
Authors: Pestana Teresa , Flores-Colen Inês , Pinheiro Manuel Duarte , Sajjadian Seyed Masoud
Published: March 2021

A holistic understanding of the correlations between supply and demand in buildings forms the basis for their performance assessment. This paper aims to reinterpret a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that influence users’ satisfaction from different perspectives. Fieldwork was carried out in an office building following a detailed review on KPIs by conducting user surveys. This study highlights the need to organize specific indicators to focus on the usability of workplaces and, where and when required, through an iterative process, understand the user perception of performance indicators in usage conditions. This methodology is applicable for organizations to understand the main existing in-service problems, and could improve the building’s performance over time. Survey results showed that hygiene was the most recognizable influence on users’ satisfaction and indoor air quality was the less well-known in the assessment results. User perception results can be compared to other office buildings results to benchmark good practices and should also be investigated for the post-COVID-19 period.
What Effect Do Pulmonary Micronodules Detected at Presentation in Patients with Osteosarcoma Have on 5-Year Overall Survival?
Authors: Davison Reid , Hamati Fadi , Kent Paul
Published: March 2021

For osteosarcoma, staging criteria, prognosis estimates, and surgical recommendations have not yet changed to reflect increasingly sensitive computed tomography (CT) imaging. However, the frequent identification of micronodules (<5 mm) on presentation leaves clinicians in a difficult position regarding the need to biopsy, resect, or follow the lesions and whether to consider the patient metastatic or non-metastatic. Our objective was to compare the 5-year overall survival rates of patients with osteosarcoma with non-surgically resected lung micronodules on presentation to patients without micronodules to guide community oncologists faced with this common dilemma. We collected data retrospectively on all newly diagnosed osteosarcoma patients, aged less than 50, treated at Rush University Hospital over 25 years without pulmonary nodules >10 mm or pulmonary surgical intervention. Kaplan–Meier curves showed there was no difference in 5-year overall survival in patients with any size nodule <5 mm compared to patients with no nodules. Additionally, our study showed a survival advantage for those who presented with 0 or 1 nodule (90%) compared to ≥2 nodules (53%). Our data suggest surgery may not be necessary for singular nodules <5 mm identified on presentation, and that these patients behave more like “localized” patients than metastatic patients.
Muscle Length of the Hamstrings Using Ultrasonography Versus Musculoskeletal Modelling
Authors: Kellis Eleftherios , Konstantinidou Athina , Ellinoudis Athanasios
Published: March 2021

Muscle morphology is an important contributor to hamstring muscle injury and malfunction. The aim of this study was to examine if hamstring muscle-tendon lengths differ between various measurement methods as well as if passive length changes differ between individual hamstrings. The lengths of biceps femoris long head (BFlh), semimembranosus (SM), and semitendinosus (ST) of 12 healthy males were determined using three methods: Firstly, by identifying the muscle attachments using ultrasound (US) and then measuring the distance on the skin using a flexible ultrasound tape (TAPE-US). Secondly, by scanning each muscle using extended-field-of view US (EFOV-US) and, thirdly, by estimating length using modelling equations (MODEL). Measurements were performed with the participant relaxed at six combinations of hip (0°, 90°) and knee (0°, 45°, and 90°) flexion angles. The MODEL method showed greater BFlh and SM lengths as well as changes in length than US methods. EFOV-US showed greater ST and SM lengths than TAPE-US (p < 0.05). SM length change across all joint positions was greater than BFlh and ST (p < 0.05). Hamstring length predicted using regression equations is greater compared with those measured using US-based methods. The EFOV-US method yielded greater ST and SM length than the TAPE-US method. SM showed the highest change in length at different hip and knee joint positions.
Geometry Calibration of a Modular Stereo Cone-Beam X-ray CT System
Authors: Nguyen Van , Sanctorum Joaquim G. , Van Wassenbergh Sam , Dirckx Joris J. J. , Sijbers Jan , De Beenhouwer Jan
Published: March 2021

Compared to single source systems, stereo X-ray CT systems allow acquiring projection data within a reduced amount of time, for an extended field-of-view, or for dual X-ray energies. To exploit the benefit of a dual X-ray system, its acquisition geometry needs to be calibrated. Unfortunately, in modular stereo X-ray CT setups, geometry misalignment occurs each time the setup is changed, which calls for an efficient calibration procedure. Although many studies have been dealing with geometry calibration of an X-ray CT system, little research targets the calibration of a dual cone-beam X-ray CT system. In this work, we present a phantom-based calibration procedure to accurately estimate the geometry of a stereo cone-beam X-ray CT system. With simulated as well as real experiments, it is shown that the calibration procedure can be used to accurately estimate the geometry of a modular stereo X-ray CT system thereby reducing the misalignment artifacts in the reconstruction volumes.
The Case of Lionfish (Pterois miles) in the Mediterranean Sea Demonstrates Limitations in EU Legislation to Address Marine Biological Invasions
Authors: Kleitou Periklis , Hall-Spencer Jason M. , Savva Ioannis , Kletou Demetris , Hadjistylli Margarita , Azzurro Ernesto , Katsanevakis Stelios , Antoniou Charalampos , Hadjioannou Louis , Chartosia Niki , Christou Maria , Christodoulides Yiannis , Giovos Ioannis , Jimenez Carlos , Smeraldo Sonia , Rees Siân E.
Published: March 2021

The European Regulation (EU) 1143/2014 on Invasive Alien Species entered into force in 2015, with the aim to fulfill regional and international biodiversity goals in a concerted manner. To date, the Regulation listed 66 Invasive Alien Species (IAS) that are subject to legal controls. Only one of these is marine. A recent lionfish (Pterois miles) invasion has been closely monitored in the Mediterranean and a detailed risk assessment was made about the profound impacts that this invasive fish is likely to have on the fisheries and biodiversity of the region. In 2016–21, lionfish rapidly became dominant predators along Eastern Mediterranean coasts, yet the process for their inclusion on the EU IAS list has been lengthy and is ongoing. There is an urgent need to learn from this experience. Here, we recommend improvements to the Regulation 1143/2014 and the risk assessment process to protect marine ecosystems and secure the jobs of people that rely on coastal resources.
A Novel Method for Obtaining the Loess Structural Index from Computed Tomography Images: A Case Study from the Lvliang Mountains of the Loess Plateau (China)
Authors: Tang Yaming , Bi Yinqiang , Guo Zizheng , Li Zhengguo , Feng Wei , Wang Jiayun , Li Yane , Ma Hongna
Published: March 2021

The structural index is an important quantitative parameter for revealing the structural properties of loess. However, there is no a widely accepted measurement method for structural index at present. This study aims at presenting a novel method for obtaining the loess structural index (LSI), based on the application of computed tomography (CT) scanning techniques and laboratory physico-mechanical tests. The mountainous area of Lvliang in northwest China was taken as the study area, and Late Pleistocene loess samples were taken from various sites in the region. Several physical parameters were first measured using laboratory tests, including dry density, pore ratio, and liquidity index. CT scanning was used to observe sample microstructures, and a mathematical relationship was established between CT image parameters and the physical property indices, through three dimensions (3D) reconstruction and slice porosity analysis. The results revealed that LSI can be expressed as a non-linear function related to CT image parameters, dry density, and the liquidity index of the loess. Compared with traditional calculation methods, this novel technique calculates the LSI by using an empirical formula, which is less labor-intensive. Such results indicate that the method warrants wide application in the future.
The Effect of Perceptions: Instructor–Student Dynamics in the Spanish Heritage Classroom
Authors: González Darriba Patricia , Kinsella Benjamin , Marull Crystal , Campbell Nathan
Published: March 2021

The rising population of heritage speakers (HS) in university courses in the US has increased the need for instructors who understand the linguistic, social, and cultural profiles of their students. Recent research has discussed the need for specialized courses and their differentiation from second-language (L2) classes, as well as the intersection between HS and language attitudes. However, prior studies have not examined HS students’ language attitudes toward the sociolinguistic background of the instructors and their effect on classroom interactions. Therefore, this study explores HS students’ overall language attitudes and perceptions of their instructors’ sociolinguistic background. In a survey, HS university students (N = 92) across the US assessed four instructor profiles along five dimensions. Results showed that students rated more favorably instructors born and raised in Latin America, followed by those from Spain. Furthermore, HS favored these two profiles over HS or L2 profiles as their course instructors. However, preferences were less marked in the online context. These findings demonstrate that to design supportive learning spaces with—rather than for—HS students, programs must first acknowledge how classroom dynamics are shaped by the perspectives brought into the learning space and by the context of the learning space itself.
Application of the Sequence Planner Control Framework to an Intelligent Automation System with a Focus on Error Handling
Authors: Dahl Martin , Bengtsson Kristofer , Falkman Petter
Published: March 2021

Future automation systems are likely to include devices with a varying degree of autonomy, as well as advanced algorithms for perception and control. Human operators will be expected to work side by side with both collaborative robots performing assembly tasks and roaming robots that handle material transport. To maintain the flexibility provided by human operators when introducing such robots, these autonomous robots need to be intelligently coordinated, i.e., they need to be supported by an intelligent automation system. One challenge in developing intelligent automation systems is handling the large amount of possible error situations that can arise due to the volatile and sometimes unpredictable nature of the environment. Sequence Planner is a control framework that supports the development of intelligent automation systems. This paper describes Sequence Planner and tests its ability to handle errors that arise during execution of an intelligent automation system. An automation system, developed using Sequence Planner, is subjected to a number of scenarios where errors occur. The error scenarios and experimental results are presented along with a discussion of the experience gained in trying to achieve robust intelligent automation.
Analytical Method for Geometric Nonlinear Problems Based on Offshore Derricks
Authors: Li Chunbao , Cao Hui , Han Mengxin , Qin Pengju , Liu Xiaohui
Published: March 2021

The marine derrick sometimes operates under extreme weather conditions, especially wind; therefore, the buckling analysis of the components in the derrick is one of the critical contents of engineering safety research. This paper aimed to study the local stability of marine derrick and propose an analytical method for geometrically nonlinear problems. The rod in the derrick is simplified as a compression rod with simply supported ends, which is subjected to transverse uniform load. Considering the second-order effect, the differential equations were used to establish the deflection, rotation angle, and bending moment equations of the derrick rod under the lateral uniform load. This method was defined as a geometrically nonlinear analytical method. Moreover, the deflection deformation and stability of the derrick members were analyzed, and the practical calculation formula was obtained. The Ansys analysis results were compared with the calculation results in this paper.
XOR-Based Progressively Secret Image Sharing
Authors: Lin Cheng-Shian , Chen Chien-Chang , Chen Yu-Cheng
Published: March 2021

Secret image sharing technology is a strategy for jointly protecting secret images. The (n, n) secret image sharing problem can be solved by conventional Boolean calculation easily. However, how to recover secret images with progressive steps is not addressed. In this study, we proposed an XOR-based (m, t, Ti) multi-secret image sharing scheme that shares m secret images among m participants and recovers m shared images progressively with t thresholds. The proposed secret images partition strategy (SIPS) partitions m secret images to generate intermediate images for different thresholds in the sharing procedure. Based on progressive recovery property, the proposed recovery method recovers parts of the secret images by gathering consecutive shared images. Moreover, gathering all shared images can perfectly recover all secret images. The experimental results show that the proposed XOR-based multi-secret image sharing method has high security and efficiency.
On the Increasing Convex Order of Relative Spacings of Order Statistics
Authors: Castaño-Martínez Antonia , Pigueiras Gema , Sordo Miguel A.
Published: March 2021

Relative spacings are relative differences between order statistics. In this context, we extend previous results concerning the increasing convex order of relative spacings of two distributions from the case of consecutive spacings to general spacings. The sufficient conditions are given in terms of the expected proportional shortfall order. As an application, we compare relative deprivation within some parametric families of income distributions.
On the Evolution of Compressible and Incompressible Viscous Fluids with a Sharp Interface
Authors: Kubo Takayuki , Shibata Yoshihiro
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we consider some two phase problems of compressible and incompressible viscous fluids’ flow without surface tension under the assumption that the initial domain is a uniform Wq2−1/q domain in RN (N≥2). We prove the local in the time unique existence theorem for our problem in the Lp in time and Lq in space framework with 2<p<∞ and N<q<∞ under our assumption. In our proof, we first transform an unknown time-dependent domain into the initial domain by using the Lagrangian transformation. Secondly, we solve the problem by the contraction mapping theorem with the maximal Lp-Lq regularity of the generalized Stokes operator for the compressible and incompressible viscous fluids’ flow with the free boundary condition. The key step of our proof is to prove the existence of an R-bounded solution operator to resolve the corresponding linearized problem. The Weis operator-valued Fourier multiplier theorem with R-boundedness implies the generation of a continuous analytic semigroup and the maximal Lp-Lq regularity theorem.
Hysteresis Behavior of the Donor–Acceptor-Type Ambipolar Semiconductor for Non-Volatile Memory Applications
Authors: Choi Young Jin , Kim Jihyun , Kim Min Je , Ryu Hwa Sook , Woo Han Young , Cho Jeong Ho , Kang Joohoon
Published: March 2021

Donor–acceptor-type organic semiconductor molecules are of great interest for potential organic field-effect transistor applications with ambipolar characteristics and non-volatile memory applications. Here, we synthesized an organic semiconductor, PDPPT-TT, and directly utilized it in both field-effect transistor and non-volatile memory applications. As-synthesized PDPPT-TT was simply spin-coated on a substrate for the device fabrications. The PDPPT-TT based field-effect transistor showed ambipolar electrical transfer characteristics. Furthermore, a gold nanoparticle-embedded dielectric layer was used as a charge trapping layer for the non-volatile memory device applications. The non-volatile memory device showed clear memory window formation as applied gate voltage increases, and electrical stability was evaluated by performing retention and cycling tests. In summary, we demonstrate that a donor–acceptor-type organic semiconductor molecule shows great potential for ambipolar field-effect transistors and non-volatile memory device applications as an important class of materials.
Emulating Artificial Synaptic Plasticity Characteristics from SiO2-Based Conductive Bridge Memories with Pt Nanoparticles
Authors: Bousoulas Panagiotis , Papakonstantinopoulos Charalampos , Kitsios Stavros , Moustakas Konstantinos , Sirakoulis Georgios Ch. , Tsoukalas Dimitris
Published: March 2021

The quick growth of information technology has necessitated the need for developing novel electronic devices capable of performing novel neuromorphic computations with low power consumption and a high degree of accuracy. In order to achieve this goal, it is of vital importance to devise artificial neural networks with inherent capabilities of emulating various synaptic properties that play a key role in the learning procedures. Along these lines, we report here the direct impact of a dense layer of Pt nanoparticles that plays the role of the bottom electrode, on the manifestation of the bipolar switching effect within SiO2-based conductive bridge memories. Valuable insights regarding the influence of the thermal conductivity value of the bottom electrode on the conducting filament growth mechanism are provided through the application of a numerical model. The implementation of an intermediate switching transition slope during the SET transition permits the emulation of various artificial synaptic functionalities, such as short-term plasticity, including paired-pulsed facilitation and paired-pulse depression, long-term plasticity and four different types of spike-dependent plasticity. Our approach provides valuable insights toward the development of multifunctional synaptic elements that operate with low power consumption and exhibit biological-like behavior.
Implications of Tributyrin on Gut Microbiota Shifts Related to Performances of Weaning Piglets
Authors: Miragoli Francesco , Patrone Vania , Prandini Aldo , Sigolo Samantha , Dell’Anno Matteo , Rossi Luciana , Senizza Alice , Morelli Lorenzo , Callegari Maria Luisa
Published: March 2021

Alternatives to antibiotic treatments are required owing to the ban on the use of these drugs as growth promoters in food animal production. Tributyrin appears to play a role in improving growth performance in pigs, albeit with varying degrees of effectiveness. So far, very little is known about its effects on gut microbiota composition. In this study, we investigated the gut microbiota changes of piglets receiving, at weaning, 0.2% tributyrin added to their basal diet. Microbiota composition was assessed through 16S-rRNA gene sequencing on stools collected from tributyrin and control groups. The functional profiles of microbial communities were predicted from amplicon abundance data. A comparison between dietary groups revealed that tributyrin strongly modulated gut microbiota composition in piglets, increasing the relative abundance of a number of bacterial genera such as Oscillospira, Oscillibacter, Mucispirillum and Butyrivibrio. These genera were positively correlated to animal average daily gain (ADG) and/or body weight (BW). Based on the function profile prediction, the gut microbiome of the tributyrin group possessed an enhanced potential for energy metabolism and a reduced potential for carbohydrate metabolism. In conclusion, our results indicated that tributyrin can promote changes to gut microbial communities, which could contribute to improving animal performance after weaning.
Persistence of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris in Field Soil in Central Europe
Authors: Gazdik Filip , Magnus Samuel , Roberts Steven J. , Baranski Rafal , Cechova Jana , Pokluda Robert , Eichmeier Ales , Grzebelus Dariusz , Baranek Miroslav
Published: March 2021

Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc) is a bacterium that causes black rot of crucifers. The greatest losses of brassica crop production usually result from seed-borne infection, but carry-over of inoculum in field soil may also be possible. The aim of this study was to monitor persistence of Xcc in field soil in central Europe using a conventional PCR assay with hrpF primers and a two-step nested real-time PCR assay using Zur primers. The work has demonstrated that nested real-time PCR can be used to improve the analytical sensitivity for detection of Xcc in soil compared to conventional PCR, and that Xcc may persist in soil for up to two years following an infected brassica crop in central European climatic conditions.
Effective Small Molecule Antibacterials from a Novel Anti-Protein Secretion Screen
Authors: Hamed Mohamed Belal , Burchacka Ewa , Angus Liselotte , Marchand Arnaud , De Geyter Jozefien , Loos Maria S. , Anné Jozef , Klaassen Hugo , Chaltin Patrick , Karamanou Spyridoula , Economou Anastassios
Published: March 2021

The increasing problem of bacterial resistance to antibiotics underscores the urgent need for new antibacterials. Protein export pathways are attractive potential targets. The Sec pathway is essential for bacterial viability and includes components that are absent from eukaryotes. Here, we used a new high-throughput in vivo screen based on the secretion and activity of alkaline phosphatase (PhoA), a Sec-dependent secreted enzyme that becomes active in the periplasm. The assay was optimized for a luminescence-based substrate and was used to screen a ~240K small molecule compound library. After hit confirmation and analoging, 14 HTS secretion inhibitors (HSI), belonging to eight structural classes, were identified with IC50 < 60 µM. The inhibitors were evaluated as antibacterials against 19 Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial species (including those from the WHO’s top pathogens list). Seven of them—HSI#6, 9; HSI#1, 5, 10; and HSI#12, 14—representing three structural families, were bacteriocidal. HSI#6 was the most potent hit against 13 species of both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria with IC50 of 0.4 to 8.7 μM. HSI#1, 5, 9 and 10 inhibited the viability of Gram-positive bacteria with IC50 ~6.9–77.8 μM. HSI#9, 12, and 14 inhibited the viability of E. coli strains with IC50 < 65 μM. Moreover, HSI#1, 5 and 10 inhibited the viability of an E. coli strain missing TolC to improve permeability with IC50 4 to 14 μM, indicating their inability to penetrate the outer membrane. The antimicrobial activity was not related to the inhibition of the SecA component of the translocase in vitro, and hence, HSI molecules may target new unknown components that directly or indirectly affect protein secretion. The results provided proof of the principle that the new broad HTS approach can yield attractive nanomolar inhibitors that have potential as new starting compounds for optimization to derive potential antibiotics.
Metabolome Analysis of Constituents in Membrane Vesicles for Clostridium thermocellum Growth Stimulation
Authors: Ichikawa Shunsuke , Tsuge Yoichiro , Karita Shuichi
Published: March 2021

The cultivation of the cellulolytic bacterium, Clostridium thermocellum, can have cost-effective cellulosic biomass utilizations, such as consolidated bioprocessing, simultaneous biological enzyme production and saccharification. However, these processes require a longer cultivation term of approximately 1 week. We demonstrate that constituents of the C. thermocellum membrane vesicle fraction significantly promoted the growth rate of C. thermocellum. Similarly, cell-free Bacillus subtilis broth was able to increase C. thermocellum growth rate, while several B. subtilis single-gene deletion mutants, e.g., yxeJ, yxeH, ahpC, yxdK, iolF, decreased the growth stimulation ability. Metabolome analysis revealed signal compounds for cell–cell communication in the C. thermocellum membrane vesicle fraction (ethyl 2-decenoate, ethyl 4-decenoate, and 2-dodecenoic acid) and B. subtilis broth (nicotinamide, indole-3-carboxaldehyde, urocanic acid, nopaline, and 6-paradol). These findings suggest that the constituents in membrane vesicles from C. thermocellum and B. subtilis could promote C. thermocellum growth, leading to improved efficiency of cellulosic biomass utilization.
Outcome of Different Sequencing and Assembly Approaches on the Detection of Plasmids and Localization of Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Commensal Escherichia coli
Authors: Juraschek Katharina , Borowiak Maria , Tausch Simon H. , Malorny Burkhard , Käsbohrer Annemarie , Otani Saria , Schwarz Stefan , Meemken Diana , Deneke Carlus , Hammerl Jens Andre
Published: March 2021

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major threat to public health worldwide. Currently, AMR typing changes from phenotypic testing to whole-genome sequence (WGS)-based detection of resistance determinants for a better understanding of the isolate diversity and elements involved in gene transmission (e.g., plasmids, bacteriophages, transposons). However, the use of WGS data in monitoring purposes requires suitable techniques, standardized parameters and approved guidelines for reliable AMR gene detection and prediction of their association with mobile genetic elements (plasmids). In this study, different sequencing and assembly strategies were tested for their suitability in AMR monitoring in Escherichia coli in the routines of the German National Reference Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistances. To assess the outcomes of the different approaches, results from in silico predictions were compared with conventional phenotypic- and genotypic-typing data. With the focus on (fluoro)quinolone-resistant E.coli, five qnrS-positive isolates with multiple extrachromosomal elements were subjected to WGS with NextSeq (Illumina), PacBio (Pacific BioSciences) and ONT (Oxford Nanopore) for in depth characterization of the qnrS1-carrying plasmids. Raw reads from short- and long-read sequencing were assembled individually by Unicycler or Flye or a combination of both (hybrid assembly). The generated contigs were subjected to bioinformatics analysis. Based on the generated data, assembly of long-read sequences are error prone and can yield in a loss of small plasmid genomes. In contrast, short-read sequencing was shown to be insufficient for the prediction of a linkage of AMR genes (e.g., qnrS1) to specific plasmid sequences. Furthermore, short-read sequencing failed to detect certain duplications and was unsuitable for genome finishing. Overall, the hybrid assembly led to the most comprehensive typing results, especially in predicting associations of AMR genes and mobile genetic elements. Thus, the use of different sequencing technologies and hybrid assemblies currently represents the best approach for reliable AMR typing and risk assessment.