bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring and interpreting the spectral structure of the North Indian flute (Bansuri)
Authors: Smith Trevor D. , Kim Jane , Perez Daniela , Sen Gupta Ananya
Published: January 2025

Spectrograms are powerful tools in many fields today, whether that be by a musician trying to improve their own ability with an instrument or an engineer developing a way to sense vehicles for an autonomous car. The spectrogram allows for deeper analysis than just what can be heard, giving information on its harmonic series, any frequencies below 20 Hz or above 20 kHz (range of hearing) and beyond. In this talk, we will explore the efficacy of spectral analysis to understand the acoustical structure the Indian flute (Bansuri) and provide interpretation of the melodic sounds generated by this ancient Indian instrument using spectral analysis. Specifically, we examine what harmonic features characterize the fluid melodic movements of the Bansuri and whether non-harmonic structures in the acoustic spectrogram carry pertinent musical information. We also qualitatively examine the accuracy of extracting the melodic features against non-melodic features that sound like dissonant hiss. We will discuss the potential of understanding the air column physics of this flute and relating it spectrally to similar physics of propagation in small cylindrical underwater sonar targets such as unexploded ordinances (UXO). Results based on original flute data (and potentially UXO and similar small-target sonar data) will be presented. [This work has been partially supported by the DoD Navy grant N00174-20-1-0016 and University of Iowa internal funds.]
Sympathetic resonance of the pipe organ and its effects on concert Hall acoustics
Authors: Snow Ashley , Cottingham James P.
Published: January 2025

The pipe organ stands present at most every famous concert hall and church sanctuary, yet often it serves only as decoration, rarely played. What effects, then, does the world’s largest class of musical instrument have on the acoustics of concert halls that house them? With prominent metal resonators typically positioned as the immediate back wall of the stage, it is difficult to believe that the pipe organ has little sonic effect, even when it isn’t being played. One hypothesis is that the pipe organ makes for some manner of auto-tune, as its pipes sympathetically resonate to the same frequencies they’re tuned to, thus increasing the amplitude of frequencies that align with well-tuned 12-tone notes, and enhancing the overall musical sound of ensembles that play in concert halls with organs. It was verified experimentally that sympathetic resonance does occur in organ pipes due to musical performance, speeches, and noise, at frequencies that align with musical notes, and that overall amplitude increases when the signal matches the resonance of one or several pipes. Ongoing research is being conducted on the significance of these effects on the overall quality of musical performance to listeners in the audience.
Audio performance comparison and analysis of bio-composite bassoon reed design
Authors: Wong Lizette M. , Wong Zoelle F.
Published: January 2025

Bassoon reeds, commonly made with Arundo donax, often contain inconsistent audio and structural performance due to their natural degradation from exposure to saliva and humidity. They are a necessary tool to produce sound and are reported to be an expensive recurring cost. The combined cost of musical lessons and instrument upkeep creates a financial barrier for musicians. Made from polypropylene, synthetic reeds are commercially available; however, they have shown inconsistencies in the physical profile and sound. In this experiment, the audio performance of a bio-composite reed design, Fermata, is proposed and analyzed in an effort to introduce alternative reed options. Spectrograms and FFT plots were constructed after recording pitches at F2, F3, and F4 for four beats, tapering at the end and repeated five times per pitch case. Comparisons and audio analyses are made between Arundo donax, synthetic, and the Fermata reed. The current work indicates that polymer selection directly impacts overtone propagation and timbre brightness for a select range of pitch.
International aircraft noise regulation
Authors: Loubeau Alexandra , Sparrow Victor W.
Published: January 2025

This panel session addresses the current state and challenges of aircraft noise regulations across the world. Invited experts from industry, government, and research institutions will each give a 10-min live talk, and a panel discussion with the opportunity for questions from the audience participants will follow. Presentations may include discussion of the history of aircraft noise regulations, perspectives on current regulations, recent public survey results, and their implications for future regulations. Discussion of additional future developments could include regulation of new entrant aircraft, such as urban air mobility, supersonic, and electric propulsion vehicles.
Improved performance of pulse tube refrigerators using thermoacoustics
Authors: Snodgrass Ryan , Kotsubo Vincent , Backhaus Scott , Ullom Joel
Published: January 2025

A wide variety of science is performed at temperatures near and below 4 K. Such low temperatures are commonly achieved using the pulse tube refrigerator, a type of cryocooler that cyclically compresses and expands helium gas to pump heat from the cold end. Here, we discuss three topics demonstrating that thermoacoustic analysis enables substantial gains in the understanding and performance of these refrigerators. We begin by showing that dynamic acoustic optimization of pulse tube refrigerators can lead to a tremendous increase in their cooldown speed (up to 3.5 times the status quo speed). This is a novel technique that is currently being commercialized. Second, we discuss the development of mass flow meters for the study of pulse tube refrigerator compressor efficiency. The flow meters are used to validate a thermoacoustic expression that more simply finds the flow rate using only pressure transducers. Third, we show that a large amount of cooling power may be extracted from the regenerators of these refrigerators without impacting the cooling power available at the cold end. Thermoacoustic analysis reveals that the real-fluid properties of helium are responsible for this capability.
Dynamic phased arrays and ultrasound modulators
Authors: Fischer Peer
Published: January 2025

The acoustic hologram has made it possible to shape ultrasound waves and project complex pressure patterns in 2D and in 3D, as we have also recently shown. The hologram contains tens of thousands of elements which can be used to form sophisticated pressure patterns by setting the phase and/or amplitude across the wavefront of a sound wave. It thereby offers more degrees of freedom than conventional phased array transducers (PATs). However, the hologram is generally static, whereas PATs are dynamic. PATs do not only have fewer elements, but they are also more difficult to fabricate and require complex electronics. In this talk, I will describe our efforts to combine the best of both worlds. For this, we are exploring the use of light waves as a means to control ultrasound waves. I will describe direct and indirect approaches that can be used to control and modulate holographic ultrasound fields.
Three-dimensional ultrasound matrix imaging
Authors: Bureau Flavien , Denis Louise , Coudert Antoine , Robin Justine , Fink Mathias , Couture Olivier , Aubry Alexandre
Published: January 2025

Matrix imaging paves the way towards a next revolution in wave physics. Based on the response matrix recorded between a set of sensors, it enables an optimized compensation of aberration phenomena and multiple scattering events that usually drastically hinder the focusing process in heterogeneous media. Although it gave rise to spectacular results in optical microscopy or seismic imaging, the success of matrix imaging has been so far relatively limited with ultrasonic waves because wave control is generally only performed with a linear array of transducers [1]. In this talk, we will extend ultrasound matrix imaging to a 3D geometry [2]. Switching from a 1D to a 2D probe enables a sharper estimation of the transmission matrix that links each transducer and each medium voxel. Here, we first present an experimental proof of concept on a tissue-mimicking phantom through ex vivo tissues and then show the potential of our reflection matrix approach for transcranial imaging, with applications to ultrasound localization microscopy of a sheep brain [3]. [1] W. Lambert et al., Proc. Natl. Ac. Sci. U. S. A. 117, 14645–14656 (2020) [2] F. Bureau et al., Nat. Commun. 14, 6793 (2023) [3] F. Bureau, L. Denis et al., (to be submitted).
Diotic narrowband noises can be perceived as intracranially off center in listeners with symmetrical audiometric thresholds
Authors: AlQasem Obada J. , Goupell Matthew J.
Published: January 2025

The ability to localize sound sources in the horizontal plane depends on the interaural time (ITD) and level (ILD) difference. It is assumed that individuals with normal and symmetrical hearing thresholds perceive stimuli with zero ILD and ITD as fused centered auditory images, which is not always true. This study aimed to explore ILD lateralization biases in individuals with normal hearing and explain whether they can be explained byan interaural asymmetry in monaural loudness. An ILD lateralization task was performed where the ILDs ranged between ±10 dB. The stimulus was a 1-equivalent-rectangular-bandwidth narrowband noise centered at 250–8000 Hz or a wideband noise. Preliminary results showed that the participants exhibited ILD lateralization biases more often at higher frequencies and minimal bias in the wideband condition. These biases were not caused by headphones, as the transducers were reversed between testing blocks. Biases were also consistent across up to three separate testing days. A loudness balancing task showed that participants perceived stimuli as equally loud, ruling out interaural asymmetry in monaural loudness. Audiometry also confirmed the absence of hearing threshold asymmetries. Therefore, lateralization biases in individuals with normal hearing are not explained by interaural disparities in loudness perception or hearing threshold asymmetry.
Language environment analysis precision in real-world and controlled environments
Authors: Pennock Rachael , Rallapalli Varsha H. , Souza Pamela E.
Published: January 2025

Background: Adults with hearing loss experience individual auditory ecologies, encountering unique environments and listening demands. A clinician’s subjective understanding of each patient’s auditory ecology informs clinical decision-making. As subjective interpretation is subject to error, objective measurements would improve accurate auditory ecology characterization. The Language Environment Analysis (LENA) system is apromising tool to evaluate older listeners’ environments to aid clinical decision-making. However, most LENA research has focused on adult-child conversations in quiet. This project aims to determine LENA’s accuracy in capturing real-world acoustic environments. Methods: Measurements were gathered of an adult female in real-world and controlled (sound-treated booth) speech-in-noise environments. The LENA and a Brüel & Kjaer sound level meter were placed opposite the talker. Overall levels and signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) were estimated by analyzing intensities of segment categories over varying time periods. Results: Similar noise levels and SNRs were found for analysis windows from 5 to 15 min. In the real-world environments, noise levels varied between 61 to 86 dBA, and SNR varied between −0.9 to +3.0 dB. However, values were misestimated by approximately 5 dB compared to sound level meter levels. Implications: Although they do not reach laboratory precision, LENA-informed measures could provide insight into individuals’ auditory ecologies.
Facial expression analysis and auditory perception
Authors: Braga Alessandro , Bigras Charlotte , Shamei Arian , Hébert Sylvie , Bouserhal Rachel
Published: January 2025

The psychoacoustic assessment of loudness disorders like Hyperacusis relies on subjective reports, which are biased and impractical for non-verbal patients. Similar issues in pain evaluation have been addressed using facial expression analysis to decode the intensity and affective value of perceived pain. Thus, we are developing a system for the objective evaluation of perceived sounds from a listener’s facial expression. We determine whether sensory (intensity) and affective (valence) dimensions of sound perception can be distinguished through facial expressions by employing action unit analysis and other facial feature extraction methods on our in-house dataset. This video dataset includes facial expressions in response to sounds with varying intensities and emotional valences. We train convolutional networks to decode these dimensions from both extracted features, such as AUs and raw video data. By employing feature and decision fusion methods, we are developing an automated system for the objective assessment of perceived sound. This system will pioneer the first objective method for assessing loudness disorders, enhancing patient care and potentially distinguishing between hyperacusis sub-types to facilitate personalized treatment.
Influence of the osseous spiral lamina on the inner ear’s response to air- and bone-conducted stimulation
Authors: Kersten Simon , Taschke Henning , Vorlaender Michael
Published: January 2025

Recent studies have provided valuable insight into the anatomy and motion of the cochlear partition, particularly emphasizing the flexible nature of the osseous spiral lamina (OSL). However, whether in studies involving air- or bone-conducted stimulation, the OSL is often treated as a rigid structure, overlooking its potential impact on the cochlear macro mechanisms. In this study, we investigate the effect of the OSL’s flexibility by incorporating it as either a rigid or a flexible structure in a finite element model of the human inner ear. By applying both air- and bone-conducted stimulation, we found that the OSL’s flexibility significantly influences cochlear impedances, cochlear partition stiffness, and the differential fluid flow at the oval and the round windows. These results emphasize the importance of considering the flexibility of the OSL for an improved understanding of cochlear function and interpretation of experimental data on inner ear responses. [This work was funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) – Project-ID 352015383 – SFB 1330 A4.]
Effects of signal bandwidth and signal-to-noise ratio on noised-masked gap detection
Authors: Thomas Zenzele , Eddins David A. , Ozmeral Erol J.
Published: January 2025

Speech perception relies on our ability to process fast modulations in a signal. Such temporal processing often is probed using a temporal gap detection task. Because speech-in-noise listening is a common challenge for listeners with hearing loss, we investigated the role of the periphery to process temporal gaps in the presence of noise. Three experiments were conducted using a classic gap detection threshold method, including a 3-alternative-forced-choice procedure and a 3-down-1-up adaptive tracking method to estimate thresholds. Experiments 1 and 2 tracked gap detection (in ms) for various signal bandwidths, signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs), and masker modulation depths. Experiment 3 fixed the gap duration, then tracked gap modulation depth (in dB) at various SNRs. Experiments 1 to 3 showed similar effects of SNR, with poorer SNRs increasing gap thresholds. Masker bandwidth also reduced performance in Experiment 2. Current analyses with a common modulation filter bank frontend (Dau et al., 1997) performed on par as the normal hearing listeners suggesting that auditory gap detection and, by extension, temporal envelope processing, can be explained by peripheral processes. [Work supported by NIH R01 DC020514 and R01DC015051.]
Ken Steven's focus on speech production and our development of the speech inversion system
Authors: Espy-Wilson Carol , Siriwardena Yashish M. , Boyce Suzanne , Tiede Mark , Oren Liran
Published: January 2025

Throughout his highly distinguished career, Ken Stevens studied how the relationship between the constrictions used in speech production result in the acoustic properties of the speech signal. Ken’s pioneering rate in articulation stemming from the X-ray study he participated in and studies by his students in the timing and movement of articulatory gestures played a pivotal role in our work to develop a Speech Inversion (SI) system. The SI system, using deep learning, initially used ground-truth information obtained from the Wisconsin X-ray Microbeam database to estimate the articulatory trajectories for the lips, tongue tip, and tongue dorsum. Adding glottal information based on an aperiodicity/periodicity/pitch detector resulted in a significant improvement in the correlation between estimated and ground truth data. More recently, we added ground truth articulatory data about the velopharyngeal port constriction, using both nasometry and the novel technique of high-speed nasopharyngoscopy. In this talk, I will discuss the SI system and its ability to help us understand how speech production changes as a result of mental state, speech disorder, speaking rate, and accent.
Archival, autonomously-deployed acoustic monitoring systems at the University of New Hampshire
Authors: Blanford Thomas E. , Lyons Anthony P. , Miksis-Olds Jennifer , Hare Jenna , Venegas Gabriel R.
Published: January 2025

The ocean is continuously changing, and multiple dynamic processes influence the underwater environment over time scales that may vary from minutes to years. As the generation, propagation, and scattering of sound in the ocean is closely tied to the environment, underwater acoustic signals also change over multiple time scales. The Center for Acoustics Research and Education at the University of New Hampshire is developing and deploying autonomous active and passive acoustic sensing platforms to conduct long-term monitoring of the environment in the Gulf of Maine. The platforms are deployed from surface vessels and rest on the seafloor, making measurements at regular intervals. The platforms vary in configuration but contain acoustic sensors (passive hydrophones and active, split-aperture echosounders at multiple frequencies, current profilers) and non-acoustic sensors (cameras, CTDs). This presentation will provide an overview of these platforms, their deployment, operation, and applications of the data to understand temporal changes in the underwater environment.
Towards better understanding and communication of uncertainty in architectural acoustics and noise control
Authors: Wang Lily M.
Published: January 2025

The fields of architectural acoustics and noise control involve conducting measurements, running analyses, modeling, and making predictions about the behavior of sound in the built environment. Such tasks inherently involve uncertain aspects that affect the reliability of results. This presentation presents a general philosophy around uncertainty with suggestions on how to acknowledge and approach uncertainty, in an effort to move those involved in architectural acoustics and noise control toward better understanding and communication of uncertainty. Terminology, concepts, and pertinent standards that address uncertainty are also reviewed.
The results and uses of a New Interlaboratory Study for ASTM E90 for frequently constructed wall types
Authors: Way Evelyn , Raley Michael
Published: January 2025

How does one compare test reports from two different labs? How do we improve our standard test methods? How does a lab prove they get the same results over time? Every ASTM standard method is required to include a precision and bias statement. The precision statement is based on interlaboratory studies where multiple labs do repeated tests on the same sample. That data was only relevant when it is similar to the type of sample usually tested. The last interlaboratory study to establish the precision for ASTM E90 was completed over 20 years ago on low-STC steel panels. This presentation covers the initial results of a new study that included over 80% of North American accredited labs using higher-performing, commonly used, steel stud wall assemblies. The authors will present the uncertainty determined by the study along with sources of variation between the labs including opening size, microphone type, and room volumes. The presentation will also discuss how consultants can use this information to better evaluate laboratory test data, and the industry as a whole can use it to improve the reliability of acoustic testing.
Hawaiian monk seal terrestrial communication range estimates
Authors: Ruscher Brandi , Parnell Kirby , Sills Jillian M. , Reichmuth Colleen
Published: January 2025

The acoustic biology of Hawaiian monk seals (Neomonachus schauinslandi) is compelling due to their evolutionary and biogeographical separation from related species, prolonged breeding season, and endangered status. Recent auditory measurements suggest that terrestrial communication is constrained by poor hearing, but limited available information about vocal behavior precludes communication range estimates. In this study, we recorded spontaneous vocalizations from free-ranging monk seals at Kalaupapa National Historical Park (Molokaʻi, HI) to describe spectral characteristics and provide the first source levels of the in-air, low-frequency calls emitted by this species. Sound pressure levels measured over the 90% call duration recorded 4–10 m from resting seals were used to approximate source levels at 1 m. Amplitude and spectral characteristics of recorded vocalizations were combined with monk seal hearing data and representative ambient noise levels to estimate the distances over which seals can effectively communicate with conspecifics in air. Preliminary estimates suggest that high hearing thresholds and low to moderate vocal amplitudes result in restricted communication ranges < 500 m. Understanding how terrestrial communication is influenced by noise in the environment will support decision-making about anthropogenic noise exposures that may be harmful to Hawaiian monk seals. [Research facilitated by NOAA’s Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Program.]
Bending beams: Effects of infill pattern and density on stiffness of 3D printed beams
Authors: Kurek Joseph , Geib Nathan P. , Naify Christina
Published: January 2025

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is an additive manufacturing process that builds parts layer by layer, selectively depositing melted material in a predetermined path. Two of the principal 3D-print settings that can be modified with FDM are infill density and infill pattern. This project examined the impact of both of these settings on the stiffness of beams printed using FDM. To obtain stiffness values, an accelerometer connected to an oscilloscope was first attached to beams before flicking them in order to determine their resonant frequencies. These data points, along with length, thickness, and density measurements, were then used to calculate each beam's stiffness using Euler–Bernoulli beam theory. An analysis of the results showed that both infill density and infill pattern had a significant impact on the stiffness of beams, suggesting that these print settings are important factors to keep in mind when designing parts to be 3D-printed using FDM.
Acoustic impedance measurements of wind instruments
Authors: Scavone Gary , Darabundit Champ C. , Jackson Miranda
Published: January 2025

Measurements of the acoustic input impedance of wind instruments and their subparts can be useful for analyzing playing aspects, such as intonation, ease of response, and for comparison with numerical models. This talk will start with a discussion of commercial and custom measurement equipment options overviewing their particular features, calibration methods, advantages, disadvantages, and their associated costs. The remainder of the talk will focus on a custom-built, multi-microphone system developed in the Computational Acoustic Modeling Laboratory at McGill University, with a demonstration of its use in measuring one or two wind instruments. The authors are happy to share all hardware and software details of this system with anyone interested.
Low-cost electronic speckle pattern interferometry: Obtaining reliable signals
Authors: Hoffman Kurt R. , Peyton Caroline P. , Morrison Andrew C.
Published: January 2025

Designs for low cost electronic speckle pattern interferometry (ESPI) systems allow broad use of this technique to study the vibration or deformation of surfaces. For example, the technique allows direct imaging of the normal mode shapes of musical instruments, which can be used to assess design changes or optimize instrument fabrication. While the typical surface measurement system is quite simple in design, obtaining reliable signals is often challenging. Random phase changes due to object motion or reference signal light path can lead to decorrelations resulting in an unstable final image that washes out with averaging. Depolarization of the scattered light also diminishes the interference pattern intensity. We will be discussing the particulars of surface preparation, optical alignment, and phase control that help lead to successful ESPI image contrast and stability. We will also discuss the differences between using a stationary reference image for ESPI subtraction and a frame-by-frame difference method to obtain higher contrast interference patterns.
Soundscape in application
Authors: Brooks Bennett M. , Schulte-Fortkamp Brigitte , Woolworth David s.
Published: January 2025

Defined as the acoustic environment understood by people in context, soundscape is a complex interplay of natural and human-made elements that contribute to the acoustical and social identity of a place. Participation in the planning and modification of an acoustic environment requires an active and creative approach and calls for a targeted engagement with the proposed designs or reorganizations. The introduction of standardized procedures and techniques is necessary to overcome the lack of defined systematic approaches to identifying interventions. Utilizing the soundscape standard will make the decision process transparent and comprehensible and thus more acceptable for authorities, policy makers, and other stakeholders. Guidance on how to implement innovative soundscape interventions through the upcoming Part 4 of the ISO Standard series 12913 will additionally increase the interest in interventions and how to achieve the intended purposes. Moreover, the application of soundscape methods have to meet the three primary public concerns: health, safety, and public welfare. In every aspect, the soundscape method is a powerful tool for understanding and actualizing our acoustical environment. Effectively balancing acoustic measurements, architectural and urban planning, and input based on the expertise of local experts will lead to a new understanding for the application of soundscapes.
Need for an inclusive approach in soundscape research
Authors: Talebzadeh Arezoo
Published: January 2025

Soundscape studies have received excessive interest in recent years, with distinct attention to standardizing research methodology and design outcomes. Soundscape is a complex adaptive system in which sound sources interact and evolve in different contexts, and multiple agents continuously influence and adapt to each other and the environment. Since soundscape is defined as a sonic environment perceived by people in context, soundscape studies must include people with diverse needs. WHO estimates the number of people with disabilities worldwide to be 1.3 billion. As urban environments become more complex, the demand for inclusive soundscape studies and design has never been more critical. Any complex system, such as soundscape, involves leveraging such systems' dynamic, interconnected, and adaptive nature to create environments where all individuals can thrive. The ultimate goal is to recognize, respect, and design human-centred auditory environments for uniqueness and variability that promote health and well-being for all. This goal can be achieved by using an open, transparent, and co-creative process with people who have diverse needs and perspectives. By focusing on diversity, interconnectedness, adaptation, emergence, and non-linearity, designers can create soundscapes that cater to the needs of all community members, enhancing their experience and well-being and ensuring that the soundscape is inclusive, resilient, and responsive to ongoing changes and feedback.
Remote characterization of auditory and cognitive processing
Authors: Lelo de Larrea-Mancera Esteban Sebastian , Seitz Aaron , Gallun Frederick J. , Stecker G. Christopher , Bologna William J. , Hoover Eric C. , Menon Katherine N. , Carrillo Audrey , Koerner Tess
Published: January 2025

Previous research has demonstrated that remote testing of suprathreshold auditory function using distributed technologies can produce results that closely match those obtained in laboratory settings with a specialized, calibrated equipment. This work has facilitated internet-based recruitment of participants and the validation of various behavioral measures that provide valuable insights into auditory function. These measures include aspects of auditory processing, self-reported hearing difficulties, and cognition. In this study, we used the portable psychophysics assessment tool (PART) along with online participant recruitment to test a wide variety of audition-relevant measures in those with (n = 92) and without (n = 100) self-reported hearing loss. We assessed each measure’s ability to discriminate between these two groups, as well as their reliability and multi-variate relationships. We found that several measures of auditory processing effectively differentiated between the groups. All previously tested measures showed similar test–retest reliabilities with this online approach. Additionally, multi-variate relationships, including cognition and self-reported hearing, were strikingly consistent across groups. In sum, this work further validates remote testing as a reliable general methodology.
Acoustic changes in consonants produced with a facemask
Authors: Jiang Feiyun , Chen Yang , Ng Manwa L.
Published: January 2025

The widespread use of surgical facemasks in the post COVID-19 era has raised concerns about their impact on speech communication. As many previous studies focused only on vowel production, the present study aims to explore how surgical mask affects production of consonants. Four stops (/pʰ, p, tʰ, t/) and three fricatives (/s, ɕ, f/) produced by 61 adults (31 males and 30 females) who were native speakers of Mandarin Chinese were obtained. Spectral moment and other acoustic measures including Centre of Gravity (CoG), Standard Deviation (SD), skewness, and kurtosis, and spectral peak, duration, and voice onset time (VOT) were analyzed by using Praat software. Preliminary findings indicated higher CoG values, lower SD, skewness, and kurtosis, and VOT when wearing a facemask. A repeated-measures ANOVA revealed significant effects of facemasks on acoustic features, suggesting that facemasks tended to alter the acoustic properties associated with Mandarin consonants, potentially reducing speech intelligibility.
Influence of snow cover on albedo reduction by snow algae
Authors: Almela Pablo , Elser James J. , Giersch J. Joseph , Hotaling Scott , Hamilton Trinity L.
Published: January 2025

Snow algae darken the surface of snow, reducing albedo and accelerating melt. However, the impact of subsurface snow algae (e.g., when cells are covered by recent snowfall) on albedo is unknown. Here, we examined the impact of subsurface snow algae on surface energy absorption by adding up to 2 cm of clean snow to surface algal blooms and measuring reflectivity. Surprisingly, snow algae still absorb significant energy across an array of wavelengths when snow-covered. Furthermore, the scale of this effect correlates with algal cell densities and chlorophyll-a concentrations. Collectively, our results suggest that darkening by subsurface snow algae lowers albedo and thus potentially accelerates snowmelt even when the algae is snow-covered. Impacts of subsurface algae on melt await assessment. This implies that snow algae play a larger role in cryosphere melt than investigations of surface-only reflectance would suggest.

IMPORTANCE

This study addresses a gap in research by examining the impact of subsurface snow algae on snow albedo, which affects snowmelt rates. Previous studies have focused on visible surface blooms, leaving the effects of hidden algae unquantified. Our findings reveal that snow algae beneath the surface can still absorb energy across various wavelengths, accelerating melt even when not visible to the naked eye. This suggests that spectral remote sensing can detect these hidden algae, although their biomass might be underestimated. Understanding how subsurface snow algae influence albedo and snowmelt is crucial for accurate predictions of meltwater runoff, which impacts alpine ecosystems, glacier health, and water resources. Accurate projections are essential for managing freshwater supplies for agriculture, drinking water, and other vital uses. Thus, further investigation into subsurface snow algae is necessary to improve our understanding of their role in snow albedo reduction and water resource management.
Supplemental Material: Origin of big garnet amphibolites at Gore Mountain and other localities, Adirondack Mountains, New York State, USA: Whole-rock geochemical constraints
Authors: Hollocher Kurt , al. et
Published: January 2025

Excel file: Tables S1-S3; PDF file: Tables S4-S5, Figures S1–S5: annotated outcrop photographs, and Figures S6–S14: explanation of thermodynamic calculations and thermodynamic results.
An Extremal Property of Self-Normalized Sums for Symmetric
Summands
Authors: Borisov I. S.
Published: January 2025

Sharp moment inequalities are obtained for a class of analytic functions of self-normalized
sums of independent symmetrically distributed random variables.
Excipient lung disease with transient severe pulmonary hypertension in a healthcare professional injecting crushed oxycodone tablets
Authors: Donnan Matthew T , McLean Catriona , Siemienowicz Miranda , Keating Dominic T
Published: January 2025

Excipient lung disease (ELD) is a rare cause of pulmonary hypertension that occurs due to the intravenous injection of crushed tablets. We present the case of a healthcare professional in her late 30s who presented with a fever in the setting of aStenotrophomonas maltophiliabacteraemia. During her hospital admission, she established a pattern of transient hypoxia and hypotension, with resolution without targeted management or clear cause identified. She developed progressive pulmonary centrilobular micronodularity on computed tomography and severe pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension. Lung biopsy revealed pulmonary arteriolar deposition of microcrystalline cellulose with an associated giant cell reaction leading to the diagnosis of ELD secondary to injection of crushed oxycodone tablets. In the setting of abstinence from intravenous drug use, the patient made a full recovery. ELD is rare and requires a high index of suspicion to diagnose. Treatment is largely supportive and should include removal of excipient exposure and addiction medicine services.
Monophasic synovial sarcoma arising from the rectum presenting as intractable anal pain
Authors: Manlubatan Sofia Isabel Tamesa , Reyes Jeryl Anne Silvia , Lopez Marc Paul Jose , Iraola-Davoco Kristine Joy
Published: January 2025

Synovial sarcoma is a rare malignant mesenchymal tumour typically found in the extremities, but it can also develop in the gastrointestinal tract, with the upper rectum being the most common site. We describe a case of a man in his 60s diagnosed with monophasic synovial sarcoma in the lower rectum, presenting with severe, intractable anal pain.
DelayedScedosporium apiospermumosteomyelitis following an open ankle fracture in an immunocompetent patient
Authors: Papaleontiou Andreas , Poupard Andréa , Nolan Ciaran Declan , Mortiboy Deborah
Published: January 2025

Scedosporium apiospermumis a ubiquitous environmental fungus, and several osteomyelitis cases have been reported in recent years. We present the case of a woman in her 70s who sustained a comminuted open ankle fracture, with garden soil contamination of the wound, which was treated according to orthoplastic principles. The patient developed osteomyelitis 6 months postsurgery. Intraoperative samples from the debridement and removal of metalwork showed the growth ofS. apiospermum, and the patient was treated with antifungal therapy and surgical debridements. The successful recovery of the patient highlights the possibility of treating fungal osteomyelitis when promptly diagnosed, raising the need for clinical suspicion. The interpretation of the significance of an environmental isolate was aided by a clear recording of not only the mechanism of injury but also the environment where it occurred. Hence, clear documentation and description of open fractures are paramount to patients’ care.
Rare cause of angina: mechanical compression from hydatid cyst
Authors: Kumar Devesh , Garg Prerna , Aggarwal Kartik , Yadav Rakesh
Published: January 2025

A young man presented with complaints of angina on exertion and dyspnoea on exertion for the last 3 months. On evaluation, he was found to have a cystic mass in the left ventricle with severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction. A cardiac MRI revealed a multiloculated mass in the left ventricle with multiple septa with internal enhancement and CT coronary angiography revealed compression of a coronary artery by the cystic mass. Serological tests for hydatid came out strongly positive, and subsequently, he underwent surgical excision under cardiopulmonary bypass. Postoperatively, he is doing well with no complaints.
Effect of Benson relaxation response technique on the quality of life among patients with systemic lupus erythematous: quasi-experimental study
Authors: Masadeh Arwa , Nofal Basema Mohammad , Masa'deh Rami
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To investigate the effect of Benson relaxation response technique (BRRT) on the quality of life (QOL) among patients with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE).

Methodology

A quasi-experimental design was used to conveniently recruit 170 patients with SLE. Participants were divided into two groups, the control and the intervention group for which the BRRT intervention was administered. Utilising an online questionnaire, the QOL was assessed among the two groups, before and 2 months after the intervention, using the Arabic version of the short form 36-item health survey.

Results

After 2 months of the intervention, the intervention group exhibited significantly higher levels in both components of QOL; physical (t(143.31)=15.35, p<0.001); and mental component (t(143.58)=12.35, p<0.001). Additionally, for the intervention group, the results revealed a statistically significant increase in the levels of both components from baseline measurement; physical (t(84)=−16.24, p<0.001) and mental component (t(84)=−12.93, p<0.001).

Conclusion

The findings demonstrate a notable positive impact of BRRT on QOL among patients with SLE. Healthcare professionals can potentially improve the overall well-being of patients with SLE and complement traditional treatment by implementing BRRT into their care.
Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) in lupus nephritis and beyond
Authors: Barguil Macedo Marina , Wang Ting , Jönsen Andreas , Bengtsson Anders A , Gunnarsson Iva , Svenungsson Elisabet , Lood Christian
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To study neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) levels in peripheral blood in SLE, and to propose a mechanism by which neutrophils secrete NGAL on stimulation with immune complexes (IC).

Methods

NGAL was measured by ELISA in two independent Swedish SLE cohorts acting as exploratory and validation cohort (n=124 and n=308, respectively), disease controls (n=38) and healthy controls (n=77). NGAL levels were measured in supernatant from IC-stimulated neutrophils in the presence or absence of a toll-like receptor 8 inhibitor (TLR8i).

Results

In the exploratory cohort, serum levels of NGAL were increased in patients with SLE as compared with healthy controls (p=0.021), and associated with histological-proven membranoproliferative lupus nephritis (LN) (p=0.018). In the validation cohort, plasma levels of NGAL were elevated in patients with a history of LN (p=0.0048), as well as in patients with SLE with secondary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) compared with those without (p=0.0022). In both cohorts, NGAL was able to discriminate patients with a creatinine clearance <60 mL/min (chronic kidney disease stage 3 or more) with high accuracy, with an area under the curve of 0.92 (p<0.0001) and 0.94 (p=0.0088), respectively. Neutrophils stimulated with IC secrete more NGAL, when compared with baseline, and this process was blocked by adding a TLR8i.

Conclusion

Blood levels of NGAL are increased in patients with SLE with decreased kidney function, and in those with secondary APS. The mechanism behind NGAL increase in SLE may be related to TLR8 pathway activation by circulating RNA-containing IC.
A general anisotropic yield function for K0-consolidated clays
Authors: Yin Zhen-Yu , Li Jian
Published: January 2025

The importance of yield surface for clays lies in describing compression behaviour, shear strength and induced anisotropy. Various yield surfaces were proposed and adopted in modelling, but they not consistent on describing anisotropic consolidation and/or undrained shear with both compression and extension stress paths of K0-consolidated clays. This study proposes a new generalized anisotropic yield function for K0-consolidated clays. First, limitations of existing yield surface are discussed based on comparisons with measurements of yield surfaces on various clays. Taking the more flexible isotropic yield function of Hardin and introducing the inclination angle of yield surface, a new generalized anisotropic yield surface is then proposed. The new anisotropic yield function is successfully examined on the predictive ability on the η-constant compression behaviour, and both the g(θ)-method and the TS-method can be adopted for taking into account the Lode angle effect in three-dimensional strength. Next, the new yield function is applied to develop an anisotropic elasto-plastic bounding surface model. The predictive performance is finally evaluated by comparing experimental and predicted results of anisotropic consolidation and shear tests on two reconstituted clays.
Experimental Investigation of Marine Soil Stabilization with Recycled Aggregates and MgO: Implications for CO2 Sequestration
Authors: Hou Yunlu , Onyekwena Chikezie Chimere , Li Qi
Published: January 2025

Dredged marine soils are increasingly recognized as a valuable resource amidst growing environmental concerns and the need for sustainable waste recycling. This study presents an innovative soil stabilization technique combining recycled aggregate (RA) and magnesium oxide (MgO), with a dual focus on enhancing soil properties and promoting carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration. The stabilizing effects of RA and MgO were evaluated independently and synergistically under varied curing conditions and durations, with microstructural and mechanical properties analysed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and uniaxial tests. Carbonation experiments quantified CO2 fixation potential, demonstrating that the formation of hydration and carbonation products, in conjunction with the dynamic moisture content and pH conditions, played a significant role in enhancing the structural reinforcement of the soil. The combined RA-MgO treatment achieved superior mechanical stability (1.28-3.02 MPa) and a CO2 sequestration capacity of up to 11 g/kg without compromising performance. This study highlights the dual environmental and structural benefits of utilising RA and low-content MgO for marine soil stabilization, offering a sustainable pathway to reduce carbon emissions, promote waste recycling, and support resilient infrastructure development.
Responses of Ice-Soil Mixtures to Ice Melting
Authors: Xu Zhengdan , Kamali Zarch Mohsen , Wang Haojie , Zeng Zhixiong , Zhang Limin
Published: January 2025

Numerous ice-soil-mixture landslide dams have formed in the cryosphere such as the Tibetan Plateau and resulted in disastrous consequences after these dams broke. The dam forming materials are often ice-soil mixtures that consist of graded soil particles and fragmented ice particles. The performance of such mixtures when subject to ice melting has rarely been studied; yet understanding the thermal-hydro-mechanical behavior of such ice-soil mixtures is essential for mitigating glacier hazards. In this study, the mechanical responses of ice-soil mixture to ice melting were investigated using an advanced stress- and temperature-controlled triaxial apparatus. Ice-soil mixtures with various initial ice contents were tested under different stress states. In each test, the progression of ice melting, local and global deformation, and post-melting stress-strain behavior were measured and evaluated. The test program led to the first batch of experiment data on the mechanical responses of ice-soil mixtures to ice melting. A relationship between normalized volumetric change and normalized time was established to describe the progression of ice melting. The melting of ice particles caused significant deformation, increases in the void ratio and degree of saturation, and reductions in the shear strength. These properties reached a steady state when the initial ice content exceeded 30%.
Comprehensible dynamics of quanta: from the quantum of action to the 2nd law of thermodynamics
Authors: Annila Arto
Published: January 2025

The 2nd law of thermodynamics is derived from the principle of least action, positing that the quantum of action is the indivisible and indestructible basic building block of everything. On their least-time paths to balance, the quanta move from the system to its surroundings, or vice versa, so that the kinetic, potential, and dissipated energy tally. When re-expressed in logarithmic terms, this current toward more probable states with decreasing free energy equates to the principle of increasing entropy, the 2nd law of thermodynamics, including path-independent dynamic and path dependent geometric phase shifts. Despite being exact, the equation of evolution to entropy maximum, equivalent to free energy minimum, cannot be solved because evolution, consuming its own driving forces, becomes path dependent. Thus, the future remains open within free energy bounds. As discussed, the entropy derived from the statistical physics of open quantum systems sums states distinguishable in energy; whereas, Boltzmann’s entropy enumerates microstates indistinguishable in energy. Consequently, the statistical physics of open systems differs from that of closed systems: The irreversible evolution in the state space toward thermodynamic balance contrasts with the steady-state revolution in phase space between conceivable configurations. This concrete comprehension explains, among other things, that increasing disorder is not a law of nature itself but a consequence of the law to attain balance with incoherent surroundings in the least time.