bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A yearlong record of acoustic propagation and ambient sound in a seagrass meadow
Authors: Ballard Megan , Lee Kevin M. , Capistrant-Fossa Kyle , McNeese Andrew R. , Sen Prithika , Jerome Thomas S. , Wilson Preston S. , Dunton Kenneth H.
Published: November 2022

Seagrasses are sentinel species whose structures are sensitive to variations in environmental conditions and thus reliable indicators of long-term changes in sea level and regional climate. The biological and physical characteristics of seagrasses are known to affect acoustic propagation. Gas bodies contained within the seagrass tissue as well as photosynthetic-driven bubble production result in free gas bubbles attached to the plants and in the water. The detachment of gas bubbles from the plants is also a source of ambient sound. In this work, we deployed a measurement system in a shallow (1.3 m deep) seagrass meadow that included an acoustic projector, a set of receiving hydrophones, an instrumentation pressure vessel that housed the electronics controlling the acoustic data acquisition and data storage, and a suite of environmental sensor loggers. Acoustic propagation and ambient sound were collected every ten minutes for a period of one year. Coincident measurements of water temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and photosynthetically active radiation were also collected and used to interpret the acoustic data. We present preliminary results from the yearlong deployment of the acoustic system in a moderately dense seagrass bed dominated by Thalassia testudinum (turtle grass) in Corpus Christi Bay, Texas. [Work supported by NSF.]
Temporary threshold shift from continuous 20–40 kHz hyperbolic upsweeps in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)
Authors: Mulsow Jason , Schlundt Carolyn E. , Accomando Alyssa W. , Finneran James J.
Published: November 2022

Naval continuous active sonar (CAS) can operate at high duty cycles and result in sound exposure levels (SELs, in dB re 1 μPa2s) that may induce temporary threshold shift (TTS) in marine mammals. Estimating the impacts of CAS on marine mammal hearing is difficult however, given the scarcity of TTS data for long-duration tonal exposures. For this ongoing study, bottlenose dolphin TTS was measured following exposure to continuous playback of 19-s hyperbolic upsweeps from 20–40 kHz, at multiple sound pressure levels and exposure durations from 2 to 60 min (100% duty cycle). The upsweep was based on characteristics of naval CAS, but frequency-shifted into the dolphin’s range of best hearing to predict how baleen whales might be affected by CAS exposures below 10 kHz. Hearing was measured using both psychophysical and auditory brainstem response measurements. To date, the greatest cumulative exposures of 180 dB SEL (normal-hearing dolphin) and 183 dB SEL (dolphin with elevated hearing thresholds) resulted in less than 6 dB of behavioral TTS. Auditory brainstem response amplitudes for these exposures did not indicate noise-induced fatigue. Future testing will evaluate TTS following exposure to 28-kHz pure tones with comparable SELs. [Work funded by US Navy Living Marine Resources.]
Travel-time variability during the 2016–2017 deep-water Canada Basin Acoustic Propagation Experiment
Authors: Worcester Peter F. , Dzieciuch Matthew , Vazquez Heriberto J. , Cornuelle Bruce
Published: November 2022

The Arctic Ocean is undergoing dramatic changes in response to increasing atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases. The decreases in ice extent, the near disappearance of multiyear ice, and changes in the stratification of the ocean all have important implications for underwater acoustic propagation. During the 2016–2017 Canada Basin Acoustic Propagation Experiment (CANAPE), a long vertical receiving array was embedded within an ocean acoustic tomography array of six acoustic transceivers with a radius of 150 km. The impulse response of the ocean was measured every four hours using broadband signals centered at about 250 Hz. The observed travel-time variability was extraordinarily low, reflecting both the low internal-wave energy level and sparseness of mesoscale eddies in the Canada Basin. The peak-to-peak travel time variability of the early, resolved ray arrivals was only a few tens of milliseconds, and the standard deviations over the entire year were only a few milliseconds. The travel-time spectra show increasing energy at lower frequencies and enhanced semidiurnal variability, presumably due to some combination of the semidiurnal tides and inertial variability. The travel-time fluctuations are roughly an order of magnitude smaller than is typical in midlatitudes at similar ranges.
Deep learning-based fast and dense microbubble localization for ultrasound localization microscopy
Authors: Shin YiRang , Lowerison Matthew R. , Dong Zhijie , Chen Xi , You Qi , ChandraSekaran Nathiya V. , Llano Daniel A. , Anastasio Mark , Song Pengfei
Published: November 2022

Ultrasound localization microscopy (ULM) has gained substantial attention owing to its ability to super-resolve minute blood vessels at clinically relevant imaging depth. However, accurate localization of individual microbubbles (MBs) in areas with high MB concentration and overlapping point spread functions (PSFs) remains a challenge. Furthermore, existing localization methods based on pre-determined MB PSFs cannot reflect the highly non-stationary PSFs that vary spatially with MB concentration and nonlinear responses, ultrasound diffraction, and imaging settings. To address these limitations, we implemented the DECODE (DEep COntext Dependent) neural network that was recently developed for optical imaging on ULM. DECODE constructs a Gaussian mixture model with a mixed MB count and localization loss to output the probability, uncertainty, and sub-pixel location corresponding to each MB detection, achieving accurate identification and localization of MBs. Notably, DECODE was trained with realistic simulation data that incorporates MB brightness, movement, ultrasound system noise, and PSFs produced by a generative adversarial network that encodes the internal distribution of MB PSFs obtained from in vivo ultrasound imaging. In high MB-density regime, simulation studies demonstrated that DECODE improved MB detection rate from 41% to 95%, and reduced localization error from 109.4 μm to 32.5 μm (20 MHz) when comparing to conventional MB localization techniques. DECODE also demonstrated improved in vivo ULM imaging in mouse brain.
Ultrasound-activated perfluorocarbon nanodroplets in ophthalmology
Authors: Silverman Ronald H. , Urs Raksha , Tezel Gulgun , Burgess Mark , Ketterling Jeffrey
Published: November 2022

Glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness, can result from increased intraocular pressure resulting from elevated outflow resistance. In this preliminary study, we consider the potential of ultrasound-activated perfluorocarbon nanodroplets (NDs) to increase the permeability of the outflow pathway. 100nm diameter NDs with a perfluoropentane core and lipid shell were introduced into the anterior chamber (AC) of ex vivo pig and in vivo rat eyes. Imaging (18 and 28 MHz) was performed with a weakly focused (F = 2.9) beam. Activation was induced by increasing the array sub-aperture to tighten the focus to F = 0.62 centrally. Images showed NDs to be distributed widely within the AC, from which they could enter the outflow pathway by virtue of their small dimension. At 28 MHz, NDs were activated at a peak negative pressure of 5 MPa, corresponding to a mechanical index of 1.8.Two days after treatment, rat eyes showed no sign of inflammation, but a few small gas bubbles were present in the AC. In this application, NDs are advantageous as cavitation nuclei with respect to conventional microbubble contrast agents because of their higher density and smaller diameter (<1/10th that of microbubble agents), which facilitate entry into the outflow channels. Future preclinical in vivo studies will assess the effect of treatment on IOP and outflow facility.
A time domain boundary element method for acoustic scattering by lined surfaces in a subsonic uniform mean flow
Authors: Hu Fang , Nark Douglas M.
Published: November 2022

A time domain boundary integral equation with Burton-Miller reformulation is presented for acoustic scattering by surfaces with liners in a uniform mean flow. The Ingard-Myers impedance boundary condition is implemented using a broadband multipole impedance model which is in turn converted into time domain differential equations to augment the boundary integral equation. The coupled integral-differential equations are solved numerically by a March-On-in-Time (MOT) scheme. While the Ingard-Myers condition is known to support Kelvin-Helmholtz instability due to its use of a vortex sheet interface between the flow and the lined surface, it is found that by neglecting a second-order derivative term in the current time domain impedance boundary condition formulation, the instability can be effectively avoided in computation. Proposed formulation and implementation are validated with numerical examples. Moreover, a minimization procedure for finding the poles and coefficients of the broadband multiple impedance expansion is formulated by which, unlike the commonly used vector-fitting method, passivity of the model is ensured. Numerical tests show the proposed minimization approach is effective for modeling liners that are commonly used in aeroacoustic applications.
Graduate programs in physical, engineering, and underwater acoustics at the Naval Postgraduate School
Authors: Godin Oleg A. , Gemba Kay L.
Published: November 2022

The Departments of Physics and of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the Naval Postgraduate School offer graduate programs in acoustics leading to MS and PhD degrees in applied physics and engineering acoustics. Engineering acoustics degrees can be completed in either traditional or distance learning modes. The departments also offer stand-alone academic certificate programs in fundamentals of engineering acoustics, underwater acoustics, and sonar system applications, with a set of three certificates leading to a MS degree in engineering acoustics. MS and PhD programs are interdisciplinary, with courses and laboratory work drawn principally from the fields of physics and electrical engineering. Subjects covered include waves and oscillations; fundamentals of physical and structural acoustics; the generation, propagation, and reception of sound in the ocean; civilian and military applications of sonar systems; and acoustic signal processing. Topics of recent theses and dissertations include development and field testing of novel sensors for atmospheric and ocean acoustics, modeling and measurements of ambient noise and sound propagation in the ocean, sound scattering in underwater waveguides, acoustic vector sensors and vector field properties, acoustic communications, noise interferometry, time reversal in acoustics, geo-acoustic inversion, acoustic remote sensing of the ocean, and acoustics of autonomous underwater and aerial vehicles.
Graduate training opportunities in the hearing sciences at the University of Louisville
Authors: Zahorik Pavel , Morgan Shae D. , Stilp Christian E.
Published: November 2022

The University of Louisville currently offers two branches of training opportunities for students interested in pursuing graduate training in the hearing sciences: A Ph.D. degree in experimental psychology with concentration in hearing science, and a clinical doctorate in audiology (Au.D.). The Ph.D. degree program offers mentored research training in areas such as psychoacoustics, speech perception, spatial hearing, and multisensory perception, and guarantees students four years of funding (tuition plus stipend). The Au.D. program is a 4-year program designed to provide students with the academic and clinical background necessary to enter audiologic practice. Both programs are affiliated with the Heuser Hearing Institute, which, along with the University of Louisville, provides laboratory facilities and clinical populations for both research and training. An accelerated Au.D./Ph.D. training program that integrates key components of both programs for training of students interested in clinically based research is under development. Additional information is available at: http://louisville.edu/medicine/degrees/audiology and https://louisville.edu/psychology/graduate/experimental.
Exposure uncertainty effects on regression parameter values
Authors: Horonjeff Richard D.
Published: November 2022

Exposure uncertainty in community noise exposure-response investigations can bias the results of regression analyses, especially when the range of sound levels is limited, the standard deviation of sound level uncertainty is more than a decibel or two and the distribution of sound levels across the sample population deviates significantly from a uniform one. The bias is manifested in the solved values of the regression coefficients, leading to incorrect representations of both the slope and intercept. Methods are available to reduce the magnitude of such bias and this paper examines the regression calibration approach. A basic overview of regression calibration is provided as well as its implementation in a logistic regression analysis. The effectiveness and limitations of the procedure are discussed, as are the requisite additional field measurements necessary to quantify situational parameters required in the calibration process. While coefficient bias can be mitigated, coefficient uncertainty that might otherwise be due only to uncertainty in the predicted variable (fraction annoyed) increases with increasing exposure uncertainty. Such uncertainty impacts the ability to observe differences between sample populations in both scalar and categorical variables.
Non-acoustic factors and their role in aircraft noise annoyance
Authors: Jovanovic Julia , Novak Colin
Published: November 2022

Non-acoustic factors have been acknowledged for some time as likely contributors to aircraft noise annoyance. They help explain why a given level of noise exposure can evoke severe annoyance in one person but not in another. Multiple analyses have concluded that non-acoustic factors explain more variance in annoyance results than noise exposure levels do. That begs questions as to why noise exposure levels are currently the only prescribed predictor of annoyance, and why regulating agencies continue to focus on only reducing noise exposure to combat annoyance. The subjective nature and lack of thorough understanding of non-acoustic factors has rendered them unusable for regulatory purposes, or even as topics of discussion with various stakeholders. What then is the purpose to study non-acoustic contributors to noise annoyance, other than to dismiss severe annoyance by implicating personal, attitudinal, or situational factors rather than the noise itself? This discussion suggests mechanisms by which non-acoustic factors contribute to annoyance and proposes practical ways to incorporate this knowledge in the prediction and mitigation of annoyance.
Variability of noise prediction models in catchments featuring significant barriers and noise-enhancing meteorological conditions
Authors: Jenkin Lance , Peng Jeffrey , Parnell Jeffrey
Published: November 2022

Accurate prediction of noise propagation from industrial sources forms a vital foundation from which to determine noise pollution levels on sensitive communities, as well as informing any mitigation measures required to address unacceptable impacts. A variety of sound propagation model options are available to practitioners in commercial software platforms such as SoundPLAN and CadnaA, and the ability to design effective noise barriers is contingent on the selection of a model that is suitable for the situation under consideration. This is particularly important in noise catchments that feature noise-enhancing meteorological conditions and where significant barriers exist, or are proposed between the industrial estate and potentially noise affected residential communities. In this work, sound levels computed using CONCAWE, ISO 9613-2, Nord2000 and CNOSSOS-EU sound propagation models for homogenous and favourable conditions are compared. The cross-sectional profile of the case study featured in this work is based on a real-world situation in the built-up suburban area of Sydney, Australia. Current findings highlight some key considerations, limitations, and pitfalls associated with older empirically derived sound propagation models.
Loudness effect on pitch and timbre discrimination; a continuing study
Authors: Bulla Wesley , Chon Song Hui
Published: November 2022

Fine discrimination in pitch and timbre is a requisite skill for musicians and audio professionals. While several trade organizations have standardized electronic-acoustic calibration levels for equipment testing and operations, conflicting and often unfounded perceptual theories along with a lack of psychophysical evidence make it difficult to pinpoint the optimal presentation level for best pitch and timbre discrimination. Results from our previous study (Bulla & Chon, FDMC, 2021) revealed higher scores for lower listening levels in conditional 2-AFC pitch and timbre discrimination tasks (15 vs 83 dBA SPL). While outcomes there indicated a consistent negative influence of the larger signal strength on the accuracy of both pitch and timbre discrimination performance, this continuing study examined changes of signal strength in order to establish whether or not observations here may apply across a variety of listening levels. Data collection is ongoing and will provide insight through observed performance metrics and help determine if there is an optimal loudness range for engaging in listening tasks such as identifying differences of pitch, discriminating fine details in timbre, or the blending and balancing of musical instruments.
Pursuit of new physics within the $$\Lambda _c\rightarrow \Delta K$$ decays
Authors: Wang Di
Published: November 2022

We point out the CP asymmetry in the chain decay of $$\Lambda _c^+\rightarrow \Delta ^+K(t)(\rightarrow \pi ^+\pi ^-)$$

Λ
c
+

→

Δ
+

K

(
t
)

(
→

π
+

π
-

)

is determined by the branching fractions of $$\Lambda ^+_c\rightarrow \Delta ^{++} K^-$$

Λ
c
+

→

Δ

+
+

K
-

, $$\Lambda ^+_c\rightarrow \Delta ^{+} K^0_{S,L}$$

Λ
c
+

→

Δ
+

K

S
,
L

0

and $$\Lambda ^+_c\rightarrow \Delta ^{0} K^+$$

Λ
c
+

→

Δ
0

K
+

modes under the isospin symmetry. The ambiguities from loop-induced quantities and $$SU(3)_F$$

S
U

(
3
)

F

breaking hadronic effects are avoided. Once the CP asymmetry in the $$\Lambda _c^+$$

Λ
c
+

decays into $$\Delta ^+$$

Δ
+

and neutral kaons is confirmed by experiments, we can check if it is beyond the Standard Model, or verify the CP-violating effect resulted from the interference between the Cabibbo-favored and the doubly Cabibbo-suppressed amplitudes with the neutral kaon mixing. Future measurements of branching fractions play a critical role in reducing the uncertainties.
Fairness and equity in resource allocation and decision-making
Authors: Monachou Faidra , Stoica Ana-Andreea
Published: November 2022

Fairness and equity considerations in the allocation of social goods and the development of algorithmic systems pose new challenges for decision-makers and interesting questions for the EC community. We overview a list of papers that point towards emerging directions in this research area.
Meta-Analysis in Organizational Research: A Guide to Methodological Options
Authors: Morris Scott B.
Published: November 2022

Meta-analysis provides a powerful tool for integrating findings from the research literature and building statistical models to explore trends and inconsistencies in the research base. Meta-analysis starts with a process for translating results from each study into an effect size that represents all findings in a common metric. Statistical models are then applied to estimate the mean, variance, and moderators of effect size. This article explores several key decision points in conducting a meta-analysis, including issues in obtaining a common metric, accounting for psychometric artifacts, and choosing an appropriate statistical model. It provides recommendations for choosing among alternate approaches and reporting results to ensure transparency.
Exosomes Derived from Runx2-Overexpressing BMSCs Enhance Cartilage Tissue Regeneration and Prevent Osteoarthritis of the Knee in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Hu Jing , Shi Zheng-shuai , Liu Xiang-Zhong , Cai Han-tao , Yang Ao-fei , Sun Da-ming , Xu Liang-liang , Yang Yi , Li Zhang-Hua
Published: November 2022

Objectives. Osteoarthritis is the leading disease of joints worldwide. Osteoarthritis may be treated by exosomes derived from Runx2-overexpressed bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (R-BMSCs-Exos). R-BMSCs-Exos would promote the proliferation, migration, and phenotypic maintenance of articular chondrocytes. Methods. BMSCs were transfected with and without Runx2. Exosomes derived from BMSCs and R-BMSCs (BMSCs-Exos and R-BMSCs-Exos) were isolated and identified. Proliferation, migration, and phenotypic maintenance were determined in vitro and compared between groups. The mechanism for activation of Yes-associated protein (YAP) was investigated using small interfering RNA (siRNA). The exosomes’ preventive role was determined in vivo using Masson trichrome and immunohistochemical staining. Results. R-BMSCs-Exos enhance the proliferation, migration, and phenotypic maintenance of articular chondrocytes based on the YAP being activated. R-BMSCs-Exos prevent knee osteoarthritis as studied in vivo through a rabbit model. Conclusions. Findings emphasize the efficacy of R-BMSCs-Exos in preventing osteoarthritis. Potential source of exosomes is sorted out for the advantages and shortcomings. The exosomes are then modified based on the molecular mechanisms to address their limitations. Such exosomes derived from modified cells have the role in future therapeutics.
Hepatitis A and E Viruses in Mussels from Cherrat Estuary in Morocco: Detection by Real-Time Reverse Transcription PCR Analysis
Authors: Bazir Hanaâ , Hassou Najwa , El Mellouli Fatiha , Zekhnini Hasnae , Najib Saliha , Ennaji Moulay Mustapha
Published: November 2022

The aim of the present study was to evaluate hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis E virus (HEV) contamination in mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from Cherrat estuary (Moroccan Atlantic Coast), Morocco. In total, 52 samples (n = 12 mussels/each) were collected at four sites in the estuary, monthly, between March 2019 and March 2020. HAV and HEV were detected by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) according to the ISO/TS 15216 method. HAV was detected in 46.15% of analyzed samples. Conversely, HEV was not detected in any sample. Moreover, the HAV detection rate was significantly associated with seasonal rainfall variations. This qualitative study on HAV and HEV contamination highlights the interest of studying mussel samples from wild areas. As HAV presence in mussels represents a potential health risk, viral contamination surveillance of mussels is necessary to protect consumers. HAV shellfish contamination must be monitored at Cherrat estuary because of the role played by shellfish as HAV reservoirs and/or vehicles in fecal-oral HAV transmission.
Soluções Baseadas na Natureza e adaptação climática no Brasil: estudo de cidades costeiras vulneráveis
Authors: Ximenes Deize Sbarai Sanches , Maglio Ivan Carlos
Published: November 2022

As cidades costeiras brasileiras vêm sofrendo riscos devido aos eventos climáticos, e o rápido desenvolvimento urbano agrava este cenário de perdas humanas e ambientais. O primeiro grande impulso às estratégias de adaptação climática no planejamento foi o desenvolvimento do Plano Nacional de Adaptação à Mudança do Clima, que orienta a integração do uso e ocupação do solo à preservação ambiental e prevenção aos riscos de desastres naturais. Neste contexto de vulnerabilidade urbana a eventos extremos, as Soluções baseadas na Natureza (SbN) são importantes estratégias de conservação da biodiversidade, destacando-se as medidas de adaptação baseadas em ecossistemas (AbE), que fortalecem a resiliência urbana, e vem ganhando destaque pelos seus múltiplos benefícios; utilizam da conservação e restauração de ecossistemas para oferecer serviços ambientais e possibilitam defesas naturais contra enchentes e deslizamentos. As cidades costeiras brasileiras como Salvador, Recife, Rio de Janeiro e Santos são consideradas com alta vulnerabilidade às mudanças climáticas, e vem desenvolvendo ações de adaptação e índices de vulnerabilidade que analisamos neste artigo. No caso de Santos, no Estado de São Paulo, em seu Plano de Mudanças Climáticas, foi proposto projeto de AbE na área urbana de Monte Serrat para a recuperação e ampliação dos remanescentes de Mata Atlântica com a participação da comunidade local. Concluiu-se que há um grande potencial para soluções baseadas na natureza - SbN, e em especial de medidas AbE, nas cidades costeiras mais vulneráveis a riscos climáticos, mas ainda há poucas ações concretas aplicadas para ampliar a segurança da população e a recuperação ambiental. Com a evolução da adaptação climática no Brasil há uma demanda emergencial por prognósticos e identificação de riscos climáticos na escala local, e em ações de AbE para ampliar a prevenção de risco. Para tal é necessário maior disseminação do conhecimento técnico-científico em vulnerabilidade climática, intercâmbio com redes mundiais em resiliência urbana e maior investimento em ações de AbE no âmbito da adaptação climática.
Au-delà de la raison : Trace du soufisme dans les écrits de ‘Alī b. Muḥammad al-Jurjānī (m. 816/1413)
Authors: Abtahi Zeinab
Published: November 2022

De ‘Alī ibn Muḥammad al-Jurjānī (740-816 /1340-1413) on connaît davantage sa maîtrise des subtilités des débats en matière de théologie argumentative que son approche du soufisme qui fait l’objet du présent article, à l’appui d’une documentation inédite fournie par quelques-uns de ses traités persans et complétée par son fameux livre des définitions Kitāb al-Taʿrīfāt ainsi sa glose sur Tasdīd al-Qawāʿid de Shams al-Dīn al-Iṣfahānī. Le but est d’éclairer l’attachement de l’auteur à la connaissance mystique et sa vénération pour les maîtres soufis, sur fond d’apologie de la théorie de l’unicité de l’Être (waḥdat al-wujūd) d’Ibn ‘Arabī et de son école, à une époque où la mystique spéculative akbarienne s’apprête à entrer en résonance avec la gnose philosophique iranienne, à la suite du déclin du kalām ashʿarite.
Australian Melolonthini (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae): reclassification of eight species to Antitrogus Burmeister, 1855 and Barryfilius new genus
Authors: ALLSOPP PETER G.
Published: November 2022

The status and generic placement of nine species of Australian Melolonthini (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae) are reassessed. The monotypic genus Othnonius Olliff, 1890, is synonymised with Antitrogus Burmeister, 1855 (new synonym), resulting in Antitrogus batesii (Olliff, 1890) new combination. Lepidiota ciliata Britton, 1978 is transferred to Antitrogus as Antitrogus ciliatus (Britton) new combination. A group of six species attributed to Lepidiota Kirby, 1828 that do not have the scales characteristic of that genus are transferred to Barryfilius new genus as Barryfilius laevis (Arrow, 1932) new combination (type species), Barryfilius centralis (Britton, 1978) new combination, Barryfilius contiguus (Britton, 1978) new combination, Barryfilius lewisae (Britton, 1978) new combination, Barryfilius quinarius (Britton, 1978) new combination, and Barryfilius vernus (Britton, 1978) new combination. Lepidiota oblonga Brenske, 1900, is shown to be a junior synonym of Lepidiota rothei Blackburn, 1888 (new synonym). Revised keys to the genera of Australian Melolonthini, and to the species of Antitrogus and Australian Lepidiota are provided. The higher classification of the group is reviewed, and a checklist of Australian genera and species is given.
Review of vegetation phenology trends in China in a changing climate
Authors: Zhang Jing , Chen Shouzhi , Wu Zhaofei , Fu Yongshuo H
Published: November 2022

Vegetation phenology is sensitive to climate change and has been defined as the footprint of ongoing climate change. Previous studies have shown that the spatial difference in China’s vegetation phenology varies substantially in both spring and autumn. Here, we reviewed phenological dynamics at the national and the regional scale of China over the period 1982−2020 using a remote sensing-based dataset and meta-analysis from phenological studies in China. We also explored the underlying mechanisms of both spring and autumn phenology and discussed potential phenological studies under future climate conditions. We found that, over the past four decades, the spring phenology advanced at a rate of 0.23 ± 0.47 days/year, while the autumn phenology was delayed at a rate of 0.17 ± 0.46 days/year. This led to an extended vegetation growth season of approximately 5 days per decade. The trends in the spring and autumn phenology were spatially specific in the Northern region, Northwest region, Qinghai–Tibet region, and Southern region: the change in spring phenology was −0.16, −0.46, −0.18, and −0.13 days/year, respectively, while the change in autumn phenology was 0.02, 0.32, 0.09, and 0.28 days/year, respectively. We also explored the dominant climatic drivers of regional phenological changes. We found that temperature was the dominant factor for spring phenology in cold regions, while precipitation, radiation, and temperature co-determined spring phenology in warm regions. The autumn phenology was affected by all three environmental cues but the effect of temperature was larger than that of radiation and precipitation across all regions. In future climate warming conditions, we recommend that studies focus on the phenological feedback mechanisms, such as the climatic and hydrological effects of vegetation changes, and agricultural phenology to investigate its fundamental role in crop productivity, especially under extreme climate events, to ensure national food security and ecological security.
The What, Why, and How of Adolescent Interpersonal Goal Setting Following a Growth Mindset Intervention
Authors: Martow Jennifer H. , Heaman Jessie A. L. , Lumley Margaret N.
Published: November 2022

Interpersonal relationships are central to adolescent well-being. The current research investigates interpersonal goal setting among a general sample of adolescents following a growth mindset intervention. This study qualitatively explores what interpersonal goals adolescents set, outcomes they aim to achieve, obstacles they perceive, and actions to overcome the obstacles during the mental contrasting and the implementation intentions goal setting task (MCII). Participants included 217 grade 9 and 12 students (63.13% White/European). One content and three thematic analyses were conducted on adolescent responses to the MCII. Participants largely set goals related to improving the quantity and quality of their friendships. The ultimate ideal outcome of goal achievement was an improved emotional state. Obstacles were both internal (e.g., characteristics) or external (e.g., others) in nature. Actions identified to overcome the obstacle were either active or passive with passive approaches exhibiting lack of congruence with intervention content. Findings contribute to the empirical understanding of adolescent interpersonal goal setting and provide researchers/practitioners a rich resource of youth experiences to draw on when considering goal setting interventions. A better understanding of adolescents’ lived experiences setting goals also stands to benefit those who seek to aid youth in improving well-being.
Dynamic modeling and vibration control for isolation systems based on magnetorheological elastomers
Authors: Zhu Guanghong , Li Zigang , Guo Hulun , Bai Xianxu Frank , Xiong Yeping , Li Ming
Published: November 2022

A fractional rheological model was developed for MRE-based isolation systems to investigate the influence of material elasticity and viscosity on the isolation effect. The identification of model parameters was realized by fitting experimental data of dynamic mechanical analysis for MRE structures. The superior rationality of modeling was reflected with the good consistency and repeatability. The transmissibility was calculated both theoretically and numerically. The method of numerical simulation was verified with an excellent agreement between theoretical and numerical results. The influence of model parameters on transmissibility and energy flow was analyzed to interpret the dynamic behavior of vibration isolation systems. A control strategy based on the coincidence frequency was developed for this MRE-based isolation system to protect the foundation or the sensitive equipment against periodic vibrations. The isolation effect was investigated from the prospect of transmissibility and energy flow. Eventually, the fuzzy control algorithm was adopted to isolate the sensitive equipment against random motions of the ground, and the effectiveness was further validated by comparing with the passive isolation.
Shinarumpite, a new cobalt uranyl sulfate mineral from the Scenic mine, San Juan County, Utah, USA, structurally related to leydetite
Authors: Kampf Anthony R. , Plášil Jakub , Olds Travis A. , Ma Chi , Marty Joe
Published: November 2022

The new mineral shinarumpite (IMA2021-105), [Co(H2O)6][(UO2)(SO4)2(H2O)]⋅4H2O, was found in the Scenic mine on Fry Mesa, White Canyon district, San Juan County, Utah, USA, where it occurs as a secondary phase on granular quartz matrix in association with gypsum, deliensite, Co-rich rietveldite, scenicite, shumwayite and sulfur. Shinarumpite crystals are transparent, yellow, blades or prisms, up to 1 mm in length. The mineral has white streak, vitreous lustre and is nonfluorescent. It is brittle with irregular, curved fracture. The Mohs hardness is ~2½ and it has a perfect {100} cleavage. The density is 2.58(2) g⋅cm–3. Optically, the mineral is biaxial (–) with α = 1.515(2), β = 1.526(2), γ = 1.529(2) (white light); 2V = 55(1)°; extreme r < v dispersion; orientation: Z = b, X ^ a = 30° in obtuse β; pleochroism: X = very pale yellow, Y = pale yellow, Z = light yellow; X < Y < Z. The Raman spectrum exhibits bands consistent with UO22+, SO42– and O–H. Electron microprobe analysis provided the empirical formula [(Co0.51Ni0.28Fe0.21)Σ1.00(H2O)6][(UO2)(SO4)2(H2O)]⋅4H2O. The five strongest powder X-ray diffraction lines are [dobs Å(I)(hkl)]: 10.37(100)(200), 5.73(43)(111), 5.20(70)(400, 202, 211), 4.70(31)($\bar{3}$11) and 3.326(30)(213, 021). Shinarumpite is monoclinic, P21/c, a = 21.0549(15), b = 6.8708(5), c = 12.9106(5), β = 96.678(7)°, V = 1885.03(17) Å3 and Z = 4. In the structure of shinarumpite (R1 = 0.0336 for 2623 I > 2σI), linkages of pentagonal bipyramids and tetrahedra form an infinite [(UO2)(SO4)2(H2O)]2– sheet. Isolated Co(H2O)6 octahedra and H2O groups occupy the interlayer region linking the sheets via an extensive system of hydrogen bonds. The structure of shinarumpite is very similar to that of leydetite. Uranyl sulfate structural unit types are discussed with respect to frequency and charge deficiency per anion (CDA).
Effects of ITO Contact Sizes on Performance of Blue Light MicroLEDs
Authors: Hsu Yu-Hsuan , Lo Yu-Yun , Lin Yi-Hsin , Zan Hsiao-Wen , Horng Ray-Hua
Published: November 2022

In this study, the effect of ITO contact ratio for blue light micro-light-emitting diode (µLED) with dimensions 40 μm × 40 μm was assessed. The contact ratio from 0.2 to 0.8 was designed for the ratio of electrode area to light-emitting area. As the contact ratio increased from 0.2 to 0.8, the turn-on voltage of µLED decreased. It could be due to the short lateral diffusion length in multiple quantum wells (MQW) and lower parallel resistance for the µLED with a large contact ratio. The leakage currents of single µLED were below 5.1 × 10–9 A, no matter the contact ratio. It means that the contact ratio does not affect the leakage current as measured on single chip. Moreover, µLED array with a 0.8 contact ratio presented the highest output power than other samples (5.25 mW as the current density of 1875 A/cm2). It could attribute to the MQWs usage, the metal contact reflective behavior and less current crowding, which generated more carriers and extracted more lighting from the µLED. The simulation data using SpeCLED software agreed well with these experiments, and µLED with a 0.8 contact ratio showed the best optoelectronic properties.
MP4: a machine learning based classification tool for prediction and functional annotation of pathogenic proteins from metagenomic and genomic datasets
Authors: Gupta Ankit , Malwe Aditya S. , Srivastava Gopal N. , Thoudam Parikshit , Hibare Keshav , Sharma Vineet K.
Published: November 2022

Bacteria can exceptionally evolve and develop pathogenic features making it crucial to determine novel pathogenic proteins for specific therapeutic interventions. Therefore, we have developed a machine-learning tool that predicts and functionally classifies pathogenic proteins into their respective pathogenic classes. Through construction of pathogenic proteins database and optimization of ML algorithms, Support Vector Machine was selected for the model construction. The developed SVM classifier yielded an accuracy of 81.72% on the blind-dataset and classified the proteins into three classes: Non-pathogenic proteins (Class-1), Antibiotic Resistance Proteins and Toxins (Class-2), and Secretory System Associated and capsular proteins (Class-3). The classifier provided an accuracy of 79% on real dataset-1, and 72% on real dataset-2. Based on the probability of prediction, users can estimate the pathogenicity and annotation of proteins under scrutiny. Tool will provide accurate prediction of pathogenic proteins in genomic and metagenomic datasets providing leads for experimental validations. Tool is available at: http://metagenomics.iiserb.ac.in/mp4.
Genome-wide identification, molecular evolution and expression analysis of the non-specific lipid transfer protein (nsLTP) family in Setaria italica
Authors: Li Feng , Fan Kai , Guo Xuhu , Liu Jianxia , Zhang Kun , Lu Ping
Published: November 2022

Background

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) is a millet species with high tolerance to stressful environments. Plant non-specific lipid transfer proteins (nsLTPs) are a kind of small, basic proteins involved in many biological processes. So far, the genome of S. italica has been fully sequenced, and a comprehensive understanding of the evolution and expression of the nsLTP family is still lacking in foxtail millet.

Results

Forty-five nsLTP genes were identified in S. italica and clustered into 5 subfamilies except three single genes (SinsLTP38, SinsLTP7, and SinsLTP44). The proportion of SinsLTPs was different in each subfamily, and members within the same subgroup shared conserved exon–intron structures. Besides, 5 SinsLTP duplication events were investigated. Both tandem and segmental duplication contributed to nsLTP expansion in S. italica, and the duplicated SinsLTPs had mainly undergone purifying selection pressure, which suggested that the function of the duplicated SinsLTPs might not diverge much. Moreover, we identified the nsLTP members in 5 other monocots, and 41, 13, 10, 4, and 1 orthologous gene pairs were identified between S. italica and S. viridis, S. bicolor, Z. mays, O. sativa, and B. distachyon, respectively. The functional divergence within the nsLTP orthologous genes might be limited. In addition, the tissue-specific expression patterns of the SinsLTPs were investigated, and the expression profiles of the SinsLTPs in response to abiotic stress were analyzed, all the 10 selected SinsLTPs were responsive to drought, salt, and cold stress. Among the selected SinsLTPs, 2 paired duplicated genes shared almost equivalent expression profiles, suggesting that these duplicated genes might retain some essential functions during subsequent evolution.

Conclusions

The present study provided the first systematic analysis for the phylogenetic classification, conserved domain and gene structure, expansion pattern, and expression profile of the nsLTP family in S. italica. These findings could pave a way for further comparative genomic and evolution analysis of nsLTP family in foxtail millet and related monocots, and lay the foundation for the functional analysis of the nsLTPs in S. italica.
Correlates of co-occurring physical child punishment and physical intimate partner violence in Colombia, Mexico and Peru
Authors: Bott Sarah , Ruiz-Celis Ana P. , Mendoza Jennifer Adams , Guedes Alessandra
Published: November 2022

Background

Violent discipline of children and intimate partner violence (IPV) against women are global public health and human rights problems. To address calls for more evidence on intersections, this study aimed to expand knowledge about correlates of physical child punishment, physical IPV against women and their co-occurrence (both) in the same household. 

Methods

Using national, population-based survey datasets from Colombia, Mexico and Peru, multinomial logistic regressions examined correlates of three mutually exclusive patterns of violence in the household: physical child punishment (only), physical IPV ever (only) and co-occurrence (both), each compared with no violence, after adjusting for other factors. Logistic regression was used to analyse odds ratios of physical child punishment in households affected by IPV past year and before past year compared with never, after adjusting for other factors.

Results

In all countries, adjusted odds ratios (aOR) of co-occurrence were significantly higher among women with lower education, more than one child, a child aged 2–5, a partner who tried to socially isolate her, and a history of childhood violence (caregiver violence and/or IPV exposure). They were significantly lower among women who reported collaborative partnerships (joint decision-making and/or shared chores). Co-occurrence was also significantly correlated with a history of child marriage/early motherhood in Colombia and Mexico, partner’s excess drinking in Mexico and Peru, agreement that physical child punishment was necessary in Peru and partner’s history of childhood violence in Colombia and Mexico. Evidence of shared risk factors was strongest for social isolation and caregiver histories of childhood violence and of shared protective factors for collaborative partnership dynamics. In all countries, associations between physical child punishment and physical IPV remained significant after adjusting for other factors, suggesting that correlations could not be explained by shared risk factors alone.

Conclusions

These findings are consistent with several theories relevant for violence prevention: 1) more collaborative, gender equitable partnerships may protect both children and women from violence; 2) violence between intimate partners may ‘spill over’ into violence against children (as correlations could not be explained by shared risk factors alone); and 3) there appears to be strong evidence of intergenerational transmission of violence.
Associations of functional health literacy with socioeconomic and demographic status among Filipinos
Authors: Tejero Lourdes Marie S. , Siongco Kathryn Lizbeth L. , Pinlac Paul Adrian V. , Co Kim Carmela D. , Tolabing Ma. Carmen C.
Published: November 2022

Background

Health literacy determines an individual’s decision-making process in providing judgment concerning appropriate healthcare. Considering the various purposes of literacy for people, functional health literacy (FHL) was identified as a type of literacy that is measured by the application of literacy skills to health-related materials as a result of health education. The objective of this study was to identify the possible socio-demographic correlates of FHL of Filipinos.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 2,303 Filipinos aged 15 to 70 years old in 2018–2019 utilizing the National Health Literacy Survey. Functional health literacy was determined using the FHL-5 Test which measured prose, document, and numeracy skills. Descriptive analysis presented socio-demographic characteristics and level of FHL. Log-binomial regression was used to estimate associations of FHL adequacy with socio-demographic characteristics.

Results

Overall, the study involved 1,997 (86.7%) qualified participants. Most of them demonstrated prose literacy skills and had adequate FHL. Adjusted regression analyses showed that participants with a college-level education (Adjusted prevalence ratio [APR]: 1.43, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.27–1.60), categorized under domestic service occupation (APR 1.19, 95% CI: 1.03–1.37), and those residing in urban areas (APR: 1.14, 95% CI 1.06–1.24) were significantly more prevalent in exhibiting FHL adequacy. In contrast, male participants and individuals aged 60 years or above were less likely to demonstrate FHL adequacy.

Conclusions

The study presents a baseline assessment of the functional health literacy level, measured using the FHL-5 Test, of adults in the Philippines. Majority of the participants demonstrated FHL adequacy, with relatively higher scores in prose than numeracy literacy. The measurement of FHL adequacy can inform policies on methods of health education and communication, emphasizing the need to stratify the audience based on socio-demographic characteristics and adapt the content and design of informational materials for population-based health educational programs.
Is pinworm infection still a public health concern among children in resource-rich regions? Trends in pinworm infection prevalence and associated factors among children in Hualien County, Taiwan: a retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Hsiao Yu-Chao , Wang Jen-Hung , Chu Chia-Hsiang , Chang Yu-Hsun , Chang Yung-Chieh , Jan Rong-Hwa , Chu Shao-Yin , Yang Shang-Hsien , Chen Jui-Shia , Chen Ming-Chun
Published: November 2022

Background

Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) is a common intestinal parasitic infection in children. A gradual decrease in the prevalence of pinworm infection has been noted in resource-rich settings, such as Taiwan. However, the influence of sociodemographic factors on the temporal trend in pinworm infection rates in children under the current pinworm infection prevention policy in Taiwan is not well characterized. This study aimed to evaluate the trend of pinworm infection prevalence and the associated factors among children in Hualien County, Taiwan.

Methodology

In this retrospective cross-sectional study, we included a total of 56,197 students (aged 6–10 years) in grades 1 and 4 in Hualien in 2009–2018. Children were screened for pinworm infection using adhesive cellophane perianal swabs in the routine student health examination. Logistic regression was conducted to evaluate the factors associated with pinworm infection. Associations between dependent and independent variables were measured by odds ratios. The Cochran–Armitage test was used to assess whether there were significant trends in different stratifications. Variables with P-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 56,197 school-age children from grades 1 and 4 during 2009–2018 were included. Young age and male sex were risk factors for pinworm infection (P < 0.001). A negative correlation between body mass index and enterobiasis was observed, and decreased pinworm infection was noted during the study reference period. Children living in suburban and rural areas had higher odds of having a pinworm infection than those living in urban areas (P < 0.001). A significant decrease in the overall prevalence rate of pinworm infection was observed among children in 2009–2018 (P < 0.001). However, there was no obvious change in the pinworm infection rate in rural areas during this period (P = 0.953), and it was higher than that in urban and suburban areas.

Conclusions

The overall prevalence of pinworm infection gradually decreased from 2009 to 2018 among school-age children in Hualien. However, there was no declining trend in pinworm infection in rural areas. Young age, male sex, and rural residence were significantly associated with pinworm infection. Pinworm infection remains a major public health concern among children in rural areas of Hualien.