bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovation drivers in regions. Does urbanization matter?
Authors: Ciołek Dorota , Golejewska Anna , Zabłocka‐Abi Yaghi Adriana
Published: March 2022

Most research aimed at identifying factors stimulating innovation activity at the regional level poorly takes into account the fact that the importance of various factors may differ in regions with different degrees of urbanization. Moreover, there is still few comprehensive empirical studies identifying innovation systems as regional 'ecosystems', which significantly expands the set of potential factors influencing innovation activity. In the present study, we address this research gap on the example of Polish NUTS 3 regions. Using econometric models of panel data we analyse regional innovation ecosystems from the perspective of quintuple helix components. It was proven that the impact of the various elements depends on the urbanization degree. One of the findings is that, while the science sector turned out to be one of the most important for urban regions and social capital is key for rural areas, the road infrastructure appears to be important for intermediate regions. The results obtained may constitute the basis for differentiation of policies addressed to selected, more or less urbanised areas, not only in terms of factors reflecting the enterprises directly but also in such aspects as science, administration, territorial conditions, natural environment and other elements of the enterprise environment.
Early prenatal diagnosis of Hb Lepore Boston‐Washington and β‐thalassemia on fetal celomatic DNA
Authors: Giambona Antonino , Leto Filippo , Cassarà Filippo , Tartaglia Viviana , Marchese Giuseppe , Orlandi Emanuela , Cigna Valentina , Picciotto Francesco , Maggio Aurelio , Vinciguerra Margherita
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Analysis of fetal DNA in at risk couples for thalassemia is performed from fetal trophoblast or amniotic fluid cells. Although these procedures are in common use, the main limitation is essentially due to the late gestation week in which diagnosis is performed. The celomic cavity develops around 4 weeks of pregnancy within the extraembryonic mesoderm and contains embryonic erythroid precursor cells as a source of fetal DNA that can be used to perform invasive prenatal diagnosis.

Methods

Celomatic fluids were obtained at 8 weeks of gestation in thirteen women with high‐risk pregnancies. Twelve of these couples were at risk for Hb Lepore disease and β‐thalassemia and one couple represented a rare case in which both parents were carriers of Hb Lepore Boston‐Washington. Fetal cells were isolated by micromanipulator and nested polymerase chain reactions were performed.

Results

The analysis was successfully performed in all examined cases. Two fetuses were found to have a compound heterozygosity for β‐thalassemia and Hb Lepore Boston‐Washington, three fetuses were found to be carriers of β‐thalassemia, three fetuses of Hb Lepore, five were found without parental mutations. The genotypic analysis, carried out both by amniocentesis and on abortive tissue or after birth, showed concordance with results obtained on fetal celomic DNA.

Conclusion

Our results unequivocally show that fetal DNA can be obtained by nucleated fetal cells present in celomatic fluid and demonstrate for the first time that prenatal diagnosis of β‐thalassemia and Hb Lepore may be feasible in an earlier time of pregnancy than other procedures.
Does the monetary policy regime matter in the effect of credit on growth?
Authors: Altuzarra Amaia , Bustillo Ricardo , Rodríguez Carlos
Published: March 2022

This study sheds light on the finance–growth link by (i) carefully taking into account the lessons learned from the empirical literature, (ii) extending the period of analysis to include the years following the global financial crisis (GFC), (iii) adding the monetary‐policy regime as a concomitant factor in this relation, and (iv) running different specifications and following a robust econometric approach. We find that the positive effect of finance via credit vanishes between the end of the 1990s and the beginning of the 2000s, coinciding with most countries reaching a high level of bank credit and with the GFC. This finding is also observed if an inverted U‐shaped specification is used to capture the relation between finance and growth. As for the monetary‐policy regime, the results reveal that the inflation‐targeting strategy does not exert a positive influence on economic growth.
Young migrants and their transition to adulthood: A case study of Bhutan's Wangdue and Punakha districts
Authors: Dorji Kinley , Tshewang Sonam , Lakey Lakey , Tenzin Jigme
Published: March 2022

This study seeks to understand the transition of youthful rural migrants to urban areas of Bhutan. The goal is to help frame better policy guidelines and efficient intervention strategies. A majority of these migrants are school dropouts with socio‐economic problems who primarily left in search of a better life, despite having arable land to farm back in their home villages. Their urban earnings failed to cover their daily household expenses and other needs, thus affecting the kind and quality of life in an urban setting. Not enough support for migrant youth exists during such critical and vulnerable transition stages when they face the huge responsibilities of independent living early on in their lives. The future for these young migrants remains bleak in the absence of a clear‐cut protective social support and an efficient intervention system.
Depth and latitudinal gradients of diversity in seamount benthic communities
Authors: Bridges Amelia E. H. , Barnes David K. A. , Bell James B. , Ross Rebecca E. , Howell Kerry L.
Published: March 2022

Aim

Latitudinal and bathymetric species diversity gradients in the deep sea have been identified, but studies have rarely considered these gradients across hard substratum habitats, such as seamount and oceanic island margins. This study aimed to identify whether the current understanding of latitudinal and bathymetric gradients in α‐diversity (species richness) apply to seamount ecosystems, as well as ascertaining whether identifiable trends were present in seamount β‐diversity along a bathymetric gradient.

Location

Exclusive Economic Zones of Saint Helena, Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha, spanning 8–40°S in the South Atlantic.

Taxon

Seamount megabenthic communities.

Methods

Images from 39 transects, collected between 250 and 950 m, were used to characterise species richness. We subsequently applied general linear models to test possible environmental drivers across latitudinal and bathymetric ranges. Regression models were employed to investigate the β‐diversity gradient of species turnover with depth.

Results

Transects in temperate latitude had significantly higher species richness than those in the tropics. Surface primary productivity and substrate hardness both had significant positive effects on species richness, and a weak relationship between temperature and species richness was observed. No significant relationship between species richness and depth was detected, but there was significant species turnover with depth.

Main conclusions

Seamounts and oceanic islands do not conform to established depth–diversity relationships within the depth range studied. However, seamounts and oceanic islands in the South Atlantic do appear to follow a parabolic latitudinal diversity gradient, closely associated with higher productivity in temperate regions.
Repetitive extragenic palindromic and enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus sequence‐based typing of Shiga toxin‐producing Escherichia coli from bovine samples
Authors: Joseph Jomy , Sankarshanan Mohan , Kalyanikutty Sudha
Published: March 2022

The strain typing of Shiga toxin‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is challenging due to its high genetic variability. In the present study, two polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based typing methods—repetitive extragenic palindromic sequences PCR (REP‐PCR) and enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus sequences PCR (ERIC‐PCR)—are evaluated for their efficacy in differentiating the strains. The present study used 100 strains of STEC isolated from bovine meat, bovine feces, and swabs from the chopping boards. The REP‐PCR profiles showed 21 different banding patterns, whereas ERIC‐PCR profiles obtained 18 patterns among the tested strains. The dendrogram prepared by the neighbor‐joining method formed eight and seven clusters for REP and ERIC‐PCR, respectively. The discriminatory indices for the typing methods were 87.83 and 83.03% for REP and ERIC‐PCR, respectively. Thus, the clusters based on REP and ERIC‐PCR fingerprints were unambiguous and thus could be useful for phylogenetic clustering and epidemiological surveillance. The nonparametric multidimensional scaling plots showed more than 75 and 60% similarities within populations of different REP and ERIC clusters, respectively, regarding its source of isolation, serogroup, and distribution virulence markers. The REP and the ERIC sequences are good molecular markers that offer rapid, cost‐effective, and easy molecular typing for STEC strains.
The effects of exposure to others' ideas and their ratings on online crowdsourcing platforms on the quantity and novelty of subsequently generated ideas
Authors: Chen Bo , Althuizen Niek
Published: March 2022

Research has shown that exposing people to others' ideas and the ratings of those ideas can influence their subsequent idea generation performance. In this paper, we utilize a socio‐cognitive perspective to study this in an online crowdsourcing context. The cognitive factor concerns knowledge activated in memory because of idea exposure, which can be used for subsequent idea generation. The social factor concerns idea ratings that may steer the search for ideas in memory in the direction of ideas that are more likely to receive approval. Our contribution to the literature concerns an investigation of the joint effect of (1) the type of ideas posted by others (i.e., common versus novel ideas) and (2) the ratings of those ideas (i.e., low versus high ratings) on subsequent idea generation performance. We find compelling evidence for an interaction effect between these two factors in four empirical studies. That is, exposure to posted ideas that are “highly‐ratedandnovel” or “poorly‐ratedandcommon” can result in more novel subsequent ideas. Exposure to posted ideas that are “highly‐ratedandcommon” can result in a larger number of subsequent ideas. These findings have implications for product innovation managers who wish to exert more control over the number and type of generated ideas, for example, on online crowdsourcing platforms.
Implementation of remote support services: Pre‐COVID‐19
Authors: Wagner Jordan B. , Tassé Marc J. , Ornan Gili
Published: March 2022

In this national survey of departments of developmental disabilities services across the United States, we attempted to establish the number of the states that made remote support services available as an authorized service in some state Medicaid funded developmental disabilities waiver programs. Remote support services were defined as a service that uses technology to support an individual with developmental disabilities and is provided from a location outside of the person's home. Remote support services involve the use of technology to provide real‐time assistance from a direct support professional from a remote location. We found that 18 of the 49 states (37%) that responded to our telephone survey reported offering some form of remote support services. This survey was conducted pre‐COVID‐19 and the implications of the availability of remote support services are discussed especially in light of COVID‐19.
Neutral and outlier single nucleotide polymorphisms disentangle the evolutionary history of a coastal Solanaceae species
Authors: Guzmán Sebastián , Giudicelli Giovanna C. , Turchetto Caroline , Bombarely Aureliano , Freitas Loreta B.
Published: March 2022

Speciation begins with the isolation of some individuals or subpopulations due to drivers promoting a diverging genetic distribution. Such isolation may occur, followed by different processes and pressures. Isolation‐by‐distance (IBD), isolation‐by‐adaptation (IBA), and isolation‐by‐colonization (IBC) have been recognized as the main divergence patterns. Still, it is not easy to distinguish which one is the main pattern as each one may act at different points in time or even simultaneously. Using an extensive genome coverage from a Petunia species complex with coastal and inland distribution and multiple analytical approaches on population genomics and phylogeography, we showed a complex interplay between neutral and selective forces acting on the divergence process. We found 18,887 SNPs potentially neutral and 924 potentially under selection (outlier) loci. All analyses pointed that each subspecies displays its own genetic component and evolutionary history. We suggested plausible ecological drivers for such divergence in a southernmost South Atlantic coastal plain in Brazil and Uruguay and identified a connection between adaptation and environment heterogeneity.
Microcephaly as a risk factor for dental alterations: A case‐control study
Authors: Gomes Patrícia Nóbrega , Azevedo Isabelita Duarte , do Amaral Beatriz Aguiar , Arrais Nivia Maria Rodrigues , Lima Kenio Costa de
Published: March 2022

Objective

This study aimed to assess whether microcephaly is a risk factor for alterations in the chronology and sequence of tooth eruption and for developmental defects of enamel.

Matherials and Methods

In this case‐control study, 81 children aged 30–36 months, including 40 normoreactive children and 41 with microcephaly, were submitted to oral clinical examination to determine the frequency of alterations in the chronology and sequence of tooth eruption and developmental enamel defects. The sample was matched for sex and age (1:1) and allocated to the case (presence of dental alterations) and control (absence of dental alterations) groups. Gestational age, birthweight and socioeconomic characteristics were also analyzed. Chi‐square test and Fisher's exact test were applied (α = 0.05).

Results

Microcephaly was significantly associated with delayed tooth eruption, alterations in the sequence of tooth eruption, and defects in dental enamel (p < 0.001). Low birthweight also showed a significant association with this alterations (p < 0.005) and prematurity was associated with defects in enamel development (p < 0.005).

Conclusion

Microcephaly is a risk factor for alterations in the tooth eruption process and enamel formation in primary teeth.
An Updated Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials on Total Hip Arthroplasty through SuperPATH versus Conventional Approaches
Authors: Ramadanov Nikolai
Published: March 2022

The object was to conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) up to the present to draw reliable conclusions in the comparison between short‐term outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) through supercapsular percutaneously assisted approach in THA (supercapsular percutaneously‐assisted total hip (SuperPATH)) versus conventional approaches (CAs). A systematic literature search was performed to identify RCTs comparing primary and secondary outcomes of THA through SuperPATH vs. CAs. Mean differences (MDs) were calculated for continuous outcomes and odds ratios (ORs) for dichotomous outcomes, using the DerSimonian and Laird method, the Mantel–Haenszel method and random effects model. A total of 14 RCTs involving 1021 patients met the inclusion criteria. Primary outcomes: SuperPATH reduced intraoperative blood loss (MD = −61.4, 95% CI −119.1 to −3.8). SuperPATH increased Harris hip score (HHS) 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively (MD = 2.4, 95% CI 0.6–4.2; MD = 2.1, 95% CI 0.6–3.6; MD = 0.7, 95% CI 0.1–1.3; resp.). Both approaches did not differ in postoperative complication rates (OR = 0.7, 95% CI 0.2–3.3). Secondary outcomes: SuperPATH reduced pain visual analogue scale (VAS) 1 day and 3 days postoperatively (MD = −1.0, 95% CI −1.8 to −0.2; MD = −1.2, 95% CI −1.8 to −0.5; resp.). SuperPATH reduced incision length (MD = −5.2, 95% CI −7.0 to −3.4). SuperPATH increased operation time (MD = 14.3, 95% CI 3.7–24.8). Both approaches did not differ relevantly in acetabular cup inclination (MD = −1.8, 95% CI −3.8–0.2) and acetabular cup anteversion (MD = −0.6, 95% CI −1.2 to −0.1) angles. The overall findings of this meta‐analysis (Meta‐SuCAs‐2) suggested that the short‐term outcomes of THA through SuperPATH were superior to CAs. In the primary outcome, SuperPATH had a lower intraoperative blood loss and a higher HHS. Both approaches did not differ in postoperative complications. In the secondary outcome, SuperPATH had a lower pain VAS and a shorter incision length. Both approaches showed sufficient results in acetabular cup positioning. CAs had a shorter operation time than SuperPATH.
De novo phasing resolves haplotype sequences in complex plant genomes
Authors: Guk Ji‐Yoon , Jang Min‐Jeong , Choi Jin‐Wook , Lee Yeon Mi , Kim Seungill
Published: March 2022

Genome phasing is a recently developed assembly method that separates heterozygous eukaryotic genomic regions and builds haplotype‐resolved assemblies. Because differences between haplotypes are ignored in most published de novo genomes, assemblies are available as consensus genomes consisting of haplotype mixtures, thus increasing the need for genome phasing. Here, we review the operating principles and characteristics of several freely available and widely used phasing tools (TrioCanu, FALCON‐Phase, and ALLHiC). An examination of downstream analyses using haplotype‐resolved genome assemblies in plants indicated significant differences among haplotypes regarding chromosomal rearrangements, sequence insertions, and expression of specific alleles that contribute to the acquisition of the biological characteristics of plant species. Finally, we suggest directions to solve addressing limitations of current genome‐phasing methods. This review provides insights into the current progress, limitations, and future directions of de novo genome phasing, which will enable researchers to easily access and utilize genome‐phasing in studies involving highly heterozygous complex plant genomes.
Effectiveness of a telephone‐based nursing intervention to reduce hospital utilization by COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Korycinski Samantha , Metcalf David , Keteyian Courtland
Published: March 2022

Objective

Determine the effectiveness of a COVID‐19 remote monitoring and management program in reducing preventable hospital utilization.

Design

A retrospective cohort study utilizing data from electronic health records.

Sample

Two hundred ninety‐three patients who tested positive for COVID‐19 at a drive‐through testing site in Michigan. [Correction added on 11 April 2022, after first online publication: In the preceding sentence, “Two hundred and ninety‐third” has been corrected to “Two hundred ninety‐three” in this version.] The intervention group, consisting of 139 patients, was compared to a control group of 154 patients.

Measurements

The primary outcome was the 30‐day probability of hospital utilization. The covariates included in the analysis were age, gender, tobacco use, body mass index (BMI), race, and ethnicity.

Intervention

A nurse‐led, telephone‐based active management protocol for COVID‐19 patients who were isolating at home.

Results

The intervention group had a non‐statistically significant 42% reduction in risk of hospital utilization within 30 days of a positive COVID‐19 test when compared to the control group (HR = 0.578, p‐value .111, HR 95% CI [0.29, 1.13]).

Conclusions

A nurse‐led remote monitoring and management program for COVID‐19 reduced the probability of 30‐day hospital utilization. Although the findings were not statistically significant, the program yielded practical significance by reducing hospital utilization, in‐person interaction, and the risk of infection for healthcare workers.
Prediction of gestational age based on foetal ultrasonographic biometric measurements in light breed horses
Authors: Renaudin Catherine D. , Kass Philip H. , Bruyas Jean‐Francois
Published: March 2022

A table was generated, based on foetal ultrasonographic measurements in light breed mares, for each day of gestation beginning with day 100, to provide the predicted value of four biometric parameters: biparietal diameter (BPD), eye approximated volume (EyV), foetal aortic diameter (AortD) and femur length (FL). Using this table, day of gestation was successfully predicted in 23 Quarter Horses (QH) with known mating or ovulation dates. BPD, EyV and FL were the best foetal age predictors between 100‐ and 200‐days gestation predicting within 2 weeks of the actual day of gestation, while BPD and EyV were best between 200 and 300 days (within 3 weeks), and EyV was best after 300 days (within 3 weeks).
Pre-service teachers’ perceptions on integrating a social networking site for language learning into English classes
Authors: Mejía Laguna Jorge Andrés , Hernández-Ocampo Sonia Patricia , Álvarez Valencia José Aldemar
Published: March 2022

This paper aims to report on partial findings of a research study that intends to explore how Social Networking Sites for Language Learning (SNSLL) can be integrated into English classes of a BA program in the Teaching of Modern Languages. More specifically, this paper reports on the students' perceptions before and during the implementation of a SNSLL (Busuu). The data was gathered through two collection techniques: surveys and learning logs. Concerning the participants’ perceptions before the use of Busuu, the data analysis shows that, despite some concerns about communicative ability and personal privacy, they perceived this kind of virtual communities as effective platforms to learn EFL through genuine interaction with other users. Although the students’ perceptions during the use of Busuu involved some usability limitations and technical issues, they reiterated the potential of this SNSLL to not only facilitate language learning, but also foster intercultural development and metacognitive processes.
Production Behavior Evaluation on Inclined Well in Commingled Carbonate Gas Reservoir With Multiple Heterogeneous Layers Without Crossflow
Authors: Meng Fankun , Yan Haijun , He Dongbo , Liu Xiaohua , Li Qian , Deng Hui
Published: March 2022

To estimate production behaviors of inclined well in multilayer heterogeneous carbonate gas reservoir, two semi-analytical models for different formation distribution patterns are proposed, which are named as model I and model II. For model I, the inner region of each layer is fractured-vuggy porous medium, while the outer region only contains matrix. For model II, the inner and outer regions are consisted of matrix and fractured-vuggy porous mediums, respectively. To solve the model, Laplace transformation, Fourier transformation and inversion, Duhamel convolution, and Stehfest numerical inverse are applied. The validities of these models are verified through the comparisons with the published datum, which include well bottom-hole pressure (BHP) and gas production rate of individual layer for vertical and inclined wells in multilayer homogenous gas reservoir. Furthermore, by matching the well BHP data collected from a field case, the applicability of model is validated. The influences of prevailing factors, such as the radius ratio between inner and outer regions, horizontal–vertical permeability ratio, and inclination angle, on production behaviors are analyzed. The results show that influenced by the diverse formation distribution patterns, the variation of radius ratio between inner and outer regions has opposite effect on the well BHP for models I and II. Formation anisotropy and inclination angle have minimal effects on the well BHP of model I, but have significant impacts on model II. To keep the well BHP with a relatively high value, for model I and model II, the penetrate inclination angles should be greater than 50 deg and 55 deg, respectively.
Topology Optimization of Graded Truss Lattices Based on On-the-Fly Homogenization
Authors: Telgen Bastian , Sigmund Ole , Kochmann Dennis M.
Published: March 2022

We introduce a computational framework for the topology optimization of cellular structures with spatially varying architecture, which is applied to functionally graded truss lattices under quasistatic loading. We make use of a first-order homogenization approach, which replaces the discrete truss by an effective continuum description to be treated by finite elements in a macroscale boundary value problem. By defining the local truss architecture through a set of Bravais vectors, we formulate the optimization problem with regards to the spatially varying basis vectors and demonstrate its feasibility and performance through a series of benchmark problems in 2D (though the method is sufficiently general to also apply in 3D, as discussed). Both the displacement field and the topology are continuously varying unknown fields on the macroscale, and a regularization is included for well posedness. We argue that prior solutions obtained from aligning trusses along the directions of principal stresses are included as a special case. The outlined approach results in heterogeneous truss architectures with a smoothly varying unit cell, enabling easy fabrication with a tunable length scale (the latter avoiding the ill-posedness stemming from classical nonconvex methods without an intrinsic length scale).
An Arduino Investigation of the Temperature Dependence of the Speed of Sound in Air
Authors: Galeriu Calin
Published: March 2022

The determination of the speed of sound in air is a classical experiment, usually performed with a resonance tube apparatus. The measured value can be checked against Eq. (1), which describes the temperature dependence of the speed of sound in dry air. A modern implementation of this speed of sound investigation uses an Arduino Uno microcontroller board, an HC-SR04 ultrasonic distance sensor, and a DS18B20 temperature sensor. The distance sensor’s transmitter produces a burst of eight ultrasonic rectangular pulses that travel through the air, reflect on an object placed in front at a distance d, and then return to the sensor’s receiver after an echo time t. This Arduino investigation, unfortunately, is harder to perform than one might expect after a first reading of Ref. 1 or 2. In this article we discuss some sources of experimental errors that can complicate this laboratory activity, and we describe some important steps that must be included in the data collection and analysis procedure, in order to obtain successful results every time.
Impetus-Force-Like Drawings May Be Less Common Than You Think
Authors: Robertson Amy D. , Goodhew Lisa M. , Heron Paula R. L. , Scherr Rachel E.
Published: March 2022

Perhaps the most commonly cited student idea about forces in the literature is the notion of an impetus force, defined as the “belief that there is a force inside a moving object that keeps it going and causes it to have some speed,” that can then “fade away as the object moves along.” According to the literature, even after physics instruction students use impetus force reasoning to argue that forces are necessary to sustain motion or that motion implies force. For example, many students drew an upward arrow to indicate a force on a coin that was moving upward after being tossed. The coin was halfway between the point of its release and its turnaround point. Interviews with students in the course indicate that the arrow was meant to indicate “the ‘force of the throw,’ the ‘upward original force,’” and so on. Clement interprets these results to mean that students “believe that continuing motion implies the presence of a continuing force in the same direction, as a necessary cause of the motion.”
Free Software Resources for Teaching AC RC Circuits
Authors: Kouh Minjoon
Published: March 2022

The importance of introducing computational approaches early and actively in science education is widely acknowledged among educators and scientists. Many great ideas have been put forward and implemented by advocates and organizations such as Partnership for Integration of Computation into Undergraduate Physics (https://www.compadre.org/PICUP) and the Science Education Resource Center at Carleton College (https://serc.carleton.edu/teaching_computation/index.html). According to “Phys21: Preparing Physics Students for 21st-Century Careers,” a recent report by the Joint Task Force on Undergraduate Physics Programs, physics students benefit from learning how to represent physics concepts in multiple ways: mathematically, experimentally, and computationally. In his best-selling book on career advice, Cal Newport argues that quickly and effectively learning how to wield difficult tools is a valuable skill for success.
Stochastic model of the human middle ear using a nonparametric probabilistic approach
Authors: Lobato Lucas C. , Paul Stephan , Cordioli Júlio A. , Ritto Thiago G.
Published: March 2022

Several mathematical models of the human middle ear dynamics have been studied since the mid-twentieth century. Despite different methods applied, all of these models are based on deterministic approaches. Experimental data have shown that the middle ear behaves as an uncertain system due to the variability among individuals. In this context, stochastic models are useful because they can represent a population of middle ears with its intrinsic uncertainties. In this work, a nonparametric probabilistic approach is used to model the human middle ear dynamics. The lumped-element method is adopted to develop deterministic baseline models, and three different optimization processes are proposed and applied to the adjustment of the stochastic models. Results show that the stochastic models proposed can reproduce the experimental data in terms of mean and coefficient of variation. In addition, this study shows the importance of properly defining the acceptable range of each input parameter in order to obtain a reliable stochastic model.
Favorable reverberation time in concert halls revisited for piano and violin solos
Authors: Hidaka Takayuki , Nishihara Noriko
Published: March 2022

A favorable reverberation time in concert halls is a fundamental issue for room acoustic design, and various recommendations have been suggested so far. Nevertheless, one must track back more than half a century when it comes to systematic subjective experiments on this topic. In this study, binaural room impulse responses (RIRs) measured with a dodecahedral loudspeaker in concert halls, where orchestra concerts are regularly held, are used. First, signal processing is applied to RIR to equalize the dodecahedral loudspeaker response as flat and broad as possible within the audible frequency range. Then, anechoic recordings of music by piano and violin, excerpts from cadenzas, are convoluted with the equalized RIR. Next, subjective experiments are conducted to seek favorable reverberation times. Reverberance and clarity were judged by 16 music experts. From this research, the favorable reverberation times RTM (octave band average for 500 and 1000 Hz) for piano and violin solos are from 1.2 to 2.0 s and 1.8 to 2.4 s, respectively. However, the clarity index C80,3 (octave band average for 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz) needs to range from 0 to 2.4 dB and −1.6 to 0.7 dB, respectively, to meet the optimum reverberance for piano and violin.
pH regulates potassium conductance and drives a constitutive proton current in human TMEM175
Authors: Zheng Wang , Shen Chen , Wang Longfei , Rawson Shaun , Xie Wen Jun , Nist-Lund Carl , Wu Jason , Shen Zhangfei , Xia Shiyu , Holt Jeffrey R. , Wu Hao , Fu Tian-Min
Published: March 2022

Human TMEM175, a noncanonical potassium (K
+
) channel in endolysosomes, contributes to their pH stability and is implicated in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Structurally, the TMEM175 family exhibits an architecture distinct from canonical potassium channels, as it lacks the typical TVGYG selectivity filter. Here, we show that human TMEM175 not only exhibits pH-dependent structural changes that reduce K
+
permeation at acidic pH but also displays proton permeation. TMEM175 constitutively conducts K
+
at pH 7.4 but displays reduced K
+
permeation at lower pH. In contrast, proton current through TMEM175 increases with decreasing pH because of the increased proton gradient. Molecular dynamics simulation, structure-based mutagenesis, and electrophysiological analysis suggest that K
+
ions and protons share the same permeation pathway. The M393T variant of human TMEM175 associated with PD shows reduced function in both K
+
and proton permeation. Together, our structural and electrophysiological analysis reveals a mechanism of TMEM175 regulation by pH.
Structure and dynamics of Odinarchaeota tubulin and the implications for eukaryotic microtubule evolution
Authors: Akıl Caner , Ali Samson , Tran Linh T. , Gaillard Jérémie , Li Wenfei , Hayashida Kenichi , Hirose Mika , Kato Takayuki , Oshima Atsunori , Fujishima Kosuke , Blanchoin Laurent , Narita Akihiro , Robinson Robert C.
Published: March 2022

Tubulins are critical for the internal organization of eukaryotic cells, and understanding their emergence is an important question in eukaryogenesis. Asgard archaea are the closest known prokaryotic relatives to eukaryotes. Here, we elucidated the apo and nucleotide-bound x-ray structures of an Asgard tubulin from hydrothermal living Odinarchaeota (OdinTubulin). The guanosine 5′-triphosphate (GTP)–bound structure resembles a microtubule protofilament, with GTP bound between subunits, coordinating the “+” end subunit through a network of water molecules and unexpectedly by two cations. A water molecule is located suitable for GTP hydrolysis. Time course crystallography and electron microscopy revealed conformational changes on GTP hydrolysis. OdinTubulin forms tubules at high temperatures, with short curved protofilaments coiling around the tubule circumference, more similar to FtsZ, rather than running parallel to its length, as in microtubules. Thus, OdinTubulin represents an evolutionary stage intermediate between prokaryotic FtsZ and eukaryotic microtubule-forming tubulins.
Photoelectron energy peaks shift against the radiation pressure in strong-field ionization
Authors: Lin Kang , Eckart Sebastian , Hartung Alexander , Trabert Daniel , Fehre Kilian , Rist Jonas , Schmidt Lothar Ph. H. , Schöffler Markus S. , Jahnke Till , Kunitski Maksim , Dörner Reinhard
Published: March 2022

The photoelectric effect describes the ejection of an electron upon absorption of one or several photons. The kinetic energy of this electron is determined by the photon energy reduced by the binding energy of the electron and, if strong laser fields are involved, by the ponderomotive potential in addition. It has therefore been widely taken for granted that for atoms and molecules, the photoelectron energy does not depend on the electron’s emission direction, but theoretical studies have questioned this since 1990. Here, we provide experimental evidence that the energies of photoelectrons emitted against the light propagation direction are shifted toward higher values, while those electrons that are emitted along the light propagation direction are shifted to lower values. We attribute the energy shift to a nondipole contribution to the ponderomotive potential that is due to the interaction of the moving electrons with the incident photons.
Impacts of late Miocene normal faulting on Yarlung Tsangpo River evolution, southeastern Tibet
Authors: Shen Tianyi , Wang Guocan , van der Beek Peter , Bernet Matthias , Chen Yue , Zhang Pan , Wang An , Cao Kai
Published: March 2022

The Jiacha Gorge in southeastern Tibet is the second-largest deeply incised gorge of the Yarlung-Tsangpo River, after the Tsangpo Gorge. A late Cenozoic N-S–trending normal fault, the Woka Rift fault, coincides with the western limit of the gorge. However, the relationship between the formation of the gorge, drainage evolution, and rift activity remains unclear. Analysis of the river long profile suggests that the Jiacha Gorge developed as a ~45-km-wide knickzone, rather than a local knickpoint. Projection of tributary stream profiles indicate significantly deeper incision in the gorge than in the downstream area, suggesting different controls on incision. Thermochronological data collected along two age-elevation profiles in the Woka Rift footwall and the Jiacha Gorge record rapid cooling at ca. 12–10 Ma followed by moderate cooling between ca. 10 and 7 Ma, with additional accelerated cooling after ca. 5 Ma in the gorge. We interpret late Miocene (ca. 12–10 Ma) rapid cooling to reflect the onset of east-west extension and normal faulting along the Woka Rift, whereas the Pliocene (post–ca. 5 Ma) accelerated cooling is inferred to be driven by river incision in the Jiacha Gorge. Geomorphic and sedimentologic observations suggest diversion of the Yarlung-Tsangpo River through the Jiacha Gorge, from an earlier more southerly course, after the onset of rifting. Therefore, we suggest that normal faulting of the Woka Rift anchored the Jiacha Gorge knickzone on its shoulder, while footwall uplift and drainage diversion led to enhanced incision, forming the steepest channel upstream of the Tangpo Gorge along the Yarlung-Tsangpo River.
A composite Llandovery δ13Ccarb record from the Michigan Basin, USA
Authors: Al-Musawi Mohammed , Kaczmarek Stephen E. , Harrison William B. , Voice Peter J. , Kuglitsch Jeffrey J. , Griffith Elizabeth M. , Saltzman Matthew R.
Published: March 2022

A new high-resolution, composite δ13Ccarb curve for the Michigan Basin, USA, was constructed using two stratigraphically overlapping subsurface cores that span the complete Llandovery interval. The Llandovery succession of the Michigan Basin measures between 140 m and 265 m thick and is represented by three lithostratigraphic groups: the Cataract (Manitoulin formation and Cabot Head Shale), the Burnt Bluff (Lime Island, Byron, and Hendricks formations), and the Manistique (Schoolcraft and Cordell formations). The composite δ13Ccarb curve exhibits five positive carbon isotope excursions (CIEs). Conodont and 87Sr/86Sr data suggest that the CIEs correlate with the Hirnantian, Early Aeronian, Late Aeronian, Valgu, and Ireviken global excursions. The new composite δ13Ccarb curve from the Michigan Basin represents the most stratigraphically complete, single-basin Llandovery record worldwide. The composite δ13Ccarb curve permits the ages of three Llandovery lithostratigraphic groups to be chronostratigraphically determined within ca. 1 Ma resolution. The composite δ13Ccarb curve also implies that the Ordovician–Silurian boundary in the Michigan Basin is located at the top of the Manitoulin formation and not at the base of the Manitoulin formation, which is consistent with recent findings from Manitoulin Island, Ontario. From the regional perspective, the high-resolution composite δ13Ccarb curve provides a valuable tool for delineating the depositional history of the Michigan Basin during the Llandovery. From a global perspective, the new composite δ13Ccarb curve sheds light on the dynamics of the global carbon cycle, particularly during the Rhuddanian, which is rarely preserved in other carbonate basins worldwide.
МС2Е: The Meta-Cloud Computing Environment for Interdisciplinary Studies
Authors: Smelyanskii R. L.
Published: March 2022

The Meta-Cloud Computing Environment (MC2E) is a Russian‒Chinese project dedicated to the study of methods and tools for building an information and computing environment for scientific computational experiments and interdisciplinary research, which ended in 2020. Work in this area was focused on the federation principle of organizing computations and data management, providing for the creation of a specialized heterogeneous ecosystem of data centers with virtualized infrastructure and high-performance computers, united by telecommunication resources—a data transmission network. One of the key problems of building such an ecosystem, central to the MC2E project, is the integration of high-performance computers and data processing centers—cloud computing environments based on server clusters. A brief overview of the main results of the project are presented.
Rare Earth Elements in Soils of the Central Forest State Nature Biosphere Reserve
Authors: Antonova S. A. , Ladonin D. V.
Published: March 2022

The total content of rare earth elements (REEs) and the content of their oxalate-soluble fraction were studied in four soil profiles (Gleyic Umbrisols, Albic Gleyic Folic Retisols (Raptic), Dystric Albic Retisol) of the Central Forest Nature Reserve. The REE content was normalized to a local standard (the Russian Platform clay), and the cerium and europium anomalies were quantified [8]. In addition to the initial redistribution of REEs during the formation of rocks, REEs in the studied soils undergo geochemical fractionation, which results in the depletion of soil horizons of heavy lanthanides and europium. The negative europium anomaly is maximal in eluvial horizons and is weaker or absent in organic horizons. The oxalate-soluble REE fraction affects the redistribution of heavy lanthanides and cerium in the studied soils, and also results in the development of a positive cerium anomaly in some horizons.
Determining Sport Concussion Assessment Tool fifth Edition (SCAT5) reliable change in male professional hockey players
Authors: Bruce Jared M , Meeuwisse Willem , Hutchison Michael G , Comper Paul , Echemendia Ruben J
Published: March 2022

Objectives

The purpose of this paper is to provide reliable change metrics and assess the test–retest psychometrics of the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool fifth Edition (SCAT5) in a multilingual sample of professional ice hockey players.

Methods

The SCAT5 was administered to National Hockey League and American Hockey League male professional ice hockey players as part of the 2018 and 2019 season medical evaluations. We extracted data from an existing clinical database of players who were administered two consecutive baseline evaluations and had no intervening concussions to assess psychometric properties (eg, test–retest reliability) and develop reliable change metrics.

Results

Overall, 1007 players met inclusion criteria. Players were reassessed on average 344.52 (±62.52) days following their first baseline. Test–retest reliability ranged from r=0.3 to r=0.5. Reliable change metrics for Immediate Memory varied considerably dependent on form order. Significant differences were found between English versus non-English language preference on Immediate Memory and Concentration but not Delayed Memory or the modified Balance Error Scoring System (mBESS). Reliable change indices at the 90% CI were: Symptom Severity (5), Total Symptoms (3), Immediate Memory (3-8), Concentration (2), mBESS (5) and Delayed Memory (2-4).

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the importance of considering form differences and language preference when determining reliable change from baseline on the SCAT5 in male professional hockey players. The relatively modest test–retest reliability of the measures leaves room for improved psychometric properties and increased sensitivity to concussion in future iterations of the SCAT.
Association between resident status and patients’ experiences of primary care: a cross-sectional study in the Greater Bay Area, China
Authors: Wu JingLan , Liu RuQing , Shi Leiyu , Zheng Lingling , He Ning , Hu Ruwei
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Patients’ experiences are important part of health services quality research, but it’s still unclear whether patients’ experiences are influenced by resident status. This study aimed to evaluate the association between resident status and patients’ primary care experiences with the focus on migrants vs local residents.

Design

A cross-sectional study using multistage cluster random sampling was conducted from September to November 2019. The data were analysed using general linear models.

Setting

Six community health centres in Guangzhou, China.

Participants

1568 patients aged 20 years or older.

Main outcome measures

Patients’ primary care experiences were assessed using the Primary Care Assessment Tool. The 10 domains included in Primary Care Assessment Tool (PCAT) refers to first contact-utilisation, first contact-access, ongoing care, coordination (referral), coordination (information), comprehensiveness (services available), comprehensiveness (services provided), family-centredness, community orientation and cultural competence from patient’s perspective.

Results

1568 questionnaires were analysed. After adjusting for age, sex, education, annual family income, self-perceived health status, chronic condition, annual medical expenditure and medical insurance, the PCAT total scores of the migrants were significantly lower than those of local residents (β=−0.128; 95% CI −0.218 to −0.037). Migrants had significantly lower scores than local residents in first contact utilisation (β=−0.245; 95% CI −0.341 to −0.148), ongoing care (β=−0.175; 95% CI −0.292 to −0.059), family-centredness (β=−0.112; 95% CI −0.225 to 0.001), community orientation (β=−0.176; 95% CI −0.286 to −0.066) and cultural competence (β=−0.270; 95% CI −0.383 to −0.156), respectively.

Conclusion

Primary care experiences of migrants were significantly worse off than those of local residents, especially in terms of primary care utilisation, continuity and cultural competence. Given the wide disparity in primary care experiences between migrants and local residents, Chinese healthcare system reform should focus on improving quality of primary care services for migrants, overcoming language barriers and creating patient-centred primary care services.
Paediatric injury in Beirut: a multicentre retrospective chart review study
Authors: Al-Hajj Samar , Ariss Abdel-Badih , Bachir Rana , Helou Mariana , Zaghrini Elie , Fatouh Fathalla , Rahme Rachid , El Sayed Mazen J
Published: March 2022

Objective

This study aims to assess the epidemiology of paediatric injury in Beirut, giving insights into their characteristics, contributing risk factors and outcomes.

Design and setting

A retrospective study was conducted to review medical charts for children aged 0–15 years presented to five hospital emergency departments (ED) located in Beirut over a 1-year period (June 2017–May 2018).

Participants

A total of 1142 trauma-related visits for children under 15 years of age were included. A descriptive analysis and a bivariate analysis were performed to investigate admitted and treated/discharged patients.

Primary outcome

A logistic regression was conducted to identify factors associated with hospital admission among injured children.

Results

A total of 1142 cases of paediatric injury ED cases were sampled, mean age was 7.7±4.35 years. Children aged 0–5 years accounted for more than one-third of the total cases, 40.0% (206/516) of the fall injuries and 60.1% (220/366) of home injuries. The leading cause of paediatric injury was fall (45.2%), nearly 4.1% of the cases were admitted to hospitals. Factors associated with admission included injury to abdomen (OR=8.25 (CI 1.11 to 61.24)), to upper extremity (OR=5.79 (CI 2.04 to 16.49)), to lower extremity (OR=5.55 (95% CI 2.02 to 15.20) and other insurance type (OR=8.33 (CI 2.19 to 31.67)). The three types of injuries mostly associated with hospital admission were fracture (OR=13.55 (CI 4.77 to 38.44)), concussion (OR=13.60 (CI 2.83 to 65.41)) and organ system injury (OR=31.63 (CI 3.45 to 290.11)).

Conclusions

Injury remains a major health problem among the paediatric population in Lebanon. Parental child safety educational programmes and age-targeted injury prevention strategies should be initiated and implemented to mitigate the burden of child injuries and improve child safety and well-being.