bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavioral responses of bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) to acoustic stimuli in a laboratory setting
Authors: McGee JoAnn , Feist Christopher , Milliren Christopher , Arent Lori , Ponder Julia B. , Nelson Peggy , Walsh Edward J.
Published: April 2023

In our previous work, auditory function and vocalization acoustics were studied in a cohort of adult and juvenile bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) to guide the development of acoustic deterrence technologies intended to discourage encroachment into wind energy airspaces. Findings from those studies set the stage for an investigation designed to evaluate the efficacy of sound stimuli to elicit behavioral responses from eagles in a laboratory setting. To achieve this goal, a handler positioned individual eagles on a perch in the center of an acoustically damped room equipped with two stationary speakers and a video camera. Stimulus presentation was controlled remotely from outside the study space and initiated after the subject acclimated to the space and remained stationary. Both natural and synthetic stimuli were delivered randomly to one of the speakers. Several volunteers were recruited to assess stimulus-driven behavioral responses from recorded videos. We will report on results of behavioral responses for each stimulus type, as well as habituation to stimuli. Early results are promising and set the stage for exportation of behavioral studies into a more natural environment to evaluate the effects of acoustic stimuli on bald eagles during creance training flights. [Work supported by DOE-EERE (#DE-EE0007881) and LCCMR (#2021-294).]
Modeling and interpreting the head-related transfer function to understand directional hearing in bottlenose dolphins
Authors: Cheong Yeon Joon , Lee Wu-Jung , Ruesch Alexander , Schalles Matt , Kainerstorfer Jana , Shinn-Cunningham Barbara
Published: April 2023

Toothed whales have evolved to communicate, forage, and navigate effectively underwater using sound. It is generally accepted that toothed whales receive sounds through their lower mandible and the associated fat body, which guide sound to the tympano-periotic complexes (TPCs) enclosing the cochleae. However, little is known about how the direction of an impinging sound wave affects acoustic interactions with these and other structures in the head to alter the signals driving the left and right TPCs. In this work, we constructed a three-dimensional head model using computed tomography (CT) images of a live bottlenose dolphin. Using a finite-element model to simulate sound-structure interactions, we computed how left and right TPC signals vary with sound direction for multiple frequencies to generate dolphin head-related transfer functions (HRTFs). The simulated HRTFs vary strongly with frequency. Importantly, HRTFs for sources off midline exhibit complex frequency-dependent differences, which are acoustic features that could be used to estimate sound source location. We also observed scenarios where interaural level differences (ILDs) may not be reliable directional cues. Results like these can identify which acoustic cues, at which frequencies, support robust directional hearing in toothed whales. [Work supported by ONR.]
Investigating pulmonary edema in rat lungs using separation of multiple scattering and single scattering contribution
Authors: Roshankhah Roshan , Blackwell John , Yuan Hong , Egan Thomas M. , Muller Marie
Published: April 2023

Lung ultrasound imaging is challenging due to multiple scattering (MS) from alveoli. Conventional B-mode does not provide lung microstructure images. However, MS signals can provide valuable information about structure and alveolar distribution and investigating conditions such as pulmonary edema. Lung edema results in fluid buildup in interstitial spaces and alveoli, affecting density of alveoli. Previously, we demonstrated that changes in the distribution of scatterers due to edema result in changes in the wave diffusion regime and the scattering mean free path was sensitive to lung injury due to induced edema in rodents. In the present study, we introduce a novel way of quantifying MS in lungs by isolating the single scattering (SS) and MS contributions and processing them separately. After inducing different severity of edema using ischemia reperfusion injury in 18 rats, full synthetic aperture transmit sequences were used to acquire backscattered signals. The SS/MS contributions were separated using singular value decomposition. The separated SS/MS intensities were calculated and a new parameter defined as the rate of decay in intensity with depth. To assess edema severity and method validation, ex vivo CT lung images were assigned scores compared with this novel biomarker (R = 0.47, p = 0.021). Lung wet/dry ratio was also compared (R = 0.52, p = 0.009).
Synthetic lung ultrasound data generation using autoencoder with generative adversarial network
Authors: Fatima Noreen , Inchingolo Riccardo , Smargiassi Andrea , Soldati Gino , Torri Elena , Perrone Tiziano , Demi Libertario
Published: April 2023

The goal of this study is to test the applicability of a generative adversarial network (GAN) to solve the class unbalancing problem in lung ultrasound (LUS) data. We introduce a supervised autoencoder with conditional latent space. During training, the generator utilizes the weights of the decoder and conditional latent space to generate synthetic LUS images, whereas the discriminator utilizes the weights of the encoder together with the class labels, which also allows classifying each synthetic image into the different classes. A customized gradient penalty loss function was utilised. This approach is tested on a dataset costing of 6500 LUS images, collected from 35 COVID-19 patients and labelled according to a validated 4 level scoring system [10.1109/TMI.2020.2994459]. 1000 synthetic images were generated to balance this dataset. The quality of the synthetic images was evaluated through similarity measures, computed with respect to training and unseen data. Moreover, the synthetic images were also evaluated by expert clinicians concerting their capability to mimic a realistic LUS image. In conclusion, the proposed approach appears to be capable to solve the class unbalancing problem by generating LUS images carrying novel information content, comparable to that of real data from new patients.
The vulnerable air-tissue interface: Summary of ultrasound related bioeffects on lung and their implications for the use of different imaging modes and applications beyond
Authors: Wolfram Frank
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Lung tissue is sensitive to mechanical stress. Animal studies showed induction of pulmonary capillary hemorrhage (PCH) in lung in the diagnostic regime at intensities. Therefore, this work summarizes novel findings regarding the interaction of ultrasound at the alveolar epithelium-gas interface. Method: Literature research related to ultrasound bio-effects on lung was carried out. Furthermore, recent studies reporting thresholds of PCH induction depending on imaging mode and duration will be discussed. Results: Ventilated lung tissue is more vulnerable to mechanical forces than solid tissue. From peak negative pressure below 1.5 MPa the likelihood of PCH induction increases with exposure time. Such PCH is asymptomatic but can falsify the diagnostic outcome. The causes remain still unknown but is not related to cavitation or thermal effects. The extent of PCH in lung is depending of physiological beside acoustic parameters. The extend of PCH is, therefore, not entirely predictable. In addition, observational studies on humans could not confirm the findings as investigated on pathological level on animal models. Conclusion: The vulnerability of lung should become aware in the lung ultrasound community. Current recommendations for output limitations given by AIUM and EFSUMB should be followed and only increased for diagnostics needs.
Mentoring through an inclusive lens
Authors: Porter Tyrone M.
Published: April 2023

There is a great deal of building equitable and inclusive teams in STEM professions, but there are limited resources on how to achieve this goal. Today I will share on my mentoring philosophy and my efforts to lead a research team that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Fast and accurate modeling of parametric array loudspeakers in the frequency domain
Authors: Zhong Jiaxin , Jing Yun
Published: April 2023

The parametric array loudspeaker (PAL) is known for its ability to generate highly directional audio beams. It has been widely used in a variety of audio applications, such as the sound field reproduction and active noise control. Fast and accurate computations of the audio sound field generated by a PAL are challenging due to the complexity of nonlinear interactions between airborne ultrasonic waves. This paper presents an overview of the commonly used computational methods in the frequency domain under the quasilinear assumption, which include the direct integration method, convolution directivity model, Gaussian beam expansions, cylindrical expansions, spherical expansions, and finite element methods. The computational efficiency and the accuracy of these methods in the near field, Westervelt far field, and the inverse-law far field are compared. Future challenges and perspectives are discussed.
Coupled simulation of vibration and sound field of Stradivari violin
Authors: Yokoyama Masao , Takei Amane , Shioya Ryuji , Yagawa Genki
Published: April 2023

The aim of this study is to clarify the relationship between the vibration of violins made by Antonio Stradivari and the acoustic radiation around it. The highly precise geometry of the violin was determined with a micro-computed tomography scanner, and the material properties of the violin body (spruce and maple) were set as the orthotropic properties in the numerical simulation. Then, the numerical simulations coupling the vibrations by a forced oscillation on a bridge with the acoustic field pressure around the violin were performed. Furthermore, the sound pressure emanating in a huge rectangular box was successfully calculated by large scale computing and the open-source parallel acoustic analysis software.
Understanding contact acoustic nonlinearity through coupled synchrotron x-ray imaging and dynamic acoustoelastic measurements under stress
Authors: Ke Chun-Yu , Borate Prabhav , Wood Clay , Rivers Mark , Riviere Jacques , Shokouhi Parisa
Published: April 2023

Dynamic acoustoelastic testing (DAET) is a vibro-acoustic technique, which has been used to measure acoustic nonlinearity in disparate solid media. DAET is a pump-probe approach, where the strain pump-induced changes in the elastic properties of the medium are monitored by a pair of ultrasonic probes at frequencies much higher than that of the strain pump. In a fractured/cracked medium, the measured changes in the elastic properties are attributed to fracture breathing (opening/closing) or shearing caused by the low-frequency pumping. In a set of unprecedent experiments, we use time-lapse synchrotron x-ray imaging in tandem with quasi-static loading/unloading and DAET to visualize the fast dynamics mechanisms in four different materials systems under various stress levels. These include two samples with localized CAN: fractured Westerly granite and Berea sandstone and two samples of granular media with distributed CAN: glass beads and sand. The synchrotron x-ray images are analyzed to obtain true contact areas and changing strain fields under stress. The ultrasonic signals are analyzed in relation to the changes in contact areas during both the quasi-static and dynamic loading to examine the state-of-the-art understanding of ultrasonic transmission in fractured media as well as acoustoelasticity and dynamic acoustoelasticity.
Development of speech perception in noise: Neural correlates of stream segregation in children and adolescents
Authors: Calcus Axelle , Benocci Elena
Published: April 2023

In noisy backgrounds, listeners perform the auditory scene analysis: they parse the different auditory streams (“stream segregation”), and selectively focus on one stream as it unfolds over time (“selective attention”). Auditory scene analysis is thought to mature slowly. Here, we sought to investigate developmental changes in the neural signature of auditory stream segregation. Children (n = 17, aged 8 to 17) and young adults (n = 10) were presented with sequences of sounds consisting in stochastic variations of figures and backgrounds. These figure-ground sequences have been shown to elicit distinct “signature” EEG responses, including the object-related negativity (ORN) and P400, which reflect the processing concurrent auditory objects. Participants were also presented with a consonant identification task, where the consonant was presented in quiet, in the presence of one interfering talker, and in the presence of speech-shaped-noise. Preliminary results indicate a developmental effect on figure-ground segregation. Interestingly, we observe a significant correlation (r = 0.45) between stream segregation and speech perception in noise. However, we do not observe a developmental effect on the ORN/P400. Results will be discussed in light with the literature on the topic of auditory scene analysis and the development of the central auditory pathways.
Trends in the 40 + -year development of advanced structural acoustic and vibration computational modeling
Authors: Koch Robert M.
Published: April 2023

Over the course of the past 40-45 years of computational modeling in the fields of structures, structural acoustics, and vibrations, there have been extreme advancements made in numerous areas that have greatly increased and improved the size, accuracy, efficiency, and complexity of numerical solutions possible. Most of this progress has been made through a combination of improvements in the distinct areas of computer processing approaches/speed and available memory, primarily evolutionary enhancements in detailed numerical material and continuum mechanics models, development of entirely new physics-based numerical vibroacoustic modeling approaches, etc. This paper presents a historical review of the detailed progress made in computational structural acoustics and vibration from the “early days” in the 1980s through current state-of-the-art advanced numerical approaches, much of which would not have been dreamed possible back four decades ago! While most of the examples utilized in this talk are pulled from the speaker’s specific technical area of undersea vehicle/ system structural acoustics, the overall trends presented are certainly represented across the broad spectrum of vibro-acoustics modeling applications.
My journey in structural acoustics
Authors: Feit David
Published: April 2023

Structural acoustics refers to problems of the vibrational response of structures in the presence of an ambient compressible fluid. In this presentation, I present my introduction to the subject by virtue of my interaction with Miguel Junger, one of the pioneering investigators in this field. At his suggestion and with his insight, I addressed two canonical problems that launched my journey into the subject. The first is that of a spherical object spring mounted, moving axially, and radiating into a compressible fluid medium. The other is that of a force excited elastic plate radiating into a fluid half space. Because of their simplicity both problems can be solved exactly, and their solution provides physical insight into the solution of more practical configurations, which were pursued further and included collaboration with Carderock colleagues Gideon Maidanik and Murray Strasberg.
Using acoustic signals for demonstrating key signal processing and communication systems concepts
Authors: Sen Gupta Ananya
Published: April 2023

In this talk, I will highlight the importance of reinforcing mathematical concepts in signal processing and communication systems theory with Matlab-based data analysis. In particular, I will provide examples and demos of homework and project problems I assigned in my linear systems and communication systems courses, and discuss how it helped the students learn in an agile hybrid virtual setting during the pandemic, and whether repeating the same (or similar) problems in an in-person or hybrid setting made a difference. I will also discuss the importance of playing with real-world acoustic signals, and lessons learned, including changes I made in the problem assignments based on student feedback, student performance, and classroom discussions.
Interactive demonstrations in acoustic signal processing using Jupyter notebooks
Authors: Ali Randall , van Waterschoot Toon
Published: April 2023

In studying acoustic signal processing, students are faced with seemingly abstract concepts such as continuous-time and discrete-time representations, time-frequency transformations, convolution, vector and inner product spaces, orthogonality, and optimal and adaptive filtering. While mathematical development of the theory and illustration through simple examples during teaching can help shed light on some of these concepts, they are not always sufficient for students to achieve a full level of understanding. As a means to improve this situation, we have consequently developed several interactive demonstrations in acoustic signal processing, covering a range of topics, from the fundamentals of sampling and quantisation to the more advanced optimal and adaptive filtering. These demonstrations have been made with Jupyter notebooks and offer several advantages. Apart from being open source, students immediately get to work with realistic data as they can generate and record acoustic signals using their computer’s loudspeaker and microphone. Using the live coding aspect of the notebooks, they can also quickly process, visualise, and listen to the results from the processing of these acoustic signals, as well as repeat this workflow for various parameter sweeps. We will present some of these demonstrations and show how they can serve as an effective teaching aid.
Out-of-plane arrivals recorded by surface drifters during the Northern Ocean Rapid Surface Evolution experiment
Authors: Ballard Megan , Sagers Jason D. , Poulain Pierre-Marie , MacKinnon Jennifer , Lucas Andrew J. , Sanchez-Rios Alejandra
Published: April 2023

The Northern Ocean Rapid Surface Evolution (NORSE) focuses on characterizing the key physical processes that govern the predictability of upper-ocean rapid evolution events. The principal experimental site is Jan Mayen Channel, which connects the Greenland and Norwegian Seas. During the fall 2022 process cruise, signals from a moored source transmitting a 135-second-long LFM upsweep in the 500–1500 Hz band every four hours were recorded by three SVP Drifters equipped with hydrophone arrays. Over a three-day period, the drifters moved north across Jan Mayen Channel toward the moored source. The individual recordings are subject to variable levels of ambient sound caused by changing wind conditions and platform noise. In recordings with positive SNR, an in-plane arrival is observed. In a subset of these recordings, a second arrival is observed having travel time consistent with a propagation path from the moored source, reflecting off the ridge on the south side of the channel, and arriving at the drifters. A third arrival is also observed having travel time consistent with reflection from face of the bathymetric rise on the east end of the channel which forms Jan Mayen Island. This talk will present the measurements and explain the data though forward modeling. [Work supported by ONR.]
3D finite element modeling techniques and application to underwater target scattering
Authors: Gunderson Aaron M.
Published: April 2023

Underwater acoustic target scattering measurements rely on high fidelity modeling for experimental comparison and understanding. Three-dimensional (3D) finite element models are well suited for this purpose, as they can account for arbitrary or unknown target properties and configurations/orientations within complex and asymmetrical seafloor environments. High acoustic frequencies and large physical distances associated with in situ scattering measurements pose challenges to 3D modeling efforts in terms of model sizes and runtimes. Certain model considerations must be made to keep the 3D model computationally efficient, yet accurate in predictive capability. Numerically determined Green’s functions are demonstrated to permit 3D model reduction, while still preserving far-field scattering prediction capability through the Helmholtz-Kirchhoff integral. By determining Green’s functions within the model, they need not be known or estimated for complex ocean environments a priori. Nontraditional scattering formulations and a survey of boundary truncation methods also are explored and implemented for maximal accuracy within small 3D computational domains. Model results for canonical elastic targets within varying seafloor environments are shown and compared to theory and experimentation. [This work has been supported by the Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program, and by the Office of Naval Research, Ocean Acoustics.]
Mechanized acoustic panels for variable reverb control
Authors: Nallanthighall Arya , Lu Austin , Sarkar Kanad , Mittal Manan , Singer Andrew C.
Published: April 2023

Reverberation poses a challenge for speech processing systems and is unavoidable in real environments. As such, acoustic signal processing researchers are interested in robust algorithms that can perform well regardless of reverb severity. Measuring reverberant speech requires access to rooms with the desired dimensions, which may not be readily available. Furthermore, for heavily instrumented recording setups such as our Mechatronic Acoustic Research System (MARS), moving equipment between locations is not practical. We propose a system of actuated multi-textured panels which can significantly alter the reverb properties of a static room. By changing the angle of these panels, we can smoothly transition from high to low reverberation times. We show this empirically and develop a system that provides a requested reverb level automatically, once configured for a fixed size installation. This tool can allow researchers to use a single room to take measurements applicable to a more diverse range of environments. We integrate our system into the MARS project, an automated tool for generating spatial audio datasets.
Developing a virtual reality application for cultural heritage and room acoustics education
Authors: Park Sang Bum
Published: April 2023

We tend to use visual factors, such as architectural styles, features, specific decorations, and historical contexts, to characterize cultural heritage. Sound is a transient, ethereal phenomenon that tends to be neglected in historical records. While photographs and drawings can preserve the visual aspect of a building or scene, documenting the sonic impact of the spaces is more complicated. Particularly, the historic places used for sonic activities, such as music halls, performance halls, and worship spaces, are essential to document and preserve the acoustic qualities. An immersive experience using virtual reality (VR) technology effectively promotes public awareness about cultural heritage's importance. It simulates the room acoustics using spatial audio technology. It also can make the VR environment interactive to manipulate architectural features that change the room acoustics such as room volume, finish materials, reverberation time, and sound barrier. The main goal of this paper is to develop a VR application that can be used as a template to create a VR environment where 3rd to 8th-grade students navigate and learn about the history and architectural features of cultural heritage and the basics of room acoustics using a Quest headset.
Musical instruments as platforms for open sound design
Authors: Osborn Owen , Kucinski Chris
Published: April 2023

The combination of open-source audio software and the miniaturization of computing hardware has led to new customizable musical instruments. Artists and sound designers can alter the musical behavior and sound character of such instruments themselves. This opens new opportunities for users to explore sound and fosters community collaboration. We will discuss the design of such instruments and introduce the Organelle, an instrument designed to run software that users can create using popular open-source music environments like Pure Data and Faust.
Testing the Effects of a Multicomponent Frailty Management Program for Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Singapore: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Xu Tianma , Yeh Ting-Ting , Ng Kidman Yi Jer , Wong Nicole Wen Ru , Koh Verna Sock Juen
Published: April 2023

Frailty in later life is often associated with functional declines and reduced quality of life. A multicomponent frailty management program (mFMP) is lacking in Singapore. This study aimed to determine the feasibility and effects of an mFMP in reducing frailty and increasing participation among frail community-living older adults. Pre- and postassessments at three time points were conducted to compare the differences in body functions between the mFMP (experimental group [EG]) and a fitness program (control group [CG]). Recruitment, dropouts, and fall data were collected. Weekly field notes and semistructured interviews postintervention were thematically analyzed. Sixteen out of 23 participants (EG: eight; CG: eight) completed the 12-week interventions with reduced frailty immediately postintervention. At 3-month postintervention, 10 participants (EG: five; CG: five) being followed up had a sustained level of frailty (p < .05). The EG and CG reported zero and two falls, respectively. The mFMP demonstrated its feasibility and exhibited a trend to facilitate personal behavioral changes postintervention.
Modern water at low latitudes on Mars: Potential evidence from dune surfaces
Authors: Qin Xiaoguang , Ren Xin , Wang Xu , Liu Jianjun , Wu Haibin , Zeng Xingguo , Sun Yong , Chen Zhaopeng , Zhang Shihao , Zhang Yizhong , Chen Wangli , Liu Bin , Liu Dawei , Guo Lin , Li Kangkang , Zeng Xiangzhao , Huang Hai , Zhang Qing , Yu Songzheng , Li Chunlai , Guo Zhengtang
Published: April 2023

Landforms on the Martian surface are critical to understanding the nature of surface processes in the recent past. However, modern hydroclimatic conditions on Mars remain enigmatic, as explanations for the formation of observed landforms are ambiguous. We report crusts, cracks, aggregates, and bright polygonal ridges on the surfaces of hydrated salt-rich dunes of southern Utopia Planitia (~25°N) from in situ exploration by the Zhurong rover. These surface features were inferred to form after 1.4 to 0.4 million years ago. Wind and CO
2
frost processes can be ruled out as potential mechanisms. Instead, involvement of saline water from thawed frost/snow is the most likely cause. This discovery sheds light on more humid conditions of the modern Martian climate and provides critical clues to future exploration missions searching for signs of extant life, particularly at low latitudes with comparatively warmer, more amenable surface temperatures.
TWIST2-mediated chromatin remodeling promotes fusion-negative rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Shah Akansha M. , Guo Lei , Morales Maria Gabriela , Jaichander Priscilla , Chen Kenian , Huang Huocong , Cano Hernandez Karla , Xu Lin , Bassel-Duby Rhonda , Olson Eric N. , Liu Ning
Published: April 2023

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a common soft tissue sarcoma in children that resembles developing skeletal muscle. Unlike normal muscle cells, RMS cells fail to differentiate despite expression of the myogenic determination protein MYOD. The TWIST2 transcription factor is frequently overexpressed in fusion-negative RMS (FN-RMS). TWIST2 blocks differentiation by inhibiting MYOD activity in myoblasts, but its role in FN-RMS pathogenesis is incompletely understood. Here, we show that knockdown of TWIST2 enables FN-RMS cells to exit the cell cycle and undergo terminal myogenesis. TWIST2 knockdown also substantially reduces tumor growth in a mouse xenograft model of FN-RMS. Mechanistically, TWIST2 controls H3K27 acetylation at distal enhancers by interacting with the chromatin remodelers SMARCA4 and CHD3 to activate growth-related target genes and repress myogenesis-related target genes. These findings provide insights into the role of TWIST2 in maintaining an undifferentiated and tumorigenic state of FN-RMS and highlight the potential of suppressing TWIST2-regulated pathways to treat FN-RMS.
Intrinsic B cell TLR-BCR linked coengagement induces class-switched, hypermutated, neutralizing antibody responses in absence of T cells
Authors: Rivera Carlos E. , Zhou Yulai , Chupp Daniel P. , Yan Hui , Fisher Amanda D. , Simon Raphael , Zan Hong , Xu Zhenming , Casali Paolo
Published: April 2023

Maturation of antibody responses entails somatic hypermutation (SHM), class-switch DNA recombination (CSR), plasma cell differentiation, and generation of memory B cells, and it is thought to require T cell help. We showed that B cell Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)–B cell receptor (BCR) (receptor for antigen) coengagement by 4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenyl acetyl (NP)–lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (
Escherichia coli
lipid A polysaccharide O-antigen) or TLR5-BCR coengagement by
Salmonella
flagellin induces mature antibody responses to NP and flagellin in
Tcr
β

−/−
Tcr

δ

−/−

and NSG/B mice. TLR-BCR coengagement required linkage of TLR and BCR ligands, “linked coengagement.” This induced B cell CSR/SHM, germinal center–like differentiation, clonal expansion, intraconal diversification, plasma cell differentiation, and an anamnestic antibody response. In
Tcr
β

−/−
Tcr

δ

−/−

mice, linked coengagement of TLR4-BCR by LPS or TLR5-BCR by flagellin induced protective antibodies against
E. coli
or
Salmonella
Typhimurium. Our findings unveiled a critical role of B cell TLRs in inducing neutralizing antibody responses, including those to microbial pathogens, without T cell help.
Genetic circuitry boosts cell longevity
Authors: Salis Howard M.
Published: April 2023

Reprogramming cellular dynamics is used to study and delay the onset of aging in yeast
In Science Journals
Authors: Furlong Kevin , Hurtley Stella M. , Szuromi Phil , Jiang Di , Smith Keith T. , Hallberg Dorothy L. , Ray L. Bryan , Olingy Claire , Lavine Marc S. , Ferrarelli Leslie K. , Suleymanov Yury
Published: April 2023

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
The Intersection of Innate Immune Pathways with the Latent Herpes Simplex Virus Genome
Authors: Cuddy Sean R. , Cliffe Anna R.
Published: April 2023

Innate immune responses can impact different stages of viral life cycles. Herpes simplex virus latent infection of neurons and subsequent reactivation provide a unique context for immune responses to intersect with different stages of infection.
A Sporulation-Independent Way of Life for Bacillus thuringiensis in the Late Stages of an Infection
Authors: Toukabri Hasna , Lereclus Didier , Slamti Leyla
Published: April 2023

Bacillus thuringiensis
is an entomopathogenic bacterium widely used as a biopesticide. It belongs to the
Bacillus cereus
group, comprising the foodborne pathogen
B. cereus sensu stricto
and the anthrax agent
Bacillus anthracis
.
Bacterial Argonaute Proteins Aid Cell Division in the Presence of Topoisomerase Inhibitors in Escherichia coli
Authors: Olina Anna , Agapov Aleksei , Yudin Denis , Sutormin Dmitry , Galivondzhyan Alina , Kuzmenko Anton , Severinov Konstantin , Aravin Alexei A. , Kulbachinskiy Andrey
Published: April 2023

Prokaryotic Argonautes (pAgos) are programmable nucleases with incompletely understood functions
in vivo
. In contrast to eukaryotic Argonautes, most studied pAgos recognize DNA targets.
Obtaining Methanol from CO2 on Cu–Zn/Al2O3 and Cu–Zn/SiO2 Catalysts: Effect of the Support and Conditions of the Reaction
Authors: Kim K. O. , Shesterkina A. A. , Tedeeva M. A. , Kartavova K. E. , Pribytkov P. V. , Dunaev S. F. , Kustov A. L.
Published: April 2023

A study is performed of the catalytic properties of Cu–Zn catalysts on Al2O3 and SiO2 supports (Acros) in the reaction of CO2 hydrogenation to obtain methanol. A sample of 30Cu15Zn/Al2O3 displays great selectivity toward methanol. A sample of 30Cu15Zn/SiO2 has the highest methanol performance. The methanol performance of a sample of 10Cu5Zn/Al2O3 is doubled when the pressure is raised from 10 to 30 atm, and a 94% increase in selectivity is observed. A sample of catalyst 10Cu5Zn/SiO2 does not lose its activity after 10 h of a catalytic reaction, and its methanol performance grows with repeated use.
Differences in chronic pain prevalence between men and women at mid-life: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Borra Catherine , Hardy Rebecca
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Epidemiological literature shows differences in chronic pain (CP) prevalence in men and women. Women are more likely to develop CP at different points of the life course, such as adolescence and old age. Less is known about the prevalence of CP by sex and the difference in prevalence during mid-life, when changes may predispose to an earlier differentiation in CP distribution. The aim of this study is to describe the difference in prevalence of CP at mid-life (ages 40–60) in men and women in the general population.

Methods and analysis

This systematic review follows Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Appropriate studies will be identified in the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED and PsycINFO. Two reviewers will independently screen each title and abstract. Studies eligible for data extraction will report estimates of CP prevalence for each sex, and/or a measure of the difference in prevalence between sexes. The findings will be reported in a narrative synthesis following the Social Research Council Methods Programme guidelines. A random effects meta-analysis will be conducted where the reviewers can justify combining results.

Ethics and dissemination

This review will summarise the prevalence of CP in men and women at mid-life, based on existing evidence. It is expected that the results will identify gaps in knowledge and areas for further research. The review will be submitted for publication in topic specific journals and disseminated to professional networks. Individual patient data are not included, so ethical approval is not required.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021295895.
Strategies used in managing conversations about prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing among family physicians (FPs): a qualitative study
Authors: Driedger S Michelle , Kirby Sarah , Maier Ryan , Süss Roger , Thorlacius Laurel , Saranchuk Jeffery W , Bohm Eric , Singer Alexander
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Screening for prostate cancer in healthy asymptomatic men using the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is controversial due to conflicting recommendations from and a lack of strong evidence regarding the benefit of population-based screening. In Canada and internationally, there is variability in how family physicians (FPs) approach PSA testing in asymptomatic men. The purpose of our study was to explore how family FPs approach discussions with their male patients around PSA testing in Manitoba, Canada.

Design

Qualitative descriptive study.

Setting and participants

High-ordering and median-ordering FPs were invited to participate in an interview. In addition to exploring practice behaviours around PSA testing, participants were asked to elaborate on their typical discussion with asymptomatic men who request a PSA test or other tests and procedures that they do not feel are clinically warranted. Data were analysed inductively using a constant-comparison approach.

Results

There were important variations between high-ordering and median-ordering FP’s approaches to discussing PSA testing. Strategies to facilitate conversations were more frequently identified by median-ordering physicians and often included methods to facilitate assessing their patient’s understanding and values. In addition to decision aids, median-ordering FPs used motivational interviewing to tailor a discussion, organised their practice structure and workflow habits in a way that enhanced patient–provider discussions and leveraged ‘new’ evidence and other aids to guide conversations with men.

Conclusion

We found that high-ordering FPs tended to use the PSA test for screening asymptomatic men with limited shared decision-making. Median-ordering FPs used conversational strategies that emphasised uncertainty of benefit and potential risk and did not present the test as a recommendation.
Oral health promotion in acute hospital setting: a quality improvement programme
Authors: Antonacci Grazia , Ahmed Laraib , Lennox Laura , Rigby Samuel , Coronini-Cronberg Sophie
Published: April 2023

Tooth extraction is the most common hospital procedure for children aged 6–10 years in England. Tooth decay is almost entirely preventable and is inequitably distributed across the population: it can cause pain, infection, school absences and undermine overall health status.

An oral health programme (OHP) was delivered in a hospital setting, comprising: (1) health promotion activities; (2) targeted supervised toothbrushing (STB) and (3) staff training. Outcomes were measured using three key performance indicators (KPI1: percentage of children/families seeing promotional material; KPI2: number of children receiving STB; KPI3: number of staff trained) and relevant qualitative indicators. Data were collected between November 2019 and August 2021 using surveys and data from the online booking platform.

OHP delivery was impacted by COVID-19, with interventions interrupted, reduced, eliminated or delivered differently (eg, in-person training moved online). Despite these challenges, progress against all KPIs was made. 93 posters were deployed across the hospital site, along with animated video 41% (233/565) of families recalled seeing OHP materials across the hospital site (KPI1). 737 children received STB (KPI2), averaging 35 children/month during the active project. Following STB, 96% participants stated they learnt something, and 94% committed to behaviour change. Finally, 73 staff members (KPI3) received oral health training. All people providing feedback (32/32) reported learning something new from the training session, with 84% (27/32) reporting that they would do things differently in the future.

Results highlight the importance of flexibility and resilience when delivering QI projects under challenging conditions or unforeseen circumstances. While results suggest that hospital-based OHP is potentially an effective and equitable way to improve patient, family and staff knowledge of good oral health practices, future work is needed to understand if and how patients and staff put into practice the desired behaviour change and what impact this may have on oral health outcomes.
Correlation between serum lipid profiles and cognitive impairment in old age: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Yu Yafu , Yan Pingting , Cheng Guirong , Liu Dan , Xu Lang , Yang Mengliu , Xu Heng , Cheng Xi , Lian Pengfei , Zeng Yan
Published: April 2023

Background

The correlation between cognitive function and lipid profiles, including total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and triglycerides, is inconsistent.

Aims

This cross-sectional study investigated the association between serum lipid levels and the prevalence of cognitive impairment among community-dwelling older adults and explored this difference in association by gender and urban-rural residency.

Methods

Participants aged 65 and above in urban and rural areas were recruited between 2018 and 2020, selected from the Hubei Memory and Aging Cohort Study. Detailed neuropsychological evaluations, clinical examinations and laboratory tests were conducted in community health service centres. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyse the correlation between serum lipid profiles and the prevalence of cognitive impairment.

Results

We identified 1 336 cognitively impaired adults (≥65 years)—1 066 with mild cognitive impairment and 270 with dementia—from 4 746 participants. Triglycerides level was correlated with cognitive impairment in the total sample (χ2=6.420, p=0.011). In gender-stratified multivariate analysis, high triglycerides in males reduced the risk of cognitive impairment (OR: 0.785, 95% CI: 0.623 to 0.989, p=0.040), and high LDL-C in females increased the risk of cognitive impairment (OR: 1.282, 95% CI: 1.040 to 1.581, p=0.020). In both gender-stratified and urban-rural stratified multivariate analyses, high triglycerides reduced the risk of cognitive impairment in older urban men (OR: 0.734, 95% CI: 0.551 to 0.977, p=0.034), and high LDL-C increased the risk of cognitive impairment in older rural women (OR: 1.830, 95% CI: 1.119 to 2.991, p=0.016).

Conclusions

There are gender and urban-rural differences in the correlation of serum lipids with cognitive impairment. High triglycerides levels may be a protective factor for cognitive function in older urban men, while high LDL-C levels may be a risk factor for cognitive function in older rural women.
Convexity subarachnoid haemorrhage: a practical guide
Authors: Ly John Van , Ma Henry , Shaloo Singhal , Clissold Benjamin , Phan Thanh
Published: April 2023

Atraumatic convexity subarachnoid haemorrhage describes spontaneous bleeding into the convexities of the brain sulci without parenchymal involvement. Its many causes include reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome, cerebral sinus venous thrombosis, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome and (in older people) cerebral amyloid angiopathy. We describe the clinical and radiological features of non-traumatic convexity subarachnoid haemorrhage with its various presentations, causes, treatments and prognoses, and use clinical vignettes to highlight important clinical points and pitfalls.
Forested wetlands in a protected area and the adjacent working landscape provide complementary biodiversity value based on breeding birds: A case study from Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Brazner John , Walker Jake , Mackinnon Frances , Cameron Rob
Published: April 2023

Protected areas (PAs) are a key component of most conservation strategies because they are thought to enhance biodiversity value relative to similar habitats in working landscapes. To examine whether PAs in Nova Scotia are functioning to enhance the biodiversity value of the landscapes in which they are embedded, we surveyed breeding bird communities in forested wetlands inside and outside of a large PA during 2018 and 2019. We found significantly higher species richness and diversity at sites in the working landscape relative to those inside the PA. Bird communities from different wetland types inside the PA were distinct from each other and those outside the PA, whereas bird communities at outside sites were homogenized and comprised of more early-successional species. There were numerous species of conservation concern at both inside and outside sites, indicating that both types of sites are playing important conservation roles. Abundances of these key species were driven by a combination of local (e.g., water table depth, herb, and shrub cover) and landscape scale factors (e.g., edge density and human disturbance). The higher abundance of long-distance migrants and insectivores at inside sites suggests PAs are providing critical additional support to key guilds that are in steep decline.
Riding the Seesaw: what Higgsstrahlung may reveal about massive neutrinos
Authors: Felkl Tobias , Lackner Adam , Schmidt Michael
Published: April 2023

We investigate if the projected high-precision measurements of the cross section of the Higgsstrahlung process $$e^+ e^- \rightarrow Zh$$

e
+

e
-

→
Z
h

at a future electron–positron collider can be utilised to indirectly probe the fermionic Seesaw models. We consider the two centre-of-mass energies $$\sqrt{s}=240$$

s

=
240

 GeV and 365 GeV, and compare the collider reaches to constraints from electroweak observables, probes of lepton flavour universality and the existing and prospective bounds from searches for lepton flavour violation. For the analysis we assume the limit of an exactly conserved lepton-number symmetry. We find that while any appreciable correction to the Higgsstrahlung cross section is already strictly constrained in the Type-I Seesaw model, effects of up to $${\mathcal {O}}(10\%)$$

O
(
10
%
)

are possible within Type-III Seesaw.
Impact of ferromagnetic nanoparticles on magnetized Eyring–Powell nanofluid flow subject to magnetic dipole
Authors: Tabrez M. , Khan W. A. , Hussain I. , Zubair M.
Published: April 2023

Due to recent advancements in technologies and nanoscience, research focused on nanofluid because of its extensive use in many industrial as well as manufacturing processes. Nanotechnology is widely utilized in many photovoltaic devices, mini-computers, bio-medical apparatus, electronic instruments, cooling and heating of metallic plates, etc. In view of numerous applications, the basic aim of this work is to explore the impact of ferromagnetic nanomaterial on 2-D Eyring–Powell fluid flow. Characteristics of viscous dissipation and Brownian movement are under consideration. Some suitable similarity transformations are exploited to achieve the nonlinear ODEs from PDEs. Bvp4c scheme is implemented to solve the resultant system of equation. Impacts of ferromagnetic interaction parameter, thermophoresis parameter, viscous dissipation, Curie temperature and Eckert number are perceived for velocity, temperature as well as concentration fields. Moreover, velocity, thermal and mass transfer gradients are deliberated and scrutinized graphically. It is found that upsurge in the value of magnetic parameter reduces the velocity profile while it deteriorates against Eyring–Powell fluid parameter. Additionally, greater thermophoresis parameter has augmented the temperature profile while it shows opposite behavior for concentration.
Existence of Periodic Waves in a Perturbed Generalized BBM Equation
Authors: Dai Yanfei , Wei Minzhi , Han Maoan
Published: April 2023

In this paper, a perturbed quintic BBM equation with weak backward diffusion and dissipation effects is investigated. By applying geometric singular perturbation theory and analyzing the perturbations of a Hamiltonian system with a hyper-elliptic Hamiltonian of degree six, we prove the existence of isolated periodic wave solutions with certain wave speed in an open interval. It is also shown that isolated periodic wave solutions persist for any energy parameter [Formula: see text] in an open interval under small perturbation. Furthermore, we prove that the wave speed [Formula: see text] of periodic wave is strictly monotonically increasing with respect to [Formula: see text] by analyzing Abelian integral having three generating elements. Moreover, the upper and lower bounds of the limiting wave speed are obtained. Our analysis is mainly based on Melnikov theory, Chebyshev criteria, and symbolic computation, which may be useful for other problems.
BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY? RELIGIOUS DIRECTORS AND DIGITAL INNOVATION
Authors: BENDIG DAVID , ERNST FABIAN
Published: April 2023

Digital innovation has become an important focus for corporations wishing to provide novel products and services to their customers. To achieve this, firms must maintain a disruptive organisational posture and promote risk-taking behaviours. In contrast, religious executives are generally seen in the literature as risk-averse and endorse conservative values, such as traditionalism, security, and conformity. In an analysis of large U.S. firms between 2010 and 2015 and using a novel measure for the religiosity of board directors, we find that companies with higher proportions of religious board directors file fewer digital patents and receive fewer citations on their digital patents. Moreover, this study establishes firms’ technological and religious environments as relevant boundary conditions. We contribute to the innovation management literature by introducing board religiosity as an antecedent to digital patenting activities in large firms and by establishing leisure activities as an indicator of the religiosity of executives. In addition, this study offers relevant organisational policy implications with respect to diversity initiatives and board decision-making.