bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial priorities for freshwater biodiversity conservation in light of catchment protection and connectivity in Europe
Authors: Szabolcs Márton , Kapusi Felícia , Carrizo Savrina , Markovic Danijela , Freyhof Jörg , Cid Núria , Cardoso Ana Cristina , Scholz Mathias , Kasperidus Hans D. , Darwall William R. T. , Lengyel Szabolcs
Published: May 2022

Freshwater ecosystems host disproportionately high numbers of species relative to their surface area yet are poorly protected globally. We used data on the distribution of 1631 species of aquatic plant, mollusc, odonate and fish in 18,816 river and lake catchments in Europe to establish spatial conservation priorities based on the occurrence of threatened, range-restricted and endemic species using the Marxan systematic conservation planning tool. We found that priorities were highest for rivers and ancient lakes in S Europe, large rivers and lakes in E and N Europe, smaller lakes in NW Europe and karst/limestone areas in the Balkans, S France and central Europe. Thea prioriinclusion of well-protected catchments resulted in geographically more balanced priorities and better coverage of threatened (critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable) species. Thea prioriexclusion of well-protected catchments showed that priority areas that need further conservation interventions are in S and E Europe. We developed three ways to evaluate the correspondence between conservation priority and current protection by assessing whether a cathment has more (or less) priority given its protection level relative to all other catchments. Each method found that priority relative to protection was high in S and E Europe and generally low in NW Europe. The inclusion of hydrological connectivity had little influence on these patterns but decreased the coverage of threatened species, indicating a trade-off between connectivity and conservation of threatened species. Our results suggest that catchments in S and E Europe need urgent conservation attention (protected areas, restoration, management, species protection) in the face of imminent threats such as river regulation, dam construction, hydropower development and climate change. Our study presents continental-scale conservation priorities for freshwater ecosystems in ecologically meaningful planning units and will thus be important in freshwater biodiversity conservation policy and practice, and water management in Europe.
Associations between prisons and recidivism: A nationwide longitudinal study
Authors: Yu Rongqin , Långström Niklas , Forsman Mats , Sjölander Arvid , Fazel Seena , Molero Yasmina
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To examine differences in recidivism rates between different prisons using two designs—between-individual and within-individual—to account for confounding factors.

Methods

We examined recidivism rates among 37,891 individuals released from 44 Swedish prisons in three security levels, and who were followed from 2006 to 2013. We used longitudinal data from nationwide registers, including all convictions from district courts. First, we applied a between-individual design (Cox proportional hazards regression), comparing reconviction rates between individuals released from prisons within the same security level, while adjusting for a range of individual-level covariates. Second, we applied a within-individual design (stratified Cox proportional hazards regression), comparing rates of reconviction within the same individuals, i.e., we compared rates after release from one prison to the rates in the same individual after release from another prison, thus adjusting for all time-invariant confounders within each individual (e.g. genetics and early environment). We also adjusted for a range of time-varying individual-level covariates.

Results

Results showed differences in the hazard of recidivism between different prisons in between-individual analyses, with hazards ranging from 1.22 (1.05–1.43) to 4.99 (2.44–10.21). Results from within-individual analyses, which further adjusted for all time-invariant confounders, showed minimal differences between prisons, with hazards ranging from 0.95 (0.87–1.05) to 1.05 (0.95–1.16). Only small differences were found when violent and non-violent crimes were analyzed separately.

Conclusions

The study highlights the importance of research designs that more fully adjust for individual-level confounding factors to avoid over-interpretation of the variability in comparisons across prisons.
Vice-versa: The iron trade in the western Roman Empire between Gaul and the Mediterranean
Authors: Pagès Gaspard , Dillmann Philippe , Vega Enrique , Berranger Marion , Bauvais Sylvain , Long Luc , Fluzin Philippe
Published: May 2022

Starting from the second century BC, with the fast expansion of the Roman Empire, iron production and consumption developed exponentially in north-western Europe. This rapid growth naturally led to an increase in trade, that still remains to be studied encompassing a broad scope, so as to not neglect long-distance exchanges. This is today possible by taking advantage of the progress made in the past 40 years in archaeology and archaeometallurgy. Cargoes of iron bars recovered from a group of 23 wrecks located off the coast of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer (Bouches-du-Rhône, France), opposite an old branch of the Rhône River, constitute a rich opportunity to examine this trade, by comparing the slag inclusions trapped in iron bars to primary slag from the six main ironmaking areas in Gaul. Based on a trace element analysis of these inclusions and this slag, we suggest that ships travelled down the Rhône carrying iron produced in Wallonia (Belgium), while others sailed up the Rhône transporting iron produced in Montagne Noire (Aude, France).
Handheld dynamometer reliability to measure knee extension strength in rehabilitation patients—A cross-sectional study
Authors: Pinto-Ramos João , Moreira Tiago , Costa Frederico , Tavares Helena , Cabral João , Costa-Santos Cristina , Barroso Joana , Sousa-Pinto Bernardo
Published: May 2022

Introduction

The Handheld Dynamometer (HHD) has the potential to overcome some of the logistic and economic limitations of isokinetic dynamometers for measuring knee extension muscle strength. However, its reliability has not been fully assessed. The purpose of this study is to measure intra and inter-rater reliability of HHD for knee extension strength in patients receiving rehabilitation treatment, as well as to understand in which conditions is the reliability higher.

Methods

Twenty-nine patients admitted in an inpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation unit were consecutively included in this cross-sectional study. Two experienced and two inexperienced physicians made two assessments of knee extension strength with HHD, separated by three hours. Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC), absolute differences between assessments, and correlations between strength and functional variables were calculated.

Results

Intra and inter-rater ICC were overall high (≥ 0.950 and 0.927, respectively). Higher values were found when average of two measurements were made for estimating intra-rater ICC (ICC = 0.978; 95%CI = 0.969–0.985) but not for inter-rater ICC. ICC were not statistically significantly different when calculated based on measurements performed by inexperienced physicians and experienced ones. There was a moderate correlation between strength and functional variables.

Conclusion

Handheld Dynamometer seems to be a reliable option to measure knee extension muscle strength, particularly when two measurements are performed and their average is reported.
Distributed uplink cache for improved energy and spectral efficiency in B5G small cell network
Authors: Sufyan Mubarak Mohammed Al Ezzi , Rehman Waheed Ur , Salam Tabinda , Al-Salehi Abdul Rahman , Ejaz Ali Qazi , Haseeb Malik Abdul
Published: May 2022

The advent of content-centric networks and Small Cell Networks (SCN) has resulted in the exponential growth of data for both uplink and downlink transmission. Data caching is considered one of the popular solutions to cater to the resultant challenges of network congestion and bottleneck of backhaul links in B5G networks. Caching for uplink transmission in distributed B5G scenarios has several challenges such as duplicate matching of contents, mobile station’s unawareness about the cached contents, and the storage of large content size. This paper proposes a cache framework for uplink transmission in distributed B5G SCNs. Our proposed framework generates comprehensive lists of cache contents from all the Small Base Stations (SBSs) in the network to remove similar contents and assist uplink transmission. In addition, our framework also proposes content matching at a Mobile Station (MS) in contrast to an SBS, which effectively improves the energy and spectrum efficiency. Furthermore, large size contents are segmented and their fractions are stored in the distributed cache to improve the cache hit ratio. Our analysis shows that the proposed framework outperforms the existing schemes by improving the energy and spectrum efficiency of both access and core networks. Compared to the existing state of the art, our proposed framework improves the energy and spectrum efficiency of the access network by 41.28% and 15.58%, respectively. Furthermore, the cache hit ratio and throughput are improved by 9% and 40.00%, respectively.
Cognitive workload evaluation of landmarks and routes using virtual reality
Authors: Abdurrahman Usman Alhaji , Zheng Lirong , Yeh Shih-Ching
Published: May 2022

Investigating whether landmarks and routes affect navigational efficiency and learning transfer in traffic is essential. In this study, a virtual reality-based driving system was employed to determine the effects of landmarks and routes on human neurocognitive behavior. The participants made four (4) journeys to predetermined destinations. They were provided with different landmarks and routes to aid in reaching their respective destinations. We considered two (2) groups and conducted two (2) sessions per group in this study. Each group had sufficient and insufficient landmarks. We hypothesized that using insufficient landmarks would elicit an increase in psychophysiological activation, such as increased heart rate, eye gaze, and pupil size, which would cause participants to make more errors. Moreover, easy and difficult routes elicited different cognitive workloads. Thus, a high cognitive load would negatively affect the participants when trying to apply the knowledge acquired at the beginning of the exercise. In addition, the navigational efficiency of routes with sufficient landmarks was remarkably higher than that of routes with insufficient landmarks. We evaluated the effects of landmarks and routes by assessing the recorded information of the drivers’ pupil size, heart rate, and driving performance data. An analytical strategy, several machine learning algorithms, and data fusion methods have been employed to measure the neurocognitive load of each participant for user classification. The results showed that insufficient landmarks and difficult routes increased pupil size and heart rate, which caused the participants to make more errors. The results also indicated that easy routes with sufficient landmarks were deemed more efficient for navigation, where users’ cognitive loads were much lower than those with insufficient landmarks and difficult routes. The high cognitive workload hindered the participants when trying to apply the knowledge acquired at the beginning of the exercise. Meanwhile, the data fusion method achieved higher accuracy than the other classification methods. The results of this study will help improve the use of landmarks and design of driving routes, as well as paving the way to analyze traffic safety using the drivers’ cognition and performance data.
Psychometric evaluation of protective measures in Native STAND: A multi-site cross-sectional study of American Indian Alaska Native high school students
Authors: Kelley Allyson , McCoy Thomas , Skye Megan , Singer Michelle , Craig Rushing Stephanie , Perkins Tamara , Donald Caitlin , Rajani Kavita , Morgan Brittany , Milligan Kelley , Zaback Tosha , Lambert William
Published: May 2022

American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) youth are strong in culture and rich in heritage and experience unique strengths and challenges throughout adolescence. Documenting conditions that protect against risk factors associated with poor health outcomes are needed. We explored scales that measure self-esteem, culture, social support, and community from a sample of 1,456 youth involved in Native STAND, a culturally-relevant evidence-based sexual health intervention. We established content validity by reviewing existing literature and community feedback. Construct validity was examined using factor analysis. The final self-esteem model included seven items, factor loadings ranged from 0.47 to 0.63 for positive self-esteem and 0.77 to 0.81 for negative self-esteem. The final culture model included three items, factor loadings 0.73 to 0.89. The social support scale included four items, factor loadings ranged from 0.86 to 0.87 for family social support and 0.75 to 0.77 for friends social support. The community and community safety scale included three items; factor loadings ranged from 0.52 to 0.82. Coefficient alphas for scales ranged from α = 0.63 to α = 0.86. This study validated scales in a national sample of AI/AN youth–psychometric scales provide an essential tool for documenting the needs and strengths of AI/AN youth.
A spatial-temporal analysis at the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic and its determinants: The case of Recife neighborhoods, Brazil
Authors: Souza Arthur Pimentel Gomes de , Mota Caroline Maria de Miranda , Rosa Amanda Gadelha Ferreira , Figueiredo Ciro José Jardim de , Candeias Ana Lúcia Bezerra
Published: May 2022

The outbreak of COVID-19 has led to there being a worldwide socio-economic crisis, with major impacts on developing countries. Understanding the dynamics of the disease and its driving factors, on a small spatial scale, might support strategies to control infections. This paper explores the impact of the COVID-19 on neighborhoods of Recife, Brazil, for which we examine a set of drivers that combines socio-economic factors and the presence of non-stop services. A three-stage methodology was conducted by conducting a statistical and spatial analysis, including clusters and regression models. COVID-19 data were investigated concerning ten dates between April and July 2020. Hotspots of the most affected regions and their determinant effects were highlighted. We have identified that clusters of confirmed cases were carried from a well-developed neighborhood to socially deprived areas, along with the emergence of hotspots of the case-fatality rate. The influence of age-groups, income, level of education, and the access to essential services on the spread of COVID-19 was also verified. The recognition of variables that influence the spatial spread of the disease becomes vital for pinpointing the most vulnerable areas. Consequently, specific prevention actions can be developed for these places, especially in heterogeneous cities.
Factors associated with low-level viraemia in people with HIV starting antiretroviral therapy: A Swedish observational study
Authors: Brattgård Hanna , Björkman Per , Nowak Piotr , Treutiger Carl Johan , Gisslén Magnus , Elvstam Olof
Published: May 2022

Objective

Low-level viraemia (LLV) occurs in some people with HIV (PWH) receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) and has been linked to inferior treatment outcomes. We investigated factors associated with LLV in a nationwide cohort of Swedish PWH starting ART.

Methods

Participants were identified from the InfCareHIV register, with the following inclusion criteria: ART initiation 2006–2017, age >15 years, ≥4 viral load (VL) results available and no documented treatment interruptions or virologic failure (≥2 consecutive VL ≥200 copies/ml) during follow-up. Starting from 6 months after ART initiation, participants were followed for 24 months and categorised as viral suppression (VS; VL <50 copies/ml) or LLV (≥2 consecutive VL 50–199 copies/ml). We analysed the association between the following factors and LLV using multivariable logistic regression: sex, age, pre-ART VL and CD4 count, ART regimen, country of birth, HIV-1 subtype and transmission category.

Results

Among 3383 participants, 3132 (92.6%) had VS and 251 (7.4%) had LLV. In univariable analyses, factors associated with LLV were male sex, higher age, lower pre-ART CD4 count, higher pre-ART VL and ART regimen. After adjustment, the following factors were associated with LLV (adjusted odds ratio; 95% confidence interval): male sex (1.6; 1.1–2.3), higher pre-ART VL (2.7; 2.2–3.3), pre-ART CD4 count <200 cells/μl (1.6; 1.2–2.2), protease inhibitor (PI)-based regimen (1.5; 1.1–2.1), non-standard ART (2.4; 1.0–5.5) and injecting drug use (2.0; 1.1–3.7).

Conclusion

Among Swedish PWH, LLV during ART was associated with markers of HIV disease severity before starting ART, male sex, injecting drug use and use of PI-based or non-standard ART regimens.
Neisseria genes required for persistence identified via in vivo screening of a transposon mutant library
Authors: Rhodes Katherine A. , Ma Man Cheong , Rendón María A. , So Magdalene
Published: May 2022

The mechanisms used by human adapted commensal Neisseria to shape and maintain a niche in their host are poorly defined. These organisms are common members of the mucosal microbiota and share many putative host interaction factors with Neisseria meningitidis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Evaluating the role of these shared factors during host carriage may provide insight into bacterial mechanisms driving both commensalism and asymptomatic infection across the genus. We identified host interaction factors required for niche development and maintenance through in vivo screening of a transposon mutant library of Neisseria musculi, a commensal of wild-caught mice which persistently and asymptomatically colonizes the oral cavity and gut of CAST/EiJ and A/J mice. Approximately 500 candidate genes involved in long-term host interaction were identified. These included homologs of putative N. meningitidis and N. gonorrhoeae virulence factors which have been shown to modulate host interactions in vitro. Importantly, many candidate genes have no assigned function, illustrating how much remains to be learned about Neisseria persistence. Many genes of unknown function are conserved in human adapted Neisseria species; they are likely to provide a gateway for understanding the mechanisms allowing pathogenic and commensal Neisseria to establish and maintain a niche in their natural hosts. Validation of a subset of candidate genes confirmed a role for a polysaccharide capsule in N. musculi persistence but not colonization. Our findings highlight the potential utility of the Neisseria musculi-mouse model as a tool for studying the pathogenic Neisseria; our work represents a first step towards the identification of novel host interaction factors conserved across the genus.
Video and emotionality in the social network sites during elections: The general election campaign of April 2019 in Spain
Authors: López-Olano Carlos , Sánchez-Castillo Sebastián , Peris Àlvar
Published: May 2022

This is a study on videos generated or shared on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram by the main political parties’ candidates during the general election campaign for the government of Spain in April 2019. Using a quantitative analysis and a statistical approach, the means of audiovisual persuasion used by the candidates are analysed, addressing their emotional nature. It is shown that the traditional political parties in their campaigns use audiovisual formats that are less emotional than those of the new emerging parties. Secondly, a clear difference can be seen among the leaders in their use of audiovisual formats to convey their messages.
Occurrence and antibiogram of multidrug-resistant Salmonella enterica isolated from dairy products in Libya
Authors: Garbaj Aboubaker M. , Gawella Tahani B. Ben , Sherif Jihan A. , Naas Hesham T. , Eshamah Hanan L. , Azwai Salah M. , Gammoudi Fatim T. , Abolghait Said K. , Moawad Ashraf A. , Barbieri Ilaria , Eldaghayes Ibrahim M.
Published: May 2022

Background and Aim: Foodborne illnesses are a serious challenge to human health and the economic sector. For example, salmonellosis remains a burden in developed and developing nations. Rapid and reliable molecular methods to identify Salmonella strains are essential for minimizing human infection. This study aimed to identify Salmonella spp. in raw milk and dairy products using conventional and molecular techniques and to test the antibiotic susceptibility of the isolated strains.

Materials and Methods: One hundred and thirty-one milk and dairy product samples were randomly collected from different localities in Libya. Samples were examined for the presence of Salmonella by conventional culture techniques, including cultivation in Rappaport-Vassiliadis broth and streaking on xylose lysine deoxycholate agar. Identification also used polymerase chain reaction and partial sequencing of 16S rDNA. Twenty-four antibiotics were used for the examination of antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella spp. isolates with the agar disk diffusion method (Kirby–Bauer technique). Multi-antibiotic resistance index and antibiotic resistance index (ARI)for Salmonella enterica isolates were calculated.

Results: Twenty-one of 131 samples (16%) were positive for Salmonella spp. recovered from 9 (16%), 2 (11%), 4 (22.2%), and 6 (46%) samples of raw cow milk, fermented raw milk, and fresh locally made soft cheeses, Maasora and Ricotta), respectively. Samples of ice cream, milk powder, and infant formula showed no Salmonella spp. contamination. Only 9 of 21 (42.8%) isolates were confirmed as S. enterica by partial sequence 16S rDNA analysis. All isolates were resistant to amoxycillin, bacitracin, penicillin G, lincomycin, vancomycin, clindamycin, and cloxacillin with an ARI of 0.042. In contrast, all tested strains were sensitive to levofloxacin, doxycycline, and ciprofloxacin. In addition, all of the tested isolates (100%) were resistant to more than one antibiotic.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated the applicability of molecular techniques, compared with conventional methods, as preferable for the identification of Salmonella in milk and dairy products and thus reduction of milk-borne transmission to the consumers. From the view of public health, isolation and identification of Salmonella multidrug-resistant strains from raw cow's milk and locally prepared dairy products sold in the Libyan markets indicate the need to improve the handling and processing of milk and dairy products to minimize the prevalence of Salmonella, one of the most important foodborne microorganisms that cause food poisoning.
El papel de la geografía en la época actual: el caso de la educación
Authors: Llanos Henríquez Efraín
Published: May 2022

El presente artículo pretende identificar, analizar y resaltar el papel que juega la geografía en los tiempos actuales, destacando la importancia de esta ciencia en el proceso educativo. Se inicia el artículo con un análisis sucinto de la importancia de la geografía hasta el siglo XIX; seguidamente, se relaciona el desarrollo teórico alcanzado por la geografía en el siglo XX y el papel destacado de la ciencia geográfica en el análisis, interpretación y solución de los problemas espaciales que se presentan en la superficie terrestre. A continuación, se resalta la importancia de aquella en la educación y se finaliza con unas pequeñas conclusiones.
El portafolio: un diálogo necesario para la cualificación de la escritura.
Authors: Pertuz Córdoba Wilfran
Published: May 2022

En este artículo se presentan los resultados de una investigación realizada en un centro de estudios superiores con el objetivo de desarrollar y mejorar las competencias escriturales de los alumnos. Se describen los instrumentos y la metodología, enfatizando el uso del portafolio como herramienta de evaluación. Se incluye una muestra de los trabajos de los estudiantes.
Las tic como apoyo al desarrollo de los procesos de pensamiento y la construcción activa de conocimientos
Authors: Domínguez Merlano Eulises
Published: May 2022

Este es un artículo de reflexión desde una perspectiva analítica, enfocado en los resultados de investigación de la incorporación de las TIC en los procesos de enseñanza-aprendizaje. Se analizan las diversas estrategias didácticas que promueven el aprendizaje autónomo, colaborativo y el pensamiento crítico y creativo mediante el uso de las Tic, a la vez que el fomento del uso de las Tic como herramientas para investigar, organizar, evaluar y comunicar información. Una de las principales preocupaciones es hacer evidente la necesidad de que los profesores se conviertan en facilitadores más que en educadores frontales y que los estudiantes tiendan a desarrollar habilidades de pensamiento crítico, desarrollar estrategias de resolución de problemas, dirigir su propio aprendizaje y colaborar entre ellos en la construcción del conocimiento.
Consideraciones sobre un currículo para la enseñanza del español como lengua extranjera en el Caribe colombiano
Authors: Fonseca Mendoza Clara Inés
Published: May 2022

En este artículo se presenta un avance de algunas consideraciones iniciales tenidas en cuenta para el diseño del nivel de fundamentación de un currículo para la enseñanza del español como lengua extranjera. En él se propone una interpretación formulada a partir de la hipótesis unidad de producción del discurso de Teun van Dijk (2000), que bien puede explicar el papel del lenguaje en el aprendizaje de lenguas extranjeras; también se incluyen los puntos de vista sobre el papel de la norma y la variedad lingüística sostenidos al interior del grupo SICELE1 nodo Caribe, organización en la cual se propone el mencionado currículo.
Ultrathin Film Amorphous Silicon Solar Cell Performance using Rigorous Coupled Wave Analysis Method
Authors: Dubey Raghvendra Sarvjeet , Saravanan Sigamani
Published: May 2022

The issues related to global energy needs and environmental safeties as well as health crisis are some of the major challenges faced by the human, which make us to generate new pollution-free and sustainable energy sources. For that the optical functional nanostructures can be manipulated the confined light at the nanoscale level. These characteristics are emerging and leading candidate for the solar energy conversion. The combination of photonic (dielectric) and plasmonic (metallic) nanostructures are responsible for the development of better optical performance in solar cells. Here, the enhancement of light trapping within the thin active region is the primary goal. In this work, we have studied the influence of front-ITO (rectangular) and back-Ag (triangular) nanogratings were incorporated with ultrathin film amorphous silicon (a-Si) solar cell by using rigorous coupled wave analysis (RCWA) method. The improvement of light absorption, scattering (large angle), diffraction and field distributions (TE/TM) were demonstrated by the addition of single and dual nanogratings structures. Significantly, the plasmonic (noble metal) nanogratings are located at the bottom of the cell structure as a backside reflector which is helpful for the omni-directional reflection and increased the path length (life time) of the photons due to that the collection of the charge carriers were enhanced. Further, the proposed solar cell structure has optimized and compared to a back-Ag, front-ITO and dual nanogratings based ultrathin film amorphous silicon solar cell. Finally, the obtained results were evidenced for the assistance of photonic and plasmonic modes and achieved the highest current density (Jsc) of 23.82 mA/cm2(TE) and 22.75 mA/cm2 (TM) with in 50 nm thin active layers by integration of (dual) cell structures.
Appraising the Origins of British Language and the Challenges of Business Communication
Authors: Dansou Bertin Y.
Published: May 2022

The English language  has shown the same history and development as Anglo-Saxon and British peoples. English ancestors were great warriors and business people. They showed great achievements in Germanic, Scandinavian, Greek, Roman ,French ,English and American wars ,and other  activities. This makes English a relevant and suitable language for Wars, social and economic activities; hence the sociolinguistic origins and dimensions of English and business. Nevertheless, this well-known and important language is challenged by business demands that shape and reshape English for communication in the direction of modernity and globalization. The purpose of this analysis is to use structuralism criticism to revisit the diachronic and synchronic aspects of the language to demonstrate connections and interconnections between the origins of the language ,its development and the use of business communication for the promotion of social, political and economic activities. Languages promotion and business development or success are then interdependent for sustainable development
Investigation of the impact of electromagnetic fields emitted close to the head by smart glasses
Authors: Jungk Philipp , Wienke Matthias , Schiefer Christoph , Hartmann Ulrich , Harth Volker , Terschüren Claudia , Alteköster Carsten , Friemert Daniel
Published: May 2022

The functionality of smart glasses includes the possibility of wireless communication. For this purpose, WiFi or Bluetooth modules are integrated into the glasses. They emit electromagnetic radiation in the vicinity of the user’s head. This simulation study investigates the impact of varying positions, frequencies, and antenna types of the embedded WiFi or Bluetooth modules on different tissue types in the human head. The absorption of electromagnetic energy causes the main impact on the tissue in the head. This physical process is best described by the specific absorption rate SAR. To investigate the effects of position, frequency, and antenna type on the simulated SAR values multiple simulations have been carried out considering real-world applications of smart glasses. The results show that the type of antenna has little effect on the SAR values of the different tissues. The maximum regulated output powers explain the frequencies’ impact on the exposure. According to our findings, the greatest influence on the SAR values can be attributed to the placement of the antenna. Finally, our study reveals that positioning the antenna at the front side of the head is optimal for most tissues because of its maximal distance to the head tissues.
Skeletonema species (Bacillariophyta) from the northwestern Sea of Japan: morphology, ecology, seasonal and long-term dynamics
Authors: Shevchenko Olga G. , Ponomareva Anna A. , Shulgina Maria A. , Tevs Kirill O. , Orlova Tatiana Yu.
Published: May 2022

Skeletonema species are among the most important components of phytoplankton communities in the temperate and tropical Pacific Ocean. Data on Skeletonema species diversity and abundance in the northeastern Pacific are fragmentary. The long-term observations (1996–2019) of the phytoplankton from the coastal waters of the northwestern Sea of Japan resulted in five Skeletonema species being recorded: Skeletonema costatum, S. dohrnii, S. japonicum, S. marinoi and S. menzelii. For each of the species, a morphological description is provided based on electron microscopy. Ecological factors influencing the distribution of the species and their occurrence under certain environmental parameters are discussed. One of the species, S. menzelii, is a new record for Russia. Skeletonema costatum was confirmed to occur in the study area. Seasonal and interannual changes in the abundance of Skeletonema species were studied. The concentrations of the species varied from 20 cells l−1 to 12,700,000 cells l−1. From 1996 to 2018 there was a downward trend in the numbers of Skeletonema. Skeletonema japonicum was noted for the first time to bloom. Skeletonema dohrnii formed summer blooms; S. japonicum bloomed in the autumn. No Skeletonema blooms were detected in the winter months.
The Influence of Chinese Proficiency and Cultural Background on CFL Learners’ Comprehension of Chinese Logogriphs
Authors: Wang Yizhen , Wang Xiaolu
Published: May 2022

This study investigates how Chinese logogriphs are comprehended by learners of Chinese as a foreign language (CFL) with different Chinese proficiencies and cultural backgrounds. Eighty-eight CFL learners from four cultures (South Koreans, Southeast Asians, Western Caucasians and Arabs) were divided into two Chinese proficiency groups according to their HSK scores, and 15 L1 Chinese speakers also took part in the experiment as a control group. The participants were asked to write down how they interpreted Chinese logogriphs in questionnaires. An ANOVA analysis was conducted to examine the effects of Chinese proficiency and cultural background on logogriph comprehension. The results indicate that the accuracy of logogriph comprehension and the frequency of adopting logogriph-solving strategies positively correlated with the learners’ Chinese proficiency, and that those with higher proficiency used more linguistic and cultural knowledge of the target language. As for cultural influence, Western Caucasians tended to think more visually than the other three cultural groups, and South Koreans and Southeast Asians were better at activating Chinese semantic knowledge. The closer the CFL learners’ culture is to Chinese culture, the more similar strategies they adopted to those of L1 Chinese participants. Moreover, the participants’ Chinese proficiency and cultural background show an interactive effect on their logogriph comprehension, with the former factor having a greater influence than the latter in this process.
Motor Compatibility Effect on the Comprehension of Complex Manual Action Sentences in L2: An ERP Study
Authors: Zang Anqi , Wang Huili , Guo Hanning , Wang Yan
Published: May 2022

Embodiment theories proposed that the comprehension of language involves sensory-motor simulation in the brain. The present study examined the brain response to motor compatibility effect in comprehending action-related linguistic materials for participants learning Chinese as a second language (L2). In this study, participants are required to read action-related sentences describing an agent performing two manual actions simultaneously or sequentially by manipulating temporal conjunctions. The sentences with simultaneous actions are marked by Chinese parallel structure 一边……一边…… (“while”) showing non-congruent motor condition while the sequential action sentences are marked by 先……然后…… (“after”) showing congruent motor condition. Event-Related Potentials (ERPs) were recorded with the second verb phrase. A larger fronto-central late positivity was observed for the sentences with simultaneous actions rather than the sentences with sequential actions due to body constraints, revealing that late L2 Chinese learners integrate embodied knowledge while processing action-related complex sentence despite demanding more cognitive resources, and longer processing time.
The Influence of Combining Computer-Assisted Language Learning With Instruction on Chinese College Students’ L2 Pragmatic Ability
Authors: Zhang Ying
Published: May 2022

In the area of computer-assisted language learning (CALL), although a number of studies have adopted various CALL-based devices (e. g., blogs, gaming, and synthetic environments) to foster second language (L2) acquisition, the vital component of instruction has received little attention. The present study explored the usefulness of CALL-based communication in conjunction with instruction on EFL learners’ L2 pragmatic development. Sixty-two EFL students from a university in China were recruited for the current research. The experimental group communicated with a native English speaker through synchronous messaging via Skype and had two instructional sessions pertinent to compliment responses, while the control group interacted with a native English speaker via Skype without having the teaching intervention. Findings from an independent samplest-test demonstrated that the experimental group produced significantly more proper compliment responses in the immediate posttest than the control group (p< . 001). Moreover, a significant difference (p< . 001) was found for the experimental group between the pre-intervention and delayed post-intervention mean scores, suggesting that CALL coupled with teaching intervention had a long-term impact on learners’ L2 pragmatic development. These findings enrich our understanding of the beneficial and lasting influence of combining CALL with instruction on EFL students’ pragmatic development. In addition, pedagogical implications for deploying CALL paired with L2 pragmatics instruction are provided.
Chinese University Students’ Attitudes Toward Chinese-English Classroom Code-Switching
Authors: Liu Hong , Wei Rining (Tony)
Published: May 2022

This study investigates students’ attitudes towards classroom code-switching (CS) between Chinese and English, and how such attitudes are influenced by learning motivation and language anxiety, the two focal variables of the present study. A total of 550 students from a university in northwest China took part in an online survey. The results of quantitative analyses suggest a division of attitudes towards CS, acknowledging its usefulness but dismissing its symbolic value. Such attitudes can be predicted based on the focal learner characteristics. The implications of the findings are discussed vis-à-vis the social psychology of CS and an optimal use of CS to assist language learning and teaching.
Reduced basis method for the nonlinear Poisson–Boltzmann equation regularized by the range-separated canonical tensor format
Authors: Kweyu Cleophas , Feng Lihong , Stein Matthias , Benner Peter
Published: May 2022

The Poisson–Boltzmann equation (PBE) is a fundamental implicit solvent continuum model for calculating the electrostatic potential of large ionic solvated biomolecules. However, its numerical solution encounters severe challenges arising from its strong singularity and nonlinearity. In (P. Benner, V. Khoromskaia, B. Khoromskij, C. Kweyu, and M. Stein, “Regularization of Poisson-Boltzmann type equations with singular source terms using the range-separated tensor format,” SIAM J. Sci. Comput., vol. 43, no. 1, pp. A415–A445, 2021; C. Kweyu, V. Khoromskaia, B. Khoromskij, M. Stein, and P. Benner, “Solution decomposition for the nonlinear Poisson-Boltzmann equation using the range-separated tensor format,” arXiv:2109.14073, 2021), the effect of strong singularities was eliminated by applying the range-separated (RS) canonical tensor format (P. Benner, V. Khoromskaia, and B. N. Khoromskij, “Range-separated tensor format for many-particle modeling,” SIAM J. Sci. Comput., vol. 40, no. 2, pp. A1034–A1062, 2018; B. N. Khoromskij, “Range-separated tensor representation of the discretized multidimensional Dirac delta and elliptic operator inverse,” J. Comput. Phys., vol. 401, p. 108998, 2020) to construct a solution decomposition scheme for the PBE. The RS tensor format allows deriving a smooth approximation to the Dirac delta distribution in order to obtain a regularized PBE (RPBE) model. However, solving the RPBE is still computationally demanding due to its high dimension

N

$\mathcal{N}$

, where

N

$\mathcal{N}$

is always in the millions. In this study, we propose to apply the reduced basis method (RBM) and the (discrete) empirical interpolation method ((D)EIM) to the RPBE in order to construct a reduced order model (ROM) of low dimension

N
≪
N

$N\ll \mathcal{N}$

, whose solution accurately approximates the nonlinear RPBE. The long-range potential can be obtained by lifting the ROM solution back to the

N

$\mathcal{N}$

-space while the short-range potential is directly precomputed analytically, thanks to the RS tensor format. The sum of both provides the total electrostatic potential. The main computational benefit is the avoidance of computing the numerical approximation of the singular electrostatic potential. We demonstrate in the numerical experiments, the accuracy and efficacy of the reduced basis (RB) approximation to the nonlinear RPBE (NRPBE) solution and the corresponding computational savings over the classical nonlinear PBE (NPBE) as well as over the RBM being applied to the classical NPBE.
Nonlinear response of Q-boosting metasurfaces beyond the time-bandwidth limit
Authors: Shafirin Pavel A. , Zubyuk Varvara V. , Fedyanin Andrey A. , Shcherbakov Maxim R.
Published: May 2022

Resonant nanostructures, such as photonic metasurfaces, have created an unprecedented case for enhanced light–matter interactions through local field engineering. However, the presence of resonances fundamentally limits the bandwidth of such interactions. Here, we report on amending the nonlinear optical response of a semiconducting metasurface through Q-boosting, where the Q-factor of a metasurface rapidly increases with time. The coupled-mode theory reveals overcoming the bandwidth limit by coupling a broadband signal to a bandwidth-matched resonance and Q-boosting at a timescale faster than a resonator lifetime. A control–excitation experiment simulation using a tailored Q-boosting silicon-germanium metasurface predicts the third-harmonic enhancement by factors of 8 (peak) and 4.5 (integrated) against the best-case static metasurface. An analysis of free-carrier losses based on experimental data shows robustness to nonradiative losses and offers a viable pathway to increasing the light–matter interactions beyond the bandwidth limit, with implications in nonlinear and quantum optics, sensing, and telecommunication technologies.
Dynamics of broadband photoinduced species and enabled photodetection in MXenes
Authors: Zhang Feng , Cao Rui , Li Zhongjun , Gao Siyan , Chen Hualong , Guo Jia , Zhang Yule , Al-Amoudi Bashaer Omar , Wageh Swelm , Al-Ghamdi Ahmed A. , Zhang Xi , Zhang Han
Published: May 2022

Dynamics of photoinduced species, as a key parameter for nanomaterials plays a significantly role in the performance of optoelectronic devices. In this work, the origin of broadband optical response for the emerging Ti3C2T
x
MXene is revealed by transient spectroscopic analysis. From ultraviolet to infrared, the steady-state and transient optical responses present wavelength-related features. The carrier lifetime is found to change from femtosecond to nanosecond time scale dominated by various photoinduced species, i.e., carrier and surface plasmon. The unique optoelectronic character enables photodetection. This fundamental study on carrier, plasmon dynamics, and application in photodetection is helpful for exploring MXene-based optoelectronic devices.
No tan transmedia: canales y cultura participativa en las audiencias de Skam España
Authors: Ortega Fernandez Eglee , Vaquerizo Domínguez Enrique
Published: May 2022

El ecosistema mediático y del entretenimiento han ido incorporando cada vez con más frecuencia contenidos basados en modelos narrativos transmedia, como consecuencia de la multiplicación de los canales, la evolución de las TIC y la adopción por parte de las audiencias de un papel más activo dentro los procesos creativos. La generalización de la distribución multiplataforma de estas nuevas narrativas facilita el rol protagónico del público que se organiza en comunidades surgidas y agrupadas en torno a sus contenidos. La serie Skam España, objeto de estudio de la presente investigación, se enmarca en estos parámetros, siguiendo el modelo de la serie original de origen noruego. Esta ficción supone un ejemplo que podría parecer representativo en el uso del transmedia para ampliar sus posibilidades narrativas y al mismo tiempo acercarse a sus seguidores. Entre los objetivos que se plantean está la identificación de los aspectos transmedia de la serie en su cuarta temporada, delimitar el papel de los canales de difusión, identificar los contenidos que generan mayor interacción y valorar el papel de la comunidad de fans como generadores y participantes de la expansión del mundo narrativo. Se aplica una metodología mixta, centrada en un análisis de contenido cuantitativo y cualitativo de ocho episodios de la cuarta temporada de la serie Skam en España. Tras desarrollar este estudio donde puede observarse la expansión de los canales narrativos y la interacción con sus comunidades de fans, teniendo como punto fuerte la ruptura de paradigmas en el uso de los canales para impulsar el engagement con las audiencias, los resultados obtenidos apuntan a la aplicación de una tímida narrativa transmedia de los canales que utiliza la serie, así como los recursos metaficcionales que permiten cruzar esa línea entre la ficción y la realidad, también definida por el concepto de la quinta pared.
Learning about Osmosis through Engineering Design Process
Authors: Rice Matthew , Mumba Frackson , Pottmeyer Laura
Published: May 2022

Students’ sound knowledge about osmosis can lead to their understanding of other related biological processes that require the movement of materials across cell membranes, such as photosynthesis, homeostasis, and cellular respiration. However, students have difficulties to understand osmosis. This challenge has been attributed to the abstract nature of the concept and the way it is presented to students. Thus, we present an engineering design, integrated biology unit in which students use the engineering design process to learn about osmosis and its related concepts. A dependent t-test revealed statistically significant differences in students’ understanding of osmosis and related concepts, and the engineering design process before and after the unit. Overall, in this unit students developed the understanding of osmosis in a real-world context through an engineering design process.
Subacute thyroiditis associated with thyrotoxic periodic paralysis after COVID-19 vaccination: a case report
Authors: Murashita Mone , Wada Norio , Baba Shuhei , Sugawara Hajime , Miyoshi Arina , Obara Shinji
Published: May 2022

We report a 26-year-old Japanese man who visited our outpatient clinic presenting fever immediately after i.m. injection of the second dose of a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine (Moderna®). At the first visit, the patient had a fever of 37.7°C and a swollen thyroid gland with mild tenderness. He was diagnosed with subacute thyroiditis (SAT) based on the presence of thyrotoxicosis (free tri-iodothyronine, 32.3 pg/mL; free thyroxine, >7.77 ng/dL; and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) < 0.01 μIU/mL), high C-reactive protein level (7.40 mg/dL), negative TSH receptor antibody, and characteristic ultrasound findings. His HLA types were A*02:01/24:02, B*15:11/35:01, Cw*03:03, DRB1*09:01/12:01, DQB1*03:03, and DPB1*05: 01/41:01. He was initially administered prednisolone 15 mg/day, following which the fever subsided. After 10 days, he developed limb weakness and could not walk. The serum potassium level decreased to 1.8 mEq/L, which confirmed the diagnosis of thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP). Potassium supplementation was initiated. The muscle weakness gradually decreased. Prednisolone therapy was terminated 6 weeks after the first visit. His thyroid function returned to normal 5 months after the first visit, through a hypothyroid state. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of TPP-associated SAT following COVID-19 vaccination. Persistent fever following vaccination should be suspected of SAT. Additionally, TPP may be associated with SAT in Asian male patients.

Learning points

Following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination, subacute thyroiditis may develop regardless of the vaccine type.

If persistent fever, anterior neck pain, swelling and tenderness of thyroid gland, and symptoms of thyrotoxicosis are observed immediately after the COVID-19 vaccination, examination in consideration of the onset of subacute thyroiditis is recommended.

HLA-B35 may be associated with the onset of subacute thyroiditis after the COVID-19 vaccination.

Although rare, subacute thyroiditis can be associated with thyrotoxic periodic paralysis, especially in Asian men.

Glucocorticoid therapy for subacute thyroiditis may induce thyrotoxic periodic paralysis through hypokalemia.