Audio Recordings Research Articles

Automation of bird voice signal analysis

Objectives. The purpose of the work is to create an experimental software for automated recognition of voice signals, which has the capabilities of long-term round-the-clock and round-the-season monitoring of animal species diversity in selected habitats and ecosystems.Methods. The work uses methods of deep machine learning of convolutional neural networks trained on mel-spectrograms of bird vocalizations, which are built using fast Fourier transform.Results. The process, methods and approaches to training a deep machine learning model for a system of passive acoustic monitoring of bird populations in Belarus are described, as well as the difficulties identified during testing of the software prototype and the results that were achieved.Conclusion. A working prototype of the software for automatic recognition of animal (bird) voice signals is presented. It performs the analysis of acoustic recordings of bird voices with the issue of probabilistic assessment of species belonging to animal vocalizations present in the recordings. The software is aimed at increasing the efficiency of bird monitoring, which ensures the implementation of conservation and research activities based on accurate and up-to-date data on species distribution.

Case Marking in Pashto Nouns: Word and Paradigm Approach

The present study investigates the case marking of nouns in the Marwat dialect of the Pashto language, spoken in many regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan by using the Word-and Paradigm (WP) approach of Haspelmath & Sims (2010). The study attempts to analyze and describe morphological processes of case marking of nouns in the Pashto language. The data was collected from different villages of district Lakki Marwat, located in the south of KPK, in the form of audio recordings of eight willing and preferably old uneducated rural participants. The analysis of the data showed that Pashto nouns shared a number of morphological features with other IA (Indo-Aryan) languages like Rangri vis-à-vis the presence of grammatical gender marking. The data also shows that Pashto nouns are morphologically rich. Nouns carry these case inflections i.e. ergative, nominative, accusative, oblique, and vocative. The study finds the WP approach suitable for the analysis of the morphologically complex Pashto language due to its ability to deal with cumulative, extended, and zero exponents.

Phenomenological Mapping: A Method For Understanding Pre-Reflective Consciousness.

Exploring the nuanced and often elusive realm of pre-reflective consciousness presents a methodological challenge, as it involves capturing experiences that arise prior to reflective thought and language. This article introduces Phenomenological Mapping, an innovative research method designed to systematically study the pre-reflective dimensions of human experience. Grounded in the foundational theories of Edmund Husserl (2012), Maurice Merleau-Ponty (2013), and Martin Heidegger (1992, 2008), the approach also integrates contemporary perspectives from Dan Zahavi (1999, Contemporary Phenomenology and Qualitative Research 5(1), 1-17, 2021), Shaun Gallagher (2006, 2017), and Evan Thompson (2010, 2017). Drawing upon advancements in neurophenomenology, embodied cognition, and intersubjectivity, Phenomenological Mapping provides a structured framework for accessing and analyzing pre-reflective consciousness. This methodology guides researchers through a sequence of eleven phases, from initial preparation and contextualization to data collection, analysis, and integration. It employs Husserl's phenomenological reduction, Merleau-Ponty's concept of embodied perception, and Heidegger's exploration of being-in-the-world. The approach is further enriched by Zahavi's intersubjectivity, Gallagher's work on embodiment, and Thompson's continuum of consciousness. By utilizing multisensory data collection techniques-such as visual diaries, audio recordings, and experiential practices-Phenomenological Mapping offers a multi-dimensional approach to analyzing subjective experience. This research contributes a novel methodological tool to phenomenology, facilitating an empirical investigation that remains faithful to the philosophical foundations of pre-reflective consciousness while bridging empirical and theoretical domains.

Разработка инструмента оценки эффективности экспериментальной деятельности подростков на примере задач с физическим содержанием

This article focuses on addressing the problem of enhancing the effectiveness of natural science education in schools, particularly in physics, by applying the principle of problem-based learning and designing lessons centered on experimental activity. The foundational unit of this model is a student's action that is motivated, deliberate, and aimed at attempting to solve a task, exploring solutions, and engaging in reflection and generalization of goal-directed actions. However, assessing the effectiveness of such actions requires high-quality research instruments capable of collecting reliable data. To address this challenge, we developed an assessment instrument and empirically tested some psychometric requirements. We hypothesized that the key requirements for such an instrument are: (1) alignment with the structure of activity; (2) multifunctionality and robustness against changes in the evaluator. These requirements were formulated by the authors based on V.V. Davydov's theory of learning activity and the theory of psycho-pedagogical measurement. Data collection was conducted through non-participant observation, with student activity evaluated by independent experts—assessors—using audio and video recordings of experimental lessons in three schools in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. The validation of the instrument's requirements was carried out through the analysis of expert judgments and the application of consistency metrics, such as the proportion of matching results and Kendall's nonparametric concordance coefficient. The analysis of the collected data demonstrated that: (a) the developed instrument effectively captures actions related to task-solving in accordance with the theoretical model; (b) the assessments by independent observers yielded similar results, as reflected in acceptable consistency metrics for their evaluations.

Family concerns in organ donor conversations: a qualitative embedded multiple-case study

BackgroundListening and responding to family concerns in organ and tissue donation is generally considered important, but has never been researched in real time. We aimed to explore in real time, (a) which family concerns emerge in the donation process, (b) how these concerns manifest during and after the donor conversation, and (c) how clinicians respond to the concerns during the donor conversation.MethodsA qualitative embedded multiple-case study in eight Dutch hospitals was conducted. Thematic analysis was performed based on audio recordings and direct observations of 29 donor conversations and interviews with the family members involved (n = 24).ResultsConcerns clustered around six topics: 1) Life-event of a relative’s death, 2) Dying well, 3) Tensions and fears about donation, 4) Experiences of time, 5) Procedural clarity, and 6) Involving (non-)present family. Most concerns occurred in topics 1 and 2. Clinicians mostly responded to concerns by providing information or immediate solutions, while sometimes acknowledgement sufficed. When concerns were highly charged with emotion, the clinicians’ responses were less frequently attuned to families’ needs. Cues of less clearly articulated concerns gained less follow-up. Then, concerns often remained or reappeared.ConclusionThe identified concerns and the distinction between clearly and less clearly articulated concerns may prove valuable for clinicians to improve family support. We advise clinicians to engage with a curious, probing attitude to enhance the dialogue around concerns, elaborate on less clearly articulated concerns and identify the informational needs of the family.

Improving the integration of artificial intelligence into existing ecological inference workflows

Abstract Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionised the process of identifying species and individuals in audio recordings and camera trap images. However, despite developments in sensor technology, machine learning and statistical methods, a general AI‐assisted data‐to‐inference pipeline has yet to emerge. We argue that this is, in part, due to a lack of clarity around several decisions in existing workflows, including: the choice of classifier used (e.g. semi‐ vs. fully automated); how classifier confidence scores are used and interpreted; and the availability and selection of appropriate statistical methods for drawing ecological inferences. Here, we attempt to conceptualise a general workflow associated with automated tools in ecology. We motivate this perspective using our experiences with occupancy modelling using monitoring data collected through passive acoustic monitoring and camera trapping, identifying priority areas for future developments. We offer an accessible guide to support the ecological community in navigating and capitalising on rapid technological and methodological advances. We describe how different error types arise from both sensor‐based monitoring and from classifiers themselves; how different error types are handled at each stage of the workflow; and finally, implications and opportunities associated with deciding on methods used at each step of the pipeline. We recommend that ‘black box’ tools like neural network classification algorithms should be embraced in ecology, but widespread uptake requires more formal integration of AI into the existing ecological inference workflows. Like ecological AI more broadly, however, successful development of new data‐to‐inference pipelines is a multidisciplinary endeavour that requires input from everyone invested in collecting, processing, analysing and using ecological monitoring data.

INTERAÇÕES SOCIAIS PROMOVIDAS EM ATIVIDADES EXPERIMENTAIS DE QUÍMICA EM PEQUENOS GRUPOS COM UMA PESSOA SURDA E OUVINTES

With the increasing number of deaf people in Brazilian schools, educational activities in the area of Science Education that contemplate them become increasingly necessary. Therefore, this work aims to analyze the potentialities and limits of a proposal for experimental activities in small groups for the teaching and learning processes of Chemistry in high school in a context with deaf and hearing people. The proposal was developed in a class of the 3rd year of high school in a public school and had as research subjects students from a group formed by a deaf student and three hearing students. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to analyze the initial student understandings about the deaf person and a sequence of experimental Chemistry activities to identify the social interactions promoted in the group and their possible relationships with the initial student understandings. The obtaining of qualitative information related to the sequence of experimental activities occurred through audio and video recordings. All qualitative information was submitted to the procedures of discursive textual analysis. The results indicate that the proposal was able to promote, especially, collaborative and tutorial interactions in the group. In addition, the initial student understandings about the deaf person may have influenced the social interactions promoted in the group.

CLASSIC OF FOLK INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC IN THE WORKS OF ACADEMIC MUSICOLOGISTS

The relevance of studying the work of great kuyshi, classic of Kazakh instrumental musicKurmangazy Sagyrbayuly, whose name entered scientific circulation almost a hundred years ago, todayseems diminished. After the works of academician A.Zhubanov, musicologists P.Aravin, N.Tiftikidi,A.Mukhambetova, B.Baikadamov, S.Utegalieva, G.Omarova, R.Nesipbai, performers A.Akhmedyarov, A.oktagan, K.Sakharbaeva, M.Abugazy, historians I.Kenjalieva, M.Zholzhanov, folklorist A.Seidimbek, etc., itseems there is little left to study or publish. However, manuscripts and audio recordings in the M.O.AuezovInstitute of Literature and Art archives, articles in the press, and rare collections confirm the scientific andpractical importance of new research into Kurmangazy’s work. This study aims to introduce into scientificturnover materials from the Institute’s archives, articles published in periodicals, and rare collections,alongside unrealized ideas of scientists from the “Musicology” department of the M.O.Auezov Institute,who made significant contributions to studying Kurmangazy’s work. The article applies methods of sourceand comparative analysis of archival materials. The findings are significant for strengthening theoretical andapplied aspects of interdisciplinary sciences. The archival materials include manuscripts about Kurmangazyand his kuys, poems, statements, kuyshi memoirs, travel reports, audio recordings, alternative versions of kuys,and previously unpublished kuys from ethnographic expeditions. These, along with the findings of academicmusicologists, promoting the development of art history, enhance the authority and recognition of Kurmangazyand his kuys.

Oneiromancy – Divination through Dreams

Oneiromancy – Divination through Dreams by Buena Onda Collective (Dominika Ksel and Camila Morales) is an immersive, interactive animated project designed to empower the Far Rockaway, Queens community in the face of climate crisis and environmental injustice. Collaborating with local organizations like RISE and Shore Corps, as well as residents and CUNY students, the project engaged over 100 participants (ages 5-65+) in workshops to create drawings, 3D models, audio recordings, and animations that reflect personal histories, dreams, and ecological connections. Guided by questions about capitalism and rising tides, the collective envisioned alternative futures, blending fantasy, dystopia, and resilience. Using open-source software, AI, and stop-motion animation, these visions were transformed into immersive 360-degree experiences, accessible via mobile devices and QR codes across the Rockaway Peninsula. The 360 animations culminated in an interactive exploratorium built with Unity and Community Toolkit, showcasing the power of artistic collaboration and digital media in addressing socio-environmental challenges, and moving from scarcity to empowerment and abundance.

Virtual choir as a kind of digital musical art

The relevance of the article. The so-called virtual choirs remain very common in modern musical creativity. Their activities are studied in modern science in many aspects: historical, technical, socio-psychological, musicological, etc. However, there is a debate about whether such a form of artistic activity can be considered a type of choral performance. The purpose of the study is to clarify whether the phenomenon of “virtual choir” belongs to choral or digital art. The methodology. Structural, functional and comparative analysis were used to analyze the specifics of the work of real and virtual choirs. The article also uses the results of statistical data obtained by other researchers on the psychophysiological impact of singing in real and virtual groups on the well-being of choristers. An analysis of surveys on other issues was also carried out. The results. It was defined that a virtual choir fundamentally differs from a real one in its structure, which, in addition to performers and a conductor, also includes sound engineers and editors. Even in their actual absence, these functions are extremely important and, in fact, replace the conductor’s activity, because the final result depends much more on the sound engineer and editor than on the conductor’s personality. It was found out that the specifics of the creative process in a virtual choir do not include a significant number of specifically choral elements, namely the ensemble component (except for coincidence with the phonogram), response to the real process and the possibility of influencing it during performance. In addition, singing in a virtual project slows down the development of empathy of singers, reduces their ability to recognize the conductor’s gestures and facial expressions. The scientific novelty. For the first time, a reasoned answer has been received to the question of the possibility of classifying the so-called virtual choir as a type of choral performance. The practical significance. The results of the study can be used in courses on the history of choral art, the theory of choral performance, and in the practical activities of conductors and sound engineers. Conclusions. The creative and methodological content of the work of a virtual choir has more differences than similarities with the work of a real collective. According to surveys, choristers evaluate the experience of co-creation in a virtual project more negatively than singing in a “live” choir. A virtual choir does not require many purely choral skills to achieve a result (ensemble, tuning, responding to the conductor’s gesture and singing by colleagues in the part), but requires significant technical knowledge and skills (video and audio recording, editing, correction, etc.). Thus, virtual choir as a phenomenon of modern art is not so much a type of choral performance as its simulation, carried out using digital methods, and should be studied in accordance with its belonging to one of the types of digital art.

Verb-Verb Construction in Bugis Language: A Linguistic Typology Approach

This study examines the formation of serial verbs in the Bugis Bone language utilizing a qualitative descriptive approach and typological analysis. Data were collected by observation, including audio recordings of Bugis speakers’ direct talk, and supplemented by interviews for contextual comprehension. The assessment focused on language structures, and identifying patterns and distributions of lexemes and phrases. The results demonstrate that Bugis serial verbs align with the worldwide typology of serial verbs, consisting of four syntactic categories and six semantic categories: movement, directional, manner, cause-effect, comitative, modality, and aspect. This work is significant for its contribution to linguistic typology, providing insights into the universal elements of serial verb formations and the distinct qualities of the Bugis Bone language. The results have ramifications for the comprehensive understanding of Austronesian languages, establishing a basis for comparative analyses and contributing to the preservation of linguistic variety. Moreover, the study enhances understanding of the functioning of serial verb formulations within a particular linguistic and cultural framework, hence advancing theoretical knowledge in syntax and semantics. Future research may explore Bugis sentence forms through other theoretical frameworks to enhance the understanding of Bugis language typology.

“Vsaj En Stavek Povej Normally”: Anglicisms and Code-Switching in Slovene Youth Slang

The influence of the English language can be observed, to a greater or lesser extent, in virtually every world language, and is recognizable in language contact phenomena like borrowing and code-switching. To date, there has been limited research on the widespread use of English in the language of young speakers of Slovene, who encounter English on a daily basis both through education and entertainment. The present study aims to address this research gap by examining the linguistic behaviour of young adult native speakers of Slovene in their everyday informal communication. Drawing on methods of discourse analysis, we quantitatively and qualitatively analyse corpus data obtained through covert audio recording, exploring how the Slovene-English language contact manifests itself in everyday communication among young speakers of Slovene, with close attention paid to code-switching and anglicisms. The results of the study raise the question of language change and the future of languages like Slovene, whose speakers are in close contact with English every day, and suggest further research possibilities in the field of Slovene-English language contact.

MASALAH BACAAN BAHASA MELAYU MURID DISLEKSIA: PENGELASAN BERDASARKAN TEORI SINDROM DISLEKSIA LEVINSON

Dyslexia is a condition that causes individuals to experience difficulties in language skills, particularly in reading. This study focuses on the aspect of Phonological Dyslexia, which centers on extreme reading difficulties due to phonological impairments, specifically the ability to manipulate language. This research is a case study that employs qualitative methods for data analysis. The research methods used include literature review and observation techniques. The respondents consist of five dyslexic students aged between seven and 12 years from three primary schools in Perak. To gather data, this study utilizes three instruments: student feedback forms, dyslexia exercise books, and an audio recorder. Two short passages were taken from the dyslexia exercise book and given to the respondents to read. An audio recorder was used to record the reading of the dyslexic students. The reading errors made by the dyslexic students were analyzed based on the seven mechanisms found in Levinson's Dyslexia Syndrome Theory (1994). The results of the study showed that the errors made by the dyslexic students, based on the theory, include transposition, substitution, insertion, omission, reversal, condensation, and guessing. In terms of implications, this study is expected to contribute knowledge about the reading difficulties of dyslexic students based on Levinson's Dyslexia Syndrome Theory (1994).

Spatial Sound, Part 2: Exploring the Impact of Listening Room on Sound Character

The spatial sound character in a listening room is influenced by both the room acoustics and the sound reproduction system. These elements, either individually or in combination, can improve or reduce the sound quality. This study investigates the impact of room acoustics and electroacoustics on the sound character of popular mainstream music mixed in 7.1 and 7.1.4 formats. Fourteen skilled assessors evaluated the impact on envelopment, clarity, proximity, and preference. As one might expect, the results suggest that room reverberation improves envelopment and preference. Surprisingly, most assessors found that reverberation also brings clarity to the music. Conversely, dry acoustics were not considered preferable, nor did they improve the proximity for the majority of assessors. Adding overhead channels made punk and rock songs more enveloping but improved the preference only with the simple sound field of a ballad. Overall, the results can help improve spatial sound quality and make it easier for sound mixers to deliver consistent immersive sound experiences to listeners.

Spatial Sound, Part 1: Exploring the Impact of Listening Room on Perceptual Immersion

Room acoustics and sound reproduction systems shape the spatial sound character in a listening room, influencing sound quality. This study introduces a novel technique to assess the spatial character of room acoustics and sound reproduction systems, addressing a research gap in understanding spatial differences between listening environments. The technique was employed in a listening test where 15 assessors evaluated the impact of three listening rooms on perceptual immersion for music in 2.0 and 7.1 configurations using loudspeakers and binaural audio for headphones. The results indicate room reverberation enhances perceptual immersion, particularly with two-channel stereophonic setups. Surround speakers reduce room-induced effects when the music is mixed sufficiently enveloping, especially with distinct, nonreverberant surround elements. The results with headphones were similar but less pronounced. Assessors found the normal stereo tonally preferable to binaural conditions, but perceptions of immersiveness varied. Some described it as highly immersive, whereas others reported a lack of spatial depth, although it was perceived as supernaturally wide and effective compared with binaural sound. This highlights the challenge of transitioning from normal stereo to a spatialized mix in streaming services. Overall, the findings can enhance the immersive experience and even out perceptual differences between listening environments, including loudspeakers and headphones.

Unlocking engagement: A case study on digital games in mathematics instruction

ABSTRACT The use of digital games in mathematics education has sparked widespread interest because games have the potential to increase student engagement and make learning mathematics more appealing. Teachers frequently struggle with classroom management issues and are concerned that students will prioritize entertainment over authentic mathematical learning. This paper presents a study that employs a case study design to investigate how teacher incorporated digital game into mathematics lessons and the challenges that arise. Furthermore, the study looks into how students learn through digital games. Data were collected using lesson observations and audio recordings. The Theory of Didactical Situations (TDS) was used as a framework to analyze the actions of both the teacher and the students during the lesson. The findings indicate that TDS is effective in providing mathematics teachers with guidelines for structuring digital game-based learning. Furthermore, the findings revealed that the difficulties that students faced during gameplay did not have negative connotations but rather resulted in productive struggles. The students showed persistence by not giving up and eventually completing the required levels.

Scripture Engagement and Bible Translation Project Management: The Case of Bono-Twi Bible Translation Project

This article examined the intersection of scripture engagement and Bible translation project management. It explored various modes of scripture engagement, including literacy, local performing and visual arts, audio recordings, cell phones, and videos, and how these methods have evolved through different communication eras—from oral and manuscript to print and electronic. The paper identified key conditions for effective engagement, such as appropriate language, accessible translation, and the spiritual readiness of the community. It further investigated how the functionalist approach to translation can enhance scripture engagement by aligning translation strategies with the functional needs of target audiences. Through a comprehensive review of related literature, this research underscores the importance of integrating effective engagement practices into Bible translation project management to foster meaningful and accessible scripture use. In the process, the article makes reference to the ongoing Bono-Twi Bible Translation Project. The main argument is that integrating diverse methods of scripture engagement with a functionalist approach to translation management significantly improves the effectiveness and accessibility of Bible translation projects. The paper contributes to Bible Translation studies and translation management. Keywords: Scripture Engagement, Orality, Project Management

Do socio-cultural practices by elderly women influence obstetric complications? A study in Limpopo province.

Worldwide, women continue to die from obstetric-related complications, despite the global progress made to reduce maternal mortality. Elderly women play a key role in using their own socio-cultural practices during pregnancy and childbirth. The study aimed to explore the practices based on the beliefs of elderly women in Limpopo province. A qualitative approach using descriptive, explorative and contextual design was employed. Audio recording of unstructured focus group discussions was conducted of the elderly women who were purposively sampled. Data were analysed and coded using thematic analysis approach following Tesch's method and co-coded to ensure trustworthiness. Ethical considerations were also adhered to. The findings discuss practices based on beliefs of elderly women and the need for them to be trained to participate in maternal health practices. The study concluded that practices based on beliefs of elderly women lead to delays in seeking medical intervention. Therefore, elderly women need to be trained to reduce maternal mortality.Contribution:This study adds knowledge to the need for training and the importance of elderly women to be trained in order to reduce maternal mortality.

Exploring the Potentials of Unplugged Activities

This paper explores the use of unplugged activities as a pedagogical approach for teaching computational thinking (CT) to student teachers at a Danish university college in the subject technology comprehension. Through an analysis of three cases—a toothbrushing routine, a political profiling quiz, and an interactive story creation—the study examines students’ learning experiences and engagement with CT concepts and practices. The paper employs a methodological approach rooted in participatory observation and visual ethnography. Data collection includes video recordings, audio recordings, post-class interviews, and artefacts created by the students. The analysis reveals possibilities as well as challenges experienced by students in their involvement in computational thinking activities, including algorithms, decomposition, and abstraction. These findings contest the oversimplified classification of activities as either 'plugged' or 'unplugged', suggesting that alternative factors hold more substantial importance. Subsequently, the paper explores the roles of self-efficacy and ‘be-greifbarkeit’ in students' learning processes, thereby elucidating how students' motivation and learning expectations, in conjunction with their tangible experiences and conceptual understandings, influence the development of their computational thinking competencies. In conclusion, the study provides valuable insights for teacher educators, emphasising the need to consider the perceived complexity of the activity, including the students’ prerequisites for engaging with plugged and unplugged elements. It highlights the multifaceted nature of plugged and unplugged approaches, offering a nuanced perspective on their impact on students' learning experiences in the field of computational thinking.

Unanswered questions from abortion seekers: An application of the Research Prioritization by the Affected Community (RPAC) protocol in the Central Valley, California.

Despite protections offered in California, there is limited understanding of abortion access in underserved regions, including the Central Valley. Furthermore, there has been limited community involvement, especially from those directly affected, in the development of research priorities in abortion care. We utilized the Research Prioritization of Affected Communitiesprotocol to identify research priority topics and research questions for future abortion-related research. This project was designed and implemented through a partnership between a community-based reproductive justice organization and academic and community researchers. We recruited individuals ≥18 years old, English or Spanish speaking, who previously accessed abortion care in Central California. Over two Research Prioritization of Affected Communities sessions, participants shared uncertainties about the abortion care they received (session 1) and ranked their unanswered questions (session 2). The audio recording of sessions were transcribed and analyzed using rapid qualitative analysis to identify themes. Participants (n=7) raised 79 unique questions, 57 of which were deemed unanswered and categorized into 11 prioritized topics. Topics with the most questions included costs associated with care (n=9); the role of community; interactions with clinicians; and resources for patients (n=7 for each topic). Participants discussed challenging experiences, barriers, and the importance of social support when receiving abortion care. Using a community-centered approach, we identified topics and questions for future abortion-related research, to guide researchers and funders. Many questions raised by participants have already been answered in prior research, suggesting that implications of research are not clearly conveyed to those impacted the most. Using a community-centered approach, this study convened individuals who previously received abortion care in the Central Valley of California to identify key research priority topics and questions for future abortion-related research. The list of prioritized topics and questions is a guide for researchers, advocacy groups, and funders.