bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Consequences of Delayed Gastric Emptying With GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Tirzepatide
Authors: Jalleh Ryan J , Plummer Mark P , Marathe Chinmay S , Umapathysivam Mahesh M , Quast Daniel R , Rayner Christopher K , Jones Karen L , Wu Tongzhi , Horowitz Michael , Nauck Michael A
Published: October 2024

Context

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (RAs) are established therapeutics for type 2 diabetes and obesity. Among other mechanisms, they slow gastric emptying and motility of the small intestine. This helps to limit postprandial glycemic excursions and reduce chylomicron formation and triglyceride absorption. Conversely, motility effects may have detrimental consequences, eg, retained gastric contents at endoscopy or general anesthesia, potentially complicated by pulmonary aspiration or bowel obstruction.

Data Acquisition

We searched the PubMed database for studies involving GLP-1RA therapy and adverse gastrointestinal/biliary events.

Data Synthesis

Retained gastric contents at the time of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy are found more frequently with GLP-1 RAs but rarely are associated with pulmonary aspiration. Well-justified recommendations for the periprocedural management of GLP-1RAs (eg, whether to withhold these medications and for how long) are compromised by limited evidence. Important aspects to be considered are (1) their long half-lives, (2) the capacity of GLP-1 receptor agonism to slow gastric emptying even at physiological GLP-1 concentrations, (c) tachyphylaxis observed with prolonged treatment, and (d) the limited effect on gastric emptying in individuals with slow gastric emptying before initiating treatment. Little information is available on the influence of diabetes mellitus itself (ie, in the absence of GLP-1 RA treatment) on retained gastric contents and pulmonary aspiration.

Conclusion

Prolonged fasting periods regarding solid meal components, point-of-care ultrasound examination for retained gastric content, and the use of prokinetic medications like erythromycin may prove helpful and represent an important area needing further study to increase patient safety for those treated with GLP-1 RAs.
Predictive Power of the Fried Phenotype in Assessing Postoperative Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Craniotomy for Tumor Resection
Authors: Windermere Sonora Andromeda , Melnick Kaitlyn , Yan Sandra C. , Michel Michelot , Munoz Jonathan , Ebrahim Ghaidaa , Greene Hayden , Hey Grace , Chowdhury Muhammad Abdul Baker , Ghiaseddin Ashley P. , Mohamed Basma , Rahman Maryam
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Compared with the modified Frailty Index-11 (mFI-11) frailty tool, reflective of patient comorbidities, the Fried phenotype weighs functional patient variables. This study examined using the Fried phenotype in predicting postoperative outcomes in craniotomy for patients with tumor.

METHODS:

This retrospective cohort analysis included patients with Current Procedural Terminology codes for supratentorial/infratentorial tumor resections and preoperative frailty scores. Chart review collected the remaining variables for the primary outcome, length of stay (LOS), and secondary outcomes, discharge disposition and postoperative complications. Basic descriptive statistics summarized patient demographics, clinical parameters, and postoperative outcomes. χ2 tests, t-tests, and ANOVA examined associations and mean differences. Logistic and Poisson regressions explored predictor-outcome relationships.

RESULTS:

Over 7 years, these 153 patients underwent Fried assessments. The Fried score was biased toward females being more frail (nonfrail 38.0% female, prefrail 50.0% female and frail 65.6% female, P = .027) but not by age, body mass index, or tumor type. The mFI-11 was biased by age (nonfrail 67.8 years vs frail 72.3 years, P < .001) and body mass index (nonfrail 27.5 vs frail 30.8, P < .001) but not sex or tumor type. The Fried score was significantly correlated with increased LOS's (odds ratio [OR] = 5.92, 95% CI = 1.66-21.13, P < .001) but the mFI-11 was not (OR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.35-1.93, P = .64). The Fried phenotype was significantly correlated with discharge disposition location (P = .016), whereas the mFI-11 was not (P = .749). The Fried score was significantly correlated with postoperative complications (OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.08-1.71, P = .01), whereas the mFI-11 was not (OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 0.86-1.41, P = .44).

CONCLUSION:

The Fried phenotype more accurately correlates with postoperative outcomes including LOS, discharge disposition location, and complications than does the mFI-11 score. These findings can be used to guide preoperative planning, inform consent, and potentially identify patients who may benefit from functional optimization in the preoperative period to improve postoperative outcomes.
Anterior-posterior constraint on Hedgehog signaling by hhip in teleost fin elaboration
Authors: Tanaka Yoshitaka , Okayama Shun , Urakawa Kohei , Kudoh Hidehiro , Ansai Satoshi , Abe Gembu , Tamura Koji
Published: October 2024

Pectoral fins, the anterior paired fins in fish, have enhanced maneuvering abilities due to morphological changes. Teleosts have fewer radial bones in their pectoral fins than basal species, resulting in more-elaborate fins. The mechanism behind this radial constraint change in teleosts is unclear. Here, we found that mutations in hhip, which encodes an antagonist of Hedgehog signaling, led to an increase in radial bones in a localized region. Expression of the Shh genes, encoding ligands of Hedgehog signaling, coincided with notable hhip expression specifically during early development. We suggest that a negative feedback effect of Hedgehog signaling by hhip regulates the constraint of the pectoral fin in zebrafish. Additionally, re-analysis of hhip-related gene expression data in zebrafish and basal species revealed that the notable hhip expression during early development is a characteristic of zebrafish that is not observed in basal species. Region-specific expression of Hox13 genes in the zebrafish pectoral fin indicated that the median region, analogous to the region with abundant radials in basal species, is expanded in hhip−/− zebrafish. These data underscore potential morphological evolution through constrained diversity.
Planar cell polarity zebrafish models of congenital scoliosis reveal underlying defects in notochord morphogenesis
Authors: Wang Mingqin , Zhao Sen , Shi Chenjun , Guyot Marie-Claude , Liao Meijiang , Tauer Josephine T. , Willie Bettina M. , Cobetto Nikita , Aubin Carl-Éric , Küster-Schöck Elke , Drapeau Pierre , Zhang Jitao , Wu Nan , Kibar Zoha
Published: October 2024

Congenital scoliosis (CS) is a type of vertebral malformation for which the etiology remains elusive. The notochord is pivotal for vertebrae development, but its role in CS is still understudied. Here, we generated a zebrafish knockout of ptk7a, a planar cell polarity (PCP) gene that is essential for convergence and extension (C&E) of the notochord, and detected congenital scoliosis-like vertebral malformations (CVMs). Maternal zygotic ptk7a mutants displayed severe C&E defects of the notochord. Excessive apoptosis occurred in the malformed notochord, causing a significantly reduced number of vacuolated cells, and compromising the mechanical properties of the notochord. The latter manifested as a less-stiff extracellular matrix along with a significant reduction in the number of the caveolae and severely loosened intercellular junctions in the vacuolated region. These defects led to focal kinks, abnormal mineralization, and CVMs exclusively at the anterior spine. Loss of function of another PCP gene, vangl2, also revealed excessive apoptosis in the notochord associated with CVMs. This study suggests a new model for CS pathogenesis that is associated with defects in notochord C&E and highlights an essential role of PCP signaling in vertebrae development.
Assessment and the regulation of adaptive phenotypic plasticity
Authors: Hill Karl A. P. , Pfennig Karin S. , Pfennig David W.
Published: October 2024

Organisms can react to environmental variation by altering their phenotype, and such phenotypic plasticity is often adaptive. This plasticity contributes to the diversity of phenotypes across the tree of life. Generally, the production of these phenotypes must be preceded by assessment, where the individual acquires information about its environment and phenotype relative to that environment, and then determines if and how to respond with an alternative phenotype. The role of assessment in adaptive plasticity is, therefore, crucial. In this Review, we (1) highlight the need for explicitly considering the role of assessment in plasticity; (2) present two different models for how assessment and the facultative production of phenotypes are related; and (3) describe an overarching framework for how assessment evolves. In doing so, we articulate avenues of future work and suggest that explicitly considering the role of assessment in the evolution of plasticity is key to explaining how and when plasticity occurs. Moreover, we emphasize the need to understand the role of assessment in adaptive versus maladaptive plasticity, which is an issue that will become increasingly important in a rapidly changing world.
The role of fossils for reconstructing the evolution of plant development
Authors: Hetherington Alexander J.
Published: October 2024

Many of the developmental innovations that underpin the diversity of plant form alive today, such as those facilitating apical growth, branching, leaves, roots, wood and seeds, all evolved over 360 million years ago. Fossils, as our only direct record of plant form in the past, are thus essential for interpreting the origin and evolution of these innovations. The focus of this Spotlight is to showcase the rich plant fossil record open for developmental interpretation and to cement the role that fossils play at a time when increases in genome sequencing and new model species make tackling major questions in the area of plant evolution and development tractable for the first time.
Correlations of cognitive function with serum levels of homocysteine, sex hormone binding globulin, and leptin in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Xu Yunqiang , Qian Xiulian , Zhang Minqiao , Liang Ming
Published: October 2024

Objective: To investigate the correlations of cognitive function with serum levels of homocysteine (Hcy), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and leptin in patients with schizophrenia.
Methods: This was retrospective study. This study included 58 patients with schizophrenia (SCZ) as observation group and 60 clinically healthy individuals as control group admitted to Xiangshan County Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Medical and Health Group Third Hospital from March 2022 to June 2023. Serum levels of Hcy, SHBG, and leptin in the two groups were measured, and Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to investigate the correlations between the Hcy, SHBG, and leptin levels and the psychiatric symptoms and cognitive function in the observation group.
Results: The Hcy and SHBG levels in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p<0.05, respectively), and the leptin level was lower than that in the control group (p<0.05). The observation group scored significantly lower than the control group for each dimension of the MCCB (p<0.05, respectively). In the observation group, Hcy was positively correlated with negative symptoms and the PANSS total score (p<0.05, respectively) and was negatively correlated with scores for the leptin was negatively correlated with negative symptoms and the PANSS total score (p<0.05, respectively) and was positively correlated with scores for speed of processing (SOP), WMS-III, BVMT, and MSCEIT (p<0.05, respectively).
Conclusions: Increased levels of Hcy and SHBG and decreased leptin are strongly associated with the occurrence of cognitive impairment in SCZ cases. Therefore, clinical observation and monitoring of these markers can help identify changes in patient conditions.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.8923
How to cite this: Xu Y, Qian X, Zhang M, Liang M. Correlations of cognitive function with serum levels of homocysteine, sex hormone binding globulin, and leptin in patients with schizophrenia. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(10):2319-2323. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.8923
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Gamma knife radiosurgery clinical efficacy for brain stem glioma: The institutional experience
Authors: Kalhoro Aurangzeb , Ahmed Kashif , Hashim Abdul Sattar M.
Published: October 2024

Objective: In the past, brain stem was treated with surgery or placement of shunt in Pakistan. Gamma Knife surgery is currently an alternative to surgery for deep brain lesions. In the current study, we show the clinical experience of our Centre treated with Gamma Knife surgery.
Methods: This is a descriptive study conducted between February 2016 and October 2021. We had total 47 patients presented with focal brainstem gliomas which were selected for Gamma knife radiosurgery at the Neurospinal and Cancer Care Institute Karachi.
Results: Clinical Response was observed among them 20 (42.55%) patients improved, 22(46.80%) were stable, while 05 (10.63%) got worse The mean duration of symptoms was 31.9(SD10.5± 3months). Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) scores during Gamma knife radiosurgery were 90 in 24 patients (51%), 80 in 21 patients (44.6%), and 70 in two patients (4.2%). Four patients (10.6%) had received conventional radiotherapy before Gamma knife radiosurgery.
Conclusion: Among the diverse gliomas, their peril varies not just by type but also by their intricate location within the brain. The efficacy of gamma knife radiation is excellent particularly when tackling high-grade tumors, exhibiting its prowess in both adult and pediatric cases.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.9658
How to cite this: Kalhoro A, Ahmed K, Hashim ASM. Gamma knife radiosurgery clinical efficacy for brain stem glioma: The institutional experience. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(10):2176-2180. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.9658
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Clinical rationale for dietary lutein supplementation in long COVID and mRNA vaccine injury syndromes
Authors: Kyriakopoulos Anthony M , Nigh Greg , McCullough Peter A , Seneff Stephanie
Published: October 2024

Lutein, a plant-derived xanthophyl-carotenoid, is an exceptional antioxidant and anti-inflammatory constituent found in food. High dietary intake of lutein is beneficial against eye disease, improves cardiometabolic health, protects from neurodegenerative diseases, and is beneficial for liver, kidney, and respiratory health. Lutein protects against oxidative and nitrosative stress, both of which play a major role in long COVID and mRNA vaccination injury syndromes. Lutein is an important natural agent for therapeutic use against oxidative and nitrosative stress in chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. It can also potentially inhibit spike protein-induced inflammation. Rich dietary supplementation of lutein, naturally derived in non-biodegradable Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO), can most optimally be used against oxidative and nitrosative stress during post-COVID and mRNA vaccination injury syndromes. Due to its high oleic acid (OA) content, EVOO supports optimal absorption of dietary lutein. The main molecular pathways by which the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein induces pathology, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer activated B cells (NF-κB) and activated protein (AP)-1, can be suppressed by lutein. Synergy with other natural compounds for spike protein detoxification is likely.
Real Customization or Just Marketing: Are Customized Versions of Generative AI Useful?
Authors: Garrido-Merchán Eduardo C. , Arroyo-Barrigüete Jose Luis , Borrás-Pala Francisco , Escobar-Torres Leandro , Martínez de Ibarreta Carlos , Ortíz-Lozano Jose María , Rua-Vieites Antonio
Published: October 2024

Abstract Background Large Language Models (LLMs), as in the case of OpenAITM ChatGPT-4TM Turbo, are revolutionizing several industries, including higher education. In this context, LLMs can be personalised through customization process to meet the student demands on every particular subject, like statistics. Recently, OpenAI launched the possibility of customizing their model with a natural language web interface, enabling the creation of customised GPT versions deliberately conditioned to meet the demands of a specific task. Methods This preliminary research aims to assess the potential of the customised GPTs. After developing a Business Statistics Virtual Professor (BSVP), tailored for students at the Universidad Pontificia Comillas, its behaviour was evaluated and compared with that of ChatGPT-4 Turbo. Firstly, each professor collected 15-30 genuine student questions from “Statistics and Probability” and “Business Statistics” courses across seven degrees, primarily from second-year courses. These questions, often ambiguous and imprecise, were posed to ChatGPT-4 Turbo and BSVP, with their initial responses recorded without follow-ups. In the third stage, professors blindly evaluated the responses on a 0-10 scale, considering quality, depth, and personalization. Finally, a statistical comparison of the systems’ performance was conducted. Results The results lead to several conclusions. Firstly, a substantial modification in the style of communication was observed. Following the instructions it was trained with, BSVP responded in a more relatable and friendly tone, even incorporating a few minor jokes. Secondly, when explicitly asked for something like, “I would like to practice a programming exercise similar to those in R practice 4,” BSVP could provide a far superior response. Lastly, regarding overall performance, quality, depth, and alignment with the specific content of the course, no statistically significant differences were observed in the responses between BSVP and ChatGPT-4 Turbo. Conclusions It appears that customised assistants trained with prompts present advantages as virtual aids for students, yet they do not constitute a substantial improvement over ChatGPT-4 Turbo.
Assessment of early neonatal practices to prevent hypothermia ; A comparative study
Authors: GM Smrithi , Renganathan Gayathri , Motappa Rohith , Joseph Nitin , SR Ravikiran
Published: October 2024

Background Globally, neonatal deaths are significantly attributed to hypothermia. This is mostly because of its co-morbidity with asphyxia, premature birth and severe neonatal infections. Worldwide, neonatal hypothermia case fatality rates (CFRs) range from 8.5% to 52%. This study aimed to assess how well a video-based training intervention on mothers’ knowledge and practices in preventing neonatal hypothermia worked. Methods The knowledge and practices of two groups of primi-para mothers—one control group and one intervention group—were compared in order to achieve this. A total of 124 primipara mothers took part in the research. Using a video based tool, the intervention group was educated about preventing hypothermia in newborns. Both control and intervention group mothers were interviewed to compare the knowledge and practices. Results Sixty-one of the sixty-two mothers in the control group were unsure of which body area to cover in order to preserve the baby’s body heat. Following the intervention, 61 out of 62 mothers in the group recognised which body part to cover to protect the baby’s body heat. In the post-intervention group, 98.4% of moms wore a cap over their baby’s head, compared to just 35.5% in the control group. Conclusion The results of this study demonstrate the significant improvement in mothers’ knowledge and actions about the prevention of neonatal hypothermia resulting from the use of a video-based training tool.
Effects of aquatic and dry land physiotherapy on the functional capacity in individuals with and without parkinson's disease: a protocol study followed by a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Scalco Acco Fernanda , Fiori Bortoli Andressa , Frata Bruna , Borin Aita Jéssica Saccol , Ivaniski-Mello André , Souza Corrêa Philipe , de Castro Barroso Gustavo , Poltronieri dos Reis Aline , Escobar Azevedo Jean Lucaz , Gomes Martinez Flávia , Cechetti Fernanda
Published: October 2024

Background Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease (PD), particularly those with the rigid-akinetic with postural instability (RA) subtype, often experience motor symptoms that impair functionality and postural control. Physiotherapy interventions, including both dry land and aquatic therapies, can help manage PD treatment. This study aimed to develop and assess the effects of two exercise protocols emphasizing the extensor musculature of the vertebral column (dry land and shallow water) on functional capacity in individuals with and without RA-type PD. Methods The study utilized a protocol study followed by a randomized clinical trial, with the registry number NCT04863118, involving ten RA-type PD (intervention group) and ten individuals without PD (reference group). Participants underwent exercise protocols of varying intensity levels, and their pre and post-intervention functional capacity were evaluated using standardized tests. The applicability and safety of these protocols were assessed through a self-perception questionnaire. Results Significant improvements were observed in functional capacity parameters following both dry land and aquatic physiotherapy interventions among PD individuals, including increased repetitions in the Sit-to-Stand test and reduced completion time in the Timed Up and Go test. Similar positive outcomes were observed in individuals without PD, indicating the efficacy of these interventions irrespective of PD status. Conclusion A single session of physiotherapy, whether on dry land or in shallow water, focusing on the extensor musculature of the vertebral column, enhances functional capacity in PD and non-PD individuals alike. Furthermore, the protocols demonstrated safety, comfort, and acceptability, promoting treatment adherence and future recommendations. These findings support the implementation of these protocols in clinical practice, aiding therapists in enhancing rehabilitation outcomes while ensuring individual safety. Registration Name of registry: Acute Effects of Strength Training and High Intensity Training on Functional and Biochemical Measurements of Individuals With Parkinson’s Disease in Different Environments and Depths Registry number: NCT04863118 Registration date:, 09/02/2024 URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04863118.
A Case for Specific Education of Advanced Practice Providers in Allergy & Immunology: Results of a Gap Analysis and Targeted Needs Assessment
Authors: Bauer Maureen , Stickrath Chad , Atkins Dan
Published: October 2024

Introduction Advanced practice providers (APPs) are increasingly utilized throughout the health care system. At present there is no nationally sanctioned curriculum for APPs providing Allergy & Immunology (A&I) care. Methods A nationwide gap analysis and targeted needs assessment was conducted to examine the current level of education/training of APPs in A&I. Results At present, training in A&I in NP/PA school is quite limited. The formal education and clinical training APPs receive at practice sites varies significantly with most APPs feeling only somewhat comfortable providing A&I care upon completion of their training period. Conclusions Results of a nationwide gap analysis and targeted needs assessment identify the need for providing education specific for A&I to APPs practicing in this field.
Safefood4eu: An interdisciplinary approach on education for sustainable agri-food systems in Europe
Authors: Burgess Patrick , Mihalev Kiril , Yovchev Aleksandar , Schieber Andreas , Georgiev Georgi
Published: October 2024

Foods are complex products consisting of many ingredients of diverse origins. Along the food supply chains, food products are prone to spoilage and safety issues, which could give rise to different health-related concerns and outcomes. Furthermore, the existing highly centralised food systems generate substantial greenhouse gas emissions and food waste. In order to strengthen the sustainable decentralised "farm-to-fork" food chains, a mindset shift supported by relevant education and policy initiatives is highly required. The ERASMUS+ KA220 project SafeFood4EU was conceived with a crucial mission - to develop an interdisciplinary and innovative toolbox of higher education and lifelong learning courses that reflect various aspects of sustainable agri-food systems. The thematic areas discussed within the SafeFood4EU project have covered food safety and supply chain management, sustainable food systems and design, food production and quality of raw materials, food authenticity and analysis, and digital and soft skills. The main objectives have been to develop a distinctive content package and make it available to the students via an e-learning management system. The project's results, aimed at creating a pool of young and capable experts, can significantly impact future food security, thereby increasing awareness about the future challenges regarding food systems transition, dietary shift and the next generation's food security.
The pregnancy-associated secretome in malaria pathogenesis and immunity during gestation
Authors: Mwai Lucy , Adamba Paulus , Mordmüller Benjamin , Vatish Manu , Sadovsky Yoel , Gitaka Jesse , Kobia Francis M. , Kanoi Bernard N.
Published: October 2024

In pregnancy, fetal health, growth and development are dependent on normal placental development. However, the mechanisms that support maternal immune tolerance for the fetus, fetal nourishment, and pregnancy maintenance to term are not fully understood. Placental secretions into the intervillous space play a key role in shaping early placental function. In their entirety, they represent the pregnancy-associated secretome (PAS). PAS alterations have been associated with various complications such as fetal growth restriction, maternal anemia, and preterm birth. Placental malaria (PM), caused by the sequestration of Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes in the intervillous space, affects PAS composition. In this review, we explore how P. falciparum-induced changes of PAS may contribute to pathogenesis and immune dysregulation during pregnancy, as well as the possibilities of leveraging PAS components as biomarkers for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of PM.
Digital marketplaces in European research landscape: A systematic literature review
Authors: Nikoletos Georgios , Papoutsoglou Iordanis , Spanos Georgios , Nizamis Alexandros , Lalas Antonios , Votis Konstantinos , Tzovaras Dimitrios
Published: October 2024

The e-commerce and digital technologies growth, has led to the emergence of various electronic marketplaces having the ability to connect parties across geographical locations, thus offering convenience and flexibility. The European Union recognizes the prowess of digital marketplaces and for this reason, many EU-funded projects presented e-marketplaces in various sectors. For this reason, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) is proposed to summarize recent studies in the field, providing a comprehensive overview of specific business and technical characteristics, and extracting valuable insights. From the SLR, 26 primary studies have been extracted during 2013–2023. The analysis highlighted that there are five marketplace types in terms of market offerings, catering to multiple sectors of economy. Moreover, the emergence of the blockchain technology has led to the development of decentralized marketplaces, offering greater security, and transparency. This trend is also reflected by the results alongside with some useful outcomes regarding implementation technologies, interoperability and deployment. Finally, the results highlighted that the exploitation of these marketplace is an open issue.
Improved gene editing and fluorescent-protein tagging in Aspergillus nidulans using a Golden Gate-based CRISPR-Cas9 plasmid system
Authors: Modaffari Domenico , Finlayson Aimée , Miao Yuyang , Wallace Edward W. J. , Sawin Kenneth E.
Published: October 2024

CRISPR-Cas9 systems can be used for precise genome editing in filamentous fungi, including Aspergillus nidulans. However, current CRISPR-Cas9 systems for A. nidulans rely on relatively complex or multi-step cloning methods to build a plasmid expressing both Cas9 and an sgRNA targeting a genomic locus. In this study we improve on existing plasmid-based CRISPR-Cas9 systems for Aspergilli by creating an extremely simple-to-use CRISPR-Cas9 system for A. nidulans genome editing. In our system, a plasmid containing both Cas9 and an sgRNA is assembled in a one-step Golden Gate reaction. We demonstrate precise, scarless genome editing with nucleotide-level DNA substitutions, and we demonstrate markerless gene tagging by fusing fluorescent-protein coding sequences to the endogenous coding sequences of several A. nidulans genes. We also describe A. nidulans codon-adjusted versions of multiple recent-generation fluorescent proteins, which will be useful to the wider Aspergillus community.
pathogenesis of PANDAS syndrome – controversies and consequences – a literature review
Authors: Perenc Helena , Pędras Marek , Pasieka Karolina , Majka Karolina , Krawczyk Kornelia , Kosar Michał , Kosiorowska Paulina , Korzonek Urszula , Kupniewski Kuba
Published: October 2024

Introduction
Pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with Streptococcal infections is a controversial topic. There are contradictory reports about some aspects of its etiology and pathogenesis. The aim of this study is to examine the nuance in the studies about the pathogenesis of PANDAS and to form conclusions about the consequences of these controversies regarding the possible treatment of this condition.
Material and methods
A PubMed and Google Scholar search was performed with specific keywords.
Current state of knowledge
The understanding of PANDAS became different over time. It was described both as a distinct disease and as a part of a broader spectrum – PANS. Many researchers have observed have shown no significant temporal relationship between Group A Streptococcal infection and the occurrence of PANDAS, while others have noted a clear link between GAS infections and increased risk of developing neuropsychiatric disorders. Elevated antistreptococcal antibodies were also observed in children with PANDAS diagnosis. There were also cases of tic disorders and OCD symptoms related to infections with pathogens different than GAS. Many researchers postulate that molecular mimicry is the mechanism by which the neuroinflammation develops. Anti-GAS antibodies produced during infections seem to target antigens of basal ganglia causing their malfunction, which would be consistent with the clinical presentation of the disease and which was proven by diagnostic imaging. Treatment options seem to target the pathogenesis of PANDAS well; however, their effectiveness is not consistently proven in different studies.
Conclusions
Although much is known about the pathophysiology of PANDAS, the targeted treatment is often not enough and there are no therapeutic protocols for the disease.
role of sex hormones in physiological adaptation and athletic performance in women with hyperandrogenism: medical and ethical aspects
Authors: Kępczyńska Aleksandra , Górecki Kamil , Prokop Przemysław , Barszczewski Konrad , Korzonek Urszula
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Hyperandrogenism in women's sports is a topic that has been controversial for years and has been discussed and debated internationally. It concerns the participation of women with elevated testosterone levels in sports competitions, especially in disciplines where physical strength and performance are crucial. Gender categorization in sports has a biological basis and stems from significant physiological differences between men and women. 
The aim: To ensure fair competition and equal opportunities for all participants. 
Materials and methods: A systematic review explored the link between androgen levels and athletic performance improvement. Google Scholar and PubMed were  searched in polish and english language. 
Results: The issue of hyperandrogenism in sports often arises in the context of controlling the fairness of competition. Many researchers and sports activists argue that high levels of testosterone can give an unfair advantage, especially in sports requiring strength and speed. Therefore, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and other sports organizations have introduced limits on testosterone levels in women competing in certain sports. It is also worth noting that hyperandrogenism is not always due to doping or unfair practices. Often it is a physiological condition that can result from individual genetic characteristics. The approach to this issue requires consideration of both aspects of fair competition and the rights of athletes to compete without discrimination based on their natural physiological characteristics.
Significado de “lo más visto” en los diarios digitales andaluces.
Authors: Bezunartea Valencia Ofa , Rodríguez Rey Ana , Caro-González Francisco J.
Published: October 2024

Más de doscientos diarios digitales cubren en Andalucía una tarea crucial para la vida democrática proporcionando información relevante para la vida cotidiana, al mismo tiempo que fortalecen el sentido de comunidad. A los medios locales les corresponde ofrecer la información necesaria sobre salud, educación, servicios, seguridad, eventos, actividad política y administrativa. Un banco de datos con los 212 diarios digitales andaluces es uno de los resultados del estudio “La información periodística y el bienestar: análisis de la función social de la empresa periodística andaluza” centrado en la detección del compromiso social empresarial de los diarios y los índices de calidad periodística de las publicaciones. De los resultados del estudio, se pueden extraer además datos que muestren algunas de las respuestas de la ciudadanía y que inciden, por una parte, en el permanente debate sobre si los criterios de los periodistas sobre el interés noticioso coinciden con lo que despierta curiosidad en los lectores y, por otra, reflejen la perspectiva de la ciudadanía sobre la información local. Datos que pueden ser obtenidos gracias a que el sistema digital permite registrar qué número de lectores lee cada noticia, incluso el tiempo dedicado a cada artículo. Este estudio se centra en analizar las secciones de “Lo más leído” en los diarios locales digitales andaluces.
Hierarchical Multilabel Classification for Fine-Level Event Extraction from Aviation Accident Reports
Authors: Zhao Xinyu , Yan Hao , Liu Yongming
Published: October 2024

Large numbers of accident reports are recorded in the aviation domain, which greatly values improving aviation safety. To better use those reports, we must understand the most important events or impact factors according to the accident reports. However, the increasing number of accident reports requires large efforts from domain experts to label those reports. To make the labeling process more efficient, many researchers have started developing algorithms to automatically identify the underlying events from accident reports. This article argues that we can identify the events more accurately by leveraging the event taxonomy. More specifically, we consider the problem to be a hierarchical classification task, where we first identify the coarse-level information and then predict the fine-level information. We achieve this hierarchical classification process by incorporating a novel hierarchical attention module into the bidirectional encoder representations from transformers model. To further utilize the information from event taxonomy, we regularize the proposed model according to the relationship and distribution among labels. The effectiveness of our framework is evaluated using data collected by the National Transportation Safety Board. It has been shown that fine-level prediction accuracy is highly improved and that the regularization term can be beneficial to the rare event identification problem.

History: Kwok-Leung Tsui served as the senior editor for this article.

Funding: The research reported in this paper was supported by funds from NASA University Leadership Initiative program (Contract No. NNX17AJ86A, Project Officer: Dr. Anupa Bajwa, Principal Investigator: Dr. Yongming Liu) and NSF DMS 1830363.

Data Ethics & Reproducibility Note: The code capsule is available on Code Ocean at https://codeocean.com/capsule/9128124/tree/v1 and in the e-Companion to this article (available at https://doi.org/10.1287/ijds.2022.0032 ).
National Institute of Standard Technology Approach for Steganography Detection on WhatsApp Audio Files
Authors: Muhammad Abdul Haris , Mandar Gamaria
Published: October 2024

Audio steganography in instant messaging applications such as WhatsApp poses new challenges in the field of digital security, especially due to the ability to hide data in frequently used formats. This research examines the effectiveness of steganography detection on WhatsApp audio files by applying a method developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This approach was chosen due to its reputation in security testing standards, but its use in the context of audio steganography on instant messaging platforms has not been widely explored. The novelty of this research lies in the adaptation of the NIST method specifically for audio steganography analysis in WhatsApp, which includes testing against various compression and end-to-end encryption scenarios. The main findings of this research show that the NIST method successfully improves the accuracy of hidden message detection compared to conventional steganalysis techniques, especially under the condition of compressed audio files. In addition, this research also found that the integration of the NIST method enables more effective detection of steganographic data in encrypted audio files. These results confirm that the NIST method can be successfully adapted for instant messaging applications such as WhatsApp, making a significant contribution in the improvement of digital security. This research not only identifies weaknesses in existing steganography techniques, but also introduces a new framework for more accurate and efficient detection in encrypted environments.
Digital stabilization of an I/Q modulator in the carrier suppressed single-sideband mode for atom interferometry
Authors: Ullah Arif , Legge Samuel , Close John D. , Haine Simon A. , Thomas Ryan J.
Published: October 2024

We present an all-digital method for stabilizing the phase biases in an electro-optic I/Q modulator for carrier-suppressed single-sideband (CS-SSB) modulation. Using programmable logic on the Red Pitaya STEMlab 125-14 platform, we digitally generate and demodulate an auxiliary radio-frequency tone whose beat with the optical carrier probes the I/Q modulator’s phase imbalances. We implement a multiple-input, multiple-output integral feedback controller that accounts for unavoidable cross-couplings in the phase biases to lock the error signals at exactly zero, where optical power fluctuations have no impact on phase stability. We demonstrate >23dB suppression of the optical carrier relative to the desired sideband at +3.4GHz over a period of 15 h and over temperature variations of 20°C.
Polarization optical properties of suspended particles measurement in water by a polarized Scheimpflug lidar system
Authors: Li Ziwang , Zhang Hongwei , Dai Guangyao , Yin Bin , Liu Bingyi , Tang Junwu , Wu Songhua
Published: October 2024

The polarization optical properties of suspended particles in water play a pivotal role in numerical simulation or real water medium detection. Polarized multi-wavelength oceanic lidar provides an effective method for characterizing the size, shape, and concentration of suspended particles. In this paper, we present a concise and effective optical approach to measure the information in the polarization of the lidar signal with 0°, 45°, 90°, and 135° polarization angles of suspended particles by laboratory experiments based on polarized Scheimpflug lidar system. This work uses typical suspended particles with different sizes and shapes as tracer particles to analyze particulate polarization information. Experiments with spherical or irregular silicon dioxide particles show that these particles can be effectively distinguished by analyzing the polarization optical properties of the backward scattering light. The laboratory system can classify suspended particles and may serve as a shipborne oceanic lidar or be used with submersibles.
Hybrid topology optimization combining simulated annealing for designing unpolarized high-efficiency freeform metasurface in-coupler for augmented reality waveguide
Authors: Liang Haigang , Dong Siyu , Wei Zeyong , Wang Zhanshan , Cheng Xinbin
Published: October 2024

High-efficiency in-couplers with unpolarized responses are crucial for the performance of waveguide augmented reality displays. Freeform quasi-3D metasurfaces (FQ3DM), which integrate freeform metasurfaces with multilayer films, is one possible solution to achieve this. However, the performance of FQ3DM is limited by the lack of inverse design algorithms capable of optimizing its overall structure. In this work, we proposed a hybrid topology optimization combining simulated annealing (HTO-SA) algorithm that alternates between topology optimization and simulated annealing to find the global optimum for both the shape and thickness of FQ3DM. With the HTO-SA algorithm, we designed an unpolarized high-efficiency in-coupler that achieves an average efficiency of 90% across a 20° field-of-view for both transverse electric and transverse magnetic polarization. We envision that our proposed approach can be generalized to the design of high-performance diffractive optical devices.
Watt-level long-term stable ultra-narrow linewidth 1064 nm single-longitudinal-mode ring cavity fiber oscillator
Authors: Pan Hao , Liu Xiaobing , Liu Haowei , Yang Xiumei , Qian Cheng
Published: October 2024

This study presents a high-power, single-longitudinal-mode (SLM) fiber oscillator with a ring cavity design, operating at 1064 nm. Utilizing a double-cladding ytterbium-doped fiber as the gain medium, the system incorporates a fiber Bragg grating Fabry-Perot cavity and a dual coupler ring for step-by-step filtering to achieve SLM operation. With a pump power of 4.19 W, the oscillator delivered an output power of 1.01 W and narrowed the linewidth to 147 Hz, with the potential for further power increase. The oscillator demonstrated excellent longitudinal-mode stability, maintaining mode-hop-free operation for 8.7 hours after temperature stabilization. To the best of our knowledge, this work represents the longest duration of mode-hop-free operation and the narrowest laser linewidth achieved by a free-running ring-cavity SLM fiber oscillator at watt-level output powers.
High energy circular Pearcey beams generation using phase-only metasurfaces with complex function fitting method
Authors: Li Qifan , Feng Qiang , Xue Hao , He Sitong , Zhang Song , Han Jiaqi , Liu Haixia , Li Long
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we use electromagnetic metasurfaces for the first time to generate the circular Pearcey beam. A complex function fitting method is proposed for generating the circular Pearcey beam, which can improve electric field intensity at focusing location, resulting in a high energy circular Pearcey beam with an increase of 31.77% compared to the traditional Pearcey beam design. A slowly varying envelope is applied to describe the amplitude of the Pearcey function. Meanwhile, considering the oscillation property of the Pearcey function, an additional phase is added to its original phase. Furthermore, the double-phase hologram (DPH) method is developed to realize phase-only metasurface design. Four full wave electromagnetic simulations are finished, which prove the effectiveness of our proposed Pearcey function fitting method and phase-only metasurface design. Two 10 GHz transmissive metasurfaces were designed, fabricated, and experimented to further validate our design. This circular Pearcey beam design is useful in near field wireless communication, microwave wireless power transmission, and simultaneous wireless information and power transfer.
Determination of zooplankton absorption spectra and their potential contribution to ocean color
Authors: McCarry Cait L. , Basedow Sünnje L. , Davies Emlyn J. , Last Kim S. , McKee David
Published: October 2024

Zooplankton are keystone organisms that provide a critical link between primary production and higher-order predators in the marine food web, as well as facilitating the sequestration of carbon within the ocean. In this context, there is considerable interest in the detection of zooplankton swarms from satellite ocean color signals. However, for this to be possible, accurate inherent optical property characterization of key zooplankton groups is first required. In this study, spectral absorption properties of six epipelagic zooplankton groups have been measured using what we believe to be a novel serial addition technique carried out with a Point Source Integrating Cavity Absorption Meter. The measured absorption spectra were used to model the impact of each group on remote sensing reflectance signals and determine a concentration threshold that would generate a distinguishable signal from ocean color data. Results indicate that the spectral shape of absorption did not vary much between species, with most organisms showing a peak at around 480 nm, characteristic of the pigment astaxanthin. Conversely, the magnitude of absorption did vary considerably between species, with larger organisms typically producing stronger absorption signals than smaller species. Thus, detection thresholds also varied for each group measured and were additionally influenced by background constituents within the water column. The calculated concentration thresholds indicate the feasibility of identifying zooplankton from ocean color, but owing to the spectral similarity in absorption properties, knowledge of in situ populations would be required to determine species abundances from satellite signals.
SSBI counteraction technology in a single photodetector-based direct detection system receiving an independent dual-single sideband signal
Authors: Hu Zheng , Xiao Jiangnan , Chen Yilin , Zhao Jiabao , Li Feihan , Zhu Hangzhi
Published: October 2024

To further meet the large capacity, high spectrum efficiency (SE), reduce the signal-signal beat interference (SSBI) of the independent dual single sideband (ISB) system and the complexity of the receiver, we propose an iterative signal-signal beat interference counteraction (ISSBIC) algorithm to suppress SSBI. The 16-Gbps left sideband and the 16-Gbps right sideband signals in the ISB system are quadrature phase-shift keying (QPSK) modulated. After standard single-mode fiber (SSMF) transmission, the LSB and RSB signals are synthesized to a 16-quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) signal after conversion through the photodetector (PD) square law. The simulation results show that the ISSBIC with just 2 iterations is superior to Kramers–Kronig (KK) receiver in processing the system error bit. In the meantime, the ISSBIC requires a sampling rate of 20GSa/s, whereas KK requires 40GSa/s. Moreover, the proposed ISSBIC algorithm has a simpler complexity. According to the simulation results, the suggested ISSBIC receiver can lower the ADC requirements and system costs, which opens up a wide range of applications in multiplex and higher SE transmission systems.