bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Standard Diagnostic Assessment reliability in psychiatry: A study in a Brazilian outpatient setting using Kappa
Authors: Rocha Neto H. , Telles-Correia D. , Koiller L. , Cavalcanti M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The use of Structured Diagnostic Assessments (SDAs) is a solution for unreliability in psychiatry and the gold standard for diagnosis. However, except for studies between the 50s and 70s, reliability without the use of Non-SDAs (NSDA) is seldom tested, especially in non-Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic (WEIRD) countries.

Objectives

We aim to measure reliability between examiners with NSDAs for psychiatric disorders.

Methods

We compared diagnostic agreement after clinician change, in an outpatient academic setting. We used inter-rater Kappa measuring 8 diagnostic groups: Depression (DD: F32, F33), Anxiety Related Disorders (ARD: F40–F49, F50–F59), Personality Disorders (PD: F60–F69), Bipolar Disorder (BD: F30, F31, F34.0, F38.1), Organic Mental Disorders (Org: F00–F09), Neurodevelopment Disorders (ND: F70–F99) and Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (SE: F20–F29) (Check table 1 about diagnosis hyerarchy and observed frequency in sample). Cohen’s Kappa measured agreement between groups, and Baphkar’s test assessed if any diagnostic group have a higher tendency to change after a new diagnostic assessment. This research was approved by IPUB’s ethical committee, registered under the CAAE33603220.1.0000.5263, and the UTN-U1111-1260-1212.

Results

We analyzed 739 reevaluation pairs, from 99 subjects who attended IPUB’s outpatient clinic. Overall inter-rater Kappa was moderate, and none of the groups had a different tendency to change (Check table 2 for diagnostic change distribution). Our tests achieved the followinf results: Cohen Kappa 0.70, IC: 0.66– 0.74; Weighted Kappa 0.72, IC:0.72 – 0.72; Bhapkar Test X² = 5.98, Df = 7, P-value = .55; Achieved Power (w=0.1): 0.93
Table 2

Agreement between examiners for eight diagnostic groups

ARDBDDDDRDNDOrganicPDSSDARD393902033BD11547322410DD9107100259DRD02040002ND121051116Organic010032005PD421100333SSD520112854192

Conclusions

NSDA evaluation was moderately reliable, but the lack of some prevalent hypothesis inside the pairs raised concerns about NSDA sensitivity to some diagnoses. Diagnostic momentum bias (that is, a tendency to keep the last diagnosis observed) may have inflated the observed agreement.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
The role of the community in providing psychological and social support after catastrophic events
Authors: Mužinić Marinić L. , Marinić I.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Natural disasters are a risk for significantly disrupting the quality of life as a result of changes in life circumstances they bring, such as endangering health, property, existential issues, and can lead to social exclusion. They can also affect mental health and increase the risk of developing psychiatric disorders.

Objectives

To show the impact of natural disasters on the psychosocial functioning of people in the affected area and the importance of adequate preparedness of the social community, including mobile teams, with an emphasis on providing somatic, psychological, and social support.

Methods

Data were collected from research on the consequences of major natural disasters and providing psychological, psychiatric and social support to the affected population.

Results

After natural disasters, there are significant changes in social functioning with the possible development of mental health problems. It is especially evident in sudden and intense catastrophic events.

Conclusions

In addition to the immediate provision of psychiatric and psychological assistance to victims, people who have experienced a catastrophic event need to be provided with immediate and continuous assistance and socioeconomic support, due to the need for better social inclusion and return to their role in the community.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Addressing the Comorbidity Between Epilepsy and Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Abu Shehab A. H. I. , Simona T. , Ion U. , Voinescu D. C. , Buciu C.-F. , Ciubară A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The intricate and multifaceted nature of the link between epilepsy and psychiatric diseases is evident. Patients diagnosed with epilepsy frequently exhibit concurrent psychiatric illnesses, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, psychosis, and attention-deficit disorders. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental mechanisms and implementing efficacious ways to effectively address this co-occurring medical condition is crucial in order to achieve the most advantageous results for patients.

Objectives

The objective of this study is to examine the frequency, neurobiological bases, and consequences for treatment of psychiatric comorbidities in patients diagnosed with epilepsy. The study aims to offer a thorough understanding of the subject and promote interdisciplinary collaboration.

Methods

A systematic review of literature was conducted, focusing on clinical studies, neuroimaging findings, and neurochemical changes in patients with both epilepsy and psychiatric disorders. Additionally, best-practice recommendations for the clinical management of this patient population were identified.

Results

The results suggest that the coexistence of epilepsy and psychiatric diseases may be affected by neuroinflammation, abnormalities in neurotransmitters, and shared genetic factors. In addition, the implementation of integrated therapy techniques that include both neurological and psychological components has demonstrated encouraging findings in enhancing patient outcomes.

Conclusions

The identification and proficient management of psychiatric comorbidities in individuals with epilepsy are of utmost significance. The establishment of interdisciplinary collaboration between neurologists and psychiatrists, supported by continuous research, is necessary in order to provide comprehensive treatment and enhance the overall well-being of individuals affected by these conditions.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Thyroid dysfunction: an unlikely culprit behind psychotic symptoms
Authors: Pires A. S. , Pires M. , Vaz I. F. , Mouta S. , Jesus B. , Mendes J. C. , Castro S. , Cruz e Sousa D.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

A number of studies have demonstrated that hyperthyroidism increases the prevalence of psychiatric disorders and the likelihood of depressive symptoms, anxiety and hipomania. Apathetic hyperthyroidism is a syndrome, which presents with symptoms of depression, apathy, somnolence or pseudodementia in the absence of the usual symptoms and signs of hyperthyroidism. This condition is more common in the elderly although it has also been described in young adults and adolescents.

In the majority of cases, treatment of hyperthyroidism results in an improvement in neuropsychiatric manifestations in parallel with an improvement of psychical (somatic?) symptoms and psychotropic medication is deemed unnecessary.

Approximately one-third of patients with Graves’ hyperthyroidism are prescribed psychotropic drugs. Sometimes to treat mental symptoms like psychosis or severe agitation, sometimes to treat mental symptoms remaining after amelioration of hyperthyroidism, and sometimes when the diagnosis of Graves’ hyperthyroidism has been missed and the patient is treated as having a primary psychiatric disorder.

Objectives

To present a case of a patient with neuropsychiatric symptoms caused by thyroid dysfunction.

Methods

Case presentation and non-systematic review of existing literature on Pubmed using the following keywords: hyperthyroidism, psychiatric disorders, psychiatric symptoms, depression, psychosis.

Results

We report the case of a 21-year-old female without history of psychiatric illness who presented to the emergency department with somnolence, apathy, cognitive impairment (answering “I don’t know” to most questions), poverty of speech, abulia, perplexity and delusional belief of ruin, in addition to physical symptoms namely alopecia and weight loss. According to her father, she was very active and dynamic person until two days prior, when he started noticing growing apathy, leading to job absenteeism. Urine analysis for elicit drugs was negative.

Investigation for organic disease was undertaken and the blood analysis revealed overt hyperthyroidism.

She was initially treated with aripiprazol. After thyroid dysfunction was identified, she was evaluated by an endocrinologist and started treatment with tiamazol and propanolol, presenting gradual remission of the psychiatric changes. Aripiprazole was discontinued and she was reevaluated in psychiatry consultation after about a month, with complete remission of psychiatric manifestations and normalized thyroid function.

Conclusions

Neuropsychiatric manifestations of thyroid dysfunction are often misdiagnosed as a primary psychiatric disorder. It is necessary to optimize the medical management of these patients in whom the psychiatric symptoms masks a curable organic cause.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Total free-free Gaunt factors prediction using machine learning models
Authors: Zenkhri D. E. , Benkrane A. , Meftah M. T.
Published: August 2024

Gaunt factors are fundamental in describing the interaction of free electrons with photons, playing a crucial role in astrophysical processes such as radiation transport and emission spectra. Traditional methods for computing Gaunt factors involve complex integrations and intricate mathematical formulations, often being computationally expensive and time-consuming. This study explores an alternative approach using machine learning models to predict free-free Gaunt factors. Three models were employed: Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Support Vector Regression (SVR), and Gradient Boosting Regression (GBR). The obtained results demonstrate high performance, with R
2 scores ranging from 0.98 to 0.99, indicating the potential of machine learning models to accurately predict Gaunt factors.
Iron Status Correlates Strongly to Insulin Resistance Among US Adults: A Nationwide Population-Based Study
Authors: Liu Xue , Zhang Yuhao , Chai Yuwei , Li Yuchen , Yuan Jie , Zhang Li , Zhang Haiqing
Published: August 2024

Context

Evidence on the link between iron status markers and insulin resistance (IR) is limited.

Objective

We aimed to explore the relationship between iron status and IR among US adults.

Methods

This study involved 2993 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003-2006, 2017-2020. IR is characterized by a homeostatic model assessment (HOMA)-IR value of ≥2.5. Weighted linear and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to examine the linear relationships between iron status and IR. Furthermore, restricted cubic splines (RCS) were used to identify the nonlinear dose–response associations. Stratified analyses by age, sex, body mass index, and physical activity were also performed. Last, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the predictive value of iron status in IR.

Results

In weighted linear analyses, serum iron (SI) exhibited a negative correlation with HOMA-IR (β −0.03, 95% CI −0.05, −0.01, P = .01). In weighted multivariate logistic analyses, iron intake and the serum transferrin receptor (sTfR) were positively correlated with IR (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.00-1.04, P = .04; OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.02-1.13, P = .01). Also, SI and transferrin saturation (TSAT) were negatively correlated with IR (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.94-0.98, P < .0001; OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.97-0.99, P < .001) after adjusting for confounding factors. RCS depicted a nonlinear dose–response relationship between sTfR and TSAT and IR. This correlation remained consistent across various population subgroups. The ROC curve showed that TSAT performed better than iron intake, SI and sTfR in ROC analyses for IR prediction.

Conclusion

All biomarkers demonstrated significantly lower risk of IR with increasing iron levels, which will contribute to a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the relationship between the 2 and provide a solid foundation for future exploration of the mechanisms underlying their relationship.
Daughter, Mother, Grandmother, and Whore
Authors: Leite Gabriela , Weeks Meg
Published: August 2024

In the early 1970s, while living at home with her conservative middle-class family and studying at the University of São Paulo, Gabriela Leite decided to become a sex worker. From her first client in a tiny room in downtown São Paulo to the launch of an exuberant clothing line designed for sex workers in Rio de Janeiro thirty years later, Daughter, Mother, Grandmother, and Whore tells the fascinating story of Leite’s bold and unique life in her own words. After helping to organize Brazil’s first protests by sex workers against police brutality, she moved to Rio de Janeiro, where she quickly became ensconced in the city’s storied red-light district. From there, Leite built a national network of politicized sex workers, worked for HIV/AIDS prevention, and participated in Brazil’s robust new civil society after its return to democracy in 1985 following a twenty-one-year military dictatorship. Insistent on advocating for the sex worker’s comprehensive human rights, Leite pioneered an irreverent grassroots Latin American feminism, which critiqued moral hypocrisies and Christian conservatism while affirming pleasure, joy, and agency. Daughter, Mother, Grandmother, and Whore also includes a foreword by artist and activist Carol Leigh.
A deleterious variant of INTS1 leads to disrupted sleep–wake cycles
Authors: Confino Shir , Wexler Yair , Medvetzky Adar , Elazary Yotam , Ben-Moshe Zohar , Reiter Joel , Dor Talya , Edvardson Simon , Prag Gali , Harel Tamar , Gothilf Yoav
Published: August 2024

Sleep disturbances are common among children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we report a syndrome characterized by prenatal microcephaly, intellectual disability and severe disruption of sleep–wake cycles in a consanguineous family. Exome sequencing revealed homozygous variants (c.5224G>A and c.6506G>T) leading to the missense mutations E1742K and G2169V in integrator complex subunit 1 (INTS1), the core subunit of the Integrator complex. Conservation and structural analyses suggest that G2169V has a minor impact on the structure and function of the complex, while E1742K significantly alters a negatively charged conserved patch on the surface of the protein. The severe sleep–wake cycles disruption in human carriers highlights a new aspect of Integrator complex impairment. To further study INTS1 pathogenicity, we generated Ints1-deficient zebrafish lines. Mutant zebrafish larvae displayed abnormal circadian rhythms of locomotor activity and sleep, as is the case with the affected humans. Furthermore, Ints1-deficent larvae exhibited elevated levels of dopamine β-hydroxylase (dbh) mRNA in the locus coeruleus, a wakefulness-inducing brainstem center. Altogether, these findings suggest a significant, likely indirect, effect of INTS1 and the Integrator complex on maintaining circadian rhythms of locomotor activity and sleep homeostasis across vertebrates.
A Compensatory Role of Physical Activity in the Association Between Sleep and Cognition
Authors: Sewell Kelsey R. , Collins Audrey M. , Mellow Maddison L. , Falck Ryan S. , Brown Belinda M. , Smith Ashleigh E. , Erickson Kirk I.
Published: August 2024

We synthesize evidence investigating the hypothesis that greater engagement in physical activity (PA) may compensate for some of the negative cognitive consequences associated with poor sleep in older adults. Potential mechanistic pathways include glymphatic clearance, influences on depression, and other comorbidities. The evidence base is largely cross-sectional and observational, and further experimental studies are required.
A reference genome, mitochondrial genome and associated transcriptomes for the critically endangered swift parrot (Lathamus discolor)
Authors: Silver Luke W. , Stojanovic Dejan , Farquharson Katherine A. , Alexander Lauren , Peel Emma , Belov Katherine , Hogg Carolyn J.
Published: August 2024

Abstract* The swift parrot (Lathamus discolor) is a Critically Endangered migratory parrot that breeds in Tasmania and winters on the Australian mainland. Here we provide a reference genome assembly for the swift parrot. We sequence PacBio HiFi reads to create a high-quality reference assembly and identify a complete mitochondrial sequence. We also generate a reference transcriptome from five organs to inform genome annotation. The genome was 1.24 Gb in length and consisted of 847 contigs with a contig N50 of 18.97 Gb and L50 of 20 contigs. This study provides an annotated reference assembly and transcriptomic resources for the swift parrot to assist in future conservation genomic research.
Unraveling the genetic basis of antibiotic resistance in Staphylococcus aureus: Focus on mecA and PVL Genes
Authors: Nguyen-Thi Be-Hai , Pham-Thi Ngoc-Nga , Nguyen-Thi Hai-Yen , Nguyen Long-Nguyen , Le Trung-Son
Published: August 2024

Background Staphylococcus aureus infections, including Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and Methicillin-Sensitive S. aureus (MSSA), present significant challenges in healthcare due to rising antimicrobial resistance. This study evaluates the genetic basis of antibiotic resistance in S. aureus, focusing on key resistance-associated genes mecA and PVL. Methods A total of 568 clinical specimens were analyzed for the presence of S. aureus. Demographic data were collected to assess age-dependent prevalence. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted to evaluate resistance patterns. The prevalence of the mecA and PVL genes was determined using molecular techniques. Results S. aureus was identified in 37.9% of cases, with the highest prevalence (60-79 age group). All S. aureus isolates showed 100% resistance to penicillin. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains accounted for 84.19% of isolates, with a significant presence of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strains. The mecA gene was prevalent in 82.79% of MRSA isolates, indicating its strong association with methicillin resistance. Additionally, 41.86% of all S. aureus isolates were positive for the PVL gene, highlighting its widespread distribution. Conclusions The high prevalence of mecA and PVL genes in S. aureus strains underscores the challenges in managing these infections. These findings emphasize the necessity for judicious antibiotic use and enhanced collaborative efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance. Understanding the genetic basis of resistance can inform more effective diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes in S. aureus infections.
Case Report: Sclerosing lymphocytic lobulitis of the breast: case report and literature review
Authors: Magdoud Khaoula , Bayar Sirine , Arifi Nejla , Menjli Sana , Hmid Rim Ben
Published: August 2024

Sclerosing lymphocytic lobulitis, also known as diabetic mastopathy, is a rare and benign pathology predominantly observed in young women with type I diabetes, typically with degenerative complications. Clinically, the lesion can mimic carcinoma. Biopsy remains the gold standard for a definitive diagnosis. Radical surgery is generally unnecessary when histological verification can be achievedusing core needle biopsy. This case report details the clinical and radiological findings, as well as the management of a 33-year-old patient with a 22-year history of type I diabetes who presented with sclerosing lymphocytic lobulitis.
Code and Data Repository for Decision Diagram-Based Branch-and-Bound with Caching for Dominance and Suboptimality Detection
Authors: Coppé Vianney , Gillard Xavier , Schaus Pierre
Published: August 2024

The goal of this software is to demonstrate the effect of caching inside a generic decision diagram-based branch-and-bound solver. We started from a version of the DDO solver, written by xgillard and implemented new cache-based pruning techniques in src/mdd/with_barrier.rs and src/solver/barrier.rs.
Ballenas jorobadas desde la comodidad de la playa
Authors: Monroy-Gamboa Alina Gabriela , Hernández-Adame Luis
Published: August 2024

El avistamiento de ballenas es una actividad recreativa que se realiza en diversas localidades de México. En el estado de Baja California Sur, hay lugares donde puede hacerse sin necesidad de una embarcación, son visibles desde la comodidad de la playa.
Highlighting the latest research: August 2024
Authors: Bernhardt Lizelle , Thomas Ashley
Published: August 2024

The authors provide a synopsis and brief review of a selection of recently published research articles that are of interest to cardiovascular nurses, highlighting key points and clinical implications. A full reference is provided for those who wish to read the research in more detail.
An exploration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation discussions with ethnically diverse patients and their families
Authors: Islam Zoebia , Pollock Kristian , Patterson Anne , Hanjari Matilda , Faull Christina
Published: August 2024

Background/Aims

Little is known about how current UK policy for end-of-life care planning fits with the social, cultural and religious values and beliefs of ethnic minority communities. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of patients and family caregivers from ethnically diverse backgrounds, as well as the views of health professionals, regarding end-of-life care planning, including discussions about cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted, including comparative thematic and cross-case analysis from 18 longitudinal patient case studies and 19 interviews with bereaved family members. A total of 112 interviews were conducted across patients, family caregivers and health professionals. Topics included experiences of talking about illness, discussions about choices and decisions about future care, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation decision making.

Results

Health professionals sought to identify when patients were ‘ready’ for end-of-life care discussions before initiating these conversations. However, little clarity was given around the characteristics that constituted this readiness by any of the health professionals. Issues around translation, such as mistranslation, confidentiality issues with external translators and the potential for family caregivers to misconstrue information in translation were also highlighted. Religious and cultural beliefs played significant roles in patients' do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation decisions, with anxieties around whether the system adequately valued these beliefs.

Conclusions

Health professionals played a significant role in seeking an agreement on do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Participants' accounts of the discussions highlight the importance of insightful professional recognition of ‘readiness’ to broach the topic, as well as a good knowledge of family dynamics. It also raises concerns about the risk of the patient's voice being unduly influenced by health professionals and/or family caregivers, especially in cases where an interpreter is required to mediate communication.
Dominated binary phase distribution governed by information theory in noisy scattering systems
Authors: Gou Xiaoyun , Li Wenkang , He Wenjing , Zhang Hong , Li Wenxue , Pang Lin
Published: August 2024

Optical phase with continuously distributed values is always expected to exhibit higher efficiency in the diffraction dominated operation. However, in noisy scattering systems, this assertion does not hold. We found that the optimized optical phase distribution forming the focus behind the scattering media tends to exhibit a binary configuration. We show that this is the direct corollary of the Shannon theorem when applied to the scattering process. The binary distribution holds the advantage of speeding up the optimization processing, which might make it possible to image through dynamic scattering media such as biological images.
Portable, smartphone-linked, and miniaturized photonic resonator absorption microscope (PRAM Mini) for point-of-care diagnostics
Authors: Khemtonglang Kodchakorn , Liu Weinan , Lee Hankeun , Wang Weijing , Li Siyan , Li Zhao Yuan , Shepherd Skye , Yang Yihong , Diel Diego G. , Fang Ying , Cunningham Brian T.
Published: August 2024

We report the design, development, and characterization of a miniaturized version of the photonic resonator absorption microscope (PRAM Mini), whose cost, size, and functionality are compatible with point-of-care (POC) diagnostic assay applications. Compared to previously reported versions of the PRAM instrument, the PRAM Mini components are integrated within an optical framework comprised of an acrylic breadboard and plastic alignment fixtures. The instrument incorporates a Raspberry Pi microprocessor and Bluetooth communication circuit board for wireless control and data connection to a linked smartphone. PRAM takes advantage of enhanced optical absorption of ∼80 nm diameter gold nanoparticles (AuNP) whose localized surface plasmon resonance overlaps with the ∼625 nm resonant reflection wavelength of a photonic crystal (PC) surface. When illuminated with wide-field low-intensity collimated light from a ∼617 nm wavelength red LED, each AuNP linked to the PC surface results in locally reduced reflection intensity, which is visualized by observing dark spots in the PC-reflected image with an inexpensive CMOS image sensor. Each AuNP in the image field of view can be easily counted with digital resolution. We report upon the selection of optical/electronic components, image processing algorithm, and contrast achieved for single AuNP detection. The instrument is operated via a wireless connection to a linked mobile device using a custom-developed software application that runs on an Android smartphone. As a representative POC application, we used the PRAM Mini as the detection instrument for an assay that measures the presence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 infection in cat serum samples, where each dark spot in the image represents a complex between one immobilized viral antigen, one antibody molecule, and one AuNP tag. With dimensions of 23 × 21 × 10 cm3, the PRAM Mini offers a compact detection instrument for POC diagnostics.
Linearized wavefront sensing model for aberration retrieval from low-frequency Fourier coefficients
Authors: Zhou Zhisheng , Zhang Jingang , Fu Qiang , Nie Yunfeng
Published: August 2024

This paper proposes and demonstrates a linearized model for phase diversity wavefront sensing, facilitating real-time processing and much less data required for training. Specifically, we find that the low-frequency Fourier coefficients of point spread function images are linearly proportional to pupil aberration coefficients under certain conditions. Simulation and experimental results show that the model can greatly reduce the processing time to several milliseconds by merely requiring hundreds of training samples while maintaining a comparatively high accuracy with state-of-the-art methods.
Atmospheric continuous-variable quantum secure direct communication with orbital angular momentum multiplexing
Authors: Cao Zhengwen , Liang Zhangtao , Zhang Yujie , Wang Lei , Chen Xinlei , Chai Geng
Published: August 2024

Quantum secure direct communication (QSDC) with the feature of allowing secret messages to be communicated directly over quantum channels has two approaches including discrete variable and continuous variable (CV). Among of them, the CVQSDC system indicates the advantages of high secrecy capacity and low experimental cost. As the number of eigenstates is unbounded, the orbital angular momentum (OAM) is an efficient method to increase the secrecy capacity in a CVQSDC system. However, OAM is very vulnerable to atmospheric turbulence, resulting in a phase distortion quantum state. In this work, we propose a CVQSDC protocol with OAM multiplexing, and reveal how the channel parameters, especially transmittance and excess noise, are influenced by atmospheric effects through the simulation experiment. On this basis, the security of the system is further analyzed and the secrecy capacity calculated. The results indicated that the increase in turbulence intensity leads to enhanced crosstalk between the OAM angular modes, which in turn leads to a decrease in the effective transmittance and an increase in the excess noise. Meanwhile, the results also showed that the secrecy capacity decreases with the increase of transmission distance, atmospheric turbulence intensity, and angular mode; in addition, OAM multiplexing can obtain more secrecy capacity compared with a single link.
Universal all-optical zero-bias logic gates in silicon photonics
Authors: Idres Samer , Habif Jonathan L. , Hashemi Hossein
Published: August 2024

Universal all-optical (optical input – optical output) logic gates, realized in a commercial foundry silicon photonics process, are reported. Microring resonator modulator and zero-biased stacked photodiodes are used to create the required optical input-output nonlinear transfer function for optical gate realizations. Several logic gate functions, specifically NOR which is a universal logic gate that can be used to implement any logic, are demonstrated. Logic operation on 10 Mbps data streams is demonstrated using universal optical logic gates without requiring any electrical supply voltage. The total optical power required for one such universal logic gate is 160 µW.
Effect of current modulation on the coherence of a semiconductor laser with optical feedback
Authors: Gijón María Duque , Masoller Cristina , Tiana-Alsina Jordi
Published: August 2024

The use of laser light for illumination produces speckles that degrade image quality, and different strategies have been developed to mitigate speckle. Optical feedback can reduce the amount of speckle, since it can decrease the coherence of the laser by inducing multi-mode, broad-band emission. However, the effect of optical feedback depends on the laser current and feedback parameters. When the current increases, regions of low speckle contrast often alternate with regions of high contrast, where the laser emission is single-mode. Here, we experimentally study the combined effect of optical feedback and direct modulation of the laser current, to determine whether modulation can be used to further reduce the speckle contrast. We find that current modulation does not further reduce the contrast, but under appropriate modulation parameters, the regions of high speckle contrast are fully suppressed and the contrast remains low in all the range of pump currents studied. The modulation frequencies that eliminate the high-contrast regions depend on the modulation amplitude. Our findings are relevant to laser-based illumination systems, because optical feedback can be used in combination with current modulation to reduce speckle over a wide range of pump currents.
Pretilt angle modulation of liquid crystals based on single crystal rubrene with incorporation of homeotropic polyimides
Authors: Nawaz Rab , Hsu Che-Ju , Huang Chi-Yen
Published: August 2024

The alignment control of liquid crystals (LCs) is critical for various practical applications. The pretilt angle modulation of LCs typically requires a mechanical rubbing on substrates to orient the LCs. This study presents a contact-free approach to achieve pretilt angle modulation of LCs. Initially, a single crystal rubrene (SCR) film is deposited on the substrate. Subsequently, a mixture of nematic LCs and homeotropic polyimides (HPIs) is introduced between two SCR substrates via capillary action. During capillary filling, the synergy of capillary flow and the interaction between LCs and SCR ensures specific LC orientation. Subsequently, HPI dopants migrate toward and organize on the SCR through vertical phase separation, enhancing surface hydrophobicity and thereby increasing the pretilt angle of LCs. The pretilt angle of LCs can be continuously adjusted over a wide range from 2° to 90° by varying the HPI concentration. The contact-free process preserves against electrostatic charges, dust contamination, and surface damage typical of rubbed LC cells. This believed to be novel technique shows promise for developing no-bias-bend and bistable bend-splay LC displays.
Synthesis of astigmatic non-uniformly correlated beams
Authors: Wu Jidong , Zhao Xinshun , Lin Shuqin , Xu Ying , Lin Rong , Yu Jiayi , Cai Yangjian , Zhu Xinlei
Published: August 2024

We present a general strategy for synthesizing astigmatic random structured light beams by jointly manipulating the astigmatic phase and optical coherence. With it, we facilitate the creation of a distinct category of beams termed astigmatic non-uniformly correlated (ANUC) beams. Our study emphasizes the significant influence of the astigmatic phase on the optical spatial coherence distribution, resulting in novel propagation features. Furthermore, we elucidate their underlying physical nature. Experimentally, we successfully generate such beams, validating theoretical projections. Our findings hold promise for diverse applications requiring adaptable spectral density control.
Widefield quantitative polarized light microscopy using spectrally encoded null polarimetry
Authors: Laviec Hugo , Dubreuil Matthieu , Rivet Sylvain , Indenbom Mikhail , Le Grand Yann
Published: August 2024

Quantitative polarized light microscopy enables determination of optical retardation and azimuth of birefringent specimens and is a powerful tool for label-free imaging in the fields of biology and pathology. We have recently proposed a device for fast laser-scanning birefringence microscopy based on a near-infrared wavelength-swept laser and spectral encoding of polarization, resulting in a channeled spectrum generated during the wavelength-sweep of the laser and highly sensitive to optical retardation [Opt. Lett. 49, 387 (2024)10.1364/OL.507576]. In this Letter, we propose its transposition to visible widefield imaging using a white light source and a high-order retarder for spectral encoding and a hyperspectral camera to record the channeled spectrum at each point of the image in parallel. The method proposed here allows for straightforward conversion of any widefield microscope into a highly sensitive and quantitative polarized light microscope.
Slow-wave-enhanced on-chip Michelson interferometer sensor: erratum
Authors: Shen Jianhao , Donnelly Daniel , Chakravarty Swapnajit
Published: August 2024

The device described in our earlier paper [Opt. Lett. 48, 5968 (2023)10.1364/OL.500033] as a slow wave enhanced on-chip Michelson interferometer sensor is correctly designated as a slow wave enhanced on-chip loop terminated Mach-Zehnder interferometer sensor. In the earlier paper, we experimentally demonstrated slow wave enhanced phase and spectral sensitivity in asymmetric loop-terminated Mach-Zehnder interferometer (LT-MZI) sensors. Compared to Mach-Zehnder interferometers (MZI) that experimentally demonstrated a phase sensitivity 84,000 rad/RIU-cm, the reflected path enhancement of the optical path length coupled with slow light enhancement with photonic crystal waveguides in on-chip slow light loop-terminated Mach-Zehnder interferometer sensors resulted in experimentally demonstrated phase sensitivity 277,750 rad/RIU-cm with theoretical phase sensitivity as high as 461,810 rad/RIU-cm, at the same form factor as the MZI of identical interferometer arm lengths.
Exploring the structure, metabolism, and biochemistry of the neuronal microenvironment label-free using fast simultaneous multimodal optical microscopy
Authors: Iyer Rishyashring R. , Sorrells Janet E. , Yang Lingxiao , Renteria Carlos A. , Chaney Eric J. , Tehrani Kayvan F. , Spillman Darold R. , Boppart Stephen A.
Published: August 2024

The technologies to examine the neuronal microenvironment label free remain critically underexplored. There is a gap in our knowledge of underlying metabolic, biochemical, and electrophysiological mechanisms behind several neurological processes at a cellular level, which can be traced to the lack of versatile and high-throughput tools to investigate neural networks. In this paper, four label-free contrasts were explored as mechanisms to study neuronal activity, namely, scattering, birefringence, autofluorescence from metabolic cofactors and molecules, and local biochemistry. To overcome challenges of observing neuronal activity spanning three orders of magnitude in space and time, microscopes had to be developed to simultaneously capture these contrasts quickly, with high resolution, and over a large FOV. We developed versatile autofluorescence lifetime, multiharmonic generation, polarization-sensitive interferometry, and Raman imaging in epi-detection (VAMPIRE) microscopy to simultaneously observe multiple facets of neuronal structure and dynamics. The accelerated computational-imaging-driven acquisition speeds, the utilization of a single light source to evoke all contrasts, the simultaneous acquisition that provides an otherwise impossible multimodal dynamic imaging capability, and the real-time processing of the data enable VAMPIRE microscopy as a powerful imaging platform for neurophotonics and beyond.
Multisystemic inflammatory disease in Pheasantshell (Unionidae, Actinonaias pectorosa) associated with Yokenella regensburgei infection at sites experiencing seasonal mass mortality events
Authors: Da Silva Neto Jeronimo G. , Hardman Rebecca H. , Engman Augustin C. , Dinkins Gerald R. , Lane Timothy W. , Fry Michael M. , Rines Christian R. , Bisenieks Amber L. , Rajeev Sree , Dennis Michelle M.
Published: August 2024

Freshwater mussels are integral components of riverine ecosystems, influencing water quality, nutrient cycling, and habitat characteristics. Enigmatic freshwater mussel declines, often characterized by sudden mass mortality events, pose significant challenges to conservation efforts. The Clinch River, a freshwater biodiversity hotspot in Virginia and Tennessee, USA, has experienced several enigmatic mass mortality events since 2016. Studies have reported bacteria associated with moribund Pheasantshell (Actinonaias pectorosa) during mortality events in the Clinch River, specifically Yokenella regensburgei. Despite reports of bacterial infection, little is known about their role as pathogens. Through a multiyear case-control study, combining in-situ experiments, field surveys, histology, bacterial isolation, and high-throughput sequencing, we assessed the role of bacteria in Pheasantshell (Actinonais pectorosa) mortality at three sites in the Clinch River. Between May 2021 and December 2023, we collected 21 wild moribund free-living A. pectorosa and 68 hatchery-reared A. pectorosa maintained in silos at the same sites and investigated differences in pathology and microbiologye between groups. No silo mussels presented clinical signs of disease, or gross or microscopic lesions associated with pathological conditions leading to mortality. Our findings reveal a significant association between Yokenella regensburgei and severe multisystemic and multifocal infiltrative hemocytosis with necrosis, consistent with sepsis. Lesions associated with yokenellosis were of sufficient severity and physiological significance to explain mortality in infected hosts. Although our study does not explain the cause of these infections, it confirms that mussels at our study sites are ultimately dying with an infectious disease and that Y. regensburgei can be pathogenic in free-living mussels. Our results underscore the importance of considering bacterial diseases in wild mussel populations and emphasize the need for further research to elucidate the epidemiology and pathogenicity of Y. regensburgei. Overall, our study highlights the importance of integrated approaches combining pathology, microbiology, and epidemiology in freshwater mussel conservation efforts.
Deep-rooted Indian Middle Palaeolithic: Terminal Middle Pleistocene lithic assemblage from Retlapalle, Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Anil Devara , Devi Monika , Jha Gopesh , Khan Zakir , Mahesh Vrushab , Ajithprasad P. , Chauhan Naveen
Published: August 2024

The Indian Middle Palaeolithic has been recognized as crucial evidence for understanding the complex behavioural dynamics of hominins and is also seen as a behavioural marker of early Homo sapiens in the region. Recent research has pushed back the timeline of the Middle Palaeolithic to the Middle Pleistocene epoch, indicating a potential in-situ emergence from the earlier Late Acheulian culture. The long-lasting Middle Palaeolithic culture in India evolve over multiple glacial-interglacial cycle, showing signs of behavioural resilience to bigger climatic upheaval like ~74 ka Toba super-eruption. This has added to the complexity of our understanding of the Middle Palaeolithic in the region and emphasizes the need for further research. This study focuses upon the investigation of Middle Palaeolithic artefacts found in the Retlapalle area within the upper Gundlakamma river basin, Andhra Pradesh. The dating of the artefact-bearing layer was carried out using the p-IR-IRSL method, which revealed a burial age of 139±17 thousand years. The Retlapalle assemblage is characterized by a diverse range of Levallois core reductions, various retouched artefacts, with a dominance of pointed tools, and a few blade components. The study provides a valuable addition to the existing body of data concerning Palaeolithic sites dating back to the Middle Pleistocene, a period that remains relatively underexplored.
Reaching adolescents with health services: Systematic development of an adolescent health check-ups and wellbeing programme in Ghana (Y-Check, Ghana)
Authors: Weobong Benedict , Glozah Franklin N. , Taylor-Abdulai Hannah B. , Koka Eric , Addae Nancy , Alor Stanley , Kohl Kid , Banati Prerna , Adongo Philip B. , Ross David A.
Published: August 2024

Background

Routine health check-ups may improve adolescent health, but global guidelines are lacking. Phase 1 of the WHO-coordinated Y-Check Research Programme involved three African cities to co-produce a programme of adolescent health check-ups. We describe a systematic approach to developing a routine adolescent health check-ups and wellbeing programme (Y-Check) to contribute evidence on whether adolescent health check-ups should be part of routine health services in Ghana.

Methods

Y-Check Phase 1 was conducted in four communities in Cape Coast Ghana, over two stages using a variety of methods: (a) needs assessment and landscape analysis on the health of adolescents (existing policies/programmes, school system, adolescent health conditions) was conducted through desk-review and interviews with key informants to identify the potential content, delivery strategy and settings for adolescent health check-ups in this context; (b) co-designing the Y-Check intervention framework through person-centred participatory workshops and a consensus-building workshop with multiple stakeholders, including adolescents (10–19 years) and their parents. The study was conducted between January 2020 and October 2020.

Results

The Y-Check intervention consists of two check-ups with content that is tailored to the needs of younger adolescents and older adolescents; delivered at both school and community settings by a team of trained staff in multiple steps involving up to four stations. Y-Check includes a referral system for adolescents with any problems that cannot be investigated or treated on-the-spot.

Conclusions

Our systematic approach to co-producing Y-Check has resulted in an intervention whose content and structure is determined by the local context, and which was adjudged by multiple stakeholders to be likely to be both useful and acceptable, and which builds on best practice. As a logical next step, the Y-Check will be subjected to pilot testing and implementation research to rigorously evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, coverage, yield of previously undiagnosed conditions and cost of these health check-ups.
Evaluation of suitable reference genes for qPCR normalisation of gene expression in a Achilles tendon injury model
Authors: Marr Neil , Meeson Richard , Piercy Richard J. , Hildyard John C. W. , Thorpe Chavaunne T.
Published: August 2024

Tendons are one of the major load-bearing tissues in the body; subjected to enormous peak stresses, and thus vulnerable to injury. Cellular responses to tendon injury are complex, involving inflammatory and repair components, with the latter employing both resident and recruited exogenous cell populations. Gene expression analyses are valuable tools for investigating tendon injury, allowing assessment of repair processes and pathological responses such as fibrosis, and permitting evaluation of therapeutic pharmacological interventions. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is a commonly used approach for such studies, but data obtained by this method must be normalised to reference genes: genes known to be stably expressed between the experimental conditions investigated. Establishing suitable tendon injury reference genes is thus essential. Accordingly we investigated mRNA expression stability in a rat model of tendon injury, comparing both injured and uninjured tendons, and the effects of rapamycin treatment, at 1 and 3 weeks post injury. We used 11 candidate genes (18S, ACTB, AP3D1, B2M, CSNK2A2, GAPDH, HPRT1, PAK1IP1, RPL13a, SDHA, UBC) and assessed stability via four complementary algorithms (Bestkeeper, deltaCt, geNorm, Normfinder). Our results suggests that ACTB, CSNK2A2, HPRT1 and PAK1IP1 are all stably expressed in tendon, regardless of injury or drug treatment: any three of these would serve as universally suitable reference gene panel for normalizing qPCR expression data in the rat tendon injury model. We also reveal 18S, UBC, GAPDH, and SDHA as consistently poor scoring candidates (with the latter two exhibiting rapamycin- and injury-associated changes, respectively): these genes should be avoided.
Credit risk contagion of supply chain finance: An empirical analysis of supply chain listed companies
Authors: Geng Xinpeng , Han Bing , Yang Debao , Zhao Junren
Published: August 2024

With the gradual rise of the supply chain financial model and the expansion of scale, credit risk and contagion effects are gradually strengthened as business and financial links between upstream and downstream enterprises in the supply chain. The traditional credit risk contagion assessment model based on the financial status of an enterprise and the pledging of fixed assets has been unable to meet the basic needs of modern supply chain companies and financial institutions for risk control. Therefore, this paper introduces the Cox-Copula model to comprehensively assess a company’s financial situation and the business health of upstream and downstream companies in the supply chain from the perspective of actual transactions between companies and fixed asset pledges. The study found that credit risk has a contagion effect in supply chain enterprises, and this contagion effect of credit risk has certain dynamic characteristics. At the same time, it was found that the impacts of macroeconomic factors and microfinance factors on credit risk contagion of supply chain finance have differences in the two dimensions of degree and direction of action.