Unique Aspects Research Articles

Distinct Cortical Networks Subserve Spatio-temporal Sampling in Vision through Different Oscillatory Rhythms.

Although visual input arrives continuously, sensory information is segmented into (quasi-)discrete events. Here, we investigated the neural correlates of spatiotemporal binding in humans with magnetoencephalography using two tasks where separate flashes were presented on each trial but were perceived, in a bistable way, as either a single or two separate events. The first task (two-flash fusion) involved judging one versus two flashes, whereas the second task (apparent motion: AM) involved judging coherent motion versus two stationary flashes. Results indicate two different functional networks underlying two unique aspects of temporal binding. In two-flash fusion trials, involving an integration window of ∼50 msec, evoked responses differed as a function of perceptual interpretation by ∼25 msec after stimuli offset. Multivariate decoding of subjective perception based on prestimulus oscillatory phase was significant for alpha-band activity in the right medial temporal (V5/MT) area, with the strength of prestimulus connectivity between early visual areas and V5/MT being predictive of performance. In contrast, the longer integration window (∼130 msec) for AM showed evoked field differences only ∼250 msec after stimuli offset. Phase decoding of the perceptual outcome in AM trials was significant for theta-band activity in the right intraparietal sulcus. Prestimulus theta-band connectivity between V5/MT and intraparietal sulcus best predicted AM perceptual outcome. For both tasks, phase effects found could not be accounted by concomitant variations in power. These results show a strong relationship between specific spatiotemporal binding windows and specific oscillations, linked to the information flow between different areas of the where and when visual pathways.

Understanding Private Equity Funds: A Guide to Private Equity Research in Accounting

ABSTRACT Private equity (PE) funds are increasingly important to the economy and now serve as the primary vehicle for raising new capital. However, a limited understanding of the unique PE fund setting among accounting academics inhibits accounting research in this area. In this paper, we first describe the PE fund setting and explain how fundamental differences between PE and previously studied settings make it difficult to infer PE fund behavior from research performed using other settings. We then discuss how PE funds provide researchers with the ability to explore fundamental questions related to agency costs, governance, compensation, disclosure, and fair value accounting. Finally, we provide guidance on PE data sources available for use in future research. Because of the volume of economic activity currently funneled through PE and the unique aspects of the PE setting, it is important for researchers to explore when, why, and how accounting matters for PE funds. Data Availability: Data used in this study are available from the public sources identified in the text. JEL Classifications: G1; G14; G30; M4; M41.

Underwater Visible Light Communication for Scuba Divers Health Monitoring System

Diving has become a common way of performing research in the underwater living world. One of the major problems with diving is the health issues faced by the divers during diving and there comes the need for monitoring diver’s health. This paper mainly focuses on the health monitoring systems for divers by transferring the data using Li-Fi (Light Fidelity). This system senses different health specifications like heartbeat, body temperature and body position. The monitored health specifications are recorded as a database in a memory chip for further analysis. To reduce the power consumption, the system transfers the data to the nearby divers and ships only during the abnormal health issue. The uniqueness of this system lies in its combination of advanced technologies for diver safety, communication, and submarine surveillance. This is crucial for ensuring their safety, especially in challenging underwater environments. This is perhaps one of the most unique aspects. Li-Fi, which uses light to transmit data, is a breakthrough for underwater communication. This system provides real-time data on the diver's condition and an immediate way to request assistance in case of an emergency. By incorporating temperature and gyro monitoring, the system collects valuable data on diver conditions and movements. This data could be analyzed for research or used to improve safety protocols in the future.

Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy: A Modern Definition and Description.

Currently, orthopaedic manual physical therapy (OMPT) lacks a description of practice that reflects contemporary thinking and embraces advances across the scientific, clinical, and educational arms of the profession. The absence of a clear definition of OMPT reduces understanding of the approach across health care professions and potentially limits OMPT from inclusion in scientific reviews and clinical practice guidelines. For example, it is often incorrectly classified as passive care or incorrectly contrasted with exercise-therapy approaches. This perspective aims to provide clinicians, researchers, and stakeholders a modern definition of OMPT that improves the understanding of this approach both inside and outside the physical therapist profession. The authors also aim to outline the unique and essential aspects of advanced OMPT training with the corresponding examination and treatment competencies. This definition of practice and illustration of its defining characteristics is necessary to improve the understanding of this approach and to help classify it correctly for study in the scientific literature. This perspective provides a current definition and conceptual model of OMPT, defining the distinguishing characteristics and key elements of this systematic and active patient-centered approach to improve understanding and help classify it correctly for study in the scientific literature.

Noninvasive respiratory support in the emergency department: Controversies and state-of-the-art recommendations.

Acute respiratory failure is a common reason for emergency department visits and hospital admissions. Diverse underlying physiologic abnormalities lead to unique aspects about the most common causes of acute respiratory failure: acute decompensated heart failure, acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and acute de novo hypoxemic respiratory failure. Noninvasive respiratory support strategies are increasingly used methods to support work of breathing and improve gas exchange abnormalities to improve outcomes relative to conventional oxygen therapy or invasive mechanical ventilation. Noninvasive respiratory support includes noninvasive positive pressure ventilation and nasal high flow, each with unique physiologic mechanisms. This paper will review the physiology of respiratory failure and noninvasive respiratory support modalities and offer data and guideline-driven recommendations in the context of key clinical controversies.

HTA regulation: how is Italy moving?

Within the European evolutionary framework concerning citizens’ health, the focus shifts to the new HTA regulation, set to alter processes and influence decision-making at the individual country level regarding reimbursement and pricing. The ambitious goal of achieving faster and more uniform access will significantly reshape the evaluative model stabilized over the years, characterized by the creation of different rules and processes among member states and diverse output timelines across the countries. The imminent adoption of a more collaborative process necessitates member countries and companies to address several steps to ensure a smooth transition without penalizing the unique aspects of individual countries or impeding real access. Italy, actively participating in European preparatory activities with AIFA, faces challenges in adapting its formal process due to AIFA’s ongoing reform since November 2022, which is not yet materialized. National-level companies heavily depend on leadership and involvement rules from their HTA agencies, with the risk that agencies with more established engagement models with external stakeholders may present themselves on January 12, 2025, the start date of the new process for oncological and ATMP drugs, better prepared and may excel in designing scoping meetings and in formulating PICO. Therefore, the activation of a country culture of HTA and a robust and extended “readiness” phase involving all stakeholders are desirable, along with the establishment of collaboration networks with universities and scientific societies to make valuable knowledge and qualified resources more readily available, crucial element for the delicate transition from the old to the new evaluative system.

Sexual and reproductive health in military settings: A qualitative study

ABSTRACT Mission readiness is critical to the operational success of the United States (US) military and includes having a healthy and fit fighting force. Service members and their dependents have access to a wide range of sexual and reproductive health services with no out-of-pocket costs. Despite this access, negative outcomes such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy persist. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with service members and stakeholders (e.g. medical providers). Interviews explored the individual, interpersonal, organizational, and institutional factors that inform sexual norms, behaviors, and healthcare experiences in the US military. Interview transcripts were coded manually; data were summarized for themes related to unique aspects of military culture and healthcare affecting sexual and reproductive health. Twenty-five (25) service members and 15 stakeholders completed interviews. Four themes emerged: 1) despite free access, both general and military-specific barriers to sexual and reproductive healthcare persist; 2) general and military-specific cultural norms apply to sexual behavior and care seeking; 3) sexual and reproductive health-related norms can be perceived as confusing and contradictory within the military; and 4) resources addressing sexual assault are ubiquitous in military settings, but resources addressing prevention of STIs and unintended pregnancy are limited. Both general and military-specific norms, behavior, and healthcare experiences need to be considered in clinical care, public health campaigns, and other efforts to promote sexual and reproductive health in military settings.

Strategy and Models of Buildings Maintenance – a Literature Survey

In the article comprehensive insights into the field of building maintenance, emphasizing the importance of keywords, collaborative efforts among authors, and the evolving research landscape are provided. The study conducts a thorough literature review using Scopus as a search engine, employing the full-counting method for authorship, and VOSviewer software for bibliometric analysis. The results reveal distinct data sets focusing on building maintenance from general to specific, with each set reflecting unique aspects and considerations. Bibliometric maps illustrate author collaboration and keyword connections within each set, highlighting evolving research trends and areas of focus. The study concludes with recommendations for future research, emphasizing the ongoing need for exploration and development in building maintenance.

MaliceSpotter: Revolutionizing Cyber Security with Machine Learning for Phishing Resilience

Objectives: To enhance cyber security by implementing advanced algorithms to swiftly identify and neutralize phishing threats. Also, to bolster user protection, fortify data integrity, and ensure a resilient defense against evolving cyber threats. Methods: MaliceSpotter aims in classifying user-entered URLs by analysing 28 features, using algorithms like Logistic Regression, Random Forest, and KNN, combined via a Voting Classifier. Dataset on Kaggle provides diverse samples for evaluation. This methodology's unique aspects include multiple algorithm integration and the utilization of Kaggle as a data source. Findings: MaliceSpotter demonstrates a commendable accuracy of 95%, effectively classifying input URLs as phishing or legitimate. The system's uniqueness lies in its provision of a detailed report on URL behavior, facilitating informed decision-making. The implementation of ensemble learning is notable, particularly the introduction of the Voting Classifier. This approach leverages various algorithms, successfully incorporating bagging and voting concepts. Through the Voting Classifier, MaliceSpotter gains insights into the working of machine learning algorithms, enhancing the scrutiny of URL behavior. This innovative feature sets MaliceSpotter apart, offering a nuanced perspective on the reliability of URLs through the collective input of diverse algorithms. Novelty: MaliceSpotter uniquely combines diverse algorithms, leveraging a voting classifier for robust results. Continuously updating in real time, it meticulously dissects URLs into 28 parts, ensuring thorough scrutiny and effective detection. Keywords: Phishing, Machine Learning, Web Security, Voting Classifier, Bagging

Engineering models of head and neck and oral cancers on-a-chip.

Head and neck cancers (HNCs) rank as the sixth most common cancer globally and result in over 450 000 deaths annually. Despite considerable advancements in diagnostics and treatment, the 5-year survival rate for most types of HNCs remains below 50%. Poor prognoses are often attributed to tumor heterogeneity, drug resistance, and immunosuppression. These characteristics are difficult to replicate using in vitro or in vivo models, culminating in few effective approaches for early detection and therapeutic drug development. Organs-on-a-chip offer a promising avenue for studying HNCs, serving as microphysiological models that closely recapitulate the complexities of biological tissues within highly controllable microfluidic platforms. Such systems have gained interest as advanced experimental tools to investigate human pathophysiology and assess therapeutic efficacy, providing a deeper understanding of cancer pathophysiology. This review outlines current challenges and opportunities in replicating HNCs within microphysiological systems, focusing on mimicking the soft, glandular, and hard tissues of the head and neck. We further delve into the major applications of organ-on-a-chip models for HNCs, including fundamental research, drug discovery, translational approaches, and personalized medicine. This review emphasizes the integration of organs-on-a-chip into the repertoire of biological model systems available to researchers. This integration enables the exploration of unique aspects of HNCs, thereby accelerating discoveries with the potential to improve outcomes for HNC patients.

Intracellular proteomics and extracellular vesiculomics as a metric of disease recapitulation in 3D-bioprinted aortic valve arrays.

In calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD), mechanosensitive valvular cells respond to fibrosis- and calcification-induced tissue stiffening, further driving pathophysiology. No pharmacotherapeutics are available to treat CAVD because of the paucity of (i) appropriate experimental models that recapitulate this complex environment and (ii) benchmarking novel engineered aortic valve (AV)-model performance. We established a biomaterial-based CAVD model mimicking the biomechanics of the human AV disease-prone fibrosa layer, three-dimensional (3D)-bioprinted into 96-well arrays. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analyses probed the cellular proteome and vesiculome to compare the 3D-bioprinted model versus traditional 2D monoculture, against human CAVD tissue. The 3D-bioprinted model highly recapitulated the CAVD cellular proteome (94% versus 70% of 2D proteins). Integration of cellular and vesicular datasets identified known and unknown proteins ubiquitous to AV calcification. This study explores how 2D versus 3D-bioengineered systems recapitulate unique aspects of human disease, positions multiomics as a technique for the evaluation of high throughput-based bioengineered model systems, and potentiates future drug discovery.

Gut microbiome-derived bacterial extracellular vesicles in patients with solid tumours

IntroductionGut microbiome–derived nanoparticles, known as bacterial extracellular vesicles (bEVs), have garnered interest as promising tools for studying the link between the gut microbiome and human health. The diverse composition of bEVs, including their proteins, mRNAs, metabolites, and lipids, makes them useful for investigating diseases such as cancer. However, conventional approaches for studying gut microbiome composition alone may not be accurate in deciphering host–gut microbiome communication. In clinical microbiome research, there is a gap in the knowledge on the role of bEVs in solid tumor patients. ObjectivesAnalyzing the functionality of bEVs using (meta)genomics and proteomics could highlight the unique aspects of host–gut microbiome interactions in solid tumor patients. Therefore, we performed a comparative analysis of the proteome and microbiota composition of gut microbiome-derived bEVs isolated from patients with solid tumors and healthy controls. MethodsAfter isolating bEVs from the feces of solid tumor patients and healthy controls, we performed spectrometry analysis of their proteomes and next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the 16S gene. We also investigated the gut microbiomes of feces from patients and controls using 16S sequencing and machine learning to classify the samples into patients and controls based on their bEVs and fecal microbiomes. ResultsSolid tumor patients showed decreased microbiota richness and diversity in both the bEVs and feces. However, the bEV proteomes were more diverse in patients than in the controls and were enriched with proteins associated with the metabolism of amino acids and carbohydrates, nucleotide binding, and oxidoreductase activity. Metadata classification of samples was more accurate using fecal bEVs (100%) compared with fecal samples (93%). ConclusionOur findings suggest that bEVs are unique functional entities. There is a need to explore bEVs together with conventional gut microbiome analysis in functional cancer research to decipher the potential of bEVs as cancer diagnostic or therapeutic biomarkers.

Inter-Comparison of Lightning Measurements in Quasi-Linear Convective Systems

Data from four lightning networks collected during three quasi-linear convective systems (QLCS) are used to understand the differences in detection for optimizing their combined use. Additionally, using unique aspects from each network provides a more complete picture of lightning in a thunderstorm. The four lightning networks examined include a Lightning Mapping Array (LMA), the Earth Networks Total Lightning Network (ENTLN), the Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM), and the National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN). The data from each network are inter-matched and locations where each network uniquely detected a flash versus all are analyzed in reference to three QLCSs, including two QLCSs that occurred in the Southeast (22 March 2022 and 30 March 2022) during the Propagation, Evolution, and Rotation in Linear Systems (PERiLS) field campaign, and one case from Oklahoma (26 February 2023). Unique aspects of the lightning provided by each network are examined, including flash initiation altitude, size, type, and energy. Lightning flash trends and characteristics for each QLCS are similar between networks in general, but deviate in certain conditions and locations. Times of decreased matching between networks were associated with localized increases in lightning rates, smaller flash sizes, and lower-energy flashes. The differences in each network’s performance across the QLCSs demonstrates the importance of understanding the limitations in each and the advantage of using multiple networks.

The Elements of Every Metaverse Types: A Systematic Literature Review

The understanding of the metaverse is currently expanding, and several interpretations and implementations may be present. The many metaverse iterations have distinct components and capabilities, which have the potential to evolve and enhance over time in tandem with technological advancements and evolving user requirements. The metaverse has emerged as a widely discussed subject of public interest, with individuals and organizations alike contemplating its potential applications. However, a prevailing misperception persists over its fundamental comprehension. The concept of the metaverse is often misconstrued as solely referring to a virtual world; nevertheless, it encompasses more than simply a virtual realm. Three other categories can be classified as constituting the metaverse. The metaverse encompasses four distinct categories, each characterized by unique aspects that may or must diverge from one another. The elements play a crucial role in the development of any metaverse kind. This work aims to provide a valuable contribution by offering a comprehensive analysis of the constituent features of various metaverse types. Its purpose is to assist anyone interested in studying or implementing a certain metaverse type by fostering a deeper understanding of its core aspects.

Thermal adaptation involves higher expression levels of the lethal(2)-essential-for-life-like (l(2)efl) among the honeybee Apis mellifera L. subspecies

Apis mellifera yemenitica is the native honeybee of the Arabian Peninsula. It demonstrates unique morphological, behavioral, and molecular aspects to survive extreme summer temperatures dominating the region. In this study, relative expression of Apis mellifera lethal(2)-essential-for-life-like (l(2)efl) gene family (ID: 724405; 724488; 234274) were measured in A. m. yemenitica and A. m. carnica under desert (Riyadh) and semiarid (Baha) conditions of Saudi Arabia. Results demonstrated significantly higher day-long expression levels of l(2)efl mRNAs in A. m. yemenitica than in A. m. carnica under the same conditions. Under desert conditions of Riyadh, fold changes in expression levels of l(2)efl mRNAs were ∼100× higher in A. m. yemenitica than the calibrator. In Baha (semiarid conditions), l(2)efl expression levels were very modest compared to those in Riyadh with significant interaction between location and subspecies. In conclusion, expression of l(2)efl (mRNAs) (724405; 724488; 234274) can be considered as a key component of A. m. yemenitica response to extreme desert temperatures characterizing the Riyadh region. On the other hand, the semi-arid conditions (Baha) are a more suitable habitat for A. m. carnica compared to Riyadh.

Understanding the dilemma of explainable artificial intelligence: a proposal for a ritual dialog framework

This paper addresses how people understand Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) in three ways: contrastive, functional, and transparent. We discuss the unique aspects and challenges of each and emphasize improving current XAI understanding frameworks. The Ritual Dialog Framework (RDF) is introduced as a solution for better dialog between AI creators and users, blending anthropological insights with current acceptance challenges. RDF focuses on building trust and a user-centered approach in XAI. By undertaking such an initiative, we aim to foster a thorough Understanding of XAI, capable of resolving the current issues of acceptance and recognition.

Più Onco che Ematologia: botta, risposta e sottolineature attraverso i casi

This study aims to explore unique aspects of onco-haematological diseases by offering pae- diatricians insights into their characteristics to better inform clinical practice. It emphasizes the importance of considering atypical presentations, like extramedullary involvement, in diagnosing acute leukaemia. Additionally, it discusses the distinct clinical features of Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, highlighting differences in diagnosis and onset (the former potentially less aggressive and "chronic", while the latter as an oncologic emergency with mediastinal mass). Lastly, it delves into chronic myeloid leukaemia, discussing associated risks like tumour lysis syndrome and challenges related to treatment compliance with tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Reasoning on Pore Terminology in 3D Bioprinting.

Terminology is pivotal for facilitating clear communication and minimizing ambiguity, especially in specialized fields such as chemistry. In materials science, a subset of chemistry, the term "pore" is traditionally linked to the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) nomenclature, which categorizes pores into "micro", "meso", and "macro" based on size. However, applying this terminology in closely-related areas, such as 3D bioprinting, often leads to confusion owing to the lack of consensus on specific definitions and classifications tailored to each field. This review article critically examines the current use of pore terminology in the context of 3D bioprinting, highlighting the need for reassessment to avoid potential misunderstandings. We propose an alternative classification that aligns more closely with the specific requirements of bioprinting, suggesting a tentative size-based division of interconnected pores into 'parvo'-(d < 25 µm), 'medio'-(25 < d < 100 µm), and 'magno'-(d > 100 µm) pores, relying on the current understanding of the pore size role in tissue formation. The introduction of field-specific terminology for pore sizes in 3D bioprinting is essential to enhance the clarity and precision of research communication. This represents a step toward a more cohesive and specialized lexicon that aligns with the unique aspects of bioprinting and tissue engineering.

Glomerular Herniation in Toxemia of Pregnancy before 18 Weeks Gestation

Presentation of preeclampsia before 18 weeks is rare. We present a case of severe preeclampsia manifesting at 18 weeks gestation, notable with concurrent renal and optic changes. Beyond the typical kidney histological features of toxemia of pregnancy, the kidney biopsy revealed a distinctive histopathological finding-herniation of the glomerular tuft into the proximal tubule. This finding is rare with only a few cases reported in the literature. We present our findings for the early identification of preeclampsia. Additionally, our case exhibited severe retinal edema on fundoscopy, also offering a potential avenue for improving early detection. These insights are crucial for further exploration and understanding of these unique aspects of early preeclampsia just prior to retinal detachment.

RiceProteomeDB (RPDB): a user-friendly database for proteomics data storage, retrieval, and analysis

Rice, feeding a significant portion of the world, poses unique proteomic challenges critical to agricultural research and global food security. The complexity of the rice proteome, influenced by various genetic and environmental factors, demands specialized analytical approaches for effective study. The central challenges in rice proteomics lie in developing custom methods suited to the unique aspects of rice biology. These include data preprocessing, method selection, and result validation, all of which are essential for advancing rice research. Our aim is to decode these proteomic intricacies to facilitate breakthroughs in strain improvement, disease resistance, and yield optimization, all vital for combating global food insecurity. To achieve this, we have created the RiceProteomeDB (RPDB), a React + Django database, offering a streamlined and comprehensive platform for the analysis of rice proteomics data. RiceProteomeDB (RPDB) simplifies proteomics data management and analysis. It offers features for data organization, preprocessing, method selection, result validation, and data sharing. Researchers can access processed rice proteomics data, conduct analyses, and explore experimental conditions. The user-friendly web interface enhances navigation and interaction. RPDB fosters collaboration by enabling data sharing and proper acknowledgment of sources, contributing to proteomics research and knowledge dissemination. Availability and implementation: Web application: http://riceproteome.plantprofile.net/. The web application’s source code, user’s manual, and sample data: https://github.com/dongu7610/Riceproteome.