bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The rationale for the development and publication of the World Health Organization reporting systems for cytopathology and a brief overview of the first editions of the lung and pancreaticobiliary systems
Authors: Field Andrew S. , Pitman Martha , Cree Ian A. , Canberk Sule , Bubendorf Lukas , Mahrotra Ravi , Schmitt Fernando
Published: September 2023

The International Academy of Cytology has joined with the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the World Health Organization (WHO) to develop international systems for reporting the cytopathology of lung, pancreas and biliary tract, lymph nodes, soft tissue, liver, breast, and kidney and adrenal gland. The WHO recently published the reporting systems for lung and pancreaticobiliary cytopathology. The objectives of this collaboration are to standardize the reporting of cytopathology; improve the quality of reporting by establishing the key diagnostic cytopathological features of entities and neoplasms; provide detailed best‐practice guidelines in sampling techniques, specimen handling and processing, and the use of ancillary techniques; and facilitate communication between cytopathologists and clinicians to improve patient care. Each WHO system has defined specific categories and terminology for reporting cytopathology, and each category has an estimated risk of malignancy as far as the current literature allows and a suggested diagnostic management algorithm to assist clinicians. The WHO systems recognize that local medical and pathology infrastructure will vary, particularly in low‐income and middle‐income countries, and the WHO systems and their diagnostic management recommendations have been developed to allow them to be applied worldwide in all resource settings. The process of the selection of editors and authors and the writing and editing responsibilities has used the same model as that used for the fifth edition WHO Classification of Tumours, to which the WHO cytopathology systems are directly linked. This review provides the rationale and history of this joint International Academy of Cytology, International Agency for Research on Cancer, and WHO cytopathology project and a brief overview of the WHO reporting systems for lung and pancreaticobiliary cytopathology.
Don't SUMP it! Utility of PLAG1 immunocytochemistry in basaloid SUMP subcategory
Authors: Sanchez‐Avila Monica , Tjendra Youley , Zuo Yiqin , Ruiz‐Cordero Roberto , Garcia‐Buitrago Monica , Jorda Merce , Gomez‐Fernandez Carmen , Velez Torres Jaylou M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Basaloid salivary gland neoplasm of uncertain malignant potential (B‐SUMP) is an indeterminate diagnostic subcategory, with pleomorphic adenoma (PA) representing the most common benign neoplasm. Pleomorphic adenoma gene 1 (PLAG1) staining is frequently seen in PAs and could aid in distinguishing them from other basaloid neoplasms. The authors evaluated the utility of PLAG1 immunocytochemistry (ICC) in differentiating PAs from other basaloid neoplasms in smears and liquid‐based cytology (LBC) specimens.

Methods

In total, 45 B‐SUMP cytology aspirates and corresponding surgical excision specimens were identified. PLAG1 immunostaining was performed in all aspirates and surgical excision specimens and was scored as positive (strong/diffuse), equivocal (focal/weak), or negative.

Results

PLAG1 ICC was performed directly on 38 smears and seven LBC specimens. PLAG1 was positive in 29 of 45 cases (64%), whereas six of 45 (13%) were equivocal, and 10 of 45 (22%) were negative. PLAG1‐positive aspirates included 26 (90%) PAs, two (7%) basal cell adenomas (BCAs), and one (3%) carcinoma ex‐PA. PLAG1‐equivocal aspirates included four (67%) PAs and two (33%) BCAs, whereas negative aspirates included five (50%) BCAs, four (40%) adenoid cystic carcinomas, and one (10%) metastatic adenosquamous carcinoma. The sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive values were 87%, 86%, 93%, and 75%, respectively. Diagnostic accuracy was 87%.

Conclusions

PLAG1 ICC is useful when positive (strong/diffuse) and can be reliably performed on smears and LBC specimens. PLAG1 was positive in most PAs and in a small subset of BCAs. Therefore, in the absence of atypical cytologic features, PLAG1‐positive tumors could be diagnosed as benign, with a note favoring PA versus BCA. In contrast, PLAG1‐negative/equivocal tumors should remain in the B‐SUMP category.
Relationship between color appearance evaluation and categorical color responses of small stimuli in central and near peripheral visual fields
Authors: Mogi Shuichi , Kamei Masafumi , Sakurai Masato , Ishikawa Tomoharu , Ayama Miyoshi
Published: September 2023

The appearance of color stimuli can be measured psychophysically using two major techniques: (1) elementary color naming and (2) categorical color naming. On the relation between the two naming techniques, a network model (published 20 years ago) autonomously labels colors without retrieving color names from a database and has the flexibility to adapt to individual differences or observing environments. However, this network model has not been recently applied in this context as few works have focused on two types of color naming experiments using the same observers and conditions, mainly because most studies focused either on continuous changes in color appearance or on categorical color perception and did not need to employ both techniques. In our previous study, new datasets of hue and saturation judgments with whiteness and blackness evaluations were obtained. The evaluation of these datasets included elementary color naming and categorical color naming using 11 basic color terms (BCTs) with 0.5°‐diameter stimuli presented at the center and 12 locations along the horizontal and vertical meridians in the visual field for three observers. The feasibility of applying the model to our new datasets in the center and near periphery has to be examined before utilizing the model for various applications. Gain factor values for each categorical color response (CCR) were individually optimized, and the same combination of gain factors were used for all locations for each observer. The results of the chi‐square goodness‐of‐fit test indicated that the response distribution estimated by the model (color names and “undefined”) was not significantly different from the experimental data obtained in 35 out of 39 conditions. The overall average of the correct estimation was 77%. The high estimation obtained from the same gain factor values is indicative of an invariant relationship between the two naming techniques, with up to 20° eccentricity. It also shows the model's plausibility in explaining individual differences among normal observers.
Improving prediction of computational job execution times with machine learning
Authors: Balis Bartosz , Lelek Tomasz , Bodera Jakub , Grabowski Michal , Grigoras Costin
Published: September 2023

Predicting resource consumption and run time of computational workloads is crucial for efficient resource allocation, or cost and energy optimization. In this paper, we evaluate various machine learning techniques to predict the execution time of computational jobs. For experiments we use datasets from two application areas: scientific workflow management and data processing in the ALICE experiment at CERN. We apply a two‐stage prediction method and evaluate its performance. Other evaluated aspects include: (1) comparing performance of global (per‐workflow) versus specialized (per‐job) models; (2) impact of prediction granularity in the first stage of the two‐stage method; (3) using various feature sets, feature selection, and feature importance analysis; (4) applying symbolic regression in addition to classical regressors. Our results provide new valuable insights on using machine learning techniques to predict the runtime behavior of computational jobs.
Smart admission control strategy utilizing volunteer‐enabled fog‐cloud computing
Authors: Jangu Nupur , Raza Zahid
Published: September 2023

Fog computing has become an effective platform for computing delay‐sensitive IoT tasks. However, the increased scalability of IoT devices () makes it difficult for fog nodes to perform better. Volunteer computing (VC) has emerged as a supportive technology in which resource‐capable s, such as computers and laptops, share their idle resources to compute the IoT tasks. However, in VC‐based approaches, improper selection of volunteer nodes (VNs) may result in an increased failure rate and delay. To address these challenges, this work proposes a Smart Admission Control strategy utilizing volunteer‐enabled Fog‐Cloud computing (SAC‐VFC). The VNs are selected based on grey TOPSIS ranking. The incoming tasks are classified based on priority and delay and then scheduled using the Improved Jellyfish Algorithm (IJFA). Smart gateway (SGW) and fog manager (FM) act as mediators for allocating tasks among voluntary, fog, and cloud resources. FM performs a similarity‐based clustering of fog nodes using the enhanced Fuzzy C Means clustering (EFCM) algorithm to manage resources. Simulation study suggests the superior performance of SAC‐VFC over peers under comparison in terms of average delay, average makespan, success rate of tasks and tasks satisfying the deadline metrics.
Role of the tumour microenvironment in bladder cancer pathogenesis and value of the reverse translational approach: a tale of two species
Authors: Ahmed Basant H. , Zdyrski Christopher , Cheville John , Rancilio Nicholas , Abel Alex M. , Wierson Wesley A. , McGill Jodi L. , Mochel Jonathan P. , Allenspach Karin
Published: September 2023

Background

Bladder cancer is a significant malignancy in humans and canines, with high death rates and devastating clinical symptoms. Despite significant advances in therapeutic management over the years, only a small fraction of bladder cancer patients respond to immunotherapies as a second line of treatment. Since immunotherapies act on various cellular and molecular targets in the bladder cancer tumour microenvironment (TME), a greater understanding of the various types of immune cells, immune checkpoint molecules and cytokines involved in antitumour immunity will help to improve the success rate of current and novel immunotherapies, therefore enhancing the patients quality of life. Accumulating evidence shows fundamental similarities between human and canine muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) in their clinical, histological and molecular features.

Aim

This review focuses on comparative aspects of MIBC in both species, highlighting the role that canines can play as a model for studying MIBC. Additionally, we discuss the various types of immune cells within bladder cancer TME that can influence the prognosis and response to immunotherapy and chemotherapy in both species.

Conclusion

It remains challenging to recapitulate the heterogeneity and complexity of the bladder cancer tumour microenvironment using in vivo and in vitro models, such as zebrafish and 3D organoids models. Optimization of these techniques to create a more representative translational model has been facilitated through in vitro immune‐oncology cocultures, which are considered promising tools to help select the ideal individualized treatment options and predict disease prognosis.
Whole blood no‐lyse no‐wash micromethod for the quantitative measurement of monocyte HLA‐DR
Authors: Miatello Jordi , Faivre Valérie , Marais Clémence , Raineau Mégane , Payen Didier , Tissieres Pierre
Published: September 2023

Background

Monocyte (m)HLA‐DR expression appears to be a potent marker of immunosuppression in critically ill patients. The persistence of low mHLA‐DR expression is associated with an increased risk of nosocomial infections and mortality. To adapt this measurement to pediatric requirements and provide extensive 24/7 access, we have developed a whole blood no‐lyse no‐wash micromethod (MM) and compared it with the standardized method (SM).

Methods

mHLA‐DR was quantified by flow cytometry using Quantibrite™ Anti‐HLA‐DR PE/Monocyte PerCP‐Cy™5.5 with either the SM performed in a diagnostic hematology laboratory using manufacturer protocol, or a whole blood no‐lyse no‐wash MM using an Attune flow cytometer located in the pediatric ICU. Median fluorescence intensity was measured in both techniques and converted to antibodies per cell (AB/C) calibrated with BD Quantibrite™ PE beads. Blood and Quantibrite™ reagent volume used with the MM was reduced by 5‐fold compared to SM. In addition to Quantibrite™ Anti‐Human HLA‐DR PE/Monocyte PerCP‐Cy™5.5, MM required anti‐CD45 and anti‐CD19 labeling.

Results

We determined the expression of mHLA‐DR in 34 patients, 20 adults, and 14 children admitted to ICU. Correlation between MM and SM was excellent (Pearson's correlation: y = 0.8192x + 678.7, r = 0.9270, p < 0.0001). The estimated bias was 2467 ± 1.96 × 3307 AB/C; CI 95% [−4016; +8949].

Conclusions

The no‐lyse no‐wash whole blood microvolume method for measuring mHLA‐DR expression allows for simplified sample preparation without compromising accuracy of the data. This method may simplify immune monitoring of critically ill patient by the deployment of a point of care method.
Experimental performance of soil monitoring system using IoT technique for automatic drip irrigation
Authors: Jain Ravi Kant , Mukherjee Arpita , Karmakar Pratap , Banerjee Aishwarya , Akbarov Husan , Hasanov Shavkat
Published: September 2023

This paper proposes an IoT‐enabled soil monitoring system using wireless sensor network for automatic irrigation in agricultural applications, especially for lemongrass plants, where an automated control system is required for irrigation applications. This can solve the problem of the water crisis, which is faced by the farmers during the cultivation of the crop in the field. This controls the water supply in the irrigation process using an IoT communication system. A system architecture for soil monitoring and controlling irrigation using IoT technique is designed where the different sensors and actuators like humidity, soil moisture, temperature, pump, and so forth are connected with a node microcontrol unit and message queuing telemetry transport (MQTT) protocol for enhancing communication capabilities. This wireless sensor network gives feedback to the system. This provides automation by the on/off pump system during drip irrigation. The sensor data are displayed on a PC or mobile phone through wireless communication and an IoT cloud platform. An experimental testing setup is developed and the experimental performance of a soil monitoring system using IoT technique for automatic drip irrigation has been carried out and soil moisture data are also stored in a cloud server for analytics. The performance shows that the MQTT protocol sends data within 48 s to the IoT cloud so that the data can be acquired in a faster manner. This shows that this kind of soil monitoring system is suitable for automatic drip irrigation, which enhances the farming process and overcomes the water crises in the agricultural system by reducing the wastage of water.
Unified performance analysis with exact solutions for uplink non‐orthogonal multiple access system‐based cellular networks
Authors: Serhat Bulut Ibrahim , Ilhan Haci , Gatera Omar
Published: September 2023

This research presents a unified performance analysis methodology for the power domains of uplink non‐orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) system consisting of a base station and an arbitrary number of users over Rayleigh fading channels. The study derives exact closed‐form expressions for key performance metrics, such as outage probability (OP), symbol error rate (SER), outage capacity (OC), average channel capacity (AVC), and amount of fading, using binary phase shift keying (BPSK) and quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) modulations. The analysis encompasses all necessary channel parameters for evaluating the performance of an uplink NOMA system. The theoretical and simulation results completely supported one another. Furthermore, the results were compared with experiments in the literature using similar parameters. The proposed system was determined to increase performance by 40% for OP, 62% for SER, and 4.74 times for AVC at SNR = 20 dB. Finally, this study introduced exact solutions that can significantly accelerate NOMA systems analysis by exploiting the information in the existing database for analytical design processes in communications theory.
Cavity‐backed substrate integrated waveguide MIMO element with enhanced isolation for 5G communication
Authors: Munusami Cholavendan , Venkatesan Rajeshkumar
Published: September 2023

This article communicates a novel compact four‐element orthogonal cavity‐backed antenna for 5G applications with enhanced isolation. The proposed dumbbell‐shaped substrate integrated waveguide–multiple input/multiple output (SIW‐MIMO) antenna resonate at 5.25 GHz (sub‐6 GHz) based on vias and resonate at 27 GHz (mm‐wave) with copper filling vias using FR‐4 substrate. Both prototypes are separately designed, fabricated, and tested using same dimension (40 mm × 40 mm × 1.6 mm) as well as same radiating structure. Moreover, SIW MIMO antenna design performances are compared between FR‐4 and Rogers RT/Duroid substrate. Deployment of SIW technique in MIMO antenna minimizes the antenna footprint and mutual coupling without involving any decoupling structure. The antenna simulation characteristics of both operating bands are compared and validated with the measurement results. Furthermore, the MIMO diversity parameters are examined.
Memory and language cognitive data harmonization across the United States and Mexico
Authors: Arce Rentería Miguel , Briceño Emily M. , Chen Diefei , Saenz Joseph , Kobayashi Lindsay C. , Gonzalez Christopher , Vonk Jet M. J. , Jones Richard N. , Manly Jennifer J. , Wong Rebeca , Weir David , Langa Kenneth M. , Gross Alden L.
Published: September 2023

INTRODUCTION

We used cultural neuropsychology‐informed procedures to derive and validate harmonized scores representing memory and language across population‐based studies in the United States and Mexico.

METHODS

Data were from the Health and Retirement Study Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol (HRS‐HCAP) and the Mexican Health and Aging Study (MHAS) Ancillary Study on Cognitive Aging (Mex‐Cog). We statistically co‐calibrated memory and language domains and performed differential item functioning (DIF) analysis using a cultural neuropsychological approach. We examined relationships among harmonized scores, age, and education.

RESULTS

We included 3170 participants from the HRS‐HCAP (Mage = 76.6 [standard deviation (SD): 7.5], 60% female) and 2042 participants from the Mex‐Cog (Mage = 68.1 [SD: 9.0], 59% female). Five of seven memory items and one of twelve language items demonstrated DIF by study. Harmonized memory and language scores showed expected associations with age and education.

DISCUSSION

A cultural neuropsychological approach to harmonization facilitates the generation of harmonized measures of memory and language function in cross‐national studies.

HIGHLIGHTS

We harmonized memory and language scores across studies in the United States and Mexico.

A cultural neuropsychological approach to data harmonization was used.

Harmonized scores showed minimal measurement differences between cohorts.

Future work can use these harmonized scores for cross‐national studies of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
Effects of a phonics intervention in a randomized controlled study in Swedish second‐grade students at risk of reading difficulties
Authors: Lindström‐Sandahl Hanna , Elwér Åsa , Samuelsson Stefan , Danielsson Henrik
Published: September 2023

Teaching phoneme awareness to children at risk for early reading difficulties has been recognized as successful in several studies. In this randomized controlled trial (RCT)‐study, we add to this research by optimizing core procedural as well as teaching components in a phonics‐directed intervention and extend the RCT reading intervention research into a semi‐transparent language context. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of a novel Swedish intensive phonics program. This randomized controlled pre‐test and post‐test intervention study targeted second‐grade students with early reading difficulties. Students were identified by a repeated screening procedure and allocated to intervention (n = 34) and control (n = 34) conditions. A 9‐week intensive phonics‐based program was administrated one‐to‐one, by special education teachers in Swedish mainstream elementary schools. Results show an improvement in the intervention group, compared with the controls on all outcome measures. Findings indicate that the supplementary phonics program, delivered with high intensity, can significantly increase word reading skills and reading comprehension in second‐grade students with early reading difficulties.
Testing transpiration rates of juvenile Aleppo pine trees using the heat ratio method under laboratory conditions
Authors: Sabater Ana M. , Valiente José Antonio , Bellot Juan , Vilagrosa Alberto
Published: September 2023

Tree transpiration considerably contributes to evaporative fluxes to the atmosphere in terrestrial ecosystems. Accurate transpiration quantification provides relevant information about forest water use and may benefit adaptive forest management, especially in a global change context. Tree transpiration can be measured by several methods, and sap flow measurements are one of the most valued. However, species‐specific validations of these techniques are required to avoid undesirable bias. This is especially relevant in species with low transpiration rates where errors may be relevant, such as Aleppo pine trees (Pinus halepensis Mill.). Moreover, another significant source of uncertainty in sap flow measurements is probe misalignment. Hence, the aim of this study was to correlate transpiration rates estimated by sap flow probes using the heat ratio method (THRM) and load cells to independently monitor water transpiration in juvenile Aleppo pine trees. The corrections to improve transpiration measures, including misalignment correction, were applied to THRM results to test if the accuracy of results improved. These measurements were recorded in greenhouse under controlled conditions to implement different environmental conditions. The environmental variables that ruled the experiment, mainly vapour pressure deficit and soil water availability, spanned in a wide range of values. The results showed an accurate linear correspondence between TOBS and THRM for low and medium values, but moderate underestimations at high transpiration rates were observed. These underestimations were partly removed when applying probe misalignment correction. This study supports the notion that HRM offers accurate Aleppo pine transpiration estimations with low and medium values under a variety of abiotic conditions, which also has implications for HRM application in other isohydric species. The results also support the interest in the use of probe misalignment correction to estimate transpiration, mainly when high transpiration values are recorded. The results of this study can be considered as a preliminary approach for future research in order to improve the estimates of the transpiration rates of the Aleppo pine under the limiting conditions of the Mediterranean.
Assessing the association between genetic and phenotypic features of dilated cardiomyopathy and outcome in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Jones Richard E. , Hammersley Daniel J. , Zheng Sean , McGurk Kathryn A. , de Marvao Antonio , Theotokis Pantazis I. , Owen Ruth , Tayal Upasana , Rea Gillian , Hatipoglu Suzan , Buchan Rachel J. , Mach Lukas , Curran Lara , Lota Amrit S. , Simard François , Reddy Rohin K. , Talukder Suprateeka , Yoon Won Young , Vazir Ali , Pennell Dudley J. , O'Regan Declan P. , Baksi A. John , Halliday Brian P. , Ware James S. , Prasad Sanjay K.
Published: September 2023

Aims

To examine the relevance of genetic and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) features of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in individuals with coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods and results

This study includes two cohorts. First, individuals with CAD recruited into the UK Biobank (UKB) were evaluated. Second, patients with CAD referred to a tertiary centre for evaluation with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE)‐CMR were recruited (London cohort); patients underwent genetic sequencing as part of the research protocol and long‐term follow‐up. From 31 154 individuals with CAD recruited to UKB, rare pathogenic variants in DCM genes were associated with increased risk of death or major adverse cardiac events (hazard ratio 1.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.22–2.01, p < 0.001). Of 1619 individuals with CAD included from the UKB CMR substudy, participants with a rare variant in a DCM‐associated gene had lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) compared to genotype negative individuals (mean 47 ± 10% vs. 57 ± 8%, p < 0.001). Of 453 patients in the London cohort, 63 (14%) had non‐infarct pattern LGE (NI‐LGE) on CMR. Patients with NI‐LGE had lower LVEF (mean 38 ± 18% vs. 48 ± 16%, p < 0.001) compared to patients without NI‐LGE, with no significant difference in the burden of rare protein altering variants in DCM‐associated genes between groups (9.5% vs. 6.7%, odds ratio 1.5, 95% CI 0.4–4.3, p = 0.4). NI‐LGE was not independently associated with adverse clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

Rare pathogenic variants in DCM‐associated genes impact left ventricular remodelling and outcomes in stable CAD. NI‐LGE is associated with adverse remodelling but is not an independent predictor of outcome and had no rare genetic basis in our study.
Stereo‐ and Regiochemical Effect of N,N‐Dialkylamide Extractants on the Speciation of Pu Complexes
Authors: Lemire David , Dumas Thomas , Marie Cécile , Giusti Fabrice , Arrachart Guilhem , Dourdain Sandrine , Pellet‐Rostaing Stephane
Published: September 2023

The relationship between extractant stereochemistry and their extraction performance has only poorly been established. In order to address a part of this concern, we investigated the Pu(IV) liquid‐liquid extraction (LLE) by using the N,N‐di‐(2‐ethylhexyl)butyramide (DEHBA), as well as those of its position isomers. DEHBA (ββ‐isomer) and N‐(2‐ethylhexyl)‐N‐(oct‐3‐yl)butyramide (EHOBA or αβ‐isomer) were synthesized as a mixture of stereoisomer or stereoenriched (R,S)‐ and (S,S)‐diastereoisomers, and were all assessed for PuIV LLE. The results showed that both the position and the stereoisomerism of the aliphatic substituents affect PuIV complexation and extraction. We found that Pu extraction is lowered by factor 2 to 4 when the ethyl branching group is closer to the complexing site. UV‐vis spectroscopy showed that this extraction decrease was affected by steric hindrance inducing a deprivation of Pu inner sphere complex. Effect of stereoisomerism is highlighted for branching closer to the complexing site (α‐position). Enantiopure DEHBA stereoisomers provided similar Pu extraction, whereas a slight decrease could be noticed for the more cluttered stereoenriched (αβ)‐isomers, which was also concomitant with a smaller population of inner sphere complex. In contrast, the stereoisomers mixture led to a strong decrease of Pu extraction because of an antagonistic association in the mixed complexes.
Synthetic Applications of Sulfonium Salts as Aryl Radical Precursors
Authors: Wu Xinyin , Gao Pan , Chen Feng
Published: September 2023

The utilization of aryl radicals as open‐shelled intermediates has become an essential tool for both conventional and state‐of‐the‐art synthetic chemistry. However, the current methods for generating aryl radicals are still inefficient, greatly impeding their practical applications. Encouragingly, sulfonium salts have emerged as appealing sources of aryl radicals for a wide range of transformations aimed at creating novel chemical bonds driven by their distinctive structural attributes and chemical tendencies. This review primarily focuses on the specific reaction mechanisms underlying the cleavage of C−S bonds in sulfonium salts, leading to the generation of corresponding aryl radicals within diverse reaction conditions.
First report of Tunisian patients with CDKL5‐related encephalopathy
Authors: Charfi Triki Chahnez , Zouari Mallouli Salma , Ben Jdila Marwa , Ben Said Mariem , Kamoun Feki Fatma , Weckhuysen Sarah , Masmoudi Sabeur , Fakhfakh Faiza
Published: September 2023

Objective

Mutations in the cyclin‐dependent kinase‐like 5 gene (CDKL5) are associated with a wide spectrum of clinical presentations. Early‐onset epileptic encephalopathy (EOEE) is the most recognized phenotype. Here we describe phenotypic features in eight Tunisian patients with CDKL5‐related encephalopathy.

Methods

We included all cases with clinical features consistent with CDKL5‐related encephalopathy: infantile epileptic spasm, acquired microcephaly, movement disorders and visual impairment. We collected data about seizure types, electroencephalogram, magnetic resonance imaging, and metabolic analysis. The diagnosis of CDKL5 mutation was made thanks to Sanger sequencing with an ABI PRISM 3100‐Avant automated DNA sequencer using a Big Dye Terminator Cycle Sequencing Reaction Kit v1.1. and Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) since the development of a gene panel responsible for DEE within the framework of “Strengthening the Sfax University Expertise for diagnosis and management of epileptic encephalopathies”.

Results

We collected four boys and four girls aged meanly 6 years old with confirmed mutation on CDKL5 gene. Overall, we identified five de novo CDKL5 mutations including three Frame‐shift mutations, one missense mutation, and a splicing variant. The mean age at first seizure onset was 4 months. The first seizure type was infantile epileptic spasm (4/8) followed by tonic (2/8) and myoclonic seizures (2/8). Out of eight cases, four exhibited two stages epileptic course while epilepsy in three other patients progressed on three stages. Regarding development, most cases (6/8) had psychomotor retardation from the start whilst the two others showed psychomotor regression with the onset of seizures. Additional clinical features included visual impairment (7/8), tone abnormalities (7/8), stereotypies (7/8), and acquired microcephaly (6/8).

Significance

Our present report delineates an unusual phenotype of CDKL5‐related encephalopathy with male gender predominance and delayed onset epilepsy. It interestingly described new phenotypic features and uncommon benign developmental profiles in boys, different patterns of CDKL5‐epilepsy, neuroimaging findings, and CDKL5 mutational spectrum.
Bedload tracing with RFID tags in gravel‐bed rivers: Review and meta‐analysis after 20 years of field and laboratory experiments
Authors: Liébault Frédéric , Piégay Hervé , Cassel Mathieu , Arnaud Fanny
Published: September 2023

Soon after their first deployment in rivers in the early 2000s, RFID tags rapidly became the reference technology for bedload tracing in rivers. We can estimate from the literature that during the last 20 years, more than 30,000 RFID tracers have been injected in gravel‐bed rivers all around the world to study bedload transport. Many field experiments have been reported in a great diversity of fluvial environments, complemented by many laboratory experiments and methodological developments. This paper proposes a review of these works, notably based on the compilation of more than 350 RFID surveys, complemented by 97 magnetic surveys, for a total of 125 study sites. The meta‐analysis of this database shows that RFID tracers have improved our understanding of sediment transport in fluvial environments with rapid bedload dispersion. It is also shown that central positions of tracer plumes are moving faster over time than tracer leading fronts, as attested by a general relation between maximum and mean distances of transport. The most recent methodological developments based on the use of active UHF RFID tags show that it is now possible to conduct efficient bedload tracing experiments not only in small streams, but also in large gravel‐bed rivers or very active braided channels. Other addressed topics include RFID deployment and survey in river channels, controlling factors of tracer mobility (flow conditions, grain‐size and shape, channel morphology), bedload monitoring approaches using RFID tracers, and applications of RFID tracers for evaluating human effects on bedload transport. Key challenges of bedload tracing with RFID tags are also proposed.
Efficient selfish node detection using SVM in IoT‐MANET environment
Authors: Ghosh Subhankar , Banerjee Anuradha , Sufian Abu , Gupta Sachin Kumar , Alsamhi S. H. , Saif Abdu
Published: September 2023

The communication between nodes in the Internet of Things‐based mobile ad‐hoc networks environment is typically dependent on their selfless attitude. Whenever a node needs to send a message to another node in the network, it needs the help of one or more nodes to act as a router(s) that will bridge the gap between the source and the destination. All these selfless forwarding's require energy, bandwidth, and other resources. Therefore, some routers often raise a link breakage attack to save their resources. They keep silent after receiving a message; neither they acknowledge it nor they forward it. These selfish nodes must be identified and carefully avoided while choosing routes; otherwise, numerous messages will have to be resent, including control messages like route‐request. The identification depends on the past behavior of the node as well as velocity, the direction of movement, current geographical location and so forth. This article presents a support vector machine‐based node classification method that checks whether nodes are intentionally issuing a link breakage attack or it is really out of the radio range of its predecessor. The simulation results of the proposed method demonstrate that the proposed technique can correctly detect most of the selfish activities in the network and that also in much lesser time. It also enhances the packet delivery ratio and reduces delay and energy consumption.
The National Society for Experiential Education in Service‐Learning
Authors: Bailis Lawrence Neil
Published: September 2023

Professors do not have to reinvent the wheel when they teach service‐learning courses. The National Society for Experiential Education provides a variety of resources to help both novices and veterans succeed.
Antibiotic resistance and the COVID‐19 pandemic: A dual crisis with complex challenges in LMICs
Authors: Gulumbe Bashar Haruna , Sahal Muhammed Rabiu , Abdulrahim Abdulrakib , Faggo Abdullahi Adamu , Yusuf Zaharadeen Muhammad , Sambo Kabir Hassan , Usman Nazeef Idris , Bagwai Musbahu Abdullahi , Muhammad Wada Nafiu , Adamu Aliyu , Aminu Uzairu , Abubakar Munkaila Tirmizhi , Lawan Kadai Alhaji
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a global health crisis of mounting urgency, has been further complicated by the ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic. The intricate relationship between these two phenomena is especially pronounced in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) due to the distinct obstacles encountered by their healthcare systems and policy structures. This study aims to explore the complex challenges arising from the coexistence of these two crises in LMICs and proffer specific recommendations for holistic management.

Methods

An exhaustive bibliographic survey was executed, employing search queries in specialized databases such as PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science's SCI‐EXPANDED index. The timeframe for the literature search extended from January 2020 to January 2023. The search strategy employed key terms including antibiotic resistance, AMR, COVID‐19 pandemic, low‐ and middle‐income countries, SARS‐CoV‐2, and LMICs.

Results

The pandemic has aggravated various drivers of AMR in LMICs, including limited capabilities, weak frameworks, and socioeconomic factors. New challenges have emerged, such as disruptions in the antibiotic supply chain and an increased risk of healthcare‐associated infections. The interaction between these drivers presents a complex problem that demands a coordinated response. Specific recommendations include strengthening health systems, funding research and innovation, and enhancing infection prevention control measures.

Conclusion

The coexistence of AMR and the COVID‐19 pandemic in LMICs demands an integrated approach involving multiple stakeholders. Emphasis must be placed on constructing aligned regulatory frameworks, nurturing regional collaborations, and focusing on accessible therapeutic options. The study underscores the necessity for actionable strategies to achieve sustainable access to clean water and sanitation and also highlights the importance of long‐term planning, funding, and specialized expertise in emerging modalities like phage therapy.
Outcome findings of COVID‐19 vaccine among 31 977 pregnant women in Indonesia
Authors: Wiweko Budi , Januarto Ari K. , Saleh Nurdadi , Hadisaputra Wachyu , Hestiantoro Andon , Hidayat Yudi M. , Baharuddin Mohamad , Pusponegoro Arietta D. , Maidarti Mila , Dilmy M. Adya , Alamsyah Muhammad , Bachnas M. Adrianes , Hasanuddin Hasanuddin , Sahil M. Fauzi , Djanas H. Dovy , Effendy Yusuf , Sasotya R. M. Sonny , Rumekti Diah , Respati Supriyadi H. , Askandar Brahmana , Winarno Bayu , Gunawan Rudi , Irianta Trika , Wantania John , Abimanyu Bambang , Sofyan Okky , Kristanto Herman , Mahayasa Putu D. , Sutrisno Sutrisno , Demsi Demsi , Wiradhama Handy , Hamid Agus R. , Suhaimi Donel , Kaput John F. , Sayuti Marzuqi , Brizain Muhammad , Zainal Arifin Yanuarman , Muchtar Badarul B. , Paulus Laurens D. , Patai Apter , Abbas Marwan , Adhie Rully P. , Sulaiman M. Irwan , Taliak Daniel M. , Jabiy Filvanus , Dzakaria Elson , Siregar Fahreza A. , Hayatunnufus Yuli , Jovito Axel , Khairani Namira , Cahya Ni P. , Lukmana Arya A. , Yulinda Dafi
Published: September 2023

Objective

We provide an overview of the safety of messenger RNA and inactivated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccine and monitoring of pregnant women after COVID‐19 vaccination. The vaccine safety outcome profile is beneficial for further recommendations of COVID‐19 vaccination in pregnancy.

Methods

This research was conducted as descriptive research. Sampling was performed using an online questionnaire to be filled out voluntarily and distributed to all pregnant women in Indonesia who received the COVID‐19 vaccination. Data collection was performed and descriptive statistics were obtained.

Results

Among 31 977 pregnant women, 24 212 (75.7%) received the first dose, 7619 (23.8%) received the second dose, and 146 (4.5%) received the third dose of the COVID‐19 vaccine. Sinovac vaccine is the most administered vaccine to pregnant women (27 122 [84%]). Most pregnant women (78.7%) who were vaccinated had no adverse effects after immunization, while the most reported adverse effects were mild symptoms.

Conclusion

The current study contributed evidence that COVID‐19 vaccination during pregnancy has minimal adverse effects. These findings may help pregnant women and healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding vaccination.
Application and progress of X‐ray, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging radiomics in osteosarcoma
Authors: Peihong Teng , Lingling Ren , Haifeng Hao , Chang Liu , Guifeng Liu
Published: September 2023

Looking back on the development of radiomics in osteosarcoma over recent years, in addition to distinguishing osteosarcoma from other malignant bone tumors (mainly Ewing's sarcoma), more research directions are using radiomics to evaluate and predict the efficacy and survival of patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Among the three commonly used examination methods of X‐ray, CT, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), more and more studies have been conducted on MRI‐based radiomics, which fully reflects the advantages of MRI's high soft tissue contrast, multi‐sequence imaging, and most of the studies used a combination of imaging features and clinical features to make predictions. Some articles also considered relevant laboratory examination results and more and more studies are performing external verification. The field is now gradually developing toward multidimensional data and multicenter cooperation and data sharing.
pH‐responsive resveratrol‐loaded ZIF‐8 nanoparticles modified with tannic acid for promoting colon cancer cell apoptosis
Authors: Sun Xueqiang , Li Fuxin , Yuan Lingyan , Bing Zhitong , Li Xun , Yang Kehu
Published: September 2023

Resveratrol (Res) is known for its potential in treating various types of cancers, with a particular advantage of causing minimal toxic side effects. However, its clinical application is constrained by challenges such as poor bioavailability, low water solubility, and chemical instability in neutral and alkaline environments. In light of these limitations, we have developed a pH‐responsive drug delivery nanoplatform, Res@ZIF‐8/TA NPs, which exhibits good biocompatibility and shows promise for in vitro cancer therapy. Benefiting from the mild reaction conditions provided by zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), a “one‐pot method” was used for drug synthesis and loading, resulting in a satisfactory loading capacity. Notably, Res@ZIF‐8/TA NPs respond to acidic environments, leading to an improved drug release profile with a controlled release effect. Our cell‐based experiments indicated that tannic acid (TA) modification enhances the biocompatibility of ZIFs. 3‐(4,5)‐dimethylthiahiazo (‐z‐y1)‐3,5‐di‐ phenytetrazoliumromide (MTT assay), Hoechst 33342/PI staining, cell scratch assay, Transwell and Reverse Transcription quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR) assays further demonstrated that Res@ZIF‐8/TA NPs inhibited colon cancer cell migration and invasion, and promoted apoptosis of colon cancer cells, suggesting a therapeutic potential and demonstrating anti‐cancer properties. In conclusion, the Res@ZIF‐8/TA NPs pH‐responsive drug delivery systems we developed may offer a promising avenue for cancer therapy. By addressing some of the challenges associated with Res‐based treatments, this system could contribute to advancements in cancer therapeutics.
NOD2 silencing promotes cell apoptosis and inhibits drug resistance in chronic lymphocytic leukemia by inhibiting the NF‐κB signaling pathway
Authors: Zheng Cuiping , Zhu Zongsi , Weng Shanshan , Zhang Qikai , Fu Yixiao , Cai Xiaoping , Liu Zhen , Shi Yuejian
Published: September 2023

Recent years have witnessed increasing studies on the effect of epigenetic silencing of genes in the progression of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). This study investigates whether the nucleotide binding oligomerization domain containing 2 (NOD2) participates in the cell apoptosis and drug resistance of CLL cells. Cells were treated with adriamycin (ADR), etoposide, aclacinomycin and daunorubicin. After treatment, drug resistance and cell proliferation were examined to detect the inhibitory effect of ADR on cell proliferation; flow cytometry to identify ADR accumulation, the cell cycle distribution and apoptosis after transfection, and rhodamine 123 accumulation and efflux tests to assess P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) function. NOD2 silencing or inhibition of the nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐κB) signaling pathway suppressed the multidrug resistance level in CLL, the inhibition rate, and cell proliferation caused by ADR at concentrations of approximately 0.25−1.5 μmol/L. Greater accumulation of ADR was observed in the CLL‐AAT cell line than in the CLL‐AAT/A02 cell line, but NOD2 silencing or inhibition of the NF‐κB signaling pathway further increased the accumulation of ADR drugs in the CLL‐AAT cell line and inhibited the drug efflux pump function of P‐gp. Additionally, NOD2 silencing or NF‐κB signaling pathway inhibition increased the apoptotic rate. The results of this study indicate that NOD2 promotes cell apoptosis and reduces the drug resistance of CLL by inhibiting the NF‐κB signaling pathway.
USP31 serves as a potential biomarker for predicting prognosis and immune responses for clear cell renal cell carcinoma via single‐cell and bulk RNA‐sequencing
Authors: Yu Yaoyu , Chen Guihua , Jiang Chao , Guo Tuanjie , Tang Heting , Yuan Zhihao , Wang Yi , Tan Xiangyin , Chen Jinyuan , Zhang Encheng , Wang Xiang
Published: September 2023

Background

Currently, there is no research available on the prognosis, potential effect and therapeutic value of USP31 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). To address this gap, the present study aimed to shed light on its potential roles and possible mechanisms in ccRCC.

Methods

R software was utilized to conduct bioinformatics analyses with the data derived from The Cancer Genome Atlas (i.e. KIRC) and Gene Expression Omnibus datasets. The expression of USP31 in ccRCC was validated by a PCR. The independent prognostic ability of USP31 was evaluated by Cox regression analysis. We conducted gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) to explore the potential USP31‐related pathways. We also discussed the relationships between USP31 and immunity, by predicting its possible upstream transcription factors (TFs) by ChEA3.

Results

In ccRCC, USP31 demonstrated a high level of expression and this increased expression was correlated with a poor prognosis (p < 0.05). Through univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, USP31 was identified as an independent prognostic factor for ccRCC (p < 0.05). Furthermore, eight USP31‐related pathways were identified by GSEA (p < 0.05). Moreover, USP31 was found to be associated with microsatellite instability, tumor microenvironment, a variety of immune cells and immune checkpoints and immune infiltration (p < 0.05). Additionally, Patients with high USP31 expression in ccRCC were shown to have better curative effects after immunotherapy (p < 0.05). Finally, we found that AR, USF1, MXI1 and CLOCK could be the potential upstream TFs of USP31.

Conclusions

USP31 could serve as a potential biomarker for predicting both prognosis and immune responses, revealing its potential mechanisms of TF‐USP31 mRNA networks in ccRCC.