bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the Enigma: A Challenging Diagnostic Journey to Oculocutaneous Sarcoidosis
Authors: Kulasinghe Udari , Jagoda Jayathri
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Sarcoidosis is a complex, multisystem disorder characterized by the formation of non-caseating granulomas in various organs, most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes. Ocular involvement is frequent, occurring in up to 78% of patients, while skin manifestations are seen in approximately 25–35% of patients. Here we present a case of a 13-year-old boy with generalized body pain that later evolved to oculocutaneous sarcoidosis.

Case Report

A 13-year-old Sri Lankan boy presented in 2021 with severe generalized body pain, bilateral cervical lymph node swelling, occasional fever, and elevated inflammatory markers. Initial investigations for infections, malignancies, and autoimmune diseases were inconclusive. Lymph node biopsy suggested toxoplasmosis, but serological tests were normal. He later developed left eye visual blurring and periorbital swelling, with MRI showing left optic neuritis and orbital soft tissue oedema. Treatment with IV Methylprednisolone and oral prednisolone resolved his symptoms but was lost to follow-up. A year later, he presented with transient self-resolving subcutaneous nodules over trunk and limbs. due to its transient nature. ANA, RF, ACE level, serum Calcium, serum protein electrophoresis and IgG4 levels were negative. He was started on steroids, Methotrexate, and Infliximab assuming the possibility of autoinflammatory syndrome or sarcoidosis. In 2024 he again developed bilateral submandibular and cervical lymphadenopathy with acute right side visual blurring. MRI showed right optic neuritis and lacrimal gland swelling. (Figure 1) Lymph node Biopsy confirmed non-caseating granulomas. (Figure 2). Based on the findings, a diagnosis of oculocutaneous sarcoidosis was made. Treatment with steroids, methotrexate and Adalimumab was initiated, resulting in a remarkable response.

Conclusion

Sarcoidosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis in cases of optic neuritis with lymphadenopathy and cutaneous manifestations. Diagnosis of oculocutaneous sarcoidosis is challenging and often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving dermatologists, ophthalmologists, and rheumatologists.
Infection - The Comrade of Acute Pancreatitis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Series from Single Tertiary Centre in India
Authors: Haque Israrul , Ghosh Parasar , Sircar Geetabali , Ghosh Biswadip , Sinhamahapatra Pradyot
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

Acute Pancreatitis in systemic lupus Erythematous is rare but has high mortality. Incidence varies from 1-5% and reported mortality is 3-37.04% with mortality being higher in juvenile SLE.

Objective:

Study of Clinical and serological profile of SLE patients presenting with acute pancreatitis.

Method:

Retrospective data of SLE patients visiting our institution was collected. Diagnosis was considered if patients had clinical + biochemical and radiological evidence of pancreatitis. Patients with diagnosis of gallstone, history of alcohol intake, serum Triglycerides>500 mg/dl, serum calcium>10.5 mg/dl and taking Azathioprine at the time of diagnosis were excluded.

Results:

9 patients fulfilled inclusion and exclusion criteria. 7 had severe and 2 had moderately severe acute pancreatitis. Female: Male ratio was 8:1, Median age was 25(15-50) years, Median disease duration 12 months (3-48), 4(44.45%) presented within 1 year of disease onset. Mean SELENA-SLEDAI at the time of presentation was 26(19-41). 4(44.45%) were on corticosteroids at the time of presentation. Other active domains at the time of diagnosis were Nephritis in 7(77.78%), NPLE in 3(33.34%), Myositis in 4(44.45%), Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia in 2 (22.22%), Macrophage activation syndrome in 4 (44.45%) enteritis in 1 (11.11%) Myocarditis in 2 (22.22%) and Mucocutaneous in 9 (100%) patients.

All patients had elevated Serum Amylase and Lipase level with Median serum Amylase being 545 Units/Litre (normal[Formula: see text]176) and median serum Lipase being 511 ([Formula: see text]160) Units/litre. 6(66.67%) had hypocalcemia and 5 (55.56%) had hypertriglyceridemia. Raised dsDNA was seen in 9(100%, median 277 IU/ml) and hypocomplementemia was seen in 7(77.78%, Median C3 value 49 mg/dL)). None of the patients had associated antiphospholipid syndrome but persistent antiphospholipid antibodies were present in 5(55.56%)-4 had lupus anticoagulant and 1 had Anticardiolipin antibody.

6(66.67%) patients had microbiologically confirmed infection the time of diagnosis of acute pancreatitis (4 bacterial and 1 fungal) among which 3 had lower respiratory tract infection, 1 had urinary tract infection, 1 had pseudomembranous colitis and 1 had peri-pancreatic abscess. 7 patients received only corticosteroids, and 2 patients received IVIG with corticosteroids. 3 out of 9 patients (33.34%) expired due to multi-organ failure. Out of 6 surviving patients all received IV cyclophosphamide (NIH protocol) and are doing fine.

Conclusion:

Acute pancreatitis in SLE has high mortality probably due to associated high clinical and serological disease activity and high incidence of concomitant infection. Extensive investigation for underlying infection (bacterial, viral and fungal) should be done in SLE patients presenting with acute pancreatitis for comprehensive management.
Clinical Profile and Outcome of Pulmonary Hypertension With and Without Interstitial Lung Disease in Scleroderma
Authors: Jacob Manna , Mathew Ashish , Goel Ruchika , Mathew John
Published: November 2024

Background:

Scleroderma associated pulmonary arterial hypertension and interstitial lung disease (ILD) with pulmonary hypertension are considered to be separate pathological processes with different approach to management. In this study, we looked at the demographics, clinical features, and outcome of patients with both type of pulmonary hypertension in systemic sclerosis

Methods:

Patients diagnosed with scleroderma and with pulmonary hypertension as per transthoracic ECHO in the time period between 2010 and 2023 were retrospectively identified enrolled in the study. They were divided into two groups-isolated PAH and ILD-PH. ECHO parameters, clinical data were recorded

Results:

There were 800 patients with a diagnosis of systemic sclerosis during this period. In total, 49 incident scleroderma PH cases were identified (6.13%); 25 with diffuse cutaneous SSc (51.02%), 19 with limited cutaneous SSc (38.78%), and 5 with sine scleroderma (10.2%). Among the study group, 39 (79.59%) patients had ILD with PH and 10 (20.4%) had isolated PH (Table 1). Though the baseline ECHO parameters were similar in both the groups, features of severe PH - Right atrial and ventricular dilatation with Right ventricular dysfunction was more in Isolated PH than ILD-PH (50% vs 23%). Other clinical features were similar in both the groups (Table 2). Isolated PH was treated with vasodilatory therapy and all patients with ILD -PAH were treated with immunosuppression along with vasodilatory therapy. Follow up of ECHO parameters of the two groups at the end of 2 years showed better improvement in the ILD-PH group. Unsatisfactory long-term outcome as defined by clinical NYHA progression, hospitalization and need for long term oxygen therapy was similar in both isolated PH and PH-ILD (40% vs 41%). 1 year survival was 95.9% (2/49 lost to follow up).

Conclusions:

The prevalence of Pulmonary Hypertension in our scleroderma cohort of a tertiary care center was 6.13%. ILD-PH was 4 times more prevalent than isolated PH.46.94% of all our PH patients had it at presentation. The one-year survival of our cohort was 95.9% almost equivalent to other international cohorts
Pachydermoperiostosis (Touraine-Solente–Gole Syndrome): A Case Report of Primary Hypertrophic Osteoarthropathy
Authors: Islam Asif , Shahid Kinza , Khurshid Fatima , Khalood Memoona
Published: November 2024

Background:

Pachydermoperiostosis (PDP), or primary hypertrophic osteoarthropathy (PHO), also known as the Touraine–Solente–Gole syndrome, is a genetic disorder that is uncommon and is identified by finger clubbing, skin thickening, and periosteal growth.

Case Report:

This case study details the case of a 21-year-old man with PDP to raise awareness, improve diagnosis, and enhance management strategies for the condition. The individual showed common signs like digital clubbing, pachydermia, and periostosis, as well as related symptoms like hyperhidrosis. Radiological imaging supported the diagnosis by revealing periosteal reactions and cortical thickening in multiple bones. Other conditions with comparable clinical characteristics were considered in the differential diagnosis, however, the diagnosis of PHO was confirmed by the specific radiological results and normal hormonal levels. The treatment primarily targets alleviating symptoms with drugs like NSAIDs and corticosteroids, along with newer options such as bisphosphonates.

Conclusion:

Timely detection and correct treatment are essential to enhance the well-being of people with PHO. This case study emphasizes the significance of tracking symptoms and offering thorough care to those with PDP/PHO.
Treatment Escalation of JIA in Local Setting: Timing, Role of Disease Activity Index
Authors: Ho Assunta Chi Hang , Kwong Hiu Ching , Chan Oi Man
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The paradigm of managing JIA has been changing. There is ongoing discussion whether using bDMARDs early in the treatment course is superior to sequential use after cDMARDs1. On the other hand, with a treat to target approach, it is shown both approaches achieve comparable outcome2.

We aim to investigate the real life experience of a single-centre JIA cohort regarding treatment escalation, including the timing and the role of disease activity index.

Method

A chart review on all the JIA attending the Paediatric Rheumatology Clinic at the Prince of Wales Hospital between JUL 2023 to AUG 2024 was performed. SJIA was excluded as it follows different treatment algorithm. Outcome of interests are time to cDMARDs or bDMARDs from first clinic visit, time to escalation to cDMARDs and bDMARDs, disease activity indexes (cJADAS, BASDAI and BASFI for ERA) at the time of treatment escalation. Results are presented in descriptive analysis.

Result

Total 17 cases with 30 treatment escalation events were recorded. The median age at last FU was 15 years old (IQR 9.5-18.5), with a median duration of FU of 51 months (IQR 25-79.5). For the whole group the median time from first clinic visit to cDMARDs was 1 month (IQR 0-26), to bDMARDs was 12 months (IQR 5-33). 3 cases required further switch.

The median time to 1st treatment escalation was 1 month (IQR 0-26). The median time between 1st and 2nd treatment escalation was 4.5 months (IQR 3-17). These usually involved change from cDMARDs to bDMARDs.

cJADAS scores were recorded at the time of switch in 23 events. The median score at each treatment escalation was 14 (IQR 8.9-18). It signified high or moderate disease activity in oligoarticular or polyarticular course JIA, respectively.

For the eight ERA, the median time to first cDMARDs was 6 months (IQR 0-28). It was 17 months (IQR 3-29) to next treatment, mostly bDMARDs. Regarding disease activity index at the time of switch, the median cJADAS of 13 events was 11.2 (IQR 6.5-14), ie moderate disease activity, while the median BASDAI of 14 events was 2.55 (IQR2.07-4.4), ie not active disease.

Conclusion

Overall the timing of cDMARDs use, treatment switch and performance of cJADAS were inline with other centres. In this small cohort BASDAI is not optimal in terms of indicating treatment switch in ERA.

1 Kimura Y et al. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2021 Oct;73(10):1898-1909.

2 Hissink Muller P et a1. Ann. Rheum. Dis. 2019;78:51–59
Final Outcome Analysis of Hospitalized Patients with Suspected NPSLE: A Retrospective Single-Center Study
Authors: Fang Wei Ting
Published: November 2024

Background:

Neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) is a serious complication in SLE, and distinguishing these manifestations from other neuropsychiatric disorders is challenging.

Method:

This was a retrospective single-center study. NP manifestations were attributed to SLE according to clinical experts’ opinions. Demographic and clinical data were obtained in patients with and without NP manifestations attributed to SLE. And antibodies profiles were included for hierarchical cluster analysis, analyze the correlation between different antibody clusters and clinical manifestations of SLE.

Results:

The final analysis group included 176 patients, of which 151 (85.8%) had NP manifestations attributed by SLE. 1, The positive rates of anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) and anti-SSB of NPSLE patients and the levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG) were significantly higher in comparison with those NP symptoms not attributed to SLE (non-NPSLE) patients [145 (96.0%) vs 18 (72.0%), P [Formula: see text] 0.001; 23 (15.2%) vs 0 (0.0%), P=0.048; median 23.5 vs 9.6 points, IQR 10.00, 48.25 vs 7.58,15.83 points, P [Formula: see text] 0.01; respectively]. The levels of C4 and the proportion of patients with concomitant hemolytic anemia were lower than non-NPSLE [median 0.09 vs 0.15 points, IQR 0.05, 0.14 vs 0.07, 0.17 points, P [Formula: see text] 0.01; 9 (6.0%) vs 7 (28.0%), P [Formula: see text] 0.005; respectively]; 2, NP manifestations in the central nervous system were the most frequent (86.9%). In patients with NPSLE, cerebrovascular disease, seizures, headche occurred most often; Among non-NPSLE, common causes included infection, non-specific cerebrovascular disease, hematological disease; 3, Four clusters among 151 NPSLE patients were identified. Cluster 1 comprised patients with triple aPLs (antiphospholipid antibodies) positivity and demonstrates a high incidence of cerebrovascular disease, seizure, Cluster 2 was characterized by high positive rates of anti-SSA and anti-SSB, with high risk of system damage such as mucocutaneous, renal. Cluster 3 was characterized by a high positive rate of anti Sm, mainly present with aseptic meningitis and polyneuropathy, often accompanied by renal and hematological involvement. Cluster 4 was characterized by high positive rates of anti Ro52, anti RNP (ribosome P protein), includes seizure and demyelinating syndrome.

Conclusion:

Four characterized antibody clusters are identified in NPSLE patients in this study. Different clusters are associated with certain clinical features and complications of NPSLE. However, the correlations found in this study need to be investigated further in larger populations.
Bilateral Sacroiliitis in a Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Unraveling the Rope: A Case Report
Authors: Madubashini Liyana Arachchige Dona Thulini , De Silva Monika , Premarathne Bathiya , Dissanayake Melina
Published: November 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and spondyloarthritis(SpA) are chronic inflammatory disorders with unique symptoms and pathologies. Misclassification of these two entities is prevalent due to overlapping clinical features and the presence of typical symptoms for both disorders. Rheumatoid nodules are one of the most common extra articular manifestations in rheumatoid arthritis, usually associated with severe disease activity. Herein, we describe a case of rheumatoid arthritis with bilateral sacroiliitis, an uncommon joint involvement of rheumatoid arthritis, and accelerated subcutaneous nodulosis after treatment with adalimumab.

Introduction

RA is a chronic, autoimmune disorder that primarily affects peripheral synovial joints [1]. The axial skeleton is usually spared other than the cervical spine, particularly C1 to C2 [1]. Though sacroiliitis is a paramount sign of SpA, it can be rarely observed in RA [2]. The commonest extra-articular manifestation of RA is subcutaneous nodules, which can be accelerated with RA treatments [3]. Herein, we describe a patient presented with bilateral sacroiliitis, along with the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges we surmounted.

Case presentation

A-45-years-old female presented with a one-year history of inflammatory arthritis of bilateral metacarpophalangeal, wrist, and ankle joints. She also had inflammatory-type back pain with buttock pain and plantar fasciitis. The Left-sided Faber test was positive. The laboratory investigations revealed elevated inflammatory markers, negative RF and HLA-B27. MRI-SI joints revealed bilateral active sacroiliitis. She was treated as SpA with NSAIDS at first, followed by subcutaneous adalimumab due to inadequate response. Though arthritis improved following adalimumab, multiple firm subcutaneous nodules occurred in the extensor surface of the elbow and hands after six-doses of adalimumab. Biopsy was compatible with rheumatoid nodule and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide was positive. Based on the presence of rheumatoid nodules and positive anti-CCP antibodies, the patient was diagnosed with seropositive RA and bilateral sacroiliitis, an unusual joint involvement in RA.

Discussion

Sacroiliitis is the paramount clinical sign in SpA [2]. However, it can be seen in a wide range of disease conditions [4]. Misclassification between SpA and RA can occur due to overlapping clinical manifestations [4].

 The Rheumatoid nodule is the most common cutaneous manifestation of RA and often seen in seropositive RA and more severe disease [3]. There have been case reports of accelerated subcutaneous nodulosis in patient with RA, treated with MTX, leflunomide, azathioprine, TNF alfa inhibitors and tocilizumab [3].

 Though Inflammatory back pain, active sacroiliitis, and plantar fasciitis mislead the diagnosis, rheumatoid nodules and positive anti-CCP antibodies aid the classification of RA.
Risk of New-Onset Inflammatory Central Nervous System Diseases After Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors Treatment for Autoimmune Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xie Wenhui
Published: November 2024

Background:

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors have been extensively utilized to treat various autoimmune diseases. However, there are ongoing debates about the risk of inflammatory central nervous system (CNS) diseases events following TNF inhibitors therapy, as well as uncertainty about how this risk varies across different autoimmune diseases or TNF blocking agents. We aimed to evaluate the risk of inflammatory CNS diseases after anti-TNF initiation and assess the difference in risk among different types of underlying autoimmune diseases, or TNF inhibitors.

Method:

Separate searches were conducted across PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library from inception until March 1, 2024. Observational studies assessing the association between anti-TNF therapy and inflammatory CNS diseases relative to a comparator group. Study eligibility assessment and data extraction were independently conducted by two investigators following PRISMA guidelines. The risk ratio (RR) was used as the effect measure of the pooled analysis. The primary outcome was the risk of incident inflammatory CNS events after anti-TNF therapy for autoimmune diseases. Secondary analyses were performed based on different types of underlying autoimmune diseases and TNF inhibitors.

Results:

Eighteen studies involving 1,118,428 patients with autoimmune diseases contributing over 5,698,532 person-years of follow-up were analyzed. The incidence rates of new-onset inflammatory CNS events after initiating TNF inhibitors ranged from 2.0 to 13.4 per 10,000 person-years. Overall, exposure to TNF inhibitors was associated with a 33% increased risk of any inflammatory CNS diseases compared to conventional therapies (RR = 1.36, 95%CI 1.01-1.84; I2 = 49%), mainly attributed to demyelinating diseases (RR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.04-1.81; I2 = 31%). Secondary analyses revealed a similar risk of inflammatory CNS diseases across different types of underlying autoimmune diseases (rheumatic diseases: RR 1.36, 95%CI 0.84-2.21; inflammatory bowel disease 1.49, 95%CI 0.93-2.40; P for subgroup = 0.74) and TNF inhibitors (anti-TNF monoclonal antibodies versus etanercept: RR 1.04, 95%CI 0.93-1.15, I2 = 0%).

Conclusions:

Compared to conventional therapies, exposure to TNF inhibitors exposure was associated with a 36% increased risk of inflammatory CNS diseases, irrespective of background autoimmune diseases or TNF inhibitor types.
Empirical Likelihood in Functional Data Analysis
Authors: Chang Hsin-wen , McKeague Ian W.
Published: November 2024

Functional data analysis (FDA) studies data that include infinite-dimensional functions or objects, generalizing traditional univariate or multivariate observations from each study unit. Among inferential approaches without parametric assumptions, empirical likelihood (EL) offers a principled method in that it extends the framework of parametric likelihood ratio–based inference via the nonparametric likelihood. There has been increasing use of EL in FDA due to its many favorable properties, including self-normalization and the data-driven shape of confidence regions. This article presents a review of EL approaches in FDA, starting with finite-dimensional features, then covering infinite-dimensional features. We contrast smooth and nonsmooth frameworks in FDA and show how EL has been incorporated into both of them. The article concludes with a discussion of some future research directions, including the possibility of applying EL to conformal inference.
Effect of Thai Herbal Remedy NL Inhibits Lipid Accumulation on 3T3‐L1 Adipocyte Cells
Authors: Warinhomhoun Sakan , Viwatpinyo Kittikun , Nokkaew Nuttikarn , Limcharoen Thanchanok , Ngamdokmai Ngamrayu
Published: November 2024

Obesity is a global health concern, steadily rising and posing risks to various health conditions. Despite available antiobesity drugs, their withdrawal due to severe side effects highlights the need for safer alternatives. Natural products, particularly mixed herbal formulations, present a promising avenue in obesity research. This study aimed to investigate the potential antiobesity effects of the NL herbal formula, a traditional remedy in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, composed of nine herbs. The specific focus was on the inhibitory effects on α‐glucosidase and pancreatic lipase enzyme activities, adipogenesis inhibition and lipolysis promotion. NL extract was phytochemically analyzed and assessed for its inhibitory effects on α‐glucosidase and pancreatic lipase. Its impact on lipid accumulation and glycerol release was also evaluated. Phytochemical analysis using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS‐MS) identified piperine as the major compound in the NL extract. NL extract exhibited significant inhibition of α‐glucosidase, moderate pancreatic lipase inhibition, and dose‐dependent reduction in fat accumulation and triglyceride content. Glycerol release increased compared to the control, indicating potential benefits in weight management. This research underscores the potential of the NL formula in combating obesity through its effects on adipogenesis, lipolysis, and enzyme activities. Further investigations into the molecular mechanisms are warranted to fully elucidate its therapeutic potential.
On Closedness of Some Homotypical Varieties of Semigroups
Authors: Alam Noor , Shah Aftab Hussain , Bano Sakeena , Obeidat Sofian , Diab Nabawia Shaban , Altaleb Anas
Published: November 2024

It is well known that every subvariety of the variety of semigroups need not be absolutely closed. Thus, identifying those subvarieties that are closed in themselves or in larger varieties is an interesting open problem in the theory of semigroup dominions. The significance of finding such varieties lies in the fact that, in these varieties, epimorphisms are precisely the surjective morphisms. In this paper, we address this problem and demonstrate that for each , the varieties of semigroups , where i ∈ {1, 2, 3} and j is any nontrivial permutation of {1, 2, 3} not fixing 1 when i = 2, are closed.
A Blockchain Approach to Extract Design Patterns From Source Codes
Authors: Rezaei Shahla , Esmaeilpour Mansour , Hatamlou Abdolreza , Adabi Sepideh
Published: November 2024

Design patterns are an effective technique for software development. However, lacking suitable documents often reduces traceability, and advantages remain unclear in source lines of code (SLOC). Design patterns are proven, reliable solutions to several frequent problems in object‐oriented software design. Detecting design patterns in a software system contributes to maintainability and reengineering and facilitates understanding codes. Furthermore, different design pattern implementations impede the detection of code pattern instances. A design pattern is a set of roles played by the code classes. Roles are the main details and determinants in patterns. A pattern can be detected in its defined role as it is an instance of a role. It is also of great importance in system documentation. The proposed method exploits blockchain‐based approaches for pattern mining and isolating design patterns in order to identify intercode relationships. The results demonstrate that the blockchain is effective and efficient in extracting the connections of features from source codes and adapting to design patterns with precision 97.2%.
An Innovative Application of Swarm‐Based Algorithms for Peer Clustering
Authors: Šešum-Čavić Vesna , Kühn Eva , Toifl Laura
Published: November 2024

In most peer‐to‐peer (P2P) networks, peers are placed randomly or based on their geographical position, which can lead to a performance bottleneck. This problem can be solved by using peer clustering algorithms. In this paper, the significant results of the paper can be described in the following sentences. We propose two innovative swarm‐based metaheuristics for peer clustering, slime mold and slime mold K‐means. They are competitively benchmarked, evaluated, and compared to nine well‐known conventional and swarm‐based algorithms: artificial bee colony (ABC), ABC combined with K‐means, ant‐based clustering, ant K‐means, fuzzy C‐means, genetic K‐means, hierarchical clustering, K‐means, and particle swarm optimization (PSO). The benchmarks cover parameter sensitivity analysis and comparative analysis made by using 5 different metrics: execution time, Davies–Bouldin index (DBI), Dunn index (DI), silhouette coefficient (SC), and averaged dissimilarity coefficient (ADC). Furthermore, a statistical analysis is performed in order to validate the obtained results. Slime mold and slime mold K‐means outperform all other swarm‐inspired algorithms in terms of execution time and quality of the clustering solution.
Lesser‐Explored Edible Flowers as a Choice of Phytochemical Sources for Food Applications
Authors: Valencia-Cordova Mariel Guadalupe , Jaguey-Hernández Yari , Castañeda-Ovando Araceli , González-Olivares Luis Guillermo , Castañeda-Ovando E. Pedro , Añorve-Morga Javier , de la O-Arciniega Minarda
Published: November 2024

Flowers have been commonly used in cooking to add color and flavor to dishes. In addition to enhancing the visual appeal of food, many edible flowers also contain bioactive compounds that promote good health. These compounds include antimicrobial, antihypertensive, nephroprotective, antiulcer, and anticancer agents. In the last 5 years, there have been 95 published reviews about edible flowers. Among these, 43% have concentrated on Food Science and Technology, while 32% have analyzed their effects on human health. Most of these edible flowers are commonly consumed, but some are less known due to limited distribution or seasonality. These lesser‐explored flowers often contain compounds that offer significant health advantages. Therefore, this review focuses on exploring the characteristics, phytochemical composition, and bioactive compounds found in less commonly examined edible flowers. The flowers included in this review are peonies, forget‐me‐nots, frangipani, alpine roses, wild roses, hibiscus species, common lilacs, woodland geraniums, camellias, Aztec marigolds, kiri flowers, sunflowers, yucca flower, hollyhocks, and cornflowers. Due to their diverse biological activities, these flowers provide various health benefits and can be used to be incorporated into food and supplements or develop mainly cancer‐fighting medications.
Classification and Comparative Evaluation of Text and Emoji‐Based Tweets With Deep Neural Network Models
Authors: Chandra Sekhar J. N. , Kiran Mayee M. , Nadagoudar Ranjana , Chinna Alluraiah N. , Dhanamjayulu C. , Chinthaginjala Ravikumar , K. Ravi , M. Praveenkumar , Mohanty Satyajit , Khan Baseem
Published: November 2024

Emojis have become increasingly prevalent in today’s digital world, allowing individuals to convey a wide range of emotions, from uncomplicated to intricate, to a greater extent than previously. Consequently, emojis are being utilized in sentiment analysis and tailored marketing strategies. The ongoing research on conducting emotion detection on both tweets and a symbolic expression dataset sourced from Kaggle. Given that tweets are largely commentaries, we utilized two end‐to‐end sentence embedding models, the DistilBERT, USE‐Large3, and RoBERTa, which generate embeddings. These embeddings are further utilized for training with dense neural networks (NNs) and LSTM techniques. Remarkably, it was perceived that the text classification accuracy for both models was consistently high, hovering around 98%. However, when the validation set is constructed with that of symbolic expression or emojis not included in the training dataset, a significant drop in accuracy for both models, plummeting to 75%, had been observed. Additionally, a distributed training methodology is utilized as a substitute for the conventional single‐threaded model to enhance scalability. This approach resulted in a roughly 17% reduction in the runtime while maintaining accuracy. Lastly, in pursuit of explainable AI, the SHAP and LIME algorithms are employed to elucidate the model’s behavior and assess any potential biases in the dataset. The creative use of advanced deep NN techniques customized for the delicate complexities of hybrid‐data sentiment analysis indicates a significant leap forward. Our proposed work provides the critical gap in existing sentiment analysis methods, which primarily aimed at either text or emojis in isolation, thereby exploring more holistic understanding of sentiment in digital communications. Moreover, the application of explainable AI techniques, SHAP and LIME, to demystify model decisions emphasizes commitment to advancing transparent and trustworthy deep learning technologies in sentiment analysis.
Table 3 from Region-Based Analyses of Existing Genome-Wide Association Studies Identifies Novel Potential Genetic Susceptibility Regions for Glioma
Authors: Alpen Karen , Maclnnis Robert J. , Vajdic Claire M. , Lai John , Dowty James G. , Koh Eng-Siew , Hovey Elizabeth , Harrup Rosemary , Nguyen Tuong L. , Li Shuai , Joseph David , Benke Geza , Dugué Pierre-Antoine , Southey Melissa C. , Giles Graham G. , Nowak Anna K. , Drummond Katharine J. , Schmidt Daniel F. , Hopper John L. , Kapuscinski Miroslaw K. , Makalic Enes
Published: November 2024

Odds ratio and P values for rs2346609 and rs35042965 by study and by sex
Table 2 from Region-Based Analyses of Existing Genome-Wide Association Studies Identifies Novel Potential Genetic Susceptibility Regions for Glioma
Authors: Alpen Karen , Maclnnis Robert J. , Vajdic Claire M. , Lai John , Dowty James G. , Koh Eng-Siew , Hovey Elizabeth , Harrup Rosemary , Nguyen Tuong L. , Li Shuai , Joseph David , Benke Geza , Dugué Pierre-Antoine , Southey Melissa C. , Giles Graham G. , Nowak Anna K. , Drummond Katharine J. , Schmidt Daniel F. , Hopper John L. , Kapuscinski Miroslaw K. , Makalic Enes
Published: November 2024

P values for candidate novel risk regions from the discovery, validation, and meta-analysis including the lowest P value SNP from each region
Table 1 from Region-Based Analyses of Existing Genome-Wide Association Studies Identifies Novel Potential Genetic Susceptibility Regions for Glioma
Authors: Alpen Karen , Maclnnis Robert J. , Vajdic Claire M. , Lai John , Dowty James G. , Koh Eng-Siew , Hovey Elizabeth , Harrup Rosemary , Nguyen Tuong L. , Li Shuai , Joseph David , Benke Geza , Dugué Pierre-Antoine , Southey Melissa C. , Giles Graham G. , Nowak Anna K. , Drummond Katharine J. , Schmidt Daniel F. , Hopper John L. , Kapuscinski Miroslaw K. , Makalic Enes
Published: November 2024

Age and sex characteristics of the discovery datasets (GliomaScan, AGOG, and GICC) and validation dataset (UCSF/Mayo) by glioma type
Supplementary Table S9 from Region-Based Analyses of Existing Genome-Wide Association Studies Identifies Novel Potential Genetic Susceptibility Regions for Glioma
Authors: Alpen Karen , Maclnnis Robert J. , Vajdic Claire M. , Lai John , Dowty James G. , Koh Eng-Siew , Hovey Elizabeth , Harrup Rosemary , Nguyen Tuong L. , Li Shuai , Joseph David , Benke Geza , Dugué Pierre-Antoine , Southey Melissa C. , Giles Graham G. , Nowak Anna K. , Drummond Katharine J. , Schmidt Daniel F. , Hopper John L. , Kapuscinski Miroslaw K. , Makalic Enes
Published: November 2024

Supplementary Table S9 shows the generalised Berk-Jones statistic (GBJ) p-values for the potential novel glioma susceptibility regions by study, glioma type and sex.
Supplementary Table S7 from Region-Based Analyses of Existing Genome-Wide Association Studies Identifies Novel Potential Genetic Susceptibility Regions for Glioma
Authors: Alpen Karen , Maclnnis Robert J. , Vajdic Claire M. , Lai John , Dowty James G. , Koh Eng-Siew , Hovey Elizabeth , Harrup Rosemary , Nguyen Tuong L. , Li Shuai , Joseph David , Benke Geza , Dugué Pierre-Antoine , Southey Melissa C. , Giles Graham G. , Nowak Anna K. , Drummond Katharine J. , Schmidt Daniel F. , Hopper John L. , Kapuscinski Miroslaw K. , Makalic Enes
Published: November 2024

Supplementary Table S7 shows the DEPTH posterior log odds in favour of association (PLO) score and generalised Berk-Jones statistic (GBJ) p-value for TERT, EGFR, CCDC26, CDKN2BAS, TP53 and RTEL regions.
Supplementary Table S6 from Region-Based Analyses of Existing Genome-Wide Association Studies Identifies Novel Potential Genetic Susceptibility Regions for Glioma
Authors: Alpen Karen , Maclnnis Robert J. , Vajdic Claire M. , Lai John , Dowty James G. , Koh Eng-Siew , Hovey Elizabeth , Harrup Rosemary , Nguyen Tuong L. , Li Shuai , Joseph David , Benke Geza , Dugué Pierre-Antoine , Southey Melissa C. , Giles Graham G. , Nowak Anna K. , Drummond Katharine J. , Schmidt Daniel F. , Hopper John L. , Kapuscinski Miroslaw K. , Makalic Enes
Published: November 2024

Supplementary Table S6 shows the DEPTH posterior log odds in favour of association (PLO) score and the logistic regression p-value of the lowest p-value variant for each of the 34 known glioma risk regions using GliomaScan (S6a), AGOG (S6b), and GICC (S6c).
Supplementary Table S2 from Region-Based Analyses of Existing Genome-Wide Association Studies Identifies Novel Potential Genetic Susceptibility Regions for Glioma
Authors: Alpen Karen , Maclnnis Robert J. , Vajdic Claire M. , Lai John , Dowty James G. , Koh Eng-Siew , Hovey Elizabeth , Harrup Rosemary , Nguyen Tuong L. , Li Shuai , Joseph David , Benke Geza , Dugué Pierre-Antoine , Southey Melissa C. , Giles Graham G. , Nowak Anna K. , Drummond Katharine J. , Schmidt Daniel F. , Hopper John L. , Kapuscinski Miroslaw K. , Makalic Enes
Published: November 2024

Supplementary Table S2 shows the number of samples excluded from the GliomaScan data and reasons for exclusion.
Supplementary Figure S2 from Region-Based Analyses of Existing Genome-Wide Association Studies Identifies Novel Potential Genetic Susceptibility Regions for Glioma
Authors: Alpen Karen , Maclnnis Robert J. , Vajdic Claire M. , Lai John , Dowty James G. , Koh Eng-Siew , Hovey Elizabeth , Harrup Rosemary , Nguyen Tuong L. , Li Shuai , Joseph David , Benke Geza , Dugué Pierre-Antoine , Southey Melissa C. , Giles Graham G. , Nowak Anna K. , Drummond Katharine J. , Schmidt Daniel F. , Hopper John L. , Kapuscinski Miroslaw K. , Makalic Enes
Published: November 2024

Supplementary Figure S2 shows the estimation of genetic ancestry of AGOG, GliomaScan and GICC samples by way of scatter plot of PC1 versus PC2.
Comparative Analysis of Reddit Posts and ChatGPT-Generated Texts’ Linguistic Features: A Short Report on Artificial Intelligence’s Imitative Capabilities
Authors: Arcenal Erika Kristine E. , Capistrano Licca Pauleen V. , De Guzman Marielle Jessie D. , Forrosuelo Micaela Isabel M. , Miranda Janeson M.
Published: November 2024

In recent years, the unprecedented explosion of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI, has dramatically and drastically altered many human fields, posing queries about how generative AI can imitate human language. Given the newness of generative AI as a controversial phenomenon, there is an urgency to closely examine how its linguistic outputs could mimic human language produced in natural contexts. Hence, in this short report, we discuss the observed similarities and differences in the linguistic features of the subreddit r/Marriage spouse appreciatory posts and ChatGPT-4 outputs. These results were the offshoot of our genre analysis on these two linguistic data sets. Our analysis revealed that ChatGPT-4 generated texts contain impeccable grammar, while the Reddit appreciatory posts have grammatical discrepancies, such as errors in subject-verb agreement, improper punctuation marks, and erroneous capitalization; ChatGPT-4 generated texts have more complex syntactical structure; Reddit dataset utilized more internet jargon, slang, and profanities and seems to be unpredictable and arbitrary in terms of textual length; and ChatGPT-4 outputs appear to overuse emojis while underuse emoticons and tend to use these digital linguistic elements without regard to their proper contexts. In light of these results, we claim that AI-generated texts, although they can mimic human language, this is on a mere surface level, and a closer inspection could uncover distinct variations. We recommend that future studies use more comprehensive and different datasets and continuously employ comparative and contrastive linguistic analysis to further investigate AI’s imitative capabilities.
Teaching Strategies in Physical Education: A Literature Review of Practices in the United States, China, and Nigeria
Authors: Donaire Ester R.
Published: November 2024

This study offered a literature of Physical Education (PE) strategies employed in the United States, China, and Nigeria, shedding light on diverse approaches influenced by unique cultural, societal, and governmental factors. In the United States, a flexible and inclusive PE curriculum prioritizes student engagement and lifelong physical activity through diverse activities and personalized instruction. Conversely, China's structured PE programs emphasize discipline, physical fitness, and early talent identification, supported by robust government policies. Nigeria's PE teaching strategies integrate cultural relevance, community involvement, and adaptive resource utilization to promote physical activity despite resource constraints. Through cross-cultural learning and recommendations for government investment, teacher training, community engagement, and health education integration, stakeholders can enhance PE programs globally, fostering physical activity, sports participation, and overall well-being among students.
Imagem/Tempo: por um método lissovskyano de pesquisa em fotografia
Authors: Valle Marcela Chaves do
Published: November 2024

O que fazem, querem ou sonham as imagens? Desafiadoras indagações, pois não estamos diante de um campo de conhecimento fechado, mas numa arena a céu aberto, centrífuga e vertiginosa. É na leitura de sua história e de sua vertigem, do que foi, do que poderia ter sido e do que ainda será que a fotografia se revela. Em sua pesquisa, Mauricio Lissovsky coaduna duas metodologias, biográfica e iconológica. Contudo, constata-se que, da junção das partes, surge um método lissovskyano de análise de imagens fotográficas. Com embasamento teórico em sua extensa produção acadêmica, o que se propõe é o aprimoramento desse pensar metodológico sobre como entendê-las e como nos entender com as imagens.
When Diplomats Become Leaders
Authors: Willimek Flora Marlene
Published: November 2024

Challenging assumptions about diplomacy as a self-effacing practice of collective governance, this article searches for leadership in a system that conventionally leaves no room for it.

Drawing on interviews and a Leadership Trait Analysis (lta), it advances an original conceptual framework for identifying and analysing diplomatic leadership in crisis. The cases of Ukraine’s current Ambassador to Germany and his predecessor illustrate the empirical application. The study finds that, under conditions of disrupted routine and increasing public visibility, not only political figures, but also diplomats posted abroad are able to practice a type of leadership. It concludes that eventually personality traits decide whether or not leadership is exercised. Expanding the sparse knowledge about psychological variables in diplomacy, my work finally calls for a more thorough exploration of the synthesis between research on leadership and diplomacy.
When France Advised Syria: Cooperation as a Principle of Recognition, and its Limits
Authors: Tannous Manon-Nour
Published: November 2024

This article is a re-examination of cooperation in international relations through the example of Franco-Syrian relations between 2001 and 2004. I explore how cooperation fulfils – or not – a function of recognition, especially in the case of countries under unequal terms. Based on archival research and interviews, the article analyses three concrete moments of cooperation between Syria and France during this time. While traditional Franco-Syrian cooperation, prior to 2000, was based on a mutual recognition of partners, in the aftermath of presidential change in Syria in 2000 and within the shifting regional context, the Franco-Syrian relationship seemed to be marked by an inequality. Therefore, the article aims to capture the symbols of this recognition between France and Syria, and to study the role of cooperation not only in deepening a bilateral relationship, but – in a new perspective in international relations – in undermining it.
Freedom of Association under the Treaties of the United Nations: A Right of Intrinsic or Instrumental Value?
Authors: McIntyre Ruairi , Cahill Maria
Published: November 2024

Although enshrined within various international instruments of the United Nations, the right to freedom of association is principally developed under the rubric of Article 22 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. This article seeks to trace the contours of this right with regard to the jurisprudence and commentary of the institutions of the UN. Part ii examines the protections afforded, restrictions permitted, and positive obligations imposed by article 22. Part ii analyses the interaction between article 22 and other rights guaranteed by the iccpr. Part iii seeks to assess the rationale underpinning the protection of the right to freedom of association as protected by the UN treaties. The research finds that the Human Rights Committee has disproportionately framed Article 22 in terms of its political and systemic significance, and have neglected to develop a philosophical basis for the right deriving from its inherent value to the human person.
Freedom of Association in Nigeria: A Cacophony of Contestations
Authors: Amao Femi
Published: November 2024

This article examines the protection and exercise of the right to freedom of association in Nigeria. It discusses the freedom in the context of its historical and political background. The article delineates the ambit of the freedom under the constitution and other relevant legal frameworks in Nigeria. It further examines the nexus between the right and customary norms. It looks at the approach of the Nigerian courts to the interpretation and application of the legal framework. It also examines the influence of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights in the protection of the right in the country. In addition, the article examines how the legal framework for the right impacts trade unions and civil society organisations, especially in the light of attempts to restrict the freedom.
Freedom of Association in Mexico
Authors: Anzures Gurría José Juan
Published: November 2024

Freedom of association has been constitutionally recognized in Mexico since the mid-19th century. But it has been in recent years that academic scholarship and case law have constructed its content and scope. It is a freedom right that requires the performance of a negative conduct on the part of the State. Its constitutionally protected scope comprises a positive, a negative, as well as a collective dimension. Additionally, it is an instrumental right through which other fundamental rights can be exercised and the constitutional and democratic Rule of Law is consolidated. The greatest academic scholarship and case law development in Mexico refers to two specific types of associations: political parties and labor unions.
A Resource History of US-China Rapprochement
Authors: Vassallo Christopher
Published: November 2024

Facing the prospect of dual crises in domestic production and international supply of oil in the 1970s, Washington looked to an unlikely new source: The People’s Republic of China. Reputable American analysts at the time assessed that China’s near offshore contained reserves on par with the Persian Gulf region. Three consecutive administrations in Washington seriously considered China one geoeconomic “fix” to pressing concerns about concentrated resource dependency, first for oil then later for metals and minerals. During the Nixon Administration, fears of overdependency on producer nations encouraged this turn. By Carter’s time, officials maintained a more expansive view of China’s mineral potential and were committed to transcending oil dependencies partly via a program of investment in Chinese minerals. Though China now represents Washington’s gravest point of dependency, rather than its soundest escape, the fulcrum of the US-China economic relationship today remains the same as in the 1970s: foreign resource dependency.
Ceratostema gualaquizensis (Ericaceae: Vaccinieae), a new species from Ecuador known from previously misidentified specimens and new insights on Ceratostema loucianae
Authors: JIMÉNEZ MARCO M. , ITURRALDE GABRIEL A. , KUETHE J.R. , LAPO-GONZÁLEZ NADIA , BAQUERO LUIS E. , VÉLEZ-ABARCA LEISBERTH , GARZÓN-SUÁREZ HENRY X.
Published: November 2024

A species of Ceratostema new to science from southern Ecuador, is described and illustrated as part of ongoing research on biodiversity in the Cordillera Real de Los Andes. Ceratostema gualaquizensis is distinguished by the convex leaves with folded margins at the base, and the axillary, solitary, and tubular flowers with a slightly 5-ribbed corolla that is magenta with apically black lobes. Furthermore, we provide additional information on the newly described Ceratostema loucianae. The taxonomic similarities of these two species are discussed and information about their distribution, habitat, and conservation status are provided. Both species are being sold and cultivated with erroneous/fictitious names by nurseries and private collections, information of which is provided in this paper.
Typification of the name Symphytum nodosum (Boraginaceae)
Authors: KOVALCHUK ANDRIY
Published: November 2024

The name Symphytum nodosum (Boraginaceae) is typified based on the original Schur’s collection preserved in the herbarium of Ivan Franko National University of Lviv (LW). Availability of the original material of S. nodosum allows to clarify the identity of this poorly understood taxon. Morphological distinctiveness of S. nodosum justifies its recognition at the rank of subspecies of S. tuberosum. The updated infraspecific classification of S. tuberosum is proposed, with a new combination (S. tuberosum subsp. leonhardtianum) introduced to accommodate dodecaploid populations (2n=96) of S. tuberosum previously referred to either as S. tuberosum subsp. angustifolium or S. tuberosum subsp. nodosum.