bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intracellular islatravir-triphosphate half-life supports extended dosing intervals
Authors: Zang Xiaowei , Ankrom Wendy , Kraft Walter K. , Vargo Ryan , Stoch S. Aubrey , Iwamoto Marian , Matthews Randolph P.
Published: August 2024

Antiretroviral therapy has substantially reduced morbidity, mortality, and disease transmission in people living with HIV. Islatravir is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase translocation inhibitor that inhibits HIV-1 replication by multiple mechanisms of action, and it is in development for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. In preclinical and clinical studies, islatravir had a long half-life (t
½
) of 3.0 and 8.7 days (72 and 209 hours, respectively); therefore, islatravir is being investigated as a long-acting oral antiretroviral agent. A study was conducted to definitively elucidate the terminal t
½
of islatravir and its active form islatravir-triphosphate (islatravir-TP). A single-site, open-label, non-randomized, single-dose phase 1 study was performed to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and safety of islatravir in plasma and the pharmacokinetics of islatravir-TP in peripheral blood mononuclear cells after administration of a single oral dose of islatravir 30 mg. Eligible participants were healthy adult males without HIV infection between the ages of 18 and 65 years. Fourteen participants were enrolled. The median time to maximum plasma islatravir concentration was 1 hour. Plasma islatravir concentrations decreased in a biphasic manner, with a t
½
of 73 hours. The t
½
(percentage geometric coefficient of variation) of islatravir-TP in peripheral blood mononuclear cells through 6 weeks (~1008 hours) after dosing was 8.1 days or 195 hours (25.6%). Islatravir was generally well tolerated with no drug-related adverse events observed. Islatravir-TP has a long intracellular t
½
, supporting further clinical investigation of islatravir administered at an extended dosing interval.
Incorporating ecological heterogeneity and intraspecific variation differentiates complex interactions between apex predators and stocked fish
Authors: Rosinski Caroline L. , Cavalli Pete , Neebling Travis , Skiles Taylor , Wicks Samuel , Fetzer William W.
Published: August 2024

Ecological heterogeneity and intraspecific variation can impact energy flow from the base of the food web to top predators. We evaluated the effect of intraspecific variation on estimates of lake trout ( Salvelinus namaycush) consumption of stocked kokanee (lacustrine sockeye salmon, Oncorhynchus nerka) in a 390 ha oligotrophic lake with two distinct basins. Lake trout stomach content analyses, stable isotope niche space, and catch rates indicated high intraspecific variation in resource use across habitats and basins. Intraspecific variation and ecological heterogeneity were incorporated into two bioenergetics modeling approaches: one lake-wide model, and one partitioned model that accounted for differences in lake trout diet composition and population size across habitats. The ecologically partitioned model highlighted that lake trout consumption was primarily in the epilimnion of one basin, while the lake-wide, unpartitioned model performed similarly but failed to provide ecological context for where that consumption occurred. Incorporating ecological heterogeneity and intraspecific variation into bioenergetic models can more accurately represent top predators foraging patterns across habitats and inform management actions to mitigate impacts to stocked fish.
The January 2024 Issue
Authors: Uhlig Steve
Published: August 2024

This January 2024 issue contains two technical papers.

The first technical paper,
Planter: Rapid Prototyping of In-Network Machine Learning Inference
, by Changgang Zheng and colleagues, proposes a new framework to streamline the deployment of machine learning models across a wide range of hardware devices such as Intel Tofino, Xilinx/AMD Alveo and NVIDIA BlueField 2. The authors discuss the challenges of deploying machine learning algorithms into different programmable devices.
The April 2024 Issue
Authors: Uhlig Steve
Published: August 2024

This April 2024 issue contains two technical papers and one editorial note.
This Is a Local Domain: On Amassing Country-Code Top-Level Domains from Public Data
Authors: Sommese Raffaele , van Rijswijk-Deij Roland , Jonker Mattijs
Published: August 2024

Domain lists are a key ingredient for representative censuses of the Web. Unfortunately, such censuses typically lack a view on domains under country-code top-level domains (ccTLDs). This introduces unwanted bias: many countries have a rich local Web that remains hidden if their ccTLDs are not considered. The reason ccTLDs are rarely considered is that gaining access - if possible at all - is often laborious. To tackle this, we ask: what can we learn about ccTLDs from public sources? We extract domain names under ccTLDs from 6 years of public data from Certificate Transparency logs and Common Crawl. We compare this against ground truth for 19 ccTLDs for which we have the full DNS zone. We find that public data covers 43%-80% of these ccTLDs, and that coverage grows over time. By also comparing port scan data we then show that these public sources reveal a significant part of the Web presence under a ccTLD. We conclude that in the absence of full access to ccTLDs, domain names learned from public sources can be a good proxy when performing Web censuses.
Sustainability of GECCO 2023
Authors: Reigada Leonor , Vasconcelos João , Rodrigues Marco , Pereira João , Silva Sara , Silva Carla
Published: August 2024

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic's constraints on travel, academics frequently traveled over 150,000 kilometers per person per year for conferences, board meetings, collaborations, fieldwork, seminars, and lectures [1]. It is therefore unsurprising that academic air travel is one of the primary sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for universities. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced a significant shift in how we gather and connect, with massive annual conferences and small society meetings moving online. This transition has presented challenges and opportunities, but it has also highlighted the potential of virtual gatherings to bridge geographical and social divides.
Searching the Genetic Programming Bibliography
Authors: Langdon W. B.
Published: August 2024

Since February 2024 the genetic programming bibliography has supported free text queries to find GP papers via http://gpbib.cs.ucl.ac.uk/gp-search/
Smart Contract Vulnerability Detection: The Role of Large Language Model (LLM)
Authors: Boi Biagio , Esposito Christian , Lee Sokjoon
Published: August 2024

Smart contracts are susceptible to various vulnerabilities that can lead to significant financial losses. The usage of tools for vulnerabilities is reducing the threats but presents some limitations related to the approach used by the tool itself. This paper presents a novel approach to smart contract vulnerability detection utilizing Large Language Models (LLMs), as a tool to detect all the vulnerabilities at once. Our proposed tool leverages the advanced natural language processing capabilities of LLMs to analyze smart contract code and identify potential security flaws. By training the LLM on a diverse dataset of known smart contract vulnerabilities and secure coding practices, we enhance its ability to recognize subtle and complex vulnerabilities that traditional static analysis tools might miss. The evaluation of our tool demonstrates its effectiveness in detecting a wide range of vulnerabilities with satisfaction and accuracy, providing developers with a robust mechanism to improve the security of their smart contracts before deployment. This approach signifies a significant advancement in the application of artificial intelligence for blockchain security, highlighting the potential of LLMs to enhance the reliability and safety of decentralized applications.
Retrospective Analysis of the Impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 (COVID‐19) on Pregnancy and Neonatal Outcomes
Authors: Sero Leyla , Okur Nilufer , Tunçel Duygu , Talay Mehmet Nur , Aydın Mustafa Fırat , Oglak Suleyman Cemil
Published: August 2024

Background: The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) was more devastating in people with comorbidities such as advanced age and immunodeficiency. Another group affected by COVID‐19 was pregnant women. Immunological changes during pregnancy and conditions such as gestational diabetes and pre‐eclampsia that occur during pregnancy also have effects on the fetus. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of PCR‐proven COVID‐19 infection during pregnancy on fetus and newborn.

Methods: Between December 2019 and October 2021, data from pregnant women with COVID‐19 symptoms or a history of contact with people with COVID‐19, infected with PCR‐proven COVID‐19 virus, were analyzed retrospectively. Clinical and laboratory data of pregnant women were analyzed. Death data associated with COVID‐19 were evaluated. Clinical and laboratory findings of newborns related to COVID‐19 and mortality data related to COVID‐19 were recorded. The study received approval from the Gazi Yasargil Training and Research Hospital ethics committee (09.07.2021/853).

Results: We evaluated 327 pregnant women who were followed up in our hospital and whose deliveries ended in live birth, stillbirth, miscarriage, or curettage. One hundred eighty‐five (56.6%) of the pregnant women had at least one COVID‐19‐related symptom. We evaluated the data of 306 live births, 21 intrauterine fetal deaths, and 13 postnatal deaths. Among the postnatal deaths, five infants succumbed directly due to COVID‐19 infection. A total of 23 live‐born babies (7.5%) were classified as small for gestational age (SGA), while 80 babies (26.1%) were born before 37 weeks of gestation, and 32 babies (10.4%) were born before 32 weeks. Cord blood gas analysis revealed that 19 infants (6.3%) had pH < 7 and base excess (BE) < −12. The rate of perinatal asphyxia was significantly higher in babies born to mothers who did not survive (p = 0.027). A considerable number of infants, 119 (40.3%), were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Among the seven infants with positive PCR results admitted to the NICU, five (4.2%) did not survive.

Conclusion: While COVID‐19 infection in pregnancy seriously affects mortality and morbidity in pregnant women, it also causes mortality and morbidity on the fetus.
Effect of Cowpea and Pumpkin Powders on the Physicofunctional Properties, Total Phenolic Content, Antioxidant Activity, and Consumer Acceptability of Soup
Authors: Mungofa Nyarai , Beswa Daniso
Published: August 2024

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) play a pivotal role as affordable, nutritious food sources for humans. Low‐income households can significantly benefit from supplementing their diet with nutritious and cost‐effective locally available ingredients. The aim of this research was to develop a cost‐effective soup formulation using ingredients that are readily available from a household garden and suitable for use in the kitchens of families with limited financial resources. The effect of cowpea and pumpkin powders on physicofunctional properties, total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity (AA), and consumer acceptability of the soup were determined. Three composite soup mixes were prepared using various parts of cowpea and pumpkin at a ratio of 1:1. A control soup sample was developed, and the experimental soups were prepared by supplementing the control soup with 5%, 10%, or 15% of each composite soup mix, respectively. The physical properties, functional properties, TPC, AA, and consumer acceptability of soup were determined. The control soup had an appealing golden brown colour. Formulations 1 and 3 showed the highest relative viscosity (80.67–88.91 cP). All the experimental soup formulations had higher rehydration ratios (8–14.7 g/g) and water absorption capacities of 185.7–263.3 g/g compared to the control at 7.7 g/g and 65.7 g/g, respectively. The TPC of Formulation 2 (F2) (0.32–0.54 mg of gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/100 g powder) and Formulation 3 (F3) (0.54–0.63 mg GAE/100 g powder) was higher than Formulation 1 (F1) (0.25–0.32 mg GAE/100 g powder) and the control (0.44 mg GAE/100 g powder). Overall, the cowpea seed powder plus pumpkin fruit powder added at 10% in F2 appeared nearly optimal as a soup mix. It produced an attractive golden brown soup with increased swelling power (SP) and viscosity to assist in swallowing. Soup F1 and F2 scored high in appearance (7.27 and 7.0), aroma (7.1 and 6.7), taste (6.6 and 6.3), and overall acceptability (6.5 and 6.4). Despite having TPC and AA lower compared to F3, F2 containing 15% cowpea seed powder and pumpkin fruit has the potential to be further developed and commercialised due to the relatively high overall consumer acceptability and high acceptability in all sensory attributes.
Optimising Resource Utilisation: A Case Study on Oleofinos’ Advanced Line 4
Authors: Jimenez Juan José , Pérez-González Eduardo , Guerra-Montiel Mariana Y.
Published: August 2024

This study presents significant advancements in the refinement of vegetable oils, demonstrating a 40% increase in processing capacity and a 30% reduction in production time. Additionally, energy consumption was reduced by 25%, leading to a 20% decrease in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These improvements are attributed to the implementation of renewable energy technologies and heat recovery systems. With these advancements, Oleofinos has enhanced its safety and quality standards, maintaining the FSSC 22000 Certification for Food Safety Risk Management and the Rainforest Alliance Certification, which is recognised as the world’s leading certifier under the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) with over 25 years of experience in environmental certification. Currently, Oleofinos is the largest plant of its kind in Mexico, boasting an unprecedented processing capacity of 500,000 tonnes per year. The results of this study underscore the significance and transformative impact of research, establishing a benchmark for future initiatives aimed at process improvement in the sector and reinforcing the commitment to operational excellence and environmental responsibility.
Pleomorphic Adenoma of the Palate: Diagnostic and Surgical Strategy
Authors: Ndiaye Ciré , Diouf Mame Sanou , Ahmed Houra , Thiam Arame , Diop Ngoné Diaba , Mbaye Aminata , Barry Mamadou Woury , Ba Mame Diarra Bousso
Published: August 2024

Pleomorphic adenoma is a benign tumor of the salivary glands. It develops preferentially in the parotid gland. The authors report a localization of a pleomorphic adenoma on the palate and discuss the value of CT scan in therapeutic strategy.
Postharvest Light Irradiation Induces Anthocyanin Accumulation in Fresh‐Cut Lily Bulb (Lilium davidii var. unicolor) Scales
Authors: Fan Wenguang , Bai Peng , Chen Rongrong , Guo Tao , Tian Yaqin , Tian Hui , Ren Haiwei
Published: August 2024

During the storage and processing time of the lily bulb, violet‐red discoloration of the scales often occurs, which is mainly caused by the biosynthesis of anthocyanin. To investigate the effect of light irradiation on the accumulation of anthocyanin in fresh‐cut lily bulb scales, here, we examined the effect of 12 days of light irradiation and shading at 20°C on the accumulation of anthocyanin. We found that the violet‐red color change of the lily bulb scales treated with 20°C/light irradiation was greater than that of the scales subjected to 20°C/shading treatment. This difference was based on variations in the L∗, a∗, and b∗ values, as well as the degree of browning on the surface of the scales. The anthocyanin content in fresh‐cut lily bulb scales treated with light irradiation was 5.08 times higher than that in the shaded treatment on Day 6, and this higher content persisted until Day 12. The activities of chalcone synthase (CHS), chalcone isomerase (CHI), dihydroflavonol reductase (DFR), and anthocyanin synthase (ANS) which belong to the anthocyanin synthetases family were enhanced by light irradiation treatment. RT‐qPCR analysis showed that the expression of CHS, CHI, DFR, and ANS was consistent with enzyme activity. Furthermore, light irradiation increased the expression of HY5. Thus, these results suggested that light irradiation treatment induced the accumulation of anthocyanins in fresh‐cut lily bulb scales to a greater extent than shadowing treatment. These results will contribute to understanding the mechanism of violet‐red color change induced by light irradiation in lily bulbs.
Efficacy of Combination of Antiviral Therapy With Neutralizing Monoclonal Antibodies for Recurrent Persistent SARS‐CoV‐2 Pneumonia in Patients With Lymphoma
Authors: Gai Xiaoyan , Sun Xiaoyan , Liu Beibei , Yan Wei , Sheng Zikang , Zhou Qingtao , Sun Yongchang
Published: August 2024

Despite the potential of neutralizing antibodies in the management of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), clinical research on its efficacy in Chinese patients remains limited. This study is aimed at investigating the therapeutic effect of combination of antiviral therapy with neutralizing monoclonal antibodies for recurrent persistent SARS‐CoV‐2 pneumonia in patients with lymphoma complicated by B cell depletion. A prospective study was conducted on Chinese patients who were treated with antiviral nirmatrelvir/ritonavir therapy and the neutralizing antibody tixagevimab–cilgavimab (tix‐cil). The primary outcome was the rate of recurrent SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Five patients with lymphoma experienced recurrent SARS‐CoV‐2 pneumonia and received tix‐cil treatment. All patients had a history of CD20 monoclonal antibody use within the year preceding SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, and two patients also had a history of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor use. These patients had notably low lymphocyte counts and exhibited near depletion of B cells. All five patients tested negative for serum SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG and IgM antibodies. None of the patients developed reinfection with SARS‐CoV‐2 pneumonia after antiviral and tix‐cil treatment during the 6‐month follow‐up period. In conclusion, the administration of antiviral and SARS‐CoV‐2‐neutralizing antibodies showed encouraging therapeutic efficacy against SARS‐CoV‐2 pneumonia in patients with lymphoma complicated by B cell depletion, along with the potential preventive effect of neutralizing antibodies for up to 6 months.
IL‐17 Mildly Rescued the Impaired Proliferation of Alveolar Epithelial Cells Induced by LCN2 Overexpression
Authors: Lv Tingting , Hou Ziliang , Yang Kaiyuan , Wang Jinxiang
Published: August 2024

Introduction. The impaired proliferative capacity of alveolar epithelial cells after injury is an important factor causing epithelial repair dysfunction, leading to the occurrence of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Alveolar type 2 (AT2) cells as the stem cells of alveolar epithelium participate in the repair process after alveolar injury. Lipocalin‐2 (LCN2) participates in multiple processes regulating the pathological process of alveolar epithelial cells, but the mechanisms involved are still unclear. Method. We used a BLM‐treated mouse model to characterize the expression of LCN2 in lung fibrosis regions and analyzed the location of LCN2 in alveolar epithelial cells. Moreover, human pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells (HPAEpiCs) were transfected with the LCN2 overexpression plasmid vector in vitro. Recombinant human interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) protein (rhIL‐17) at different concentrations was administered to intervene in HPAEpiCs, observing cell viability and analyzing the concentration‐dependent effect of IL‐17. Results. LCN2 was increased in the alveolar epithelium post‐BLM injury, and highly expressed LCN2 was mainly concentrated on AT2 cells in BLM‐injured lungs. Meanwhile, LCN2‐overexpressing HPAEpiCs showed impaired cell viability and cell growth. HPAEpiC intervention with rhIL‐17 mildly rescued the impaired cell proliferation induced by LCN2 overexpression, and the effect of IL‐17 intervention was partially concentration‐dependent. Conclusions. The results revealed the reversed effect of IL‐17 on the impaired proliferative capacity of the alveolar epithelium induced by LCN2 overexpression. The target alveolar epithelial cells regulated by this process were AT2 cells, providing new clues for alveolar epithelium repair after injury and the treatment of lung injury diseases.
Supplementary Figure 4 from Anti-EGFR Antibody–Drug Conjugate Carrying an Inhibitor Targeting CDK Restricts Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Growth
Authors: Cheung Anthony , Chenoweth Alicia M. , Johansson Annelie , Laddach Roman , Guppy Naomi , Trendell Jennifer , Esapa Benjamina , Mavousian Antranik , Navarro-Llinas Blanca , Haider Syed , Romero-Clavijo Pablo , Hoffmann Ricarda M. , Andriollo Paolo , Rahman Khondaker M. , Jackson Paul , Tsoka Sophia , Irshad Sheeba , Roxanis Ioannis , Grigoriadis Anita , Thurston David E. , Lord Christopher J. , Tutt Andrew N. J. , Karagiannis Sophia N.
Published: August 2024

Supplementary Figure 4. Live-cell confocal microscopy of ADC internalization.
Supplementary Appendix S1 from Evaluating the Base Excision Repair Inhibitor TRC102 and Temozolomide for Patients with Recurrent Glioblastoma in the Phase 2 Adult Brain Tumor Consortium Trial BERT
Authors: Ahluwalia Manmeet S. , Ozair Ahmad , Drappatz Jan , Ye Xiaobu , Peng Sen , Lee Matthew , Rath Sanhita , Dhruv Harshil , Hao Yue , Berens Michael E. , Walbert Tobias , Holdhoff Matthias , Lesser Glenn J. , Cloughesy Timothy F. , Sloan Andrew E. , Takebe Naoko , Couce Marta , Peereboom David M. , Nabors Burt , Wen Patrick Y. , Grossman Stuart A. , Rogers Lisa R.
Published: August 2024

Final Amended Version of the Clinical Trial Protocol
Table S2 from Exosomal Thomsen–Friedenreich Glycoantigen: A New Liquid Biopsy Biomarker for Lung and Breast Cancer Diagnoses
Authors: Hsu Chang-Chieh , Su Yafei , Rittenhouse-Olson Kate , Attwood Kristopher M. , Mojica Wilfrido , Reid Mary E. , Dy Grace K. , Wu Yun
Published: August 2024

Supplementary Table S2. Characteristics of Breast Cancer Patients and Controls.
Table 2 from Exosomal Thomsen–Friedenreich Glycoantigen: A New Liquid Biopsy Biomarker for Lung and Breast Cancer Diagnoses
Authors: Hsu Chang-Chieh , Su Yafei , Rittenhouse-Olson Kate , Attwood Kristopher M. , Mojica Wilfrido , Reid Mary E. , Dy Grace K. , Wu Yun
Published: August 2024

Characteristics of patients with breast cancer
Table 1 from Exosomal Thomsen–Friedenreich Glycoantigen: A New Liquid Biopsy Biomarker for Lung and Breast Cancer Diagnoses
Authors: Hsu Chang-Chieh , Su Yafei , Rittenhouse-Olson Kate , Attwood Kristopher M. , Mojica Wilfrido , Reid Mary E. , Dy Grace K. , Wu Yun
Published: August 2024

Characteristics of patients with lung cancer
Figure S1 from Exosomal Thomsen–Friedenreich Glycoantigen: A New Liquid Biopsy Biomarker for Lung and Breast Cancer Diagnoses
Authors: Hsu Chang-Chieh , Su Yafei , Rittenhouse-Olson Kate , Attwood Kristopher M. , Mojica Wilfrido , Reid Mary E. , Dy Grace K. , Wu Yun
Published: August 2024

Supplementary Figure S1. SPR assay detects exosomal TF-Ag-α for cancer diagnosis. Representative SPR curves for the detection of exosomal TF-Ag-α in serum samples from (a) a Stage II lung cancer patient using a biochip modified with IgG3 negative control antibodies; (b) a Stage 0 breast cancer patient using a biochip modified with IgG3 negative control antibodies, (c) a male normal control using a biochip modified with JAA-F11 antibodies, (d) a male normal control using a biochip modified with IgG3 negative control antibodies, (e) a female normal control using a biochip modified with JAA-F11 antibodies, and (f) a female normal control using a biochip modified with IgG3 negative control antibodies.
Figure 5 from Exosomal Thomsen–Friedenreich Glycoantigen: A New Liquid Biopsy Biomarker for Lung and Breast Cancer Diagnoses
Authors: Hsu Chang-Chieh , Su Yafei , Rittenhouse-Olson Kate , Attwood Kristopher M. , Mojica Wilfrido , Reid Mary E. , Dy Grace K. , Wu Yun
Published: August 2024

Evaluation of exosomal TF-Ag-α in breast cancer diagnosis. A, Expression of TF-Ag-α was significantly higher in exosomes from MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer and MCF-7 luminal A breast cancer cells than those from MCF-10A normal breast epithelial cells at an exosome concentration of 1011 exosomes/mL. B, The levels of exosomal TF-Ag-α in serum samples from a training set of patients with breast cancer and normal controls were measured. Exosomal TF-Ag-α expression was significantly higher in serum samples from patients with breast cancer at all stages (n = 70; stage 0: n = 12; stage I: n = 14; stage II: n = 15, stage III: n = 14; and stage IV: n = 15) than normal controls (n = 14) and patients with benign breast conditions (n = 15). C, Exosomal TF-Ag-α expression was significantly higher in serum samples from patients with luminal A/B (n = 44), triple-negative (n = 9), and HER2-positive (n = 17) breast cancers than normal controls (n = 29 including 15 women with benign breast conditions). **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ****, P < 0.0001; ns, not significant.
Figure 4 from Exosomal Thomsen–Friedenreich Glycoantigen: A New Liquid Biopsy Biomarker for Lung and Breast Cancer Diagnoses
Authors: Hsu Chang-Chieh , Su Yafei , Rittenhouse-Olson Kate , Attwood Kristopher M. , Mojica Wilfrido , Reid Mary E. , Dy Grace K. , Wu Yun
Published: August 2024

Blinded evaluation of exosomal TF-Ag-α in lung cancer diagnosis using a test set of patients with lung cancer and controls. A, Exosomal TF-Ag-α expression was significantly higher in serum samples from patients with lung cancer at all stages (total n = 20; stage I/II: n = 10; stage III/IV: n = 10) than normal controls (n = 6; ****, P < 0.0001). B, ROC curve of comparison between patients with lung cancer (n = 20) and normal controls (n = 6). The AUC was 1.00. C, The sensitivity (SEN) and specificity (SPE) of exosomal TF-Ag-α in distinguishing patients with lung cancer from normal controls using a cutoff value of 0.441 obtained from the training set.
Supplemental Figure 3 from Age-Related Increases in IGFBP2 Increase Melanoma Cell Invasion and Lipid Synthesis
Authors: Alicea Gretchen M. , Patel Payal , Portuallo Marie E. , Fane Mitchell E. , Wei Meihan , Chhabra Yash , Dixit Agrani , Carey Alexis E. , Wang Vania , Rocha Murilo R. , Behera Reeti , Speicher David W. , Tang Hsin-Yao , Kossenkov Andrew V. , Rebecca Vito W. , Wirtz Denis , Weeraratna Ashani T.
Published: August 2024

Supp Fig 3 shows the zoom -out of Figure 4, to show a larger field of view for staining of mCherry cells
Begonia nahauensis (sect. Platycentrum, Begoniaceae), a new species from northern Vietnam
Authors: BUI DOI THE , NGUYEN CUONG HUU , TRAN THE NGOC , NGUYEN LY VAN , LIN CHE WEI
Published: August 2024

A new species of Begonia sect. Platycentrum, Begonia nahauensis, is described based on morphological characters. The new species is morphologically similar to B. auritalata, however, it is clearly distinct from the latter due to its petioles and ovary, which are densely covered with gland-tipped hairs (vs. non-glandular hairs), capsule with three complete locules (vs. three locules, but one of them is either underdeveloped or degenerated) and three straight wings (vs. adaxial wing being concave). A morphological description and diagnosis, information on distribution and ecology, and a preliminary conservation assessment are provided.
Species diversity and phylogeny of the green macroalga Ulva (Ulvophyceae, Chlorophyta) in Singapore
Authors: NG YU FEI , HUANG DANWEI
Published: August 2024

The green macroalgal genus Ulva (Ulvaceae, Ulvophyceae, Chlorophyta) is commonly found in coastal ecosystems and confers many important marine ecological services. Despite prior research interest and recent advancements in Ulva taxonomy, in many parts of the world, its species diversity remains unresolved due to a high degree of morphological variation and phenotypic plasticity. DNA barcoding and phylogenetic approaches can potentially assist in identifying Ulva species precisely. Here, we analysed chloroplast tufA, rbcL and nuclear ITS from 49 Ulva specimens from Singapore. Gross and microscopic morphological examinations were also performed to characterise the morphological range of each species. Our results confirm the presence of three Ulva species in Singapore, all of which are new local records: U. meridionalis, U. ohnoi, and U. tepida. Although 10 Ulva species have been historically recorded in Singapore, none of them were found in the present study, likely due to prior misidentification, limited seasonal sampling, or local extirpations. Ulva ohnoi shows high morphological variation with five morphotypes. This study demonstrates that molecular analyses combined with morphological examinations are useful for characterising Ulva diversity.
Systematics of Dynastor Doubleday, [1849] (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae, Satyrinae, Brassolini)
Authors: PIOVESAN MÔNICA , CASAGRANDE MIRNA MARTINS , LAMAS GERARDO , MIELKE OLAF HERMANN HENDRIK
Published: August 2024

Dynastor Doubleday, [1849] (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Satyrinae: Brassolini) is an exclusively Neotropical genus, occurring from Mexico to Argentina. Adults have crepuscular habits, while the larvae are unique in Brassolini in feeding on bromeliads (Bromeliaceae). Until now, Dynastor contained three species, nine subspecies, and five synonyms (two of them generic synonyms). The present study analyzed information on the immature stages and adult morphology, with molecular and distribution data, to provide a revised taxonomic hypothesis for Dynastor species and subspecies. Analyses of approximately 380 specimens, including all species and subspecies known for the genus, supported the reinstatement of the statuses of three species: Dynastor stygianus Butler, 1872 stat. rest., Dynastor hannibal Oberthür, 1881 stat. rest., and Dynastor strix (Bates, 1864) stat. rest. One subspecies is here treated as a species: Dynastor pharnaces Stichel, 1908 stat. nov. Three new synonyms are proposed: Papilio anaxarete Cramer, 1776 syn. nov., Dynastor darius ictericus Stichel, 1904 syn. nov. and Dynastor darius faenius Fruhstorfer, 1912 syn. nov. of Dynastor darius (Fabricius, 1775). To ensure unambiguous identification of names, two neotypes were designated for: Dynastor napoleon f. maculatus Niepelt, 1922 and Dynastor populus Röber, 1927, and nine lectotypes for: Dynastor napoleon Doubleday, [1849], Papilio darius Fabricius, 1775, Papilio anaxarete, Dynastor mardonius Fruhstorfer, 1911, Dynastor darius faenius, Brassolis macrosiris Westwood, 1851, Dynastor hannibal, Brassolis strix, and Dynastor pharnaces stat. nov. The proposed taxonomic checklist for Dynastor includes seven species, more than double the previous proposals, and eight subjective synonyms (two of them generic synonyms).
The Spine Raptor—a new genus of predatory katydid (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Meconematinae: Phlugidini) from the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest
Authors: MENDES DIEGO MATHEUS DE MELLO , SOBRAL RAFAEL , NETO ALBERTO MOREIRA DA SILVA
Published: August 2024

The Phlugidini tribe (Meconematinae: Tettigoniidae) currently comprises 10 genera and 64 species of small predatory katydids with Neotropical distribution. Herein, we describe the new genus Spinaraptor gen. nov. with five species included: Spinaraptor taja sp. nov. (type species), Spinaraptor celerinicta (Nickle, 2003) comb. nov., Spinaraptor ecuador (Gorochov, 2012) comb. nov., Spinaraptor gerana (Gorochov, 2015) comb. nov. and Spinaraptor nemoptera (Bolivar, 2012) comb. nov. (All transferred from Phlugis Stål, 1861). Pictorial keys to species in the genus, maps and natural history observations are provided.
Eudesis tenuissima sp. n. on Italian Peninsula (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: August 2024

Eudesis Reitter is a Mediterranean endogean endemic genus comprising four species known to occur on Sardinia, and one in the coastal region of Spain. The first species found in continental Italy is described, Eudesis tenuissima sp. n., and compared with remaining members of the genus.
Democracy Revised: Democratic Imaginary and Emerging Autocracy in Post-Soviet Russia
Authors: Prozorova Yulia
Published: August 2024

Contemporary autocracies often maintain a connection with democracy. They do not entirely dismantle the democratic structures established within unfinished modernization projects. Instead, they emerge as “electoral autocracies” and manipulate the concept of democracy offering alternative interpretations and meanings to further their illiberal agenda. The paper delves into the revision of democracy and how the democratic imaginary is utilized in the context of emerging autocracy in post-Soviet Russia. While the post-Soviet Russian autocracy adjusted democratic institutions for its own objectives, it also intended to appropriate the concept of democracy at the semantic and symbolic levels. The rise of Putin’s autocracy is characterized by the radicalization of cultural-civilizational particularism endorsing anti-democratic illiberal arguments. Through this adaptable hermeneutic framework, the Russian authorities tend to relativize the concept of democracy, criticizing, and dismissing the relevance of liberal democracy. Simultaneously, they articulate a distinct “sovereign” version of democracy and claim that non-liberal regimes are legitimate forms of political modernity. The autocratic political discourse on democracy is intrinsically non-democratic, as the lack of intellectual autonomy, control, and closure of discourse constrain the scope of meaning. The resulting heteronomous conception of democracy presents a static and ahistorical society predestined to (re)produce a single pro-authoritarian cultural-political pattern.
Variations of Freelancers’ “Effort-Bargain” Experiences in Platform Work: The Role of Skills
Authors: Pulignano Valeria , Muszyński Karol , Tapia Maite
Published: August 2024

This article delves into freelancers’“effort-bargain” experiences within platform work, where effort is exchanged for income. The study of experiences enables us to understand how freelancer–platform relationships evolve in light of the platforms’ lack of recognition of freelancers’ skills. Drawing on 63 interviews across four platforms within the online labor market (OLM), the authors present a theoretical framework explaining a “skill-driven continuum” in such relationships. At one extreme ( cooperation), freelancers experience the effort-bargain as recognition exchange, facilitated by non-competitive, regular transactions allowing them to monetize their skills. At the other extreme ( exploitation), freelancers experience their skills going unrecognized because of competitive bidding for casual gigs. While freelancers with specialized skills are sometimes able to disintermediate, thereby retaining recognition by claiming autonomy and monetary gains, those with generalized skills may resort to gaming, seeking to gain recognition by boosting their ratings. The authors provide insights into freelancers’ effort-bargain experiences by the meanings associated with skill-recognition and skill-exchange.
The Relationship Between Three Sources of Social Support and Physical Activity Level in Middle-Aged and Older Adults
Authors: Yuan Shuhan , Elam Kit K. , Johnston Jeanne D. , Lin Hsien-Chang , Chow Angela
Published: August 2024

This study examined how different sources of social support from family members (excluding partners), friends, and partners were associated with moderate and vigorous leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) among middle-aged and older adults. This study included married participants aged 45 or older ( N = 2,155) from the Midlife in the United States secondary data set. Hierarchical linear regression was performed to investigate the relationship between the three sources of social support and moderate LTPA, and separately, with vigorous LTPA. Partner support ( b = 0.19, p < .01), family support ( b = −0.19, p < .01), and friend support ( b = 0.26, p < .001) were all significantly associated with moderate LTPA. Only social support from friends was associated with vigorous LTPA ( b = 0.24, p < .001). Our study emphasizes the significance of social support in influencing LTPA behaviors among middle-aged and older adults. Future programs promoting physical activity should incorporate social support from friends to have the greatest impact.
The associations between sibling influence and perception of sibling relationship quality among adolescents: The moderating role of birth order
Authors: Dong Qiyiru , Chen Bin-Bin
Published: August 2024

This study examined the longitudinal associations between perception of sibling relationship quality (i.e., sibling warmth and conflict) and sibling influence (i.e., sibling modeling and differentiation), as well as the potential moderating role of birth order among Chinese adolescents. Participants were 150 adolescents ( Mage = 12.84 years, SD = 0.71; gender combination: 41.22% same-sex pairs) from Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. Measures of sibling relationship quality and sibling influence were collected via self-reports at two time points, 6 months apart. We study at the individual level and the target child is one of a pair of siblings. Results based on a cross-lagged model indicated that (a) perceiving sibling relationship as warmer positively predicted imitating one’s sibling, (b) imitating one’s sibling positively predicted perceiving sibling relationship as more conflicted for younger siblings but not for older siblings, and (c) perceiving sibling relationship as warmer positively predicted differentiating one’s sibling for older siblings but not for younger siblings. These findings illustrate reciprocal associations between perception of sibling relationship quality and sibling influence.
On language, children and books / Sobre lenguaje, infancia y libros
Authors: Sénéchal Monique
Published: August 2024

Understanding how children learn requires three levels of evidence: observations, correlations and experiments. Observations are necessary to allow one to describe patterns of behaviours, while correlational research is necessary to establish that the observed patterns are not due to chance and therefore suggests that they may also exist in the population. A critical integration of the accumulated evidence is necessary to establish testable models of how children learn. Then, interventions, using experimental paradigms, are necessary to assess whether the models established from the two previous steps actually account for child learning. Herein, I described the research that my colleagues and I conducted on reading books to young children — research that addressed the three levels of evidence described above. I also reviewed findings on how digital books can potentially be used to promote language and comprehension skills. Prior to doing so, however, I described the path that led me to study how children learn language from shared reading experiences. The conclusion provides avenues for future research.
From “Papito Corazón” to Economic Hardship: An Intersectional Analysis of Child Support Debt among Low-Income Mothers in Chile
Authors: Pérez-Roa Lorena , Gallardo Rocío
Published: August 2024

This study examines child support debt through an intersectional lens, focusing on its disproportionate impact on women and its unique implications within social relationships. Drawing from a 10-month longitudinal qualitative study with low-income mothers in Santiago, Chile, we challenge existing regulations governing child support provisions. We uncover discrepancies between judicial regulations and women's economic realities, revealing how current laws favor middle-class men. We explore the distinctions women make in delineating this debt relationship and the unique social dynamics involved. The research highlights how child support debt impacts women's identity construction and agency. By integrating intersectional analysis, the study underscores the complexity of child support debt, emphasizing the need to consider gender, class, and social context in understanding this phenomenon. Our findings suggest that current regulations fail to address the needs of low-income women, highlighting the importance of policy reforms to ensure equitable support.
Trends in HIV incidence and mortality across Bharat (India) after the emergence of COVID-19
Authors: Varshney Karan , Mustafa Ashmit D
Published: August 2024

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a sexually transmitted infection impacting populations worldwide. While there have been major improvements in controlling HIV over recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic may have potentially resulted in major interruptions to this control of HIV. Bharat (India) is a country that has been greatly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and we aimed to analyse the trends in HIV control since the start of the pandemic.

Methods

In this study we evaluated changes in rates of HIV incidence and mortality across Bharat for the years both before, and after, the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Percent and absolute changes were determined, and thereafter, both bivariate and multi linear regression was conducted to evaluate the relationship between COVID-19 burden and changes in HIV epidemiology across the nation.

Results

It was shown that, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, annual incidence and deaths of HIV/AIDS have both decreased across Bharat. From 2019–2021, in Bharat, the total number of new HIV cases annually decreased by 9.03%, and the total number of HIV/AIDS deaths annually decreased by 28.82%. A similar trend was shown across most states/union territories; however, there were notable exceptions (such as Karnataka, Bihar, and Assam) where the rates have instead increased.

Conclusions

Our analysis has demonstrated that government efforts to control the HIV/AIDS epidemic have not been greatly impacted across the majority of Bharat since the emergence of COVID-19. The reduction in annual HIV/AIDS deaths in the country has been better than the world average, and the improvements from the period of 2019 to 2021 were greater than those from 2017 to 2019. Regardless, there are regions in the nation where the epidemic has instead worsened during this period.
A dependent circular-linear model for multivariate biomechanical data: Ilizarov ring fixator study
Authors: Nagar Priyanka , Bekker Andriette , Arashi Mohammad , Kat Cor-Jacques , Barnard Annette-Christi
Published: August 2024

Biomechanical and orthopaedic studies frequently encounter complex datasets that encompass both circular and linear variables. In most cases (i) the circular and linear variables are considered in isolation with dependency between variables neglected and (ii) the cyclicity of the circular variables is disregarded resulting in erroneous decision making. Given the inherent characteristics of circular variables, it is imperative to adopt methods that integrate directional statistics to achieve precise modelling. This paper is motivated by the modelling of biomechanical data, that is, the fracture displacements, that is used as a measure in external fixator comparisons. We focus on a dataset, based on an Ilizarov ring fixator, comprising of six variables. A modelling framework applicable to the six-dimensional joint distribution of circular-linear data based on vine copulas is proposed. The pair-copula decomposition concept of vine copulas represents the dependence structure as a combination of circular-linear, circular-circular and linear-linear pairs modelled by their respective copulas. This framework allows us to assess the dependencies in the joint distribution as well as account for the cyclicity of the circular variables. Thus, a new approach for accurate modelling of mechanical behaviour for Ilizarov ring fixators and other data of this nature is imparted.
Chemical surface modification of pineapple leaf fiber for polymer composites applications: Comparative study
Authors: Laftah Waham Ashaier , Wan Abdul Rahman Wan Aizan
Published: August 2024

The sizing of pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) using cornstarch, polyvinyl acetate (PVA), and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) was analyzed, incorporating glycerol and urea as a plasticizer and stabilizer, respectively. The impact of various sizing agents on the physical properties of PALF was evaluated. A comparison between treated and untreated PALF was conducted using FTIR, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and tenacity testing. The thermal stability of PALF improved with PVA treatment, showing decomposition temperatures of 363.831°C after modification compared to 343.163°C before modification. Conversely, CMC and cornstarch did not affect PALF's thermal stability. The tenacity test revealed that untreated PALF had the highest breaking force, while the elongation at break increased after sizing. The drying rate of PALF decreased post-sizing, whereas water absorption increased with CMC, PVA, and cornstarch treatments. Overall, sizing agents enhanced the handling and physical properties of PALF, indicating its potential as an alternative material source for textile applications.
Autogenous Bilateral Cleft Alveolar Bone Grafting with rhBMP-2 and Cellular Bone Matrix
Authors: Harrison Lucas M. , Hallac Rami R. , Seaward James , Kane Alex A. , Park Yong-Jong
Published: August 2024

Alveolar bone grafting (ABG) in bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP) patients provides a reconstructive challenge. We present a novel technique of combining autologous iliac crest bone graft (ICBG) with recombinant human bone morphogenic protein 2 (rhBMP-2) and cellular bone matrix (CBM) for ABG in BCLP patients. Complete bone fill occurred in 90% of patients, with 100% having bilateral canine eruption. No patients required repeat ABG, and no significant complications were reported. The alveolar cleft gap volume significantly decreased with an improvement of 75.87%. ABG with autologous ICBG with rhBMP-2 and CBM is an effective technique for patients with BCLP.
A Sustainable Solution for Reducing Draping Waste in Cleft Surgeries
Authors: Qureshi Umer , Hallman Taylor , Arcelona Christian , Reisner Kathryn , Figueroa Ariel E. , Gutowski Kristof S. , Donaldson Rachel , Gosain Arun K.
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aims to reduce the waste generated from primary cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) repair.

Design

A retrospective chart review examined a single surgeon's experience with CL/P repair using standard draping technique and reduced draping technique. Fisher's exact tests were performed comparing complication rates between techniques.

Setting

All procedures were conducted at a single academic medical center under the care of a board-certified pediatric plastic surgeon and fellowship-trained pediatric anesthesiologists.

Patients

The study included all patients ≤ 24 months of age who underwent primary CL/P repair using a reduced draping technique at the senior author's institution. An equivalent number of patients who underwent CL/P repair by the senior author immediately prior to implementation of the reduced draping technique were included for comparison.

Intervention

Patients undergoing CL/P repair before the change in technique were draped using the standard CL/P draping. The senior author then switched to using a reduced draping on all CL/P repairs afterwards.

Main Outcome Measures

Weights and costs of both draping sets were obtained and differences calculated. A manual chart review was performed to assess rates of accidental intraoperative extubation, postoperative infection, fistula formation, and wound dehiscence.

Results

The implementation of a reduced draping technique resulted in a 530 gram weight savings and $7.49 cost savings per procedure. Fisher's exact tests revealed no statistically significant differences in complication rates except for oral mucosal dehiscence, which was lower in the reduced draping group.

Conclusions

Reduced draping in CL/P repairs significantly reduces operative waste without compromising surgical outcomes.