bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Independent, Stratified, and Joint Associations of Sedentary Time and Physical Activity With Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lucena Alves Charles Phillipe de , Leão Otávio Amaral de Andrade , Delpino Felipe Mendes , Mielke Gregore Iven , Ekelund Ulf , Costa Eduardo Caldas , Crochemore-Silva Inácio
Published: August 2024

Background: Recent statistics highlight cardiovascular diseases (CVD) as a major global cause of death. This review examines the methodological approaches and the main results of independent, stratified, and joint association of sedentary time (ST) and physical activity (PA) on CVD outcomes. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus for prospective cohorts that examined the independent, stratified, or joint associations of ST and PA with CVD outcomes. Independent associations were defined as analyses mutually adjusted for PA and ST. Stratified associations were considered when there was a reference group in each stratum of PA or ST, and joint associations were defined by a single reference group for all other combined categories of ST and PA levels. Results: Of 45 articles, 69% explored independent association of ST or PA on CVD outcomes, while 31% using a stratified/joint approach. Most studies used self-reports for ST and PA and focused on CVD mortality. Mutually adjusted analyses identified ST positively and PA inversely associated to CVD outcomes. Stratified studies showed higher ST’s pronounced impact on CVD for lower PA levels. High PA mitigated but did not eliminate ST’s negative impact. Joint analyses revealed highest CVD risk in those with both high ST and low PA, and elevated risk in various intermediate combinations. Conclusions: Employing independent, stratified, and joint association approaches can yield distinct and complementary public health messages aimed at promoting cardiovascular health. Recommendations should aim to not only to encourage boosting PA levels, but also, concurrently decrease ST.
A high-throughput microfabricated platform for rapid quantification of metastatic potential
Authors: Bhattacharya Smiti , Ettela Abora , Haydak Jonathan , Hobson Chad M. , Stern Alan , Yoo Miran , Chew Teng-Leong , Gusella G. Luca , Gallagher Emily J. , Hone James C. , Azeloglu Evren U.
Published: August 2024

Assays that measure morphology, proliferation, motility, deformability, and migration are used to study the invasiveness of cancer cells. However, native invasive potential of cells may be hidden from these contextual metrics because they depend on culture conditions. We created a micropatterned chip that mimics the native environmental conditions, quantifies the invasive potential of tumor cells, and improves our understanding of the malignancy signatures. Unlike conventional assays, which rely on indirect measurements of metastatic potential, our method uses three-dimensional microchannels to measure the basal native invasiveness without chemoattractants or microfluidics. No change in cell death or proliferation is observed on our chips. Using six cancer cell lines, we show that our system is more sensitive than other motility-based assays, measures of nuclear deformability, or cell morphometrics. In addition to quantifying metastatic potential, our platform can distinguish between motility and invasiveness, help study molecular mechanisms of invasion, and screen for targeted therapeutics.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza A virus subtype H5N1 (clade 2.3.4.4b) isolated from a natural protected area in Peru
Authors: Landazabal-Castillo Sandra , Suarez-Agüero Dilan , Alva-Alvarez Lucero , Mamani-Zapana Enrique , Mayta-Huatuco Egma
Published: August 2024

The panzootic caused by H5N1 avian influenza viruses is a high concern for wild birds’ conservation and the study of spillover events into mammals. The near coding-complete genome of H5N1 clade 2.3.3.4b sequencing in the Miseq Illumina platform was performed from a bird located in Pantanos of Villa National Wildlife Refuge.
Analysis of Explosive Power of Athletes Based on Speed Acquisition Sensor
Authors: Yin Changyuan , Huang Lun
Published: August 2024

Explosive power is one of the key basic indicators for improving the best athletic performance of athletes. The exploration of explosive power has always been an important topic in the field of physical education and research. Artificial intelligence technology has been widely used in the field of sports. Based on the explosive power data collected by the tension pressure sensor and speed acquisition sensor, multi-sensor data fusion technology is introduced to comprehensively analyze the key factors affecting the explosive power of athletes. By analyzing the theoretical basis of data fusion, the algorithm structure of multi-source data fusion is described from multiple levels and the mathematical model of simple multi-Bayesian data fusion algorithm is optimized and updated. Based on the characteristics of motion sensor data, a scheme to improve the optimization process of the fusion algorithm is proposed to further improve the anti-interference and accuracy of data fusion. Through the simulation performance test, this research has good application value. Through simulation performance testing, we have verified the effectiveness of the system and found that it has a good application value in athlete explosive power analysis. This system can accurately evaluate the explosive power level of athletes, provide scientific training guidance for coaches and help athletes improve their sports performance.
Energy- and Resource-Efficient VM Consolidation Based on Sailfish Optimization Model for Fog and Cloud Infrastructure
Authors: Zhang Jing , Yang Tianming
Published: August 2024

FOG and Cloud computing has established itself as an important component of the computational domain, providing a wide range of server proficiencies as virtualized scalable services. Cloud datacenters utilize VM consolidation to consolidate VMs to a smaller number of physical servers in order to enhance resource utilization and energy efficiency. Incorrect VM placement, on the other hand, might result in frequent VM migrations and continual on-off switching on physical machines (PMs), lowering service quality and increasing energy usage. To address this issue, we present a VM consolidation strategy based on Sailfish Optimization that is both effective and efficient. The performance evaluation of the proposed method observed a significant reduction in power consumption, SLA violation and execution time up to 25%, 22% and 6%, respectively, and increased resource utilization up to 17% as compared to existing models.
miRNA‐221: A Potential Biomarker of Progressive Liver Injury in Chronic Liver Disease (CLD) due to Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Authors: Sutradhar Parthana Rani , Sultana Nahida , Nessa Afzalun
Published: August 2024

Background: Early detection of progressive liver damage in chronic liver disease (CLD) patients is crucial for better treatment response. Several studies have shown the association of microRNA (miRNA) in the progression of CLD in regulating cell proliferation, fibrosis, and apoptosis as well as in carcinogenesis.

Objectives: The study was aimed at determining the expression of miRNA‐221 among different stages of fibrosis in CLD patients due to hepatitis B virus (HBV) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and thus evaluate its role as an early biomarker in CLD.

Methods: A total of 100 participants (75 CLD patients and 25 healthy control) were recruited in this cross‐sectional study and divided into four groups, of which 25 as healthy control, 25 in CLD without fibrosis, 25 were CLD with fibrosis, and 25 were CLD with cirrhosis. Total RNA was extracted from plasma followed by cDNA synthesis, and finally, the expression of miRNA‐221 was analyzed for its diagnostic potential as a single biomarker using the qRT‐PCR method.

Results: The plasma level of miRNA‐221 was significantly upregulated in different fibrosis stages of CLD (p < 0.05), and this upregulation was positively correlated with the progression of fibrosis (p < 0.05). Significantly increased expression of miRNA‐221 was found in NAFLD patients compared to HBV patients in the CLD without fibrosis patient group (p < 0.05), while expression of miRNA‐221 was significantly upregulated among HBV patients in the CLD with the fibrosis group. miRNA‐221 showed high diagnostic accuracy in discriminating different stages of fibrosis from healthy control (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: miRNA‐221 may be used as a potential plasma biomarker for early prediction of fibrosis progression in CLD patients.
Quantifying the Effect of Pyrotechnics on the Architectonic Heritage
Authors: Lloret Angel T. , Sendra Sandra , Jimenez Jose M. , Lloret Jaime
Published: August 2024

The renowned Moors and Christians celebrations held in Alicante (specifically in Villajoyosa), are widely appreciated for their authentic recreations of historical events and battles that took place during the sixteenth century. Moreover, Villajoyosa is famous for its excellent state of conservation of architectonic elements such as walls, facades, watchtowers, churches, or fortifications. However, due to the poor information, these events have been moved to different places to the ones where the original battles happened. Hence, this study presents a practical examination aimed at cataloging and characterizing the impact of pyrotechnics and firing weapons in close proximity to these architectural elements. In order to gather these data, multiple sound‐level meters and accelerometers were strategically positioned on the building. Six arquebusiers fire their weapons to emulate the effect of this festival. Thanks to the obtained results, we have been able to propose some recommendations to move these events to the original emplacement at the time of protecting our heritage.
Therapeutic Potential of Acanthospermum hispidum: A Comprehensive Analysis of Its Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Anticancer Properties
Authors: Moglad Ehssan H. , Alnoor Alshaimaa A. , Eltayeb Nagla M. , Abdalkareem Eshtiyag A. , Ali Amna , Oraiby Magbool E. , Sultana Shahnaz , Khalid Asaad , Abdalla Ashraf N.
Published: August 2024

Acanthospermum hispidum DC. is a plant with extensive traditional use in folk medicine for treatment of various infections in Sudan including jaundice, stomach discomfort, constipation, and viral infections. This research was carried out to explore the biological and chemical properties of the crude extract of A. hispidum. Ethanol crude extract was prepared from the aerial parts of the plant and investigated for antibacterial action against standard monoderm and diderm bacteria using the cup plate method. Free radical scavenging was investigated out by using the DPPH method. Cytotoxicity assay was performed against human breast cancer cell line MCF7 using the MTT assay. Bioactive compounds were identified using GC‐MS. The ethanolic extract of A. hispidum revealed antibacterial activity against all the tested bacteria. Also, the extract exhibited potent antioxidant activity at 0.5 mg/ml using DPPH (83% ± 00.09). The cytotoxicity against MCF7 revealed potent growth inhibition activity (IC50 75.8 µg/ml). GC‐MS analysis revealed the presence of ethyl α‐d‐glucopyranoside, hexadecanoic acid, stigmasterol, β‐sitosterol, undecanoic acid, phytol, alloaromadendrene oxide, 3‐cyclopentylpropionic acid, 2‐dimethylaminoethyl ester, and longifolenaldehyde in aerial parts of A. hispidum, all of which support antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties.
Inhibition of SUMOylation Induces Adaptive Antitumor Immunity against Pancreatic Cancer through Multiple Effects on the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Erdem Suna , Lee Hyojae James , Shankara Narayanan Jayanth Surya Narayanan , Tharuka Mohottige Don Neranjan , De la Torre Jorge , Ren Tianchen , Kuang Yixuan , Abeywardana Tharindumala , Li Kevin , Berger Allison J. , Lowy Andrew M. , White Rebekah R. , Chen Yuan
Published: August 2024

Improvement of outcome in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) requires exploration of novel therapeutic targets. Thus far, most studies of PDAC therapies, including those inhibiting small ubiquitin-like modifications (SUMOylation), have focused on PDAC epithelial cell biology, yet SUMOylation occurs in a variety of cell types. The mechanisms by which SUMOylation impacts PDAC in the context of its tumor microenvironment are poorly understood. We used clinically relevant orthotopic PDAC mouse models to investigate the effect of SUMOylation inhibition using a specific, clinical-stage compound, TAK-981. In contrast to its inhibition of PDAC cell proliferation in vitro, the survival benefit conferred by TAK-981 in vivo is dependent on the presence of T cells, suggesting that induction of adaptive antitumor immunity is an important antitumor effect of SUMOylation inhibition in vivo. To understand how this adaptive antitumor immunity is promoted, we investigated how SUMOylation inhibition in vivo alters major cell types/subtypes and their communications in the PDAC tumor microenvironment by performing transcriptomic analyses at single-cell resolution, which allowed mapping of cells in our orthotopic mouse model to cells in human PDAC tumors based on gene expression profiles. Findings are further validated by flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, IHC, western blots, and qPCR. The single-cell transcriptome dataset provided here suggests several combination strategies to augment adaptive immune responses that are necessary for durable disease control in patients with PDAC.
Supplementary Table 8 from Spatial Landscape of Malignant Pleural and Peritoneal Mesothelioma Tumor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Ma Xiaojun , Lembersky David , Kim Elena S. , Becich Michael J. , Testa Joseph R. , Bruno Tullia C. , Osmanbeyoglu Hatice U.
Published: August 2024

Comparison of cell–cell contact score differences between malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) and malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPeM).
Table S5 from Development and Application of Genetic Ancestry Reconstruction Methods to Study Diversity of Patient-Derived Models in the NCI PDXNet Consortium
Authors: Lott Paul C. , Chiu Katherine , Quino Juanita Elizabeth , Vang April Pangia , Lloyd Michael W. , Srivastava Anuj , Chuang Jeffrey H. , Carvajal-Carmona Luis G.
Published: August 2024

Mean and Stdev of differences for 5 continental ancestral estimations between SNPWeights Panel and 1000Genomes K=10 Admixture Estimates by individual's super-population designation.
Supplementary Table 7 from Spatial Landscape of Malignant Pleural and Peritoneal Mesothelioma Tumor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Ma Xiaojun , Lembersky David , Kim Elena S. , Becich Michael J. , Testa Joseph R. , Bruno Tullia C. , Osmanbeyoglu Hatice U.
Published: August 2024

Comparison of clinical parameters between malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) and malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPeM) for various cell types.
Table S4 from Development and Application of Genetic Ancestry Reconstruction Methods to Study Diversity of Patient-Derived Models in the NCI PDXNet Consortium
Authors: Lott Paul C. , Chiu Katherine , Quino Juanita Elizabeth , Vang April Pangia , Lloyd Michael W. , Srivastava Anuj , Chuang Jeffrey H. , Carvajal-Carmona Luis G.
Published: August 2024

Ancestral estimates 1000Genomes individuals (n=929) not used in reference panel generation. Estimates calculated from 1000Genomes K=10 admixture data, SNPWeights Panel, and the differences between these estimates for each individual.
Supplementary Table 3 from Spatial Landscape of Malignant Pleural and Peritoneal Mesothelioma Tumor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Ma Xiaojun , Lembersky David , Kim Elena S. , Becich Michael J. , Testa Joseph R. , Bruno Tullia C. , Osmanbeyoglu Hatice U.
Published: August 2024

Comparison of differences in cell–cell contact scores between malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) and malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPeM) tumors.
Supplementary Table 1 from Spatial Landscape of Malignant Pleural and Peritoneal Mesothelioma Tumor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Ma Xiaojun , Lembersky David , Kim Elena S. , Becich Michael J. , Testa Joseph R. , Bruno Tullia C. , Osmanbeyoglu Hatice U.
Published: August 2024

Dataset characteristics
Supplementary Figure 2 from Spatial Landscape of Malignant Pleural and Peritoneal Mesothelioma Tumor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Ma Xiaojun , Lembersky David , Kim Elena S. , Becich Michael J. , Testa Joseph R. , Bruno Tullia C. , Osmanbeyoglu Hatice U.
Published: August 2024

MM intra-tumor heterogeneity and survival analysis. (A) Comparison of TMA core cell-type proportions within patients and across patients. Each value in the boxplot represents the Pearson correlation coefficients between cell-type proportions across cores from different patients and cores within individual patients. (B) Kaplan-Meier survival curves of MM patients that categorized into two groups based on intra-tumor heterogeneity: those with high intra-tumor heterogeneity (Shannon entropy > 0.6 quantile) shown in blue, and those with low intra-tumor heterogeneity (Shannon entropy < 0.4 quantile) depicted in yellow.
Supplementary Data from Development and Application of Genetic Ancestry Reconstruction Methods to Study Diversity of Patient-Derived Models in the NCI PDXNet Consortium
Authors: Lott Paul C. , Chiu Katherine , Quino Juanita Elizabeth , Vang April Pangia , Lloyd Michael W. , Srivastava Anuj , Chuang Jeffrey H. , Carvajal-Carmona Luis G.
Published: August 2024

The full list of collaborators for PDXNet Consortium and Supplementary Data and Methods
Figure S3 from Development and Application of Genetic Ancestry Reconstruction Methods to Study Diversity of Patient-Derived Models in the NCI PDXNet Consortium
Authors: Lott Paul C. , Chiu Katherine , Quino Juanita Elizabeth , Vang April Pangia , Lloyd Michael W. , Srivastava Anuj , Chuang Jeffrey H. , Carvajal-Carmona Luis G.
Published: August 2024

Figure S3 Shows the Power to detect a driver mutation that is absent in EUR but present in a non-EUR category at varying low frequencies.
Figure 3 from Spatial Landscape of Malignant Pleural and Peritoneal Mesothelioma Tumor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Ma Xiaojun , Lembersky David , Kim Elena S. , Becich Michael J. , Testa Joseph R. , Bruno Tullia C. , Osmanbeyoglu Hatice U.
Published: August 2024

Immune cell phenotypes associated with clinical features. A, Prevalence of all cell types in MPM epithelioid (n = 45), biphasic (n = 16), and sarcomatoid (n = 7) subtypes (left) and MPeM epithelioid (n = 12) and biphasic (n = 3) subtypes (right) presented as the proportion of total cells. Statistical analysis was performed using one-sided Multiple Mann–Whitney nonparametric U tests. *, P < 0.05. B, Bubble plot illustrating significance levels, in which circle size corresponds to the level of significance, and circle color indicates which of the two comparisons on the y-axis shows higher levels of the cell type plotted on the x-axis. C, Box plots displaying cell-type proportion across different clinical subgroups in patients with MPM and MPeM. Statistical analysis was conducted using one-sided multiple Mann–Whitney U tests. P < 0.05 was considered significant. The center of the box plot represents the median, with the box boundaries indicating the 25th and 75th percentiles. Whiskers extend to the minimum and maximum values in the dataset.
Figure S2 from Development and Application of Genetic Ancestry Reconstruction Methods to Study Diversity of Patient-Derived Models in the NCI PDXNet Consortium
Authors: Lott Paul C. , Chiu Katherine , Quino Juanita Elizabeth , Vang April Pangia , Lloyd Michael W. , Srivastava Anuj , Chuang Jeffrey H. , Carvajal-Carmona Luis G.
Published: August 2024

Figure S2 shows Diversity of genetic ancestry estimates from PDXNet breast cancer models. A: Inferred genetic ancestry for 115 breast cancer models in PDXnet. B: Top two categories for 26 "MIXED" samp
Figure 2 from Spatial Landscape of Malignant Pleural and Peritoneal Mesothelioma Tumor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Ma Xiaojun , Lembersky David , Kim Elena S. , Becich Michael J. , Testa Joseph R. , Bruno Tullia C. , Osmanbeyoglu Hatice U.
Published: August 2024

Interactions between immune cells and tumor cells in malignant mesothelioma. A, Heatmap depicting cell–cell contacts in patients with MPM or MPeM. Columns represent normalized pairwise cell–cell contact scores, and rows represent samples. B, Comparison of contact scores between tumor cells and the overall immune cell population and contact scores specifically involving tumor cells and CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, macrophages, and Tregs between cohorts of patients with MPM and MPeM. Statistical analysis was performed using FDR-adjusted one-sided multiple Mann–Whitney U tests. Each dot represents the cell contact score of an individual core. C, Representative cases from two samples with MPM and two patients with MPeM demonstrating mIF, H&E staining, and cell-type analyses. Images were captured at 10× magnification. Scale bar, 100 μm. D, Heatmap depicting types of CNs (rows) and relative enrichment above or below the mean across neighborhoods for B cells (CD20+), CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, Tregs (FOXP3+), tumor cells (Pan-CK+), and macrophages (CD68+). Likelihood of enrichment was calculated as log odds ratio values normalized between 5 and −5. E, Pie charts representing median relative contributions of CNs in MPM (top) and MPeM (bottom) biologically independent samples.
Figure 1 from Spatial Landscape of Malignant Pleural and Peritoneal Mesothelioma Tumor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Ma Xiaojun , Lembersky David , Kim Elena S. , Becich Michael J. , Testa Joseph R. , Bruno Tullia C. , Osmanbeyoglu Hatice U.
Published: August 2024

Profiling the spatial landscape of malignant mesothelioma using mIF. A, Schematic diagram outlining the acquisition of multiplexed immunofluorescence images from patients with malignant mesothelioma generated using BioRender.com. B, Waterfall plot depicting the distribution of cell populations as a percentage of all cells in the TIME, categorized by CD8+ T cells and sorted across histologic subgroups within MPM and MPeM. Vertical bars represent cell percentages, with distinct colors corresponding to various cell lineages. C, Pie charts depicting the mean cellular composition in samples with MPM and MPeM, including relative frequencies of B cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, Tregs, macrophages, DCs, NK cells, pan-CK+ tumor cells, and unidentified cells. D, Assessment of the prevalence of CD8+ T cells and pan-CK+ tumor cells in MPM and MPeM as a fraction of the total cell population. P values were calculated using the one-sided Mann–Whitney U test. RPCI, Roswell Park Cancer Institute; UPENN, University of Pennsylvania; UPITT, University of Pittsburgh.
Exploring the Link: Trichostasis Spinulosa and Its Association with Early Phymatous Rosacea
Authors: Andrea Sechi , Luca Mariano , Arturo Galvan
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with several clinical subtypes, including phymatous rosacea, which is distinguished by thickened skin, enlarged pores, and irregular surface nodularities, primarily affecting the nose. This manuscript aims to explore the underrecognized connection between early to moderate phymatous rosacea and trichostasis spinulosa (TS), a follicular disorder characterized by the retention of multiple telogen hairs. Methods: A total of consecutive 13 patients with initial phymatous changes and black dilated openings were enrolled. Detailed dermatological assessments, including dermoscopy, were conducted to identify and confirm trichostasis spinulosa. Dermoscopy of the black openings confirmed the presence of hair tufts emerging from dilated follicular openings and plugs. Patients underwent minor procedures using a comedo extractor to remove the hair bundles. Results: All extracted follicular units showed typical characteristics of trichostasis spinulosa, including bundles of telogen hairs surrounded by a sebokeratinous plug. Conclusion: We postulate that the fibrotic processes characteristic of phymatous rosacea may promote the development of TS. Recognizing TS as an early indicator of phymatous rosacea could help prevent disease progression.
A Propensity Score-Based Comparison regarding Renal, Functional, and Surgical Outcome of Continent Cutaneous Urinary Diversions in Patients with Benign Chronic Bladder Diseases and Patients with Bladder Cancer
Authors: Scheper Vincent , Seitz Anna Katharina , Kübler Hubert , Kocot Arkadius , Kalogirou Charis , Schwinger Marcel
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Continent cutaneous urinary diversion post-cystectomy is an established approach addressing both oncological and functional indications. However, there is a noticeable gap of evidence when it comes to comparing outcomes between these indications, especially concerning the technique of Mainz pouch I (MPI). This study aimed to close the gap by analyzing the long-term functional and renal outcomes of patients with MPI after cystectomy due to both benign and malign bladder pathologies. Methods: In this retrospective study, we examined 173 patients, who underwent MPI surgery between 2000 and 2022. Patients were categorized into a study group (benign conditions, n = 26) and a control group (bladder cancer, n = 52) using propensity score matching. Clinical demographics, surgical outcomes, and functional/renal parameters were analyzed using unpaired t tests and χ2 tests. Results: Patients undergoing cystectomy with MPI due to benign bladder pathologies were significantly younger and had a lower comorbidity burden compared to those with bladder cancer. In contrast to a significantly higher incidence of chemotherapy in the oncological cohort, the long-term renal function was comparable between both populations. Surgical outcomes, revisions, and postoperative complications did not differ significantly between both groups. Nearly 90% of patients in both groups showed full continence. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the efficacy and safety of MPI surgery in both benign and malignant conditions, proving favorable long-term renal and functional outcomes.
Evolving Novel Gene Regulatory Networks for Structural Engineering Designs
Authors: Dubey Rahul , Hickinbotham Simon , Colligan Andrew , Friel Imelda , Buchanan Edgar , Price Mark , Tyrrell Andy M.
Published: August 2024

Engineering design optimization poses a significant challenge, usually requiring human expertise to discover superior solutions. Although various search techniques have been employed to generate diverse designs, their effectiveness is often limited by problem-specific parameter tuning, making them less generalizable and scalable. This article introduces a framework inspired by evolutionary and developmental (evo-devo) concepts, aiming to automate the evolution of structural engineering designs. In biological systems, evo-devo governs the growth of single-cell organisms into multicellular organisms through the use of gene regulatory networks (GRNs). GRNs are inherently complex and highly nonlinear, and this article explores the use of neural networks and genetic programming as artificial representations of GRNs to emulate such behaviors. To evolve a wide range of Pareto fronts for artificial GRNs, this article introduces a new technique, a real value–encoded neuroevolutionary method termed real-encoded NEAT (RNEAT). The performance of RNEAT is compared with that of two well-known evolutionary search techniques across different 2-D and 3-D problems. The experimental results demonstrate two key findings. First, the proposed framework effectively generates a population of GRNs that can produce diverse structures for both 2-D and 3-D problems. Second, the proposed RNEAT algorithm outperforms its competitors on more than 50% of the problems examined. These results validate the proof of concept underlying the proposed evo-devo-based engineering design evolution.
Signatures of time interval reproduction in the human electroencephalogram (EEG)
Authors: McCone Harvey , Butler John. S. , O’Connell Redmond. G.
Published: August 2024

Accurate timing is essential for coordinating our actions in everyday tasks such as playing music and sport. Although an extensive body of research has examined the human electrophysiological signatures underpinning timing, the specific dynamics of these signals remain unclear. Here, we recorded electroencephalography (EEG) while participants performed a variant of a time interval reproduction task that has previously been administered to macaques, and examined how task performance was predicted by the dynamics of three well-known EEG signals: limb-selective motor preparation in the mu/beta band (8–30 Hz), the Contingent Negative Variation (CNV), and the Centro-Parietal Positivity (CPP) evidence accumulation signal. In close correspondence with single unit recordings in macaques, contralateral mu/beta signals indicated that participants reproduced intervals by adjusting the starting level and build-up rate of motor preparation to reach a response triggering threshold at the desired time. The CNV showed a highly similar pattern with the exception that its pre-response amplitude was increased for faster reproductions. This pattern of results suggests that, rather than tracing a veridical temporal accumulator as had been suggested in earlier work, the CNV more closely resembles a dynamic anticipatory signal. In contrast, the CPP did not exhibit any relationship with reproduction time, suggesting that the evidence accumulation processes guiding perceptual decisions are not involved in generating representations of elapsed time. Our findings highlight close similarities in the dynamics exhibited by intracranial and non-invasive motor preparation signals during interval reproduction while indicating that the CNV traces a functionally distinct process whose precise role remains to be understood.
Southernmost record of Pagurus chevreuxi (Decapoda, Anomura, Paguridae) off the Canary Islands
Authors: González José A. , Telle Arthur
Published: August 2024

We are reporting for the first time the presence of the hermit crab Pagurus chevreuxi (Bouvier, 1896) (Paguridae) in the Canary Islands. This finding is based on the collection of three individuals and the sighting of several additional specimens on the coast of Lanzarote. The collection, at coordinates 28°55′N, establishes a new southern distribution limit for this species. The species’ geographical distribution aligns perfectly with the typical Atlanto-Mediterranean biogeographic pattern, which is characterized by benthic species showing a clear affinity for warm-temperate waters.
A revision of the Madagascan freshwater crab genus Hydrothelphusa A. Milne-Edwards, 1872 (Brachyura, Deckeniidae, Hydrothelphusinae), with a new species of this genus from northern Madagascar
Authors: Cumberlidge Neil , Soma Julia B. , Leever Ellen M. , Daniels Savel R.
Published: August 2024

The Madagascan freshwater crab genus Hydrothelphusa is revised and a new species of this genus from northern Madagascar is described. A revised identification key to distinguish among the species now assigned to Hydrothelphusa is provided. The new species, H. christophamon n. sp. is recognized based on a combination of morphological characters and previous molecular data and is illustrated here. The addition of the new species to Hydrothelphusa brings the number of species in this genus to four, with the others being H. agilis, H. madagascariensis and H. bombetokensis, that are all endemic to Madagascar.
The complete mitochondrial genome and microsatellite discovery of the Chilean kelp crab Taliepus dentatus (Brachuyra, Majoidea)
Authors: Valenzuela-Carvajal Pablo , Rojas-Hernandez Noemi , Veliz David , Fibla Pablo , Pardo Luis Miguel
Published: August 2024

The complete sequence of the mitochondrial genome and fifteen microsatellite loci for the Chilean kelp crab Taliepus dentatus are reported for the first time. The DNA assembly obtained from an Illumina sequencing revealed a complete mitochondrial genome of 15 603 bp in length. The gene composition and arrangement were similar to that reported for most decapod crabs, containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes and a non-coding region. A phylogeny performed with 10 species obtained from GenBank placed T. dentatus close to individuals of the Family Epialtidae. From the 6397 repeated sequences encountered in the data, 15 microsatellite loci primers were designed and five tested for variability in specimens obtained from two sampling sites separated by 300 km of distance. The mean number of alleles per locus was nine (5–15 alleles per locus) and the observed heterozygosities ranged from 0.34 to 0.8. Departure from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium was observed in two out of the five microsatellites, while none of the loci exhibited significant linkage disequilibrium. This genetic resource will be useful for phylogeny, population genetics and parentage analysis of the commercial species T. dentatus.
Chriselatium schubarti, a new genus and new species of inland sesarmid crab from Java, Indonesia (Brachyura, Thoracotremata)
Authors: Ng Peter K. L. , Wowor Daisy
Published: August 2024

A new genus and new species of sesarmid crab is described from Bogor in West Java Province, Indonesia. Chriselatium schubarti new genus, new species, is morphologically most similar to Selatium, and Lithoselatium, but differs markedly in a suite of carapace, cheliped, ambulatory leg, and male pleonal characters. While Selatium and Lithoselatium are found in mangroves and coastal habitats, Chriselatium new genus was collected in a freshwater habitat that is over 60 km from the nearest coastline.
Further evidence for diversification within the Diogenes pugilator complex (Anomura, Diogenidae) in the Mediterranean and Black Seas
Authors: Erk Cornelia P. , Uzunova Sonya , Chartosia Niki P. , Kevrekidis Kosmas , Almón Bruno , Schubart Christoph D.
Published: August 2024

We document an unrecognised genetic lineage within the European hermit crab Diogenes pugilator species complex. Specifically, we propose the revalidation of the previously synonymised species D. ponticus, for specimens previously identified as D. pugilator from the Adriatic, Ionian, Aegean, and Black Seas. Analyses of the mitochondrial genes COI and 16S rRNA resulted in a clear genetic separation to East Atlantic and Western Mediterranean populations of Diogenes. Morphological analyses confirmed differences in the individuals assigned to D. ponticus compared to the congeners D. curvimanus and D. pugilator and thereby a concordance between molecular and morphological characters. Despite the relatively high morphological resemblance to D. armatus, the molecular differentiation and the remarkable geographic segregation within the species complex suggest at least one speciation or radiation event in the past, underlining the growing importance of molecular methods in the identification of species and evolutionarily significant units. Major oceanographic processes that are known to shape genetic variability and population genetic structure in the marine environment are pointed out as possible structuring factors for the observed intrageneric divergence. The evidence of long evolutionary independence is therefore considered sufficient to re-establish the validity of D. ponticus as a valid species in the northern-central and north-eastern Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea and is redescribed accordingly.
Global Governance in Uncertain Times: Exploring International Law’s Epistemic Function
Authors: Uruena Rene
Published: August 2024

Beyond the verification of legal indeterminacy, international law plays a crucial epistemic role in global governance. It provides cognitive categories that, organized in narratives, help constitute the “reality” in which law performs its distributive function. In fulfilling that epistemic function, international law breaches the gap between description and normativity, stabilizing particular images of reality with work-creating implications.
Law, Humanitarianism, and Critique
Authors: Soirila Ukri
Published: August 2024

The Erik Castrén Institute (eci) was founded in 1998 at a moment in history when human rights had become to be seen as the beacon of the liberal world order. However, as inevitable as the world order guided by human rights and humanitarian values might have seemed in the late 1990s, the moment soon melted into one of disenchantment, reflected in the populist backlash. This article provides an overview of law, human rights, and humanitarianism during eci’s life so far, with a special focus on how critical scholars have responded to changes in the field and to shifting constellations of power. Using Russia’s aggression against Ukraine as an example, the article also maps current trends in the field, arguing that, after the hegemony of the United States, we have now entered an era of fragmentation – an era that is characterised by strategic uses of the humanity language.
When Do Union Citizens and Their Families Have the Right to Equal Treatment on Grounds of Nationality in EU Law?
Authors: Davies Gareth
Published: August 2024

Article 18 TFEU appears to prohibit nationality discrimination throughout the scope of EU law, but the Court of Justice uses various techniques to often deny equal treatment to people who are within that scope. It wants to create a layered regime of rights, which takes account of the degree of integration and participation of Union Citizens and their families, but this ambition is in tension with the apparently simple Article 18 rule. The solution, this article suggests, is to recognize that discrimination itself is a layered concept, allowing for justified distinctions, and so for different treatment of different groups. There is a surprising amount of support for this view in the case law. The article looks at the cases on equal treatment for Union Citizens and their families, including TCN family members, and tries to provide a coherent conceptual and legal frame which explains their results.
EU Boots on the Ground and Effective Judicial Protection against Frontex’s Operational Powers in Return: Lessons from Case T‑600/21
Authors: Cornelisse Galina
Published: August 2024

This article comments on Case T-600/21 to highlight the serious shortcomings in direct actions before EU courts against allegations of fundamental rights violations by Frontex. It contributes to existing scholarship on legal accountability failings with regard to operational activities by Frontex for two reasons. First, the contribution argues that Frontex’s operational competences in the area of return are clearly circumscribed, not only by the Regulation on the European Border and Coast Guard and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU, but also by crucial substantive and procedural safeguards contained in the Return Directive. Secondly, the article proposes a number of changes to current remedies against executive action of Frontex, in particular with regard to evidentiary requirements and the qualification of the EU conduct amenable to review. It argues that Article 47 of Charter, as interpreted by the Court of Justice itself, puts that same court under a clear and unequivocal obligation to adapt its own procedures accordingly in order to protect the very core of the right to effective judicial protection, namely access to courts.
Connected by Books
Authors: Moehn W.H.Th. (Wim)
Published: August 2024

In 1555, Guy de Brès published his anthology of quotations from the church fathers under the title Le baston de la foy chrestienne. During a stay in Lausanne and Geneva, some years later, he most likely met Pierre Viret. No correspondence, however, has survived, but recent research has revealed that de Brès was perfectly aware of Viret’s French-language publications. Viret appears to have been one of de Brès’ favourite authors. He selected quotations from no fewer than eleven different books. This article aims to focus on the quotations taken from Viret’s oeuvre. First, it documents where the thematic focal points lie. For which themes did de Brès use Viret’s input? It also examines which quotations were removed during the various revisions of Le baston. Finally, the question will be answered why some of Viret’s writings were not incorporated into Le baston when, from the point of view of content, they could well have been.
The Influence of the Brussels Effect on the Interpretation of Data Protection Laws in the Gulf
Authors: Eskhita Radwan , Stamhuis Evert
Published: August 2024

This article examines the diffusion effect of the General Data Protection Regulation (gdpr) beyond the European Union borders, particularly in the Gulf Cooperation Council (gcc) countries. The article explores how the Brussels Effect (as a concept and observation) can explain non-EU jurisdictions’ voluntary adoption of gdpr standards. This article seeks to develop a corpus of reasoning that could be used to determine when and to what extent the provisions in local data protection statutes need to be interpreted and applied in conformity with gdpr-related legal sources.
Infernal Anamnesis: Dante, Theology, and Writing Addiction
Authors: Whitmore Todd
Published: August 2024

This article explores the interconnections between writing on addiction, Dante’s Comedy, and theological commitments. The narratives of addicted persons and recovery coaches come into creative play with the literature of Dante and the theological positions of Aquinas. This article explores the strengths and weaknesses of what transformation entails in the harrowing of the hell of the addiction and the hope for resurrection.
Catalpol inhibits HHcy-induced EndMT in endothelial cells by modulating ROS/NF-κB signaling
Authors: Wu Chengyan , Li Yuanhao , Liu Shuangshuang , Wang Libo , Wang Xuehui
Published: August 2024

Background

Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) is an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis (AS). Endothelial mesenchymal transition (EndMT) refers to the process in which endothelial cells lose endothelial cell morphology and characteristic gene expression, and acquire phenotypic characteristics and gene expression related to mesenchymal cells. Numerous studies have confirmed that EndMT is involved in the formation of atherosclerosis. Catalpol is one of the active components of Rehmannia, which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, neuroprotective and other biological activities. Studies have shown that catalpol can reduce atherosclerotic plaque induced by high sugar or fat. However, the effect of catalpol on HHCY-induced EndMT is unclear.

Methods and results

In vitro HHcy-treated primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were used to construct a cell model, and the antioxidants N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and catalase alcohol were administered. In vivo C57BL/6N mice were given a diet fed with 4.4% high methionine chow to construct a HHcy mice model and were treated with catalpol. The results showed that hhcy could induce morphological transformation of endothelial cells into mesenchymal cells, increase intracellular ROS content, up-regulate α-SMA, N-cadherin, p-p65 protein expression, down-regulate VE-cadherin, CD31 protein expression, induce pathological changes of aortic root endothelium, and increase aortic endothelial ROS content. Catalpol reversed these hhcy induced outcomes.

Conclusions

Catalpol inhibits HHcy-induced EndMT, and the underlying mechanism may be related to the ROS/NF-κB signaling pathway. Catalpol may be a potential drug for the treatment of HHcy-related AS.
The heavy burden and treatment challenges of fungal periprosthetic joint infection: a systematic review of 489 joints
Authors: Shang Guangqian , Zhao Siqi , Yang Shuai , Li Ji
Published: August 2024

Background

Fungal periprosthetic joint infection (FPJI) is an infrequent but devastating complication that imposes a heavy burden on patients. At present, a consensus regarding the most optimal surgical option for patients with FPJI, the ideal duration of systemic antifungal treatment, and many other issues has not been reached.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed on the PubMed and Embase databases. The search criteria employed were as follows: (fungal OR candida OR mycotic) AND periprosthetic joint infection. Initially, the titles and abstracts were screened, and subsequently, studies deemed irrelevant or duplicative were eliminated. Following this, the complete texts of remaining articles were thoroughly examined. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 489 joints in 24 articles were screened out. We further extracted the demographic characteristics (age, gender, body mass index, etc.), clinical presentation, fungal species, presence of bacterial coinfection, surgical methods, systemic and local antifungal therapy, and treatment outcomes. Subgroup data were analyzed according to fungal species and bacterial coinfection. Univariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to ascertain the risk factors associated with the infection recurrence.

Results

A total of 506 fungi were identified within 489 joints. The most prevalent fungal species were Candida albicans (41.5%). Out of 247 joints (50.5%) presenting with concurrent fungal and bacterial infections. Among the initial surgical interventions, two-stage exchange was the most common (59.1%). The infection recurrence rates of DAIR, resection arthroplasty, two-stage, one-stage, and three-stage exchange were 81.4%, 53.1%, 47.7%, 35.0%, and 30%, respectively. The mean duration of systemic antifungal therapy was 12.8 weeks. The most common drugs used both in intravenous (55.9%) and oral therapy (84.0%) were fluconazole. The proportion of patients who used antifungal drugs after replantation (two-stage and three-stage) was 87.6%. 33.2% of cement spacer or fixed cement contained antifungal drugs, of which amphotericin B was the main choice (82.7%). FPJI caused by candida albicans (OR = 1.717, p = 0.041) and DAIR (OR = 8.433, p = 0.003) were risk factors for infection recurrence.

Conclusions

Two-stage exchange remains the most commonly used surgical approach. The reliability of one- and three-exchange needs further evaluation due to the small sample size. Antifungal-loaded cement spacers, and direct intra-articular injections of antimycotics after reimplatation should be strongly considered. Medication is not standardized but rather individualized according to microbiology and the status of patients.