bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
XpuTEE: A High-Performance and Practical Heterogeneous Trusted Execution Environment for GPUs
Authors: Fan Shulin , Hua Zhichao , Xia Yubin , Chen Haibo
Published: February 2025

AI applications are employed in diverse scenarios, including data centers, personal computers, smart cars, and so on. Their privacy is threatened by the intricate software stacks and the potential malfeasance of system maintainers. The Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) has become popular for safeguarding applications from untrusted system software. However, AI applications are always speeded up with heterogeneous accelerators, e.g., GPU, which requires the TEE to be heterogeneous. A heterogeneous TEE should satisfy three requirements: 1) the joint heterogeneous abstraction that covers the CPU and GPUs and minimizes cooperation overhead among enclaves on them; 2) the high performance for supporting high-speed GPUs and introducing limited performance overhead; and 3) the compatibility with existing CPUs and GPUs so that existing machines can directly benefit from it.

To meet the above requirements, this paper introduces XpuTEE, a practical and high-performance heterogeneous TEE system. XpuTEE provides a new abstraction called XpuEnclave, comprising the CEnclave to protect CPU-side logic and numerous XEnclaves to guard GPU tasks. XpuEnclave is a joint TEE crossing the CPU and connected GPUs, and it removes all cryptographic operations and extra memory copies for CPU-GPU communication, which allows XpuTEE to achieve high performance. The results demonstrate that XpuTEE has an average performance overhead of 2.48% for common AI applications.
A Hybrid Statistical and Rule-based Approach to Extremely Low-resource Machine Transliteration
Authors: Connor Patrick Charles
Published: February 2025

Machine transliteration work has focused primarily on languages with large volumes of parallel corpus, and between language pairs whose orthographies are very different. In contrast, a large proportion of the world’s languages have vastly fewer resources and employ Roman-like alphabets often with large degrees of orthographic overlap with high-resource languages. We propose that machine transliteration between languages with few training examples can be accomplished by a noisy-channel-like statistical model captured in a human editable format with practical rule-based capabilities built-in. This hybrid approach allows users to take advantage of an algorithm to find and apply common transformations in context while providing rigorous control over the output. Effectiveness is evaluated on the Bible names translation matrix dataset of Wu et al. (2018), covering 591 languages that involve 590 names on average per language pair. Our approach slightly exceeds past results and explores several features targeted at benefiting the extremely low-resource language domain.
Bioelectronic Large-Area Transistors for High-Performance Sensing
Authors: Macchia Eleonora , Bollella Paolo , Torsi Luisa
Published: February 2025

Bioelectronics, originating from Galvani's eighteenth-century experiments, blends biology, medicine, and electronics to create devices that can be closely connected to biological systems. This review focuses on bioelectronic large-area field-effect transistor (FET) sensing devices, emphasizing their sensitivity, specificity, and reliability. The role of analytical chemistry in optimizing performance-level control is pivotal, and the review discusses key performance metrics, including limit of identification (LOI), reliability and selectivity. The assessment of the LOI level is addressed using examples of FET-based bioelectronic sensors capable of detecting concentrations at least in the picomolar range. Examples of sensors capable of detecting concentrations in the tens of zeptomolar range are also provided, demonstrating that a single molecule in 0.1 mL can be reliably detected. Working at the LOI also minimizes random errors, which can be as low as 1%. The review also explores the use of molecularly imprinted polymers for highly selective FET bioelectronic detections, noting their sustainability and robustness in comparison to natural antibodies.
Modeling the Dynamics of Cylindrical Lithium-ion Battery Aging Due to Evolving Solid Electrolyte Interphase Layer
Authors: Zhao Jin , Abu Qahouq Jaber A.
Published: February 2025

The solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer plays a critical role in the aging and degradation of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), directly influencing their performance and longevity. This paper presents a physics-based model that quantitatively characterizes SEI layer growth in cylindrical LIBs by incorporating ionic current density as a governing parameter. The presented approach captures localized SEI dynamics by coupled state-space equations (SSEs) within an convex optimization framework. The model accounts for both uniform and nonlinear SEI growth phases, predicting capacity fade and impedance evolution over cycling aging. Validation against experimental charge-discharge profiles, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) characterization, and equivalent circuit modeling demonstrates the model’s precision in tracking SEI-related degradation. The proposed framework offers a robust, interpretable, and computationally efficient tool for battery diagnostics and lifetime prediction.
Synergistic Effects of Olaparib and Palbociclib in Resistant epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Wang Shuo , Gao Yan
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the mechanisms of poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitor (PARPi) resistance in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). It also explores strategies to overcome this resistance by combining PARPi with cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i). EOC cell lines A2780 and SKOV-3 were treated with PARPi to develop stable drug-resistant cell lines, A2780-ola-r and SKOV-3-ola-r. Low-dose treatments with Olaparib, Palbociclib, and their combination significantly reduced tumor proliferation in these resistant cells. Bioinformatics analysis identified potential therapeutic targets, KNSTRN and TRPC4AP. The combination treatment induced G1 phase cell cycle arrest at low drug concentrations. Immunofluorescence studies demonstrated reduced nuclear RAD51 and increased p-γH2AX levels following combination or Palbociclib treatment, compared to DMSO. Western blot analysis revealed elevated expression of homologous recombination repair (HRR) pathway-related proteins in the resistant cell lines. Post-treatment analysis indicated a negative correlation between KNSTRN levels and the efficacy of CDK4/6i or combination therapy, whereas TRPC4AP levels positively correlated with treatment response. These findings offer critical insights into the mechanisms of PARPi resistance in EOC and suggest that combining PARPi with CDK4/6i is a promising therapeutic strategy to overcome this resistance and improve outcomes for patients with EOC.
Aeroallergen Sensitization Patterns and Related Factors in Children With Allergic Rhinitis in Guangzhou
Authors: Zeng Qingxiang , Yang Chao , Li Jinyuan , Qiu Xiangqian , Liu Wenlong
Published: February 2025

Background: Certain patterns of children’s serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) sensitivity to aeroallergens may offer useful clinical insight into forecasting the course and prognosis of allergic rhinitis (AR). The study aimed to investigate the changes in aeroallergen sensitization patterns in children with AR during the last decade and compare the sensitization pre‐ and post‐coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic in Children who visited our center.

Methods: This is a retrospective study, examining the serum IgE of nine aeroallergens from 21,362 children (1–12 years old) from AR who visited Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center from June 2013 to June 2023.

Result: The dust mites were the most prevalent aeroallergen in Guangzhou, with positive sensitization rates of 74.30% for Dermatophagoides farinae (D. farinae), 73.30% for Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (D. pteronyssinus), and common ragweed (1.6%) was the lowest. After the COVID‐19 pandemic, the sensitization rates to D. farinae were consistent and D. pteronyssinus was slightly decreased while German cockroach, cat, and dog dander were increased. Most of the aeroallergens other than common ragweed were increased in school‐age children than preschool stage. Boys have a higher positive rate than girls for D. farinae and D. pteronyssinus.

Conclusions: With the unraveling of allergens’ sensitization rates in various conditions, avoidance from D. farinae and D. pteronyssinus should still be the most important objectives to maintain in reducing AR episodes.
Patterns of associations with epidemiologic factors by high grade serous ovarian cancer gene expression subtypes
Authors: Collin Lindsay J. , Cushing-Haugen Kara L. , Terry Kathryn L. , Goode Ellen L. , Wu Anna H. , Harris Holly R. , Sasamoto Naoko , Cramer Daniel W. , Modugno Francesmary , Elishaev Esther , Fu Zhuxuan , Moysich Kirsten B. , Fasching Peter A. , Pearce Celeste Leigh. , Menon Usha , Gentry-Maharaj Aleksandra , Gayther Simon A. , Wentzensen Nicolas , Goodman Marc T. , George Joshy , Talhouk Aline , Anglesio Michael S. , Ramus Susan J. , Bowtell David DL. , Tworoger Shelley S. , Schildkraut Joellen M. , Webb Penelope M. , Doherty Jennifer A.
Published: February 2025

Background: Ovarian high-grade serous carcinomas (HGSC) comprise four distinct molecular subtypes based on mRNA expression patterns, with differential survival. Understanding risk factor associations is important to elucidate the etiology of HGSC. We investigated associations between different epidemiologic risk factors and HGSC molecular subtypes. Methods: We pooled data from 11 case-control studies with epidemiologic and tumor gene expression data from custom NanoString CodeSets developed through a collaboration within the Ovarian Tumor Tissue Analysis Consortium. The PrOTYPE validated NanoString-based 55 gene classifier was used to assign HGSC gene expression subtypes. We examined associations between epidemiologic factors and HGSC subtypes in 2,070 cases and 16,633 controls using multivariable-adjusted polytomous regression models. Results: Among the 2,070 HGSC cases, 556 (27%) were classified as C1.MES, 340 (16%) as C5.PRO, 538 (26%) as C2.IMM, and 636 (31%) as C4.DIF. Key factors, including oral contraceptive use, parity, breastfeeding, and family history of ovarian cancer, were similarly associated with all subtypes. Heterogeneity was observed for several factors. Former smoking (OR=1.25, 95%CI: 1.03, 1.51) and genital powder use (OR=1.42, 95%CI: 1.08, 1.86) were uniquely associated with C2.IMM. History of endometriosis was associated with C5.PRO (OR=1.46, 95%CI: 0.98, 2.16) and C4.DIF (OR=1.27, 95%CI: 0.94, 1.71) only. Family history of breast cancer (OR=1.44, 95%CI: 1.16, 1.78) and current smoking (OR=1.40, 95%CI: 1.11, 1.76) were associated with C4.DIF only. Conclusions: This study observed heterogeneous associations of epidemiologic and modifiable factors with HGSC molecular subtypes. Impact: The different patterns of associations may provide key information about the etiology of the four subtypes.
Table 1 from Analysis of Urban Indian Organizations’ Promotion of Cancer Services
Authors: Carson William O. , Little Alyssa , Monetathchi Angela , Erdrich Jennifer , Cordova-Marks Felina M.
Published: February 2025

Findings of the 34 UIOs reviewed for wellness programs, cancer screening services, cancer support services, and information/technology support
Supplementary Data from Analysis of Urban Indian Organizations’ Promotion of Cancer Services
Authors: Carson William O. , Little Alyssa , Monetathchi Angela , Erdrich Jennifer , Cordova-Marks Felina M.
Published: February 2025

List of UIOs analyzed for this review
Recalcitrant macular edema after pseudophakic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair: risk factors and response to intravitreal dexamethasone implant
Authors: Pignatelli Francesco , Niro Alfredo , Viggiano Pasquale , Boscia Giacomo , Besozzi Gianluca , Iaculli Cristiana , Addabbo Giuseppe , Boscia Francesco , Giancipoli Ermete
Published: February 2025

Introduction: To evaluate risk factors for recalcitrance to topical therapy of post-surgical macular edema (PSME) after rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair and its response to intravitreal dexamethasone implant (DEX-I).
Methods: This two-center retrospective study reviewed the charts of pseudophakic patients who had undergone vitrectomy for RRD and experienced PSME within 6 months after surgery. A regression model analyzed the relationship between the recalcitrance of PSME to topical therapy and independent variables, including clinical data, surgical steps, and OCT parameters recorded at 1 month after surgery. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT) of eyes with responsive and recalcitrant PSME to topical therapy, the latest treated with DEX-I, were compared over follow-up.
Results: Of the 361 eyes screened, 42 (11.7%) experienced PSME. Among those, all the eyes with recalcitrant PSME (21/42) received at least one DEX-I (1.38±0.49 implant). The mean follow-up was 11.9±0.3 months. Disrupted retinal outer layers (p = 0.02) and hyperreflective foci (HRF) (p = 0.01) were linked to recalcitrant PSME. An increased risk for recalcitrance was observed in the presence of HRF (OR 7.69; IC: 1.31- 44.9; p = 0.02). Over follow-up, BCVA and CMT were significantly (p < 0.01) worse in implanted eyes that experienced the more significant fluctuation of CMT (189.2±104.7 µm (range: 58-409 µm); p < 0.01) with a reimplant rate of 42.8%. No one of the implanted eyes experienced ocular hypertension requiring intervention or other complications.
Conclusion: HRF were found to be a risk factor for recalcitrance to topical therapy of PSME. Limited response to DEX-I was observed in such cases.
Efficacy and Safety of IL-17 and JAK Inhibitors in Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhao Xiaojuan , Li Menghao , Zhang Xinhui , Tian Yunfei , Li Dan , Wang Yongjing , Zhao Yonghong , Li Qianying , Qi Yexuan , Liu Xiuju
Published: February 2025

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the clinical efficacy and safety of interleukin-17 inhibitors and Janus kinase inhibitors in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis based on a network meta-analysis.
Methods: According to the search strategy, systematic retrievals were conducted in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Register of Clinical Trials, Scopus, and website ClinicalTrials.gov, from the establishment to December 8, 2023. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of interleukin-17 inhibitors and Janus kinase inhibitors for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The included studies were evaluated for quality using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool, and data were statistically analyzed using Software Stata 16.0, to compare the effectiveness and safety differences in all interventions.
Results: A total of 18 RCTs involving 3968 subjects were included in this study. The interventions were ranked from best to worst in terms of ASAS20: netakimab 120 mg > filgotinib 200 mg > tofacitinib 5 mg> brodalumab 210 mg >upadacitinib 15 mg >bimekizumab 160 mg > secukinumab 300 mg> ixekizumab 80 mg Q4W > secukinumab 150 mg > secukinumab 150 mg no LD> placebo, netakimab 120 mg outperformed all other interventions and the difference was statistically significant. The interventions were ranked from best to worst in terms of ASAS40: netakimab 120 mg > tofacitinib 5 mg > secukinumab 150 mg > secukinumab 300 mg > upadacitinib 15 mg > bimekizumab 160 mg> ixekizumab 80 mg Q4W > filgotinib 200 mg > brodalumab 210 mg > secukinumab 150 mg no LD > placebo, netakimab 120 mg outperformed all other interventions and was statistically significant (except the intervention of filgotinib 200 mg). In terms of AEs and SAEs, there was no statistical significance among all interventions.
Conclusions: The results of the network meta-analysis showed that netakimab 120mg ranked relatively high in outcome of ASAS20 and ASAS40. All treatments with IL-17 and JAK inhibitors were generally safe and well tolerated. However, the two included netakimab clinical studies may have limitations. Therefore, the therapeutic agents should be carefully selected in clinical treatment. Moreover, the efficacy and safety of netakimab remain to be further analyzed in studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up times.
Serum levels of BAFF and APRIL in children with steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Ling Chen , Chen Zhi , Hua Lin , Zhang Hejia , Wu Dan , Xi Yue , Lei Lei , Quan Shuting , Li Xiaoxue , Liu Xiaorong
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The therapeutic efficacy of B cell-depleting anti-CD20 treatments is well established for children with steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS), thus suggesting that B cells may play an important role in the occurrence of this disease. However, the role of B-cell survival factors and cytokines in SSNS has yet to be fully elucidated. Methods: We used commercially available ELISA kits to determine the serum levels of B-cell activating factor (BAFF) and a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) in 84 children with SSNS and 25 healthy controls. Then, we performed correlation analysis between these two serum factors and clinical parameters in children with SSNS. Results: The serum level of BAFF in the relapse group was 1295.2 ± 584.2pg/ml, significantly higher than other groups (p<0.001). The serum level of APRIL in the relapse group was 2830.5 ± 945.8 pg/ml, significantly higher than the other groups (p<0.001). The proportion (%) of memory B cells was positively correlated with the levels of BAFF and APRIL in children with SSNS (Pearson’s correlation coefficient: r=0.351, P=0.001; Pearson’s r=0.234, P=0.032). The proportion (%) of transitional B cells was negatively correlated with the levels of BAFF (Pearson’s r=-0.237, P=0.030) while the serum levels of IgG were negatively correlated with those of APRIL (Pearson’s r=-0.274, P=0.012). Conclusions: Our data indicate that BAFF appears to play a role in the recurrence of SSNS while APRIL appears to play a role in the pathogenesis of this condition, thus indicating that these molecules represent potential therapeutic targets for SSNS.
First record of the sea slug Lobiger serradifalci (Calcara, 1840) (Gastropoda: Sacoglossa: Oxynoidae) from the Indian coast
Authors: Dodiya Dimpal , Poriya Paresh
Published: February 2025

The present study confirms the presence of a Sacoglossan (Mollusca) species, Lobiger serradifalci (Calcara, 1840), from India. The distribution of this species has not yet been documented in India. It has been reported from Turkey, Italy, France, Greece, Israel, and now, for the first time, from the western coast of India. L. serradifalci was discovered under green seaweeds in the lower intertidal zone. The species was found to remain hidden within various types of green seaweeds in the region. The study provides comprehensive details on its morphology, habitat, and taxonomy.
Invasive record of Brazilian Petunia Ruellia elegans Poir. (Acanthaceae) from northeastern India
Authors: Mamita Kalita
Published: February 2025

The present study reports the invasive occurrence of Ruellia elegans Poir. from northeastern India. The beautiful red flowered species flourishing in Digboi, Assam is marked as its new distribution extension. The occurrence has been documented as a new distribution record for the flora of Assam as well as northeastern India. A detailed morphological depiction, photographic images, characterization and taxonomic notes have been provided to aid in its identification and recognition.
Diet and nutrient balance of wild Asian Elephants Elephas maximus in Nepal
Authors: Koirala Raj Kumar , Coogan Sean C.P.
Published: February 2025

We estimated the nutritional content of major wild (n = 22) and agricultural crop plants (n = 3) consumed by Asian Elephants Elephas maximus in Nepal during the wet and dry seasons, respectively. We then used nutritional geometry to explore the macronutrient balance of these plant species, as well as the overall diet of elephants in both the dry and wet seasons. Furthermore, we compared the diet of the Nepal elephants with the previously published diet of Indian population of elephants. We found that despite intraspecific and seasonal variation, the overall diet of elephants was relatively stable in protein (P) intake relative to non-protein macronutrients (fat + carbohydrate; non-protein (NP)), and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) between the wet (16% crude protein (CP): 26.7 % NP: 57.3% NDF; and, 10.4% CP: 13.7% NP: 75.7% NDF) in dry season, which suggests protein intake prioritization in support of previous work on captive elephants. Furthermore, the diet of Indian population of elephants (wet season: 16.0%P: 22.5%NP: 61.4%NDF and dry season: 11.1%P: 18.0 %NP: 70.7 %NDF) showed a similar pattern to the Nepal elephants, suggesting active regulation of macronutrient and NDF intake across populations despite differences in food consumed as part of their diets. Importantly, NDF intake in addition to non-protein macronutrients is likely necessary for elephants to stabilize their protein intake balance; thus, it is important to consider a multidimensional nutritional perspective in elephant conservation planning. The study has concluded that in a well-managed seasonal habitat, elephants can regulate their preferred macronutrient and NDF intake from available natural food plants without resorting to agricultural crop depredation.
Noteworthy comments on birds for mega-diverse Myanmar
Authors: Renner Swen C. , Moses Saw , Win Lay , Aung Thein , Kyaw Myint , Saw Myat Ohnmar  , Thiri Dae We Aung  , Myint Kay Thwe , Oo Sai Sein Lin , Bates Paul J.J. , Marcela Suarez-Rubio
Published: February 2025

Myanmar, recognized for its rich biodiversity in South, Southeast, and East Asia, continues to unveil new avian taxa and record significant species range extensions. This study presents and analyzes bird observations from 2010 to 2023, emphasizing less accessible regions like the Hkakabo Razi Landscape, Shan States, Tanintharyi, and the Ayeyarwady delta. Utilizing audio-visual records, we document 13 bird species, including range extensions and novel sightings. Our findings highlight Myanmar’s critical role in avian biodiversity, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts. This research contributes to narrowing the knowledge gap on bird species distributions within Myanmar, revealing a thriving community of bird enthusiasts and the potential for future discoveries.
Ultra-structure of antenna, eye, mouthparts and sensilla of Cheilomenes sexmaculata Fabricius, 1781 (Coccinellidae: Coleoptera)
Authors: Ghagargunde Prakash , Paingankar Mandar S.
Published: February 2025

Cheilomenes sexmaculata Fabricius, 1781 is a well-known ladybird beetle that feeds primarily on aphids, mealy bugs, phytophagous mites, scale insects, and other small insects and is an important bio-control agent of aphids. Evolution in the structure of mouthparts is known to be associated with the composition of food material and feeding behaviour. The sensilla present on mouthparts plays a pivotal role in feeding mechanisms. Feeding mechanism of ladybird beetles will be better understood if the fine structure of mouthparts, modifications in the structures, and presence of different sensilla on the mouthparts of C. sexmaculata are understood. Using scanning electron microscopy, the functional morphology of mouthparts of C. sexmaculata was studied and compared with the fine structures with those of other Lady Beetles. The labrum, mandibles, maxillae, labium, and hypopharynx make up the mouthpart of C. sexmaculata. This study includes a thorough description of each mouthpart and the different kinds of sensilla. In the current study, three types of sensilla chaetica, four types of sensilla basiconica, two types of sensilla styloconica, one type of sensilla placodea, one type of sensilla coeloconica, one type of sensilla campaniformia, and one type of cuticular pore using characters like the length, morphology, and distribution of the sensilla were studied. The structure of the mouthparts and the purposes of the sensilla on them is discussed with reference to other coleopterans. The results obtained in the current study will provide better insights into the functional morphology of lady beetles.
Role of Maternal Vitamin D
3
Levels in Shaping Adolescent Vascular Health: Evidence From a Spanish Population‐Based Birth Cohort
Authors: Sangüesa Júlia , Márquez Sandra , Montazeri Parisa , Fochs Silvia , Pey Nuria , Anguita‐Ruiz Augusto , Warembourg Charline , Rouxel Elke , Nawrot Tim , De Boever Patrick , Elen Bart , Clemente Diana B. P. , Casas Maribel , Vrijheid Martine
Published: February 2025

Background

Low gestational vitamin D levels may increase offspring risk of cardiovascular disease from an early age. Studies investigating the impact on offspring macrovascular function have been inconsistent. Few included pulse wave velocity as an arterial stiffness indicator, and none included measures of microvascularization as an early marker of cardiovascular health. This study explored the association between gestational vitamin D levels and macro‐ and microvascular health across early adolescence.

Methods and Results

We analyzed data from 430 mother–child pairs from a Spanish birth cohort. 25‐hydroxyvitamin D
3
(vitamin D
3
) levels were measured in serum at 13 weeks of pregnancy. At 11 and 15 years we assessed macrovascular parameters, including systolic and diastolic blood pressure (mm Hg) and pulse wave velocity (m/s), and microvascular parameters (central retinal artery/vein equivalent (μm)). We used continuous (in ng/mL) and categorical (deficient <20 ng/mL versus adequate >20 ng/mL) deseasonalized 25(OH)D
3
levels as exposure. Mixed effect and linear regression models were conducted. During their pregnancies, nearly 23% of the mothers had deficient vitamin D
3
levels. We did not find statistically significant associations between pregnancy vitamin D
3
levels and macro‐ and microvascular function markers across adolescence. However, subjects exposed to deficient vitamin D
3
levels showed a nonstatistically significant decrease in pulse wave velocity (
β
=−0.09 [95% CI, −0.19 to 0.01]) compared with those exposed to adequate levels. There was no evidence of a sex interaction.

Conclusions

Our findings show little evidence to support associations between low vitamin D levels during pregnancy and macro‐ or microvascular health parameters through early adolescence.
Protein Drug Targets for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm and Proteomic Associations Between Modifiable Risk Factors and Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Qi Yao , Jiang Han , Lun Yu , Gang Qingwei , Shen Shikai , Zhang Han , Liu Mingyu , Wang Yixian , Zhang Jian
Published: February 2025

Background

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a severe aortic disease for which no pharmacological interventions have yet been developed. This investigation focused on identifying protein‐based therapeutic targets and assessing how proteins mediate the interplay between modifiable risk factors and AAA development.

Methods

Causal inferences between plasma proteins and AAA were drawn using 2‐sample Mendelian randomization, followed by comprehensive sensitivity testing, colocalization, and replication efforts. Further analyses included database interrogation, single‐cell RNA data analysis, enrichment analysis, protein–protein interaction networks, and immunohistochemistry to map the tissue‐specific expression of these proteins, their expression within AAA tissues, and their biological roles. Mediation Mendelian randomization was employed to evaluate the mediating effects of AAA‐related proteins on the associations between AAA and 3 risk factors: hypertension, smoking, and obesity.

Results

A total of 43 proteins were identified as having causal links to AAA. Colocalization analysis pinpointed 13 proteins with strong evidence of colocalization with AAA. Of these, the causal involvement of 10 proteins was substantiated by external validation data. Consistent evidence for PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9), IL6R (interleukin‐6R), ECM1 (extracellular matrix protein 1), and ANGPTL4 (angiopoietin‐related protein 4) was further validated through tissue immunohistochemistry and blood data. Moreover, Mendelian randomization analysis identified 10 proteins as mediators of the influence of hypertension, smoking, and obesity on AAA development.

Conclusions

This analysis identifies 4 proteins (PCSK9, IL6R, ECM1, and ANGPTL4) as high‐priority therapeutic targets for AAA and emphasizes the intermediary role of plasma proteins in linking hypertension, smoking, obesity, and AAA. Further investigations are needed to clarify the specific roles of these proteins in AAA pathology.
Predictive Effect of Atypical Right Bundle‐Branch Block on In‐Hospital Sudden Cardiac Death and Cardiac Rupture and Long‐Term Prognosis in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction Who Underwent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Yang Tiangui , Chen Jie , Fu Xi , Xu Changlu , Liu Xiaoxia , Fu Peng , Niu Tiesheng
Published: February 2025

Background

A study was conducted to explore the predictive effect of atypical right bundle‐branch blocks (ARBBB) on in‐hospital sudden cardiac death (SCD), cardiac rupture (CR), and long‐term prognosis in patients with acute myocardial infarction undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention with a drug‐eluting stent.

Methods and Results

A total of 13 886 patients with first‐episode acute myocardial infarction who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention with a drug‐eluting stent at 3 centers from January 2017 to January 2022 were included in this retrospective study. Patients were categorized into 4 groups: ARBBB (n=348), typical right BBB (n=374), left BBB (n=366), and non‐BBB (n=12 798). The primary end points were in‐hospital SCD and CR, the secondary end points were 2‐year major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. During the in‐hospital observation period, 334 patients (2.4%) experienced SCD, with 98 (0.7%) attributed to CR. The incidences of in‐hospital SCD and CR in the group with ARBBB were significantly higher than those in the other 3 groups (ARBBB versus left BBB versus typical right BBB versus non‐BBB: SCD, 10.6% versus 5.7% versus 4.3% versus 2.0%,
P
=0.001; CR, 5.7% versus 2.7% versus 1.3% versus 0.5%,
P
<0.001). ARBBB was a statistically significant predictor of in‐hospital SCD (hazard ratio [HR], 2.45 [95% CI, 1.65–4.78],
P<
0.001) and CR (HR, 3.32 [95% CI, 1.77–7.74],
P<
0.001). ARBBB could also predicted the 2‐year major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (HR, 2.99 [95% CI, 1.65–5.53],
P<
0.001).

Conclusions

ARBBB is a predictor of in‐hospital SCD, CR, and 2‐year major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events in patients with first‐episode acute myocardial infarction undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention with a drug‐eluting stent.
Effects of Glucagon‐Like Peptide‐1 Receptor Agonists, Sodium‐Glucose Cotransporter‐2 Inhibitors, and Their Combination on Neurohumoral and Mitochondrial Activation in Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Ikonomidis Ignatios , Pavlidis George , Pliouta Loukia , Katogiannis Konstantinos , Maratou Eirini , Thymis John , Michalopoulou Eleni , Prentza Vasiliki , Katsanaki Eleni , Vlachomitros Dimitrios , Kountouri Aikaterini , Korakas Emmanouil , Andreadou Ioanna , Kouretas Dimitrios , Parissis John , Lambadiari Vaia
Published: February 2025

Background

We investigated the effects of the combined treatment with glucagon like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RA) and sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT‐2i) on NT‐proBNP (N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide), GDF‐15 (growth differentiation factor 15), and MOTS‐c (mitochondrial‐derived peptide‐c) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and high or very high cardiovascular risk.

Methods

We studied 163 consecutive patients with type 2 diabetes who were treated with insulin (n=40), liraglutide (n=41), empagliflozin (n=42), or their combination (GLP‐1RA+SGLT‐2i) (n=40) and were matched using propensity score analysis. We measured the following at baseline and 4 and 12 months of treatment: (1) NT‐proBNP, GDF‐15, and MOTS‐c; (2) 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid), and (3) left ventricular global longitudinal strain, left atrial strain during atrial reservoir phase, and global work index using speckle‐tracking imaging.

Results

At 12 months, GLP‐1RA, SGLT‐2i, and their combination showed a greater reduction of NT‐proBNP (−43.1% versus −54.2% versus −56.9% versus −14.7%) and GDF‐15 than insulin. Only treatment with SGLT‐2i and GLP‐1RA+SGLT‐2i improved MOTS‐c. GLP‐1RA, SGLT‐2i, or GLP‐1RA+SGLT‐2i provided an increase of global longitudinal strain, left atrial strain, and global work index compared with insulin. In all patients, the reduction of NT‐proBNP was associated with the improvement of global longitudinal strain, left atrial strain during atrial reservoir phase, and global work index; the decrease of GDF‐15 with the increase of ABTS and MOTS‐c; and the increase of MOTs‐c with improved global longitudinal strain and constructive myocardial work at 12 months (
P
<0.05).

Conclusions

Twelve‐month treatment with combination of GLP‐1RA+SGLT‐2i was associated with a greater reduction of neurohumoral markers and increase of antioxidant ability than each treatment alone and insulin. SGLT‐2i appear more effective in the improvement of neurohumoral and mitochondrial activation.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03878706.
Living in the dark side? Plastic activity in the Bothrops jararaca group (Serpentes, Viperidae)
Authors: Banci Karina R.S. , Eterovic André , Rosa Luana G.S. , Marques Otavio A.V.
Published: February 2025

The activity of snakes is affected by several ecological factors, being light-dark cycle the most important of them. Bothrops alcatraz and B. jararaca are nocturnal in situ. However, the critically endangered Golden Lancehead, B. insularis, was described as diurnal in Queimada Grande Island, where adults rely mainly on migratory, diurnal birds preyed when they are active. Herein, we present comparative data on the activity of these representatives of the Bothrops jararaca group, testing the following hypotheses: (1) B. alcatraz and B. jararaca are nocturnal even in captivity, and (2) B. insularis is also nocturnal in the absence of birds. Data on the activity of these pitvipers in captivity were obtained using closed circuit television. Daily activity of captive B. insularis was compared to that from the island, where its seasonal pattern was also investigated. Our results show that all three species are intrinsically nocturnal but B. insularis hunts during the day in the wild, being more active in the dry season. We also show that B. jararaca extends its activity through daytime in colder periods. Caudal luring was displayed by all species in captivity, mostly at night in B. alcatraz and B. jararaca, and during the day in B. insularis, even though such differences were not always significant. In summary, we demonstrate that activity may be plastic and influenced by other biotic and abiotic variables apart from the light-dark cycle.
The complete mitochondrial genome of Glyphocrangon regalis (Caridea, Glyphocrangonidae) and the phylogenetic relationships of Caridea
Authors: Chen Jian , Sun Yuman , Li Jiji , Xu Kaida , Ye Yingying
Published: February 2025

In studying the mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) composition and gene sequences of deep-sea organisms, it is of great importance to understand and explore the molecular mechanisms underlying their adaptation to the deep-sea environment. Glyphocrangon regalis belongs to Caridea, Crangonoidea, and is a typical deep-sea shrimp. In this study, the complete mitogenome of G. regalis was obtained using next-generation sequencing technology. The mitochondrial genes were annotated, and their sequence structures were analysed. The complete mitogenome sequence of G. regalis was 15 918 bp in length, with a base composition of A (36.85%), T (36.68%), C (15.53%) and G (9.94%), exhibiting a significant AT bias with an A + T content of 75.53%. G. regalis encoded a total of 37 genes, including 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 tRNAs and 2 rRNAs; among them, 14 genes were located on the negative strand, and 23 genes were located on the positive strand, similar to other caridean shrimp mitogenomes. Additionally, a phylogenetic tree was constructed based on the 13 PCGs of the mitogenomes of 95 species from 12 families within Caridea, supporting the monophyly of various families within Caridea and revealing that G. regalis and species of Pandalidae were the most closely related. This study provides insights into the complete mitogenome of G. regalis, elucidating its genomic characteristics and structural functions. It clarifies the evolutionary status of G. regalis and explores the evolutionary patterns of various families within Caridea through phylogenetic tree construction, thereby providing more references for the study of Caridea systematics.
Parametataeniacanthus pseudorhombi gen. et sp. nov. (Copepoda, Cyclopoida, Taeniacanthidae), recovered from Japanese fishes (Actinopterygii)
Authors: Izawa Kunihiko
Published: February 2025

Parametataeniacanthus pseudorhombi gen. et sp. nov. is described based on specimens of the female recovered from the bucco-branchial cavity of the cinnamon flounder, Pseudorhombus cinnamoneus (Temminck & Schlegel, 1846) (Pleuronectiformes, Paralichthyidae) in Japan.
Cosmology and Meontology: Continental Philosophy and Saint Paul
Authors: van der Heiden Gert-Jan
Published: February 2025

The philosophical turn to the letters of Saint Paul in the 1990s can also be read as a critical assessment of the concept of κόσμος, especially in the philosophical sense of order. In this article, it is shown that especially the so-called “meontological passages” to which philosophers such as Heidegger, Agamben, Badiou and Taubes equally turn, can be read in terms of such a critical assessment. The article opens with exploring the stakes of present-day philosophical interpretations of Saint Paul, namely to move beyond onto-theology towards meontology. Subsequently, it is argued why the meontological emphasis of these interpretations are neither crypto-Marcionite nor nihilistic. Finally, an in-depth reading of two meontological passages is offered showing how an interpretation organized around the concepts of κατάργησις and χρῆσις indeed lives up to the stakes of the present-day philosophical interest in Paul’s letters.
Worldlessness of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Ziarek Płonowska
Published: February 2025

The concept of an ontology of digital worldlessness developed in this essay examines how the unequal distribution of the ecological, political, and economic harms of AI undermines plural political belonging in a common world. It argues that digital worldlessness stems from a constellation of several sociopolitical practices, including: a) the formalization of information inherent in algorithmic procedures abstracted from the material world, history, and common sense; b) the insertion of digital surveillance networks into a common world to facilitate continuous extraction of data; c) the opacity of algorithmic procedures to the general public affected by their outcomes; and d) the algorithmic sorting of people and nonhuman phenomena in relation to prediction targets set by corporations and state institutions. Drawing on Hannah Arendt’s political theory and on critical race and feminist theories of AI, in particular, Ruha Benjamin and Wendy Chun, the essay foregrounds the relationship between world, technology and power in order to analyze the assaults on human plurality by algorithmic practices. These practices not only automate gender, racist and economic discrimination, but also undermine collective action contesting these harms.

This approach to digital ontology provides an alternative to the dominant but narrow technical meaning of computational ontology in analytical philosophies and computer sciences where this term refers to formulating compatible taxonomies among different data sets for the purposes of information classification.
Resurgence of Diplomatic Asylum in International Law: Human Rights the Missing Piece of Puzzle
Authors: Alexander Atul
Published: February 2025

This study evinces that current legal practice does not favour the grant of diplomatic asylum. However, the right to diplomatic asylum is not sufficiently addressed from an individual or human rights lens. Instead, it is conceived as an object of the States exercising its right. In recent years, the courts have widened the scope of human rights to endorse its extraterritorial application, thereby influencing the right to diplomatic asylum. However, this contradicts the provisions of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and general international law since granting diplomatic asylum is not a diplomatic function and impinges on state sovereignty. Previous literature on the topic bespeaks the sliding scale and conciliatory approaches in accommodating human rights. The author argues that human rights should be regarded as a valid ground for granting diplomatic asylum. It is concluded that this proposition can challenge the statist approach to diplomatic asylum.
Spanish-American Studies: 1900 to Present Day
Authors: Carpenter Victoria
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2023 in the area of Spanish-American Studies.
Italian Studies: Settecento
Authors: Merida Raphael
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2023 in the area of Italian Studies.
Romanian Studies: Language and Linguistics
Authors: Schulte Kim
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2023 in the area of Romanian language and linguistics. It covers work published since the last Romanian Language and Linguistics survey in YWMLS 81, focusing primarily on publications that have appeared in the last three years (2021–2023).
Welsh Studies: Language, Linguistics, and Literature, Modern Period
Authors: Roberts Sara Elin
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2023 in the area of Welsh Studies.
Scottish Gaelic Studies: Language and Linguistics, and Literature
Authors: Dymock Emma , Mathis Kate L.
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2023 in the area of Scottish Gaelic Studies. It includes items whose availability was delayed from their official date of publication in 2022.
Manx Studies: Language, Linguistics, and Literature
Authors: Lewin Christopher
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2022 and 2023 in the area of Manx Studies.
Dutch Studies: Literature
Authors: Sattler Alexandra
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2023 in the area of Dutch Studies.
Yiddish Studies: Language, Linguistics, and Literature
Authors: Stern Heidi
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2023 in the area of Yiddish Studies.
Czech and Slovak Studies: Language, Linguistics, and Literature
Authors: Beilinson Orel
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2023 in the area of Czech and Slovak Studies.
Russian Studies: Literature, 1700–1800
Authors: Panova Olga B. , Mitchell Peter J.
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2023 in the area of Russian Studies.
Russian Studies: Literature, 1800–1848
Authors: Panova Olga B. , Mitchell Peter J.
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2022 and 2023 in the area of Russian Studies.
Francophone and French Studies: Literature, 2000 to the Present Day
Authors: Goldman Josephine
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2023 in the area of Francophone and French Studies.
Francophone and French Studies: French-Canadian Literature
Authors: Lévesque-Jalbert Émile
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2022 and 2023 in the area of Francophone and French Studies.
Francophone and French Studies: Film Studies
Authors: Chaplin Felicity
Published: February 2025

This is a critical bibliographical survey of academic studies published in 2023 in the area of Francophone and French Studies.
Evaluation of innovative insect-based products by Portuguese consumers using a repeated exposure approach under a controlled setting
Authors: Barbosa B. , Rocha C. , Ribeiro J.C. , Lima R.C. , Costa A.I.A. , Monteiro M.J.P. , Maya C. , Roos N. , Cunha L.M.
Published: February 2025

In an era of considerable environmental pressures, edible insects have demonstrated their ability to integrate innovative and sustainable food production methods. Nonetheless, there are clear obstacles to their acceptance, particularly in Western countries. With a view to a longitudinal analysis of the consumption moment, the study’s main goal was to assess how the repeated exposure approach can impact consumer’s liking and sensory perception of different insect-based products. At the same time, these products were compared with commercially available plant-based analogue products, as these types of products can be targeted to the same market. For each group of products, the impact of repeated exposure on participants exposed to the products in a household context was compared with a group of participants who had no intervention at home. This comparative assessment was carried out in a sensory laboratory environment. Five different insect and plant-based products were assessed on a 9-point hedonic scale with open comments to complement the analysis by two panels of 58 participants. Significant differences were found between products throughout the exposure, with most products decreasing the liking scores between exposures. However, no significant differences concerning exposure were identified between the intervention and non-intervention groups. Regarding the evaluation of the samples according to the different exposure groups, it was observed that there was no noticeable impact of exposure on the evaluation of the insect-based products evaluated by the intervention group and the plant-based products tasted by the non-intervention group. This study reinforces the impact of repeated exposure on the overall liking levels of the samples, with valuable findings on sensory perception that can be translated into insect-based product development.
Emigrant Literature, World Literature, National Literature
Authors: Frank Søren
Published: February 2025

This article examines Georg Brandes’ comparative method and notions of emigrant literature, world literature, and national literature, comparing them to Goethe’s and Milan Kundera’s ideas of world literature, and drawing on Emily Apter’s concept of untranslatability. It is argued that Brandes, like Apter, valorizes an untranslatable dimension of language in his paradoxical notion of world literature as the most national literature, whereas Goethe and Kundera consider translations to be unproblematic as a result of their belief in linguistic transparency. Where Goethe accentuated cultural similarities and universalism, Brandes was keen to stress cultural differences. His cosmopolitanism was firmly rooted in the local, national, and regional. The article further argues that Goethe’s concept of Weltliteratur was centered on a theory of circulation and infrastructure. In contrast, both Brandes and Kundera placed emphasis on intra-literary qualities, Brandes primarily linguistic qualities, Kundera more specifically existential and formal newness. Each of the three positions has its merits and supplement each other. Together, they provide us with an understanding of the significance of the field of world literature as both an aesthetic and sociological phenomenon.