bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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.
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

Abstract
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.
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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.