bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Novel Method for Nonparametric Statistical Inference for Niche Overlap in Multiple Species
Authors: Langthaler Patrick B. , Gladow Kai‐Philipp , Krüger Oliver , Beck Jonas 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTThe understanding of species interactions and ecosystem dynamics hinges upon the study of ecological niches. Quantifying the overlap of Hutchinsonian‐niches has garnered significant attention, with many recent publications addressing the issue. Prior work on estimating niche overlap often did not provide confidence intervals or assumed multivariate normality, seriously limiting applications in ecology, and biodiversity research. This paper extends a nonparametric approach, previously applied to the two‐species case, to multiple species. For estimation, a consistent plug‐in estimator based on rank sums is proposed and its asymptotic distribution is derived under weak conditions. The novel methodology is then applied to a study comparing the ecological niches of the Eurasian eagle owl, common buzzard, and red kite. These species share a habitat in Central Europe but exhibit distinct population trends. The analysis explores their breeding habitat preferences, considering the intricate competition dynamics and utilizing the nonparametric approach to niche overlap estimation. Our proposed method provides a valuable inferential tool for the quantitative evaluation of differences and overlap between niches.
Testing for Sufficient Follow‐Up in Censored Survival Data by Using Extremes
Authors: Xie Ping , Escobar‐Bach Mikael , Van Keilegom Ingrid 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTIn survival analysis, it often happens that some individuals, referred to as cured individuals, never experience the event of interest. When analyzing time‐to‐event data with a cure fraction, it is crucial to check the assumption of “sufficient follow‐up,” which means that the right extreme of the censoring time distribution is larger than that of the survival time distribution for the noncured individuals. However, the available methods to test this assumption are limited in the literature. In this article, we study the problem of testing whether follow‐up is sufficient for light‐tailed distributions and develop a simple novel test. The proposed test statistic compares an estimator of the noncure proportion under sufficient follow‐up to one without the assumption of sufficient follow‐up. A bootstrap procedure is employed to approximate the critical values of the test. We also carry out extensive simulations to evaluate the finite sample performance of the test and illustrate the practical use with applications to leukemia and breast cancer data sets.
Neurobiological Insights Into Cerebral Palsy: A Review of the Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Salomon Izere 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundCerebral palsy (CP) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired mobility and posture caused by brain injury or abnormal development. CP relates to a variety of neurological mechanisms and pathways that impact the type and severity of motor disability, as well as comorbidities. The heterogeneity in clinical phenotype, pathogenesis, and etiology poses significant challenges for effective therapeutic intervention.ObjectivesThe review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying CP and evaluate current and prospective therapeutic strategies, highlighting the necessity for targeted interventions to address the disorder's multifaceted nature.MethodsA thorough literature review was conducted, focusing on studies published in peer‐reviewed journals that explore the pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical interventions, and therapeutic strategies for CP.ResultsThe pathogenesis of CP involves a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and perinatal factors leading to brain injury. Inflammatory processes, oxidative stress, and excitotoxicity are critical in CP development. Current therapeutic approaches primarily focus on symptom management through physical and occupational therapy, as well as pharmacological interventions. Emerging therapies, including anti‐inflammatory agents, antioxidants, and neuroprotective and neurotrophic agents, show potential but require further validation. Notably, although steroids provide anti‐inflammatory benefits, their use in pediatric patients raises concerns regarding long‐term adverse effects such as osteoporosis.ConclusionDespite advances in understanding CP's neurobiological underpinnings, effective therapeutic targets remain elusive. A comprehensive approach addressing CP's heterogeneity is essential. Future research should emphasize in‐depth evaluations of the efficacy and safety of therapeutic agents, particularly in pediatric populations, to develop targeted and effective treatments for CP.
Comparison of Heart Rate Variability Psychological Responses and Performance in Virtual and Real Archery
Authors: Dal Nihal , Tok Serdar , Balıkçı İlker , Yılmaz Said Enes , Binboğa Erdal 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundThis study examines the psychophysiological differences between virtual reality (VR) and real archery. It explores whether VR archery induces heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), and breathing rates similar to those experienced in real archery. Additionally, the study assesses differences in perceived anxiety, difficulty, confidence, rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and shooting performance between the two modalities, providing insights into the efficacy of VR as a training tool for archery.MethodsTwenty‐two (women: 8) individuals aged 20–24 participated in the study. We first recorded individuals’ resting HR, HRV, and breathing rates during baseline. Afterward, participants shot 10 real and virtual arrows from 18 m, whereas their HR, HRV, and breathing rate were measured, each lasting 4 min. Performance in VR and real archery was determined separately as the sum of the shots. We performed paired sample t‐tests to compare individuals’ performance, psychological, and psychophysiological responses recorded during VR and real arrow shooting. Afterward, we compared percentage changes between VR and real archery.ResultsResults showed that HR and root mean square of successive differences (RMMSD) were significantly higher during real archery compared to virtual archery. In addition, VR archery led to a greater percentage change in RMSSD compared to real archery. Participants reported greater RPE and perceived difficulty after real archery. Performance was also higher during VR archery than real archery.ConclusionsConsequently, the results of the present study illustrated that VR, and real archery might lead to different autonomic response patterns in terms of vagal activity.
A Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Study of the Causal Association Between Ischemic Stroke, Coronary Heart Disease, and Hydrocephalus
Authors: Wang Wencai , Liu Menghao , Wang Zun , Ma Luyao , Zhao Yongqiang , Ye Wei , Li Xianfeng 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe association among coronary heart disease, ischemic stroke, and hydrocephalus remains ambiguous.ObjectivesThere is a need for a Mendelian randomization study to evaluate the underlying causality between coronary heart disease, ischemic stroke, and hydrocephalus.MethodsThe data source utilized genome‐wide association studies, employing a threshold of p < 5 × 10−8 to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms strongly linked to ischemic stroke and coronary heart disease as instrumental variables (IVs). Five methods—inverse variance weighted (IVW), Mendelian randomization (MR) Egger, Weighted Median, Weighted mode, and Simple mode—utilized the selected IVs to estimate the causality between ischemic stroke, coronary heart disease, and hydrocephalus.ResultsThe IVW demonstrated that ischemic stroke and coronary heart disease serve as risk factors for hydrocephalus (odds ratio [OR] = 1.650, 95% CI: 1.066–2.554, p = 0.025; OR = 1.307, 95% CI: 1.023–1.668, p = 0.032). Both the MR‐Egger intercept test and Cochran's Q test affirmed the relative reliability of the IVW analysis results. However, no evidence of a reverse causation was observed between hydrocephalus and coronary heart disease or ischemic stroke.ConclusionsCoronary heart disease and Ischemic stroke may increase the risk of hydrocephalus.
Sociocultural and masculinity influences on colorectal cancer screening participation among Hispanic/Latino men in Florida, New York, and Texas
Authors: Sedani Ami Elizabeth , Islam Jessica Yasmine , Griffith Derek M. , Rifelj Kelly Krupa , McCall Cordero , García‐Rodríguez Omar , Camacho‐Rivera Marlene , Rogers Charles Ray 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBackgroundThis cross‐sectional study explored how masculinity beliefs may influence colorectal cancer (CRC) screening participation among ethnic subgroups of screening‐age–eligible (45–75 years) Hispanic/Latino men.MethodsUsing a consumer panel, we recruited self‐identified Hispanic/Latino men fluent in English or Spanish, and residing in Florida, New York, or Texas. The Masculinity Barriers to Medical Care (MBMC) scale and its six subscales were used to assess masculinity beliefs. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the association between MBMC and CRC screening participation, adjusting for Hispanic/Latino subgroup, marital status, survey language, age group, and health insurance status. Results were then stratified by Hispanic/Latino subgroup.ResultsOf the participants (n=611), approximately 31% identified as Puerto Rican, 30% as other Hispanic/Latino, 26% as Mexican, and 14% as Cuban; 63% had ever been screened for CRC. We found no differences in the prevalence of screening participation by Hispanic/Latino subgroup. The majority of participants had completed both a stool‐based test and an exam‐based screening test (29.3%). After adjusting for confounding, MBMC reduced the odds of screening participation. Slight MBMC‐subscale differences were observed by Hispanic/Latino subgroup. For example, higher scores on the Restrictive Emotionality subscale were associated with a lower likelihood of screening participation among Puerto Rican men, but higher odds of screening for Cuban men.ConclusionsMasculinity barriers to CRC screening may exist. Tailored interventions to address masculinity barriers among specific Latino subgroups may improve CRC screening uptake in this population.
Trends and efficacy of omitting axillary lymph node dissection in early‐stage male breast cancer with limited nodal involvement: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Yang Hanzhao , Ruan Yuxia , Wang Jiabin , Qiao Jianghua , Liu Zhenzhen 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe effectiveness of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) versus axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in managing early‐stage male breast cancer (MBC) patients with T1‐2 tumors and limited lymph node metastasis, all receiving radiotherapy, remains uncertain. This study examines trends and survival outcomes for SLNB and ALND in the United States.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data from 2010 to 2020 for MBC patients with T1‐2 tumors and 1–2 positive lymph nodes undergoing radiotherapy. Patients were classified by nodes removed (SLNB ≤5, ALND ≥10), comparing overall survival (OS) and breast cancer‐specific survival (BCSS) between the groups before and after propensity score matching.ResultsOf 299 MBC patients analyzed, SLNB usage increased from 18.8% in 2010 to 61.0% in 2020. Multivariable logistic regression highlighted significant associations of SLNB use with diagnosis year, race, surgery type, positive lymph node count, and metastasis size. No significant differences in 5‐year OS (77.98% SLNB vs. 85.85% ALND, p = 0.337) or BCSS (91.54% SLNB vs. 94.97% ALND, p = 0.214) were observed. Propensity score matching (96 patients per group) confirmed similar 5‐year OS (83.9% for SLNB vs. 82.0% for ALND, p = 0.925) and BCSS (90.1% for SLNB vs. 96.9% for ALND, p = 0.167).ConclusionSLNB and ALND provide comparable survival outcomes in early‐stage MBC patients with limited lymph node metastasis undergoing radiotherapy. The increased utilization of SLNB supports its consideration to reduce surgical morbidity in selected MBC patients despite limited direct evidence.
Unlocking Apoptotic Pathways: Overcoming Tumor Resistance in CAR‐T‐Cell Therapy
Authors: Zhang Zhanna , Su Manqi , Jiang Panruo , Wang Xiaoxia , Tong Xiangmin , Wu Gongqiang 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundChimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T‐cell therapy has transformed cancer treatment, leading to remarkable clinical outcomes. However, resistance continues to be a major obstacle, significantly limiting its efficacy in numerous patients.ObjectivesThis review critically examines the challenges associated with CAR‐T‐cell therapy, with a particular focus on the role of apoptotic pathways in overcoming resistance.MethodsWe explore various strategies to sensitize tumor cells to CAR‐T‐cell‐mediated apoptosis, including the use of combination therapies with BH3 mimetics, Mcl‐1 inhibitors, IAP inhibitors, and HDAC inhibitors. These agents inhibit anti‐apoptotic proteins and activate intrinsic mitochondrial pathways, enhancing the susceptibility of tumor cells to apoptosis. Moreover, targeting the extrinsic pathway can increase the expression of death receptors on tumor cells, further promoting their apoptosis. The review also discusses the development of novel CAR constructs that enhance anti‐apoptotic protein expression, such as Bcl‐2, which may counteract CAR‐T cell exhaustion and improve antitumor efficacy. We assess the impact of the tumor microenvironment (TME) on CAR‐T cell function and propose dual‐targeting CAR‐T cells to simultaneously address both myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and tumor cells. Furthermore, we explore the potential of combining agents like PPAR inhibitors to activate the cGAS‐STING pathway, thereby improving CAR‐T cell infiltration into the tumor.ConclusionsThis review highlights that enhancing tumor cell sensitivity to apoptosis and increasing CAR‐T cell cytotoxicity through apoptotic pathways could significantly improve therapeutic outcomes. Targeting apoptotic proteins, particularly those involved in the intrinsic mitochondrial pathway, constitutes a novel approach to overcoming resistance. The insights presented herein lay a robust foundation for future research and clinical applications aimed at optimizing CAR‐T cell therapies.
Racial/ethnic disparities in curative‐intent treatment for early‐stage non‐small cell lung cancer patients among heterogeneous Black populations: US‐born Black, Afro‐Haitian, West Indian Black, and Hispanic Black
Authors: Jacobs Kamaria T. , Liu Qinran , Brown Clyde P. , Lopes Gilberto , Pinheiro Paulo S. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBackgroundHeterogeneous Black populations encounter significant obstacles in accessing cancer care, yet research on lung cancer treatment disparities remains limited. This study investigates whether the disparity in receiving curative‐intent treatment (curative‐intent surgery and/or stereotactic body radiation therapy [SBRT]) for early‐stage non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) between non‐Hispanic Whites (NHWs) and total Blacks extends to diverse Black populations, including US‐born, Afro‐Haitian, West Indian Black, and Hispanic Black individuals.MethodsThis cross‐sectional study included all Florida cancer registry early‐stage NSCLC cases 2005–2017, linked to individual‐level discharge data containing comorbidity and specific treatment details (surgery and/or SBRT). Multivariable logistic regression assessed the association between race/ethnicity and the receipt of curative‐intent treatment, while accounting for sociodemographic factors (poverty, age, insurance, and smoking status) and clinical variables.ResultsAmong 55,655 early‐stage NSCLC patients, 71.1% received curative‐intent treatment: 72.1% NHW and 59.7% Black (non‐Hispanic and Hispanic) individuals. Black patients had 35% lower odds (ORadj, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.59–0.70) of receiving curative‐intent treatment compared to NHW patients. ORs varied from 0.57 (95% CI, 0.59–0.70) for Hispanic Black to 0.76 (95% CI, 0.56–1.02) for West Indian Black. Remarkably, Black‐White disparities persisted despite the availability of curative treatment options (SBRT) for both high Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) observed among US‐born Blacks and surgery for low CCI patients among all other Black subgroups.ConclusionsPronounced disparities in accessing curative‐intent treatments for early‐stage NSCLC were evident across all Black subgroups, regardless of treatment availability and comorbidity profile. These findings underscore the need to address Black heterogeneity and prompt further research to rectify treatment disparities in early‐stage NSCLC.
Potential In Vitro Antimelanoma Effect of the Essential Oil from Croton grewioides Baill
Authors: de Andrade Camyla Caroliny Neves , de Oliveira Lopes Ana Luiza , Sousa Duarte Sâmia , Assunção Araújo de Azevedo Fátima de Lourdes , Araújo Loureiro Paulo Bruno , Wanderley Amorim Geraldo Moisés , de Abreu Junior Adegildo Rolim , Sobral da Silva Marcelo , Fechine Tavares Josean , Santos Golzio Sócrates dos , Ramos Gonçalves Juan Carlos , Vieira Sobral Marianna 
Published: October 2024

AbstractCancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth, invasive capacity, and metastatic potential. Despite the continual progress in cancer treatment, high toxicity and resistance to therapy remain recurring challenges. Croton grewioides Baill. is a plant from the brazilian semi‐arid region with significant pharmacological potential due to its reported antidiarrheal, antioxidant, and antitumor properties. This study evaluated the antitumor activity of the essential oil from C. grewioides leaves (CgEO) by in vitro assays. CgEO showed higher cytotoxicity in human melanoma cells (SK‐MEL‐28), with a 50 % inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 70.0 μg/mL after 72 h, but with low toxicity in healthy keratinocytes (HaCaT). Additionally, it was suggested that the antitumor effect of CgEO is associated with the induction of apoptosis, cell cycle alterations, and combined antioxidant action mechanisms. In conclusion, CgEO exhibits antitumor activity with lower toxicity in non‐tumor cells.
Conchocarpus J. C. Mikan (Rutaceae): Chemical Constituents and Biological Activities
Authors: Santos Anderson R. , de Paula Vanderlúcia F. , Barbosa Luiz C. A. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractRutaceae Juss. stands out as a botanical family recognized for its remarkable diversity in taxonomy, worldwide distribution, chemical composition, and biological activity exhibited by its compounds. Conchocarpus J. C. Mikan is one of the main genera of this family, comprising 50 species distributed throughout the Neotropical America. Brazil is the main center of diversity for this genus, hosting 66 % of the species as endemic. This is the first review concerning the genus Conchocarpus, emphasizing its chemical composition and biological activities. The selected papers for this review cover studies on 11 species, of which were identified 88 compounds. Among these, quinoline and acridone alkaloids predominate (57 %), followed by flavonoids, amides, coumarins and terpenoids. The biological activities of extracts and compounds indicate trypanocidal and leishmanicidal actions, as well as cytotoxic, fungicidal, molluscicidal, insecticidal, anticholinesterase and antioxidant activities.
Coagulation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: Still a black box?
Authors: Mayr N. Patrick , Taniguchi Yousuke 
Published: October 2024

Key points
Post‐TAVR, there is a significant increase in pro‐coagulatory parameters in conjunction with a decrease in platelet counts.
Finding the right balance between thrombosis and bleeding after the procedure is essential, and the results presented here will add knowledge to this topic
The effect of protamine in different dosages on the postoperative course of thrombin generation and coagulation needs more data
ProGlide‐AngioSeal versus ProGlide‐FemoSeal for vascular access hemostasis posttranscatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Samy Mohamed , Landt Martin , Mankerious Nader , Kurniadi Arief , Alotaibi Sultan , Toelg Ralph , Abdel‐Wahab Mohamed , Nef Holger , Allali Abdelhakim , Richardt Gert , Elbasha Karim 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe hybrid strategy combining plug‐based and suture‐based vascular closure devices (VCD) was introduced as a promising technique for vascular access hemostasis after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with satisfactory outcomes. However, data comparing two plug‐based VCDs each in the combination with a suture‐based VCD, namely ProGlide/AngioSeal (P/AS) with ProGlide/FemoSeal (P/FS) VCDs, is still lacking.AimsTo compare the 30‐day outcome of the hybrid strategy using P/AS versus P/FS for vascular access site closure after TAVI.MethodsA retrospective single‐center observational study included 608 patients recruited from a prospective TAVI registry between 2016 and 2022. The composite endpoint was defined as any VCD‐related major vascular complications and/or bleeding more than type 1 according to Valve Academic Research Consortium criteria.ResultsThe current study reported a significantly higher rate of composite endpoint in P/AS group, which was driven by a higher rate of major bleeding (5.4% vs. 1.4%, p = 0.036). We also found a higher rate of VCD‐related minor bleeding in P/AS group (16.3% vs. 8.1%, p = 0.013). Successful access site hemostasis was achieved in 71.7% of P/AS group versus 83.1% in P/FS group (p = 0.006). The presence of anterior wall calcification at the access site was significantly associated with the composite endpoint (adj odds ratio 2.49; 95% confidence interval (1.08–5.75), p = 0.032).ConclusionThe hybrid strategy for large bore vascular access closure using P/FS showed a potentially better 30‐day outcomes compared with P/AS. The presence of anterior calcification at the access site carries a significant risk of VCD‐related complications.
A Water‐Soluble Cycloparaphenylene: Supramolecular Receptor with Visible Fluorescence
Authors: Morito Ryo , Kataoka Takayuki , Saito Kunio , Osakada Kohtaro , Ide Tomohito , Tsuchido Yoshitaka , Kawai Hidetoshi 
Published: October 2024

AbstractWe report the first synthesis of a water‐soluble [9]cycloparaphenylene derivative containing three hydrindacene (1,2,3,5,6,7‐hexahydro‐s‐indacene) units with four carboxylates at the 2,6‐positions via a macrocyclic gold complex. This crown‐shaped macrocyclic compound exhibits remarkable water solubility, of up to 16 mmol L−1 (2.6 g/100 mL), as well as strong visible fluorescence in water (λem=447 nm, ϕF=0.64, brightness (ϵ×ϕF)=5.1×104). This molecule effectively encapsulates cationic guest compounds, such as methyl viologen dichloride, as indicated by a change in visible fluorescence.
Engineering Phi29‐DNAP Variants for Customized DNA Hydrogel Materials
Authors: Gaspers Philipp , Lemke Phillip , Delavault André , Domínguez Carmen M. , Rabe Kersten S. , Niemeyer Christof M. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractDNA hydrogels, which hold potential for use in medicine, biosensors, and tissue engineering, can be produced through enzymatic rolling circle amplification (RCA) using phi29 DNA polymerase (DNAP). This paper introduces new DNAP variants designed for RCA‐based DNA hydrogel production, featuring enzymes with modified DNA binding, enhanced thermostability, reduced exonuclease activity, and protein tags for fluorescence detection or specific immobilization. We evaluated these enzymes by quantifying DNA output via quantitative PCR (qPCR) and assessing hydrogel mechanical properties through micromechanical indentation. The results showed that most variants generated similar DNA amounts and hydrogels with comparable mechanical properties. Additionally, all variants successfully incorporated non‐natural nucleotides, such as base‐modified dGTP derivatives and 2′fluoro‐dGTP, during RCA. This study's robust analytical approach offers a strong foundation for selecting new enzymes and producing DNA hydrogels with tailored material properties.