bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Propensity weighting plus adjustment in proportional hazards model is not doubly robust
Authors: Gabriel Erin E , Sachs Michael C , Waernbaum Ingeborg , Goetghebeur Els , Blanche Paul F , Vansteelandt Stijn , Sjölander Arvid , Scheike Thomas 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT
Recently, it has become common for applied works to combine commonly used survival analysis modeling methods, such as the multivariable Cox model and propensity score weighting, with the intention of forming a doubly robust estimator of an exposure effect hazard ratio that is unbiased in large samples when either the Cox model or the propensity score model is correctly specified. This combination does not, in general, produce a doubly robust estimator, even after regression standardization, when there is truly a causal effect. We demonstrate via simulation this lack of double robustness for the semiparametric Cox model, the Weibull proportional hazards model, and a simple proportional hazards flexible parametric model, with both the latter models fit via maximum likelihood. We provide a novel proof that the combination of propensity score weighting and a proportional hazards survival model, fit either via full or partial likelihood, is consistent under the null of no causal effect of the exposure on the outcome under particular censoring mechanisms if either the propensity score or the outcome model is correctly specified and contains all confounders. Given our results suggesting that double robustness only exists under the null, we outline 2 simple alternative estimators that are doubly robust for the survival difference at a given time point (in the above sense), provided the censoring mechanism can be correctly modeled, and one doubly robust method of estimation for the full survival curve. We provide R code to use these estimators for estimation and inference in the supporting information.
In vitro evaluation of the accuracy of electronic apex locators and cone-beam CT in the detection of oblique root fractures
Authors: Koç Simay , Harorlı Hatice , Kuştarcı Alper 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
This study aimed to compare the accuracy of cone-beam CT (CBCT) scanning and 3 different electronic apex locators (EALs) in the detection of simulated oblique root fractures (ORF) in different localizations.

Methods
The study utilised a total of 80 human maxillary incisors, which were categorised into two groups based on the location of the ORF (apical and middle third of the root) formed on the buccal side of the root surface. The measurement of the distance between the incisal edge and the intersection of the ORF with the root canal was conducted using a stereomicroscope. This measurement is referred to as the actual working length (AWL). Additionally, three EALs—Dentaport ZX, EndoRadar Pro, and Propex II—were utilised to determine the electronic working length (EWL). Furthermore, CBCT images were employed to assess the distance, known as the CBCT working length (CWL). The differences were determined by subtracting AWL from EWL and CWL.

Results
Based on the accuracy of the devices, there were no significant differences observed among Dentaport ZX, EndoRadar, Propex II, and CBCT measures in both the apical and middle third ORF groups, within the acceptable range of 0.5 and 1 mm.

Conclusions
The accuracy of Dentaport ZX, Propex II, and CBCT was higher in the middle third ORF group compared to the apical third ORF group, with a tolerance of 0.5 mm. However, there were no significant differences seen among the devices.
Wireworm species associated with corn and soybean agroecosystems in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Smith Jocelyn L , van Herk Willem G , Schwinghamer Timothy , Baute Tracey , Limay-Rios Victor , Frewin Andrew , Sevcik Mika , Vernon Bob 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Wireworms, the larvae of click beetles (Coleoptera: Elateridae), are often the target of insecticide seed treatments commonly used in corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) production in North America. Nevertheless, there is a lack of knowledge of the species, life history, and economic impact of wireworms present in these agroecosystems. An extensive survey of wireworms was conducted in corn and soybean fields in Ontario, Canada, from 2014 to 2017 to document species distribution and co-occurrence and to identify risk factors related to their abundance. In total, 4,332 specimens were collected from 1,245 different sampling records. The dominant species collected was Limonius agonus (Say) (Coleoptera: Elateridae) comprising 71.5% of the specimens. The remaining wireworm specimens were identified as Hypnoidus abbreviatus (Say), Melanotus similis (Kirby), M. cribulosus (LeConte), M. depressus (Melsheimer), M. communis (Gyllenhal), Agriotes mancus (Say), Aeolus mellillus (Say), and Hemicrepidius spp (Germar). Multiple wireworm species were found to commonly occur within the same field and the same sample. Path analysis was conducted to investigate whether site, soil, and agronomic characteristics influenced wireworm distribution and abundance. Several significant relationships were found between wireworm species and geographic factors, soil texture, and agronomic practices. The results of this survey provide critical information that can be used to improve integrated pest management of the major wireworm genera found in corn and soybean agroecosystems in Ontario.
Securitization, Deterrence, and Extended Deterrence by Denial: The War in Ukraine
Authors: Lupovici Amir 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The war in Ukraine created a situation in which various actors issued and responded to existential threats. These incidents of aggressive rhetoric invite a scholarly discussion about the securitizing moves of deterrence. More specifically, I identify five interrelated securitizing moves—each responding to the other moves—within which deterrent threats are embedded: It allows us to trace how Russian enunciators securitized the threat from the West and Ukraine and justified taking the exceptional measures of an invasion. This resulted in Ukraine making a counter-securitizing move, with the aim to receive international military assistance. In addition, the Russians securitized a potential direct involvement of NATO in the war in order to deter it. Locked between these securitizing moves of Russia on the one hand and Ukraine on the other, NATO members eventually chose to advance an extended deterrence by denial strategy through the unique means of providing weapons. By delivering the message that they are committed to support Ukraine, they aim to convince the Russians that allocating resources to fight in Ukraine is a worthless endeavor. Examining this case thus offers interesting implications for both deterrence and securitization theories.
Supplementation of sodium acetate improves the growth performance and intestinal health of rabbits through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Ni Mengke , He Hui , Chen Mengjuan , Li Zhichao , Cai Hanfang , Chen Zhi , Li Ming , Xu Huifen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Acetic acid, which is one of the most abundant short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in rabbits’ cecum, has been reported to play an important function during various physiological metabolic processes. The present study was conducted to elucidate the effects of sodium acetate on growth performance and intestinal health by evaluating feed intake and efficiency, diarrhea score, serum and cecum metabolites, cecal pH and SCFA, histological staining, nutritional composition of meat and gene expression profile of cecum in rabbits. As a result of sodium acetate supplement, the feed conversion ratio, diarrhea score, and diameter of muscle fiber were significantly decreased (P &lt; 0.05). Additionally, dietary sodium acetate significantly increased in total area of muscle fibers and content of crude ash (P &lt; 0.05). Dietary sodium acetate significantly increased serum glucose, total bile acid, and total cholesterol levels and decreased amylase, lipase, and tCO2 content (P &lt; 0.05). Further examination suggested that sodium acetate supplementation enhanced the micro-environment of cecum, evidenced by significantly increased levels of total antioxidant capacity, total superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase, and decreased pH and amylase levels (P &lt; 0.05). According to transcriptome sequencing of cecal tissues, differentially expressed genes were predominantly enriched in cell cycle, ABC transporters, and chemokine signaling pathways. Sodium acetate was further suggested to stimulate the proliferation and migration of rabbits’ cecum epithelial cells by activating Wnt/β-catenin pathway both in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, dietary sodium acetate supplementation improved growth performance and intestinal health in rabbits.
Timing-dependent effects of elevated temperature on reproductive traits in the European corn borer moth
Authors: Velikaneye Brittany A , Kozak Genevieve M 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Elevated temperature often has life stage-specific effects on ectotherms because thermal tolerance varies throughout ontogeny. Impacts of elevated temperature may extend beyond the exposed life stage if developmental plasticity causes early exposure to carry-over or if exposure at multiple life stages cumulatively produces effects. Reproductive traits may be sensitive to different thermal environments experienced during development, but such effects have not been comprehensively measured in Lepidoptera. In this study, we investigate how elevated temperature at different life stages alters reproduction in the European corn borer moth, Ostrinia nubilalis. We tested effects of exposure to elevated temperature (28 °C) separately or additively during larval, pupal, and adult life stages compared to control temperatures (23 °C). We found that exposure to elevated pupal and adult temperature decreased the number of egg clusters produced, but exposure limited to a single stage did not significantly impact reproductive output. Furthermore, elevated temperature during the pupal stage led to a faster transition to the adult stage and elevated larval temperature altered synchrony of adult eclosion, either by itself or combined with pupal temperature exposure. These results suggest that exposure to elevated temperature during development alters reproduction in corn borers in multiple ways, including through carry-over and additive effects. Additive effects of temperature across life stages are thought to be less common than stage-specific or carry-over effects, but our results suggest thermal environments experienced at all life stages need to be considered when predicting reproductive responses of insects to heatwaves.
Real-world evidence of triplet therapy efficacy in patients with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer: a Japanese multicenter study
Authors: Urabe Fumihiko , Imai Yu , Goto Yuma , Tashiro Kojiro , Hashimoto Masaki , Yoshihara Kentaro , Yamamoto Shutaro , Hara Shuhei , Miyajima Keiichiro , Fukuokaya Wataru , Enei Yuki , Iwatani Kosuke , Kayano Sotaro , Igarashi Taro , Aikawa Koichi , Yanagisawa Takafumi , Kimura Shoji , Tsuzuki Shunsuke , Murakami Masaya , Hata Kenichi , Shimomura Tatsuya , Yamada Hiroki , Miki Jun , Kimura Takahiro 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Two randomized trials demonstrated that the survival benefits afforded by triplet therapy were greater than those of doublet therapy, thus changing the treatment paradigm for metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC). This is the first study to assess the real-world use, performance, and safety of triplet therapy in Japanese patients.

Methods
This retrospective multicenter study included 45 consecutive mCSPC patients who received triplet therapy composed of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), docetaxel, and darolutamide between January 2023 and June 2024. Baseline patient characteristics and their clinical parameters during triplet therapy were collected. Adverse events (AEs) were graded using Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0, and imaging responses were evaluated following the RECIST criteria. The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) nadir was defined as the lowest PSA value during follow-up, and the PSA decrease was the initial PSA value minus the PSA nadir.

Results
The median patient age was 70 years and the median follow-up duration was 10 months. High-volume disease was present in 82.2% of patients. Concurrent administration of docetaxel and darolutamide was scheduled for 22.2% of cases. The incidence of any AE was 86.7%, with 55.5% of patients experiencing grade 3–4 AEs. Neutropenia was common, but prophylactic granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) significantly reduced the incidence of neutropenia of grade 3 or higher. Febrile neutropenia occurred in four patients (8.9%); these patients had not received prophylactic G-CSF. A decline in PSA of 90% was observed in 95.6% of patients, and an imaging response was seen in 97.8%.

Conclusions
Triplet therapy with ADT, darolutamide, and docetaxel was highly efficacious and tolerable in Japanese mCSPC patients, particularly those with high-volume disease. Prophylactic G-CSF prescription is crucial to manage neutropenia effectively. Further studies with longer follow-ups are needed to confirm these findings and explore the long-term outcomes.
‘Being free’: Indigenous youth and future making in the wake of forced migration
Authors: Nichols Briana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Taking migration discourse (Dick 2010, 2013; Dick and Arnold 2017) as a starting point, this paper examines how Indigenous youth in Guatemala navigate and understand complex migratory contexts at home before they decide, or are compelled, to migrate. Using methods of discourse analysis, I illuminate how talk about migration becomes a key site for young people to challenge transnational migration as an opportunity and thereby create alternate spatiotemoral renderings of the future for themselves and their communities. I argue that through their migration discourse young people are engaging in a form of everyday politics that helps complicate our understandings of the migratory contexts they are part of. As such, this work contributes to how we conceptualize migratory contexts that do not fall neatly into categories of ‘voluntary’ and ‘involuntary’ and instead argues for an attentiveness to migratory decision-making as a complex negotiation—a complexity which is often lost when we position ‘deciding to leave’ and ‘fleeing’ as incommensurate and analytically distinct categories.
Stereoscopic Microscopy of Snow Crystals
Authors: Sturm Robert 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Snow crystals (snowflakes) are composed of an enormous diversity of shapes that have attracted significant scientific attention over the past decades. Under the microscope, these natural structures are frequently characterized by high complexity, the detailed exploration of which requires the use of enhanced magnifications. In the work presented here, an insight into the microcosm of snow crystals is presented by application of specific light microscopy techniques. Micrographs were produced by means of a low-temperature (LT) device that prevented premature melting of the structures. Additionally, single crystals were imaged as to a stereoscopic visualization allowing the detailed spatial investigation of specific structural elements.
Interpretable deep residual network uncovers nucleosome positioning and associated features
Authors: Masoudi-Sobhanzadeh Yosef , Li Shuxiang , Peng Yunhui , Panchenko Anna R 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Nucleosomes represent elementary building units of eukaryotic chromosomes and consist of DNA wrapped around a histone octamer flanked by linker DNA segments. Nucleosomes are central in epigenetic pathways and their genomic positioning is associated with regulation of gene expression, DNA replication, DNA methylation and DNA repair, among other functions. Building on prior discoveries that DNA sequences noticeably affect nucleosome positioning, our objective is to identify nucleosome positions and related features across entire genome. Here, we introduce an interpretable framework based on the concepts of deep residual networks (NuPoSe). Trained on high-coverage human experimental MNase-seq data, NuPoSe is able to learn sequence and structural patterns associated with nucleosome organization in human genome. NuPoSe can be also applied to unseen data from different organisms and cell types. Our findings point to 43 informative features, most of them constitute tri-nucleotides, di-nucleotides and one tetra-nucleotide. Most features are significantly associated with the nucleosomal structural characteristics, namely, periodicity of nucleosomal DNA and its location with respect to a histone octamer. Importantly, we show that features derived from the 27 bp linker DNA flanking nucleosomes contribute up to 10% to the quality of the prediction model. This, along with the comprehensive training sets, deep-learning architecture, and feature selection method, may contribute to the NuPoSe's 80–89% classification accuracy on different independent datasets.
A UTP3-dependent nucleolar translocation pathway facilitates pre-rRNA 5′ETS processing
Authors: Bao Jiayang , Su Baochun , Chen Zheyan , Sun Zhaoxiang , Peng Jinrong , Zhao Shuyi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The ribosome small subunit (SSU) is assembled by the SSU processome which contains approximately 70 non-ribosomal protein factors. Whilst the biochemical mechanisms of the SSU processome in 18S rRNA processing and maturation have been extensively studied, how SSU processome components enter the nucleolus has yet to be systematically investigated. Here, in examining the nucleolar localization of 50 human SSU processome components, we found that UTP3, together with another 24 proteins, enter the nucleolus autonomously. For the remaining 25 proteins we found that UTP3/SAS10 assists the nucleolar localization of five proteins (MPP10, UTP25, EMG1 and the two UTP-B components UTP12 and UTP13), likely through its interaction with nuclear importin α. This ‘ferrying’ function of UTP3 was then confirmed as conserved in the zebrafish. We also found that knockdown of human UTP3 impairs cleavage at the A0-site while loss-of-function of either utp3/sas10 or utp13/tbl3 in zebrafish causes the accumulation of aberrantly processed 5′ETS products, which highlights the crucial role of UTP3 in mediating 5′ETS processing. Mechanistically, we found that UTP3 facilitates the degradation of processed 5′ETS by recruiting the RNA exosome component EXOSC10 to the nucleolus. These findings lay the groundwork for studying the mechanism of cytoplasm-to-nucleolus trafficking of SSU processome components.
A Qualitative Study to Understand the Barriers and Facilitators in Smoking Cessation Practices Among Oncology Health Care Practitioners in One Health System
Authors: Frazer Kate , Bhardwaj Nancy , Fox Patricia , Lyons Ailsa , Syed Shiraz , Niranjan Vikram , McCann Amanda , Kelly Catherine , Brennan Sinead , Brennan Donal , Geraghty James , Keane Michael P , Fitzpatrick Patricia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Despite the benefits of quitting smoking for those who have cancer, including improved health outcomes and reduced therapeutic toxicities, it is unclear how many people are supported in quit attempts during this time. Variations in the availability and provision of smoking cessation (SC) services are reported, with little understanding of the challenges and solutions. This codesigned study aimed to understand the perspectives of health care professionals (HCPs) working in oncology settings to engage in SC practices and identify recommendations for developing a SC pathway.

Aims and Methods
This was a qualitative study. Eighteen HCPs participated in semi-structured interviews from July 2021 to May 2022. We used thematic analysis approaches to code data and present four themes and SC strategies at micro, meso, and organizational levels.

Results
Four themes are reported specifically: (1) timing and knowledge, (2) building a relationship, (3) frequent asking with infrequent action, and (4) removing the barriers and tailoring the system. While HCPs discuss SC, there are variations in documentation and when conversations occur. Primarily, HCPs value the time to build therapeutic relationships with patients and thus may limit SC discussions in preference to treatment in clinical interactions. The role of structural barriers, including prescriptive authority for nurses, hinders active SC processes, as it is the lack of continuity and embedding of services supported by a clinical champion for SC.

Conclusions
The study suggests reevaluating the status quo in SC service, highlighting service gaps, and suggesting opportunities at organizational levels to reduce structural barriers.

Implications
Variations in SC services exist in designated cancer centers. The data from this study can be used to inform a real-time health systems approach for SC services in oncology settings. Developing tailored SC services and interventions that are patient-centered and informed by their experiences is required. The data in this study suggest developing specialist education and training to upskill HCPs for equitable engagement if we are to meet EU and Cancer Moonshot goals for cancer reduction.
Effects of Hesperidin Supplementation on Cardiometabolic Markers: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Heidari Zeinab , Farahmandpour Fatemeh , Bazyar Hadi , Pashayee-Khamene Fereshteh 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Context
Hesperidin is a naturally occurring bioactive compound that may influence cardiometabolic markers, but the existing evidence is inconclusive.

Objective
This study aims to further investigate the effects of hesperidin supplementation on cardiometabolic markers in adults.

Data Sources
A comprehensive search was conducted up to August 2023, utilizing relevant key words in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, focusing on randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Data Extraction
RCTs that examined the impact of hesperidin on fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin, quantitative insulin-sensitivity check index (QUICKI), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglyceride (TG), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were selected independently by 2 authors. The GRADE assessment was used to ascertain the certainty of the evidence. Results were pooled using a random-effects model as weighted mean differences and 95% CIs.

Data Analysis
The results of this study demonstrate that hesperidin supplementation had a significant impact on reducing FBS, TG, TC, LDL-C, SBP, and TNF-α. However, there was no significant effect observed on insulin, HOMA-IR, QUICKI, HDL-C, DBP, and hs-CRP. The study's subgroup analyses also revealed that interventions lasting more than 12 weeks were effective in reducing FBS, TG, TC, and LDL-C. Moreover, hesperidin dosage exceeding 500 mg/day showed significance in reducing FBS, TC, and LDL-C levels.

Conclusion
In conclusion, this research suggests that hesperidin can be consumed as an effective dietary approach to enhance cardiometabolic markers.

Systematic Review Registration
PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022325775.