bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of subsurface water level on gully headcut retreat in tropical highlands of Ethiopia
Authors: Yibeltal Mesenbet , Tsunekawa Atsushi , Haregeweyn Nigussie , Adgo Enyew , Meshesha Derege Tsegaye , Masunaga Tsugiyuki , Tsubo Mitsuru , Billi Paolo , Ebabu Kindiye , Liyew Berihun Mulatu 
Published: February 2021

AbstractGully erosion is a major cause of soil loss and severe land degradation in sub‐humid Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to investigate the role and the effect of subsurface water level change on gully headcut retreat, gully formation and expansion in high rainfall tropical regions in the Ethiopian highlands. During the rainy seasons of 2017–2019, the expansion rate of 16 fixed gullies was measured and subsurface water levels were measured by piezometers installed near gully heads. During the study period, headcut retreats ranged from 0.70 to 2.35 m, with a mean value of 1.49 ± 0.56 m year−1, and average depth of the surface water level varied between 1.12 and 2.82 m, with a mean value of 2.62 m. Gully cross‐section areas ranged from 2.90 to 20.90 m2, with an average of 9.31 ± 4.80 m2. Volumetric retreat of gully headcuts ranged from 4.49 to 40.55 m3 and averaged 13.34 ± 9.10 m3. Soil loss from individual gullies ranged from 5.79 to 52.31 t year−1 and averaged 17.21 ± 11.74 t year−1. The headcut retreat rate and sediment yield were closely related over the three study seasons. Elevated subsurface water levels facilitated the slumping of gully banks and heads, causing high sediment yield. When the soil was saturated, bank collapse and headcut retreat were favoured by the combination of elevated subsurface water and high rainfall. This study indicates that area exclosures are effective in controlling subsurface water level, thus reducing gully headcut retreat and associated soil loss.
Comparative Performance of Multiple Linear Regression and Biotic Ligand Models for Estimating the Bioavailability of Copper in Freshwater
Authors: Brix Kevin V. , Tear Lucinda , Santore Robert C. , Croteau Kelly , DeForest David K. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
An increasing number of metal bioavailability models are available for use in setting regulations and conducting risk assessments in aquatic systems. Selection of the most appropriate model is dependent on the user's needs but will always benefit from an objective, comparative assessment of the performance of available models. In 2017, an expert workshop developed procedures for assessing metal bioavailability models. The present study applies these procedures to evaluate the performance of biotic ligand models (BLMs) and multiple linear regression (MLR) models for copper. We find that the procedures recommended by the expert workshop generally provide a robust series of metrics for evaluating model performance. However, we recommend some modifications to the analysis of model residuals because the current method is insensitive to relatively large differences in residual patterns when comparing models. We also provide clarification on details of the evaluation procedure which, if not applied correctly, could mischaracterize model performance. We found that acute Cu MLR and BLM performances are quite comparable, though there are differences in performance on a species-specific basis and in the resulting water quality criteria as a function of water chemistry. In contrast, the chronic Cu MLR performed distinctly better than the BLM. Observed differences in performance are due to the smaller effects of hardness and pH on chronic Cu toxicity compared to acute Cu toxicity. These differences are captured in the chronic MLR model but not the chronic BLM, which only adjusts for differences in organism sensitivity. In general, we continue to recommend concurrent development of both modeling approaches because they provide useful comparative insights into the strengths, limitations, and predictive capabilities of each model. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1649–1661. © 2021 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Any day, split halfway: Flexibility in scheduling high‐dose cisplatin—A large retrospective review from a high‐volume cancer center
Authors: Kang Jung Julie , Tchekmedyian Vatche , Mohammed Nader , Rybkin Alisa , Kitpanit Sarin , Fan Ming , Wang Huili , Lobaugh Stephanie M. , Zhang Zhigang , Lee Anna , Chen Linda , Yu Yao , Zakeri Kaveh , Gelblum Daphna Y. , Riaz Nadeem , McBride Sean M. , Tsai C. Jillian , Cohen Marc A. , Cracchiolo Jennifer R. , Morris Luc G. , Singh Bhuvanesh , Patel Snehal , Ganly Ian , Boyle Jay O. , Wong Richard J. , Eng Juliana , Zhi Wanqing Iris , Ng Kenneth , Ho Alan L. , Dunn Lara A. , Michel Loren , Fetten James V. , Pfister David G. , Lee Nancy Y. , Sherman Eric J. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractHigh‐dose (HD) cisplatin remains the standard of care with chemoradiation for locally advanced oropharyngeal cancer (OPC). Cooperative group trials mandate bolus‐HD (100 mg/m2 × 1 day, every 3 weeks) cisplatin administration at the beginning of the week to optimize radiosensitization—a requirement which may be unnecessary. This analysis evaluates the impact of chemotherapy administration day of week (DOW) on outcomes. We also report our institutional experience with an alternate dosing schedule, split‐HD (50 mg/m2 × 2 days, every 3 weeks). We retrospectively reviewed 435 definitive chemoradiation OPC patients from 10 December 2001 to 23 December 2014. Those receiving non‐HD cisplatin regimens or induction chemotherapy were excluded. Data collected included DOW, dosing schedule (bolus‐HD vs split‐HD), smoking, total cumulative dose (TCD), stage, Karnofsky Performance Status, human papillomavirus status and creatinine (baseline, peak and posttreatment baseline). Local failure (LF), regional failure (RF), locoregional failure (LRF), distant metastasis (DM), any failure (AF, either LRF or DM) and overall survival (OS) were calculated from radiation therapy start. Median follow‐up was 8.0 years (1.8 months‐17.0 years). DOW, dosing schedule and TCD were not associated with any outcomes in univariable or multivariable regression models. There was no statistically significant difference in creatinine or association with TCD in split‐HD vs bolus‐HD. There was no statistically significant association between DOW and outcomes, suggesting that cisplatin could be administered any day. Split‐HD had no observed differences in outcomes, renal toxicity or TCD compared to bolus‐HD cisplatin. Our data suggest that there is some flexibility of when and how to give HD cisplatin compared to clinical trial mandates.
A sudden decrease in voice volume: A rare manifestation of spontaneous pneumomediastinum
Authors: Urushidani Seigo , Kuriyama Akira 
Published: February 2021

AbstractSpontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) is a rare condition characterized by free air in the mediastinum that primarily affects young individuals between the ages of 10 and 30 years. The most frequent symptoms of SPM are chest pain and dyspnea. However, a decrease in voice volume without a change of tone is a rare presentation. SPM is generally a benign and self‐limiting condition, but it can occasionally cause tension pneumothorax. If a young patient presents with a sudden decrease in voice volume without a change of tone, SPM should be considered as a possible diagnosis.
Anti‐spike S1 receptor‐binding domain antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐2 persist several months after infection regardless of disease severity
Authors: Bavaro Davide F. , Laghetti Paola , Milano Eugenio , Brindicci Gaetano , Volpe Anna , Lagioia Antonella , Saracino Annalisa , Monno Laura 
Published: February 2021

AbstractData regarding the immunological memory and long‐time kinetics of immunoglobulin (IgG) against viral nucleoprotein (NP) and spike protein S1 receptor‐binding domain (S1RBD) of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome‐associated Coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) are lacking. All consecutive COVID‐19 patients admitted to our Clinic between March 1, 2020, and May 1, 2020, who were tested at hospital admission for anti‐S1RBD and anti‐NP IgG were enrolled. Serum samples were tested for anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies with the use of two commercially available enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. Results are expressed as optical density measurements at 450 nm (OD450). Overall, 111 patients were included; the median (q1–q3) age was 57 (49–73) years, 59 (53%) males. According to disease severity, 31 (28%), 47 (42%), and 33 (30%) patients were considered affected by mild/moderate, severe, and critical SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, respectively. During hospitalization, patients with the critical disease showed a higher peak value of both anti‐NP (median OD450: 3.66 vs. 3.06 vs. 3.00 respectively, p = .043) and anti‐S1RBD IgG (median OD450: 2.33 vs. 1.6 vs. 0.91, respectively, p < .001). By testing 48 subjects 6 months or above from discharge, a significant decrease of anti‐NP IgG was observed (r: −0.5838; p < .0001), whereas anti‐S1RBD IgG showed only a modest reduction (r: −0.1507; p = .0647). Accordingly, 10 (21%) and 2 (4%) patients had a negative serological status for anti‐NP and anti‐S1RBD IgG, respectively; no association with clinical severity was found. IgGs against SARS‐CoV‐2 persisted several months after discharge, regardless of disease severity, suggesting that vaccination could be a valid strategy to fight the pandemic.
Metabolic syndrome and severe periodontitis were associated in Thai adults: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Suwanprasit Winita , Lertpimonchai Attawood , Thienpramuk Lalitsara , Vathesatogkit Prin , Sritara Piyamitr , Tamsailom Suphot 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundStudies support the relationship between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and periodontitis. However, age is the major confounding factor for both conditions. Therefore, this cross‐sectional study was performed to investigate the relationship between MetS and severe periodontitis in different Thai adult age groups.MethodsData on the medical history, medical examination, and full mouth oral examination of 5,690 Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand employees aged 25 to 77 years were collected. The prevalence ratio (PR) between risk variables, MetS, and periodontitis was determined using Poisson regression analysis. Moreover, the subgroup analysis and effect modification by age on severe periodontitis were performed.ResultsOverall, MetS was significantly associated with severe periodontitis compared with non‐severe periodontitis (adjusted PR, 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01 to 1.13). The association was modified by age, with negative effect modification observed on the multiplicative and additive scales. The subgroup analysis revealed a significant relationship between MetS and severe periodontitis only in participants aged <45 years with an adjusted PR of 1.69 (95% CI, 1.29 to 2.21). All MetS components, except hypertension, were associated with severe periodontitis in this group.ConclusionsThere is a significant relationship between MetS and severe periodontitis in adults aged <45 years. Therefore, attempts to control the risk of MetS and periodontitis should be emphasized for early adults to reduce the incidence of these conditions and related complications when they become elderly.
Sensitivities of slantwise convection dynamics to model grid spacing under an idealized framework
Authors: Chen Ting‐Chen , Yau Man‐Kong , Kirshbaum Daniel J. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAlthough the release of conditional symmetric instability (CSI) by slantwise convection is recognized as an important baroclinic process, the basic dynamics of these circulations and their representation in numerical models remain inadequately understood. To address this issue, a series of 2D idealized experiments of pure slantwise convection are performed in an initially statically stable environment using the non‐hydrostatic Weather Research and Forecasting model, with the horizontal grid lengths varying between 1 and 40 km. The results show that the larger‐scale feedbacks of the slantwise convection converge numerically when a cross‐band grid length (∆y) of 5 km is reached. The differences between the non‐converged and converged results tie closely to the release of a shallow layer of conditional instability that inevitably accompanies the early development of the slantwise circulation due to differential advection of saturation equivalent potential temperature (). The resolved small‐scale upright convection embedded within the slantwise band can energize the horizontal acceleration of the slantwise band at mid‐to‐upper levels by transporting low geostrophic momentum upward that results in localized inertial instability. The convective cell also enhances the large‐scale CSI neutralization by advecting high downward with strong downdraughts that orient more vertically than coarser‐gridded runs. Moreover, ∆y ≤ 5 km also better resolves the horizontal pressure gradients for cross‐band motions. This work suggests that global/climate numerical weather prediction models may not adequately resolve important characteristics of slantwise convection. As most cumulus schemes target only upright convection, the inclusion of parametrized slantwise convection may improve their performance.
A data assimilation algorithm for predicting rain
Authors: Janjić Tijana , Ruckstuhl Yvonne , Toint Philippe L. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractConvective‐scale data assimilation uses high‐resolution numerical weather prediction models and temporally and spatially dense observations of relevant atmospheric variables. In addition, it requires a data assimilation algorithm that is able to provide initial conditions for a state vector of large size with one third or more of its components containing prognostic hydrometeors variables whose non‐negativity needs to be preserved. The algorithm also needs to be fast as the state vector requires a high updating frequency in order to catch fast‐changing convection. A computationally efficient algorithm for quadratic optimization (QO, or formerly QP) is presented here, which preserves physical properties in order to represent features of the real atmosphere. Crucially for its performance, it exploits the fact that the resulting linear constraints may be disjoint. Numerical results on a simple model designed for testing convective‐scale data assimilation show accurate results and promising computational cost. In particular, if constraints on physical quantities are disjoint and their rank is small, further reduction in computational costs can be achieved.
Profiling of 120 types of herbal extracts and their effects on morphology in cultured neuronal or glial cell lines, followed by RNA extraction for a cDNA library: Consideration for use in studies based on Kampo theories
Authors: Tohda Michihisa , Qing Feng Zhao 
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACTAimKampo medicine is composed of a variety of crude drugs. Each crude drug has its own effects, and the interaction of all drugs produces the therapeutic effect of Kampo medicine. In order to examine the characteristics of Kampo medicine and its crude drugs, 120 types of herbal medicines were characterized based on their three‐dimensional high‐performance liquid chromatography (3D‐HPLC) profiles as well as their effects on cell morphology/proliferation when added to cultured cells and gene expression changes such as on BNIP‐3 mRNA levels as an example.MethodsThe cultured neural cell line N18‐TG‐2 and glial cell line C6Bu‐1 were used in experiments. After the acquisition of 3D‐HPLC data, each crude drug was added to the cell culture medium at concentrations of 10 and 100 μg/mL, images were taken of morphological changes, and RNA was extracted to prepare a complementary DNA (cDNA) library.ResultsAll the results obtained from the treatments with 120 crude drugs are listed in the Supporting Information. Based on these data, as an example the expression of antidepressant‐related factor BNIP‐3, which we had previously found to increase in expression after treatment with Hochuekkito, was studied and the results obtained revealed that it was increased by Astragali Radix, Cimicifugae Rhizoma, Glycyrrhizae Radix and others.ConclusionThe present results, which were collected from observations under unified conditions, include information that will promote herbal medicine research. Future studies to examine the effects of crude drug combinations are also discussed, suggesting that the information files and cDNA library presented here can be the basis for many future integrated studies such as new Wakan‐yaku prescription developments.
Rasagiline effects on glucose metabolism, cognition, and tau in Alzheimer's dementia
Authors: Matthews Dawn C. , Ritter Aaron , Thomas Ronald G. , Andrews Randolph D. , Lukic Ana S. , Revta Carolyn , Kinney Jefferson W. , Tousi Babak , Leverenz James B. , Fillit Howard , Zhong Kate , Feldman Howard H. , Cummings Jeffrey 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundA Phase II proof of concept (POC) randomized clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of rasagiline, a monoamine oxidase B (MAO‐B) inhibitor approved for Parkinson disease, in mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD). The primary objective was to determine if 1 mg of rasagiline daily for 24 weeks is associated with improved regional brain metabolism (fluorodeoxyglucose–positron emission tomography [FDG‐PET]) compared to placebo. Secondary objectives included measurement of effects on tau PET and evaluation of directional consistency of clinical end points.MethodsThis was a double‐blind, parallel group, placebo‐controlled, community‐based, three‐site trial of 50 participants randomized 1:1 to receive oral rasagiline or placebo (NCT02359552). FDG‐PET was analyzed for the presence of an AD‐like pattern as an inclusion criterion and as a longitudinal outcome using prespecified regions of interest and voxel‐based analyses. Tau PET was evaluated at baseline and longitudinally. Clinical outcomes were analyzed using an intention‐to‐treat (ITT) model.ResultsFifty patients were randomized and 43 completed treatment. The study met its primary end point, demonstrating favorable change in FDG‐PET differences in rasagiline versus placebo in middle frontal (P < 0.025), anterior cingulate (P < 0.041), and striatal (P < 0.023) regions. Clinical measures showed benefit in quality of life (P < 0.04). Digit Span, verbal fluency, and Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) showed non‐significant directional favoring of rasagiline; no effects were observed in Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale‐Cognitive Subscale (ADAS‐cog) or activities of daily living. Rasagiline was generally well tolerated with low rates of adverse events and notably fewer neuropsychiatric symptoms in the active treatment group.DiscussionThese outcomes illustrate the potential benefits of rasagiline on clinical and neuroimaging measures in patients with mild to moderate AD. Rasagiline appears to affect neuronal activity in frontostriatal pathways, with associated clinical benefit potential warranting a more fully powered trial. This study illustrated the potential benefit of therapeutic repurposing and an experimental medicine proof‐of‐concept design with biomarkers to characterize patient and detect treatment response.
Outcomes of Carotid Revascularization in Patients with Contralateral Carotid Artery Occlusion
Authors: Dakour-Aridi Hanaa , Elsayed Nadin , Malas Mahmoud 
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND:
Little is known about the best revascularization procedure for patients with contralateral carotid artery occlusion (CCO). We aim to compare the outcomes of transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR), carotid endarterectomy (CEA), and transfemoral carotid artery stenting (TFCAS) in patients with CCO.

STUDY DESIGN:
Patients in the Vascular Quality Initiative dataset who underwent CEA, TFCAS, or TCAR, and had CCO between September 2016 and April 2020, were included. Multivariable logistic analysis was used to evaluate in-hospital outcomes.

RESULTS:
The final cohort included 1,144 TCARs, 1,182 TFCAS, and 2,527 CEA procedures performed in patients with CCO. Compared with TFCAS, TCAR was associated with a significant reduction in the odds of in-hospital stroke or death (odds ratio [OR] 0.26; 95% CI: 0.12–0.59; p < 0.01). However, no significant difference in stroke was noted (OR 0.71; 95% CI 0.34–1.51; p = 0.38). These results persisted after stratifying with respect to symptomatic status (p values of interaction = 0.92 and 0.74, respectively). There was no significant difference between TCAR and CEA in odds of in-hospital stroke or death on multivariable adjustment (OR 0.57; 95% CI: 0.29–1.10, p = 0.10). The interaction between procedure type and symptomatic status in predicting in-hospital stroke was statistically significant (p = 0.04). In asymptomatic patients, TCAR was associated with a 50% to 60% reduction in the odds of stroke (p = 0.04). Yet, no significant differences were observed in symptomatic patients.

CONCLUSIONS:
TCAR has lower odds of in-hospital stroke or death compared to TFCAS, independent of symptomatic status. Compared to CEA, TCAR seems to be a better option in asymptomatic patients, with lower odds of in-hospital stroke. Yet, no significant difference is observed in symptomatic patients.
Appraising the Quality of Reporting of American College of Surgeons NSQIP Emergency General Surgery Studies
Authors: El Moheb Mohamad , Sabbagh Hadi , Badin Daniel , Mahmoud Tala , Karam Basil , El Hechi Majed W. , Kaafarani Haytham MA. 
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND:
The quality of emergency general surgery (EGS) studies that use the American College of Surgeons-National Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database is variable. We aimed to critically appraise the methodologic reporting of EGS ACS-NSQIP studies.

STUDY DESIGN:
We searched the PubMed ACS-NSQIP bibliography for EGS studies published from 2004 to 2019. The quality of reporting of each study was assessed according to the number of criteria fulfilled with respect to the 13-item RECORD statement and the 10-item JAMA Surgery checklist. Three criteria in each checklist were not applicable and were therefore excluded. An analysis was conducted comparing studies published in high and low impact factor (IF) journals.

RESULTS:
We identified a total of 99 eligible studies. Twenty-six percent of studies were published in high IF journals, and 73% of the journals had a policy requiring adherence to reporting statements. The median number of criteria fulfilled for the RECORD statement (out of 10 items) and the JAMA Surgery checklist (out of 7 items) were both equal to 4 (interquartile range [IQR] 3, 5). Sixty-three percent of studies did not explain the methodology for data cleaning, 81% of studies did not describe the population selection process, and 55% did not discuss the implications of missing variables. There were no differences in overall scores between studies published in high and low IF journals.

CONCLUSIONS:
The methodologic reporting of EGS studies using ACS-NSQIP remains suboptimal. Future efforts should focus on improving adherence to the policies to mitigate potential sources of bias and improve the credibility of large database studies.