bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Robustness of climate indices relevant for agriculture in Africa deduced from GCMs and RCMs against reanalysis and gridded observations
Authors: Abel Daniel , Ziegler Katrin , Gbode Imoleayo Ezekiel , Weber Torsten , Ajayi Vincent O. , Traoré Seydou B. , Paeth Heiko 
Published: September 2023

AbstractThis study assesses the ability of climate models to represent rainy season (RS) dependent climate indices relevant for agriculture and crop-specific agricultural indices in eleven African subregions. For this, we analyze model ensembles build from Regional Climate Models (RCMs) from CORDEX-CORE (RCM_hist) and their respective driving General Circulation Models (GCMs) from CMIP5 (GCM_hist). Those are compared with gridded reference data including reanalyses at high spatio-temporal resolution (≤ 0.25°, daily) over the climatological period 1981–2010. Furthermore, the ensemble of RCM-evaluation runs forced by ERA-Interim (RCM_eval) is considered. Beside precipitation indices like the precipitation sum or number of rainy days annually and during the RS, we examine three agricultural indices (crop water need (CWN), irrigation requirement, water availability), depending on the RS’ onset. The agricultural-relevant indices as simulated by climate models, including CORDEX-CORE, are assessed for the first time over several African subregions. All model ensembles simulate the general precipitation characteristics well. However, their performance strongly depends on the subregion. We show that the models can represent the RS in subregions with one RS adequately yet struggle in reproducing characteristics of two RSs. Precipitation indices based on the RS also show variable errors among the models and subregions. The representation of CWN is affected by the model family (GCM, RCM) and the forcing data (GCM, ERA-Interim). Nevertheless, the too coarse resolution of the GCMs hinders the representation of such specific indices as they are not able to consider land surface features and related processes of smaller scale. Additionally, the daily scale and the usage of complex variables (e.g., surface latent heat flux for CWN) and related preconditions (e.g., RS-onset and its spatial representation) add uncertainty to the index calculation. Mostly, the RCMs show a higher skill in representing the indices and add value to their forcing models.
Association of pre-diagnostic physical exercise and peri-diagnostic body composition with mortality in non-metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Renman David , van Guelpen Bethany , Anderson Fredrick , Axelsson Jan , Riklund Katrine , Strigård Karin , Palmqvist Richard , Gunnarsson Ulf , Gylling Björn 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Sarcopenia and myosteatosis, quantified via computed tomography (CT), are associated with poor colorectal cancer outcomes. These body composition estimates can be influenced by physical exercise. We explored the correlation between pre-diagnostic physical exercise, body composition close to diagnosis, and the combined prognosis impact of these factors.

Methods
We studied 519 stage I–III colorectal cancer (CRC) cases diagnosed 2000–2016 with pre-diagnostic self-reported recreational physical exercise data collected in the prospective, population-based Northern Sweden Health and Disease Study, and CT-estimated skeletal muscle index (SMI) or skeletal muscle density (SMD). Risk estimates were calculated by multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models.

Results
No association was seen between low pre-diagnostic physical exercise and sarcopenia/myosteatosis in the multivariable model adjusted for age, sex, educational level, tumor stage, and tumor location. In multivariable Cox regression models, the combination of low pre-diagnostic physical exercise and either sarcopenia or myosteatosis at the time of diagnosis was associated with cancer-specific mortality compared to the reference group of high physical exercise combined with no sarcopenia/myosteatosis (adjusted HR 1.94 95% CI 1.00–3.76 for sarcopenia and adjusted HR 2.39 95% CI 1.16–4.94 for myosteatosis).

Conclusions
The combined presence of low pre-diagnostic physical exercise and sarcopenia or myosteatosis was associated with increased CRC-specific mortality. Despite the positive effect on prognosis, physical exercise did not alter body composition estimates at diagnosis, which could indicate attenuation from other factors.
Cumulative incidence and risk factors of myocardial infarction during 20 years of follow-up: comparing two cohorts of middle-aged men born 30 years apart
Authors: Sakalaki Maria , Pivodic Aldina , Svärdsudd Kurt , Hansson Per-Olof , Fu Michael 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Objective
To study cumulative incidence and predictors of myocardial infarction (MI) in two random general population samples consisting of middle-aged Swedish men born 30 years apart.

Method
Results from the “Study of Men Born In 1913” and the “Study of Men Born In 1943”, two longitudinal cohort studies performed in the same geographic area and using the same methodology were compared. Both cohorts were followed prospectively from 50 to 70 years of age. MI was defined as first myocardial infarction, fatal or non-fatal.

Results
Men born in 1943 had a 34% lower cumulative risk of first MI [HR 0.66 (0.50–0.88), p = 0.0051] during follow-up as compared to men born in 1913. Interaction analysis showed that hypertension had a significantly higher impact on risk of MI in cohort 1943 than in cohort 1913 [HR 2.33 (95% CI 1.41–3.83)] and [HR 1.10 (0.74–1.62)], p = 0.0009 respectively. The population attributable risk for hypertension was 2.5-fold higher in the cohort of men born in 1943 as compared to men born in 1913, and diabetes mellitus and sedentary lifestyle attributed more to MI risk in cohort 1943 than in cohort 1913. On the contrary, smoking and total cholesterol have less attributable risk to MI in cohort 1943 than in cohort 1913.

Conclusion
Despite declining incident MI and improved cardiovascular prevention in general, hypertension remains an increasingly important attributable risk factor to MI together with diabetes mellitus and sedentary lifestyle over time.
Bleach baths enhance skin barrier, reduce itch but do not normalize skin dysbiosis in atopic dermatitis
Authors: Stolarczyk Ania , Perez-Nazario Nelissa , Knowlden Sara A. , Chinchilli Ellen , Grier Alex , Paller Amy , Gill Steven R. , De Benedetto Anna , Yoshida Takeshi , Beck Lisa A. 
Published: September 2023

AbstractStudies have demonstrated that bleach baths improve atopic dermatitis (AD) severity; however, the effects on itch, skin barrier, and cutaneous microbial composition are less clear. We examined whether bleach baths reduce itch, normalize skin barrier function, reduce S. aureus absolute abundance, and increase microbial diversity in adults with AD who were colonized with S. aureus on their non-lesional skin. This was an open label, non-randomized, controlled trial performed at a single academic center. Fifteen AD and five non-atopic healthy controls (NA) were instructed to take two bleach baths (0.005% NaClO; 5–10 min duration) per week for a total of 12 weeks as add-on therapy. Adults 18 to 65 years (inclusive) with mild to severe AD were recruited with EASI score > 6.0, S. aureus culture positivity, access to a bathtub, and ability and willingness to maintain current topical or systemic treatments. They were evaluated at baseline (before bleach baths), 6 weeks, and 12 weeks after the intervention of twice-weekly bleach baths. Efficacy measurements included EASI as well as 5-D Pruritus and ItchyQoL™. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum (SC) integrity assay were performed to assess the skin barrier. Skin dysbiosis was measured by S. aureus cultivation, S. aureus abundance (qPCR of thermonuclease gene), and V1-V3 16S rRNA gene sequencing on non-lesional and lesional AD skin. After 12 weeks of bleach baths, 8/15 (53.3%) AD subjects achieved an EASI50 and a significant reduction in itch as measured by 5-D pruritus and Itchy QoL. Eighty-seven percent reported improvements in sleep quality. At study entry, AD subjects had higher non-lesional TEWL values than NA subjects, and only AD subjects experienced a reduction with bleach baths (p = 0.006). Similarly, SC integrity improved as early as 6 weeks after bleach baths in AD subjects. Notably, bleach baths had no significant effect on S. aureus culture-positivity, qPCR absolute abundance, or microbial diversity. The addition of twice-weekly bleach baths improves investigator-assessed AD severity, patient-reported pruritus and sleep as well as physiological measures of skin barrier function in adult AD subjects while having no effect on qualitative and quantitative measures of cutaneous S. aureus. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01996150, Date of registration: November 27th, 2013.
Status quo and future directions of digitalization in gynecology and obstetrics in Germany: a survey of the commission Digital Medicine of the German Society for Gynecology and Obstetrics
Authors: Pfob André , Hillen Christoph , Seitz Katharina , Griewing Sebastian , Becker Sven , Bayer Christian , Wagner Uwe , Fasching Peter , Wallwiener Markus ,   For the Kommission Digitale Medizin, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Gebursthilfe (DGGG)
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Digitalization plays a critical role and is beginning to impact every part of the patient journey, from drug discovery and data collection to treatment and patient-reported outcomes. We aimed to evaluate the status quo and future directions of digital medicine in the specialty of gynecology and obstetrics in Germany.

Methods
An anonymous questionnaire was distributed via the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics newsletter in December 2022. The questionnaire covered the domains baseline demographic information, telemedicine, digital health applications (DIGAs), and future expectations.

Results
In all, 91 participants completed the survey. Median age was 34 years; 67.4% (60 of 89) were female and 32.6% (29 of 89) were male. About 10% (9 of 88) have prescribed DIGAs to date and 14% (12 of 86) offer telemedical appointments. Among those who do not use digital medicine, very few plan to do so in the near future. Reasons include missing software interfaces, lack of time to try out new things, lack of knowledge, lack of monetary compensation (66.3%), and employee concerns. A majority agreed that digitalization will help to save time and improve patient care and that intelligent algorithms will aid clinicians in providing patient care to women.

Conclusions
The status quo and future directions of digital medicine in gynecology and obstetrics in Germany are characterized by contradicting expectations regarding the benefits of digital medicine and its actual implementation in clinical routine. This represents an important call to action to meet the requirements of modern patient care.
Surgery for patients with facial palsy in Germany: a diagnosis-related-groups-based nationwide analysis, 2005–2019
Authors: Seeberger Susanna , Schlattmann Peter , Guntinas-Lichius Orlando 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Chronic flaccid paralysis of the facial nerve leads to permanent dysfunction of eye closure, problems with drinking and eating, and lack of emotional expression. Modern facial surgery can help those affected. An analysis of the development of facial surgery in Germany over time is presented.

Methods
Nation-wide population-baes diagnosis-related case group (DRG) data of virtually all inpatients who underwent facial surgery for facial palsy between 2005 and 2019 were included. Binomial regression models for changes in surgery rates over time were calculated in relation to gender and treating specialty.

Results
Between 2005 and 2019, there were 28,622 inpatient stays for facial surgery. Most surgeries were provided by otolaryngology (39%) and ophthalmology or dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery (20% each). The mean treatment rate was 2.33 ± 0.53 surgeries per 100,000 person-years. The surgery rate was highest for nerve reconstruction surgery (0.46 ± 0.15) and static sling surgery (0.44 ± 0.0.16). The greatest increase was seen in men for nerve surgery (3.9-fold; relative risk [RR] = 3.68; confidence interval [CI] = 3.18–4.26) and sling surgery (5.0-fold; RR = 4.25; CI = 3.38–5.33).

Conclusions
While nerve and sling surgery increased significantly over time, this was less true or not true at all for surgical techniques. Surgical rates and their change over time were greater in men, without explanation from the data.
The benefit of knowledge: postural response modulation by foreknowledge of equilibrium perturbation in an upper limb task
Authors: Castellote Juan M. , Kofler Markus , Mayr Andreas 
Published: September 2023

AbstractFor whole-body sway patterns, a compound motor response following an external stimulus may comprise reflexes, postural adjustments (anticipatory or compensatory), and voluntary muscular activity. Responses to equilibrium destabilization may depend on both motor set and a subject`s expectation of the disturbing stimulus. To disentangle these influences on lower limb responses, we studied a model in which subjects (n = 14) were suspended in the air, without foot support, and performed a fast unilateral wrist extension (WE) in response to a passive knee flexion (KF) delivered by a robot. To characterize the responses, electromyographic activity of rectus femoris and reactive leg torque was obtained bilaterally in a series of trials, with or without the requirement of WE (motor set), and/or beforehand information about the upcoming velocity of KF (subject`s expectation). Some fast-velocity trials resulted in StartReact responses, which were used to subclassify leg responses. When subjects were uninformed about the upcoming KF, large rectus femoris responses concurred with a postural reaction in conditions without motor task, and with both postural reaction and postural adjustment when WE was required. WE in response to a low-volume acoustic signal elicited no postural adjustments. When subjects were informed about KF velocity and had to perform WE, large rectus femoris responses corresponded to anticipatory postural adjustment rather than postural reaction. In conclusion, when subjects are suspended in the air and have to respond with WE, the prepared motor set includes anticipatory postural adjustments if KF velocity is known, and additional postural reactions if KF velocity is unknown.
Herpes zoster is not associated with subsequent gastrointestinal cancer: data from over 200,000 outpatients in Germany
Authors: Leyh Catherine , Roderburg Christoph , Luedde Tom , Loosen Sven H. , Kostev Karel 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are an increasing global health challenge. Viral diseases play an important role in the development of GI cancers. For example, Epstein-Barr virus, which belongs to the human herpesvirus family, is a well-recognized risk factor for the development of gastric cancer. The purpose of this study was to investigate a possible association between varicella-zoster virus reactivation and subsequent diagnosis of GI cancer.

Methods
In this retrospective cohort study, a total of 103,123 patients with a first diagnosis of herpes zoster (HZ) between 2005 and 2021 were propensity score matched to a cohort of 103,123 patients without HZ. Patient data was extracted from the Disease Analyzer database (IQVIA). The incidence of GI cancer was compared as a function of HZ. Cox regression analysis was used to examine the association between HZ and GI cancer.

Results
Over a follow-up period of up to 10 years, the incidence of GI cancer did not differ between the two cohorts (HZ cohort 2.26 cases per 1000 patient-years vs. non-HZ cohort 2.37 cases per 1000 patient-years, p = 0.548). In regression analysis, HZ was not associated with an increased risk of developing GI cancer (HR: 0.97; 95% CI 0.89–1.05). Furthermore, no significant effect of the presence of HZ on the incidence of different GI cancer entities was found.

Conclusion
In this retrospective cohort study consisting of well-matched patients, we observed no significant association between a HZ infection and the development of GI cancer during a long-term follow-up.
CYP26B1-related disorder: expanding the ends of the spectrum through clinical and molecular evidence
Authors: Silveira Karina C. , Fonseca Inara Chacon , Oborn Connor , Wengryn Parker , Ghafoor Saima , Beke Alexander , Dreseris Ema S. , Wong Cassandra , Iacovone Aline , Soltys Carrie-Lynn , Babul-Hirji Riyana , Artigalas Osvaldo , Antolini-Tavares Arthur , Gingras Anne-Claude , Campos Eric , Cavalcanti Denise P. , Kannu Peter 
Published: September 2023

AbstractCYP26B1 metabolizes retinoic acid in the developing embryo to regulate its levels. A limited number of individuals with pathogenic variants in CYP26B1 have been documented with a varied phenotypic spectrum, spanning from a severe manifestation involving skull anomalies, craniosynostosis, encephalocele, radio-humeral fusion, oligodactyly, and a narrow thorax, to a milder presentation characterized by craniosynostosis, restricted radio-humeral joint mobility, hearing loss, and intellectual disability. Here, we report two families with CYP26B1-related phenotypes and describe the data obtained from functional studies of the variants. Exome and Sanger sequencing were used for variant identification in family 1 and family 2, respectively. Family 1 reflects a mild phenotype, which includes craniofacial dysmorphism with brachycephaly (without craniosynostosis), arachnodactyly, reduced radioulnar joint movement, conductive hearing loss, learning disability—and compound heterozygous CYP26B1 variants: (p.[(Pro118Leu)];[(Arg234Gln)]) were found. In family 2, a stillborn fetus presented a lethal phenotype with spina bifida occulta, hydrocephalus, poor skeletal mineralization, synostosis, limb defects, and a synonymous homozygous variant in CYP26B1: c.1083C > A. A minigene assay revealed that the synonymous variant created a new splice site, removing part of exon 5 (p.Val361_Asp382del). Enzymatic activity was assessed using a luciferase assay, demonstrating a notable reduction in exogenous retinoic acid metabolism for the variant p.Val361_Asp382del. (~ 3.5 × decrease compared to wild-type); comparatively, the variants p.(Pro118Leu) and p.(Arg234Gln) demonstrated a partial loss of metabolism (1.7× and 2.3× reduction, respectively). A proximity-dependent biotin identification assay reaffirmed previously reported ER-resident protein interactions. Additional work into these interactions is critical to determine if CYP26B1 is involved with other biological events on the ER. Immunofluorescence assay suggests that mutant CYP26B1 is still localized in the endoplasmic reticulum. These results indicate that novel pathogenic variants in CYP26B1 result in varying levels of enzymatic activity that impact retinoic acid metabolism and relate to the distinct phenotypes observed.
A SACS deletion variant in Great Pyrenees dogs causes autosomal recessive neuronal degeneration
Authors: Ekenstedt Kari J. , Minor Katie M. , Shelton G. Diane , Hammond James J. , Miller Andrew D. , Taylor Susan M. , Huang Yanyun , Mickelson James R. 
Published: September 2023

AbstractARSACS (autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay) is a human neurological disorder characterized by progressive cerebellar ataxia and peripheral neuropathy. A recently recognized disorder in Great Pyrenees dogs is similarly characterized by widespread central nervous system degeneration leading to progressive cerebellar ataxia and spasticity, combined with peripheral neuropathy. Onset of clinical signs occurred in puppies as young as 4 months of age, with slow progression over several years. A multi-generation pedigree suggested an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. Histopathology revealed consistent cerebellar Purkinje cell degeneration, neuronal degeneration in brainstem nuclei, widespread spinal cord white matter degeneration, ganglion cell degeneration, inappropriately thin myelin sheaths or fully demyelinated peripheral nerve fibers, and normal or only mild patterns of denervation atrophy in skeletal muscles. Genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotype data was collected from 6 cases and 26 controls, where homozygosity mapping identified a 3.3 Mb region on CFA25 in which all cases were homozygous and all controls were either heterozygous or homozygous for alternate haplotypes. This region tagged the SACS gene where variants are known to cause ARSACS. Sanger sequencing of SACS in affected dogs identified a 4 bp deletion that causes a frame shift and truncates 343 amino acids from the C terminus of the encoded sacsin protein (p.Val4244AlafsTer32). Our clinical and histopathological descriptions of this canine disorder contribute to the description of human ARSACS and represents the first naturally occurring large animal model of this disorder.
Approaching flexible production with planning methods
Authors: De Bortoli Marco , Kohout Peter , Lampel Dominik , Fürbaß Leo , Masiero Anna , Moser Stefan , Nagele Martin , Frick Tobias , Knoflach Lukas , Steinbauer-Wagner Gerald 
Published: September 2023

AbstractFlexible production systems are becoming more and more important for the industry. Higher requirements for flexibility in the production process demand further improvements in regards to flexible automation. In this perspective, the RoboCup Logistics League competition was designed to provide a testbed for dynamic production domains. The related challenges range from robust navigation over manipulation to efficient production scheduling. In this paper, we provide an update on how the team GRIPS approches the flexible production challenge using modern planning methods. This includes a new long-term planning and scheduling strategy as well as a hierarchical structure which further develops such plans into Behavior Trees.
Influence of decision-making algorithms on the diagnostic accuracy using the current classification of periodontal diseases—a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bumm Caspar Victor , Wölfle Uta Christine , Keßler Andreas , Werner Nils , Folwaczny Matthias 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Objectives
To examine the influence of the decision-making algorithms published by Tonetti and Sanz in 2019 on the diagnostic accuracy in two differently experienced groups of dental students using the current classification of periodontal diseases.

Materials and methods
Eighty-three students of two different clinical experience levels were randomly allocated to control and study group, receiving the staging and grading matrix, resulting in four subgroups. All diagnosed two patient cases with corresponding periodontal charts, panoramic radiographs, and intraoral photographs. Both presented severe periodontal disease (stage III, grade C) but considerably differed in complexity and phenotype according to the current classification of periodontal diseases. Controls received the staging and grading matrix published within the classification, while study groups were additionally provided with decision-trees published by Tonetti and Sanz. Obtained data was analyzed using chi-square test, Spearman’s rank correlation, and logistic regression.

Results
Using the algorithms significantly enhanced the diagnostic accuracy in staging (p = 0.001*, OR = 4.425) and grading (p < 0.001**, OR = 30.303) regardless of the clinical experience. In addition, even compared to the more experienced control, less experienced students using algorithms showed significantly higher accuracy in grading (p = 0.020*). No influence on the criteria extent could be observed comparing study groups to controls.

Conclusion
The decision-making algorithms may enhance diagnostic accuracy in dental students using the current classification of periodontal diseases.

Clinical relevance
The investigated decision-making algorithms significantly increased the diagnostic accuracy of differently experienced under graduated dental students and might be beneficial in periodontal education.