bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Chilean Wildfires: Probabilistic Prediction, Emergency Response, and Public Communication
Authors: Dacre H. F. , Crawford B. R. , Charlton-Perez A. J. , Lopez-Saldana G. , Griffiths G. H. , Veloso J. Vicencio 
Published: June 2018

AbstractThe 2016/17 wildfire season in Chile was the worst on record, burning more than 600,000 ha. While wildfires are an important natural process in some areas of Chile, supporting its diverse ecosystems, wildfires are also one of the biggest threats to Chile’s unique biodiversity and its timber and wine industries. They also pose a danger to human life and property because of the sharp wildland–urban interface that exists in many Chilean towns and cities. Wildfires are, however, difficult to predict because of the combination of physical (meteorology, vegetation, and fuel condition) and human (population density and awareness level) factors. Most Chilean wildfires are started because of accidental ignition by humans. This accidental ignition could be minimized if an effective wildfire warning system alerted the population to the heightened danger of wildfires in certain locations and meteorological conditions. Here, we demonstrate the design of a novel probabilistic wildfire prediction system. The system uses ensemble forecast meteorological data together with a long time series of fire products derived from Earth observation to predict not only fire occurrence but also how intense wildfires could be. The system provides wildfire risk estimation and associated uncertainty for up to six days in advance and communicates it to a variety of end users. The advantage of this probabilistic wildfire warning system over deterministic systems is that it allows users to assess the confidence of a forecast and thus make more informed decisions regarding resource allocation and forest management. The approach used in this study could easily be adapted to communicate other probabilistic forecasts of natural hazards.
Using a Variability Factor to Account for Cloud Microphysical Inhomogeneity in Mesoscale Models
Authors: Kogan Yefim 
Published: May 2018

Abstract
Different formulations of the joint probability distribution function (JPDF) based on large-eddy simulation (LES) studies of shallow cumulus and cumulus congestus clouds were evaluated. It was shown that inhomogeneity in both cloud types can be quantified by their respective JPDFs calculated using datasets from the entire simulation time period (“generic” JPDFs). The generic JPDF can be a priori integrated and yield a one-dimensional variability factor (V factor) specific for each cloud type. A quite accurate approximation of V factors by an analytical function in the form of a third-order polynomial was obtained and can be easily implemented in mesoscale models. The effect on precipitation of conversion rates modified by V factors was also evaluated in LES sensitivity studies of shallow cumulus (Cu) and congestus Cu clouds. The surface precipitation increased significantly when V factors were taken into account. The sensitivity experiments revealed that most of the increase resulted from the modified autoconversion process. The effect of accretion rates modified by V factors was much less significant, primarily because of the nearly linear dependence of accretion on its parameters. This fact shows the importance of the most accurate formulation of the autoconversion process.
Clinically inappropriate post hoc exclusion of study participants from test accuracy calculations: the ROMA score, an example from a recent NICE diagnostic assessment
Authors: Lang Shona , Armstrong Nigel , Deshpande Sohan , Ramaekers Bram , Grimm Sabine , de Kock Shelley , Kleijnen Jos , Westwood Marie 
Published: May 2018

Objective To explore how the definition of the target condition and post hoc exclusion of participants can limit the usefulness of diagnostic accuracy studies. Methods We used data from a systematic review, conducted for a NICE diagnostic assessment of risk scores to inform secondary care decisions about specialist referral for women with suspected ovarian cancer, to explore how the definition of the target condition and post hoc exclusion of participants can limit the usefulness of diagnostic accuracy studies to inform clinical practice. Results Fourteen of the studies evaluated the ROMA score, nine used Abbott ARCHITECT tumour marker assays, five used Roche Elecsys. The summary sensitivity estimate (Abbott ARCHITECT) was highest, 95.1% (95% CI: 92.4 to 97.1%), where analyses excluded participants with borderline tumours or malignancies other than epithelial ovarian cancer and lowest, 75.0% (95% CI: 60.4 to 86.4%), where all participants were included. Results were similar for Roche Elecsys tumour marker assays. Although the number of patients involved was small, data from studies that reported diagnostic accuracy for both the whole study population and with post hoc exclusion of those with borderline or non-epithelial malignancies suggested that patients with borderline or malignancies other than epithelial ovarian cancer accounts for between 50 and 85% of false-negative ROMA scores. Conclusions Our results illustrate the potential consequences of inappropriate population selection in diagnostic studies; women with non-epithelial ovarian cancers or non-ovarian primaries, and those borderline tumours may be disproportionately represented among those with false negative, ‘low risk’ ROMA scores. These observations highlight the importance of giving careful consideration to how the target condition has been defined when assessing whether the diagnostic accuracy estimates reported in clinical studies will translate into clinical utility in real-world settings.
Extraction, Revolution, Plurinationalism: Rethinking Extractivism from Bolivia
Authors: Marston Andrea , Kennemore Amy 
Published: June 2018

With the ratification of its new constitution in 2009, Bolivia was transformed into a “plurinational state” associated with ecologically oriented values, yet resource extraction has expanded ever since. Fieldwork conducted in communities in highland Bolivia shows how resource extraction sustains and is sustained by “revolutionary narratives” in which the state—led by President Evo Morales—is configured as the protagonist of the plurinational era. Examination of the challenges presented by Bolivia’s indigenous communities and mining cooperatives to this revolutionary narrative during the 2014 adoption of new mining legislation suggests that shifting critical focus away from revolutionary change toward what David Scott calls the “politics of the present” might be a more fruitful way to think about the relationship between resource extraction and Bolivia’s plurinationalism. Al ratificar su nueva constitución en 2009, Bolivia se transformó en un “estado plurinacional” asociado con valores ecológicos; sin embargo, la extracción de recursos se ha expandido desde entonces. Investigaciones llevado a cabo en comunidades de las tierras altas de Bolivia muestran cómo la extracción de recursos sostiene y se sustenta en las “narrativas revolucionarias” en las que el estado, encabezado por el presidente Evo Morales, se configura como el protagonista de la era plurinacional. Examinar como las comunidades indígenas y las cooperativas mineras de Bolivia cuestionaron esta narrativa revolucionaria durante la adopción de la nueva legislación minera en 2014 sugiere que virar el enfoque crítico desde el cambio revolucionario hacia lo que David Scott llama la “política del presente” podría ser una forma más fructífera pensar en la relación entre la extracción de recursos y el plurinacionalismo boliviano.
Cardiovascular computed tomography versus transoesophageal echocardiography after cryptogenic ischaemic stroke – a pilot study of 12 patients
Authors: Resen Mette Sørensen , Poulsen Mai Bang , Overgaard Karsten , Rasmussen Rune Skovgaard , Soja Anne Merete Boas , Nilsson Brian , Kristensen Mariana Obreja , Kruuse Christina , Ulriksen Peter Sommer 
Published: May 2018

Objective Transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is the gold standard for the detection of cardiac emboli sources in ischaemic stroke patients, but new computed tomography (CT) scanners are able to visualize the heart. This pilot study aimed to compare findings on TEE with combined cardiovascular scan and cerebral CT angiography in cryptogenic ischaemic stroke patients. Methods This pilot study enrolled patients with cryptogenic ischaemic stroke who underwent a combined cardiovascular and cerebral CT angiography scan and a TEE examination, which were interpreted in a blinded manner. Results Twelve patients with cryptogenic ischaemic stroke were included (mean age 56 years). Of these, 10 patients underwent both a combined cardiovascular and cerebral CT angiography and a TEE examination. All cardiovascular CT scans were readable at sinus rhythm. None of the simultaneous cerebral angiograms were compromised. Thrombi were not detected in any patients. Patent foramen ovale was visualized in five patients by TEE, while cardiovascular CT only identified three. Cardiovascular CT revealed in addition an X-ray negative pulmonary metastasis in one patient, aortic coarctation in another and significant coronary stenosis in four patients. Conclusion The sensitivity for detecting patent foramen ovale was considerably lower for cardiovascular CT than for TEE, however the cardiovascular CT revealed several other very important clinical findings.
Calcium silicate as a graft material for bone fractures: a systematic review
Authors: Sanmartin de Almeida Marcelo , Fernandes Gustavo Vicentis de Oliveira , de Oliveira Aline Muniz , Granjeiro José Mauro 
Published: May 2018

Objective The goal of this review was to determine whether calcium silicate (wollastonite) as a bone graft material is a viable alternative to autogenous bone or whether the evidence base for its use is weak. Methods In this systematic review, electronic databases (MEDLINE/PubMed and BVS) were searched for relevant articles in indexed journals. Articles published in a 10-year period were identified (n = 48). After initial selection, 17 articles were assessed for eligibility; subsequently, seven articles were excluded and 10 articles were included. Results Among the studies included, 20% emphasized the importance of randomization, which adds reliability to the study, minimizing the risk of bias. High variability was observed in the material used, such as additives, amounts, dosage, and chemical alterations, rendering direct comparison among these studies impossible. The experimental periods varied considerably; one of the studies did not include statistical analysis, weakening the evaluation. Nonetheless, the true potential of wollastonite as a graft material conducive to new bone formation was reported in all studies. Conclusion The results support the use of wollastonite as a bone graft material. The initial research question was answered despite the significant variability observed among these preclinical studies, which hindered the precision of this analysis.
Impact of tip–apex distance and femoral head lag screw position on treatment outcomes of unstable intertrochanteric fractures using cephalomedullary nails
Authors: Lee Cheng-Hung , Su Kuo-Chih , Chen Kun-Hui , Pan Chien-Chou , Wu Yun-Che 
Published: May 2018

Background Cephalomedullary nails are frequently used in unstable intertrochanteric fractures. The implant position is an important factor for surgical success. Thus, in the present study, finite element analysis methods were used to investigate the biomechanical behavior of five different cephalomedullary nail positions in unstable intertrochanteric fractures. Methods Five different cephalomedullary nail implant positions were investigated. The observed indicators were the maximum displacement of the lag screw, the stress on the intertrochanteric fracture with involvement of the posteromedial cortex, and the tip–apex distance. Results The smallest lag screw displacement was achieved when the implant was closer to the inferior femoral head. Lower stress was placed on the posteromedial cortex when the implant was positioned closer to the inferior femoral head. However, the tip–apex distance increased when the lag screw was positioned more inferiorly. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that positioning the lag screw closer to the inferior aspect of the femoral head can reduce stress on the posteromedial cortex and deformation of the implant in unstable intertrochanteric fractures. These findings provide a biomechanical basis for selection of the cephalomedullary nail implantation site. Level of evidence III.
The experience of older adults with anxiety and depression living in the community: Aging, occupation and mental wellbeing
Authors: Mulholland Fiona , Jackson Jeanne 
Published: May 2018

Introduction As life expectancy grows so does the need for mental health services for older people. Occupational science and therapy literature demonstrates how occupation supports older adults' wellbeing, but there has been little research into the relationship between occupation and health for those with anxiety and depression. The aim of this study was to understand the occupational experience of Irish older adults with anxiety and depression so as to inform therapeutic programmes. Method A qualitative research design with a phenomenological framework was adopted. A total of five community-dwelling people with diagnoses of anxiety and/or depression were purposively selected to participate in semi-structured interviews. The interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings The themes which emerged – ‘Occupation as a marker for wellness’ and ‘Sustaining a sense of occupational identity’ – support existing literature and reveal new information about interactions between occupational identity crisis and mental health. Personally meaningful occupation which connects a person to their life worlds and sense of self has the potential to consolidate recovery from anxiety and depression. Conclusion The study contributes to knowledge on how occupation supports an older person's wellbeing and identity in the face of life changes, and has implications for occupational therapists working with older adults.
The relationship between time spent in volunteering activities and quality of life in adults over the age of 50 years: A systematic review
Authors: Milbourn Benjamin , Saraswati Jaya , Buchanan Angus 
Published: May 2018

Introduction Increased attention has focused on the importance of time spent by ageing adults in volunteering. The aim of this systematic review was to analyse literature exploring the relationship between time spent volunteering and quality of life for adults over the age of 50 years. Method Electronic searches of nine databases located relevant articles involving adults over the age of 50 in volunteering activities that included psychological, physical and social quality of life domains. The quality of the selected articles was assessed and data extracted using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Results Of the 65 articles retrieved, 22 were reviewed and eight included in the final review. Studies included one randomised controlled trial, one cross-sectional and six longitudinal studies. Levels of time spent volunteering by participants within the studies varied considerably. Articles retrieved reported positive quality of life outcomes including increases in life satisfaction, self-esteem and social support and a slowed functional decline. Conclusion Volunteering is identified as an important occupation for adults over the age of 50, although the relationship between time spent volunteering and the impact on quality of life outcomes is still not fully understood. Future research is required to better understand the impact of time spent volunteering on quality of life.
National Institutes of Health Funding for Tobacco Control: 2006 and 2016
Authors: Merianos Ashley L. , Gordon Judith S. , Wood Kelsi J. , Mahabee-Gittens E. Melinda 
Published: May 2018

Purpose: The study objective was to describe and compare changes in newly funded National Institutes of Health (NIH) tobacco-related awards between fiscal year (FY) 2006 and FY2016. Design: Secondary analysis of NIH data. Setting: National Institutes of Health Research Portfolio Online Reporting Tool database was used. Subjects: National Institutes of Health tobacco-related awards newly funded during FY2006 and FY2016. Measures: Search terms included tobacco, smoking, nicotine, secondhand smoke, and e-cigarettes. Grants and funding amounts were retrieved. Analysis: We calculated frequency distributions to determine the number and percentage of total NIH grants funded overall and by specific institute, and inflation-adjusted total and median funding amounts. We computed percentage differences in number of new grants, funding amounts, and percentage of funding allocated overall, and by institute. Results: There was a 187% increase in the percentage of total NIH funding allocated to new tobacco-related awards from 0.09% in FY2006 to 0.25% in FY2016. Total number of awards increased by 67% in FY2016 (n = 144; $56 015 931) compared to FY2006 (n = 86; $22 076 987), and there was a 154% increase in inflation-adjusted total funding for tobacco control. The top funding institutes were National Institute on Drug Abuse and National Cancer Institute; National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism was third in FY2006; and National, Heart, Lung and Blood Institute in FY2016. Research grants were the most frequently funded. Smoking cessation was a common topic area and increased by 64%. Conclusion: NIH funding is critical for advancing the science of nicotine and tobacco research.
Revisiting the Phadia/EliA cut-off values for anticardiolipin and anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies: a systematic evaluation according to the guidelines
Authors: Bor M V , Jacobsen I-L Søtang , Gram J B , Sidelmann J J 
Published: May 2018

Background Phadia/EliA fluorescence enzyme immunoassays are widely used automated assays for anticardiolipin (aCL) and anti-β2-glycoprotein I (aβ2GPI) antibodies. To date, cut-off values for these assays have not been evaluated systematically and the evidence behind manufacturer’s recommended cut-off values is not clear. Objective To determine Phadia/EliA cut-off values for antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) according to the procedures suggested by guidelines. Methods A total of 266 blood donors (135 females and 131 males) were included. The pre-handling and analysis of the samples were performed according to the International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis (ISTH) guideline for solid phase aPL assays. Cut-off values and corresponding 90% confidence intervals (CI) for each antibody were established and outliers were handled according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guideline for reference intervals. Samples from 377 consecutive patients, referred to our thrombophilia center with evidence of thrombosis or pregnancy morbidity were included for aPL testing. Results The in-house 99th (97.5th) percentile cut-off values were 11 (8.7), 12 (6.9) 8.5 (5.0) AU/mL for aβ2GPI IgG, IgM and IgA, and 21 (13) GPL-U/mL and 41 (25) MPL-U/mL for aCL IgG and IgM, respectively. The prevalence of positive results (%) defined by these cut-off values in patients with evidence of thrombosis or pregnancy morbidity was 9.5 (12.2), 1.6 (2.9), and 7.0 (9.9), and 0.8 (3.8) for aβ2GPI IgG, IgM, and aCL IgG and IgM respectively. The use of in-house 99th percentile cut-off values compared to the manufacturer suggested cut-off values resulted in 1 and 39 fewer samples for aβ2GPI and aCL to be classified as positive for aPL, respectively. Conclusions We present Phadia/EliA cut-off values with 90% CI for aPL determined systematically according to the ISTH and CLSI guidelines. These values are different from values previously determined, suggesting variation of aPLs in different populations. Our findings indicate the need for each laboratory to determine/validate assay specific cut-off values for aPL.
New minimum healthy living budget standards for low-paid and unemployed Australians
Authors: Saunders Peter , Bedford Megan 
Published: June 2018

AbstractA budget standard indicates how much a particular family living in a particular place at a particular time needs in order to achieve a particular standard of living. This article presents new estimates that build on the earlier budget standards produced by the Social Policy Research Centre in the 1990s. The new budgets incorporate increases in consumer prices and community standards and reflect changes in item availability, retail practices and shopping behaviour, as well as improved research methods, 20 years of use and experience, and new data. They are designed to achieve a minimum income for healthy living standard and apply to families with a breadwinner who is either in full-time work and receiving the minimum wage, or unemployed and receiving Newstart Allowance. The estimates suggest that although the minimum wage is adequate for single people, it is not adequate to meet the needs of many couple families with and without children, while Newstart Allowance does not provide an adequate safety net for the unemployed, whatever their family status.
Preliminary appraisal of the reliability and validity of the Colorado State University Feline Acute Pain Scale
Authors: Shipley Hilary , Guedes Alonso , Graham Lynelle , Goudie-DeAngelis Elizabeth , Wendt-Hornickle Erin 
Published: May 2018

Objectives The objective of this study was to determine the inter-rater reliability and convergent validity of the Colorado State University Feline Acute Pain Scale (CSU-FAPS) in a preliminary appraisal of its performance in a clinical teaching setting. Methods Sixty-eight female cats were assessed for pain after ovariohysterectomy. A cohort of 21 cats was examined independently by four raters (two board-certified anesthesiologists and two anesthesia residents) with the CSU-FAPS, and intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to determine inter-rater reliability. Weighted Cohen’s kappa was used to determine inter-rater reliability centered on the ‘need to reassess analgesic plan’ (dichotomous scale). A separate cohort of 47 cats was evaluated independently by two raters (one board-certified anesthesiologist and one veterinary small animal rotating intern) using the CSU-FAPS and the Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale (CMPS-Feline), and Spearman rank-order correlation was determined to assess convergent validity. Reliability was interpreted using Altman’s classification as very good, good, moderate, fair and poor. Validity was considered adequate if correlation coefficients were between 0.4 and 0.8. Results The ICC was 0.61 for anesthesiologists and 0.67 for residents, indicating good reliability. Weighted Cohen’s kappa was 0.79 for anesthesiologists and 0.44 for residents, indicating moderate to good reliability. The Spearman rank correlation indicated a statistically significant ( P = 0.0003) positive correlation (0.31; 95% confidence interval 0.14–0.46) between the CSU-FAPS and the CMPS-Feline. Conclusions and relevance The CSU-FAPS showed moderate-to-good inter-rater reliability when used by veterinarians to assess pain level or need to reassess analgesic plan after ovariohysterectomy in cats. The validity fell short of current guidelines for correlation coefficients and further refinement and testing are warranted to improve its performance.