bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Increased Quasi Stationarity and Persistence of Winter Ural Blocking and Eurasian Extreme Cold Events in Response to Arctic Warming. Part II: A Theoretical Explanation
Authors: Luo Dehai , Yao Yao , Dai Aiguo , Simmonds Ian , Zhong Linhao 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
In Part I of this study, it was shown that the Eurasian cold anomalies related to Arctic warming depend strongly on the quasi stationarity and persistence of the Ural blocking (UB). The analysis here revealed that under weak mean westerly wind (MWW) and vertical shear (VS) (quasi barotropic) conditions with weak synoptic-scale eddies and a large planetary wave anomaly, the growth of UB is slow and its amplitude is small. For this case, a quasi-stationary and persistent UB is seen. However, under strong MWW and VS (quasi baroclinic) conditions, synoptic-scale eddies are stronger and the growth of UB is rapid; the resulting UB is less persistent and has large amplitude. In this case, a marked retrogression of the UB is observed.
The dynamical mechanism behind the dependence of the movement and persistence of UB upon the background conditions is further examined using a nonlinear multiscale model. The results show that when the blocking has large amplitude under quasi-baroclinic conditions, the blocking-induced westward displacement greatly exceeds the strong mean zonal-wind-induced eastward movement and hence generates a marked retrogression of the blocking. By contrast, under quasi-barotropic conditions because the UB amplitude is relatively small the blocking-induced westward movement is less distinct, giving rise to a quasi-stationary and persistent blocking. It is further shown that the strong mid–high-latitude North Atlantic mean zonal wind is the quasi-barotropic condition that suppresses UB’s retrogression and thus is conducive to the quasi stationarity and persistence of the UB. The model results show that the blocking duration is longer when the mean zonal wind in the blocking region or eddy strength is weaker.
An Improved Dual-Polarization Radar Rainfall Algorithm (DROPS2.0): Application in NASA IFloodS Field Campaign
Authors: Chen Haonan , Chandrasekar V. , Bechini Renzo 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Compared to traditional single-polarization radar, dual-polarization radar has a number of advantages for quantitative precipitation estimation because more information about the drop size distribution and hydrometeor type can be gleaned. In this paper, an improved dual-polarization rainfall methodology is proposed, which is driven by a region-based hydrometeor classification mechanism. The objective of this study is to incorporate the spatial coherence and self-aggregation of dual-polarization observables in hydrometeor classification and to produce robust rainfall estimates for operational applications. The S-band dual-polarization data collected from the NASA Polarimetric (NPOL) radar during the GPM Iowa Flood Studies (IFloodS) ground validation field campaign are used to demonstrate and evaluate the proposed rainfall algorithm. Results show that the improved rainfall method provides better performance than a few single- and dual-polarization algorithms in previous studies. This paper also investigates the impact of radar beam broadening on various rainfall algorithms. It is found that the radar-based rainfall products are less correlated with ground disdrometer measurements as the distance from the radar increases.
Recent Evidence of Large-Scale Receding Snow Water Equivalents in the European Alps
Authors: Marty Christoph , Tilg Anna-Maria , Jonas Tobias 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Snow plays a critical role in the water cycle of many mountain regions and heavily populated areas downstream. In this study, changes of snow water equivalent (SWE) time series from long-term stations in five Alpine countries are analyzed. The sites are located between 500 and 3000 m above mean sea level, and the analysis is mainly based on measurement series from 1 February (winter) and 1 April (spring). The investigation was performed over different time periods, including the last six decades. The large majority of the SWE time series demonstrate a reduction in snow mass, which is more pronounced for spring than for winter. The observed SWE decrease is independent of latitude or longitude, despite the different climate regions in the Alpine domain. In contrast to measurement series from other mountain ranges, even the highest sites revealed a decline in spring SWE. A comparison with a 100-yr mass balance series from a glacier in the central Alps demonstrates that the peak SWEs have been on a record-low level since around the beginning of the twenty-first century at high Alpine sites. In the long term, clearly increasing temperatures and a coincident weak reduction in precipitation are the main drivers for the pronounced snow mass loss in the past.
Diurnal Variations in Severe Weather Forecast Parameters of Rapid Update Cycle-2 Tornado Proximity Environments
Authors: Reames Larissa J. 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Nocturnal tornadoes are disproportionately dangerous compared with their daytime counterparts; thus, it is imperative to improve the forecasting of these tornadoes. This study uses a large (194 cases) and geographically expansive dataset of Rapid Update Cycle tornado proximity (within 80 km of initial tornado touchdown) soundings from 2003 to 2011 to investigate tornado forecast parameter differences between F1–F2 (weak) and F3+ (strong) nocturnal and daytime tornadoes. The findings suggest that, when considered alone, 0–1- and 0–3-km wind shears show the highest skill in distinguishing environments associated with weak and strong tornadoes, with 0–1-km shear being most effective at night and 0–3-km shear showing the most skill during the day. The results also indicate that combining most unstable CAPE with 0–3-km shear and 0–1-km shear with 3–9-km shear resulted in the most skillful daytime and nighttime forecasts, respectively.
Probability Optimal Supersaturated Designs
Authors: Sarkar Angshuman 
Published: January 2017

Abstract: In this paper we have argued that the probability of correct searching is a more acceptable criterion for comparing two competitive supersaturated designs. We have derived an expression for the maximum value of the probability of correct searching for a supersaturated design for a given run size, assuming that there is only one active factor present in the model. We have also provided a result pertaining to the maximum number of factors that can be accommodated with a given value of probability of correct searching and with a particular run size. Finally an algorithm for constructing probability optimal supersaturated designs is presented. The performance of the designs constructed are also evaluated, in terms of the probability of correct search in stituations involving the presence of two active factors, using a simulation study. AMS (2000) Subject Classification: 62K05, 62K15.
Trend‐Free Nested Balanced Incomplete Block Designs and Designs for Diallel Cross Experiments
Authors: Lal Kishan , Prasad Rajender , Gupta V. K. 
Published: January 2017

Abstract: Nested balanced incomplete block (NBIB) designs are useful when the experiments are conducted to deal with experimental situations when one nuisance factor is nested within the blocking factor. Similar to block designs, trend may exist in experimental units within sub‐blocks or within blocks in NBIB designs over time or space. A necessary and sufficient condition, for a nested block design to be trend‐free at sub‐block level, is derived. Families and catalogues of NBIB designs that can be converted into trend‐free NBIB designs at sub‐block and block levels have been obtained. A NBIB design with sub‐block size 2 has a one to one correspondence with designs for diallel crosses experiments. Therefore, optimal block designs for dialled cross experiments have been identified to check if these can be converted in to trend‐free optimal block designs for diallel cross experiments. A catalogue of such designs is also obtained. Trend‐free design is illustrated with example for a NBIB design and a design for diallel crosses experiments. AMS (2000) Subject Classification: 62K05, 62K10.
Trust and the Compliance–Reliance Paradigm: The Effects of Risk, Error Bias, and Reliability on Trust and Dependence
Authors: Chancey Eric T. , Bliss James P. , Yamani Yusuke , Handley Holly A. H. 
Published: January 2017

Objective: This study provides a theoretical link between trust and the compliance–reliance paradigm. We propose that for trust mediation to occur, the operator must be presented with a salient choice, and there must be an element of risk for dependence. Background: Research suggests that false alarms and misses affect dependence via two independent processes, hypothesized as trust in signals and trust in nonsignals. These two trust types manifest in categorically different behaviors: compliance and reliance. Method: Eighty-eight participants completed a primary flight task and a secondary signaling system task. Participants evaluated their trust according to the informational bases of trust: performance, process, and purpose. Participants were in a high- or low-risk group. Signaling systems varied by reliability (90%, 60%) within subjects and error bias (false alarm prone, miss prone) between subjects. Results: False-alarm rate affected compliance but not reliance. Miss rate affected reliance but not compliance. Mediation analyses indicated that trust mediated the relationship between false-alarm rate and compliance. Bayesian mediation analyses favored evidence indicating trust did not mediate miss rate and reliance. Conditional indirect effects indicated that factors of trust mediated the relationship between false-alarm rate and compliance (i.e., purpose) and reliance (i.e., process) but only in the high-risk group. Conclusion: The compliance–reliance paradigm is not the reflection of two types of trust. Application: This research could be used to update training and design recommendations that are based upon the assumption that trust causes operator responses regardless of error bias.
Pilot Response in Combined Control Tasks
Authors: Bergeron Hugh P. 
Published: January 2017

Pilot response in a multi-task simulation, which consisted of a primary control task combined with one or two secondary or side control tasks, was investigated. A general description of the response characteristics of each of these tasks was obtained and this information was used to determine the work-load requirements of the tasks. Two different control tasks were used as the primary control task, either a fixed-base simulation of a lunar letdown or a simplified multi-loop tracking task which was similar to the end portion of the lunar letdown. The simplified tracking task was used in lieu of the more complicated lunar letdown because it could be represented and reproduced analytically. The secondary or side tasks consisted of a system failures task and a motor response task. The system failures task was incorporated from those systems present in a vehicle known as the Mercury Procedures Trainer. The motor response task was similar to that presented by the late Dr. Fitts of the University of Michigan. The task consisted of using a pencil-like device to make impacts on two separated, restricted columns. An evaluation of the pilot's capability in controlling the multi-task simulation and a determination of the inter-task correlation was made. It was shown that either of the two side tasks produced similar effects on the primary task. Quality measurements were made of all three tasks in all possible combinations. The degradation of each, when in the combined task tests, was then correlated to the other task(s) of the same test. A simple relationship was found by which one could predict the time required of a human operator to perform the particular task(s) in question. This relationship could be used to determine the workloading qualities of the tasks when performed either alone or combined. An analytical representation for the degraded pilot response in the multi-loop tracking task was also obtained.
Child Labor and Musculoskeletal Disorders: The Pelotas (Brazil) Epidemiological Survey
Authors: Fassa Anaclaudia Gastal , Facchini Luiz Augusto , Dall'Agnol Marinel Mór , Christiani David C. 
Published: January 2017

Objectives. This article describes the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in several anatomic sites in children and teens, and investigates, while adjusting for potential confounders, the association between musculoskeletal pain and back pain and the following: age, gender, sports practice, use of computer/video games/television, school attendance, intensity of involvement in household domestic activities, care of other children, care of sick/elderly family members, work activities, and workloads. Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional study interviewing 3,269 children aged 10–17 years in the low-income areas of Pelotas, Brazil. Results. The prevalence of pain in the neck, knee, wrist or hands, and upper back exceeded 15%. Workers in manufacturing had a significantly increased risk for musculoskeletal pain (prevalence ratio [PR]=1.31) and for back pain (PR=1.69), while workers in domestic service had 17% more musculoskeletal pain and 23% more back pain than nonworkers. Awkward posture (PR=1.15) and heavy physical work (PR=1.07) were associated with musculoskeletal pain, while monotonous work (PR=1.34), awkward posture (PR=1.31), and noise (PR=1.25) were associated with back pain. Conclusions. Musculoskeletal pain is common among working children and teens. Knowledge of occupational risk factors can support actions to restructure work conditions to reduce or eliminate childhood exposure to hazardous conditions. Our results suggest that strategies to prevent musculoskeletal disorders in child workers should be developed.
Properties and Structures of Polyethylene Terephthalate Yarns in Conventional and Simultaneous Draw-Texturing
Authors: Tucker Paul , Johnson David , Dobb Mike , Sikorski Jan 
Published: January 2017

This study was conducted on sets of yarns produced by two different texturing processes. One set was generated via conventional technology with predrawn feeder yarn, whereas the second set was produced by simultaneous drawing and twisting of an undrawn feed yarn. “Grab samples” obtained from zones throughout the processes permitted discernment, to a degree not previously reported, of intraprocess changes in yarn structural and physical attributes. To correlate changes in fine structure with specific properties of the textured yarn, comparisons of output from each of the two contrasted processes (and in some instances within each process) were obtained by the following techniques: stress-strain, density, rates of chain scission during aminolysis, wide-angle x-ray diffraction, and electron microscope studies. Details about process parameters for yarn systems are also presented, along with twist levels and twist contractions in the preheater, heater, and output zones.
Measuring Marketing Productivity: Marketers' Imperative
Authors: Mittal Sanjiv , Khandai Sujata 
Published: January 2017

The 21st century has thrown up a lot of challenges for the present day marketers. Today, marketers are faced with an imperative to make marketing accountable. This is where it becomes important to assess the productivity of marketing. Measuring the productivity of marketing is tantamount to assessing the performance of marketing which necessarily impacts upon the overall organizational performance. Marketing productivity is measured as the ratio of marketing input over output. Broadly, two measures may be used to measure the productivity of marketing. These two measures include (a) Return on Marketing Investment (ROMI), and (b) Customer Satisfaction; the latter measured in terms of increase in shareholder value. This article attempts to understand the various issues connected with measuring the productivity of marketing. It aims to identify measures which would be effective in the measurement of productivity of marketing.
Effects of amphetamine and methylphenidate on attentional performance and impulsivity in the mouse 5-Choice Serial Reaction Time Task
Authors: Caballero-Puntiverio Maitane , Fitzpatrick Ciarán Martin , Woldbye David PD , Andreasen Jesper Tobias 
Published: January 2017

Background: Few studies have investigated the effects of conventional attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication in the mouse 5-choice serial reaction time task (5-CSRTT), and rat studies have yielded inconsistent results. Objective: We aimed to examine the effects of acute methylphenidate (MPH) and amphetamine (AMPH) treatment in the mouse 5-CSRTT. Methods: Trained male C57Bl/6J mice were tested in a variable stimulus duration schedule. Effects of AMPH (0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg) and MPH (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mg/kg) on discriminative accuracy, omissions, and premature responses were assessed. Saline treatment data determined high- and low-attentive (LA), and high- and low-impulsive (LI) subgroups according to the upper and lower 30th percentiles, respectively. Results: In the LA subgroup accuracy was improved by 0.5 mg/kg AMPH and 2 mg/kg MPH, while no effect was found in the high-attentive (HA) subgroup. Premature responses were increased by 1 mg/kg AMPH and 0.5 mg/kg MPH for all animals, and by 1 mg/kg AMPH for the LI subgroup. Conclusions: The use of variable stimulus duration, along with the division into high- and LA, and high-and LI subgroups, may improve the sensitivity of the 5-CSRTT when investigating drug effects on attention and impulsivity.
Gentamicin in the Treatment of Staphylococcal Infections
Authors: Chambers W B , Pallagrosi A U 
Published: January 2017

The aminoglycoside antibiotic, gentamicin, was used to treat staphylococcal infections in eighty-six patients in an open multicentre trial. Most of the infections involved the skin and soft tissue and the lower respiratory tract. Staphylococcus aureus was the only organism isolated in seventy-four patients; mixed flora were found in twelve. Gentamicin was administered, intramuscularly or intravenously, for 7 to 12 days (mean, 10 days) in a mean dose of 3.27 mg/kg per day. Clinical and bacteriological assessment of results indicated a complete resolution of the infection in fifty-three patients (61.6%) and a marked, moderate, or slight improvement in an additional twenty-nine patients (33.7%). Thus, a total of eighty-two patients (95.3%) showed cure or improvement while only four patients (4.6%) failed to do so. Staphylococci persisted in six patients. Superinfection also occurred in six patients, however, it was considered to be clinically significant in only four of them. Screening for eighth cranial nerve, renal, hepatic and haematological function, before, during, and after gentamicin treatment, revealed no adverse reactions in these patients.
A Double-Blind Clinical Study with Benzydamine 3% Cream on Soft Tissue Injuries in an Occupational Health Centre
Authors: Chatterjee D S 
Published: January 2017

A double-blind, controlled clinical study with benzydamine hydrochloride 3% cream was conducted in an Occupational Health Centre on fifty patients with soft tissue injuries (two mild, ten moderate and thirteen severe cases in the placebo group and one mild, thirteen moderate and twelve severe cases in the active group). The trial demonstrated the significant therapeutic superiority of 3% benzydamine cream over inactive placebo in all six qualitative parameters for traumatic inflammatory changes at the end of a six-day assessment and a marked improvement of symptoms even two days after the onset of therapy. In addition, the incidental use of ultrasound therapy together with the standard treatment revealed the value of the active drug as an effective couplant. Neither group suffered any side-effects. Although the size of population studied was small, it was apparent that active treatment with benzydamine was a distinct aid to healing of soft tissue injuries and this should be confirmed with further large-scale clinical trials.
Effect of Vaporub and Petrolatum on Frequency and Amplitude of Breathing in Children with Acute Bronchitis
Authors: Berger H , Jarosch E , Madreiter H 
Published: January 2017

Transthoracic impedance pneumographs from sixty children suffering from acute bronchitis were studied to investigate the effect of Vaporub® on the amplitude and frequency of breathing. The experimental technique consisted of an observation period of 70 minutes after a 3-minute treatment with Vaporub® or Petrolatum as a control. Before the treatment, after an adaptation period of 20 minutes, the pneumogram was recorded for 10 minutes, after the treatment pneumograms were recorded for 70 minutes. The pneumograph data demonstrated an early increase in amplitude up to 33.0%, with a subsequent return to slightly above control for the remaining test period. Such an increase was not observed in the Petrolatum-treated group. Breathing frequency demonstrated a progressive decrease to 19.4% of the pre-treatment value at the end of the test period, while the Petrolatum controls were between + 3.6 to — 4.2% difference. It is concluded that Vaporub® treatment results in a change in breathing patterns. This, together with the clinical observation of the children suggests a condition of ‘easier breathing'.
Significance of Metabolic and Blood Pressure Factors in Relation to Microangiopathy and Macro angiopathy in Patients with Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Okada S , Ichiki K , Tanokuchi S , Ishii K , Hamada H , Ota Z 
Published: January 2017

We are actively seeking methods to prevent and to limit the progression of angiopathy in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). In the present study, we conducted a clinical and epidemiological survey to clarify the clinical factors responsible for the development and progression of diabetic microangiopathy (MI) and macroangiopathy (MA). A total of 107 patients (58 female and 49 male) were randomly selected from 145 NIDDM patients. Twenty-four patient variables were selected for analysis. We identified PWV, UAI, RETINOP, MCV-T, SCV-S, MCV-P, SBP, and DBP as responsible factors and carried out stepwise multiple regression analyses. The following explanatory variables were found to be significant: age > SCV-S (P < 0.0001) for the criterion variable PWV, BUN > HbA1c > MCV-P > HT-drug > HDL-C ( P < 0.0001) for loge UAI, DM-thera > SBP ( P < 0.0001) for RETINOP, MCV-P ( P < 0.0001) for MCV-T, IRI > SBP > MCV-P > S-CR ( P < 0.0002) for SCV-S, MCV-T > SCV-S > DM-thera ( P < 0.0001) for MCV-P, DBP > HT-drug > BUN > MCV-P ( P < 0.0001) for SBP, and SBP > PWV > sex ( P < 0.0001) for DBP. In summary, responsible factors for MI and MA in NIDDM had metabolic and blood pressure factors in common. Moreover, MI was a responsible factor for MA, which becomes a responsible factor for MI because it is a responsible factor for blood pressure factors. Thus, all the responsible factors for MA represented by MI and PWV had metabolic and blood pressure factors in common. The results of this study suggest that metabolic and blood pressure factors must be controlled to prevent and to limit the progression of diabetic MI and MA in NIDDM patients.