bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bayesian Model Averaging for Wind Speed Ensemble Forecasts Using Wind Speed and Direction
Authors: Eide Siri Sofie , Bremnes John Bjørnar , Steinsland Ingelin 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
In this paper, probabilistic wind speed forecasts are constructed based on ensemble numerical weather prediction (NWP) forecasts for both wind speed and wind direction. Including other NWP variables in addition to the one subject to forecasting is common for statistical calibration of deterministic forecasts. However, this practice is rarely seen for ensemble forecasts, probably because of a lack of methods. A Bayesian modeling approach (BMA) is adopted, and a flexible model class based on splines is introduced for the mean model. The spline model allows both wind speed and wind direction to be included nonlinearly. The proposed methodology is tested for forecasting hourly maximum 10-min wind speeds based on ensemble forecasts from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts at 204 locations in Norway for lead times from +12 to +108 h. An improvement in the continuous ranked probability score is seen for approximately 85% of the locations using the proposed method compared to standard BMA based on only wind speed forecasts. For moderate-to-strong wind the improvement is substantial, while for low wind speeds there is generally less or no improvement. On average, the improvement is 5%. The proposed methodology can be extended to include more NWP variables in the calibration and can also be applied to other variables.
A 10-Year Survey of Tropical Cyclone Inner-Core Lightning Bursts and Their Relationship to Intensity Change
Authors: Stevenson Stephanie N. , Corbosiero Kristen L. , DeMaria Mark , Vigh Jonathan L. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
This study seeks to reconcile discrepancies between previous studies analyzing the relationship between lightning and tropical cyclone (TC) intensity change. Inner-core lightning bursts (ICLBs) were identified from 2005 to 2014 in North Atlantic (NA) and eastern North Pacific (ENP) TCs embedded in favorable environments (e.g., vertical wind shear ≤ 10 m s−1; sea surface temperatures ≥ 26.5°C) using data from the World Wide Lightning Location Network (WWLLN) transformed onto a regular grid with 8-km grid spacing to replicate the expected nadir resolution of the Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM). Three hypothesized factors that could impact the 24-h intensity change after a burst were tested: 1) prior intensity change, 2) azimuthal burst location, and 3) radial burst location. Most ICLBs occurred in weak TCs (tropical depressions and tropical storms), and most TCs intensified (remained steady) 24 h after burst onset in the NA (ENP). TCs were more likely to intensify 24 h after an ICLB if they were steady or intensifying prior to burst onset. Azimuthally, 75% of the ICLBs initiated downshear, with 92% of downshear bursts occurring in TCs that remained steady or intensified. Of the ICLBs that initiated or rotated upshear, 2–3 times more were associated with TC intensification than weakening, consistent with recent studies finding more symmetric convection in intensifying TCs. The radial burst location relative to the radius of maximum wind (RMW) provided the most promising result: TCs with an ICLB inside (outside) the RMW were associated with intensification (weakening).
Incidental Findings on FDG PET/CT in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Britt Christopher J. , Maas Austin M. , Kennedy Tabassum A. , Hartig Gregory K. 
Published: November 2017

Objective18F‐fluoro‐deoxy‐glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) imaging is common in head and neck cancer and often identifies incidental findings that necessitate additional patient evaluations. Our goal was to assess the frequency and nature of these incidental imaging findings on FDG‐PET/CT.Study DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingTertiary medical center.Subjects and MethodsAll patients with head and neck cancer who had undergone FDG‐PET/CT imaging between January 2014 and June 2015 at our institution were evaluated for incidental findings.ResultsA total of 293 patients met criteria; more than one‐third (n = 103) had at least 1 finding unrelated to their head and neck cancer, for a total of 134 incidental findings. Incidental findings within the head and neck (33.5% of all) excluding the thyroid were most common: 35% incidental findings were concerning for malignancy; of these, 25.5% were malignant with further workup. Recommendations were given by the head and neck radiologist on 72 (53.7%) findings: 74.5% of potentially malignant findings and 42.5% of benign findings had recommendations for follow‐up. Significantly more patients with findings described as malignant were given recommendations for follow‐up (P =. 0004).ConclusionIncidental findings on FDG‐PET/CT are present in more than one‐third of patients with head and neck cancer. More than one‐third of incidental findings were concerning for malignancy. This study illustrates how the incidental findings discovered on FDG PET/CT frequently necessitate additional evaluations unrelated to the index head and neck cancer. The impact of these additional assessments on the cost and quality of health care warrants future evaluation.
Intranasal Budesonide and Quality of Life in Pediatric Sleep‐Disordered Breathing: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Gudnadottir Gunnhildur , Ellegård Eva , Hellgren Johan 
Published: November 2017

ObjectiveTo study the efficacy of budesonide nasal spray on the health‐related quality of life and symptoms among children with sleep‐disordered breathing.Study DesignRandomized, parallel, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial.SettingTertiary referral center.Subjects and MethodsSixty children (ages, 4‐10 years) who were referred because of snoring and/or apneas for >3 months were included between January 2015 and June 2016 and randomized in a double‐blind design to treatment with 64 μg/mL of budesonide nasal spray (n = 30) or placebo nasal spray (n = 30) twice daily for 6 weeks. The primary outcome measurement was the change in the mean OSA‐18 total score from baseline. Other variables examined were individual OSA‐18 domains, a visual analog scale for quality of life, symptoms (snoring, apneas, and nasal obstruction), and adenoid and tonsil size. The trial was investigator initiated and not sponsored by the pharmaceutical industry.ResultsFifty‐five children completed the trial. An intention‐to‐treat analysis revealed a significantly greater improvement in the mean OSA‐18 total score after treatment with budesonide than placebo (19.5 vs 7.5, P =. 0014). Intranasal budesonide also improved 2 OSA‐18 domains (sleep disturbance, caregivers’ concerns), the visual analog scale score for quality of life, as well as snoring, apneas, and nasal obstruction. No serious adverse events were reported that could be linked to the treatment.ConclusionAmong children with sleep‐disordered breathing, 6 weeks’ treatment with intranasal budesonide significantly improved quality of life and symptoms as compared with placebo nasal spray.
Serial testing of the ICHD-3 beta diagnostic criteria for probable reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: A prospective validation study
Authors: Lee Mi Ji , Choi Hyun Ah , Choi Hanna , Chung Chin-Sang 
Published: November 2017

Objectives To serially test the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD) 3rd edition beta version criteria for 6.7.3.1 probable reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (probable RCVS) in patients with thunderclap headache. Methods We prospectively screened consecutive patients with thunderclap headache who visited the Samsung Medical Center between October 2015 and March 2017. Patients were included in the analysis if they a) visited our hospital within 1 month after onset, b) completed a diagnostic work-up, and c) had no secondary causes other than RCVS. The ICHD-3 beta 6.7.3.1 criteria were evaluated serially during the first visit (visit 1), 2 weeks after the first visit (visit 2), and 1–3 months after onset (visit 3). Results A total of 99 patients completed this study. Based on the first clinical and radiological evaluation, 63 (63.6%) were diagnosed with angiogram-proven RCVS, whilst 36 (36.4%) showed normal neuroimaging. The ICHD-3 beta 6.7.3.1 criteria were fulfilled in 76.2% of patients with angiogram-proven RCVS. In patients with normal angiograms, the ICHD diagnosis of probable RCVS changed over time: 25.0%, 47.2%, and 38.9% at visits 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of the criteria at visit 1 were 72.4% and 95.5%, respectively, for the prediction of a final diagnosis of overall (angiogram-proven + probable) RCVS. Conclusions The ICHD-3 beta criteria for probable RCVS are applicable for patients with thunderclap headaches at the acute stage, with the exception of criterion C3. Criteria C1 and C2 are less reliable when applied at the first visit. Repeated evaluation is necessary to enhance diagnostic sensitivity.
Evaluating nurse understanding and participation in the informed consent process
Authors: Axson Sydney A , Giordano Nicholas A , Hermann Robin M , Ulrich Connie M 
Published: November 2017

Background: Informed consent is fundamental to the autonomous decision-making of patients, yet much is still unknown about the process in the clinical setting. In an evolving healthcare landscape, nurses must be prepared to address patient understanding and participate in the informed consent process to better fulfill their well-established role as patient advocates. Research objective: This study examines hospital-based nurses’ experiences and understandings of the informed consent process. Research design: This qualitative descriptive study utilized a semi-structured interview approach identifying thematic concerns, experiences, and knowledge of informed consent across a selected population of clinically practicing nurses. Participants and research context: In all, 20 baccalaureate prepared registered nurses practicing in various clinical settings (i.e. critical care, oncology, medical/surgical) at a large northeastern academic medical center in the United States completed semi-structured interviews and a demographic survey. The mean age of participants was 36.6 years old, with a mean of 12.2 years of clinical experience. Ethical considerations: Participation in this study involved minimal risk and no invasive measures. This study received Institutional Review Board approval from the University of Pennsylvania. All participants voluntarily consented. Findings: The majority of participants (N = 19) believe patient safety is directly linked to patient comprehension of the informed consent process. However, when asked if nurses have a defined role in the informed consent process, nearly half did not agree (N = 9). Through this qualitative approach, three major nursing roles emerged: the nurse as a communicator, the nurse as an advocate, and the clerical role of the nurse. Discussion and conclusion: This investigation contributes to the foundation of ethical research that will better prepare nurses for patient engagement, advance current understanding of informed consent, and allow for future development of solutions. Nurses are at the forefront of patient–provider interactions and they are often presented opportunities to learn about and engage in the informed consent process.
Identity work and illness careers of patients with medically unexplained symptoms
Authors: Rossen Camilla Blach , Buus Niels , Stenager Elsebeth , Stenager Egon 
Published: November 2017

This article reports a case study of the illness career and identity work of patients who have had medically unexplained symptoms for many years with a particular emphasis on their interactions with a specialized and standardized health care system. Patients with medically unexplained symptoms often experience being met with mistrust and feel their identity threatened as a consequence of being illegitimately ill. There is a strong tendency in health care towards assessment thorough standardized so-called assessment packages. The study used a case study approach. Ethnographic fieldwork was carried out and several types of data were sampled through theoretical sampling, resulting in data from and about a sample of 13 patients, from which two patients were selected as cases. The study showed that a standardized health care system characterized by a tendency towards narrow diagnostic assessment with limited time can lead to a diagnostic limbo and that patients and health care professionals keep on searching for legitimate explanations for the patients’ still unexplained symptoms. Consequently the patients were left in a constant identity negotiation.
Recurrent cannabis use among Norwegian students
Authors: Erevik Eilin K. , Torsheim Torbjørn , Andreassen Cecilie S. , Vedaa Øystein , Pallesen Ståle 
Published: November 2017

Background: Research on cannabis has focused on lifetime use or regular/heavy use (i.e., daily or almost daily). Regular, albeit not necessarily daily, cannabis use has received less scientific attention. Objectives: This study aims to identify demographic and personality factors associated with recurrent cannabis use (i.e., cannabis usage 5 to 50 times in the last six months) and to investigate the relationship between cannabis use and use of other substances. Methods: Public and private university students ( N = 11,236) in Bergen, Norway, participated in an online survey during autumn 2015. Binary logistic regression was run to identify individual characteristics related to recurrent cannabis use. Chi-square tests were conducted to investigate differences in substance use (alcohol, nicotine, and illicit drugs) between recurrent cannabis users and cannabis abstainers/low-frequency users. Results: A total of 4.0% of the students reported recurrent cannabis use. Students born in North America, non-Christians (compared to non-religious students), and men were more likely to be recurrent users. Recurrent cannabis users scored higher on extroversion and intellect/imagination compared to abstainers/low-frequency users. Male and female recurrent cannabis users had somewhat different characteristics (e.g., agreeableness scores were negatively associated with recurrent use among females but not among males). Recurrent cannabis use was overall strongly associated with polysubstance use. Conclusions: The prevalence of recurrent cannabis use among Norwegian students is low. Recurrent cannabis use seems more prevalent among individuals marked by extroversion and intellect/imagination, which supports the notion of cannabis use as a social activity for individuals identifying themselves as outgoing and unconventional. Cannabis use among students seems strongly associated with use of other substances, suggesting that cannabis should not be considered a replacement drug.
Community singing groups for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: participant perspectives
Authors: Skingley Ann , Clift Stephen , Hurley Sadie , Price Sonia , Stephens Lizzi 
Published: November 2017

Aim: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major public health issue which is irreversible and progressive, but previous research suggests that singing may have beneficial effects. The aim of this study was to establish the views of participants with COPD taking part in a singing for better breathing programme. Methods: This was a descriptive qualitative study nested within a single-cohort feasibility study which included measures of lung function and wellbeing. Participants ( n = 37) were interviewed following a community singing programme that ran over 10 months in South East England. Results: Findings support those from previous studies regarding the impact of singing on respiratory wellbeing. These included the teaching on breath control, relaxation and the breathing exercises, singing as a means to deflect attention away from breathing problems, leading to increased activity levels and the mutual support for respiratory problems. Beyond the impact on breathing, the singing was also seen as fun, and provided friendship and a ‘feel-good’ factor which led to motivation to participate in further activities. For some, it was the highlight of the week, and singing together in a group was felt to be central to the benefits experienced. Findings are compared with the quantitative measures within the same study. Conclusion: The majority of participants reported improvements in respiratory symptoms as well as mental and social wellbeing following the programme. The study contributes to the evidence base in supporting and highlighting the consistently positive experiences of a large sample of participants, despite variable outcomes in clinical measures.
Observational in-vitro study comparing the efficacy of fluid warming devices: Ranger© 24500 versus ANIMEC AM-2S
Authors: Chang See Seong , Lim Wan Yen , Ho Vui Kian 
Published: November 2017

Background: Intraoperative hypothermia is detrimental to the patient. This, however, can be minimized with infusion of warmed fluids. Objectives: We investigated the warming capabilities of the Ranger© 24500 (Ranger) and ANIMEC AM-2S (ANIMEC) at various low infusion rates. We also examined the use of two ANIMEC warmers placed in series along the intravenous tubing. Methods: We had three comparative trial groups for our experiment. Trial group 1 involved the use of an ANIMEC fluid warmer. Trial group 2 involved the use of two ANIMEC fluid warmers placed in series. Trial group 3 involved the use of the Ranger. Three different infusion rates (1 ml/min, 5 ml/min and 10 ml/min) were examined. Results: The use of two ANIMEC fluid warmers delivered the warmest fluid in all three study infusion rates. The mean (SD) delivered temperature was 24.11 (0.62)°C at 1 ml/min, 29.59 (0.10)°C at 5 ml/min and 29.27 (0.10)°C at 10 ml/min. The Ranger delivered the lowest temperatures at infusion rates of 1 ml/min and 5 ml/min. The mean temperatures were 21.01 (0.38)°C and 23.87 (0.34)°C respectively. The mean temperatures of utilizing one ANIMEC fluid warmer were 21.49 (0.35)°C, 25.47 (0.08)°C and 24.78 (0.12)°C at infusion rates of 1 ml/min, 5 ml/min and 10 ml/min respectively. Conclusion: The ANIMEC performs better than the Ranger at low flow rates of up to 5 ml/min. A novel method of placing the two ANIMEC warming devices in series can further improve its warming capabilities.
Influence of longitudinal position on the evolution of steady-state signal in cardiac cine balanced steady-state free precession imaging
Authors: Spear Tyler J , Stromp Tori A , Leung Steve W , Vandsburger Moriel H 
Published: November 2017

Background Emerging quantitative cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) techniques use cine balanced steady-state free precession (bSSFP) to measure myocardial signal intensity and probe underlying physiological parameters. This correlation assumes that steady-state is maintained uniformly throughout the heart in space and time. Purpose To determine the effects of longitudinal cardiac motion and initial slice position on signal deviation in cine bSSFP imaging by comparing two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) acquisitions. Material and Methods Nine healthy volunteers completed cardiac MRI on a 1.5-T scanner. Short axis images were taken at six slice locations using both 2D and 3D cine bSSFP. 3D acquisitions spanned two slices above and below selected slice locations. Changes in myocardial signal intensity were measured across the cardiac cycle and compared to longitudinal shortening. Results For 2D cine bSSFP, 46% ± 9% of all frames and 84% ± 13% of end-diastolic frames remained within 10% of initial signal intensity. For 3D cine bSSFP the proportions increased to 87% ± 8% and 97% ± 5%. There was no correlation between longitudinal shortening and peak changes in myocardial signal. The initial slice position significantly impacted peak changes in signal intensity for 2D sequences ( P < 0.001). Conclusion The initial longitudinal slice location significantly impacts the magnitude of deviation from steady-state in 2D cine bSSFP that is only restored at the center of a 3D excitation volume. During diastole, a transient steady-state is established similar to that achieved with 3D cine bSSFP regardless of slice location.
Perception and use of complementary and alternative medicine for low back pain
Authors: Tsang Vivian Hiu Man , Lo Phoebe Hiu Wai , Lam Fong Tao , Chung Lulu Suet Wing , Tang Tin Yan , Lui Hoi Man , Lau Jordan Tsz Gwan , Yee Ho Fung , Lun Yiu Kun , Chan Hei Tung , Cheung Jason Pui Yin 
Published: November 2017

Purpose: To determine the prevalence of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use in patients with low back pain (LBP) and to identify its correlation with demographic factors, clinical condition and psychosocial factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 278 LBP patients. Use of CAM, demographic parameters and disease duration were determined. Self-reported health status and self-rated scales assessed the effect of disease on quality of life and emotional well-being, respectively. Satisfaction with orthopaedic care and belief partiality towards CAM were assessed. Results: In all, 72.3% patients sought CAM treatment. The most common choice of CAM was traditional Chinese medicine (TCM; n = 166), followed by massage therapy ( n = 114) and chiropractic treatment ( n = 45). Within TCM, acupuncture was the most popular treatment for LBP ( n = 127). Only 32.5% patients informed their doctors of their CAM use. In univariate analyses, factors positively associated with CAM use included duration of LBP (odds ratio (OR) = 1.45, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06–1.97), use of CAM in close social circles (OR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.15–3.43) and summary score for belief partiality towards CAM (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.13–1.23). Variables negatively and significantly associated with status of CAM use include age (OR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.95–0.99) and summary score for satisfaction with orthopaedic care (OR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.88–0.99). Conclusion: CAM use in patients with LBP is prevalent and largely unknown to their doctors. Personal beliefs and their satisfaction with conventional medical treatment both play a part in their decisions to use CAM. Future studies may aim at understanding the effect of CAM on patient adherence to conventional medical treatment and patients’ perception of well-being and pain.
The impact of surgery for trochanteric femur fracture on sexuality in men and their female partners
Authors: Balci Melih , Cankaya Deniz , Tuncel Altug , Yoldas Burak , Guzel Ozer , Senel Cagdas 
Published: November 2017

Purpose: This study was aimed to investigate the effects of trochanteric femur fracture treatment methods on erectile functions of the patients and on sexual functions with their female partners. Materials and Methods: A total of 43 patients with trochanteric femur fracture who underwent proximal femoral nail (PFN) or proximal femur locking compression plate (PF-LCP) surgery were included in the study. The PFN implant was applied to group 1 ( n = 23) and the PF-LCP implant to group 2 ( n = 20). All the patients and their female partners completed the 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) preoperatively and at 1 year postoperatively after the rehabilitation period. Results: The mean preoperative IIEF-5 and FSFI score was 21.910.9 and 21.911.1, 72.319.7 and 70.516.2 for the PFN and PF-LCP treatment groups, respectively, and at postoperative 1 year after rehabilitation, change in IIEF-5 score and FSFI score of each group was −6.512.1 versus −3.811.6, ( p < 0.001) and −16110.7 versus −6.314, ( p = 0.001), respectively. Conclusion: These data show that trochanteric femur fractures treated with PFN or PF-LCP had a negative impact on sexual function. PF-LCP had a greater negative effect than PFN on sexual function.