bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Improved Gridded Wind Speed Forecasts by Statistical Postprocessing of Numerical Models with Block Regression
Authors: Zamo Michaël , Bel Liliane , Mestre Olivier , Stein Joël 
Published: September 2016

Abstract
Numerical weather forecast errors are routinely corrected through statistical postprocessing by several national weather services. These statistical postprocessing methods build a regression function called model output statistics (MOS) between observations and forecasts that is based on an archive of past forecasts and associated observations. Because of limited spatial coverage of most near-surface parameter measurements, MOS have been historically produced only at meteorological station locations. Nevertheless, forecasters and forecast users increasingly ask for improved gridded forecasts. The present work aims at building improved hourly wind speed forecasts over the grid of a numerical weather prediction model. First, a new observational analysis, which performs better in terms of statistical scores than those operationally used at Météo-France, is described as gridded pseudo-observations. This analysis, which is obtained by using an interpolation strategy that was selected among other alternative strategies after an intercomparison study conducted internally at Météo-France, is very parsimonious since it requires only two additive components, and it requires little computational resources. Then, several scalar regression methods are built and compared, using the new analysis as the observation. The most efficient MOS is based on random forests trained on blocks of nearby grid points. This method greatly improves forecasts compared with raw output of numerical weather prediction models. Furthermore, building each random forest on blocks and limiting those forests to shallow trees does not impair performance compared with unpruned and pointwise random forests. This alleviates the storage burden of the objects and speeds up operations.
The WWC Attrition Standard
Authors: Deke John , Chiang Hanley 
Published: September 2016

Background: To limit the influence of attrition bias in assessments of intervention effectiveness, several federal evidence reviews have established a standard for acceptable levels of sample attrition in randomized controlled trials. These evidence reviews include the What Works Clearinghouse (WWC), the Home Visiting Evidence of Effectiveness Review, and the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Evidence Review. We believe the WWC attrition standard may constitute the first use of model-based, empirically supported bounds on attrition bias in the context of a federally sponsored systematic evidence review. Meeting the WWC attrition standard (or one of the attrition standards based on the WWC standard) is now an important consideration for researchers conducting studies that could potentially be reviewed by the WWC (or other evidence reviews). Objectives: The purpose of this article is to explain the WWC attrition model, how that model is used to establish attrition bounds, and to assess the sensitivity of attrition bounds to key parameter values. Research Design: Results are based on equations derived in the article and values generated by applying those equations to a range of parameter values. Results: The authors find that the attrition boundaries are more sensitive to the maximum level of bias that an evidence review is willing to tolerate than to other parameters in the attrition model. Conclusions: The authors conclude that the most productive refinements to existing attrition standards may be with respect to the definition of “maximum tolerable bias.”
‘It’s not all just about the dying’. Kaumātua Māori attitudes towards physician aid-in dying: A narrative enquiry
Authors: Malpas Phillipa J , Anderson Anneka , Jacobs Pio , Jacobs Takawai , Luinstra Danielle , Paul Dolly , Rauwhero Jim , Wade Julie , Wharemate David 
Published: September 2016

Aim: To explore kaumātua attitudes towards physician aid-in dying, to gain a clear understanding of how such attitudes may influence and shape their expectations of medical care at the end of life and to assist health professionals in Aotearoa/New Zealand to address the healthcare needs of older Māori near the end of life. Design: A kaupapa Māori consistent approach was undertaken. A systematic narrative technique was employed for the qualitative data analysis. Data were triangulated through independent data coding by three researchers (two of whom identified as Māori researchers), to ensure a robust and consistent method of analysis as well as adhering to a kaupapa Māori research approach. Setting/participants: Recruitment of participants was through kaumātua of Te Kupenga Hauora Māori (Māori leadership within the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences), University of Auckland and local Auckland marae. Focus group or individual interviews (as per their preference) were undertaken with 20 Kaumātua from the Auckland region. Results: Five closely interrelated themes were identified from kaumātua narratives regarding physician aid-in dying. These were (1) attitudes and understandings of physician aid-in dying, (2) influence of power, (3) significance of kawa, (4) whānau relationships and the (5) significance of wairua. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that for these kaumātua, medical practices that hasten death such as physician aid-in dying are ‘not all just about the dying’. Tikanga and kawa are important processes and concepts to understand during death and dying, and whānau are central to such processes being respected by those involved in the dying process. These factors are so closely intertwined that they cannot be considered in separation of each other.
Hyperglycemia is associated with more severe cytotoxic injury after stroke
Authors: Bevers Matthew B , Vaishnav Neil H , Pham Ly , Battey Thomas WK , Kimberly W Taylor 
Published: September 2016

Hyperglycemia is a common complication after ischemic stroke, but its link to worse outcome is not well understood. We hypothesized that hyperglycemia may reflect an impaired metabolic response that is associated with worse cytotoxic brain injury. We performed retrospective analysis of magnetic resonance imaging from a cohort of acute ischemic stroke patients prospectively collected from 2006 to 2010 with baseline demographic and laboratory data as well as three-month outcomes. The severity of cytotoxic injury was quantified in vivo using apparent diffusion coefficient imaging by measuring the signal intensity within the stroke relative to the normal signal intensity of the contralateral hemisphere. Both hyperglycemia and lower apparent diffusion coefficient signal were associated with worse outcome after ischemic stroke (OR 0.239, p = 0.017; OR 1.11, p < 0.0001, respectively). Hyperglycemia was also associated with lower apparent diffusion coefficient (r = −0.32, p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, apparent diffusion coefficient but not hyperglycemia was associated with outcome, suggesting that cytotoxicity may mediate the effect of hyperglycemia. For interventions designed to target hyperglycemia in acute ischemic stroke, a concomitant effect on the evolution of apparent diffusion coefficient may provide insight into whether hyperglycemia leads to or reflects worse cytotoxic injury.
Occupational experience of caregiving during driving disruption following an acquired brain injury
Authors: Liang Phyllis , Fleming Jennifer , Gustafsson Louise , Liddle Jacki 
Published: September 2016

Introduction Caregiving associated with driving disruption following an acquired brain injury is challenging and impacts on family members’ daily lives. However, little is known about the activities and meaning behind the occupation of a family member providing care during driving disruption. Method A prospective longitudinal design with a phenomenological approach was used as part of a larger study exploring family members’ needs and experiences. Forty-two semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 family members over a 6-month period. Interviews were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results The occupational experiences related to caregiving during driving disruption emerged as a key finding. The meaning and activities comprising the caregiving occupation during driving disruption are captured in three themes: (1) More than just driving; (2) The invisible and undervalued care and (3) Being a therapist at home. Family members highlighted the challenges of managing broader and multiple responsibilities. Conclusion The lived experiences, perceived meaning and activities involved in the caregiver occupation during driving disruption extend beyond just transport provision. Family members require support for occupational engagement and satisfaction at this key time. Rehabilitation and support for the person after an acquired brain injury may also improve the occupational experiences of family members.
Biomechanical Comparison of 3 Current Ankle Syndesmosis Repair Techniques
Authors: Clanton Thomas O. , Whitlow Scott R. , Williams Brady T. , Liechti Daniel J. , Backus Jonathon D. , Dornan Grant J. , Saroki Adriana J. , Turnbull Travis Lee , LaPrade Robert F. 
Published: September 2016

Background: Significant debate exists regarding optimal repair for unstable syndesmosis injuries. Techniques range from screw fixation, suture-button fixation, or a combination of the two. In this study, 3 common repairs were compared using a simulated weightbearing protocol with internal and external rotation of the foot. Methods: Twenty-four lower leg specimens with mean age 54 years (range, 38-68 years) were used for testing. Following creation of a complete syndesmotic injury (AITFL, ITFL, PITFL, interosseous membrane), specimens were repaired using 1 of 3 randomly assigned techniques: (1) one 3.5-mm syndesmotic screw, (2) 1 suture-button construct, and (3) 2 divergent suture-button constructs. Repairs were cycled for 500 cycles between 7.5 Nm of internal/external rotation torque under a constant 750 N axial compressive load in a neutral dorsiflexion position. At 0, 10, 100, and 500 cycles, torsional cyclic loading was interrupted to assess torsional resistance to rotation within a physiologic range of motion (15 degrees external rotation to 10 degrees internal rotation). Torque (Nm), rotational position (degrees), and 3-dimensional data were collected throughout the testing to characterize relative spatial relationships of the tibiofibular articulation. Results: There were no significant differences between repair techniques in resistance to internal and external rotation with respect to the intact syndesmosis. Three-dimensional analysis revealed significant differences between repair techniques for sagittal fibular translation with external rotation of the foot. Screw fixation had the smallest magnitude of posterior sagittal translation (2.5 mm), and a single suture-button construct demonstrated the largest magnitude of posterior sagittal translation (4.6 mm). Screw fixation also allowed for significantly less anterior sagittal translation with internal rotation of the foot (0.1 mm) when compared to both 1 (2.7 mm) and 2 (2.9 mm) suture-button constructs. Conclusion: All repairs provided comparable rotational stability to the syndesmosis; however, no repair technique completely restored rotational stability and tibiofibular anatomic relationships of the preinjury state. Clinical Relevance: Constructs were comparable across most conditions; however, when repairing injuries with a suture-button construct, a single suture-button construct may not provide sufficient resistance to sagittal translation of the fibula.
Efficacy of Foot and Ankle Corticosteroid Injections
Authors: Grice John , Marsland Daniel , Smith George , Calder James 
Published: September 2016

Background: Corticosteroid injections have been used for a variety of foot and ankle pathologies over the years, and our aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of them in our clinic. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective review of notes and a telephone questionnaire on the clinical outcome of all patients who underwent a corticosteroid injection of the foot or ankle in a year. All procedures were performed in an outpatient setting by a consultant musculoskeletal radiologist using either ultrasound or X-ray guidance and had a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. Results: Overall, 314 of 365 (86%) patients reported a significant improvement in symptoms, and 242 (66%) reported complete resolution of their pain, with 107 (29%) remaining asymptomatic at the 2-year follow-up. The mode time of recurrence of pain was 3 months. Fifty-one (14%) underwent a further injection and 88 (24%) underwent operative intervention within the follow-up period. Complication rates in our series were low. There were no reported infections. Complications occurred in 5 patients (1.3%), including steroid flare, pain, and plantar plate ruptures. Conclusion: Corticosteroid injections were a safe and effective option for treating a variety of foot and ankle conditions and reduced the need for surgery. They were particularly effective for the treatment of ankle soft tissue impingement. They appear ineffective in providing significant improvement in pain for longer than 3 months in conditions such as plantar fasciitis and hallux rigidus. Level of Evidence: IV, case series.
Correction of Hallux Valgus Interphalangeus With an Osteotomy of the Distal End of the Proximal Phalanx (Distal Akin Osteotomy)
Authors: Vander Griend Robert 
Published: September 2016

Background: Operative correction of a symptomatic hallux valgus interphalangeus (HVI) deformity is often achieved with an osteotomy at the proximal end of the proximal phalanx (Akin osteotomy). However, the apex of the typical HVI deformity (center of rotation angle) is at the interphalangeal joint of the hallux. This study was done to evaluate the results of performing a medial closing wedge osteotomy at the distal end of the proximal phalanx. Methods: Thirty-three patients (33 feet) underwent an osteotomy at the distal end of the proximal phalanx for correction of HVI. All of the patients had other forefoot deformities which were corrected at the same time. Eight of these were revision procedures of prior forefoot operations. The length of follow-up was determined by the associated procedures with a minimum follow-up of 4 months. Results: The preoperative hallux valgus interphalangeus angle averaged 16 degrees of valgus (range 7-32 degrees) and was corrected to an average of 2 degrees of valgus (range 5 degrees valgus to 5 degrees varus). All of the patients were satisfied with the postoperative appearance and function of the first toe. Because of simultaneous correction of numerous other forefoot problems, it was not possible to specifically isolate or evaluate the effects and benefits of this osteotomy using outcomes measures. There was one intraoperative complication resulting in a fracture extending into the adjacent IP joint. Conclusions: Correction of an HVI deformity can be achieved with an osteotomy at the distal end of the proximal phalanx. This was a safe technique with few complications and with good results in terms of both correction and patient satisfaction. Level of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective case series.
A new augmented Lagrangian primal dual algorithm for elastica regularization
Authors: Zhang Jianping , Chen Ke 
Published: September 2016

Regularization is a key element of variational models in image processing. To overcome the weakness of models based on total variation, various high order (typically second order) regularization models have been proposed and studied recently. Among these, Euler's elastica energy based regularizer is perhaps the most interesting in terms of both mathematical and physical justifications. More importantly its success has been proven in applications; however it has been a major challenge to develop fast and effective algorithms. In this paper we propose a new idea for deriving a primal dual algorithm, based on Legendre–Fenchel transformations, for representing the elastica regularizer. Combined with an augmented Lagrangian for-mulation, we are able to derive an equivalent unconstrained optimization that has fewer variables to work with than previous works based on splitting methods. We shall present our algorithms for both the image restoration problem and the image segmentation model. The idea applies to other models where the elastica regularizer is required. Numerical experiments show that the proposed method can produce highly competitive results with better efficiency.
Bioavailability, safety, and pharmacodynamics of delayed-release dexlansoprazole administered as two 30 mg orally disintegrating tablets or one 60 mg capsule
Authors: Kukulka Michael , Nudurupati Sai , Perez Maria Claudia 
Published: September 2016

Background: Dual delayed-release dexlansoprazole is approved for use in adults as a 30 mg orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) or as 30 mg and 60 mg capsules. The pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety profile of two dexlansoprazole 30 mg ODTs were compared with one dexlansoprazole 60 mg capsule in this randomized, phase I, open-label, single-center, multiple-dose, two-period crossover study. Methods: Participants were randomized in one of two treatment sequences, each comprised two 5-day treatment periods during which two dexlansoprazole 30 mg ODTs or one 60 mg capsule was administered once daily. Pharmacokinetic parameters and the mean intragastric pH profile for the 24-hour period after dosing on days 1 and 5 were described. Adverse events were monitored during study duration and followed up with a phone call 5–10 days after the last dose of study drug. Results: On day 1, peak observed plasma concentration ( Cmax) values were similar between two 30 mg ODTs (1047 ng/ml) and one 60 mg capsule (1164 ng/ml). Systemic exposure, measured by the area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC), was approximately 25% lower after ODT administration. On day 5, mean pH after daily doses of two 30 mg ODT or one 60 mg capsule was 4.33 and 4.36, respectively; both regimens maintained intragastric pH above 4.0 for 60% of the 24-hour period. Headache was the most commonly reported adverse event (observed in 19.2% of participants); no adverse events leading to study withdrawal occurred. Conclusions: While systemic exposure (AUC) was 25% lower with ODT, peak concentrations ( Cmax) after administration of two dexlansoprazole 30 mg ODTs and one 60 mg capsule were similar. The 24-hour intragastric pH control after administration of two dexlansoprazole 30 mg ODTs was equivalent to one dexlansoprazole 60 mg capsule. Both ODT and capsule were well tolerated.
Effects of Rotator Cuff Pathology and Physical Therapy on In Vivo Shoulder Motion and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With a Symptomatic Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tear
Authors: Baumer Timothy G. , Chan Derek , Mende Veronica , Dischler Jack , Zauel Roger , van Holsbeeck Marnix , Siegal Daniel S. , Divine George , Moutzouros Vasilios , Bey Michael J. 
Published: September 2016

Background: Physical therapy (PT) is often prescribed for patients with rotator cuff tears. The extent to which PT influences strength, range of motion (ROM), and patient-reported outcomes has been studied extensively, but the effect of PT on in vivo joint kinematics is not well understood. Purpose: To assess the influence of symptomatic rotator cuff pathology and the effects of PT on shoulder motion, strength, and patient-reported outcomes. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Twenty-five patients with a symptomatic rotator cuff tear and 25 age-matched asymptomatic control subjects were recruited. Shoulder motion was measured using a biplane radiography imaging system, strength was assessed with a Biodex dynamometer, and patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index and visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores. Data were acquired from the patients before and after 8 weeks of physical therapy. Data were acquired at 1 time point for the control subjects. Results: Compared with the control subjects, patients with a symptomatic rotator cuff tear had significantly worse pain/function scores ( P < .01); less ROM ( P < .01); lower abduction (ABD), external rotation (ER), and internal rotation (IR) strength ( P < .01); less scapulothoracic posterior tilt ( P = .05); and lower glenohumeral joint elevation ( P < .01). Physical therapy resulted in improved pain/function scores ( P < .01), increased ROM ( P < .02), increased scapulothoracic posterior tilt ( P = .05), increased glenohumeral joint elevation ( P = .01), and decreased acromiohumeral distance (AHD) ( P = .02). Conclusion: Compared with age-matched controls, patients had worse pain/function scores, less ROM, and lower ABD, ER, and IR strength. Patients also had less scapulothoracic anteroposterior tilt, less glenohumeral joint elevation, and an altered glenohumeral joint contact path. PT resulted in improved pain/function scores, increased ROM, greater posterior scapulothoracic tilt, increased glenohumeral joint elevation, an increased range of superoinferior joint contact, and a lower mean AHD. Of these differences, PT only returned scapulothoracic tilt to control levels. Clinical Relevance: This study documents the effects of PT on shoulder motion and conventional clinical outcomes. It is expected that understanding how changes in joint motion are associated with conventional clinical outcomes will lead to improved nonoperative interventions for patients with rotator cuff tears.