bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Data Assimilation Length Scales on Analysis and Prediction of Convective Storms
Authors: Lange Heiner , Craig George C. 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
An idealized convective test bed for the local ensemble transform Kalman filter (LETKF) is set up to perform storm-scale data assimilation of simulated Doppler radar observations. Convective systems with lifetimes exceeding 6 h are triggered in a doubly periodic domain. Perfect-model experiments are used to investigate the limited predictability in precipitation forecasts by comparing analysis schemes that resolve different length scales. Starting from a high-resolution reference scheme with 8-km covariance localization and observations with 2-km resolution on a 5-min cycle, an experimental hierarchy is set up by successively choosing a larger covariance localization radius of 32 km, observations that are horizontally averaged by a factor of 4, a coarser resolution in the calculation of the analysis weights, and a cycling interval of 20 min. After 3 h of assimilation, the high-resolution analysis scheme is clearly superior to the configurations with coarser scales in terms of RMS error and field-oriented measures. The difference is associated with the observation resolution and a larger localization radius required for filter convergence with coarse observations. The high-resolution analysis leads to better forecasts for the first hour, but after 3 hours, the forecast quality of the schemes is indistinguishable. The more rapid error growth in forecasts from the high-resolution analysis appears to be associated with a limited predictability of the small scales, but also with gravity wave noise and spurious convective cells. The latter suggests that the field is in some sense less balanced, or less consistent with the model dynamics, than in the coarser-resolution analysis.
Using Percentiles to Communicate Snowfall Uncertainty
Authors: Novak David R. , Brill Keith F. , Hogsett Wallace A. 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
An objective technique to determine forecast snowfall ranges consistent with the risk tolerance of users is demonstrated. The forecast snowfall ranges are based on percentiles from probability distribution functions that are assumed to be perfectly calibrated. A key feature of the technique is that the snowfall range varies dynamically, with the resultant ranges varying based on the spread of ensemble forecasts at a given forecast projection, for a particular case, for a particular location. Furthermore, this technique allows users to choose their risk tolerance, quantified in terms of the expected false alarm ratio for forecasts of snowfall range. The technique is applied to the 4–7 March 2013 snowstorm at two different locations (Chicago, Illinois, and Washington, D.C.) to illustrate its use in different locations with different forecast uncertainties. The snowfall range derived from the Weather Prediction Center Probabilistic Winter Precipitation Forecast suite is found to be statistically reliable for the day 1 forecast during the 2013/14 season, providing confidence in the practical applicability of the technique.
Display Clutter
Authors: Moacdieh Nadine , Sarter Nadine 
Published: July 2014

Objective: We aimed to synthesize the literature on display clutter by reviewing definitions and measurement techniques and to develop a comprehensive, ergonomics-oriented perspective on clutter. We provide guidance for the selection of measurement approaches that can capture the various aspects and effects of clutter on visual search in particular. Background: There is agreement that clutter may represent a significant problem to operators. The challenge is to determine the ideal middle ground between excessive data and insufficient information. However, definitions of clutter vary widely, which explains the range of measurement approaches, including image-processing algorithms, performance evaluation, subjective evaluation, and eye tracking. It is important to understand the affordances of each technique and provide guidance for their use. Method: We provide a systematic review of clutter definitions and develop a performance-oriented perspective for ergonomics research. Next, we present a critical overview of clutter measurement approaches. The benefits and limitations of each technique are detailed, and recommendations for best practice are provided. Results: From an ergonomics perspective, clutter matters to the extent that it affects performance, particularly, visual search. A combination of measurement techniques can be employed in order to assess the performance costs stemming from the multiple aspects of clutter. Conclusion: Display clutter is a multifaceted construct that is a problem when it results in performance and attentional costs. The assessment of these costs is critical and requires the use of appropriate and complementary techniques. Application: It is important that the performance costs of clutter are detected reliably to be able to better support attention management.
A study of the 200-metre fast walk test as a possible new assessment tool to predict maximal heart rate and define target heart rate for exercise training of coronary heart disease patients
Authors: Casillas Jean-Marie , Joussain Charles , Gremeaux Vincent , Hannequin Armelle , Rapin Amandine , Laurent Yves , Benaïm Charles 
Published: July 2014

Objective: To develop a new predictive model of maximal heart rate based on two walking tests at different speeds (comfortable and brisk walking) as an alternative to a cardiopulmonary exercise test during cardiac rehabilitation. Design: Evaluation of a clinical assessment tool. Setting: A Cardiac Rehabilitation Department in France. Subjects: A total of 148 patients (133 men), mean age of 59 ±9 years, at the end of an outpatient cardiac rehabilitation programme. Main measures: Patients successively performed a 6-minute walk test, a 200 m fast-walk test (200mFWT), and a cardiopulmonary exercise test, with measure of heart rate at the end of each test. An all-possible regression procedure was used to determine the best predictive regression models of maximal heart rate. The best model was compared with the Fox equation in term of predictive error of maximal heart rate using the paired t-test. Results: Results of the two walking tests correlated significantly with maximal heart rate determined during the cardiopulmonary exercise test, whereas anthropometric parameters and resting heart rate did not. The simplified predictive model with the most acceptable mean error was: maximal heart rate = 130 − 0.6 × age + 0.3 × HR200mFWT (R2 = 0.24). This model was superior to the Fox formula (R2 = 0.138). The relationship between training target heart rate calculated from measured reserve heart rate and that established using this predictive model was statistically significant ( r = 0.528, p < 10−6). Conclusions: A formula combining heart rate measured during a safe simple fast walk test and age is more efficient than an equation only including age to predict maximal heart rate and training target heart rate.
The role of Si interstitials in the migration and growth of Ge nanocrystallites under thermal annealing in an oxidizing ambient
Authors: Chen Kuan-Hung , Wang Ching-Chi , George Tom , Li Pei-Wen 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
We report a unique growth and migration behavior of Ge nanocrystallites mediated by the presence of Si interstitials under thermal annealing at 900°C within an H2O ambient. The Ge nanocrystallites were previously generated by the selective oxidation of SiGe nanopillars and appeared to be very sensitive to the presence of Si interstitials that come either from adjacent Si3N4 layers or from within the oxidized nanopillars. A cooperative mechanism is proposed, wherein the Si interstitials aid in both the migration and coarsening of these Ge nanocrystallites through Ostwald ripening, while the Ge nanocrystallites, in turn, appear to enhance the generation of Si interstitials through catalytic decomposition of the Si-bearing layers.
In vitro efficacy of N-acetylcysteine on bacteria associated with chronic suppurative otitis media
Authors: Lea Jane , Conlin Anne Elizabeth , Sekirov Inna , Restelli Veronica , Ayakar Komathi G , Turnbull LeeAnn , Doyle Patrick , Noble Michael , Rennie Robert , Schreiber William E , Westerberg Brian D 
Published: July 2014

Background The safety and efficacy of Ciprodex® has been demonstrated for treatment of chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM). However, symptoms fail to resolve in 9-15% of patients. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on S. aureus, and planktonic and sessile (biofilm forming) P. aeruginosa in vitro using clinical isolates from patients with CSOM. Methods 1) Stability was assessed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry for each component in a prepared mixture of Ciprodex® and NAC over 15 days. Sterility was assessed by measuring bacterial growth on a blood agar plate. Efficacy was assessed using a disc diffusion method by inoculating plates with S. aureus ATCC 29513 and P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853, and measuring the clearance zone. 2) Fifteen P. aeruginosa strains were isolated from patients with CSOM and tested in vitro using the bioFILM PA™ antimicrobial susceptibility assay. Treatment solutions included Ciprodex® & ciprofloxacin +/- NAC, and NAC alone (0.25%, 0.5% & 1.25%). Results 1) NAC combined with Ciprodex® demonstrated stability, sterility, and efficacy over a two-week period 2) P. aeruginosa strains in the sessile (33%-40%) and planktonic (13%) state demonstrated resistance to Ciprodex® and ciprofloxacin. When NAC ≥0.5% was used in isolation or as an adjunct to either of these medications, no resistance was found in the sessile or planktonic state among all 15 strains. Conclusion 1) Ciprodex® combined with NAC has a shelf life of at least two weeks given the documented preservation of stability, sterility, and clinical efficacy of the mixed compounds. 2) P. aeruginosa strains demonstrated resistance to both Ciprodex® and ciprofloxacin. NAC ≥0.5% overcomes issues with resistance and shows promise in the treatment of CSOM.
Cerebral inflammation is an underlying mechanism of early death in Alzheimer’s disease: a 13-year cause-specific multivariate mortality study
Authors: Nägga Katarina , Wattmo Carina , Zhang Yi , Wahlund Lars-Olof , Palmqvist Sebastian 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Introduction
Although Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is associated with early death, its life expectancy differs greatly between patients. A better understanding of this heterogeneity may reveal important disease mechanisms underlying the malignancy of AD. The aim of this study was to examine the relation between AD pathologies and early death in AD caused by dementia.

Methods
At a memory clinic, 247 referred consecutive patients with AD were monitored during 12.6 ± 1.6 years. Multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed with baseline measures of amyloid beta (Aβ) pathology (APOE genotype, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Aβ42) tau pathology (CSF phosphorylated tau and total tau), cerebrovascular pathology (white-matter lesions and CSF/serum albumin ratio), neuroinflammatory pathology (CSF soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, sVCAM-1), frontal, temporal, and central brain atrophies, global cognition, sex, and age. Comorbidities and medications also were analyzed. All continuous variables were transformed to z scores to compare hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results
At follow-up, 89% of the patients had died. The mean survival time was 6.4 ± 3.0 years. The AD pathology that independently predicted an early death caused by dementia was cerebral inflammation (sVCAM-1; HR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.07–1.64). Other independent predictors were lower global cognition (HR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.43–0.61), frontal atrophy (HR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.12–1.70), and medial temporal atrophy (HR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.02–1.49). When examining death caused by dementia and related causes (vascular diseases and infections), age (HR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.04–1.46) and cerebrovascular pathology (white-matter lesions: HR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.01–1.36; and CSF/serum albumin ratio: HR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.001–1.34) were also significant risk factors in addition to the previous variables. No comorbidity or medication was significant in the specific-cause models.

Conclusions
This is the first study to link neuroinflammation independently to early death in AD and, hence, a rapidly progressing disease. Frontal and medial temporal atrophies and low cognition were also significant predictors. These are probably downstream biomarkers that reflect neuronal degeneration and late-stage disease. Our results suggest that inflammation, and not amyloid or tau pathology, is an independent underlying mechanism in the malignancy of AD.
Therapeutic benefit of balneotherapy and hydrotherapy in the management of fibromyalgia syndrome: a qualitative systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Naumann Johannes , Sadaghiani Catharina 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Introduction
In the present systematic review and meta-analysis, we assessed the effectiveness of different forms of balneotherapy (BT) and hydrotherapy (HT) in the management of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS).

Methods
A s ystematic literature search was conducted through April 2013 (Medline via Pubmed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, and CAMBASE). Standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model.

Results
Meta-analysis showed moderate-to-strong evidence for a small reduction in pain (SMD −0.42; 95% CI [−0.61, −0.24]; P < 0.00001; I2 = 0%) with regard to HT (8 studies, 462 participants; 3 low-risk studies, 223 participants), and moderate-to-strong evidence for a small improvement in health-related quality of life (HRQOL; 7 studies, 398 participants; 3 low-risk studies, 223 participants) at the end of treatment (SMD −0.40; 95% CI [−0.62, −0.18]; P = 0.0004; I2 = 15%). No effect was seen at the end of treatment for depressive symptoms and tender point count (TPC).
BT in mineral/thermal water (5 studies, 177 participants; 3 high-risk and 2 unclear risk studies) showed moderate evidence for a medium-to-large size reduction in pain and TPC at the end of treatment: SMD −0.84; 95% CI [−1.36, −0.31]; P = 0.002; I2 = 63% and SMD −0.83; 95% CI [−1.42, −0.24]; P = 0.006; I2 = 71%. After sensitivity analysis, and excluding one study, the effect size for pain decreased: SMD −0.58; 95% CI [−0.91, −0.26], P = 0.0004; I2 = 0. Moderate evidence is given for a medium improvement of HRQOL (SMD −0.78; 95% CI [−1.13, −0.43]; P < 0.0001; I2 = 0%). A significant effect on depressive symptoms was not found. The improvements for pain could be maintained at follow-up with smaller effects.

Conclusions
High-quality studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm the therapeutic benefit of BT and HT, with focus on long-term results and maintenance of the beneficial effects.
The interaction between C5a and sphingosine-1-phosphate in neutrophils for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody mediated activation
Authors: Hao Jian , Huang Yi-Min , Zhao Ming-Hui , Chen Min 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Introduction
C5a plays an crucial role in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-mediated neutrophil recruitment and activation. The current study further investigated the interaction between C5a and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) in neutrophils for ANCA-mediated activation.

Methods
The plasma levels of S1P from 29 patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) in active stage and in remission were tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The generation of S1P was tested in C5a-triggered neutrophils. The effect S1P receptor antagonist was tested on respiratory burst and degranulation of C5a-primed neutrophils activated with ANCA.

Results
The plasma level of circulating S1P was significantly higher in patients with AAV with active disease compared with patients in remission (2034.2 ± 438.5 versus 1489.3 ± 547.4 nmol/L, P < 0.001). S1P can prime neutrophils for ANCA-induced respiratory burst and degranulation. Compared with non-triggered neutrophils, the mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) value for CD88 expression was up-regulated significantly in S1P-triggered neutrophils. S1P receptor antagonist decreased oxygen radical production in C5a primed neutrophils induced by ANCA-positive IgG from patients. Blocking S1P inhibited C5a-primed neutrophil migration.

Conclusions
S1P triggered by C5a-primed neutrophils could further activate neutrophils. Blocking S1P could attenuate C5a-induced activation of neutrophils by ANCA. The interaction between S1P and C5a plays an important role in neutrophils for ANCA-mediated activation.
Developing a new generation of breast cancer clinical gene expression tests
Authors: Kos Zuzana , Nielsen Torsten O 
Published: July 2014

AbstractWhen treatment decisions are based purely on clinicopathological factors, many women with estrogen receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative cancers are overtreated. Gene expression profiles are valuable clinical tools that stratify the recurrence risk to identify patients most likely to benefit from adjuvant systemic therapies. Building upon greater understanding of tumor biology and more rigorous approaches to validation (including independent studies with a high level of evidence), several second-generation multigene tests have been developed. In the previous issue, Martin and colleagues report the third clinical validation study for EndoPredict, a distributed assay to assess risk of distant recurrences in estrogen receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative women. The authors confirm the assay’s independent prognostic value in premenopausal and postmenopausal, node-positive women treated with contemporary chemotherapy followed by endocrine therapy. EndoPredict did not, however, predict benefit from adding paclitaxel. Predictive signatures for selecting among chemotherapy regimens remain an area needing further development.
Application of resequencing to rice genomics, functional genomics and evolutionary analysis
Authors: Guo Longbiao , Gao Zhenyu , Qian Qian 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Rice is a model system used for crop genomics studies. The completion of the rice genome draft sequences in 2002 not only accelerated functional genome studies, but also initiated a new era of resequencing rice genomes. Based on the reference genome in rice, next-generation sequencing (NGS) using the high-throughput sequencing system can efficiently accomplish whole genome resequencing of various genetic populations and diverse germplasm resources. Resequencing technology has been effectively utilized in evolutionary analysis, rice genomics and functional genomics studies. This technique is beneficial for both bridging the knowledge gap between genotype and phenotype and facilitating molecular breeding via gene design in rice. Here, we also discuss the limitation, application and future prospects of rice resequencing.
ICG-liver test versus new biomarkers as prognostic markers for prolonged length of stay in critically ill patients - a prospective study of accuracy for prediction of length of stay in the ICU
Authors: Zoller Bernhard , Spanaus Katharina , Gerster Rahel , Fasshauer Mario , Stehberger Paul A , Klinzing Stephanie , Vergopoulos Athanasios , von Eckardstein Arnold , Béchir Markus 
Published: July 2014

Abstract

Background
Prognostic abilities of medical parameters, which are scoring systems, measurements and biomarkers, are important for stratifying critically ill patients. Indocyanine green plasma disappearance (ICG-PDR) is an established clinical tool for the assessment of liver perfusion and function. Copeptin, MR-proANP and pro-ADM are biomarkers whose prognostic value is still unclear. The goal of this prospective study was to evaluate ICG-PDR, copeptin, MR-proANP and pro-ADM to predict prolonged length of stay (pLOS) in the ICU.

Methods
This study was conducted as a prospective single center study including 110 consecutively admitted ICU patients. Primary endpoint was prolonged length of stay (pLOS) in the ICU, defined as more than three days of stay there.

Results
ROC analysis showed an AUC of 0.73 for ICG-PDR, 0.70 for SAPS II, 0.65 for MR-proANP, 0.64 for pro-ADM and 0.54 for copeptin for pLOS in the ICU.

Conclusions
The prediction of pLOS in the ICU might be better by means of ICG-PDR than with the new biomarkers copeptin, MR-proANP or pro-ADM. Nevertheless, there is more need for research to evaluate whether ICG-PDR is an overall prognostic marker for pLOS.

Trial registration
(ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01126554).
Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence from a Spiro-diazafluorene Derivative
Authors: Ohkuma Hiroshi , Nakagawa Tetsuya , Shizu Katsuyuki , Yasuda Takuma , Adachi Chihaya 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
A spiro compound DPAA-AF combining an electron-accepting diazafluorene unit and an electron-donating bis(diphenylamino)acridane unit has been synthesized and used as an emitter in organic light-emitting diodes. DPAA-AF exhibits efficient thermally activated delayed fluorescence, and a device based on this compound emits blue-greenish electroluminescence with a maximum external quantum efficiency of 9.6%.
Continuity Between the Primary and the Secondary Schools as One of the Principles for Biology Education Development
Authors: Калинова  , Kalinova Galina 
Published: July 2014

The paper discusses the pressing problem of how to provide continuity of teaching at the primary and secondary stages of continuous education
process. Using as an example the educational content of the “World Around Us” course for the primary school, designed with respect to cognitive
abilities and cognitive needs of junior school children, the author demonstrates ways and methods to solve the vital task of developing biology
education at the sequent stage of educational process.
Personal Enhancement of Primary School Children at the Elective Class of “Economics: The Baby Steps”
Authors: Корнеева  , Korneeva Olga 
Published: July 2014

The author reveals the potential of economic education in terms of cultivating such personal qualities, as industry, carefulness, generosity,
prudence. “Economics: The Baby Steps” elective class is considered as the source of educational resources and its significance is shown for
developing in primary school children the notions of aid-giving behavior, mercy and responsibility in relation to others.
Test Materials as a Means to Assess Planned Learning Outcomes when Learning the Basic Educational Program of General Primary Education
Authors: Бойко  , Boyko Elena 
Published: July 2014

The author reviews capabilities of testing and assessment activity for tracking meta-object teaching outcomes of junior schoolchildren. Special
attention is given to pedagogical diagnostics of evaluating the degree of development of learning activities components and specifics of final
examination works handling. Means to assess the degree of achieving planned learning outcomes of proficiency of basic educational program of
general primary education are characterized.