bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Connection between November snow cover over Eastern Europe and winter precipitation over East Asia
Authors: Ao Juan , Sun Jianqi 
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACTIn this study, the connected spatial and temporal features of winter precipitation over East Asia and November snow cover over Eurasia are analysed using the singular value decomposition (SVD) method. The results show that a strong consistent variation of winter precipitation occurs over East Asia, especially north of 35°N, closely related to the snow cover change over Eastern Europe. Mechanism analysis indicates that the processes behind the physical link between the November snow cover over Eastern Europe and East Asian winter precipitation are different in December compared to January and February. In December, the persistence of the snow cover anomaly can ‘memorize’ the signal of the November snow cover and impact December circulation and precipitation over East Asia. During January–February, the snow cover anomaly disappears, while the variability of the polar vortex resulting from the interaction of the troposphere and stratosphere serves as a bridge connecting the November snow cover over Eastern Europe and the January–February precipitation over East Asia. Revealing the role of the November snow cover is significant not only for understanding East Asian winter precipitation variability but also for its prediction.
Anomalous T2 relaxation in normal and degraded cartilage
Authors: Reiter David A. , Magin Richard L. , Li Weiguo , Trujillo Juan J. , Pilar Velasco M. , Spencer Richard G. 
Published: September 2015

PurposeTo compare the ordinary monoexponential model with three anomalous relaxation models—the stretched Mittag‐Leffler, stretched exponential, and biexponential functions—using both simulated and experimental cartilage relaxation data.MethodsMonte Carlo simulations were used to examine both the ability of identifying a given model under high signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) conditions and the accuracy and precision of parameter estimates under more modest SNR as would be encountered clinically. Experimental transverse relaxation data were analyzed from normal and enzymatically degraded cartilage samples under high SNR and rapid echo sampling to compare each model.ResultsBoth simulation and experimental results showed improvement in signal representation with the anomalous relaxation models. The stretched exponential model consistently showed the lowest mean squared error in experimental data and closely represents the signal decay over multiple decades of the decay time (e.g., 1–10 ms, 10–100 ms, and >100 ms). The stretched exponential parameter αse showed an inverse correlation with biochemically derived cartilage proteoglycan content.ConclusionExperimental results obtained at high field suggest potential application of αse as a measure of matrix integrity. Simulation reflecting more clinical imaging conditions, indicate the ability to robustly estimate αse and distinguish between normal and degraded tissue, highlighting its potential as a biomarker for human studies. Magn Reson Med 76:953–962, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Generation and storage dispatch in electricity networks with generator disruptions
Authors: Moarefdoost M. Mohsen , Snyder Lawrence V. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractWe present methods for optimizing generation and storage decisions in an electricity network with multiple unreliable generators, each colocated with one energy storage unit (e.g., battery), and multiple loads under power flow constraints. Our model chooses the amount of energy produced by each generator and the amount of energy stored in each battery in every time period in order to minimize power generation and storage costs when each generator faces stochastic Markovian supply disruptions. This problem cannot be optimized easily using stochastic programming and/or dynamic programming approaches. Therefore, in this study, we present several heuristic methods to find an approximate optimal solution for this system. Each heuristic involves decomposing the network into several single‐generator, single‐battery, multiload systems and solving them optimally using dynamic programming, then obtaining a solution for the original problem by recombining. We discuss the computational performance of the proposed heuristics as well as insights gained from the models. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 62: 493–511, 2015
Perceptions of Barriers and Facilitators During Implementation of a Complex Model of Group Prenatal Care in Six Urban Sites
Authors: Novick Gina , Womack Julie A. , Lewis Jessica , Stasko Emily C. , Rising Sharon S. , Sadler Lois S. , Cunningham Shayna C. , Tobin Jonathan N. , Ickovics Jeannette R. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractGroup prenatal care improves perinatal outcomes, but implementing this complex model places substantial demands on settings designed for individual care. To describe perceived barriers and facilitators to implementing and sustaining CenteringPregnancy Plus (CP+) group prenatal care, 24 in‐depth interviews were conducted with 22 clinicians, staff, administrators, and study personnel in six of the 14 sites of a randomized trial of the model. All sites served low‐income, minority women. Sites for the present evaluation were selected for variation in location, study arm, and initial implementation response. Implementing CP+ was challenging in all sites, requiring substantial adaptations of clinical systems. All sites had barriers to meeting the model's demands, but how sites responded to these barriers affected whether implementation thrived or struggled. Thriving sites had organizational cultures that supported innovation, champions who advocated for CP+, and staff who viewed logistical demands as manageable hurdles. Struggling sites had bureaucratic organizational structures and lacked buy‐in and financial resources, and staff were overwhelmed by the model's challenges. Findings suggested that implementing and sustaining health care innovation requires new practices and different ways of thinking, and health systems may not fully recognize the magnitude of change required. Consequently, evidence‐based practices are modified or discontinued, and outcomes may differ from those in the original controlled studies. Before implementing new models of care, clinical settings should anticipate model demands and assess capacity for adapting to the disruptions of innovation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Obesity Paradox: Origin and best way to assess severity in patients with systolic HF
Authors: Pozzo Joffrey , Fournier Pauline , Lairez Olivier , Vervueren Paul‐Louis , Delmas Clement , Elbaz Meyer , Carrie Didier , Galinier Michel , Roncalli Jerome 
Published: September 2015

ObjectiveObesity in patients with heart failure (HF) is a factor of better prognosis, supposedly partly because of the particular epidemiology of HF in this population. This study expected to compare the parameters of severity and mortality in patients with and without obesity, to better understand the origin of this paradox.MethodsTwo hundred twenty‐two patients with nonischemic HF and systolic dysfunction were divided into two groups according to their body mass index (≥30 vs. <30 kg/m2, respectively) and explored for functional parameters and prognosis.ResultsB‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels were lower and peak oxygen consumption higher in patients with obesity. Patients with obesity had a better prognosis than patients without obesity with a 4‐year mortality of 11.1% and 26.4%, respectively (P = 0.009). By univariate analysis, obesity was associated with a reduced risk of death: HR 0.52 [0.28–0.99]. This protective effect was no longer present after adjusting for VO2max and BNP level.ConclusionsThe obesity paradox is probably partly due to an overestimation of the severity of HF in patients with obesity because of the multifactorial nature of their dyspnea. Obesity no longer has a protective effect after adjustment for the usual prognostic parameters of HF.
AssessingFOXO1Aas a potential susceptibility locus for type 2 diabetes and obesity inAmericanIndians
Authors: Muller Yunhua L. , Hanson Robert L. , Wiessner Gregory , Nieboer Lori , Kobes Sayuko , Piaggi Paolo , Abdussamad Mahdi , Okani Chidinma , Knowler William C. , Bogardus Clifton , Baier Leslie J. 
Published: September 2015

ObjectiveA prior genome‐wide association study (GWAS) in Pima Indians identified variation withinFOXO1Athat modestly associated with early‐onset (onset age <25years) type 2 diabetes (T2D).FOXO1Aencodes the forkhead transcription factor involved in pancreatic β‐cell growth and hypothalamic energy balance; therefore,FOXO1Awas analyzed as a candidate gene for T2D and obesity in a population‐based sample of 7,710 American Indians.MethodsTag SNPs in/nearFOXO1A(minor allele frequency≥0.05) were analyzed for association with T2D at early onset (n = 1,060) and all ages (n = 7,710) and with insulin secretion (n = 298). SNPs were also analyzed for association with maximum body mass index (BMI) in adulthood (n = 5,918), maximum BMIz‐score in childhood (n = 5,350), and % body fat (n = 555).ResultsAn intronic SNP rs2297627 associated with early‐onset T2D [OR = 1.34 (1.13‐1.58),P = 8.7 × 10−4] and T2D onset at any age [OR = 1.19 (1.09‐1.30),P = 1 × 10−4]. The T2D risk allele also associated with lower acute insulin secretion (β = 0.88, as a multiplier, P = 0.02). Another intronic SNP (rs1334241,D′ = 0.99,r2 = 0.49 with rs2297627) associated with maximum adulthood BMI (β = 1.02, as a multiplier,P = 3 × 10−5), maximum childhood BMIz‐score (β = 0.08,P = 3 × 10−4), and % body fat (β = 0.83%,P = 0.04).ConclusionsCommon variation inFOXO1Amay modestly affect risk for T2D and obesity in American Indians.
Providing food to treat adolescents at risk for cardiovascular disease
Authors: de Ferranti Sarah D. , Milliren Carly E. , Denhoff Erica Rose , Quinn Nicolle , Osganian Stavroula K. , Feldman Henry A. , Ebbeling Cara B. , Ludwig David S. 
Published: September 2015

ObjectiveDiet modification is recommended to treat childhood cardiovascular (CV) risk factors; however, the optimal dietary strategy is unknown.MethodsIn a randomized trial, the effect of a low‐fat (LF) and a low‐glycemic‐load (LGL) reduced‐calorie diet were examined in youth with overweight/obesity with CV risk factors. Using a novel intervention, we delivered LF or LGL meals and nutrition education to the home for 8 weeks (Intensive Phase), followed by 4 months Maintenance without food provision. Between‐group differences in the change in insulin area under the curve (InsAUC) by oral glucose tolerance test and other risk factors were analyzed.ResultsOverall, participants (n = 27) showed substantial improvement during the Intensive Phase, including InsAUC (−59 ± 18.2 µU/ml × 120 min, P = 0.004), total cholesterol (−9.9 ± 3.6 mg/dl, P = 0.01), weight (−2.7 ± 0.5 kg, P < 0.001), waist circumference (−3.1 ± 0.8 cm, P < 0.001), HOMA‐IR (−1.7 ± 0.4, P < 0.001), systolic blood pressure (−5 ± 1.4 mm Hg, P = 0.002), and CRP (−0.1 ± 0.1 mg/dl, P = 0.04). There were minimal between‐group differences; the LF group showed greater declines in HDL (P = 0.005) and fasting glucose (P = 0.01) compared to the LGL group. Improvements waned during Maintenance.ConclusionsHome delivery of LF or LGL diets resulted in rapid and clinically important improvements in CV risk factors that diminished without food delivery and did not differ based on dietary intervention. If scalable, food provision may represent an alternative nutrition treatment strategy.
Improving complex medical care while awaiting next‐generation CFTR potentiators and correctors: The current pipeline of therapeutics
Authors: Goralski Jennifer L. , Davis Stephanie D. 
Published: September 2015

SummaryWhile a major target in cystic fibrosis (CF) research in recent years has been the development of corrector and potentiator drugs targeting the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein, these therapies have not yet proven robust enough to replace or eliminate other therapies that have demonstrated improved health outcomes and quality of life in patients with CF. Further, ivacaftor is only indicated for approximately 5% of the US CF population, although the FDA has recently approved lumacaftor/ivacaftor, a combination therapy intended for those homozygous for Phe508del, which should reach a much larger number of patients. This review appraises therapeutics currently available or being studied while we await the next generation of CFTR potentiators and correctors. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:S66–S73. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sexual Problems among Japanese Women: Data from an Online Helpline
Authors: Ozaki Yumi , Nagao Koichi , Saigo Rieko , Tai Toshihiro , Tanaka Norie , Kobayashi Hideyuki , Nakajima Koichi , Takahashi Yoshimitsu 
Published: September 2015

Abstract

Introduction
Sexual problems have been more prevalent among East Asian women than those from other areas of the world. However, Japanese women seldom tend to consult their treating physicians as such intimate problems are socially awkward topics to share and may be considered shameful. Presently, there is little data in the literature regarding women's sexual problems in Japan.

Aims
We aimed (i) to investigate the types of sexual problems that were reported among Japanese women who had sought online consultations; and (ii) to examine whether factors such as age and family structure (marital status and presence of children) increased the likelihood of sexual problems.

Methods
An online helpline received a total of 316 messages from Japanese women related to sexual problems over a 3-year period. We evaluated 276 respondents, who provided demographic information such as age and family structure as well as their response to an open-ended question regarding their sexual problems.

Main Outcome Measures
Main outcome measures were the types of sexual problems reported by Japanese women.

Results
The majority of respondents were in their 30s (53.6%). Sexual aversion accounted for 42.4% of the complaints, partners' sexual issues for 18.5%, and pain during sex for 16.7%. Family structure significantly correlated with sexual problems (P &lt; 0.001). Women with sexual aversion were more likely to be younger (P = 0.003) and have children (P &lt; 0.001). Women whose partners had sexual issues were more likely to be married (P &lt; 0.001) and have no children (P &lt; 0.001). Women who reported pain during sex were more likely to have no children (P = 0.006).

Conclusion
Sexual aversion was the most common sexual problem among Japanese women who sought help via the online helpline. Family structure was related to sexual problems. More detailed assessments of family structure may be important in better identifying the triggering causes of the reported sexual problems.
Long‐term pattern of population dynamics in the field vole from central Europe: cyclic pattern with amplitude dampening
Authors: Gouveia Ana , Bejček Vladimír , Flousek Jiří , Sedláček František , Šťastný Karel , Zima Jan , Yoccoz Nigel G. , Stenseth Nils Chr. , Tkadlec Emil 
Published: September 2015

AbstractThe subject of population cycles is regarded as controversial due to a number of unsettled questions such as whether or not cyclic patterns are governed by the same processes at high and low latitudes in Europe. Recent evidence suggests that the dynamics at high and low latitudes share the common temporal pattern of vole dynamics referred to as collapsing population cycles. Despite concurrent interest, the key contention around the causal mechanisms that drive population cycles remains a hot topic in ecology. The aims of this study are to supplement information on the seasonal population dynamics of the field vole Microtus agrestis in the Czech Republic by analysing 25 years of time series data. By applying robust estimation procedures, we estimated several parameters to describe population dynamics, such as population variability, amplitude dampening, cycle period, order of the dynamics and the structure of density dependence. The parameters indicate that field vole dynamics in central Europe are highly variable, cyclic dynamics of order two, with peaks in abundance occurring regularly at intervals of 4–5 years. In addition to exhibiting population cycles, the field vole populations show a pattern of dampened amplitude as observed elsewhere in Europe, including northern latitudes. By analysing temporal trends in seasonal abundances, population growth rates and environmental temperatures, we did not obtain evidence to support the hypothesis that amplitude dampening results from the negative effect of increasingly mild winters on winter population growth rates.
Drivers of local densities of endangeredLycaena hellebutterflies in a fragmented landscape
Authors: Nabielec Joanna , Nowicki Piotr 
Published: September 2015

AbstractDue to their specialised habitat requirements, butterflies are particularly vulnerable to habitat loss and fragmentation. Understanding the drivers of local abundances of species is essential for their effective conservation in fragmented landscapes. We investigated factors affecting population densities of an endangered European butterfly, the Violet Copper (Lycaena helle), occurring in a small metapopulation near the city of Kraków, southern Poland. The environmental parameters tested as predictors of the local densities of the species included both the variables associated with spatial structure of habitats such as patch sizes, their isolation and fragmentation as well as those potentially reflecting habitat quality. Patch area and vegetation height turned out to be the only factors significantly influencingL. helledensities, both having a positive effect. The positive impact of patch area is a bit surprising, since its relationship with population densities is typically negative in butterflies. In our study system it is likely to derive from source‐sink dynamics as the smaller habitat patches are apparently too small to sustain viable local populations. In turn, the positive influence of vegetation height implies that the ongoing succession does not deteriorate the quality of the recently abandoned meadows yet, whereas higher turf may provide better sheltering places. The loss of almost half ofL. hellehabitat patches in the study area in recent years is alarming. However, its inclusion into the Natura 2000 system should help to conserve the species as long as this act is followed by proper management of its habitats.
Cost-effectiveness of a physician-nurse supplementary triage assessment team at an academic tertiary care emergency department
Authors: Cheng Ivy , Castren Maaret , Kiss Alex , Zwarenstein Merrick , Brommels Mats , Mittmann Nicole 
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACTObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of physician-nurse supplementary triage assistance team (MDRNSTAT) from a hospital and patient perspective.MethodsThis was a cost-effectiveness evaluation of a cluster randomized control trial comparing the MDRNSTAT with nurse-only triage in the emergency department (ED) between the hours of 0800 and 1500. Cost was MDRNSTAT salary. Revenue was from Ontario’s Pay-for-Results and patient volume-case mix payment programs. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was based on MDRNSTAT cost and three consequence assessments: 1) per additional patient-seen; 2) per physician initial assessment (PIA) hour saved; and 3) per ED length of stay (EDLOS) hour saved. Patient opportunity cost was determined. Patient satisfaction was quantified by a cost-benefit ratio. A sensitivity analysis extrapolating MDRNSTAT to different working hours, salary, and willingness-to-pay data was performed.ResultsThe added cost of the MDRNSTAT was $3,597.27 [$1,729.47 to ∞] per additional patient-seen, $75.37 [$67.99 to $105.30] per PIA hour saved, and $112.99 [$74.68 to $251.43] per EDLOS hour saved. From the hospital perspective, the cost-benefit ratio was 38.6 [19.0 to ∞] and net present value of –$447,996 [–$435,646 to –$459,900]. For patients, the cost-benefit ratio for satisfaction was 2.8 [2.3 to 4.6]. If MDRNSTAT performance were consistently implemented from noon to midnight, it would be more cost-effective.ConclusionsThe MDRNSTAT is not a cost-effective daytime strategy but appears to be more feasible during time periods with higher patient volume, such as late morning to evening.
Brain Tissue Oxygenation in Patients with Septic Shock: a Feasibility Study
Authors: Wood Michael , Song Andy , Maslove David , Ferri Cathy , Howes Daniel , Muscedere John , Boyd J Gordon 
Published: September 2015

AbstractBackground: Delirium is common in critically ill patients and its presence is associated with increased mortality and increased likelihood of poor cognitive function among survivors. However, the cause of delirium is unknown. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to assess brain tissue oxygenation in patients with septic shock, who are at high risk of developing delirium. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in a 33-bed general medical surgical intensive care unit (ICU). Patients with severe sepsis or septic shock were eligible for recruitment. The FORESIGHT NIRS monitor was used to assess brain tissue oxygenation in the frontal lobes for the first 72 hours of ICU admission. Physiological data was also recorded. We used the Confusion Assessment Method-ICU to screen for delirium.Results: From March 1st 2014-September 30th 2014, 10 patients with septic shock were recruited. The NIRS monitor captured 81% of the available data. No adverse events were recorded. Brain tissue oxygenation demonstrated significant intra- and inter-individual variability in the way it correlated with physiological parameters, such as mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and peripheral oxygen saturation. Mean brain tissue oxygen levels were significantly lower in patients who were delirious for the majority of their ICU stay. Conclusion: It is feasible to record brain tissue oxygenation with NIRS in patients with septic shock. This study provides the infrastructure necessary for a larger prospective observational study to further examine the relationship between brain tissue oxygenation, physiological parameters, and acute neurological dysfunction.
An Ottoman response to Darwinism: İsmail Fennî on Islam and evolution
Authors: BILGILI ALPER 
Published: September 2015

AbstractThe Scopes trial (1925) fuelled discussion in the United States on the social and political implications of Darwinism. For the defenders of the 1925 Tennessee law – which prohibited the teaching of Darwinism in schools – Darwinism was, amongst other things, responsible for the German militarism which eventually led to the First World War. This view was supported by İsmail Fennî, a late Ottoman intellectual, who authored a book immediately after the trial which aimed to debunk scientific materialism. In it, he claimed that Darwinism blurred the distinction between man and beast and thus destroyed the foundations of morality. However, despite his anti-Darwinist stance, İsmail Fennî argued against laws forbidding the teaching of Darwinism in schools, and emphasized that even false theories contributed to scientific improvement. Indeed, because of his belief in science he claimed that Muslims should not reject Darwinism if it were supported by future scientific evidence. If this turned out to be the case, then religious interpretations should be revised accordingly. This article contributes to the literature on early Muslim reactions to Darwinism by examining the views of İsmail Fennî, which were notably sophisticated when compared with those of the anti-religious Darwinist and anti-Darwinist religious camps that dominated late Ottoman intellectual life.