bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
New Polarimetric Radar Algorithm for Melting-Layer Detection and Determination of Its Height
Authors: Ryzhkov Alexander , Krause John 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
A novel polarimetric radar algorithm for melting-layer (ML) detection and determination of its height has been developed and tested for a large number of cold-season weather events. The algorithm uses radial profiles of the cross-correlation coefficient (ρhv or CC) at the lowest elevation angles (<5°–6°). The effects of beam broadening on the spatial distribution of CC have been taken into account via theoretical simulations of the radial profiles of CC assuming intrinsic vertical profiles of polarimetric radar variables within the ML with varying heights and depths of the ML. The model radial profiles of CC and their key parameters are stored in lookup tables and compared with the measured CC profiles. The matching of the model and measured CC radial profiles allows the algorithm to determine the “true” heights of the top and bottom of the ML, Ht and Hb, at distances up to 150 km from the radar. Integrating the CC information from all available antenna elevations makes it possible to produce accurate maps of Ht and Hb over large areas of radar coverage as opposed to the previous ML detection methods including the existing algorithm implemented on the U.S. network of the WSR-88Ds. The initial version of the algorithm has been implemented in C++ and tested for a multitude of cold-season weather events characterized by a low ML with different degrees of spatial nonuniformity including cases with sharp frontal boundaries and rain–snow transitions. The new ML detection algorithm (MLDA) exhibits robust performance, demonstrating spatial and temporal continuity, and showing general consistency of the ML designations matching those obtained from the regional model and the quasi-vertical profiles (QVP) methodology output.
Use of Power Transform Total Number Concentration as Control Variable for Direct Assimilation of Radar Reflectivity in GSI En3DVar and Tests with Six Convective Storms Cases
Authors: Li Huiqi , Liu Chengsi , Xue Ming , Park Jun , Chen Lianglyu , Jung Youngsun , Kong Rong , Tong Chong-Chi 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
When using a double-moment microphysics scheme, both hydrometeor mixing ratios and number concentrations are part of the state variables that are needed to initialize convective-scale forecasting. In the Thompson microphysics scheme, both mixing ratio and total number concentration of rainwater (Ntr) are predicted and they are also involved in the reflectivity observation operator. In such a case, when directly assimilating reflectivity using Ntr as the control variable (denoted as CVnr) within a variational framework, the large dynamic range of Ntr and the nonlinear relationship between reflectivity and Ntr prevent efficient minimization convergence. Using logarithmic Ntr as the control variable (CVlognr) alleviates the problem to some extent but can produce spurious analysis increments in Ntr. In this study, a general power transform of Ntr is proposed as the new control variable for Ntr (CVpnr) where the nonlinearity of transform can be adjusted by tuning the exponent parameter. This formulation is implemented within the Gridpoint Statistical Interpolation ensemble-3DVar system. The performance of CVpnr with an optimal exponent parameter value of 0.4 is compared with those of CVnr and CVlognr for the analysis and prediction of a supercell case of 16 May 2017 in more detail. CVpnr with optimal exponent yields faster convergence of cost function minimization than CVnr. Subjective and objective evaluations of analyzed and predicted reflectivity and hourly precipitation indicate that the optimized CVpnr outperforms the other two methods. When applied to five additional cases from May 2017, overall statistics show that CVpnr produces generally superior forecasts and is therefore the preferred choice.
Effect of Automating Procedural Work on Situation Awareness and Workload
Authors: Schreckenghost Debra , Holden Kritina , Greene Maya , Milam Tod , Hamblin Chris 
Published: January 2022

Objective In future deep space exploration missions, crew will have to work more autonomously from Earth. Greater crew autonomy will increase dependence on automated systems. This study investigates the performance effects of different strategies to automate procedural work for space exploration operations. Background The following strategies are investigated for performing procedural work: •  Manual Work uses no procedure automation and crew performs all actions. •  Shared Work uses procedure automation to perform some actions within a procedure while crew performs other actions. •  Supervised Work uses procedure automation to perform procedure actions while crew supervises the automation. Method Twenty-seven participants participated in a planetary habitat scenario-based simulation using electronic procedures with automatable actions to investigate the effect of these strategies on situation awareness (SA) and workload. This study used a modification of the Situation Presence Assessment Method to measure SA and the Bedford Workload Scale to measure subjective workload. Results Mean response times and accuracy for SA queries show no significant difference among the three strategies. Bedford Workload ratings compared across the three strategies indicate that participants rated their workload as highest in the Manual Work condition, followed by the Shared Work condition, and lowest in the Supervised Work condition. Conclusion The study hypothesized that increased levels of automation would lead to lower subjective workload and decreased SA. Although no significant difference in SA was observed, subjective workload was lower in automation strategies. Based on subjective ratings, 93% of participants preferred some form of automation, with 56% preferring the Shared Work automation condition.
The Effectiveness of an Online Learning Strategy on Changing Physical Activity Counseling Practice in Nurses
Authors: Karvinen Kristina H. , Reed Treva 
Published: January 2022

Background Nurses may be well poised for providing physical activity guidance and support to patients. Purpose The purposes of this study were to examine the effectiveness of a concise, evidence based online learning modules strategy (OLMS) for improving nurses’ physical activity counselling. Methods 68 nurses were randomly assigned to either an OLMS group or control group. The OLMS group completed a series of six online learning modules aimed at improving physical activity counselling practice. Results The OLMS group, compared to the control group, showed a trend for improvement in Physical Activity Counselling Practice ( p = .063) after controlling for baseline values, and significant improvement in (a) Self-efficacy for Physical Activity Counselling ( p = .001), (b) Knowledge of Physical Activity Guidelines, ( p = .031), and (c) Perceived Benefits of Physical Activity Counselling ( p = .014) over the course of the intervention. No significant change was found for Barriers for Providing Physical Activity Counselling ( p > .05). Conclusions The OLMS tested may be an effective means for improving self-efficacy, knowledge, and perceived benefits of physical activity counselling, suggesting the utility of online learning strategies for improving nurses’ physical activity counselling practice. Given barriers to providing physical activity counselling were not affected by the intervention, future interventions and policy change could target these barriers specifically in order to give nurses more tools and time for reaching patients and addressing physical activity counselling in practice.
The decline and fall of the Australian automotive industry
Authors: Conley Tom 
Published: January 2022

AbstractThis article assesses the historical political economy of the Australian automotive industry alongside the paradigmatic policy shift in economic policy away from protection towards neoliberalism and globalisation. It focuses on the politics of policy change and government assistance, providing a detailed historical narrative of the development and decline of the Australian automotive industry. From the mid-1980s to the mid-2010s, policy-makers oversaw the decline and fall of the Australian automotive industry. The process of decline occurred within a long-term cycle of new assistance, declining protection, new investment, inadequate restructuring, weak profitability, declining market share, and new assistance. Each cycle, however, was unable to stave off renewed crisis and eventual demise. Over the same period, Australian policy-makers transformed the economy from one of the most protectionist in the developed world to one of the most open. The article outlines the impact of neoliberalism on the automotive industry and analyses what the decline of the industry tells us about how the neoliberal policy structure operates in the ‘actually existing’ political economy. It argues that while the burgeoning neoliberal policy structure in the 1980s and 1990s acted to restrict the range of policy choices available for restructuring the industry, the domestic politics of industry assistance acted to restrict the neoliberal colonisation of the policy agenda. Neoliberal governance has had to contend with political imperatives for continuing assistance, while, at the same time, those political imperatives have been increasingly shaped by neoliberalism.
Detection of plasma complement and immune globulin in different sorts of glaucoma
Authors: Chen Jiabao , Jiang Chunxia , Huang Qinying , Lin Xiaoxuan , Wu Wencan , Li Jinying 
Published: January 2022

Purpose To compare the plasma immune globulin and complement levels in different sorts of glaucoma to assess its association. Methods Cohort study. Plasma samples were collected from 226 normal controls and 236 glaucoma patients included 92 with acute primary angle-closure glaucoma (APACG), 76 with chronic primary angle-closure glaucoma (CPACG), 68 with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). 163 glaucoma patients with high intraocular pressure(IOP) was classified as a subgroup. Six indexes were analyzed: C3, C4, CH50, IgA, IgG, and IgM. Results There was a significant difference in C4, IgA, IgG, and IgM between patients with high IOP and normal controls groups( P < 0.01). TheC4 (0.27 ± 0.69 g/L), IgA (3.11 ± 1.04 g/L), IgG (12.07 ± 1.92 g/L) and IgM (1.17 ± 0.49 g/L) were higher( P < 0.05) in the high IOP groups compared with the normal controls (C4:0.25 ± 0.07 g/L, IgA: 2.54 ± 1.07 g/L, IgG: 11.21 ± 2.22 g/L, IgM:0.99 ± 0.41 g/L). There was a significant difference in age, C3, IgA, IgG, and IgM among the normal control, APACG, CPACG, and POAG. The C3 level in the APACG group (1.14 ± 0.16 g/L) was higher than normal group (1.06 ± 0.18 g/L). The IgA level was lower(P < 0.05) in the normal group (2.54 ± 1.07 g/L) compared with APACG (3.16 ± 0.97 g/L) and POAG group (2.91 ± 1.11 g/L). The IgG level of normal controls (11.21 ± 2.22 g/L) was lower (P < 0.05) than APACG group (12.15 ± 2.02 g/L) and CPACG group (11.95 ± 2.28 g/L). The IgM level was lower(P < 0.05) in the normal group (0.99 ± 0.41 g/L) compared with the APACG (1.24 ± 0.66 g/L) and CPACG group (1.17 ± 0.45 g/L). Conclusions The levels of the plasma expression of C3, IgA, IgG, IgM may be useful for discriminating the glaucoma patients and for assessing the progress of glaucoma in different sorts.
Orbital Atherectomy Prior to Drug-Coated Balloon Angioplasty in Calcified Infrapopliteal Lesions: A Randomized, Multicenter Pilot Study
Authors: Zeller Thomas , Giannopoulos Stefanos , Brodmann Marianne , Werner Martin , Andrassy Martin , Schmidt Andrej , Blessing Erwin , Tepe Gunnar , Armstrong Ehrin J. 
Published: January 2022

Purpose: Optimal balloon angioplasty for infrapopliteal lesions is often limited by severe calcification, which has been associated with decreased procedural success and lower long-term patency. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective, randomized, multicenter pilot trial that included adult subjects with calcified lesions located from the popliteal segment below the knee (BTK) joint to within 5 cm above the ankle with ≥70% diameter stenosis by angiography. Patients were randomized 1:1 to undergo orbital atherectomy (OA) with adjunctive drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty versus plain balloon angioplasty (BA) and DCB angioplasty (control). The periprocedural and 12 month outcomes of both procedures were compared. Results: Overall, 66 subjects (OA + DCB = 32 vs control = 34) were included in an intention to treat analysis. Baseline demographics and lesion characteristics were well-balanced. The mean lesion length was 101.3 mm (SD = 72.8 mm) and 78.8 (SD = 61.0 mm) in the OA + DCB and control groups, respectively, with almost all lesions having severe calcification per the Peripheral Academic Research Consortium (PARC) criteria. Chronic total occlusions (CTOs) were present in 43.8% and 35.3% of the patients in the OA + DCB and control groups, respectively. The technical success of OA + DCB versus DCB was 81.8% and 89.2%, respectively, with 3 slow flow/no reflow, 1 perforation, 1 severe dissection occurred in OA + DCB group, and one distal embolization occurred in the control group. The target lesion primary patency rate was numerically higher in the OA + DCB versus control group at 6 (88.2% vs 50.0%, p=0.065) and 12 month follow-up (88.2% vs 54.5%, p=0.076). The 12 month freedom from major adverse events, clinically-driven target lesion revascularization, major amputation, and all-cause mortality rates were similar between both groups. Conclusion: The results of the Orbital Vessel PreparaTIon to MaximIZe Dcb Efficacy in Calcified BTK (OPTIMIZE BTK) pilot study indicated that utilization of OA + DCB is safe for infrapopliteal disease. Further prospective adequately powered studies should investigate the potential benefit of combined OA + DCB for BTK lesions.
Effect of Tendon Strip (FCR vs APL) on Outcome of CMC Thumb Joint Arthroplasty With Pyrocarbon Disk Interposition
Authors: van Laarhoven Cecile Maria Cornelia Agnes , Tong Marcus Chen Yee , van Heijl Mark , Schuurman Arnold Herman , van der Heijden Brigitte Egeberta Petronella Adriana 
Published: January 2022

Background: Pyrocarbon disk interposition for carpometacarpal (CMC) thumb joint osteoarthritis can be performed with a flexor carpi radialis (FCR) or abductor pollicis longus (APL) tendon strip. With the FCR technique, a ligament reconstruction is performed in addition to disk fixation, whereas with the APL technique the disk is simply secured in place. Our aim is to compare long-term postoperative outcomes between both techniques. Methods: In this observational study, we included 106 patients in 2 centers operated on between 2006 and 2011. We assigned patients to the FCR group or the APL group based on the respective tendon strip used. As a primary outcome, we analyzed postoperative key pinch. In addition, we analyzed postoperative tip pinch and tripod pinch, grip strength, range of motion, thumb height maintenance, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Results: The analysis showed clinically important stronger key pinch for the APL group (β = 1.28 kg). Tip pinch and grip strength showed higher outcome for the FCR group (β = 1.22 kg and 5.14 kg, respectively). Palmar abduction was in favor of the FCR group and opposition in favor of the APL group, but these were interpreted as not clinically relevant. Radiological thumb height maintenance and PROMs showed no clinical difference. Conclusions: Pyrocarbon disk interposition arthroplasty for CMC thumb joint osteoarthritis can be secured with an APL or FCR tendon strip. At long-term follow-up, use of an APL tendon strip results in significantly higher key pinch and better opposition. Tip pinch, grip strength, and palmar abduction were better after use of the FCR tendon strip. The choice of the tendon strip can be based on outcomes considered most important for the individual patient.
The utility of bandemia in prognostication and prediction of mortality in sepsis
Authors: Prasanna Nivedita , DelPrete Benjamin , Ho Geoffrey , Yamane David , Elshikh Amira , Rashed Amir , Sparks Andrew , Davison Danielle , Hawkins Katrina 
Published: January 2022

Background: Bandemia, defined as a band count >10%, is indicative of underlying infection and is increasingly being used for early detection of sepsis. While an absolute band level has been linked to worse outcomes, its trend has not been extensively studied as a prognostic marker. In this study, we assessed patients admitted to the ICU with sepsis or septic shock and evaluated the correlation between bandemia trends and clinical trajectory among these patients. Methods: This study was a retrospective chart review. Band counts, serum lactate levels, and SOFA scores at 0 and 72 h after admission to the ICU were collected. Patients were risk stratified into groups depending on their SOFA trends, and corresponding band trends and serum lactate levels were compared. Results: 134 patients were included for analysis. There was a statistically significant decrease in bandemia trends for patients with a reduction in SOFA scores [median (IQR)−4.5 (−11, 0); p < 0.0001], and a statistically significant increase in bandemia trends for patients with worsening SOFA scores [median (IQR) 4 (0, 8); p = 0.0007]. Conclusion: Early trends of serum band levels in patients with sepsis or septic shock may help to predict a clinical trajectory and overall prognosis. More investigation is warranted as to whether incorporating bandemia trends, when used in conjunction with other known markers such as lactate levels, may help to guide bedside clinical decisions such as risk stratification, tailored therapies, and ultimately improve outcomes.
When Less is More: Minimally Invasive, Evidence-Based Treatments for Dentine Caries in Primary Teeth – The Hall Technique and Silver Diamine Fluoride
Authors: Al-Yaseen Waraf , Seifo Nassar , Bhatia Shannu , Innes Nicola 
Published: January 2022

Evidence supports minimally invasive dentistry, and we have a better understanding of dental caries as a biofilm-mediated disease. These factors, together with the current need to reduce aerosol generation, make treatment approaches such as the Hall Technique and the use of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) more relevant than ever. Successful treatment planning depends on carious lesions being detected, their status accurately assessed, and a correct diagnosis made. Choosing the most appropriate treatment options for the tooth and child relies on marrying this with a precise history and an understanding of indications and contraindications for treatments. This article outlines the optimal use of the Hall Technique and SDF, allowing dental practitioners and therapists to use these modalities as less invasive approaches to provide the highest quality treatment for children with dental caries; less is more.
Determinants of oral rehydration salt utilization among under-five children with diarrhea in Ethiopia: A multilevel mixed-effect analysis
Authors: Girma Desalegn , Abita Zinie , Wale Alemnew , Fetene Gossa 
Published: January 2022

Background: Oral rehydration salt therapy is a critical intervention to reduce mortality and morbidity of children with diarrheal diseases. However, it remains underused in low- and middle-income countries. In Ethiopia, only less than half of children with diarrheal diseases were treated with oral rehydration salt solution. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify the determinants of oral rehydration salt utilization among children with diarrhea in Ethiopia. Method: A secondary data analysis was done using the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey. A weighted sample of 1227 children who had diarrhea in the last 2 weeks with their index mothers during the 5 years survey was included in the study. A multilevel mixed logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with oral rehydration salt utilization. Finally, statistical significance was declared at p-value < 0.05. Result: The overall prevalence of oral rehydration salt utilization for children with diarrhea was 29.5%. In this study, age of mother ⩾35 (adjusted odds ratio = 1.66, 95% confidence interval = 1.05, 2.64), mothers with formal education (adjusted odds ratio = 1.52, 95% confidence interval = 1.09, 2.11), media exposure (adjusted odds ratio = 1.72, 95% confidence interval = 1.25, 2.38), living in Metropolitan regions (Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa (adjusted odds ratio = 1.76, 95% confidence interval = 1.14, 2.69)), and small peripheral regions (Afar, Gambela, Somalia, Benishangul-Gumuz (adjusted odds ratio = 1.69, 95% confidence interval = 1.22, 2.34)) were associated with higher odd of oral rehydration salt utilization for children with diarrhea. Conclusion: The study concludes that the age of mothers, educational status of the mother, media exposure, and regions of mothers were determinants of oral rehydration salt utilization for children with diarrhea. Therefore, media advertising regarding diarrhea management should be scaled up to increase oral rehydration salt utilization for children with diarrhea. Special attention to socio-cultural constraints or beliefs regarding diarrhea management should be given to mothers from large to center (Tigray, Amhara, Oromia, Southern Nations Nationalities, and People’s Region, and Harari) regions.
Comparison of the effectiveness of an e-health program versus a home rehabilitation program in patients with chronic low back pain: A double blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lara-Palomo Inmaculada Carmen , Antequera-Soler Eduardo , Matarán-Peñarrocha Guillermo A , Fernández-Sánchez Manuel , García-López Héctor , Castro-Sánchez Adelaida María , Aguilar-Ferrándiz María Encarnación 
Published: January 2022

Objetive We conducted a randomized double blind clinical trial, to compare the effectiveness of McKenzie exercises and electroanalgesia via an e-Health program versus a home rehabilitation program on functionality, pain, fear of movement and quality of life in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain. Methods Seventy-four participants with non-specific chronic low back pain were randomized to either the e- Health program group (n = 39) or the home rehabilitation program group (n = 35). The interventions consisted of the e-Health program group performing McKenzie exercises and received transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, while the home rehabilitation group attended an information session to explain the exercises, which they then performed at home with printed instructions. Both groups performed 3 weekly sessions for 8 weeks. The following were analyzed main measures: pain, disability, fear of movement, quality of life, trunk muscle endurance and trunk anteflexion motion were assessed at baseline and at 2 months. Results Independent samples Student’s t-tests showed that although the patients who followed the e-Health program showed significantly greater improvement than those who followed the home disability rehabilitation program in terms of intensity of pain, lumbar flexion mobility ( P < 0.001), and the following dimensions of quality of life ( P < 0.005), both groups improved significantly in the immediate post-treatment follow up compared with baseline scores. Conclusions Patients with chronic low back pain who followed an unsupervised home intervention supported by an individualized video exercise program showed greater post-treatment improvement than those who followed the same program with printed instructions.