bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
William Penny Brookes (1809–1895): forgotten Olympic Lord of the Rings: Figure 1
Authors: Ashrafian H
Published: November 2005

The contribution of Dr William Penny Brookes (1809–1895) to the Olympic Games is scarcely reported in the medical literature. Presented here is a brief report of his life and work. Furthermore, the need to promote public health and fitness through the Olympics is re-emphasised.
An exercise programme for the management of lateral elbow tendinopathy
Authors: Stasinopoulos D , Stasinopoulou K , Johnson M I
Published: November 2005

Background:Home exercise programmes and exercise programmes carried out in a clinical setting are commonly advocated for the treatment of lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET), a very common lesion of the arm with a well-defined clinical presentation. The aim of this study is to describe the use and effects of strengthening and stretching exercise programmes in the treatment of LET.

Eccentric exercises:Slow progressive eccentric exercises for LET should be performed with the elbow in extension, forearm in pronation, and wrist in extended position (as high as possible). However, it is unclear how the injured tendon, which is loaded eccentrically, returns to the starting position without experiencing concentric loading and how the “slowness” of eccentric exercises should be defined. Nor has the treatment regimen of the eccentric exercises of a supervised exercise programme been defined.

Stretching exercises:Static stretching is defined as passively stretching a given muscle-tendon unit by slowly placing and maintaining it in a maximal position of stretch. We recommend the position should be held for 30–45 s, three times before and three times after eccentric exercises during each treatment session with a 30 s rest interval between each procedure. The treatment region of static stretching exercises when a supervised exercise programme is performed is unknown.

Discussion:A well designed trial is needed to study the effectiveness of a supervised exercise programme for LET consisting of eccentric and static stretching exercises. The issues relating to the supervised exercise programme should be defined so that therapists can replicate the programme.
MATTER-DENSITY DISTRIBUTION IN DEUTERON AND DIFFRACTION DEUTERON-NUCLEUS INTERACTION
Authors: BEREZHNOY YU. A. , YU. KORDA V. , GAKH A. G.
Published: November 2005

We obtained a nonrelativistic deuteron wave function that accounts for the D-state and has correct asymptotic behavior. This was achieved on the basis of the experimentally measured charge and quadrupole deuteron form factors. The differential cross section of the elastic deuteron-nucleus scattering has been calculated by using this wave function. These predictions agree with the experimental data at the energy of 110 MeV. The integrated cross sections of the various processes involving the deuteron-nucleus interactions were also calculated.
STUDY OF STATISTICAL EMISSIONS IN 28Si+natSi AND 28Si+27Al REACTIONS AT 4–5 MeV/A INCIDENT ENERGIES
Authors: BASU CHINMAY , ADHIKARI S. , GHOSH S. K. , BASU P. , RAY S. , BEHERA B. R. , DATTA S. K.
Published: November 2005

We measure the energy spectra of α-particles and protons in 28 Si + nat Si and 28 Si +27 Al reactions at 4–5 MeV/A for both forward and backward angles. We show with a statistical model that the choice of the level density parameter plays a very crucial role in explainning the evaporation spectra. The shell corrected Gilbert Cameron level density parameter is found to give satisfactory results.
TANGENTIAL VELOCITY AND HALO EFFECTS IN THE 9Li+p AND 11Li+p ELASTIC SCATTERINGS
Authors: KIM YONG JOO , CHA MOON HOE
Published: November 2005

We present the Coulomb-modified eikonal model formalism based on a hyperbolic trajectory by using a tangential velocity at the distance of closest approach. By assuming that 11 Li has a halo structure of two weakly bound neutrons around the 9 Li core, we take the total nuclear optical potential as a sum of the core and the two halo neutrons. The theoretical calculations for the elastic scattering of 9 Li + p and 11 Li + p at E lab /A=60 and 62 MeV, respectively are in good agreements with the observed data. It is found that the break-up effect of halo neutrons and the tangential velocity at the distance of closest approach are both important to understand the elastic cross sections of 11 Li + p system at E lab /A=62 MeV .
ππ REACTION IN NON-RELATIVISTIC QUARK MODEL
Authors: SUEBKA P. , KOBDAJ C. , YAN Y.
Published: November 2005

The reaction π+π-→π+π- is studied in the non-relativistic quark model with the 3P0 quark–antiquark dynamics. The cross section of the reaction π+π-→π+π- is well reproduced even for rather high energies.
MASS SPECTRUM OF THE JP=1/2- AND 3/2- PENTAQUARK ANTIDECUPLETS IN THE PERTURBATIVE CHIRAL QUARK MODEL
Authors: INOUE T. , LYUBOVITSKIJ V. E. , GUTSCHE TH. , FAESSLER AMAND
Published: November 2005

We study the recently discovered Θ+ baryon in the context of the perturbative chiral quark model. The basic configuration of the Θ+ is a pentaquark bound state, where the single particle wave functions are the ground state solutions of a confining potential. We classify the resulting pentaquark multiplets as the JP=1/2- and 3/2- flavor SU (3) antidecuplet. The full mass spectrum of the multiplets is determined by including the meson and gluon cloud contributions, which induce flavor SU (3) breaking. The resulting 3/2- antidecuplet is about 185 MeV heavier than the 1/2- one, mainly because of the semi-perturbative gluon effects. We assign the observed Θ+ baryon as a member of the 1/2- antidecuplet and discuss in particular its relation to the recent experimental signal for a Ξ-- baryon.
Identification of a QTL on chromosome 1 for impaired autoregulation of RBF in fawn-hooded hypertensive rats
Authors: López Bernardo , Ryan Robert P. , Moreno Carol , Sarkis Albert , Lazar Jozef , Provoost Abraham P. , Jacob Howard J. , Roman Richard J.
Published: November 2005

The present study evaluated whether the impairment in autoregulation of renal blood flow (RBF) in the fawn-hooded Hypertensive (FHH) rat colocalizes with the Rf-1 region on chromosome 1 that has been previously linked to the development of proteinuria in this strain. Autoregulation of RBF was measured in FHH and a consomic strain (FHH.1BN) in which chromosome 1 from the Brown-Norway (BN) rat was introgressed into the FHH genetic background. The autoregulation indexes (AI) averaged 0.80 ± 0.08 in the FHH and 0.19 ± 0.05 in the FHH.1BNrats. We next performed a genetic linkage analysis for autoregulation of RBF in 85 F2 rats generated from a backcross of FHH.1BNconsomic and FHH rats. The results revealed a significant quantitative trait locus (QTL) with a peak logarithm of the odds score of 6.3 near marker D1Rat376. To confirm the existence of this QTL, five overlapping congenic strains were created that spanned the region from markers D1Rat234 to D1Mit14. Transfer of a region of BN chromosome 1 from markers D1Mgh13 to D1Rat89 into the FHH genetic background improved autoregulation of RBF (AI = 0.23 ± 0.04) and reduced protein excretion. In contrast, RBF was poorly autoregulated and the rats were not protected from proteinuria in congenic strains in which other regions of chromosome 1 that exclude the D1Rat376 marker were transferred. These results indicate that there is a gene(s) that influences autoregulation of RBF and proteinuria between markers D1Mgh13 and D1Rat89 on chromosome 1 that lies within the confidence interval of the Rf-1 QTL previously linked to the development of proteinuria in FHH rats.
Adenosine as a mediator of macula densa-dependent inhibition of renin secretion
Authors: Kim Soo Mi , Mizel Diane , Huang Yuning G. , Briggs Josie P. , Schnermann Jurgen
Published: November 2005

Adenosine acting through A1 adenosine receptors (A1AR) has been shown previously to be required for the vasoconstriction elicited by high luminal NaCl concentrations at the macula densa (MD). The present experiments were performed to investigate a possible role of A1AR in MD control of renin secretion in conscious wild-type (WT) and A1AR-deficient mice. The intravenous injection of NaCl (5% body wt) reduced plasma renin concentration (PRC; ng ANG I·ml−1·h−1) from 1,479 ± 129 to 711 ± 77 ( P < 0.0001; n = 18) in WT mice but did not significantly change PRC in A1AR−/− mice (1,352 ± 168 during control vs. 1,744 ± 294 following NaCl; P = 0.19; n = 17). NaCl injections also caused a significant reduction in PRC in β1/β2-adrenergic receptor−/− mice (298 ± 47 vs. 183 ± 42; P = 0.03; n = 6). Injections of isotonic NaHCO3 (5% body wt) elicited significant increases in PRC in both WT and A1AR−/− mice. NaCl as well as NaHCO3 injections were accompanied by transient increases in blood pressure, heart rate, and activity that were similar in WT and A1AR−/− mice. The increase in PRC caused by an intraperitoneal injection of furosemide (40 mg/kg) was comparable in WT and A1AR−/− mice, and it was accompanied by similar transient increases in blood pressure, heart rate, and activity. Similarly, the stimulation of PRC caused by hydralazine was the same in WT and A1AR−/− mice. We conclude that the inhibition of renin secretion in response to an increase in NaCl at the MD requires A1AR and therefore appears to be adenosine dependent, whereas the stimulation of renin secretion during reductions in MD NaCl transport or arterial pressure does not require functional A1AR.
Adipocytes support cAMP-dependent translocation of aquaporin-2 from intracellular sites distinct from the insulin-responsive GLUT4 storage compartment
Authors: Procino Giuseppe , Caces Donne Bennett , Valenti Giovanna , Pessin Jeffrey E.
Published: November 2005

Aquaporin-2 (AQP2), when expressed in fully differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes, displays cAMP-dependent plasma membrane translocation in a manner similar to its behavior in renal epithelial cells. The translocation of AQP2 required phosphorylation at serine 256, as the expression of AQP2/S256D was constitutively plasma membrane localized, whereas AQP2/S256A was refractory to forskolin stimulation. Unlike GLUT4, this property is not inhibited by depolymerization of cortical actin. In addition, coexpression with the dominant negative form of TC10 (TC10/T31N) or inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase did not abrogate the cAMP-mediated response. Under basal conditions, AQP2 is localized in both the perinuclear region and in punctate vesicles scattered within the periphery of the cell. Two- and three-dimensional confocal immunofluorescence microscopy demonstrated that the adipocyte AQP2 cAMP-responsive compartment was distinct from the GLUT4 insulin-responsive compartment. Consistent with this conclusion, insulin was an effective stimulator of GLUT4 translocation but had no effect on AQP2. Conversely, forskolin induced AQP2 translocation but not GLUT4. Colocalization studies with the early endosomal marker EEA1 and transferrin receptor suggested that the AQP2 compartment is mostly distinct from endosomal vesicles. Interestingly, however, the peripheral AQP2 vesicles significantly overlapped vesicle-associated membrane protein-2, underscoring the role of the latter in hormone-regulated exocytosis. To acquire insulin responsiveness following biosynthesis, GLUT4 undergoes a slow sorting step that requires 6–9 h. In contrast, AQP2 rapidly acquires forskolin responsiveness (3 h following biosynthesis) and directly enters the cAMP-regulated compartment without transiting the plasma membrane. Together, these data demonstrate that adipocytes display two different intracellular sorting mechanisms that direct distinct hormone-sensitive partitioning of GLUT4 and AQP2.
Identification and localization of TRPC channels in the rat kidney
Authors: Goel Monu , Sinkins William G. , Zuo Cheng-Di , Estacion Mark , Schilling William P.
Published: November 2005

It is well established that transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are activated following stimulation of G protein-coupled membrane receptors linked to PLC, but their differential expression in various cells of the renal nephron has not been described. In the present study, immunoprecipitations from rat kidney lysates followed by Western blot analysis using TRPC-specific, affinity-purified antibodies revealed the presence of TRPC1, -C3, and -C6. TRPC4, -C5, and -C7 were nondetectable. TRPC1 immunofluorescence was detected in glomeruli and specific tubular cells of the cortex and outer medulla. TRPC1 colocalized with aquaporin-1, a marker for proximal tubule and thin descending limb, but not with aquaporin-2, a marker for connecting tubule and collecting duct cells. TRPC3 and -C6 immunolabeling was predominantly confined to glomeruli and specific tubular cells of the cortex and both the outer and inner medulla. TRPC3 and -C6 colocalized with aquaporin-2, but not with the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger or peanut lectin. Thus TRPC3 and -C6 proteins are expressed in principle cells of the collecting duct. In polarized cultures of M1 and IMCD-3 collecting duct cells, TRPC3 was localized exclusively to the apical domain, whereas TRPC6 was found in both the basolateral and apical membranes. TRPC3 and TRPC6 were also detected in primary podocyte cultures, whereas TRPC1 was exclusively expressed in mesangial cell cultures. Specific immunopositive labeling for TRPC4, -C5, or -C7 was not observed in kidney sections or cell lines. These results suggest that TRPC1, -C3, and -C6 may play a functional role in PLC-dependent signaling in specific regions of the nephron.
Volume-related and volume-independent effects of posture on esophageal and transpulmonary pressures in healthy subjects
Authors: Washko George R. , O'Donnell Carl R. , Loring Stephen H.
Published: November 2005

Ventilator management decisions in acute lung injury could be better informed with knowledge of the patient's transpulmonary pressure, which can be estimated using measurements of esophageal pressure. Esophageal manometry is seldom used for this, however, in part because of a presumed postural artifact in the supine position. Here, we characterize the magnitude and variability of postural effects on esophageal pressure in healthy subjects to better assess its significance in patients with acute lung injury. We measured the posture-related changes in relaxation volume and total lung capacity in 10 healthy subjects in four postures: upright, supine, prone, and left lateral decubitus. Then, in the same subjects, we measured static pressure-volume characteristics of the lung over a wide range of lung volumes in each posture by using an esophageal balloon catheter. Transpulmonary pressure during relaxation (Plrel) averaged 3.7 (SD 2.0) cmH2O upright and −3.3 (SD 3.2) cmH2O supine. Approximately 58% of the decrease in Plrel between the upright and supine postures was due to a corresponding decrease in relaxation volume. The remaining 2.9-cmH2O difference is consistent with reported values of a presumed postural artifact. Relaxation volumes and pressures in prone and lateral postures were intermediate. To correct estimated transpulmonary pressure for the effect of lying supine, we suggest adding 3 cmH2O (95% confidence interval: −1 to +7 cmH2O). We conclude that postural differences in estimated transpulmonary pressure at a given lung volume are small compared with the substantial range of Plrel in patients with acute lung injury.
Single-breath test in lateral decubitus reflects function of single lungs grafted for emphysema
Authors: Van Muylem Alain , Scillia Pietro , Knoop Christiane , Paiva Manuel , Estenne Marc
Published: November 2005

The slope of alveolar plateau for nitrogen derived from the single-breath test is useful to assess the function of bilateral lung grafts, but this technique is not applicable to patients with single-lung grafts due to the confounding influence of the native lung. We tested the hypothesis that the nitrogen slope measured in lateral decubitus with the graft in nondependent position may primarily reflect the distribution of ventilation in this lung. Fifteen patients with single-lung transplantation for emphysema, 10 healthy controls, and 7 patients with advanced emphysema performed single-breath washouts in right and left lateral decubitus; nitrogen slope was measured between 75 and 100% of expired volume. In 10 transplant recipients, the volume of each lung was measured in the two postures by computerized tomography. Nitrogen slope was unaffected by posture in normal controls and emphysema patients. On the other hand, nitrogen slope in transplant recipients was invariably smaller, with the graft in nondependent vs. in dependent position. Values of nitrogen slope with the graft in nondependent position were similar to those obtained in normal controls but significantly smaller than those obtained in emphysema patients. Computerized tomography studies in this position indicated that the volume expired below functional residual capacity was exclusively contributed by the graft. We conclude that, in patients with single-lung transplantation for emphysema, 1) measuring nitrogen slope in lateral decubitus allows to distinguish between the graft and the native lung, and 2) nitrogen slope obtained with the graft in nondependent position reflects ventilation distribution in this lung.
Plant-Based Formulation for Bronchial Asthma: A Controlled Clinical Trial to Compare Its Efficacy with Oral Salbutamol and Theophylline
Authors: Murali P.M. , Rajasekaran S. , Krishnarajasekar O.R. , Perumal T. , Nalini K. , Lakshmisubramanian S. , Deivanayagam C.N.
Published: November 2005

Background: Plant-based medicine is the 3rd most popular choice of both adults (11%) and children (6%) suffering from Asthma. While several plant-based formulations have been reported for the treatment of asthma in the past, many authors have published their reservations on clinical trials carried out using complementary and alternative medicines. Objectives: The authors desired to eliminate the shortcomings of the earlier clinical trials carried out by many investigators in a structured study. Therefore, a 12-week randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical study was conducted to investigate the efficacy of a plant-based formulation (DCBT4567-Astha-15) in comparison with oral salbutamol, salbutamol + theophylline and a matching placebo in patients with reversible asthma. Methods: Ninety-four patients between 15 and 50 years of age, showing 15% improvement in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) 15 min after a bronchial challenge of inhaled salbutamol (200 µg) were recruited, and the end point of the study was determined as a 15% improvement in FEV1 and clinical symptoms like dyspnoea, wheezing, cough, expectoration, disability, sleep disturbances and respiration rate. Results: DCBT4567-Astha-15, salbutamol and salbutamol + theophylline patients showed statistically significant improvement in FEV1, while placebo patients did not show any improvement. Fifty percent of DCBT4567-Astha-15, 48% of salbutamol, 58% of salbutamol + theophylline and 26% of placebo patients showed the desired 15% improvement in FEV1. Improved mean FEV1 values at the end of the trial indicated that the salbutamol - theophylline combination was superior followed by salbutamol and DCBT4567-Astha-15. Clinical symptoms like dyspnoea, wheezing, cough, expectoration, disability, and sleep disturbances were significantly reduced in DCBT4567-Astha-15 patients compared to patients of the other three arms. Conclusions: DCBT4567-Astha-15 was as efficacious as salbutamol (12 mg/day) or salbutamol (12 mg/day) in combination with theophylline (200 mg/day) in the treatment of reversible asthmatics. Quality of life of patients also improved with DCBT4567-Astha-15 drug treatment.
Modification of Precipitation by Coastal Orography in Storms Crossing Northern California
Authors: James Curtis N. , Houze Robert A.
Published: November 2005

This study compiles and interprets three-dimensional Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) data during a 2.5-yr period and examines the typical orographic effects on precipitation mainly associated with winter storms passing over coastal northern California.

The three-dimensional mean reflectivity patterns show echo structure that was generally stratiform from over the ocean to inland over the mountains. The flow above the 1-km level was strong enough to be unblocked by the terrain, and the mean echo pattern over land had certain characteristics normally associated with an unblocked cross-barrier flow, both on the broad scale of the windward slopes of the coastal mountains and on the scale of individual peaks of the terrain on the windward side. Upward-sloping echo contours on the scale of the overall region of coastal mountains indicated broadscale upslope orographic enhancement. On a smaller scale, the mean stratiform echo pattern over the mountains contained a strong embedded core of maximum reflectivity over the first major peak of terrain encountered by the unblocked flow and a secondary echo core over the second major rise of the coastal mountain terrain.

Offshore, upstream of the coastal mountains, the reflectivity pattern showed a region of enhanced mainly stratiform echo within ∼100 km of the coast, with an embedded echo core, similar to those over the inland mountain peaks, along its leading edge. It is suggested that the offshore enhancement is caused by intensified frontogenesis in the offshore coastal zone and/or by the onshore directed low-level flow rising over a thin layer of cool, stable air dammed against the coastal mountains.

The orographically enhanced precipitation offshore and over the coastal mountains was present to some degree in all the landfalling storms. However, the degree to which each feature was present varied. All the features were more pronounced when the 500–700-hPa flow was strong, the midlevel humidity was high, and the low-level cross-barrier wind component was strong. When the low-level stability was greater, the offshore enhancement of precipitation was proportionately increased, and the general broadscale enhancement inland was reduced.
Accounting for the Error due to Unresolved Scales in Ensemble Data Assimilation: A Comparison of Different Approaches
Authors: Hamill Thomas M. , Whitaker Jeffrey S.
Published: November 2005

Insufficient model resolution is one source of model error in numerical weather predictions. Methods for parameterizing this error in ensemble data assimilations are explored here. Experiments were conducted with a two-layer primitive equation model, where the assumed true state was a T127 forecast simulation. Ensemble data assimilations were performed with the same model at T31 resolution, assimilating imperfect observations drawn from the T127 forecast. By design, the magnitude of errors due to model truncation was much larger than the error growth due to initial condition uncertainty, making this a stringent test of the ability of an ensemble-based data assimilation to deal with model error. Two general methods, “covariance inflation” and “additive error,” were considered for parameterizing the model error at the resolved scales (T31 and larger) due to interaction with the unresolved scales (T32 to T127). Covariance inflation expanded the background forecast members’ deviations about the ensemble mean, while additive error added specially structured noise to each ensemble member forecast before the update step.

The method of parameterizing this model error had a substantial effect on the accuracy of the ensemble data assimilation. Covariance inflation produced ensembles with analysis errors that were no lower than the analysis errors from three-dimensional variational (3D-Var) assimilation, and for the method to avoid filter divergence, the assimilations had to be periodically reseeded. Covariance inflation uniformly expanded the model spread; however, the actual growth of model errors depended on the dynamics, growing proportionally more in the midlatitudes. The inappropriately uniform inflation progressively degradated the capacity of the ensemble to span the actual forecast error.

The most accurate model-error parameterization was an additive model-error parameterization, which reduced the error difference between 3D-Var and a near-perfect assimilation system by ∼40%. In the lowest-error simulations, additive errors were parameterized using samples of model error from a time series of differences between T63 and T31 forecasts. Scaled samples of differences between model forecast states separated by 24 h were also tested as additive error parameterizations, as well as scaled samples of the T31 model state’s anomaly from the T31 model climatology. The latter two methods produced analyses that were progressively less accurate. The decrease in accuracy was likely due to their inappropriately long spatial correlation length scales.
Ensemble Kalman Filter Assimilation of Fixed Screen-Height Observations in a Parameterized PBL
Authors: Hacker Joshua P. , Snyder Chris
Published: November 2005

In situ surface layer observations are a rich data source that could be more effectively utilized in NWP applications. If properly assimilated, data from existing mesonets could improve initial conditions and lower boundary conditions, leading to the possibility of improved simulation and short-range forecasts of slope flows, sea breezes, convective initiation, and other PBL circulations.

A variance–covariance climatology is constructed by extracting a representative column from real-time mesoscale forecasts over the Southern Great Plains, and used to explore the potential for estimating the state of the PBL by assimilating surface observations. A parameterized 1D PBL model and an ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) approach to assimilation are used to test this potential. Analysis focuses on understanding how effectively the EnKF can spread the surface observations vertically to constrain the state of the PBL model. Results confirm that assimilating surface observations can substantially improve the state of a modeled PBL. Experiments to estimate the moisture availability parameter through the data assimilation system show that the EnKF is a viable tool for parameter estimation, and may help mitigate model error in forecasting and simulating the PBL.
Initialization of an ENSO Forecast System Using a Parallelized Ensemble Filter
Authors: Zhang S. , Harrison M. J. , Wittenberg A. T. , Rosati A. , Anderson J. L. , Balaji V.
Published: November 2005

As a first step toward coupled ocean–atmosphere data assimilation, a parallelized ensemble filter is implemented in a new stochastic hybrid coupled model. The model consists of a global version of the GFDL Modular Ocean Model Version 4 (MOM4), coupled to a statistical atmosphere based on a regression of National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) reanalysis surface wind stress, heat, and water flux anomalies onto analyzed tropical Pacific SST anomalies from 1979 to 2002. The residual part of the NCEP fluxes not captured by the regression is then treated as stochastic forcing, with different ensemble members feeling the residual fluxes from different years. The model provides a convenient test bed for coupled data assimilation, as well as a prototype for representing uncertainties in the surface forcing.

A parallel ensemble adjustment Kalman filter (EAKF) has been designed and implemented in the hybrid model, using a local least squares framework. Comparison experiments demonstrate that the massively parallel processing EAKF (MPPEAKF) produces assimilation results with essentially the same quality as a global sequential analysis. Observed subsurface temperature profiles from expendable bathythermographs (XBTs), Tropical Atmosphere Ocean (TAO) buoys, and Argo floats, along with analyzed SSTs from NCEP, are assimilated into the hybrid model over 1980–2002 using the MPPEAKF. The filtered ensemble of SSTs, ocean heat contents, and thermal structures converge well to the observations, in spite of the imposed stochastic forcings. Several facets of the EAKF algorithm used here have been designed to facilitate comparison to a traditional three-dimensional variational data assimilation (3DVAR) algorithm, for instance, the use of a univariate filter in which observations of temperature only directly impact temperature state variables. Despite these choices that may limit the power of the EAKF, the MPPEAKF solution appears to improve upon an earlier 3DVAR solution, producing a smoother, more physically reasonable analysis that better fits the observational data and produces, to some degree, a self-consistent estimate of analysis uncertainties. Hybrid model ENSO forecasts initialized from the MPPEAKF ensemble mean also appear to outperform those initialized from the 3DVAR analysis. This improvement stems from the EAKF’s utilization of anisotropic background error covariances that may vary in time.
A Numerical Study on the Effects of Taiwan Topography on a Convective Line during the Mei-Yu Season
Authors: Wang Chung-Chieh , Chen George Tai-Jen , Chen Tzu-Chin , Tsuboki Kazuhisa
Published: November 2005

During the morning hours on 23 May 2002, a convective line associated with a mei-yu front brought heavy rainfall along the coast of central Taiwan under favorable synoptic conditions of warm air advection and large convective available potential energy (CAPE) of over 3000 m2 s−2. Doppler radar observations indicated that deep convection was organized into a linear shape with a northeast–southwest orientation along the front about 70 km offshore from Taiwan over the northern Taiwan Strait. The system then moved toward Taiwan at a slow speed of about 4 m s−1. In the present study, the effects of Taiwan topography on this convective line and subsequent rainfall distribution were investigated through numerical modeling using the Nagoya University Cloud-Resolving Storm Simulator (CReSS) at a 2-km horizontal grid size. Experiments with different terrain heights of Taiwan, including full terrain (FTRN), half terrain (HTRN), and no terrain (NTRN), were performed. The control run using full-terrain and cold rain explicit microphysics realistically reproduced the evolution of the convective line and the associated weather with many fine details.

Two low-level convergence zones were found to be crucial in the development of this convective line and the subsequent rainfall distribution over Taiwan. The first was along the mei-yu front and forced mainly by the front, but was terrain enhanced off the northwestern coast of Taiwan due to the blocking of air on the windward side of the Central Mountain Range (CMR). After formation, convective cells along this zone propagated southeastward and produced rainfall over the northwestern coast. As the front moved closer to Taiwan, a second arc-shaped convergence zone with a nearly north–south orientation along about 120°E formed ahead of the front between the prevailing flow and near-surface offshore flow induced by the blocking. This second zone was terrain induced, and convection initiated near its northern end was found to be responsible for the rainfall maximum observed near the coast of central Taiwan. Its intensity and position were highly sensitive to terrain height. In the HTRN run where the terrain was reduced by half, a weaker zone closer to the CMR (by about 50 km) was produced, and the rain fell mostly over the windward slope of the terrain instead of over the coastal plain. When the terrain was removed in the NTRN run, no such zone with the correct orientation formed. It was also found that the frontal movement near northern Taiwan was slightly delayed with the presence of terrain, and this affected the timing and distribution of local rainfall during the later stages of this event.
Impacts of Air–Sea Interaction on Tropical Cyclone Track and Intensity
Authors: Wu Liguang , Wang Bin , Braun Scott A.
Published: November 2005

While the previous studies of the impacts of air–sea interaction on tropical cyclones (TCs) generally agree on significant reduction in intensity and little change in track, they did not further explore the relative roles of the weak symmetric and strong asymmetric sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies relative to the TC center. These issues are investigated numerically with a coupled hurricane–ocean model in this study.

Despite the relatively small magnitude compared to the asymmetric component of the resulting cooling, the symmetric cooling plays a decisive role in weakening TC intensity. A likely reason is that the symmetric cooling directly reduces the TC intensity, while the asymmetric cooling affects the intensity through the resulting TC asymmetries, which are mainly confined to the lower boundary and much weaker than those resulting from large-scale environmental influences.

The differences in TC tracks between the coupled and fixed SST experiments are generally small because of the competing processes associated with the changes in TC asymmetries and the beta drift induced by air–sea interaction. The symmetric component of the SST drop weakens the TC intensity and outer strength, leading to a more northward beta drift. On the other hand, since the asymmetric component of the SST cooling is negative in the rear and positive in the front of a TC in the coupled experiments, the enhanced diabatic heating is on the southern side of a westward-moving TC, tending to shift the TC southward. In the coupled model the westward TCs with relatively weak (strong) outer strength tend to turn to the north (south) of the corresponding TCs without air–sea interaction.
Incorporating Misclassification Error in Skill Assessment
Authors: Briggs William , Pocernich Matt , Ruppert David
Published: November 2005

It is desirable to account for misclassification error of meteorological observations so that the true skill of the forecast can be assessed. Errors in observations can occur, among other places, in pilot reports of icing and in tornado spotting. Not accounting for misclassification error gives a misleading picture of the forecast’s true performance. An extension to the climate skill score test developed in Briggs and Ruppert is presented to account for possible misclassification error of the meteorological observation. This extension supposes a statistical misclassification-error model where “gold standard” data, or expert opinion, is available to characterize the misclassification-error characteristics of the observation. These model parameters are then inserted into the Briggs and Ruppert skill score for which a statistical test of significance can be performed.
A Cloud-Base Quasi-Balance Constraint for Parameterized Convection: Application to the Kain–Fritsch Cumulus Scheme
Authors: Ridout James A. , Jin Yi , Liou Chi-Sann
Published: November 2005

A quasi balance with respect to parcel buoyancy at cloud base between destabilizing processes and convection is imposed as a constraint on convective cloud-base mass flux in a modified version of the Kain–Fritsch cumulus parameterization. Supporting evidence is presented for this treatment, showing a cloud-base quasi balance (CBQ) on a time scale of approximately 1–3 h in explicit simulations of deep convection over the U.S. Great Plains and over the tropical Pacific Ocean with the Naval Research Laboratory’s Coupled Ocean/Atmosphere Mesoscale Prediction System (COAMPS).1 With the exception of the smaller of two convective events in the Great Plains simulation, a CBQ is still observed upon restriction of the data analysis to instances where the available buoyant energy (ABE) exceeds a threshold value of 1000 J kg−1. This observation is consistent with the view that feedbacks between convection and cloud-base parcel buoyancy can control the rate of convection on shorter time scales than those associated with the elimination of buoyant energy and supports the addition of a CBQ constraint to the Kain–Fritsch mass-flux closure.

Tests of the modified Kain–Fritsch scheme in single-column-model simulations based on the explicit three-dimensional simulations show a significant improvement in the representation of the main convective episodes, with a greater amount of convective rainfall. The performance of the scheme in COAMPS precipitation forecast experiments over the continental United States is also investigated. Improvements are obtained with the modified scheme in skill scores for middle to high rainfall rates.
Origin and Propagation of a Disturbance Associated with an African Easterly Wave as a Precursor of Hurricane Alberto (2000)
Authors: Lin Yuh-Lang , Robertson Katie E. , Hill Christopher M.
Published: November 2005

In this study, it is proposed that mesoscale convective complexes (MCCs) and a mesovortex (MV) were embedded within a wavelike disturbance over North Africa that led to the genesis of Hurricane Alberto (2000). The wavelike disturbance observed may be classified as an African easterly wave (AEW). Based on the cloud-top area and brightness values observed from infrared satellite data, four genesis and three lysis stages are identified within a cycle of moist convection associated with the pre-Alberto disturbance. The availability of water vapor is the most essential factor controlling the convective cycle of the pre-Alberto disturbance over the African continent. The presence of significant topography also contributes to the generation or decay of the associated MCCs through regulation of the water vapor supply. Further analysis of Meteosat satellite imagery reveals that the incipient disturbances for 23 of 34 eastern Atlantic tropical cyclones originated from the Ethiopian highlands (EH) region during the period of 1990–2001.

The pre-Alberto disturbance was found to have exhibited characteristics of an AEW. At the EH, there existed two modes of disturbance development: a stationary mode and a propagating mode. The stationary mode corresponded with the generation of moist convection over the EH triggered by diurnally variant sensible heating, while the propagating mode corresponded with the generation and propagation of MVs and mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) from the lee side of the EH over a period of about 2 to 3 days. These components of the disturbance propagated westward together within an AEW train at an average speed of 11.6 m s−1. The average wavelength was roughly estimated to be about 2200 km.

To prove that disturbances generated at the EH are indeed AEWs, the NCAR Regional Climate Model Version 3.0 is adopted to simulate the event. The simulated fields showed that both the propagating wave and stationary mountain wave modes were present, the convection was generated over the EH, and the pre-Alberto disturbance was generated near the lee of the EH. In addition, the convective cycle detected from NCEP reanalysis data was also reflected in the simulated fields. The simulated AEW possesses similar wave characteristics as the observed pre-Alberto disturbance.
Stability Analysis of Geostrophic Adjustment on Hexagonal Grids for Regions with Variable Depth
Authors: Torsvik Tomas , Thiem Øyvind , Berntsen Jarle
Published: November 2005

Hexagonal grids have been used in a number of numerical studies, and especially in relation to atmospheric models. Recent studies have suggested that ocean circulation models may also benefit from the use of hexagonal grids. These grids tend to induce less systematic errors and have better horizontal isotropy properties than traditional square grid schemes. If hexagonal grids are to be applied in ocean models, a number of features that are characteristic of ocean circulation problems need to be attended to.

The topography of the ocean basin is an important feature in most ocean models. Ocean modelers can experience instabilities due to depth variations. In the present paper, analysis of the propagation matrix for the spatially discretized system is used to explain unphysical growth of the numerical solutions of the linear shallow water equations when using hexagonal grids over domains with variable depth. It is shown that a suitable weighting of the Coriolis terms may give an energy-conserving and stable numerical scheme.
Bridging Philosophy of Technology and Neurobiological Research: Interpreting Images From the “Slam Freezer”
Authors: Rosenberger Robert
Published: November 2005

The swiftly growing field of neurobiological research utilizes highly advanced technologies (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging, electron microscopy) to mediate between investigators and the brains they investigate. Here, the author analyzes a device called the “slam freezer” that quick-freezes neurons to be studied under the microscope. Employing insights from Don Ihde’s philosophy of technology, work that carefully amalgamates continental philosophy with philosophy of science, the author draws out the practices of interpretation in slam-freezing research. This interdisciplinary approach to understanding scientific methodology sets the stage for further philosophical investigation of research in neuroscience.
Communitas, Ritual, and Sustainability in Peter Senge’s Presence: Human Purpose and the Field of the Future
Authors: Collins Shawn T.
Published: November 2005

Presence suggests that adapting the experiences of leading innovators may address a nightmare scenario of environmental destruction, a growing divide between the rich and poor, and escalating violence around the world. Innovation occurs by transforming sensing to identify limitations in existing solution sets, transforming perception to envision an entire whole, and transforming action to realize the future seeking to emerge from the whole. This U sequence follows the rite-of-passage phases of separation, liminality, and reincorporation documented by Victor Turner. By ending in spontaneous communitas and avoiding a normative model, the U does not discuss how to mobilize resources and develop systems of social control. This omission, as well as depending on the constructive power of human ritual without recognition of its destructive potential, significantly limits the U ’s analytic validity. Despite these limitations, Presence is an encouraging set of stories of attempts within the industrial context to mitigate the nightmare scenario and work toward a sustainable future.
Teaching Societal and Ethical Implications of Nanotechnology to Engineering Students Through Science Fiction
Authors: Berne Rosalyn W. , Schummer Joachim
Published: November 2005

Societal and ethical implications of nanotechnology have become a hot topic of public debates in many countries because both revolutionary changes and strong public concerns are expected from its development. Because nanotechnology is, at this point, mostly articulated in visionary and futuristic terms, it is difficult to apply standard methods of technology assessment and even more difficult to consider it in engineering ethics courses. In this article, the authors suggest using selected science fiction stories in the engineering ethics classroom to provide students with ethical skills and cultural knowledge required for engaging in public debates and for responsible decision making. Against the background of general debates on teaching engineering ethics, they do so by discussing the advantages and possible drawbacks of this approach and by presenting two examples of nano-science fiction classics.
Tension-Band Wiring for Fractures of the Fifth Metatarsal Located in the Junction of the Proximal Metaphysis and Diaphysis
Authors: Sarimo Janne , Rantanen Jussi , Orava Sakari , Alanen Jouko
Published: November 2005

Background

Fractures of the proximal fifth metatarsal, other than those involving the tuberosity, have a tendency to delayed union or even nonunion.

Hypothesis

Tension-band wire technique is a good alternative in treating fractures of the fifth metatarsal located in the proximal junction of the metaphysis and the diaphysis.

Study Design

Case series; level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Between 1996 and 2001, a total of 27 cases of proximal metaphysial/diaphysial fractures of the fifth metatarsal were treated with tension-band wiring. All of the patients had undergone prior unsuccessful nonoperative or operative treatment. The mean delay from the diagnosis of the fracture to the final operative procedure was 19.5 weeks (range, 6-48 weeks).

Results

The mean length of follow-up was 35 months (range, 12-70 months). All patients were able to return to their prior levels of activity. The mean time for union as shown on radiographs was 12.8 weeks, and the return to full activity took 8 to 20 weeks (mean, 14.7 weeks). There were no delayed unions, nonunions, or refractures during the follow-up.

Conclusion

The tension-band wire technique seems to give good results in the treatment of proximal metaphysial/diaphysial fractures of the fifth metatarsal in cases of primary unsuccessful nonoperative treatment or primary unsuccessful intramedullary screw fixation.
Glenohumeral Range of Motion Deficits and Posterior Shoulder Tightness in Throwers with Pathologic Internal Impingement
Authors: Myers Joseph B. , Laudner Kevin G. , Pasquale Maria R. , Bradley James P. , Lephart Scott M.
Published: November 2005

Background

Alterations in glenohumeral range of motion, including increased posterior shoulder tightness and glenohumeral internal rotation deficit that exceeds the accompanying external rotation gain, are suggested contributors to throwing-related shoulder injuries such as pathologic internal impingement. Yet these contributors have not been identified in throwers with internal impingement.

Hypothesis

Throwers with pathologic internal impingement will exhibit significantly increased posterior shoulder tightness and glenohumeral internal rotation deficit without significantly increased external rotation gain.

Study Design

Case control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Eleven throwing athletes with pathologic internal impingement diagnosed using both clinical examination and a magnetic resonance arthrogram were demographically matched with 11 control throwers who had no history of upper extremity injury. Passive glenohumeral internal and external rotation were measured bilaterally with standard goniometry at 90 ° of humeral abduction and elbow flexion. Bilateral differences in glenohumeral range of motion were used to calculate glenohumeral internal rotation deficit and external rotation gain. Posterior shoulder tightness was quantified as the bilateral difference in passive shoulder horizontal adduction with the scapula retracted and the shoulder at 90 ° of elevation. Comparisons were made between groups with dependent t-tests (P< .05).

Results

The throwing athletes with internal impingement demonstrated signif icantly greater glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (P= .03) and posterior shoulder tightness (P= .03) compared with the control subjects. No significant differences were observed in external rotation gain between groups (P= .16).

Clinical Relevance

These findings could indicate that a tightening of the posterior elements of the shoulder (capsule, rotator cuff) may contribute to impingement. The results suggest that management should include stretching to restore flexibility to the posterior shoulder.