bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of MJO Predictive Skill in Multiphysics and Multimodel Global Ensembles
Authors: Green Benjamin W. , Sun Shan , Bleck Rainer , Benjamin Stanley G. , Grell Georg A. 
Published: March 2017

Monthlong hindcasts of the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) from the atmospheric Flow-following Icosahedral Model coupled with an icosahedral-grid version of the Hybrid Coordinate Ocean Model (FIM-iHYCOM), and from the coupled Climate Forecast System, version 2 (CFSv2), are evaluated over the 12-yr period 1999–2010. Two sets of FIM-iHYCOM hindcasts are run to test the impact of using Grell–Freitas (FIM-CGF) versus simplified Arakawa–Schubert (FIM-SAS) deep convection parameterizations. Each hindcast set consists of four time-lagged ensemble members initialized weekly every 6 h from 1200 UTC Tuesday to 0600 UTC Wednesday. The ensemble means of FIM-CGF, FIM-SAS, and CFSv2 produce skillful forecasts of a variant of the Real-time Multivariate MJO (RMM) index out to 19, 17, and 17 days, respectively; this is consistent with FIM-CGF having the lowest root-mean-square errors (RMSEs) for zonal winds at both 850 and 200 hPa. FIM-CGF and CFSv2 exhibit similar RMSEs in RMM, and their multimodel ensemble mean extends skillful RMM prediction out to 21 days. Conversely, adding FIM-SAS—with much higher RMSEs—to CFSv2 (as a multimodel ensemble) or FIM-CGF (as a multiphysics ensemble) yields either little benefit, or even a degradation, compared to the better single-model ensemble mean. This suggests that multiphysics/multimodel ensemble mean forecasts may only add value when the individual models possess similar skill and error. An atmosphere-only version of FIM-CGF loses skill after 11 days, highlighting the importance of ocean coupling. Further examination reveals some sensitivity in skill and error metrics to the choice of MJO index.
The Dynamics of an Extreme Precipitation Event in Northeastern Vietnam in 2015 and Its Predictability in the ECMWF Ensemble Prediction System
Authors: van der Linden Roderick , Fink Andreas H. , Pinto Joaquim G. , Phan-Van Tan 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
A record-breaking rainfall event occurred in northeastern Vietnam in late July–early August 2015. The coastal region in Quang Ninh Province was hit severely, with station rainfall sums in the range of 1000–1500 mm. The heavy rainfall led to flooding and landslides, which resulted in an estimated economic loss of $108 million (U.S. dollars) and 32 fatalities. Using a multitude of data sources and ECMWF ensemble forecasts, the synoptic–dynamic development and practical predictability of the event is investigated in detail for the 4-day period from 1200 UTC 25 July to 1200 UTC 29 July 2015, during which the major portion of the rainfall was observed. A slowly moving upper-level subtropical trough and the associated surface low in the northern Gulf of Tonkin promoted sustained moisture convergence and convection over northeastern Vietnam. The humidity was advected in a moisture transport band lying across the Indochina Peninsula and emanating from a tropical storm over the Bay of Bengal. Analyses of the ECMWF ensemble forecasts clearly showed a sudden emergence of the predictability of the extreme event at lead times of 3 days that was associated with the correct forecasts of the intensity and location of the subtropical trough in the 51 ensemble members. Thus, the Quang Ninh event is a good example in which the predictability of tropical convection arises from large-scale synoptic forcing; in the present case it was due to a tropical–extratropical interaction that has not been documented before for the region and season.
A Pragmatic Smoothing Method for Improving the Quality of the Results in Atomic Spectroscopy
Authors: Bennun Leonardo 
Published: March 2017

A new smoothing method for improvement on the quantification of spectral signals, which requires the previous knowledge of the functions that should be quantified, is presented. These functions are used as weighted coefficients in the proposed smoothing algorithm. This method is extremely effective in reducing the scatter of signals obtained by the multichannel analyzer and it could be applied in atomic and nuclear spectroscopies, preferably to these techniques where net counts are a linear function of the acquisition time, like total reflection X-ray fluorescence, micro X-ray fluorescence, etc. If this algorithm is properly applied, it does not distort the form or the intensity of the signal, so it is well suited for use in all kinds of spectroscopic techniques. However, it should not be applied to data obtained from systems depending on time, e.g., control sciences, time series, sound analysis, etc. We applied this method over simulated data and real experimental measurements. As with all smoothing techniques, the proposed method improves the precision of the results, but when it was applied to computer-simulated spectra, we found a systematic enhancement on the accuracy of the results. We still do not have an answer for this apparent paradox. We also have to evaluate, in spectral analysis, the improvement produced by this smoothing procedure over detection and quantification limits. When this algorithm is applied over experimental results, it is mandatory that the sought characteristic functions, required for this weighted smoothing method, should be obtained from a system with strong stability. If the sought signals are not perfectly clean, this method should be applied with care.
Reconciling the value of the elevator round trip time between calculation and simulation
Authors: Al Sukkar Ghazi , Al-Sharif Lutfi , Mansour Mahmoud , Gharbieh Mohammad , Farraj Esraa , Jarrah Rawan , Milekh Rasha , Zaben Noor 
Published: March 2017

This paper attempts to understand the reasons for the difference in the value of the round trip time between calculation and simulation. It is posited the main reason for the difference is the combination of two factors: the restricted car capacity and the randomness in the behavior of the elevator traffic system, thus leading to a reduced effective car loading (effectively based on a smaller number of passengers in the car). There are three sources of randomness in the behavior of the system: the randomness of the passenger destinations (thus making the value of the round trip time a random variable), the randomness of the passenger arrival (driven by a Poisson passenger arrival model), and the effect of elevator bunching (thus making the value of the interval a random variable). Using a MATLAB-based simulator, the value of the round trip time is plotted against the system loading level for the case of a single entrance and incoming traffic only. Different conditions are simulated, including constant and random passenger arrivals, as well as queues-allowed and queues-not-allowed conditions. Varying these conditions provides an essential insight into the variation of the round trip time and the reasons for it. The effect of the number of passengers boarding the elevator on the value of the round trip time (and thus on the value of the system handling capacity) is investigated in more detail.
Fabrication and evaluation of a warp knitted polypropylene/polylactic acid composite mesh for pelvic floor repair
Authors: Lu Yao , Zhang Pei-hua 
Published: March 2017

Surgical mesh for repairing pelvic defects is expected to be stiff to improve surgical convenience, as well as be soft and flexible to relieve foreign body sensation. This paper aims to develop a new composite mesh (PA) consisted of polypropylene (PP) monofilaments and polylactic acid (PLA) monofilaments according to this expectation. The PA mesh was designed by the two-bar warp knitting technique to have a knitted structure with light weight (19.9 g/m2) and high porosity (porosity). A commercial lightweight PP mesh—Surgimesh® Prolapse mesh—was used as the control group. The mechanical property, in vitro degradation, and in vivo biocompatibility were then measured. The results revealed that the addition of stiffer, stronger PLA monofilaments did not significantly strengthen PA mesh, but made the mesh stiff. The warp knitted structure, porosity and pore size are vital factors affecting mesh mechanical properties. PLA monofilaments in PA mesh were degraded in 74 weeks, with a maximum weight loss reaching 62.4%. PA mesh was demonstrated to have better biocompatibility with evidences of lower shrinkage (13.1%) and faster tissue growth speed.
Clinical efficacy and safety of the Shugan Jieyu capsule in patients with acute myocardial infarction and depression
Authors: Liu Wei , Qin Jun 
Published: March 2017

Objective The aim is to comparatively study Shugan Jieyu capsule and sertraline for non-inferiority in the treatment of patients with acute myocardial infarction and depression (observing the curative effects and safety) by the randomized controlled experiment. Methods A total of 149 patients with acute myocardial infarction and depression were randomly divided into two groups, the Shugan Jieyu group (76 cases) and the sertraline group (73 cases), and received treatments for 24 weeks. Depression states were assessed by the rote diagnostic checklist, and effects were evaluated by the Hamilton depression scale. Drug safety for heart was assessed by left ventricular ejection fraction (reduced by 5%), blood pressure, heart rate, P-wave and R wave interval, Q-R-S complex wave, and corrected Q-T interval after 12 weeks of treatment. Results There were no significant differences in the effective rates of Shugan Jieyu and sertraline groups. Significantly lower adverse event rate was observed in the Shugan Jieyu group. Two groups had a similar cardiac safety. Conclusion Shugan Jieyu capsule has a reliable effect and high safety in patients with acute myocardial infarction and depression.
Adverse effects on health and wellbeing of working as a doctor: views of the UK medical graduates of 1974 and 1977 surveyed in 2014
Authors: Smith Fay , Goldacre Michael J , Lambert Trevor W 
Published: March 2017

Summary Objective To report on any adverse effects on health and wellbeing of working as a doctor, as described by senior doctors. Design Questionnaires sent in 2014 to all medical graduates of 1974 and 1977. Participants 3695 UK medical graduates. Setting United Kingdom. Main outcome measures Statements about adverse effects upon health, wellbeing and career. Results The aggregated response rate from contactable doctors was 84.6% (3695/4369). In response to the question ‘Do you feel that working as a doctor has had any adverse effects on your own health or wellbeing?’, 44% of doctors answered ‘yes’. More GPs (47%) than hospital doctors (42%) specified that this was the case. Three-quarters of doctors who answered ‘yes’ cited ‘stress/work–life balance/workload’ as an adverse effect, and 45% mentioned illness. In response to the statement ‘The NHS of today is a good employer when doctors become ill themselves’, 28% of doctors agreed, 29% neither agreed nor disagreed and 43% disagreed. More women doctors (49%) than men doctors (40%) disagreed with this statement. More general practitioners (49%) disagreed than hospital doctors (37%). Conclusions Chronic stress and illness, which these doctors attributed to their work, were widely reported. Although recent changes may have alleviated some of these issues, there are lessons for the present and future if the NHS is to ensure that its medical workforce receives the support which enables current doctors to enjoy a full and satisfying career and to contribute fully to health service provision in the UK. Older doctors, in particular, need support to be able to continue successfully in their careers.
One-year results of the use of endovenous radiofrequency ablation utilising an optimised radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy protocol for the treatment of truncal superficial venous reflux
Authors: Badham George E , Dos Santos Scott J , Lloyd Lucinda BA , Holdstock Judy M , Whiteley Mark S 
Published: March 2017

Background In previous in vitro and ex vivo studies, we have shown increased thermal spread can be achieved with radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy when using a low power and slower, discontinuous pullback. We aimed to determine the clinical success rate of radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy using this optimised protocol for the treatment of superficial venous reflux in truncal veins. Methods Sixty-three patients were treated with radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy using the optimised protocol and were followed up after one year (mean 16.3 months). Thirty-five patients returned for audit, giving a response rate of 56%. Duplex ultrasonography was employed to check for truncal reflux and compared to initial scans. Results In the 35 patients studied, there were 48 legs, with 64 truncal veins treated by radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy (34 great saphenous, 15 small saphenous and 15 anterior accessory saphenous veins). One year post-treatment, complete closure of all previously refluxing truncal veins was demonstrated on ultrasound, giving a success rate of 100%. Conclusions Using a previously reported optimised, low power/slow pullback radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy protocol, we have shown it is possible to achieve a 100% ablation at one year. This compares favourably with results reported at one year post-procedure using the high power/fast pullback protocols that are currently recommended for this device.
Efficacy of constraint-induced movement therapy compared with bimanual intensive training in children with unilateral cerebral palsy: a systematic review
Authors: Tervahauta MH , Girolami GL , Øberg GK 
Published: March 2017

Objective: To systematically review the evidence on the effect of constraint-induced movement therapy compared with bimanual intensive training in children with unilateral cerebral palsy. Data sources: Seven electronic databases (Cinahl, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Ovid MEDLINE, PEDro, PsycINFO, PubMed) were searched from database inception through December 2016. Methods: A systematic review was performed using the American Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Standardised mean differences (effect sizes) were calculated for each study and outcome. Results: Nine studies met the eligibility criteria. All studies provided level II evidence. Methodological quality was high in two studies, moderate in four studies and low in three studies. The methodology, participant and intervention characteristics were heterogeneous. The participants’ ages ranged from 1.5 to 16 years. Their initial hand function ranged from Manual Ability Classification System Level I to Level III. The total intervention dose ranged from 24 to 210 hours and duration from one week to ten weeks. The studies measured outcomes assessing unimanual and bimanual hand and arm function, participation and attainment of individualised goals. Overall, the effect sizes did not favour one of the interventions at short- or long-term follow-up. The 95% confidence intervals were broad, indicating inaccurate precision of the effect sizes. Pooling of the data for a meta-analysis was judged to be of little clinical value owing to heterogeneity. Conclusion: It is not possible to conclude whether constraint-induced movement therapy or bimanual intensive training is more effective than the other in children with unilateral cerebral palsy.
Chronotypes and circadian timing in migraine
Authors: van Oosterhout WPJ , van Someren EJW , Schoonman GG , Louter MA , Lammers GJ , Ferrari MD , Terwindt GM 
Published: March 2017

Background It has been suggested that migraine attacks strike according to circadian patterns and that this might be related to individual chronotype. Here we evaluated and correlated individual chronotypes, stability of the circadian rhythm, and circadian attack timing in a large and well-characterised migraine population. Methods In 2875 migraine patients and 200 non-headache controls we assessed differences in: (i) distribution of chronotypes (Münich Chronotype Questionnaire); (ii) the circadian rhythm’s amplitude and stability (Circadian Type Inventory); and (iii) circadian timing of migraine attacks. Data were analysed using multinomial and linear regression models adjusted for age, gender, sleep quality and depression. Results Migraineurs more often showed an early chronotype compared with controls (48.9% versus 38.6%; adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.42; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.58–3.69; p < 0.001); as well as a late chronotypes (37.7% versus 38.1%; adjusted OR = 1.69; 95% CI = 1.10–2.61; p = 0.016). Migraineurs, particularly those with high attack frequency, were more tired after changes in circadian rhythm (i.e. more languid; p < 0.001) and coped less well with being active at unusual hours (i.e. more rigid; p < 0.001) than controls. Of 2389 migraineurs, 961 (40.2%) reported early morning attack onset. Conclusion Migraine patients are less prone to be of a normal chronotype than controls. They are more languid and more rigid when changes in circadian rhythm occur. Most migraine attacks begin in the early morning. These data suggest that chronobiological mechanisms play a role in migraine pathophysiology.
Isolated Subscapularis Repair in Irreparable Posterosuperior Massive Rotator Cuff Tears Involving the Subscapularis Tendon
Authors: Kim Sung-Jae , Choi Yun-Rak , Jung Min , Lee Won-Yong , Chun Yong-Min 
Published: March 2017

Background:No previous study has examined whether isolated subscapularis tendon repair in irreparable posterosuperior massive rotator tears involving the subscapularis tendon in relatively young patients without arthritis can yield satisfactory outcomes.Hypothesis:We hypothesized that this procedure would produce favorable outcomes in patients who might otherwise be candidates for reverse arthroplasty.Study Design:Case series; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:This retrospective study included 24 patients in their 50s and 60s, without shoulder arthritis, who underwent arthroscopic isolated subscapularis repair for an irreparable massive rotator cuff tear involving the subscapularis tendon. Preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, subjective shoulder values (SSVs), University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder scores, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores, subscapularis strength (modified bell-press test; maximum of 5), and shoulder active range of motion (ROM) were assessed. Postoperative magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA) was performed 6 months postoperatively to assess structural integrity of the repaired subscapularis.Results:At a mean 34.8 months (range, 24-49 months) of follow-up, VAS pain scores (improved from 7.1 to 2.5), SSVs (33.3 to 75.2), ASES scores (35.9 to 76.0), UCLA shoulder scores (11.6 to 24.8), subscapularis strength, and ROM were significantly improved compared with preoperative measurements ( P < .001). Subscapularis muscle strength improved from 3.7 to 4.2 ( P < .001). For active ROM, forward flexion and internal rotation improved significantly ( P < .001); however, external rotation exhibited no significant improvement. Follow-up MRA was performed in 22 patients (92%) and showed retear of the repaired subscapularis in 6 (27% of the 22).Conclusion:Isolated repair of the subscapularis tendon in irreparable massive rotator cuff tears involving the subscapularis tendon yielded satisfactory short-term outcomes and structural integrity in patients in their 50s and 60s without arthritis. If patients with irreparable massive rotator cuff tears involving the subscapularis tendon are relatively young or have minimal concomitant arthritis, this repair can be worthwhile.
Development and Evaluation of a Lactation Rotation for a Pediatric Residency Program
Authors: Albert Jennifer B. , Heinrichs-Breen Jody , Belmonte Frank W. 
Published: March 2017

Background: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that pediatricians promote and help manage breastfeeding. However, research has shown that they are not adequately prepared. To address this gap, a 2-week mandatory lactation rotation program was developed for first-year pediatric residents. Research aim: The aim of the study was to provide a lactation education program and to measure the residents’ knowledge and perceived confidence regarding breastfeeding. Methods: This longitudinal self-report pretest/posttest study was conducted with a convenience sample of 45 first-year pediatric residents. Each resident spent a minimum of 50 hours with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. To measure breastfeeding knowledge and clinical confidence, the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Breastfeeding Residency Curriculum pretest was used 4 times: first and last day of the rotation and at 6 and 12 months postrotation. Results: Test and confidence scores were evaluated. Statistically significant differences in knowledge were found between test 1 when compared with tests 2, 3, and 4 ( p < .001). No significant differences were found between tests 2, 3, and 4 ( p > .05). The abilities to “adequately address parents’ questions” and to “completely manage common problems” were significant, with confidence increasing in tests 2, 3, and 4 ( p < .001). Conclusion: As a result of an innovative, comprehensive educational lactation program, the pediatric residents’ knowledge and perceived confidence related to breastfeeding significantly increased.
Cholinergic activation suppresses palmitate-induced macrophage activation and improves acylation stimulating protein resistance in co-cultured adipocytes
Authors: Wu Jing , Jiao Zhou-yang , Li Rui-zhen , Lu Hui-ling , Zhang Hao-hao , Cianflone Katherine 
Published: March 2017

Acylation-stimulating protein (ASP), produced through activation of the alternative complement immune system, modulates lipid metabolism. Using a trans-well co-culture cell model, the mitigating role of α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR)-mediated cholinergic pathway on ASP resistance was evaluated. ASP signaling in adipocytes via its receptor C5L2 and signaling intermediates Gαq, Gβ, phosphorylated protein kinase C-α, and protein kinase C-ζ were markedly suppressed in the presence of TNFα or medium from palmitate-treated RAW264.7 macrophages, indicating ASP resistance. There was no direct effect of α7nAChR activation in 3T3-L1 cell culture. However, α7nAChR activation almost completely reversed the ASP resistance in adipocytes co-cultured with palmitate-treated RAW264.7 macrophages. Further, α7nAChR activation could suppress the production of pro-inflammatory molecules TNFα and interleukin-6 produced from palmitate-treated co-cultured macrophages. These results suggest that macrophages play a significant role in the pathogenesis of ASP resistance and α7nAChR activation secondarily improves adipose ASP resistance through suppression of inflammation in macrophages.Impact statement1. Adipocyte–macrophage interaction in acylation-stimulating protein (ASP) resistance 2. Lipotoxicity induced inflammatory response in ASP resistance 3. A vicious circle between lipotoxicity and inflammatory response in ASP resistance 4. Cholinergic modulation of inflammatory response in adipocyte and macrophage