bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Simulation of the Madden–Julian Oscillation in the NCAR CCM3 Using a Revised Zhang–McFarlane Convection Parameterization Scheme
Authors: Zhang Guang J. , Mu Mingquan 
Published: November 2005

Abstract
This study presents the simulation of the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) in the NCAR CCM3 using a modified Zhang–McFarlane convection parameterization scheme. It is shown that, with the modified scheme, the intraseasonal (20–80 day) variability in precipitation, zonal wind, and outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) is enhanced substantially compared to the standard CCM3 simulation. Using a composite technique based on the empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis, the paper demonstrates that the simulated MJOs are in better agreement with the observations than the standard model in many important aspects. The amplitudes of the MJOs in 850-mb zonal wind, precipitation, and OLR are comparable to those of the observations, and the MJOs show clearly eastward propagation from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific. In contrast, the simulated MJOs in the standard CCM3 simulation are weak and have a tendency to propagate westward in the Indian Ocean. Nevertheless, there remain several deficiencies that are yet to be addressed. The time period of the MJOs is shorter, about 30 days, compared to the observed time period of 40 days. The spatial scale of the precipitation signal is smaller than observed.
Examination of convective heating from both deep and shallow convection and its relationship with moisture anomalies indicates that near the mature phase of the MJO, regions of shallow convection developing ahead of the deep convection coincide with regions of positive moisture anomalies in the lower troposphere. This is consistent with the recent observations and theoretical development that shallow convection helps to precondition the atmosphere for MJO by moistening the lower troposphere.
Sensitivity tests are performed on the individual changes in the modified convection scheme. They show that both change of closure and use of a relative humidity threshold for the convection trigger play important roles in improving the MJO simulation. Use of the new closure leads to the eastward propagation of the MJO and increases the intensity of the MJO signal in the wind field, while imposing a relative humidity threshold enhances the MJO variability in precipitation.
Urban Modification of the Surface Energy Balance in the West African Sahel: Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Authors: Offerle B. , Jonsson P. , Eliasson I. , Grimmond C. S. B. 
Published: November 2005

AbstractSurface–atmosphere energy exchanges in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, located in the West African Sahel, were investigated during February 2003. Basic knowledge of the impact of land cover changes on local climate is needed to understand and forecast the impacts of rapid urbanization predicted for the region. Previously collected data showed a large dry season urban heat island (UHI), which dramatically decreased with the onset of the rainy season and corresponding changes to the natural land cover thermal and radiative properties. Observations of local-scale energy balance fluxes were made over a residential district, and building surface temperatures were measured in three separate locations. Net all-wave radiation showed an increase with urbanization owing to the higher albedo, lower heat capacity, and thermal conductivity of the bare dry soil compared to the urbanized surface. The combination of material and geometry resulted in a decrease in albedo toward the urban center. Despite the higher albedo, surface temperatures of bare undisturbed soil could exceed surface temperatures in the residential area and urban center by 15°–20°C due to differences in thermal characteristics. Turbulent heat exchange measured over a residential area was dominated by sensible heat flux. Latent heat fluxes were greater than expected from the amount of vegetation but in accordance with water use in the area. An urban land surface scheme reproduced fluxes in agreement with measurements. The results point toward an intensification of the dry season urban heat island in Ouagadougou, given increased urbanization.
Intrinsic Risk Factors for the Development of Achilles Tendon Overuse Injury
Authors: Mahieu Nele N. , Witvrouw Erik , Stevens Veerle , Van Tiggelen Damien , Roget Philippe 
Published: November 2005

Background Although Achilles tendon overuse injuries occur commonly, our understanding of the pathologic changes and the factors that predispose athletes to them is limited. Purpose To identify measurable intrinsic risk factors for Achilles tendon overuse injuries. Study Design Cohort study (prognosis); Level of evidence, 2. Methods Sixty-nine male officer cadets followed the same 6-week basic military training. Before this training, each subject was evaluated for anthropometrical characteristics, isokinetic ankle muscle strength, ankle joint range of motion, Achilles tendon stiffness, explosive strength, and leisure and sports activity. During military training, Achilles tendon overuse injuries were registered and diagnosed by the same medical doctor. To identify the intrinsic risk factors, a multivariate analysis with the use of stepwise logistic regression was performed. The sensitivity, specificity, and cutoff values of the risk factors were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Results Ten of the 69 male recruits (14.5%) sustained an Achilles tendon overuse injury diagnosed on the basis of medical history and clinical examination. Analysis revealed that male recruits with lower plantar flexor strength and increased dorsiflexion excursion were at a greater risk of Achilles tendon overuse injury. The cutoff value of the plantar flexor strength at 85% sensitivity was 50.0 N·m, with a 4.5% specificity; the cutoff value of the dorsiflexion range of motion at 85% sensitivity was 9.0°, with 24.2% specificity. Conclusions The strength of the plantar flexors and amount of dorsiflexion excursion were identified as significant predictors of an Achilles tendon overuse injury. A plantar flexor strength lower than 50.0 N·m and dorsiflexion range of motion higher than 9.0° were possible thresholds for developing an Achilles tendon overuse injury.
Patterns of Vascular and Anatomical Response after Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Fealy Stephen , Adler Ronald S. , Drakos Mark C. , Kelly Anne M. , Allen Answorth A. , Cordasco Frank A. , Warren Russell F. , O'Brien Stephen J. 
Published: November 2005

Background It has been assumed that a robust vascular response at the tendon to bone interface during rotator cuff repairs is an integral part to the healing process. There are few studies that have explored this in an in-vivo prospective fashion. Purpose To prospectively characterize vascular and anatomical patterns in repaired rotator cuff tendons using Power Doppler sonography in a double-blinded fashion. Study Design Case control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods Fifty patients undergoing rotator cuff repair were enrolled: 28 mini-open, 14 open, and 8 arthroscopic repairs; 20 patients were controls. Patients underwent Power Doppler sonography at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively. Power Doppler sonography analysis examined 6 areas of the rotator cuff repair: discretely marginated intrasubstance, partialthickness defects, full-thickness defects, focal thinning of repair, presence of bursal or joint fluid, and location of anchors. A subjective scoring system assessed blood flow in each region. Results There was a predictable, significant decrease in vascular scores after rotator cuff repair over time. The mean vascular score was 11.6 at 6 weeks, 8.3 at 3 months, 7.0 at 6 months, and 2.4 for controls. There was a significant difference (P <. 05) in vascular recruitment scores between each time period, with the most robust flow at the peritendinous region. The lowest vascular score was at the anchor site or cancellous trough. Forty-eight percent of the patients had a rotator cuff repair defect postoperatively. These findings did not correlate with functional assessment and outcome at 6 months. There was no significant difference in vascular scores between the defect and no-defect groups. Mean University of California, Los Angeles; L'Insalata; and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores at 6 months were 28.6, 86.3, and 81.5, respectively. Thirty-three percent of asymptomatic controls had a rotator cuff tear that averaged 7.6 · 7.1 mm. Conclusion The robust vascular response dropped with time, which is not seen in asymptomatic shoulders. Nearly half of the patients demonstrated persistent rotator cuff defects after rotator cuff repair that did not correlate with functional outcome and physical findings at 6 months.
Risk Factors for Noncontact Ankle Sprains in High School Football Players
Authors: Tyler Timothy F. , Mchugh Malachy P. , Mirabella Michael R. , Mullaney Michael J. , Nicholas Stephen J. 
Published: November 2005

Background In a previous study, we noted a possible connection between an athlete's weight and risk of ankle sprain. Hypothesis A high body mass index and a history of a previous ankle sprain increase the risk of a subsequent noncontact sprain. Study Design Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods One hundred fifty-two athletes from 4 football teams were observed (2 varsity and 2 junior varsity). Two teams were observed for 3 seasons, and 2 teams were observed for 1 season. Before each season, body mass, height, history of previous ankle sprains, and ankle tape or brace use were recorded. Results There were 24 ankle sprains, of which 15 were noncontact inversion sprains (11 grade I, 3 grade II, 1 grade III; incidence, 1.08 per 1000 athlete-exposures). Injury incidence was higher in athletes with previous ankle injuries (2.60 vs 0.39; P< .001). Body mass index was also a risk factor (P< .05): injury incidence was 0.52 for players with a normal body mass index, 1.05 for players at risk of overweight, and 2.03 for overweight players. Injury incidence was 0.22 for normal-weight players with no previous ankle sprain compared with 4.27 for overweight players who had a previous sprain. Conclusion An overweight player who had a previous ankle sprain was 19 times more likely to sustain a noncontact ankle sprain than was a normal-weight player with no previous ankle sprain. Clinical Relevance Ankle sprain prevention strategies should be targeted at football players with a high body mass index and a history of previous ankle sprains.
Allograft Reconstruction for Massive, Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears
Authors: Moore David R. , Cain E. Lyle , Schwartz Martin L. , Clancy William G. 
Published: November 2005

Background There is currently no widely accepted treatment for massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears. Hypothesis Allograft reconstruction to span the remaining defect in massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears will lead to increased functional results and will demonstrate healing of the allograft on follow-up magnetic resonance imaging studies. Study Design Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods Between 1989 and 2003, 32 patients underwent allograft reconstruction of massive rotator cuff tears. University of California, Los Angeles shoulder scores were compared preoperatively and postoperatively and analyzed using paired Student t-tests. In addition, 15 patients underwent postoperative magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate the structural integrity of the allograft reconstruction at the greater tuberosity insertion. Results Of 32 patients, 28 were available for review at a mean follow-up of 31.3 months; 23 of the 28 patients were satisfied with their outcome. There was 1 postoperative infection and 1 acute allograft rejection. The mean University of California, Los Angeles score increased from 12.1 preoperatively to 26.1 postoperatively (P< .001). All 15 patients evaluated with postoperative magnetic resonance imaging arthrograms demonstrated complete radiographic failure of the allograft rotator cuff reconstruction. Despite radiographic failure, the mean University of California, Los Angeles score increased from 13.2 preoperatively to 28.3 postoperatively in this subset of patients. Conclusion The functional results of this reconstruction method are similar to those reported for debridement and subacromial decompression alone and are satisfactory, despite magnetic resonance imaging arthrogram evaluation demonstrating failure of the structural integrity of the allograft. Allograft reconstruction carries increased risk of infection and rejection and is technically more difficult than other less expensive treatment options with similar functional results. Therefore, we do not recommend allograft reconstruction of massive and otherwise irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Perceptions of asthma among physicians: an exploratory study with the ISAAC video
Authors: Van Sickle D. 
Published: November 2005

The current study examined the perception and interpretation of asthma symptoms among practitioners using standardised audiovisual presentations of asthma.Two groups of practitioners (n = 70) in Chennai, India, were shown the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) video questionnaire and asked to describe the symptoms and signs they observed and to identify possible diagnoses for each presentation.The number of practitioners who correctly described the principal symptom(s) of asthma depicted in the five video sequences ranged from 26.1% for scene 5 (wheezing and dyspnoea), to 94.2% for scene 4 (nocturnal cough). The number who identified asthma as a possible cause of the presentations ranged from 17.4% for scene 4, to 67.1% for scene 2 (wheeze after exercise). Practitioners with postgraduate medical education were significantly more likely to identify asthma as a possible cause of the presentations, as were practitioners with postgraduate training in respiratory diseases.In conclusion, the perceptions of asthma and asthma symptoms among many physicians in Chennai, India, do not match the presentations of asthma depicted in the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) video. These differences may be limiting the diagnosis and apparent prevalence of asthma, and suggest the need for additional attention to asthma in the education and training of practitioners in India.
Driving simulator and neuropsychological testing in OSAS before and under CPAP therapy
Authors: Orth M. , Duchna H-W. , Leidag M. , Widdig W. , Rasche K. , Bauer T. T. , Walther J. W. , de Zeeuw J. , Malin J-P. , Schultze-Werninghaus G. , Kotterba S. 
Published: November 2005

Patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) have an increased car accident rate. Investigations on accident frequency are based on case history, insurance reports and driving simulator studies. The present study combines neuropsychological testing of different attention aspects engaged in driving a car and driving simulation to evaluate a suitable instrument for assessing therapeutic effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).Driving simulator investigation and neuropsychological testing of alertness, vigilance and divided attention were performed in 31 patients with polysomnographically confirmed OSAS (apnoea–hypopnoea index 24.8±21.5·h−1) before, and 2 and 42 days after initiation of CPAP.Divided attention and alertness improved significantly during CPAP, whereas vigilance remained unchanged. However, accident frequency (OSAS before therapy: 2.7±2.0; 2 days after CPAP: 1.5±1.4; 42 days after CPAP: 0.9±1.3) and frequency of concentration faults (OSAS before therapy: 12.4±5.1; 2 days after CPAP: 6.5±3.9; 42 days after CPAP: 4.9±3.3) decreased in the simulated driving situation after 2 and 42 days of therapy. There was no relation between accident frequency, concentration faults and daytime sleepiness, as measured by the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and polysomnographic or neuropsychological findings, respectively.In conclusion, the present results suggest that driving simulation is a possible benchmark parameter of driving performance in obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome patients.
The effects ofAspergillus fumigatuschallenge on exhaled and nasal NO levels
Authors: Stark H. J. , Randell J. T. , Hirvonen M-R. , Purokivi M. K. , Roponen M. H. , Tukiainen H. O. 
Published: November 2005

Several studies have previously shown that exposure to indoor air microbes from moisture-damaged buildings can cause adverse health effects.Aspergillus fumigatusis one of the best-documented moulds causing health problems to those exposed.In this study, inhalation of a commercialA. fumigatussolution was assessed, to establish if it would have effects on fractional exhaled (FeNO) and nasal (FnNO) nitric oxide levels and on lung function. The results were compared with placebo challenge.A total of 28 subjects were divided into three study groups: group 1 had been exposed to occupational mould; group 2 consisted of atopic subjects; and group 3 was a control group. Some 3 h afterA. fumigatuschallenge, there was a considerable increase in FeNO, and a significant difference was observed between theA. fumigatusand placebo inhalations. The difference was seen in all study groups. No such differences were found in the levels of FnNOor nitrite in nasal lavage fluid. Subjects reported significantly more frequent respiratory tract symptoms after theA. fumigatusinhalation compared with placebo challenge.In conclusion, it was shown here that inhalation challenge ofAspergillus fumigatuselevated fractional exhaled nitric oxide levels. An increase in fractional exhaled nitric oxide may serve as an indicator of respiratory inflammation of acute mould exposure.
Self-management reduces both short- and long-term hospitalisation in COPD
Authors: Gadoury M-A. , Schwartzman K. , Rouleau M. , Maltais F. , Julien M. , Beaupré A. , Renzi P. , Bégin R. , Nault D. , Bourbeau J. 
Published: November 2005

The aim of the present study was to assess the long-term impact on hospitalisation of a self-management programme for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.A multicentre, randomised clinical trial was carried out involving 191 COPD patients from seven hospitals. Patients who had one or more hospitalisations in the year preceding study enrolment were assigned to a self-management programme “Living Well with COPDTM” or to standard care. Hospitalisations from all causes were the primary outcome and were documented from the provincial hospitalisation database; emergency visits were recorded from the provincial health insurance database.Most patients were elderly, not highly educated, had advanced COPD (reflected by a mean forced expiratory volume in one second of 1 L), and almost half reported a dyspnoea score of 5/5 (modified Medical Research Council). At 2 years, there was a statistically significant and clinically relevant reduction in all-cause hospitalisations of 26.9% and in all-cause emergency visits of 21.1% in the intervention group as compared to the standard-care group. After adjustment for the self-management intervention effect, the predictive factors for reduced hospitalisations included younger age, sex (female), higher education, increased health status and exercise capacity.In conclusion, in this study, patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who received educational intervention with supervision and support based on disease-specific self-management maintained a significant reduction in hospitalisations after a 2-year period.
Granulocytosis and increased adhesion molecules after resistive loading of the diaphragm
Authors: Wang X. , Jiang T-X. , Road J. D. , Redenbach D. M. , Reid W. D. 
Published: November 2005

Upregulation of endothelial cell adhesion molecules, followed by an influx of granulocytes and macrophages, can contribute to exertion-induced skeletal muscle injury. The purpose of this study was to quantify circulating leukocyte subsets, diaphragm injury and infiltrating leukocyte subsets, and surface expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1 and intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 in the diaphragm after inspiratory resistive loading (IRL).Eight New Zealand white rabbits underwent 1.5 h of IRL and seven control rabbits underwent a sham procedure. Blood samples, taken at baseline and 2, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h after the onset of IRL or sham, showed that band cell counts had increased at 6 h post-IRL. Point counting of haematoxylin and eosin-stained cross-sections, sampled at 72 h post-IRL, showed greater injury in diaphragms from IRL rabbits compared with controls. Immunohistochemical processing showed increased expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1, and higher granulocyte and macrophage counts in IRL diaphragms than control diaphragms. Macrophages were the predominant inflammatory cells.Increased intracellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 expression, and infiltration of granulocytes and macrophages may contribute to inspiratory resistive loading-induced diaphragm injury.
Effect of 1-year smoking cessation on airway inflammation in COPD and asymptomatic smokers
Authors: Willemse B. W. M. , ten Hacken N. H. T. , Rutgers B. , Lesman-Leegte I. G. A. T. , Postma D. S. , Timens W. 
Published: November 2005

Smoking cessation is the only treatment in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) effective in slowing down disease progression. Its effect on airway inflammation in COPD is unknown, although cross-sectional studies suggest ongoing inflammation in ex-smokers.In order to elucidate the effect of smoking cessation on airway inflammation, 28 smokers with COPD (mean age: 55 yrs; forced expiratory volume in one second: 71% predicted) and 25 asymptomatic smokers with normal lung function (aged 50 yrs) were included in a 1-yr smoking cessation programme. Effects of smoking cessation on airway inflammation were investigated in bronchial biopsies (baseline, 12 months) and sputum samples (baseline, 2, 6 and 12 months).In the 12 candidates with COPD who successfully ceased smoking, airway inflammation persisted in bronchial biopsies, while the number of sputum neutrophils, lymphocytes, interleukin (IL)-8 and eosinophilic-cationic-protein levels significantly increased at 12 months. In the 16 asymptomatic smokers who successfully quitted, inflammation significantly reduced (i.e.number of sputum macrophages, percentage of eosinophils and IL-8 levels) or did not change.The current authors suggest that the observed persistent airway inflammation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is related to repair of tissue damage in the airways. It remains to be elucidated whether this reflects a beneficial or detrimental effect.
Reversibility of pulmonary arterial hypertension in HIV/HHV8-associated Castleman's disease
Authors: Montani D. , Achouh L. , Marcelin A. G. , Viard J-P. , Hermine O. , Canioni D. , Sitbon O. , Simonneau G. , Humbert M. 
Published: November 2005

The present study describes a case of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) associated with multicentric Castleman's disease in a patient infected with HIV type 1 and human herpes virus 8.Therapy included highly active antiretroviral therapy, warfarin, diuretics, continuousi.v.epoprostenol and 12-monthly pulses of cyclophosphamide.The patient's condition improved dramatically with complete reversibility of PAH, allowing weaning of continuousi.v.epoprostenol therapy. After 5 yrs, both Castleman's disease and PAH have not relapsed. This supports the hypothesis that control of inflammation and retroviral replication may be of interest in the context of PAH, complicating the course of an inflammatory condition associated with viral infection.In conclusion, further studies should help in characterising the best candidates for anti-inflammatory treatment in the setting of pulmonary arterial hypertension.