bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms for Tropical Tropospheric Circulation Change in Response to Global Warming*
Authors: Ma Jian , Xie Shang-Ping , Kosaka Yu 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
The annual-mean tropospheric circulation change in global warming is studied by comparing the response of an atmospheric general circulation model (GCM) to a spatial-uniform sea surface temperature (SST) increase (SUSI) with the response of a coupled ocean–atmosphere GCM to increased greenhouse gas concentrations following the A1B scenario. In both simulations, tropospheric warming follows the moist adiabat in the tropics, and static stability increases globally in response to SST warming. A diagnostic framework is developed based on a linear baroclinic model (LBM) of the atmosphere. The mean advection of stratification change (MASC) by climatological vertical motion, often neglected in interannual variability, is an important thermodynamic term for global warming. Once MASC effect is included, LBM shows skills in reproducing GCM results by prescribing latent heating diagnosed from the GCMs.
MASC acts to slow down the tropical circulation. This is most clear in the SUSI run where the Walker circulation slows down over the Pacific without any change in SST gradient. MASC is used to decelerate the Hadley circulation, but spatial patterns of SST warming play an important role. Specifically, the SST warming is greater in the Northern than Southern Hemisphere, an interhemispheric asymmetry that decelerates the Hadley cell north, but accelerates it south of the equator. The MASC and SST-pattern effects are on the same order of magnitude in our LBM simulations. The former is presumably comparable across GCMs, while SST warming patterns show variations among models in both shape and magnitude. Uncertainties in SST patterns account for intermodel variability in Hadley circulation response to global warming (especially on and south of the equator).
The Synoptic Climatology of Cool-Season Rainfall in the Central Wheatbelt of Western Australia
Authors: Pook Michael J. , Risbey James S. , McIntosh Peter C. 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
Synoptic weather systems form an important part of the physical link between remote large-scale climate drivers and regional rainfall. A synoptic climatology of daily rainfall events is developed for the Central Wheatbelt of southwestern Australia over the April–October growing season for the years 1965–2009. The climatology reveals that frontal systems contribute approximately one-half of the rainfall in the growing season while cutoff lows contribute about a third. The ratio of frontal rainfall to cutoff rainfall varies throughout the growing season. Cutoff lows contribute over 40% of rainfall in the austral autumn and spring, but this falls to about 20% in August when frontal rainfall climbs to more than 60%. The number of cutoff lows varies markedly from one growing season to another, but does not exhibit a significant long-term trend. The mean rainfall per cutoff system is also highly variable, but has gradually declined over the analysis period, particularly in the past decade. The decline in rainfall per frontal system is less significant. Cutoff low rainfall has contributed more strongly in percentage terms to the recent decline in rainfall in the Central Wheatbelt than the frontal component and accounts for more than half of the overall trend. Atmospheric blocking is highly correlated with rainfall in the region where cutoff low rainfall makes its highest proportional contribution. Hence, the decline in rain from cutoff low systems is likely to have been associated with changes in blocking and the factors controlling blocking in the region.
A qualitative study of perceptions related to family risk of bipolar disorder among patients and family members from India
Authors: Pattanayak Raman Deep , Sagar Rajesh 
Published: August 2011

Background: Over the past decade there have been rapid advances in psychiatry genetics and there is a growing concern about the clinical and practical relevance of this knowledge. Efforts are being made to know the perspectives of patients and family members regarding family risk and genetic counselling. However, the area remains largely unexplored in psychiatric research from Asian countries. Aim: The primary purpose of the study was to explore the perceptions related to family risk among Indian patients with bipolar disorder and their family members. The study also aimed to explore the related perceptions for etiology of bipolar disorder. Method: Patients with bipolar disorder type I and family members of patients with bipolar disorder type I were invited to take part in in-depth interviews after informed consent, targeting a sample of diversity. The qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Eight key themes emerged: (1) higher emphasis on external or situational causes; (2) causal explanations are governed by cultural beliefs; (3) help-seeking is a shared, rather than a personal, decision; (4) the perceived genetic risk is low but worrisome; (5) worries and apprehensions are focused mainly on future generations; (6) there is a desire to modify the perceived genetic risk; (7) knowledge of precise risk can be beneficial as well as anxiety provoking; and (8) there is a need for information on preventive measures. Conclusion: The study provides culture-specific perspectives on the causation of illness and explores a sensitive and personal matter of perceived family risk in an Indian sample. It emphasizes the need to further explore the perceptions of family risk in a given cultural context.
The self-stigma of depression for women
Authors: Oakley Linda Denise , Kanter Jonathan W. , Taylor Janette Y. , Duguid Marilyn 
Published: August 2011

Background: Self-stigmatizing women who avoid seeking treatment for depression could believe that they have pragmatic personal reasons for their decision. As a preliminary step towards testing this hypothesis, the aim of this study was to assess diverse, low-income working women for shared self-stigmatizing beliefs about depression. Methods: Depression and depression self-stigma were assessed in a targeted sample of African American, Caucasian and Latina women who qualify for public health services and have access to health care services. Results: Depression and self-stigmatizing beliefs about depression were positively correlated ( r = .30–.64). Over one third of the women in the study (37.5%) said they would do what they could to keep their depression secret. Over half (55%) indicated that the person they normally would disclose depression to is their best friend. A majority (80%) of the women in the study said they would choose not to disclose personal depression to a health care professional. Pairwise t tests for group differences showed that Caucasian women, women recently seen by a health care professional and women with more years of education had higher self-stigma scores. Conclusion: Self-stigmatizing women who feel depressed could knowingly decide to keep their depression secret with the hope of avoiding loss.
From self-awareness to self-identification with visual impairment: a qualitative study with working age adults at a rehabilitation setting
Authors: Senra Hugo , Oliveira Rui Aragão , Leal Isabel 
Published: August 2011

Objective: To explore the experience of vision loss, focusing on working age patients' self-awareness of impairment and self-identification with the impairment. Design: A cross-sectional and qualitative study, using semi-structured interviews. Setting: A specialized rehabilitation centre and a low vision unit at a public hospital. Participants: A convenience sample of 38 patients between the ages of 20 and 65, with sight loss caused by a serious ophthalmological condition acquired after the age of 18, and doing their rehabilitation. Main outcome measures: A semi-structured interview, addressing three core areas: the emotional impact of vision loss; adjustment; and social support. Interviews were transcribed, coded and analysed by two independent researchers. Results: Seven themes emerged from interviews. Changes in patients' identity, achievement and future life projection arose as being the main transformations caused by vision loss. Self-awareness of impairment appeared associated with the patients' first contact with their loss, while self-identification with the impairment arose connected with the later embodiment process of the vision loss. Conclusions: Patients’ self-awareness and self-perceptions of impairment appear to be two important milestones in the adjustment process to vision loss. Their assessment and monitoring over the rehabilitation period might help to promote impairment acceptance and rehabilitation outcomes.
Health system characteristics of quality care delivery: A comparative case study examination of palliative care for cancer patients in four regions in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Sussman Jonathan , Barbera Lisa , Bainbridge Daryl , Howell Doris , Yang Jinghao , Husain Amna , Librach S Lawrence , Viola Raymond , Walker Hugh 
Published: August 2011

Background: A number of palliative care delivery models have been proposed to address the structural and process gaps in this care. However, the specific elements required to form competent systems are often vaguely described. Aim: The purpose of this study was to explore whether a set of modifiable health system factors could be identified that are associated with population palliative care outcomes, including less acute care use and more home deaths. Design: A comparative case study evaluation was conducted of ‘palliative care’ in four health regions in Ontario, Canada. Regions were selected as exemplars of high and low acute care utilization patterns, representing both urban and rural settings. A theory-based approach to data collection was taken using the System Competency Model, comprised of structural features known to be essential indicators of palliative care system performance. Key informants in each region completed study instruments. Data were summarized using qualitative techniques and an exploratory factor pattern analysis was completed. Results: 43 participants (10+ from each region) were recruited, representing clinical and administrative perspectives. Pattern analysis revealed six factors that discriminated between regions: overall palliative care planning and needs assessment; a common chart; standardized patient assessments; 24/7 palliative care team access; advanced practice nursing presence; and designated roles for the provision of palliative care services. Conclusions: The four palliative care regional ‘systems’ examined using our model were found to be in different stages of development. This research further informs health system planners on important features to incorporate into evolving palliative care systems.
Methodological issues in a before-after study design to evaluate the Liverpool Care Pathway for the Dying Patientin hospital
Authors: Costantini Massimo , Di Leo Silvia , Beccaro Monica 
Published: August 2011

Background: In 2006, as the first step of a 3-year research programme to assess the Liverpool Care Pathway for the Dying Patient (LCP) in hospital, the original LCP documentation was translated and piloted in four Italian hospital wards in Genoa. The primary aim was to evaluate the feasibility of LCP implementation in the Italian context. The secondary aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the LCP with an uncontrolled before–after design. Aim: The aim of the study was to discuss and critically evaluate the methodological issues in designing and interpreting the results of the before–after study design. Setting/participants: All cancer deaths which occurred in four hospital wards (three general medicine and one respiratory disease) 4 months before and 4 months after LCP implementation (2 months for the respiratory disease ward) were registered. Caregivers were interviewed after the patient’s death using the Toolkit After-Death Bereaved Family Member Interview. Results: A total of 111 cancer deaths were identified (63 before and 48 after) and 79 caregivers (71.2%) were interviewed (46 before and 33 after). The analyses on number and characteristics of the patients, interviewed caregivers, compliance and modality of assessment showed significant differences before and after. A remarkable internal correlation coefficient for all of the Toolkit scales within the four hospital wards was observed. Conclusions: This analysis confirms the high risk of selection and information bias inherent the uncontrolled before– after study design. The high internal correlation strongly suggests that clustering should be taken into account in this kind of study.
Tyrosine nitration limits stretch-induced CD40 expression and disconnects CD40 signaling in human endothelial cells
Authors: Wagner Andreas H. , Hildebrandt Anke , Baumgarten Sebastian , Jungmann Andreas , Müller Oliver J. , Sharov Victor S. , Schöneich Christian , Hecker Markus 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
Hemodynamic forces are important effectors of endothelial cell phenotype and function. Because CD40-CD154 interactions between endothelial cells and mononuclear leukocytes or activated platelets play an important role in vascular dysfunction, we investigated the effects of cyclic stretch on CD40 expression in human cultured endothelial cells. Short-term stretch transiently up-regulated CD40 expression while long-term stretch resulted in a distinct decline in CD40 protein which was prevented by inhibition of the 20S proteasome or scavenging of peroxynitrite. Tyrosine nitration of CD40 also occurred under static conditions on addition of authentic peroxynitrite, and according to mass spectrometry analysis Tyr-82 but not Tyr-31 was its target in the native protein. Immunofluorescence analysis of endothelial cells transduced with a control or Tyr-82 to Ala mutated AAV9-CD40-eGFP expression construct confirmed a peroxynitrite-dependent redistribution of the protein from the cell membrane to the cytoplasm, which was prevented by methyl-β-cyclodextrin. Moreover, CD154-stimulated IL-12p40 and E-selectin expression markedly decreased after exposure to authentic peroxynitrite or cyclic stretch, respectively. Coimmunoprecipitation demonstrated a decreased binding of TRAF2 and TRAF6 to the CD40 protein after tyrosine nitration. Through this posttranslational oxidative modification of an important costimulatory molecule, endothelial cells are able to quickly adapt to unfavorable hemodynamics and maintain their anti-inflammatory phenotype.
IL-12 selectively programs effector pathways that are stably expressed in human CD8+ effector memory T cells in vivo
Authors: Chowdhury Fatema Z. , Ramos Hilario J. , Davis Laurie S. , Forman James , Farrar J. David 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes play a major role in defense against intracellular pathogens, and their functions are specified by antigen recognition and innate cytokines. IL-12 and IFN-α/β are potent “signal 3” cytokines that are involved in both effector and memory cell development. Although the majority of effector cells are eliminated as inflammation resolves, some survive within the pool of memory cells and retain immediate effector function. In this study, we demonstrate that IL-12 instructs a unique program of effector cell differentiation that is distinct from IFN-α/β. Moreover, effector memory (TEM) cells within peripheral blood display many common attributes of cells differentiated in vitro in response to IL-12, including proinflammatory cytokine secretion and lytic activity. A pattern of IL-12–induced genes was identified that demarcate TEM from central memory cells, and the ontologies of these genes correlated precisely with their effector functions. Further, we uncovered a unique program of gene expression that was acutely regulated by IL-12 and reflected in stable gene expression patterns within TEM, but not T central memory cells in vivo. Thus, this study directly links a selective set of IL-12–induced genes to the programming of effector functions within the stable population of human CD8+ TEM cells in vivo.
How I treat patients who mobilize hematopoietic stem cells poorly
Authors: To L. Bik , Levesque Jean-Pierre , Herbert Kirsten E. 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
Transplantation with 2-5 × 106 mobilized CD34+cells/kg body weight lowers transplantation costs and mortality. Mobilization is most commonly performed with recombinant human G-CSF with or without chemotherapy, but a proportion of patients/donors fail to mobilize sufficient cells. BM disease, prior treatment, and age are factors influencing mobilization, but genetics also contributes. Mobilization may fail because of the changes affecting the HSC/progenitor cell/BM niche integrity and chemotaxis. Poor mobilization affects patient outcome and increases resource use. Until recently increasing G-CSF dose and adding SCF have been used in poor mobilizers with limited success. However, plerixafor through its rapid direct blockage of the CXCR4/CXCL12 chemotaxis pathway and synergy with G-CSF and chemotherapy has become a new and important agent for mobilization. Its efficacy in upfront and failed mobilizers is well established. To maximize HSC harvest in poor mobilizers the clinician needs to optimize current mobilization protocols and to integrate novel agents such as plerixafor. These include when to mobilize in relation to chemotherapy, how to schedule and perform apheresis, how to identify poor mobilizers, and what are the criteria for preemptive and immediate salvage use of plerixafor.
Vascular endothelial growth factor–induced elimination of the type 1 interferon receptor is required for efficient angiogenesis
Authors: Zheng Hui , Qian Juan , Carbone Christopher J. , Leu N. Adrian , Baker Darren P. , Fuchs Serge Y. 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
Angiogenesis is stimulated by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and antagonized by type 1 interferons, including IFN-α/β. On engaging their respective receptors (VEGFR2 and IFNAR), both stimuli activate protein kinase D2 (PKD2) and type 1 IFNs require PKD2 activation and recruitment to IFNAR1 to promote the phosphorylation-dependent ubiquitination, down-regulation, and degradation of the cognate receptor chain, IFNAR1. Data reveal that PKD2 activity is dispensable for VEGF-stimulated down-regulation of VEGFR2. Remarkably, VEGF treatment promotes the recruitment of PKD2 to IFNAR1 as well as ensuing phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and degradation of IFNAR1. In cells exposed to VEGF, phosphorylation-dependent degradation of IFNAR1 leads to an inhibition of type 1 IFN signaling and is required for efficient VEGF-stimulated angiogenesis. Importance of this mechanism for proangiogenic or antiangiogenic responses in cells exposed to counteracting stimuli and the potential medical significance of this regulation are discussed.
Phylogenetic and experimental characterization of an acyl-ACP thioesterase family reveals significant diversity in enzymatic specificity and activity
Authors: Jing Fuyuan , Cantu David C , Tvaruzkova Jarmila , Chipman Jay P , Nikolau Basil J , Yandeau-Nelson Marna D , Reilly Peter J 
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Background
Acyl-acyl carrier protein thioesterases (acyl-ACP TEs) catalyze the hydrolysis of the thioester bond that links the acyl chain to the sulfhydryl group of the phosphopantetheine prosthetic group of ACP. This reaction terminates acyl chain elongation of fatty acid biosynthesis, and in plant seeds it is the biochemical determinant of the fatty acid compositions of storage lipids.

Results
To explore acyl-ACP TE diversity and to identify novel acyl ACP-TEs, 31 acyl-ACP TEs from wide-ranging phylogenetic sources were characterized to ascertain their in vivo activities and substrate specificities. These acyl-ACP TEs were chosen by two different approaches: 1) 24 TEs were selected from public databases on the basis of phylogenetic analysis and fatty acid profile knowledge of their source organisms; and 2) seven TEs were molecularly cloned from oil palm (Elaeis guineensis), coconut (Cocos nucifera) and Cuphea viscosissima, organisms that produce medium-chain and short-chain fatty acids in their seeds. The in vivo substrate specificities of the acyl-ACP TEs were determined in E. coli. Based on their specificities, these enzymes were clustered into three classes: 1) Class I acyl-ACP TEs act primarily on 14- and 16-carbon acyl-ACP substrates; 2) Class II acyl-ACP TEs have broad substrate specificities, with major activities toward 8- and 14-carbon acyl-ACP substrates; and 3) Class III acyl-ACP TEs act predominantly on 8-carbon acyl-ACPs. Several novel acyl-ACP TEs act on short-chain and unsaturated acyl-ACP or 3-ketoacyl-ACP substrates, indicating the diversity of enzymatic specificity in this enzyme family.

Conclusion
These acyl-ACP TEs can potentially be used to diversify the fatty acid biosynthesis pathway to produce novel fatty acids.
Genome-wide association analysis of thirty one production, health, reproduction and body conformation traits in contemporary U.S. Holstein cows
Authors: Cole John B , Wiggans George R , Ma Li , Sonstegard Tad S , Lawlor Thomas J , Crooker Brian A , Van Tassell Curtis P , Yang Jing , Wang Shengwen , Matukumalli Lakshmi K , Da Yang 
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Background
Genome-wide association analysis is a powerful tool for annotating phenotypic effects on the genome and knowledge of genes and chromosomal regions associated with dairy phenotypes is useful for genome and gene-based selection. Here, we report results of a genome-wide analysis of predicted transmitting ability (PTA) of 31 production, health, reproduction and body conformation traits in contemporary Holstein cows.

Results
Genome-wide association analysis identified a number of candidate genes and chromosome regions associated with 31 dairy traits in contemporary U.S. Holstein cows. Highly significant genes and chromosome regions include: BTA13's GNAS region for milk, fat and protein yields; BTA7's INSR region and BTAX's LOC520057 and GRIA3 for daughter pregnancy rate, somatic cell score and productive life; BTA2's LRP1B for somatic cell score; BTA14's DGAT1-NIBP region for fat percentage; BTA1's FKBP2 for protein yields and percentage, BTA26's MGMT and BTA6's PDGFRA for protein percentage; BTA18's 53.9-58.7 Mb region for service-sire and daughter calving ease and service-sire stillbirth; BTA18's PGLYRP1-IGFL1 region for a large number of traits; BTA18's LOC787057 for service-sire stillbirth and daughter calving ease; BTA15's CD82, BTA23's DST and the MOCS1-LRFN2 region for daughter stillbirth; and BTAX's LOC520057 and GRIA3 for daughter pregnancy rate. For body conformation traits, BTA11, BTAX, BTA10, BTA5, and BTA26 had the largest concentrations of SNP effects, and PHKA2 of BTAX and REN of BTA16 had the most significant effects for body size traits. For body shape traits, BTAX, BTA19 and BTA3 were most significant. Udder traits were affected by BTA16, BTA22, BTAX, BTA2, BTA10, BTA11, BTA20, BTA22 and BTA25, teat traits were affected by BTA6, BTA7, BTA9, BTA16, BTA11, BTA26 and BTA17, and feet/legs traits were affected by BTA11, BTA13, BTA18, BTA20, and BTA26.

Conclusions
Genome-wide association analysis identified a number of genes and chromosome regions associated with 31 production, health, reproduction and body conformation traits in contemporary Holstein cows. The results provide useful information for annotating phenotypic effects on the dairy genome and for building consensus of dairy QTL effects.