bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Merging Seasonal Rainfall Forecasts from Multiple Statistical Models through Bayesian Model Averaging
Authors: Wang Q. J. , Schepen Andrew , Robertson David E. 
Published: April 2012

AbstractMerging forecasts from multiple models has the potential to combine the strengths of individual models and to better represent forecast uncertainty than the use of a single model. This study develops a Bayesian model averaging (BMA) method for merging forecasts from multiple models, giving greater weights to better performing models. The study aims for a BMA method that is capable of producing relatively stable weights in the presence of significant sampling variability, leading to robust forecasts for future events. The BMA method is applied to merge forecasts from multiple statistical models for seasonal rainfall forecasts over Australia using climate indices as predictors. It is shown that the fully merged forecasts effectively combine the best skills of the models to maximize the spatial coverage of positive skill. Overall, the skill is low for the first half of the year but more positive for the second half of the year. Models in the Pacific group contribute the most skill, and models in the Indian and extratropical groups also produce useful and sometimes distinct skills. The fully merged probabilistic forecasts are found to be reliable in representing forecast uncertainty spread. The forecast skill holds well when forecast lead time is increased from 0 to 1 month. The BMA method outperforms the approach of using a model with two fixed predictors chosen a priori and the approach of selecting the best model based on predictive performance.
Semidiurnal Baroclinic Wave Momentum Fluxes at Kaena Ridge, Hawaii
Authors: Pinkel Robert , Rainville Luc , Klymak Jody 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Kaena Ridge, Hawaii, is a site of energetic conversion of the semidiurnal barotropic tide. Diffuse baroclinic wave beams emanate from the critical-slope regions near the ridge crest, directed upward and southward from the north flank of the ridge and upward and northward from the south flank. Here, the momentum fluxes associated with generation at the ridge are estimated. Continuous vertical profiles of density and velocity from 80 to 800 m were obtained from the Research Platform Floating Instrument Platform (FLIP) over the southern edge of the ridge, as an aspect of the Hawaii Ocean Mixing Experiment. Data are used to estimate the Reynolds stress, Eulerian buoyancy flux, and the combined Eliassen–Palm flux in the semidiurnal band. An upward–southward stress maximum of ~0.5 × 10−4 m2 s−2 appears at depths of 300–500 m, generally consistent with beam-like behavior. A strong off-ridge buoyancy flux (~0.3 × 10−4 m2 s−3) combines with large along-ridge Reynolds stresses to form an Eliassen–Palm flux whose along-ridge and across-ridge magnitudes are comparable. The stress azimuth rotates clockwise with increasing altitude above the ridge crest. The principal upward–southward beam is found to be at depths 100–300 m shallower than are predicted by an analytic two-dimensional (2D) model and a 3D numerical simulation. This discrepancy is consistent with previous observations of the baroclinic energy flux. If these observed tidal momentum fluxes were to diverge in a 100-m-thick near-surface layer, the forcing would be comparable to a moderate wind stress. Pronounced lateral gradients of baroclinic tidal stresses can be expected offshore of Hawaiian topography.
Assimilation of High-Resolution Mode-S Wind and Temperature Observations in a Regional NWP Model for Nowcasting Applications
Authors: de Haan Siebren , Stoffelen Ad 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
In this paper the beneficial impacts of high-resolution (in space and time) wind and temperature observations from aircraft on very short-range numerical weather forecasting are presented. The observations are retrieved using the tracking and ranging radar from the air traffic control facility at Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam, the Netherlands. This enhanced surveillance radar tracks all aircraft in sight every 4 s, generating one million wind and temperature observations per day in a radius of 270 km around the radar. Nowcasting applications will benefit from improved three-dimensional wind fields. When these observations are assimilated into a numerical model with an hourly update cycle, the short-range three-dimensional wind field forecasts match the observations better than those from an operational forecast cycle, which is updated every 3 h. The positive impact on wind in the first hours of the forecast gradually turns into a neutral impact, when compared to other wind and temperature observations. The timeliness of the forecasts combined with the high resolution of the observations are the main reasons for the observed nowcasting benefits. All in all, the assimilation of high-resolution wind (and temperature) observations is found to be beneficial for nowcasting and short-range forecasts up to 2–3 h.
Capulet and Slingshot share overlapping functions during Drosophila eye morphogenesis
Authors: Lin Chiao-Ming , Lin Pei-Yi , Li Yu-Chiao , Hsu Jui-Chou 
Published: April 2012

Abstract

Background
CAP/Capulet (Capt), Slingshot (Ssh) and Cofilin/Twinstar (Tsr) are actin-binding proteins that restrict actin polymerization. Previously, it was shown that low resolution analyses of loss-of-function mutations in capt, ssh and tsr all show ectopic F-actin accumulation in various Drosophila tissues. In contrast, RNAi depletion of capt, tsr and ssh in Drosophila S2 cells all affect actin-based lamella formation differently. Whether loss of these three related genes might cause the same effect in the same tissue remains unclear.

Methods
Loss-of-function mutant clones were generated using the MARCM or EGUF system whereas overexpression clones were generated using the Flip-out system. Immunostaining were then performed in eye imaginal discs with clones. FRAP was performed in cultured eye discs.

Results
Here, we compared their loss-of-function phenotype at single-cell resolution, using a sheet of epithelial cells in the Drosophila eye imaginal disc as a model system. Surprisingly, we found that capt and ssh, but not tsr, mutant cells within and posterior to the morphogenetic furrow (MF) shared similar phenotypes. The capt/ssh mutant cells possessed: (1) hexagonal cell packing with discontinuous adherens junctions; and (2) largely complementary accumulation of excessive phosphorylated myosin light chain (p-MLC) and F-actin rings at the apical cortex. We further showed that the capt/ssh mutant phenotypes depended on the inactivation of protein kinase A (PKA) and activation of Rho.

Conclusions
Although Capt, Ssh and Tsr were reported to negatively regulate actin polymerization, we found that Capt and Ssh, but not Tsr, share overlapping functions during eye morphogenesis.
Transplantation of insulin-producing cells from umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells for the treatment of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Tsai Pei-Jiun , Wang Hwai-Shi , Shyr Yi-Ming , Weng Zen-Chung , Tai Ling-Chen , Shyu Jia-Fwu , Chen Tien-Hua 
Published: April 2012

AbstractBackgroundAlthough diabetes mellitus (DM) can be treated with islet transplantation, a scarcity of donors limits the utility of this technique. This study investigated whether human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from umbilical cord could be induced efficiently to differentiate into insulin-producing cells. Secondly, we evaluated the effect of portal vein transplantation of these differentiated cells in the treatment of streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats.MethodsMSCs from human umbilical cord were induced in three stages to differentiate into insulin-producing cells and evaluated by immunocytochemistry, reverse transcriptase, and real-time PCR, and ELISA. Differentiated cells were transplanted into the liver of diabetic rats using a Port-A catheter via the portal vein. Blood glucose levels were monitored weekly.ResultsHuman nuclei and C-peptide were detected in the rat liver by immunohistochemistry. Pancreatic β-cell development-related genes were expressed in the differentiated cells. C-peptide release was increased after glucose challengein vitro. Furthermore, after transplantation of differentiated cells into the diabetic rats, blood sugar level decreased. Insulin-producing cells containing human C-peptide and human nuclei were located in the liver.ConclusionThus, a Port-A catheter can be used to transplant differentiated insulin-producing cells from human MSCs into the portal vein to alleviate hyperglycemia among diabetic rats.
T3DB: an integrated database for bacterial type III secretion system
Authors: Wang Yejun , Huang He , Sun Ming’an , Zhang Qing , Guo Dianjing 
Published: April 2012

Abstract

Background
Type III Secretion System (T3SS), which plays important roles in pathogenesis or symbiosis, is widely expressed in a variety of gram negative bacteria. However, lack of unique nomenclature for T3SS genes has hindered T3SS related research. It is necessary to set up a knowledgebase integrating T3SS-related research data to facilitate the communication between different research groups interested in different bacteria.

Description
A T3SS-related Database (T3DB) was developed. T3DB serves as an integrated platform for sequence collection, function annotation, and ortholog classification for T3SS related apparatus, effector, chaperone and regulatory genes. The collection of T3SS-containing bacteria, T3SS-related genes, function annotation, and the ortholog information were all manually curated from literature. BPBAac, a highly efficient T3SS effector prediction tool, was also implemented.

Conclusions
T3DB is the first systematic platform integrating well-annotated T3SS-related gene and protein information to facilitate T3SS and bacterial pathogenecity related research. The newly constructed T3 ortholog clusters may faciliate effective communication between different research groups and will promote de novo discoveries. Besides, the manually-curated high-quality effector and chaperone data are useful for feature analysis and evolutionary studies of these important proteins.
Recurrent 6th nerve palsy in a child following different live attenuated vaccines: case report
Authors: Cheng Daryl R , Crawford Nigel W , Hayman Michael , Buckley Christopher , Buttery Jim P 
Published: April 2012

AbstractBackgroundRecurrent benign 6thnerve palsy in the paediatric age group is uncommon, but has been described following viral and bacterial infections. It has also been temporally associated with immunization, but has not been previously described following two different live attenuated vaccines.Case presentationA case is presented of a 12 month old Caucasian boy with recurrent benign 6thnerve palsy followingmeasles-mumps-rubellaand varicella vaccines, given on separate occasions with complete recovery following each episode. No alternate underlying etiology was identified despite extensive investigations and review.ConclusionsThe majority of benign 6th nerve palsies do not have a sinister cause and have an excellent prognosis, with recovery expected in most cases. The exact pathophysiology is unknown, although hypotheses including autoimmune mechanisms and direct viral invasion could explain the pathophysiology behind immunization related nerve palsies. It is important to rule out other aetiologies with thorough history, physical examination and investigations. There is limited information in the literature regarding the safety of a repeat dose of a live vaccine in this setting. Future immunizations should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Polymorphisms in the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation chain genes as prognostic markers for colorectal cancer
Authors: Lascorz Jesus , Bevier Melanie , Schönfels Witigo V , Kalthoff Holger , Aselmann Heiko , Beckmann Jan , Egberts Jan , Buch Stephan , Becker Thomas , Schreiber Stefan , Hampe Jochen , Hemminki Kari , Försti Asta , Schafmayer Clemens 
Published: April 2012

AbstractBackgroundCurrently, the TNM classification of malignant tumours based on clinicopathological staging remains the standard for colorectal cancer (CRC) prognostication. Recently, we identified the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation chain as a consistently overrepresented category in the published gene expression profiling (GEP) studies on CRC prognosis.MethodsWe evaluated associations of putative regulatory single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes from the oxidative phosphorylation chain with survival and disease prognosis in 613 CRC patients from Northern Germany (PopGen cohort).ResultsTwo SNPs in the 3′ untranslated region of UQCRB (complex III), rs7836698 and rs10504961, were associated with overall survival (HR = 0.52, 95% CI 0.32–0.85 and HR = 0.64, 95% CI 0.42–0.99, for TT carriers). These associations were restricted to the group of patients with cancer located in the colon (HR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.22–0.82 and HR = 0.46, 95% CI 0.25–0.83). Multivariate analysis indicated that both markers might act as independent prognostic markers. Additionally, the TT carriers were ~2 times more likely to develop tumours in the colon than in the rectum. Two SNPs in COX6B1 (complex IV) were associated with lymph node metastasis in a dominant model (rs6510502, OR = 1.75, 95% CI 1.20–2.57; rs10420252, OR = 1.68, 95% CI 1.11–2.53); rs6510502 was associated also with distant metastasis (OR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.09–2.56 in a dominant model).ConclusionsThis is the first report suggesting that markers in genes from the mitochondrial oxidative chain might be prognostic factors for CRC. Additional studies replicating the presented findings are needed.
Prevalence and impact of disability in women who had recently given birth in the UK
Authors: Šumilo Dana , Kurinczuk Jennifer J , Redshaw Maggie E , Gray Ron 
Published: April 2012

AbstractBackgroundMaternity services should take into account the needs of all women, including those related to disability. No reliable information, however, exists on the extent and characteristics of disability in this population in the UK. This brief report provides an overview of the prevalence of disability in women giving birth in the UK as measured by the presence of a limiting longstanding illness (LLI). The demographic, socio-economic, lifestyle and pregnancy related characteristics and child health outcomes are summarised to inform maternity and postnatal care service planning, and policy development.MethodsSecondary analysis of data on 18,231 mother-child pairs from the nationally representative UK Millennium Cohort Study. The baseline interviews with families were carried out in 2001-2002. The LLI prevalence in women who had recently delivered was estimated, and relevant characteristics and differences in outcomes compared using descriptive statistics taking into account the study design and non-response.Results9.4% (95% CI 8.7-10.0) of women who had recently given birth reported having an LLI. Musculoskeletal, respiratory and mental disorders accounted for most of the health problems. A significantly higher proportion of women with an LLI received means-tested financial benefits, had no educational qualifications and suffered from intimate partner violence compared to women who did not have an LLI (49.3% vs 35.3%, 20.4% vs 15.0%, 6.0% vs 3.3%, respectively). They were also more likely to smoke throughout pregnancy than women without an LLI (29.2% vs 20.8%), have a preterm birth (10.9% vs 6.8%) and be lone parents (19.5% vs 13.9%). Only 25.6% of children of mothers with an LLI were breastfed for more than three months compared to 33.4% of infants of mothers who did not have an LLI. At the age of seven years, 12.0% of children of mothers with an LLI had an activity limiting health problem themselves compared to 6.2% of children of mothers without an LLI.ConclusionsDisability in women who had recently delivered is relatively common. It is associated with social and economic inequalities and worse pregnancy and child related outcomes. Apart from condition-specific support during and after pregnancy, disabled women may require extra help from health professionals to quit smoking, continue breastfeeding, and reduce intimate partner violence.
Prospective multi-center study of oncologic outcomes of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy for pT1 renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Kyllo Rachel L , Tanagho Youssef S , Kaouk Jihad H , Stifelman Michael D , Rogers Craig G , Hillyer Shahab P , Sukumar Shyam S , Nepple Kenneth G , Bhayani Sam B 
Published: April 2012

Abstract

Background
Partial nephrectomy has been increasingly recommended over radical nephrectomy for the management of small renal masses based on improved renal functional outcomes without sacrifice of oncologic effectiveness. Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) has been introduced in an effort to offer another minimally invasive option for nephron-sparing surgery. However, reports of RAPN have been limited to short-term perioperative outcomes. The goal of this study is to report and evaluate the initial oncologic outcomes of RAPN. Utilizing prospectively obtained data on RAPN performed by four surgeons at four separate tertiary care centers, we selected patients with unilateral, localized, non-familial, pathologically-confirmed pT1 renal cell carcinoma and a minimum post-operative follow-up of 12 months.

Methods
Utilizing prospectively obtained data on RAPN performed by four surgeons at four separate tertiary care centers, we selected patients with unilateral, localized, non-familial, pathologically-confirmed pT1 renal cell carcinoma and a minimum post-operative follow-up of 12 months. Survival analysis (disease-free, cancer-specific, and overall survival) was performed, and Kaplan-Meier curves were generated.

Results
RAPN was performed in 124 patients with a median tumor size of 3.0 cm (IQR 2.2-4.2 cm). Median follow-up was 29 months (range 12-46 months). Positive parenchymal surgical margins occurred in two patients (1.6 %), both of whom were recurrence-free at 30 and 34 months after surgery. The three-year Kaplan-Meier estimated disease-free survival was 94.9 %, cancer-specific survival was 99.1 %, and overall survival was 97.3 %.

Conclusions
In our cohort of patients with small renal carcinomas who were followed for a median of 29 months, recurrence and survival outcomes were similar to those reported for open and laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. Further long-term outcomes will be needed to definitively claim that RAPN is oncologically equivalent to other surgical approaches.
Clinical capabilities of graduates of an outcomes-based integrated medical program
Authors: Scicluna Helen A , Grimm Michael C , O’Sullivan Anthony J , Harris Peter , Pilotto Louis S , Jones Philip D , McNeil H Patrick 
Published: April 2012

Abstract

Background
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) Faculty of Medicine replaced its old content-based curriculum with an innovative new 6-year undergraduate entry outcomes-based integrated program in 2004. This paper is an initial evaluation of the perceived and assessed clinical capabilities of recent graduates of the new outcomes-based integrated medical program compared to benchmarks from traditional content-based or process-based programs.

Method
Self-perceived capability in a range of clinical tasks and assessment of medical education as preparation for hospital practice were evaluated in recent graduates after 3 months working as junior doctors. Responses of the 2009 graduates of the UNSW’s new outcomes-based integrated medical education program were compared to those of the 2007 graduates of UNSW’s previous content-based program, to published data from other Australian medical schools, and to hospital-based supervisor evaluations of their clinical competence.

Results
Three months into internship, graduates from UNSW’s new outcomes-based integrated program rated themselves to have good clinical and procedural skills, with ratings that indicated significantly greater capability than graduates of the previous UNSW content-based program. New program graduates rated themselves significantly more prepared for hospital practice in the confidence (reflective practice), prevention (social aspects of health), interpersonal skills (communication), and collaboration (teamwork) subscales than old program students, and significantly better or equivalent to published benchmarks of graduates from other Australian medical schools. Clinical supervisors rated new program graduates highly capable for teamwork, reflective practice and communication.

Conclusions
Medical students from an outcomes-based integrated program graduate with excellent self-rated and supervisor-evaluated capabilities in a range of clinically-relevant outcomes. The program-wide curriculum reform at UNSW has had a major impact in developing capabilities in new graduates that are important for 21st century medical practice.
Myxobacteria: natural pharmaceutical factories
Authors: Diez Juana , Martinez Javier P , Mestres Jordi , Sasse Florenz , Frank Ronald , Meyerhans Andreas 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Myxobacteria are amongst the top producers of natural products. The diversity and unique structural properties of their secondary metabolites is what make these social microbes highly attractive for drug discovery. Screening of products derived from these bacteria has revealed a puzzling amount of hits against infectious and non-infectious human diseases. Preying mainly on other bacteria and fungi, why would these ancient hunters manufacture compounds beneficial for us? The answer may be the targeting of shared processes and structural features conserved throughout evolution.
Association of the genetic variants of luteinizing hormone, luteinizing hormone receptor and polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Liu Nana , Ma Yanmin , Wang Shuyu , Zhang Xiaowei , Zhang Qiufang , Zhang Xue , Fu Li , Qiao Jie 
Published: April 2012

Abstract

Background
High circulating luteinizing hormone (LH) level is a typical biochemical feature of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) whose pathophysiology is still unclear. Certain mutations of LH and LH receptor (LHR) may lead to changes in bioactivity of these hormones. The aim of this study was determine the role of the LH and LHR polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of PCOS using a genetic approach.

Methods
315 PCOS women and 212 controls were screened for the gene variants of LH G1052A and LHR rs61996318 polymorphisms by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).

Results
PCOS patients had significantly more A allele frequency of LH G1052A mutations than controls (p=0.001). Within PCOS group, carriers of LH 1052A allele had lower LH (p=0.05) and higher fasting glucose levels (p=0.04). No subjects were identified with LHR rs61996318 polymorphisms. A new LHR single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) was found without clear association with PCOS.

Conclusions
Results suggested LH G1052A mutation might influence PCOS susceptibility and phenotypes.