bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Low-Frequency Variability, Coherence Resonance, and Phase Selection in a Low-Order Model of the Wind-Driven Ocean Circulation
Authors: Pierini Stefano 
Published: May 2011

Abstract
In this paper, a low-order spectral quasigeostrophic (QG) model of the wind-driven ocean circulation is derived and used to analyze the low-order character of the intrinsic low-frequency variability of the midlatitude double-gyre ocean circulation and of the related coherence resonance and phase selection phenomena. The model includes an exponential in the basis functions that allows for westward intensification, retains only four modes in the Galerkin projection, is defined in a rectangular domain, and is forced by deterministic and stochastic winds, thus extending previous low-order QG ocean models. The solution under steady forcing is first obtained, and the results are also analyzed in terms of dynamical systems theory. A homoclinic bifurcation (with the wind amplitude chosen as the control parameter) leads to intrinsic decadal relaxation oscillations (ROs) similar in several respects to those obtained with primitive equation models. The system is then forced with an additional red noise wind, and, in a parameter range preceding the global bifurcation, a coherence resonance scenario very similar to the one found with a primitive equation model of the Kuroshio Extension is obtained: this suggests that such a phenomenon is of low-order character. To study the RO excitation mechanism, a method denoted as phase selection is proposed. The system is forced with additional fictitious periodic winds that produce an emergence of ROs yielding strong phase dependence with the periodic forcing. The subsequent analysis reveals the character of the wind forcing that is most likely to excite a RO. All the results are discussed within the general framework of climate dynamics.
Orogenic Convection in Subtropical South America as Seen by the TRMM Satellite
Authors: Rasmussen Kristen L. , Houze Robert A. 
Published: May 2011

AbstractExtreme orogenic convective storms in southeastern South America are divided into three categories: storms with deep convective cores, storms with wide convective cores, and storms containing broad stratiform regions. Data from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission satellite’s Precipitation Radar show that storms with wide convective cores are the most frequent, tending to originate near the Sierra de Cordoba range. Downslope flow at upper levels caps a nocturnally enhanced low-level jet, thus preventing convection from breaking out until the jet hits a steep slope of terrain, such as the Sierra de Cordoba Mountains or Andean foothills, so that the moist low-level air is lifted enough to release the instability and overcome the cap. This capping and triggering is similar to the way intense convection is released near the northwestern Himalayas. However, the intense storms with wide convective cores over southeastern South America are unlike their Himalayan counterparts in that they exhibit leading-line/trailing-stratiform organization and are influenced by baroclinic troughs more similar to storms east of the Rocky Mountains in the United States. Comparison of South American storms containing wide convective cores with storms in other parts of the world contributes to a global understanding of how major mountain ranges influence precipitating cloud systems.
Exploring a Multiresolution Modeling Approach within the Shallow-Water Equations
Authors: Ringler Todd D. , Jacobsen Doug , Gunzburger Max , Ju Lili , Duda Michael , Skamarock William 
Published: May 2011

Abstract
The ability to solve the global shallow-water equations with a conforming, variable-resolution mesh is evaluated using standard shallow-water test cases. While the long-term motivation for this study is the creation of a global climate modeling framework capable of resolving different spatial and temporal scales in different regions, the process begins with an analysis of the shallow-water system in order to better understand the strengths and weaknesses of the approach developed herein. The multiresolution meshes are spherical centroidal Voronoi tessellations where a single, user-supplied density function determines the region(s) of fine- and coarse-mesh resolution. The shallow-water system is explored with a suite of meshes ranging from quasi-uniform resolution meshes, where the grid spacing is globally uniform, to highly variable resolution meshes, where the grid spacing varies by a factor of 16 between the fine and coarse regions. The potential vorticity is found to be conserved to within machine precision and the total available energy is conserved to within a time-truncation error. This result holds for the full suite of meshes, ranging from quasi-uniform resolution and highly variable resolution meshes. Based on shallow-water test cases 2 and 5, the primary conclusion of this study is that solution error is controlled primarily by the grid resolution in the coarsest part of the model domain. This conclusion is consistent with results obtained by others. When these variable-resolution meshes are used for the simulation of an unstable zonal jet, the core features of the growing instability are found to be largely unchanged as the variation in the mesh resolution increases. The main differences between the simulations occur outside the region of mesh refinement and these differences are attributed to the additional truncation error that accompanies increases in grid spacing. Overall, the results demonstrate support for this approach as a path toward multiresolution climate system modeling.
Diurnal Variations of Warm-Season Precipitation East of the Tibetan Plateau over China
Authors: Bao Xinghua , Zhang Fuqing , Sun Jianhua 
Published: May 2011

This study explores the diurnal variations of the warm-season precipitation to the east of the Tibetan Plateau over China using the high-resolution NOAA/Climate Prediction Center morphing technique (CMORPH) precipitation data and the Global Forecast System (GFS) gridded analyses during mid-May to mid-August of 2003–09. Complementary to the past studies using satellite or surface observations, it is found that there are strong diurnal variations in the summertime precipitation over the focus domain to the east of the Tibetan Plateau. These diurnal precipitation cycles are strongly associated with several thermally driven regional mountain–plains solenoids due to the differential heating between the Tibetan Plateau, the highlands, the plains, and the ocean. The diurnal cycles differ substantially from region to region and during the three different month-long periods: the pre-mei-yu period (15 May–15 June), the mei-yu period (15 June–15 July), and the post-mei-yu period (15 July–15 August). In particular, there is a substantial difference in the propagation speed and eastward extent of the peak phase of the dominant diurnal precipitation cycle that is originated from the Tibetan Plateau. This diurnal peak has a faster (slower) eastward propagation speed, the more (less) coherent propagation duration, and thus covers the longest (shortest) distance to the east during the pre-mei-yu (post-mei-yu) period than that during the mei-yu period. The differences in the mean midlatitude westerly flow and in the positioning and strength of the western Pacific subtropical high during different periods are the key factors in explaining the difference in the propagation speed and the eastward extent of this dominant diurnal precipitation cycle.
Robotic‐Assisted Parathyroidectomy
Authors: Tolley Neil , Arora Asit , Palazzo Fausto , Garas George , Dhawan Ranju , Cox Jeremy , Darzi Ara 
Published: May 2011

ObjectiveTargeted parathyroidectomy is the gold standard for localized parathyroid disease. A robotic‐assisted approach has not been investigated. The aim was to assess the feasibility of a robotic technique that avoids a neck scar.Study DesignFeasibility study.SettingTertiary referral center.Subjects and MethodsEleven patients with primary hyperparathyroidism were prospectively evaluated. Triple modality concordant localization was a prerequisite. All patients underwent robotic‐assisted parathyroidectomy (RAP). Outcome variables assessed were operative time, voice change, biochemical cure, and histopathological confirmation. Patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) included subjective assessment of pain and scar cosmesis, Voice Handicap Index 2, and EQ‐5D quality‐of‐life assessment. Mean follow‐up was 6 months (range, 3‐12 months).ResultsThe parathyroid adenoma was successfully excised in all cases with negligible blood loss (<5 mL). There was 1 conversion. There was no voice change in any case. Robot docking time plateaued to 10 minutes after 8 cases. Mean exposure and console times (31 and 51 minutes, respectively) were affected by body habitus. The mean visual analog scale for scar cosmesis was 75% on the first postoperative day, improving to 92% at 6 months and 95% at 1 year. Pain scores decreased to 8% at 2 weeks. All 5 EQ‐5D quality‐of‐life parameters significantly improved following surgery.ConclusionThe robotic approach is feasible for performing targeted parathyroidectomy that avoids a neck scar. The clinical efficacy and cost‐effectiveness of the robotic approach compared with conventional targeted parathyroidectomy warrant further evaluation to establish if this represents a viable alternative to the existing targeted techniques.
Feasibility study of a randomized controlled trial protocol to examine clinical effectiveness of shoulder strapping in acute stroke patients
Authors: Appel Caroline , Mayston Margaret , Perry Lin 
Published: May 2011

Objective: The majority of stroke patients experience upper limb motor impairment and reduced ability to perform basic activities. Shoulder strapping has been reported as a beneficial adjunct to rehabilitation therapies but has not been rigorously trialled. This study tested the feasibility of recruitment, intervention and outcome assessment protocols for future trial of the clinical effectiveness of shoulder strapping. Design and setting: Feasibility study using a randomized controlled trial in an East London stroke service. Subjects: Fourteen acute stroke patients with mild to moderate upper limb hemiparesis were recruited between October 2004 and July 2005. Intervention: Five strapping methods and criteria for use were identified from the literature. Shoulder strapping applied for one month in addition to routine rehabilitation was compared to routine rehabilitation only. Main measures: The Motor Assessment Scale, Fugl Meyer Scale – Arm section and the Nine Hole Peg Test were measured at baseline and 1, 2, 3 and 5 weeks later. The Stroke-specific Quality of Life questionnaire was delivered at 6 and 12 weeks post stroke. Results: Useful findings were demonstrated in relation to the feasibility of all elements of the protocol. Motor Assessment Scale findings showed a small-moderate (0.27) effect size for the strapping intervention used as an adjunct to routine rehabilitation compared to routine rehabilitation alone. Sample size calculation indicated 312 participants would be adequate to test a null hypothesis of nil benefit additional to routine rehabilitation. Conclusion: Findings supported the value of pilot-testing, and enabled revision of the study protocol for future definitive trial.
Selective layer chemical mechanical planarization process mimicked with atomic force microscope
Authors: Ilie F , Tita C 
Published: May 2011

To understand the mechanisms of chemical mechanical planarization (CMP), an atomic force microscope (AFM) was used to characterize polished layer surfaces formed by selective transfer after a series of polishing experiments. The AFM allows one to examine the effects of applying highly localized stress to a surface. In the presence of solutions, tribochemical friction and wear can be investigated. We present the results of fundamental studies of the simultaneous application of chemical agents and mechanical stress using a single asperity model and a solid surface. At the same time, we show the consequences of combining highly localized mechanical stress (due to contact with AFM tip) and exposure to aqueous solutions of known pH. The experiment simulates several features of a single particle–substrate–slurry interaction in CMP. To optimize the CMP process, one needs to obtain information on the interaction between the slurry abrasive particles and the polished surface. To study such interactions, we used AFM. An AFM tip of radius of about 50 nm was used to mimic a single abrasive particle, typical of those found in CMP slurry. Surface analysis of selective layer using the AFM revealed detailed surface characteristics obtained by CMP. Studying the selective layer CMP, of which the predominant one is copper (in proportion of over 85 per cent), we found that the AFM scanning removes the surface oxide layer in different rates depending on the depth of removal and the pH of the solution. It was found that removal mechanisms depend also on the slurry chemistry, potential, percentage of oxidizer, and the applied load. We show that linear scans and raster scans display significantly different material removal rates. Oxide removal happens considerably faster than the copper CMP removal from the selective layer. This is in agreement with generally accepted models of copper CMP. Both long-range and the friction forces acting between the AFM tip and surface during the polishing process were measured. The correlation between those forces and removal rate is discussed. At the same time, this article complements recent observations of tip-induced friction and wear and growth in a number of inorganic surfaces in aqueous solutions.
Making sense of the ‘Big Society’: Social work and the moral order
Authors: Jordan Bill 
Published: May 2011

• Summary: This article analyses the ‘Big Society’ agenda of the UK coalition government as a response to New Labour’s regulation of society through incentives, contracts, targets and micro-management. • Findings: It argues that two sides of the programme are relevant for social work. Initially, most attention has understandably focused on the public spending cuts – rolling back the state and transferring responsibilities to voluntary organizations. But in the longer term, of equal significance will be its emphasis on increased citizen participation, empowered communities and collective action. • Applications: This agenda poses challenges and opportunities for a practice which is less individualistic, formal and desk-bound; but it also raises issues about the wider solidarities upon which equality and social justice depend.
Participating in cardiac rehabilitation: a systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative data
Authors: Neubeck Lis , Freedman S Ben , Clark Alexander M , Briffa Tom , Bauman Adrian , Redfern Julie 
Published: May 2011

Background: Participation in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) benefits patients with coronary heart disease (CHD), yet worldwide only some 15–30% of those eligible attend. To improve understanding of the reasons for poor participation we undertook a systematic review and meta-synthesis of the qualitative literature. Methods: Qualitative studies identifying patient barriers and enablers to attendance at CR were identified by searching multiple electronic databases, reference lists, relevant conference lists, grey literature, and keyword searching of the internet (1990–2010). Studies were selected if they included patients with CHD and reviewed experience or understanding about CR. Meta-synthesis was used to review the papers and to synthesize the data. Results: From 1165 papers, 34 unique studies were included after screening. These included 1213 patients from eight countries. Study methodology included interviews ( n = 25), focus groups ( n = 5), and mixed-methods ( n = 4). Key reasons for not attending CR were physical barriers, such as lack of transport, or financial cost, and personal barriers, such as embarrassment about participation, or misunderstanding the reasons for onset of CHD or the purpose of CR. Conclusions: There is a vast amount of qualitative research which investigates patients’ reasons for non-attendance at CR. Key issues include system-level and patient-level barriers, which are potentially modifiable. Future research would best be directed at investigating strategies to overcome these barriers.
Glucose levels are associated with cardiovascular disease and death in an international cohort of normal glycaemic and dysglycaemic men and women: the EpiDREAM cohort study
Authors: Anand SS , Dagenais GR , Mohan V , Diaz R , Probstfield J , Freeman R , Shaw J , Lanas F , Avezum A , Budaj A , Jung H , Desai D , Bosch J , Yusuf S , Gerstein HC 
Published: May 2011

Aims: In an international prospective cohort study we assessed the relationship between glucose levels and incident cardiovascular events and death. Methods and results: 18,990 men and women were screened for entry into the DREAM clinical trial from 21 different countries. All had clinical and biochemical information collected at baseline, including an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and were prospectively followed over a median (IQR) of 3.5 (3.0–4.0) years for incident cardiovascular (CV) events including coronary artery disease (CAD), stroke, congestive heart failure (CHF) requiring hospitalization, and death. After OGTT screening, 8000 subjects were classified as normoglycaemic, 8427 had impaired fasting glucose (IFG) or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and 2563 subjects had newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). There were incident events in 491 individuals: 282 CAD, 54 strokes, 19 CHF, and 164 died. The annualized CV or death event rate was 0.79/100 person-years in the overall cohort, 0.51/100 person-years in normoglycaemics, 0.92/100 person-years among subjects with IFG and/or IGT at baseline, and 1.27/100 person-years among those with DM ( p for trend <0.0001). Among all subjects, a 1 mmol/l increase in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) or a 2.52 mmol/l increase in the 2-h post-OGTT glucose was associated with a hazard ratio increase in the risk of CV events or death of 1.17 (95% CI 1.13–1.22). Conclusions: In this large multiethnic cohort, the risk of CV events or death increased progressively among individuals who were normoglycaemic, IFG or IGT, and newly diagnosed diabetics. A 1 mmol/l increase in FPG was associated with a 17% increase in the risk of future CV events or death. Therapeutic or behavioural interventions designed to either prevent glucose levels from rising, or lower glucose among individuals with dysglycaemia should be evaluated.
Antiangiogenic antitumor activities of IGFBP-3 are mediated by IGF-independent suppression of Erk1/2 activation and Egr-1–mediated transcriptional events
Authors: Kim Jai-Hyun , Choi Dong Soon , Lee Ok-Hee , Oh Seung-Hyun , Lippman Scott M. , Lee Ho-Young 
Published: May 2011

AbstractMost antiangiogenic therapies currently being evaluated in clinical trials target the vascular endothelial growth factor pathway; however, the tumor vasculature can acquire resistance to vascular endothelial growth factor-targeted therapy by shifting to other angiogenesis mechanisms. Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) has been reported to suppress tumor growth and angiogenesis by both IGF-dependent and IGF-independent mechanisms; however, understanding of its IGF-independent mechanisms is limited. We observed that IGFBP-3 blocked tumor angiogenesis and growth in non–small cell lung cancer and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Conditioned media from an IGFBP-3–treated non–small cell lung cancer cell line displayed a significantly decreased capacity to induce HUVEC proliferation and aortic sprouting. In cancer cells, IGFBP-3 directly interacted with Erk1/2, leading to inactivation of Erk1/2 and Elk-1, and suppressed transcription of early growth response protein 1 and its target genes, basic fibroblast growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor. These data suggest that IGF-independent Erk1/2 inactivation and decreased IGFBP-3–induced Egr-1 expression block the autocrine and paracrine loops of angiogenic factors in vascular endothelial and cancer cells. Together, these findings provide a molecular framework of IGFBP-3's IGF-independent antiangiogenic antitumor activities. Future studies are needed for development of IGFBP-3 as a new line of antiangiogengic cancer drug.
ArrayInitiative - a tool that simplifies creating custom Affymetrix CDFs
Authors: Overall Christopher C , Carr D Andrew , Tabari Ehsan S , Thompson Kevin J , Weller Jennifer W 
Published: May 2011

Abstract

Background
Probes on a microarray represent a frozen view of a genome and are quickly outdated when new sequencing studies extend our knowledge, resulting in significant measurement error when analyzing any microarray experiment. There are several bioinformatics approaches to improve probe assignments, but without in-house programming expertise, standardizing these custom array specifications as a usable file (e.g. as Affymetrix CDFs) is difficult, owing mostly to the complexity of the specification file format. However, without correctly standardized files there is a significant barrier for testing competing analysis approaches since this file is one of the required inputs for many commonly used algorithms. The need to test combinations of probe assignments and analysis algorithms led us to develop ArrayInitiative, a tool for creating and managing custom array specifications.

Results
ArrayInitiative is a standalone, cross-platform, rich client desktop application for creating correctly formatted, custom versions of manufacturer-provided (default) array specifications, requiring only minimal knowledge of the array specification rules and file formats. Users can import default array specifications, import probe sequences for a default array specification, design and import a custom array specification, export any array specification to multiple output formats, export the probe sequences for any array specification and browse high-level information about the microarray, such as version and number of probes. The initial release of ArrayInitiative supports the Affymetrix 3' IVT expression arrays we currently analyze, but as an open source application, we hope that others will contribute modules for other platforms.

Conclusions
ArrayInitiative allows researchers to create new array specifications, in a standard format, based upon their own requirements. This makes it easier to test competing design and analysis strategies that depend on probe definitions. Since the custom array specifications are easily exported to the manufacturer's standard format, researchers can analyze these customized microarray experiments using established software tools, such as those available in Bioconductor.