bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Finescale Evaluation of Drought in a Tropical Setting: Case Study in Sri Lanka
Authors: Lyon Bradfield , Zubair Lareef , Ralapanawe Vidhura , Yahiya Zeenas 
Published: August 2008

Abstract
In regions of climatic heterogeneity, finescale assessment of drought risk is needed for policy making and drought management, mitigation, and adaptation. The relationship between drought relief payments (a proxy for drought risk) and meteorological drought indicators is examined through a retrospective analysis for Sri Lanka (1960–2000) based on records of district-level drought relief payments and a dense network of 284 rainfall stations. The standardized precipitation index and a percent-of-annual-average index for rainfall accumulated over 3, 6, 9, and 12 months were used, gridded to a spatial resolution of 10 km. An encouraging correspondence was identified between the spatial distribution of meteorological drought occurrence and historical drought relief payments at the district scale. Time series of drought indices averaged roughly over the four main climatic zones of Sri Lanka showed statistically significant (p &lt; 0.01) relationships with the occurrence of drought relief. The 9-month cumulative drought index provided the strongest relationships overall, although 6- and 12-month indicators provided generally similar results. Some cases of appreciable drought without corresponding relief payments could be attributed to fiscal pressures, as during the 1970s. Statistically significant relationships between drought indicators and relief payments point to the potential utility of meteorological drought assessments for disaster risk management. In addition, the study provides an empirical approach to testing which meteorological drought indicators bear a statistically significant relationship to drought relief across a wide range of tropical climates.
Pre- and Post-1997/98 Westerly Wind Events and Equatorial Pacific Cold Tongue Warming*
Authors: Harrison D. E. , Chiodi A. M. 
Published: August 2008

Abstract
Westerly wind events (WWEs) in the western equatorial Pacific have previously been shown to cause significant warming of sea surface temperature (SST) in the eastern equatorial Pacific. Observational statistics compiled during and prior to the large El Niño event of 1997/98 link WWEs to substantial (up to 3°C) warming in the eastern Pacific cold tongue region. Since 1998, however, relatively little WWE-related cold tongue warming has been observed, and warm equatorial Pacific SST anomalies (SSTAs) have tended to be trapped near the date line rather than extending to the American coast as in a classical El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) composite. Here, the relationship between WWEs and cold tongue warming is revisited using in situ and operational forecast winds and in situ and satellite-based SST. Significant differences are found in the basin-scale zonal wind anomalies associated with WWEs that occurred before and after 1997/98. Although the post-1997/98 composite WWE westerly anomalies are very similar to their predecessors within the WWE regions, conditions east of the WWE regions are different; there are enhanced equatorial easterlies in the post-1997/98 cases. General ocean circulation model experiments are conducted to explore the extent to which the observed changes in the character of post-1997/98 WWEs can explain the recent behavior of cold tongue SSTAs. It is found that the wind differences can account for the changes in the average cold tongue warming associated with pre- and post-1997/98 WWEs.
Diabatic and Orographic Forcing of Northern Winter Stationary Waves and Storm Tracks
Authors: Chang Edmund K. M. 
Published: August 2008

Abstract
In this study, a dry global circulation model is used to examine the contributions made by orographic and diabatic forcings in shaping the zonal asymmetries in the earth’s Northern Hemisphere (NH) winter climate. By design, the model mean flow is forced to bear a close resemblance to the observed zonal mean and stationary waves. The model also provides a decent simulation of the storm tracks. In particular, the maxima over the Pacific and Atlantic, and minima over Asia and North America, are fairly well simulated. The model also successfully simulates the observation that the Atlantic storm track is stronger than the Pacific storm track, despite stronger baroclinicity over the Pacific. Sensitivity experiments are performed by imposing and removing various parts of the total forcings.
In terms of the NH winter stationary waves in the upper troposphere, results of this study are largely consistent with previous studies. Diabatic forcings explain most of the modeled stationary waves, with orographic forcings playing only a secondary role, and feedbacks due to eddy fluxes probably play only minor roles in most cases. Nevertheless, results of this study suggest that eddy fluxes may be important in modifying the response to orographic forcings in the absence of zonal asymmetries in diabatic heating. On the other hand, unlike the conclusion reached by previous studies, it is argued that the convergence of eddy momentum fluxes is important in forcing the oceanic lows in the lower troposphere, in agreement with one’s synoptic intuition.
Regarding the NH winter storm-track distribution, results of this study suggest that NH extratropical heating is the most important forcing. Zonal asymmetries in NH extratropical heating act to force the Pacific storm track to shift equatorward and the Atlantic storm track to shift poleward, attain a southwest–northeast tilt, and intensify. It appears to be the main forcing responsible for explaining why the Atlantic storm track is stronger than the Pacific storm track. Tibet and the Rockies are also important, mainly in suppressing the storm tracks over the continents, forcing a clearer separation between the two storm tracks. In contrast, asymmetries in tropical heating appear to play only a minor role in forcing the model storm-track distribution.
Toward Optimal Closure of the Earth's Top-of-Atmosphere Radiation Budget
Authors: Loeb Norman G. , Wielicki Bruce A. , Doelling David R. , Smith G. Louis , Keyes Dennis F. , Kato Seiji , Manalo-Smith Natividad , Wong Takmeng 
Published: August 2008

Abstract
Despite recent improvements in satellite instrument calibration and the algorithms used to determine reflected solar (SW) and emitted thermal (LW) top-of-atmosphere (TOA) radiative fluxes, a sizeable imbalance persists in the average global net radiation at the TOA from satellite observations. This imbalance is problematic in applications that use earth radiation budget (ERB) data for climate model evaluation, estimate the earth’s annual global mean energy budget, and in studies that infer meridional heat transports. This study provides a detailed error analysis of TOA fluxes based on the latest generation of Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) gridded monthly mean data products [the monthly TOA/surface averages geostationary (SRBAVG-GEO)] and uses an objective constrainment algorithm to adjust SW and LW TOA fluxes within their range of uncertainty to remove the inconsistency between average global net TOA flux and heat storage in the earth–atmosphere system. The 5-yr global mean CERES net flux from the standard CERES product is 6.5 W m−2, much larger than the best estimate of 0.85 W m−2 based on observed ocean heat content data and model simulations. The major sources of uncertainty in the CERES estimate are from instrument calibration (4.2 W m−2) and the assumed value for total solar irradiance (1 W m−2). After adjustment, the global mean CERES SW TOA flux is 99.5 W m−2, corresponding to an albedo of 0.293, and the global mean LW TOA flux is 239.6 W m−2. These values differ markedly from previously published adjusted global means based on the ERB Experiment in which the global mean SW TOA flux is 107 W m−2 and the LW TOA flux is 234 W m−2.
An Algorithm for Real-Time Rainfall Rate Estimation by Using Polarimetric Radar: RIME
Authors: Silvestro Francesco , Rebora Nicola , Ferraris Luca 
Published: August 2008

Abstract
Polarimetric radars provide measurements that describe the shape and dimensions of hydrometeors and are unaffected by calibration, attenuation, and the presence of ice. These measurements can potentially lead to a more detailed description of hydrometeors and to an improvement in quantitative rainfall rate estimation. The authors present an algorithm that exploits polarimetric measures for rain-rate estimation and investigate its application in a real-time framework by using measurements from the C-band polarimetric radar at Monte Settepani in Savona, Italy. It is based on a flowchart decision tree that allows the use of the best rain-rate retrieval algorithm, depending on the value of polarimetric variables. The methodology was applied to a real-time framework for more than a year, and the results were presented for all the significant events observed during the test period. To evaluate the performance of the algorithm, a comparison was made with rain gauge observation from a dense regional network. The performances of the algorithm were compared with those obtained by standard operational Z–R formulations to evaluate the benefit of this approach for operational applications.
Nonnormal Perturbation Growth of Pure Thermohaline Circulation Using a 2D Zonally Averaged Model
Authors: Alexander Julie , Monahan Adam H. 
Published: August 2008

AbstractGeneralized linear stability theory is used to calculate the optimal initial conditions that result in transient amplification of the thermohaline circulation (THC) in a zonally averaged single-basin ocean model. The eigenmodes of the tangent linear model verify that the system is asymptotically stable, but the nonnormality of the system permits the growth of perturbations for a finite period through the interference of nonorthogonal eigenmodes. It is found that the maximum amplification of the THC anomalies occurs after 6 yr with both the thermally and salinity-driven components playing major roles in the amplification process. The transient amplification of THC anomalies is due to the constructive and destructive interference of a large number of eigenmodes, and the evolution over time is determined by how the interference pattern evolves. It is found that five of the most highly nonnormal eigenmodes are critical to the initial cancellation of the salinity and temperature contributions to the THC, while 11 oscillating modes with decay time scales ranging from 2 to 6 yr are the major contributors at the time of maximum amplification. This analysis demonstrates that the different dynamics of salinity and temperature anomalies allow the dramatic growth of perturbations to the THC on relatively short (interannual to decadal) time scales.
Large-Eddy Simulations of a Drizzling, Stratocumulus-Topped Marine Boundary Layer
Authors: Ackerman Andrew S. , vanZanten Margreet C. , Stevens Bjorn , Savic-Jovcic Verica , Bretherton Christopher S. , Chlond Andreas , Golaz Jean-Christophe , Jiang Hongli , Khairoutdinov Marat , Krueger Steven K. , Lewellen David C. , Lock Adrian , Moeng Chin-Hoh , Nakamura Kozo , Petters Markus D. , Snider Jefferson R. , Weinbrecht Sonja , Zulauf Mike 
Published: August 2008

Abstract
Cloud water sedimentation and drizzle in a stratocumulus-topped boundary layer are the focus of an intercomparison of large-eddy simulations. The context is an idealized case study of nocturnal stratocumulus under a dry inversion, with embedded pockets of heavily drizzling open cellular convection. Results from 11 groups are used. Two models resolve the size distributions of cloud particles, and the others parameterize cloud water sedimentation and drizzle. For the ensemble of simulations with drizzle and cloud water sedimentation, the mean liquid water path (LWP) is remarkably steady and consistent with the measurements, the mean entrainment rate is at the low end of the measured range, and the ensemble-average maximum vertical wind variance is roughly half that measured. On average, precipitation at the surface and at cloud base is smaller, and the rate of precipitation evaporation greater, than measured. Including drizzle in the simulations reduces convective intensity, increases boundary layer stratification, and decreases LWP for nearly all models. Including cloud water sedimentation substantially decreases entrainment, decreases convective intensity, and increases LWP for most models. In nearly all cases, LWP responds more strongly to cloud water sedimentation than to drizzle. The omission of cloud water sedimentation in simulations is strongly discouraged, regardless of whether or not precipitation is present below cloud base.
Innovation translates into antidepressant effectiveness
Authors: Goodwin GM 
Published: August 2008

Abstract Unipolar depression is a major cause of disability in developed societies. There is significant unmet need because existing treatments are neither as effective nor as free of adverse effects as we would hope. Agomelatine is a new antidepressant with a novel profile of pharmacological action. Its efficacy in major depression has been reported in short-term placebo-controlled trials and in direct head-to-head comparison with existing products. The pooling of data from the agomelatine short-term studies allows analysis of sub-groups within the study populations. There is a trend for a larger effect size to be seen with more severely ill patients as a consequence of placebo responses falling. Efficacy is also reported in the maintenance of effect seen after clinical response in a recently completed relapse prevention study, analysed initially after 6 months. What is unusual, certainly compared with the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and venlafaxine, is the clear absence of an excess of early relapses soon after agomelatine withdrawal. This parallels the absence of an immediate withdrawal effect seen in the pattern of subjective symptoms in another study. It underlines the distinct and novel pharmacological properties of the product, and has evident clinical advantages for the patient. Agomelatine is well tolerated in other respects; only occasional dizziness emerges at significant rates higher than with placebo in the controlled data.
Snrk-1 is involved in multiple steps of angioblast development and acts via notch signaling pathway in artery-vein specification in vertebrates
Authors: Chun Chang Z. , Kaur Sukhbir , Samant Ganesh V. , Wang Ling , Pramanik Kallal , Garnaas Maija K. , Li Keguo , Field Lyndsay , Mukhopadhyay Debabrata , Ramchandran Ramani 
Published: August 2008

AbstractIn vertebrates, molecular mechanisms dictate angioblasts' migration and subsequent differentiation into arteries and veins. In this study, we used a microarray screen to identify a novel member of the sucrose nonfermenting related kinase (snrk-1) family of serine/threonine kinases expressed specifically in the embryonic zebrafish vasculature and investigated its function in vivo. Using gain- and loss-of-function studies in vivo, we show that Snrk-1 plays an essential role in the migration, maintenance, and differentiation of angioblasts. The kinase function of Snrk-1 is critical for migration and maintenance, but not for the differentiation of angioblasts. In vitro, snrk-1 knockdown endothelial cells show only defects in migration. The snrk-1 gene acts downstream or parallel to notch and upstream of gridlock during artery-vein specification, and the human gene compensates for zebrafish snrk-1 knockdown, suggesting evolutionary conservation of function.
Molecular evolution of the keratin associated protein gene family in mammals, role in the evolution of mammalian hair
Authors: Wu Dong-Dong , Irwin David M , Zhang Ya-Ping 
Published: August 2008

Abstract

Background
Hair is unique to mammals. Keratin associated proteins (KRTAPs), which contain two major groups: high/ultrahigh cysteine and high glycine-tyrosine, are one of the major components of hair and play essential roles in the formation of rigid and resistant hair shafts.

Results
The KRTAP family was identified as being unique to mammals, and near-complete KRTAP gene repertoires for eight mammalian genomes were characterized in this study. An expanded KRTAP gene repertoire was found in rodents. Surprisingly, humans have a similar number of genes as other primates despite the relative hairlessness of humans. We identified several new subfamilies not previously reported in the high/ultrahigh cysteine KRTAP genes. Genes in many subfamilies of the high/ultrahigh cysteine KRTAP genes have evolved by concerted evolution with frequent gene conversion events, yielding a higher GC base content for these gene sequences. In contrast, the high glycine-tyrosine KRTAP genes have evolved more dynamically, with fewer gene conversion events and thus have a lower GC base content, possibly due to positive selection.

Conclusion
Most of the subfamilies emerged early in the evolution of mammals, thus we propose that the mammalian ancestor should have a diverse KRTAP gene repertoire. We propose that hair content characteristics have evolved and diverged rapidly among mammals because of rapid divergent evolution of KRTAPs between species. In contrast, subfamilies of KRTAP genes have been homogenized within each species due to concerted evolution.
Stable high volumetric production of glycosylated human recombinant IFNalpha2b in HEK293 cells
Authors: Loignon Martin , Perret Sylvie , Kelly John , Boulais Denise , Cass Brian , Bisson Louis , Afkhamizarreh Fatemeh , Durocher Yves 
Published: August 2008

Abstract

Background
Mammalian cells are becoming the prevailing expression system for the production of recombinant proteins because of their capacity for proper protein folding, assembly, and post-translational modifications. These systems currently allow high volumetric production of monoclonal recombinant antibodies in the range of grams per litre. However their use for large-scale expression of cytokines typically results in much lower volumetric productivity.

Results
We have engineered a HEK293 cell clone for high level production of human recombinant glycosylated IFNα2b and developed a rapid and efficient method for its purification. This clone steadily produces more than 200 mg (up to 333 mg) of human recombinant IFNα2b per liter of serum-free culture, which can be purified by a single-step cation-exchange chromatography following media acidification and clarification. This rapid procedure yields 98% pure IFNα2b with a recovery greater than 70%. Purified IFNα2b migrates on SDS-PAGE as two species, a major 21 kDa band and a minor 19 kDa band. N-terminal sequences of both forms are identical and correspond to the expected mature protein. Purified IFNα2b elutes at neutral pH as a single peak with an apparent molecular weight of 44,000 Da as determined by size-exclusion chromatography. The presence of intramolecular and absence of intermolecular disulfide bridges is evidenced by the fact that non-reduced IFNα2b has a greater electrophoretic mobility than the reduced form. Treatment of purified IFNα2b with neuraminidase followed by O-glycosidase both increases electrophoretic mobility, indicating the presence of sialylated O-linked glycan. A detailed analysis of glycosylation by mass spectroscopy identifies disialylated and monosialylated forms as the major constituents of purified IFNα2b. Electron transfer dissociation (ETD) shows that the glycans are linked to the expected threonine at position 106. Other minor glycosylated forms and non-sialylated species are also detected, similar to IFNα2b produced naturally by lymphocytes. Further, the HEK293-produced IFNα2b is biologically active as shown with reporter gene and antiviral assays.

Conclusion
These results show that the HEK293 cell line is an efficient and valuable host for the production of biologically active and glycosylated human IFNα2b.
Serum lipid responses to psyllium fiber: differences between pre- and post-menopausal, hypercholesterolemic women
Authors: Ganji Vijay , Kuo Jennifer 
Published: August 2008

Abstract
Background
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women and men. Psyllium, a soluble fiber has been known to reduce serum lipids. In this pilot study, we evaluated whether menopausal status would affect the serum lipid responses to psyllium fiber in women.

Methods
Eleven post-menopausal and eight pre-menopausal women with serum total cholesterol >200 mg/dL were included in the study. Subjects consumed their habitual diet and 15 g psyllium/d for 6 weeks. Psyllium was incorporated into cookies. Each cookie contained ≈5 g of psyllium fiber. Subjects ate one cookie in each meal.

Results
With psyllium fiber, total cholesterol concentration was significantly lower (≈5.2%, P < 0.05) in post-menopausal women but not in pre-menopausal women (≈1.3%). Also, there was a significant decrease in HDL-cholesterol in post-menopausal women (≈10.2%, P < 0.05). There were no significant changes observed in concentrations of LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, apolipoprotein A1, and apolipoprotein B in both pre- and post-menopausal women with psyllium.

Conclusion
In this pilot study, post- and pre-menopausal, hypercholesterolemic women responded differently to psyllium fiber supplementation. Post-menopausal women would benefit from addition of psyllium to their diets in reducing the risk for heart diseases. The results of this study should be used with caution because the study was based on a small sample size.
Primary glioblastoma in the pineal region: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Moon Kyung-Sub , Jung Shin , Jung Tae-Young , Kim In-Young , Lee Min-Cheol , Lee Kyung-Hwa 
Published: August 2008

Abstract

Introduction
Glioblastoma in the pineal region is extremely rare with only a few cases reported in the literature.

Case presentation
A 68-year-old man presented with a sudden deterioration manifesting as a headache, vomiting and gait disturbance. A magnetic resonance imaging study revealed a heterogeneously ring-enhanced mass in the pineal region. The mass was subtotally removed through the occipital transtentorial approach, and diagnosed as a glioblastoma.

Conclusion
We discuss the clinical course, radiological findings and treatment strategies of pineal glioblastoma with a review of the relevant literature.