bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Asymmetry of the Indian Ocean Dipole. Part II: Model Diagnosis*
Authors: Hong Chi-Cherng , Li Tim , Luo Jing-Jia 
Published: January 2008

Abstract
In this second part of a two-part paper, the mechanism for the amplitude asymmetry of SST anomalies (SSTA) between positive and negative Indian Ocean dipole (IOD) events is investigated through the diagnosis of coupled model simulations. Same as the observed in Part I, a significant negative skewness appears in the IOD east pole (IODE) in September–November (SON), whereas there is no significant skewness in the IOD west pole (IODW). A sensitivity experiment shows that the negative skewness in IODE appears even in the case when the ENSO is absent.
The diagnosis of the model mixed layer heat budget reveals that the negative skewness is primarily induced by the nonlinear ocean temperature advection and the asymmetry of the cloud–radiation–SST feedback, consistent with the observation (Part I). However, the simulated latent heat flux anomaly is greatly underestimated in IODE during the IOD developing stage [June–September (JJAS)]. As a result, the net surface heat flux acts as strong thermal damping. The underestimation of the latent heat flux anomaly in the IODE is probably caused by the westward shift of along-coast wind anomalies off Sumatra.
Observations and Numerical Simulation of Upper Boundary Layer Rapid Drying and Moistening Events during the International H2O Project (IHOP_2002)
Authors: Tanamachi Robin L. , Feltz Wayne F. , Xue Ming 
Published: January 2008

Abstract
On the morning of 12 June 2002, a series of upper boundary layer (UBL) rapid drying and moistening events (RDEs and RMEs, respectively) occurred at the “Homestead” site of the International H2O Project (IHOP_2002). Over a period of 10 h, atmospheric water vapor in the UBL decreased or increased within a matter of minutes four separate times. High-temporal-resolution data of the RDEs and RMEs collected by numerous instruments deployed for this intensive observation period are presented. The results of an Advanced Regional Prediction System (ARPS) simulation of the weather conditions around the time period reproduced one of the two RDE–RME pairs with reasonably accurate amplitude and timing. Both the observational data and ARPS numerical model output indicate that the second RDE–RME pair resulted from the interaction between a dry air mass descending from the Rocky Mountains and a cold pool–internal undular bore couplet propagating over the Homestead site from a mesoscale convective complex to the north. The RDEs and RMEs, which were rarely observed during IHOP_2002, are believed to be an indirect indicator of such bores.
Sasaki’s Pivotal Contribution: Calculus of Variations Applied to Weather Map Analysis
Authors: Lewis John , Lakshmivarahan S. 
Published: January 2008

Abstract
Yoshikazu Sasaki developed a variational method of data assimilation, a cornerstone of modern-day analysis and prediction in meteorology. Fundamentally, he formulated data assimilation as a constrained minimization problem with equality constraints. The generation of this idea is tracked by analyzing his education and research at the University of Tokyo in the immediate post–World War II (WWII) period. Despite austere circumstances—including limited financial support for education, poor living conditions, and a lack of educational resources—Sasaki was highly motivated and overcame these obstacles on his path to developing this innovative method of weather map analysis. The stages of his intellectual development are followed where information comes from access to his early publications, oral histories, and letters of reminiscence.
It has been argued that Sasaki’s unique contribution to meteorological data assimilation stems from his deterministic view of the problem—a view founded on the principles of variational mechanics. Sasaki’s approach to the problem is compared and contrasted with the stochastic view that was pioneered by Arnt Eliassen. Both of these optimal approaches are viewed in the context of the pragmatic–operational objective analysis schemes that were developed in the 1950s–1960s. Finally, current-day methods [e.g., three- and four-dimensional variational data assimilation (3DVAR and 4DVAR)] are linked to the optimal methods of Eliassen and Sasaki.
Thermal dependency of RAG1 self-association properties
Authors: De Pallabi , Zhao Shuying , Gwyn Lori M , Godderz LeAnn J , Peak Mandy M , Rodgers Karla K 
Published: January 2008

Abstract

Background
Functional immunoglobulin and T cell receptor genes are produced in developing lymphocytes by V(D)J recombination. The initial site-specific DNA cleavage steps in this process are catalyzed by the V(D)J recombinase, consisting of RAG1 and RAG2, which is directed to appropriate DNA cleavage sites by recognition of the conserved recombination signal sequence (RSS). RAG1 contains both the active site and the RSS binding domains, although RAG2 is also required for DNA cleavage activity. An understanding of the physicochemical properties of the RAG proteins, their association, and their interaction with the RSS is not yet well developed.

Results
Here, we further our investigations into the self-association properties of RAG1 by demonstrating that despite the presence of multiple RAG1 oligomers, only the dimeric form maintains the ability to interact with RAG2 and the RSS. However, facile aggregation of the dimeric form at physiological temperature may render this protein inactive in the absence of RAG2. Upon addition of RAG2 at 37°C, the preferentially stabilized V(D)J recombinase:RSS complex contains a single dimer of RAG1.

Conclusion
Together these results confirm that the functional form of RAG1 in V(D)J recombination is in the dimeric state, and that its stability under physiological conditions likely requires complex formation with RAG2. Additionally, in future structural and functional studies of RAG1, it will be important to take into account the temperature-dependent self-association properties of RAG1 described in this study.
Aortic valve replacement in a young patient with essential thrombocytosis
Authors: Ahmed Kashif , Vohra Hunaid A , Milne Alison , Langley Stephen M 
Published: January 2008

Abstract
Essential Thrombocythcythaemia (ET) is an uncommon type of myeloproliferative disorder, characterised by both thrombotic and haemorrhagic diathesis. No clear guidelines exist for the pre- and post-operative management of patients undergoing cardiac surgery in the haematological and surgical literature. This condition has profound implications in patients undergoing cardiac surgery with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass, where heparin is used for anti-coagulation. This dilemma is further compounded in the setting of a young patient undergoing aortic valve replacement (AVR), where insertion of a mechanical prosthesis would be the procedure of choice. This would require life-long anticoagulation with warfarin which can predispose these patients to catastrophic bleeding. Using a tissue valve will subject the patient to multiple redo operations in the patient's lifetime. We report a young patient with ET requiring AVR and discuss the dilemmas surrounding the choice of prosthesis in this patient.
Meta-Analysis of Phase II Cooperative Group Trials in Metastatic Stage IV Melanoma to Determine Progression-Free and Overall Survival Benchmarks for Future Phase II Trials
Authors: Korn Edward L. , Liu Ping-Yu , Lee Sandra J. , Chapman Judith-Anne W. , Niedzwiecki Donna , Suman Vera J. , Moon James , Sondak Vernon K. , Atkins Michael B. , Eisenhauer Elizabeth A. , Parulekar Wendy , Markovic Svetomir N. , Saxman Scott , Kirkwood John M. 
Published: January 2008

Purpose Objective tumor response rates observed in phase II trials for metastatic melanoma have historically not provided a reliable indicator of meaningful survival benefits. To facilitate using overall survival (OS) or progression-free survival (PFS) as an endpoint for future phase II trials, we evaluated historical data from cooperative group phase II trials to attempt to develop benchmarks for OS and PFS as reference points for future phase II trials. Patients and Methods Individual-level and trial-level data were obtained for patients enrolled onto 42 phase II trials (70 trial arms) that completed accrual in the years 1975 through 2005 and conducted by Southwest Oncology Group, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group, Cancer and Leukemia Group B, North Central Cancer Treatment Group, and the Clinical Trials Group of the National Cancer Institute of Canada. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify prognostic variables, and between-trial(-arm) variability in 1-year OS rates and 6-month PFS rates were examined. Results Statistically significant individual-level and trial-level prognostic factors found in a multivariate survival analysis for OS were performance status, presence of visceral disease, sex, and whether the trial excluded patients with brain metastases. Performance status, sex, and age were statistically significant prognostic factors for PFS. Controlling for these prognostic variables essentially eliminated between-trial variability in 1-year OS rates but not in 6-month PFS rates. Conclusion Benchmarks are provided for 1-year OS or OS curves that make use of the distribution of prognostic factors of the patients in the phase II trial. A similar benchmark for 6-month PFS is provided, but its use is more problematic because of residual between-trial variation in this endpoint.
Outcomes and Cost of Outpatient or Inpatient Management of 712 Patients With Febrile Neutropenia
Authors: Elting Linda S. , Lu Charles , Escalante Carmelita P. , Giordano Sharon H. , Trent Jonathan C. , Cooksley Catherine , Avritscher Elenir B.C. , Shih Ya-Chen Tina , Ensor Joe , Bekele B. Nebiyou , Gralla Richard J. , Talcott James A. , Rolston Kenneth 
Published: January 2008

Purpose We retrospectively compared the outcomes and costs of outpatient and inpatient management of low-risk outpatients who presented to an emergency department with febrile neutropenia (FN). Patients and Methods A single episode of FN was randomly chosen from each of 712 consecutive, low-risk solid tumor outpatients who had been treated prospectively on a clinical pathway (1997-2003). Their medical records were reviewed retrospectively for overall success (resolution of all signs and symptoms of infection without modification of antibiotics, major medical complications, or intensive care unit admission) and nine secondary outcomes. Outcomes were assessed by physician investigators who were blinded to management strategy. Outcomes and costs (payer's perspective) in 529 low-risk outpatients were compared with 123 low-risk patients who were psychosocially ineligible for outpatient management (no access to caregiver, telephone, or transportation; residence > 30 minutes from treating center; poor compliance with previous outpatient therapy) using univariate statistical tests. Results Overall success was 80% among low-risk outpatients and 79% among low-risk inpatients. Response to initial antibiotics was 81% among outpatients and 80% among inpatients (P = .94); 21% of those initially treated as outpatients subsequently required hospitalization. All patients ultimately responded to antibiotics; there were no deaths. Serious complications were rare (1%) and equally frequent between the groups. The mean cost of therapy among inpatients was double that of outpatients ($15,231 v $7,772; P < .001). Conclusion Outpatient management of low-risk patients with FN is as safe and effective as inpatient management of low-risk patients and is significantly less costly.
Multicenter, Phase II Trial of Sunitinib in Previously Treated, Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Socinski Mark A. , Novello Silvia , Brahmer Julie R. , Rosell Rafael , Sanchez Jose M. , Belani Chandra P. , Govindan Ramaswamy , Atkins James N. , Gillenwater Heidi H. , Pallares Cinta , Tye Lesley , Selaru Paulina , Chao Richard C. , Scagliotti Giorgio V. 
Published: January 2008

Purpose Aberrant vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) signaling have been shown to play a role in non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) pathogenesis and are associated with decreased survival. We evaluated the clinical activity and tolerability of sunitinib malate (SU11248), an oral, multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor that blocks the activity of receptors for VEGF and PDGF, as well as related tyrosine kinases in patients with previously treated, advanced NSCLC. Patients and Methods Patients with stage IIIB or IV NSCLC for whom platinum-based chemotherapy had failed received 50 mg/d of sunitinib for 4 weeks followed by 2 weeks of no treatment in 6-week treatment cycles. The primary end point was objective response rate (ORR); secondary end points included progression-free survival, overall survival, and safety. Results Of the 63 patients treated with sunitinib, seven patients had confirmed partial responses, yielding an ORR of 11.1% (95% CI, 4.6% to 21.6%). An additional 18 patients (28.6%) experienced stable disease of at least 8 weeks in duration. Median progression-free survival was 12.0 weeks (95% CI, 10.0 to 16.1 weeks), and median overall survival was 23.4 weeks (95% CI, 17.0 to 28.3 weeks). Therapy was generally well tolerated. Conclusion Sunitinib has promising single-agent activity in patients with recurrent NSCLC, with an ORR similar to that of currently approved agents and an acceptable safety profile. Further evaluation in combination with other targeted agents and chemotherapy in patients with NSCLC is warranted.
Electrochemical Dissolution and Redeposition of Electropolymerized Polyindole Film
Authors: Kim Sang-kook , Kumamoto Takuya , Ishikawa Tsutomu , Seki Hiroko , Ozawa Tomoyuki , Hoshino Katsuyoshi 
Published: January 2008

Abstract
An electropolymerized polyindole film was solubilized into a dichloromethane solution by its electrochemical reduction, and the electrochemical reoxidation of the soluble species produced the film again on the electrode surface. These dissolution and redeposition behavior were investigated by using cyclic voltammetry, UV–vis, NMR, FT-IR, and MALDI-TOFMS measurements.
Cognitive behaviour therapy in patients with schizophrenia who are not prescribed antipsychotic medication: A case series
Authors: Christodoulides T. , Dudley R. , Brown S. , Turkington D. , Beck Aaron T. 
Published: January 2008

Objectives. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) as an adjunct to medication has been shown to improve symptom management in patients with schizophrenia. However, little is understood about the value of CBT for people who are not prescribed antipsychotic medication.Design. A post hoc case series design was used to examine the outcome data of three participants selected from a randomized controlled trial for CBT for schizophrenia. The participants were included if they had received CBT and were not prescribed antipsychotic medication during active treatment.Results. The three patients improved on outcome measures of psychopathology, depression, or negative symptoms, some to a clinically significant degree.Conclusions. CBT is a feasible treatment for people with schizophrenia who are not prescribed antipsychotic medication. It may be a valuable alternative to medication in treating symptoms of schizophrenia.
Serum Cystatin C in Estimating Glomerular Filtration Rate
Authors: Čabarkapa Velibor , Stošić Zoran , Đerić Mirjana , Vučurević-Ristić Ljiljana , Žeravica Radmila , Ilinčić Branislava 
Published: January 2008

Serum Cystatin C in Estimating Glomerular Filtration RateUsing serum cystatin C in estimating glomerular filtration rate (GFR) has in recent times been recommended. A number of simple formulas for calculating GFR have been derived specifically from serum cystatin C concentrations. The purpose of this study was to assess the significance of cystatin C and of the two most frequently applied of these formulas in estimating glomerular filtration rate compared to serum creatinine and its derived formulas for estimating glomerular filtration rate from creatinine concentrations. The study included 74 patients: 59 were in various stages of chronic renal insufficiency (divided into two subgroups: I with GFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73m2and II with GFR<60 mL/min/1.73m2) and 15 on hemodialysis. A control group of 30 healthy participants was also included in the study. Serum values of cystatin C ranged from: 0.86 ± 0.16 mg/L in subgroup I, and 1.77 ± 0.79 mg/L in subgroup II, to 6.9 ± 1.83 mg/L in patients on hemodialysis. The correlation between the two formulas derived from cystatin C and the clearance of creatinine, as well as the Cockcroft and Gault's formula, was significant, while one of the formulas derived from cystatin C did not show a significant correlation with MDRD. It was concluded that serum cystatin C is a significant marker in estimating glomerular filtration rate, especially in the advanced stages of chronic renal insufficiency.
SGLT2 Inhibitors, Functional Capacity, and Quality of Life in Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: Gao Michael , Bhatia Kirtipal , Kapoor Arjun , Badimon Juan , Pinney Sean P. , Mancini Donna M. , Santos-Gallego Carlos G. , Lala Anuradha 
Published: April 2024

ImportanceThe associations of sodium glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) with reduction in mortality and hospitalization rates in patients with heart failure (HF) are well established. However, their association with improving functional capacity and quality of life (QOL) has been variably studied and less reported.ObjectiveTo provide evidence on the extent to which SGLT2is are associated with improvement on objective measures of functional capacity and QOL in patients living with HF.Data SourcesThe MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were systematically searched for relevant articles on July 31, 2023.Study SelectionRandomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials reporting the effect of SGLT2i on functional outcomes of exercise capacity (peak oxygen consumption [peak VO2] or 6-minute walk distance [6MWD]) and/or QOL using validated questionnaires for patients with HF were included.Data Extraction and SynthesisData were extracted by 2 authors following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 guidelines, and a meta-analysis using the restricted maximum likelihood random-effects model was conducted.Main Outcomes and MeasuresOutcomes of interest included changes in peak VO2, 6MWD, and Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire-12 total symptom score (KCCQ-TSS), clinical summary score (KCCQ-CSS), and overall summary score (KCCQ-OSS).ResultsIn this meta-analysis of 17 studies, 23 523 patients (mean [range] age, 69 [60-75] years) were followed over a period ranging from 12 to 52 weeks. Four studies included peak VO2 as an outcome, 7 studies included 6MWD, and 10 studies reported KCCQ scores. Mean (SD) left ventricular ejection fraction was 43.5% (12.4%). Compared with controls, patients receiving SGLT2i treatment experienced significant increases in peak VO2 (mean difference [MD], 1.61 mL/kg/min; 95% CI, 0.59-2.63 mL/kg/min; P = .002) and 6MWD (MD, 13.09 m; 95% CI, 1.20-24.97 m; P = .03). SGLT2i use was associated with increased KCCQ-TSS (MD, 2.28 points; 95% CI, 1.74-2.81 points; P &amp;lt; .001), KCCQ-CSS (MD, 2.14 points; 95% CI, 1.53-2.74 points; P &amp;lt; .001), and KCCQ-OSS (MD, 1.90 points; 95% CI, 1.41-2.39 points; P &amp;lt; .001) scores. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression demonstrated almost all improvements were consistent across ejection fraction, sex, and the presence of diabetes.Conclusions and RelevanceThese findings suggest that in addition to known clinical associations with mortality and hospitalization outcomes, SGLT2i use is associated with improvement in outcomes of interest to patients’ everyday lives as measured by objective assessments of maximal exercise capacity and validated QOL questionnaires, regardless of sex or ejection fraction.
The effect of micro‐level and macro‐level signalling on learning with 360° videos
Authors: Beege Maik , Nebel Steve , Schneider Sascha , Rey Günter Daniel 
Published: April 2024

Abstract360° videos raised the attention of educators, as they can mediate complex environments in educational settings. However, learning irrelevant cognitive strains might be imposed because it is necessary to navigate through spherical material. These downsides could be compensated by using signalling techniques. In a two (macro‐level vs. no signalling) × two (micro‐level vs. no signalling) factorial between‐subjects design plus control group, 203 students watched a video about visual and behavioural characteristics of animals. Learning outcomes, cognitive load, disorientation, and presence were investigated. Results revealed that macro‐level signalling enhanced learning outcomes. Descriptively, the control group outperformed all experimental groups except the condition with macro‐level signalling regarding retention performance. According to an exploratory path model, extraneous load moderated the effects of signalling on learning outcomes. Results are discussed considering cognitive load and spatial presence induced by using 360° videos as learning material.
Lay Health Worker Interventions in Rheumatology: A Scoping Review
Authors: Creasman Megan W. , Hargrove Mackenzie B. , Domínguez Páez Yuliana , Demetres Michelle , Lieber Sarah B. , Kasturi Shanthini , Safford Monika M. , Navarro‐Millán Iris 
Published: April 2024

ObjectiveTo determine next steps for lay health worker (LHW) intervention research, specifically in patients with rheumatic musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs), there is a need to establish what strategies have been effective for chronic disease management thus far. The goal of this scoping review is to collate the literature of LHW interventions for adults with RMDs to inform next steps for LHW research.MethodsA comprehensive literature search was performed in the following databases from inception to September 2021: Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and The Cochrane Library. Studies retrieved were then screened for eligibility against predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria.ResultsTwenty‐two articles were eligible and included in this review. The most common RMDs studied, not mutually exclusive, were osteoarthritis (n = 13), rheumatoid arthritis (n = 9), and unspecified or other RMD (n = 14). Most studies had a homogenous patient population, enrolling White, non‐Hispanic, or Latina women over the age of 60 (n = 13). Eight studies observed statistically significant results in the intervention arm compared with the control. Only one of these studies exhibited sustained treatment effects past one year.ConclusionThere are not enough data to conclude if LHW interventions have a positive, null, or negative effect on patients with RMDs. Future LHW interventions should specify a priori hypotheses, be powered to detect statistical significance for primary outcomes, employ a theoretical framework, include an active control, describe training protocols for LHWs, and increase minority representation to establish the effectiveness of LHWs for patients with RMDs.