bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Microphysical and Thermodynamic Structure and Evolution of the Trailing Stratiform Regions of Mesoscale Convective Systems during BAMEX. Part II: Column Model Simulations
Authors: Grim Joseph A. , McFarquhar Greg M. , Rauber Robert M. , Smith Andrea M. , Jewett Brian F. 
Published: September 2008

Abstract
This study employed a nondynamic microphysical column model to evaluate the degree to which the microphysical processes of sublimation, melting, and evaporation alone can explain the evolution of the relative humidity (RH) and latent cooling profiles within the trailing stratiform region of mesoscale convective systems observed during the Bow Echo and Mesoscale Convective Vortex Experiment (BAMEX). Simulations revealed that observations of a sharp change in the profile of RH, from saturated air with respect to ice above the melting layer to subsaturated air with respect to water below, developed in response to the rapid increase in hydrometeor fall speeds from 1–2 m s−1 for ice to 2–11 m s−1 for rain. However, at certain times and locations, such as the first spiral descent on 29 June 2003 within the notch of lower reflectivity, the air may remain subsaturated for temperatures (T) &lt; 0°C. Sufficiently strong downdrafts above the melting level, such as the 1–3 m s−1 downdrafts observed in the notch of lower reflectivity on 29 June, could enable this state of sustained subsaturation. Sensitivity tests, where the hydrometeor size distributions and upstream RH profiles were varied within the range of BAMEX observations, revealed that the sharp contrast in the RH field across the melting layer always developed. The simulations also revealed that latent cooling from sublimation and melting resulted in the strongest cooling at altitudes within and above the melting layer for locations where hydrometeors did not reach the ground, such as within the rear anvil region, and where sustained subsaturated air is present for T &lt; 0°C, such as is observed within downdrafts. Within the enhanced stratiform rain region, the air is typically at or near saturation for T &lt; 0°C, whereas it is typically subsaturated for T &gt; 0°C; thus, evaporation and melting result in the primary cooling in this region. The implications of these results for the descent of the rear inflow jet across the trailing stratiform region are discussed.
The Quasi-Market Revolution in the Head
Authors: Carey Malcolm 
Published: September 2008

• Summary: The article explores the use of ideology by a group of care managers in the United Kingdom ( n = 44) in their work environments. It draws upon ethnomethodological research which investigated the motivations of qualified employees for entering and remaining within state social work. As well as exploring the impact and uses of ideology, the article also questions the disparagement of universalism in the postmodern inspired critique of welfare. This is sustained by highlighting the broad and universal impact of neoliberalism in relation to the care management labour process. • Findings: Care managers utilize ideology throughout their practice, although this is predominantly inspired by external factors, notably legislation and policy. Despite this, there is evidence of some application of professional, and/or critical ideologies, which can offer respite from, and act as a form of resistance against neoliberal ideology within the care management labour process. Nevertheless, in practice, such resistance tends to be dispersed, sporadic and often individualistic. • Applications : It is proposed that the greater use of `emancipatory' ideology in the education and practice of care managers may help in resisting further deskilling and disenfranchisement. Also, the work of Gramsci and Foucault offers a potential framework to contextualize forms of anti-market resistance.
Quality assessment of phase I dose-finding cancer trials: proposal of a checklist
Authors: Zohar Sarah , Qing Lian  , Levy Vincent , Cheung Ken , Ivanova Anastasia , Chevret Sylvie 
Published: September 2008

Background Qualitative checklists for phase III trials have been proposed, to improve the reporting of such trials and to assess the validity of their results. Purpose Our objective was to develop such a scale for phase I cancer trials. Methods From a review of existing guidelines and checklists for phase III clinical trials, a staff team was responsible for the first selection of items and the construction of the questionnaire. The proposed quality assessment measures were rated by the survey respondents comprised of phase I research clinicians and statisticians on a 4-point Likert scale. Selected items from the quantitative analysis of the questionnaires were reviewed by an expert team who was responsible for providing the final items list. This was then applied to 103 recently published cancer phase I trials. Results Of the 48 initial items proposed by the staff team, 17 were selected from the quantitative analysis of the 99 participants' ratings. After qualitative analysis by the expert team, a 15-item checklist was derived, with 5 items related to trial objective, 5 to design, and 5 to analysis. The application to 103 recent journal articles on phase I cancer trials evaluating cytotoxic drugs showed on average the report of 10 items (range: 6—13) with 4 items reported in more than 95% of papers, while 2 were poorly reported. Limitations The response rate of participants was 20.7%. Conclusions A quality assessment checklist was developed for improved critical appraisal of the reporting of cytotoxic, dose-finding phase I oncology trials. This may be a first step toward a minimum standard of quality measures for all phase I clinical trial reports. Clinical Trials 2008; 5: 478—485. http://ctj.sagepub.com
Clinical trials in stem cell transplantation: guidelines for scientific and ethical review
Authors: Lo Bernard , Kriegstein Arnold , Grady Deborah 
Published: September 2008

Background Transplantation of cells derived through the manipulation of pluripotent stem cells may involve great uncertainty and the possibility of serious risks. Purpose To develop guidelines for the ethical conduct of clinical trials using such stem cells. Methods Review of literature on clinical trials ethics and clinical applications of stem cells; critical deliberation on potential guidelines. Results Such transplantation should be allowed in clinical practice only after clinical trials demonstrate efficacy and safety. These clinical trials should follow ethical principles that guide all clinical research. Additional requirements to strengthen trial design, coordinate scientific and ethics review, verify that participants understand key features of the trial, and ensure publication of findings are also warranted because of the highly innovative nature of the intervention, limited experience in humans, and the high hopes of patients who have no alternative effective treatments. Limitations These recommendations will need to be modified in light of actual experience with stem cell clinical trials. Conclusions These recommendations will help guarantee that the efficacy and safety of innovative stem cell interventions will be rigorously established, while also protecting study participants. Clinical Trials 2008; 5: 517—522. http:// ctj.sagepub.com
Single-agent lenalidomide induces complete remission of acute myeloid leukemia in patients with isolated trisomy 13
Authors: Fehniger Todd A. , Byrd John C. , Marcucci Guido , Abboud Camille N. , Kefauver Cheryl , Payton Jacqueline E. , Vij Ravi , Blum William 
Published: September 2008

Abstract
Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) frequently fail chemotherapy due to refractory disease, relapse, or toxicity. Among older AML patients (age > 60 years), there are few long-term survivors. Lenalidomide is a candidate for study in AML based on its clinical activity in a related disorder, myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), with the 5q− chromosomal abnormality. We report induction of sustained morphologic and cytogenetic complete remission in 2 older AML patients treated with high-dose, single-agent lenalidomide; each patient had trisomy 13 as the sole cytogenetic abnormality. We show for the first time that lenalidomide has clinical activity in this poor-risk cytogenetic subset of AML. The clinical trials described in this paper have been registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov under identifiers NCT00466895 and NCT00546897.
Depletion of autoreactive immunologic memory followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with refractory SLE induces long-term remission through de novo generation of a juvenile and tolerant immune system
Authors: Alexander Tobias , Thiel Andreas , Rosen Oliver , Massenkeil Gero , Sattler Arne , Kohler Siegfried , Mei Henrik , Radtke Hartmut , Gromnica-Ihle Erika , Burmester Gerd-Rüdiger , Arnold Renate , Radbruch Andreas , Hiepe Falk 
Published: September 2008

AbstractClinical trials have indicated that immunoablation followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (ASCT) has the potential to induce clinical remission in patients with refractory systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but the mechanisms have remained unclear. We now report the results of a single-center prospective study of long-term immune reconstitution after ASCT in 7 patients with SLE. The clinical remissions observed in these patients are accompanied by the depletion of autoreactive immunologic memory, reflected by the disappearance of pathogenic anti–double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) antibodies and protective antibodies in serum and a fundamental resetting of the adaptive immune system. The latter comprises recurrence of CD31+CD45RA+CD4+ T cells (recent thymic emigrants) with a doubling in absolute numbers compared with age-matched healthy controls at the 3-year follow-up (P = .016), the regeneration of thymic-derived FoxP3+ regulatory T cells, and normalization of peripheral T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire usage. Likewise, responders exhibited normalization of the previously disturbed B-cell homeostasis with numeric recovery of the naive B-cell compartment within 1 year after ASCT. These data are the first to demonstrate that both depletion of the autoreactive immunologic memory and a profound resetting of the adaptive immune system are required to reestablish self-tolerance in SLE. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT00742300.
COPD-related morbidity and mortality after smoking cessation: status of the evidence
Authors: Godtfredsen N. S. , Lam T. H. , Hansel T. T. , Leon M. E. , Gray N. , Dresler C. , Burns D. M. , Prescott E. , Vestbo J. 
Published: September 2008

The evidence base for the benefit of quitting smoking as regards morbidity and mortality outcomes in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is limited.The present article is a review of the existing literature. A systematic literature search in medical databases was performed until March 2006, and subsequently until September 1, 2007. The outcomes examined were COPD-related morbidity and mortality (including all-cause mortality) in COPD patients in connection with smoking cessation.A total of 21 and 27 published articles on morbidity and mortality, respectively, were identified and reviewed. For both outcomes, only a few of the studies included patients with severe COPD. Most of the studies reported a beneficial effect of smoking cessation compared with continued smoking, whereas a few found no improvement. Methodological problems, including small study sizes, poor data quality, possibility of reverse causality and incomplete ascertainment of cause of death, limit interpretation of some of the studies.The evidence as a whole supports the conclusion that, even in severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, smoking cessation slows the accelerated rate of lung function decline and improves survival compared with continued smoking.
Epidermal growth factor receptor-mediated innate immune responses and their roles in airway diseases
Authors: Burgel P-R. , Nadel J. A. 
Published: September 2008

Inhaled air is contaminated with pathogens and particulates that may deposit in the airways and damage the host. In response to these invaders, the airway epithelium has developed innate immune responses that provide a defence against the invaders and protect the airway structure and function. Thus, the epithelium of conducting airways becomes the “battleground” between the invaders and the host.Recent evidence suggests that airway epithelial surface signalling through the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a convergent pathway producing innate immune responses to a variety of infectious and noninfectious noxious stimuli. In the present review, the EGFR signalling pathways leading to airway mucin production, neutrophil recruitment (viainterleukin-8 production) and airway epithelial repair were examined.The importance of these findings in human airway diseases was also investigated. The current authors suggest that the exaggerated innate immune responses found in chronic inflammatory airway diseases (e.g.chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis and severe asthma) contribute to the pathogenesis or the aggravation of these diseases. Potential therapies include inhibition of the various elements of the described epidermal growth factor receptor cascade. In considering each therapeutic intervention, the potential benefits must be considered in relation to potential deleterious effects.
Immunoaffinity purification and characterization of mitochondrial membrane-bound D-3-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase from Jaculus orientalis
Authors: Mountassif Driss , Andreoletti Pierre , El Kebbaj Zakaria , Moutaouakkil Adnane , Cherkaoui-Malki Mustapha , Latruffe Norbert , El Kebbaj M'hammed Saïd 
Published: September 2008

Abstract

Background
The interconversion of two important energy metabolites, 3-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate (the major ketone bodies), is catalyzed by D-3-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (BDH1: EC 1.1.1.30), a NAD+-dependent enzyme. The eukaryotic enzyme is bound to the mitochondrial inner membrane and harbors a unique lecithin-dependent activity. Here, we report an advanced purification method of the mammalian BDH applied to the liver enzyme from jerboa (Jaculus orientalis), a hibernating rodent adapted to extreme diet and environmental conditions.

Results
Purifying BDH from jerboa liver overcomes its low specific activity in mitochondria for further biochemical characterization of the enzyme. This new procedure is based on the use of polyclonal antibodies raised against BDH from bacterial Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This study improves the procedure for purification of both soluble microbial and mammalian membrane-bound BDH. Even though the Jaculus orientalis genome has not yet been sequenced, for the first time a D-3-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase cDNA from jerboa was cloned and sequenced.

Conclusion
This study applies immunoaffinity chromatography to purify BDH, the membrane-bound and lipid-dependent enzyme, as a 31 kDa single polypeptide chain. In addition, bacterial BDH isolation was achieved in a two-step purification procedure, improving the knowledge of an enzyme involved in the lipid metabolism of a unique hibernating mammal. Sequence alignment revealed conserved putative amino acids for possible NAD+ interaction.
Transferability and polymorphism of barley EST-SSR markers used for phylogenetic analysis in Hordeum chilense
Authors: Castillo Almudena , Budak Hikmet , Varshney Rajeev K , Dorado Gabriel , Graner Andreas , Hernandez Pilar 
Published: September 2008

Abstract

Background

Hordeum chilense, a native South American diploid wild barley, is a potential source of useful genes for cereal breeding. The use of this wild species to increase genetic variation in cereals will be greatly facilitated by marker-assisted selection. Different economically feasible approaches have been undertaken for this wild species with limited direct agricultural use in a search for suitable and cost-effective markers. The availability of Expressed Sequence Tags (EST) derived microsatellites or simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers, commonly called as EST-SSRs, for barley (Hordeum vulgare) represents a promising source to increase the number of genetic markers available for the H. chilense genome.

Results
All of the 82 barley EST-derived SSR primer pairs tested for transferability to H. chilense amplified products of correct size from this species. Of these 82 barley EST-SSRs, 21 (26%) showed polymorphism among H. chilense lines. Identified polymorphic markers were used to test the transferability and polymorphism in other Poaceae family species with the aim of establishing H. chilense phylogenetic relationships. Triticum aestivum-H. chilense addition lines allowed us to determine the chromosomal localizations of EST-SSR markers and confirm conservation of the linkage group.

Conclusion
From the present study a set of 21 polymorphic EST-SSR markers have been identified to be useful for diversity analysis of H. chilense, related wild barleys like H. murinum, and for wheat marker-assisted introgression breeding. Across-genera transferability of the barley EST-SSR markers has allowed phylogenetic inference within the Triticeae complex.
Cloning, characterisation and comparative analysis of a starch synthase IV gene in wheat: functional and evolutionary implications
Authors: Leterrier Marina , Holappa Lynn D , Broglie Karen E , Beckles Diane M 
Published: September 2008

Abstract

Background
Starch is of great importance to humans as a food and biomaterial, and the amount and structure of starch made in plants is determined in part by starch synthase (SS) activity. Five SS isoforms, SSI, II, III, IV and Granule Bound SSI, have been identified, each with a unique catalytic role in starch synthesis. The basic mode of action of SSs is known; however our knowledge of several aspects of SS enzymology at the structural and mechanistic level is incomplete. To gain a better understanding of the differences in SS sequences that underscore their specificity, the previously uncharacterised SSIVb from wheat was cloned and extensive bioinformatics analyses of this and other SSs sequences were done.

Results
The wheat SSIV cDNA is most similar to rice SSIVb with which it shows synteny and shares a similar exon-intron arrangement. The wheat SSIVb gene was preferentially expressed in leaf and was not regulated by a circadian clock. Phylogenetic analysis showed that in plants, SSIV is closely related to SSIII, while SSI, SSII and Granule Bound SSI clustered together and distinctions between the two groups can be made at the genetic level and included chromosomal location and intron conservation. Further, identified differences at the amino acid level in their glycosyltransferase domains, predicted secondary structures, global conformations and conserved residues might be indicative of intragroup functional associations.

Conclusion
Based on bioinformatics analysis of the catalytic region of 36 SSs and 3 glycogen synthases (GSs), it is suggested that the valine residue in the highly conserved K-X-G-G-L motif in SSIII and SSIV may be a determining feature of primer specificity of these SSs as compared to GBSSI, SSI and SSII. In GBSSI, the Ile485 residue may partially explain that enzyme's unique catalytic features. The flexible 380s Loop in the starch catalytic domain may be important in defining the specificity of action for each different SS and the G-X-G in motif VI could define SSIV and SSIII action particularly.
Setting up a Paediatric Rapid Access Outpatient Unit: Views of general practice teams
Authors: Williams Lisa , Fryer Jane , Andrew Rachel , Powell Colin , Pink Jim , Elwyn Glyn 
Published: September 2008

Abstract

Background
Rapid Access Outpatient Units (RAOUs) have been suggested as an alternative to hospital inpatient units for the management of some acutely unwell children. These units can provide ambulatory care, delivered close to home, and may prevent unnecessary hospital admission. There are no qualitative data on the views of primary care practitioners regarding these types of facilities. The aim of the study was to explore the opinions of primary care practitioners regarding a newly established RAOU.

Methods
The RAOU was established locally at a district general hospital when inpatient beds were closed and moved to an inpatient centre, based six miles away at the tertiary teaching hospital.
Qualitative, practice based group interviews with primary care practitioners (general practitioners (GPs), nurse practitioners and practice nurses) on their experiences of the RAOU. The data collection consisted of three practice based interviews with 14 participants. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic content analysis was used to evaluate the data.

Results
There was positive feedback regarding ease of telephone access for referral, location, and the value of a service staffed by senior doctors where children could be observed, investigated and discharged quickly. There was confusion regarding the referral criteria for the assessment unit and where to send certain children. A majority of the practitioners felt the utility of the RAOU was restricted by its opening hours. Most participants felt they lacked sufficient information regarding the remit and facilities of the unit and this led to some uneasiness regarding safety and long term sustainability.

Conclusion
Practitioners considered that the RAOU offered a rapid senior opinion, flexible short term observation, quick access to investigations and was more convenient for patients. There were concerns regarding opening hours, safety of patients and lack of information about the unit's facilities. There was confusion about which children should be sent to the unit. This study raises questions regarding policy in regard to the organisation of paediatric services. It highlights that when establishing alternative services to local inpatient units, continual communication and engagement of primary care is essential if the units are to function effectively.
The effect of menopause and hysterectomy on systemic vascular endothelial growth factor in women undergoing surgery for breast cancer
Authors: Lowery Aoife J , Sweeney Karl J , Molloy Alan P , Hennessy Emer , Curran Catherine , Kerin Michael J 
Published: September 2008

Abstract

Background
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a potent angiogenic cytokine produced physiologically by the uterus. Pathological secretion by tumours promotes growth and metastasis. High circulating VEGF levels potentially have a deleterious effect on breast cancer by promoting disease progression.
The aims of this study were to investigate circulating VEGF levels in breast cancer patients and assess the effect of menopause or hysterectomy on systemic VEGF.

Methods
Patients undergoing primary surgery for breast cancer and controls matched for age, menopausal and hysterectomy status were prospectively recruited. Serum VEGF, FSH, LH, estrogen, progesterone and platelet levels were measured. Serum VEGF was corrected for platelet load (sVEGFp) to provide a biologically relevant measurement of circulating VEGF. SVEGFp levels were analyzed with respect to tumor characteristics, menopausal status and hysterectomy status.

Results
Two hundred women were included in the study; 89 breast cancer patients and 111 controls. SVEGFp levels were significantly higher in breast cancer patients compared to controls (p = 0.0001), but were not associated with clinico-pathological tumor characteristics. Systemic VEGF levels reduced significantly in the breast cancer patients following tumor excision (p = 0.018). The highest systemic VEGF levels were observed in postmenopausal breast cancer patients. Postmenopausal women who had had a previous hysterectomy had significantly higher VEGF levels than those with an intact postmenopausal uterus (p = 0.001).

Conclusion
This study identifies an intact postmenopausal uterus as a potential means of reducing circulating levels of VEGF which could confer a protective effect against breast cancer metastatic potential.