bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Characterization, and In Vitro Photodynamic Activity of Novel Amphiphilic Zinc(II) Phthalocyanines Bearing Oxyethylene-Rich Substituents
Authors: Liu Jian-Yong , Jiang Xiong-Jie , Fong Wing-Ping , Ng Dennis K. P.
Published: December 2007

Three novel zinc(II) phthalocyanines substituted with one or two 3,4,5-tris(3,6,9-trioxadecoxy)benzoxy group(s) have been prepared and spectroscopically characterized. These compounds are highly soluble and remain nonaggregated in N,N-dimethylformamide. Upon excitation, they exhibit a relatively weak fluorescence emission and high efficiency to generate singlet oxygen compared with the unsubstituted zinc(II) phthalocyanine. These amphiphilic photosensitizers formulated with Cremophor EL are highly photocytotoxic against HT29 human colon adenocarcinoma and HepG2 human hepatocarcinoma cells. The mono-α-substituted analogue 4 is particularly potent with IC50 values as low as 0.02 μM.
The higher photodynamic activity of this compound can be attributed to its lower aggregation tendency in the culture media as shown by absorption spectroscopy and higher cellular uptake as suggested by the stronger intracellular fluorescence, resulting in a higher efficiency to generate reactive oxygen species inside the cells.
Modeling of Moisture Diffusion in Carbon Braided Composites
Authors: Laurenzi S. , Albrizio T. , Marchetti M.
Published: December 2007

In this study, we develop a methodology based on finite element analysis to predict the weight gain of carbon braided composite materials exposed to moisture. The analysis was based on the analogy between thermal conduction and diffusion processes, which allowed for a commercial code for finite element analysis to be used. A detailed finite element model using a repetitive unit cell (RUC) was developed both for bundle and carbon braided composites. Conditioning tests were performed to estimate the diffusivity of both the resin and composite. When comparing numerical and experimental results, it was observed that the procedure introduces an average error of 20% and a maximum error of 31% if the RUC is assumed to be isotropic. On the other hand, the average error does not exceed 10% and the maximum error is less than 20% when the material is considered as orthotropic. The procedure is independent of the particular fiber architecture and can be extended to other composites.
Accurate Anisotropic Fast Marching for Diffusion‐Based Geodesic Tractography
Authors: Jbabdi S. , Bellec P. , Toro R. , Daunizeau J. , Pélégrini-Issac M. , Benali H.
Published: December 2007

Using geodesics for inferring white matter fibre tracts from diffusion‐weighted MR data is an attractive method for at least two reasons: (i) the method optimises a global criterion, and hence is less sensitive to local perturbations such as noise or partial volume effects, and (ii) the method is fast, allowing to infer on a large number of connexions in a reasonable computational time. Here, we propose an improved fast marching algorithm to infer on geodesic paths. Specifically, this procedure is designed to achieve accurate front propagation in an anisotropic elliptic medium, such as DTI data. We evaluate the numerical performance of this approach on simulated datasets, as well as its robustness to local perturbation induced by fiber crossing. On real data, we demonstrate the feasibility of extracting geodesics to connect an extended set of brain regions.
Approaches, Relevant Topics, and Internal Method for Uncertainty Evaluation in Predictions of Thermal-Hydraulic System Codes
Authors: Petruzzi Alessandro , D'Auria Francesco
Published: December 2007

The evaluation of uncertainty constitutes the necessary supplement of best-estimate calculations performed to understand accident scenarios in water-cooled nuclear reactors. The needs come from the imperfection of computational tools, on the one side, and the interest in using such a tool to get more precise evaluation of safety margins. The paper reviews the salient features of three independent approaches for estimating uncertainties associated with predictions of complex system codes. Namely, the propagations of code input error and calculation output error constitute the keywords for identifying the methods of current interest for industrial applications, while the adjoint sensitivity-analysis procedure and the global adjoint sensitivity-analysis procedure, extended to performing uncertainty evaluation in conjunction with concepts from data adjustment and assimilation, constitute the innovative approach. Throughout the developed methods, uncertainty bands can be derived (both upper and lower) for any desired quantity of the transient of interest. For one case, the uncertainty method is coupled with the thermal-hydraulic code to get the code with capability of internal assessment of uncertainty, whose features are discussed in more detail.
Peroxisome Proliferator‐Activated Receptors as Mediators of Phthalate‐Induced Effects in the Male and Female Reproductive Tract: Epidemiological and Experimental Evidence
Authors: Latini Giuseppe , Scoditti Egeria , Verrotti Alberto , De Felice Claudio , Massaro Marika
Published: December 2007

There is growing evidence that male as well as female reproductive function has been declining in human and wildlife populations over the last 40 years. Several factors such as lifestyle or environmental xenobiotics other than genetic factors may play a role in determining adverse effects on reproductive health. Among the environmental xenobiotics phthalates, a family of man‐made pollutants are suspected to interfere with the function of the endocrine system and therefore to be endocrine disruptors. The definition of endocrine disruption is today extended to broader endocrine regulations, and includes activation of metabolic sensors, such as the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs). Toxicological studies have shown that phthalates can activate a subset of PPARs.
Here, we analyze the epidemiological and experimental evidence linking phthalate exposure to both PPAR activation and adverse effects on male and female reproductive health.
Microstructures Formation by Fluorocarbon Barrel Plasma Etching
Authors: El amrani A. , Tadjine R. , Moussa F. Y.
Published: December 2007

The aim of our study is to generate microstructures in order to improve optical properties of monocrystalline
silicon. By mean of fluorocarbon plasma barrel texturing and under certain process conditions, silicon turned black.
As a result of silicon surface-plasma particles reactions, porous microstructures are formed, while a longer process time microspikes are developed. These microstructures are responsible of the high level of light trapping on almost the whole range of the usable portion of the solar spectrum. In the wavelength range of 400–1100 nm, the AM1.5G weighted reflection has been reduced to 6.20%. In addition to good trapping, this surface morphology leads to superior absorption, which is about 95% in the 600–1000 nm range and decreases to 36% at 1200 nm. This material is thus less transparent and absorbs near infrared light far more than the untreated silicon. Secondary ion mass spectrometry shows that elements from the ambient gas are deposited or superficially introduced into the silicon. In addition to surface texturing, these impurities are probably the reason of absorptance enhancement. Moreover, a pore formation mechanism is proposed.
The Role of Noninvasive Techniques in Stroke Therapy
Authors: Bernad Daniel Maxwell , Doyon Julien
Published: December 2007

Noninvasive techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) have provided insight into understanding how neural connections are altered in consequence to cerebrovascular injury. The first part of this review will briefly survey some of the methodological issues and limitations related to noninvasive poststroke motor recovery studies. The second section will investigate some of the different neural mechanisms that underlie neurorehabilitation in stroke patients. The third part will explore our current understanding of motor memory processing, describe the neural structures that subserve motor memory consolidation, and discuss the current literature related to memory reconsolidation in healthy adults. Lastly, this paper will suggest the potential therapeutic applications of integrating noninvasive tools with memory consolidation and reconsolidation theories to enhance motor recovery. The overall objective of this work is to demonstrate how noninvasive technologies have been utilized in the multidisciplinary field of clinical behavioral neuroscience and to highlight their potential to be employed as clinical tools to promote individualized motor recovery in stroke patients.
PPAR‐γ in the Cardiovascular System
Authors: Duan Sheng Zhong , Ivashchenko Christine Y. , Usher Michael G. , Mortensen Richard M.
Published: December 2007

Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPAR‐γ), an essential transcriptional mediator of adipogenesis, lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and glucose homeostasis, is increasingly recognized as a key player in inflammatory cells and in cardiovascular diseases (CVD) such as hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy, congestive heart failure, and atherosclerosis. PPAR‐γ agonists, the thiazolidinediones (TZDs), increase insulin sensitivity, lower blood glucose, decrease circulating free fatty acids and triglycerides, lower blood pressure, reduce inflammatory markers, and reduce atherosclerosis in insulin‐resistant patients and animal models. Human genetic studies on PPAR‐γ have revealed that functional changes in this nuclear receptor are associated with CVD. Recent controversial clinical studies raise the question of deleterious action of PPAR‐γ agonists on the cardiovascular system. These complex interactions of metabolic responsive factors and cardiovascular disease promise to be important areas of focus for the future.
Molecular Mechanisms of Resveratrol Action in Lung Cancer Cells Using Dual Protein and Microarray Analyses
Authors: Whyte Lorna , Huang Yuan-Yen , Torres Karen , Mehta Rajendra G.
Published: December 2007

Resveratrol, a natural phytoestrogen found in red wine and a variety of plants, is reported to have protective effects against lung cancer; however, there is little work directed toward the understanding of the mechanism of its action in this disease. In this study, we used a combination of experimental approaches to understand the biological activity and molecular mechanisms of resveratrol. Microarray gene expression profiling and high-throughput immunoblotting (PowerBlot) methodologies were employed to gain insights into the molecular mechanisms of resveratrol action in human lung cancer cells. In this report, we confirm the up-regulation of p53 and p21 and the induction of apoptosis by the activation of the caspases and the disruption of the mitochondrial membrane complex. We show the arrest of A549 cells in the G1 phase of cell cycle in the presence of resveratrol and also report alterations in both gene and protein expressions of cyclin A, chk1, CDC27, and Eg5. Furthermore, the results indicated that resveratrol action is mediated via the transforming growth factor-β pathway, particularly through the Smad proteins. Results showed the down-regulation of the Smad activators 2 and 4 and the up-regulation of the repressor Smad 7 as a result of resveratrol treatment. Resveratrol is a potent inhibitor of A549 lung cancer cell growth, and our results suggest that resveratrol may be a promising chemopreventive or chemotherapeutic agent for lung cancer. [Cancer Res 2007;67(24):12007–17]
Predicting Response to Radioimmunotherapy from the Tumor Microenvironment of Colorectal Carcinomas
Authors: El Emir Ethaar , Qureshi Uzma , Dearling Jason L.J. , Boxer Geoffrey M. , Clatworthy Innes , Folarin Amos A. , Robson Mathew P. , Nagl Sylvia , Konerding Moritz A. , Pedley R. Barbara
Published: December 2007

Solid tumors have a heterogeneous pathophysiology, which directly affects antibody-targeted therapies. Here, we consider the influence of selected tumor parameters on radioimmunotherapy, by comparing the gross biodistribution, microdistribution, and therapeutic efficacy of either radiolabeled or fluorescently labeled antibodies (A5B7 anti–carcinoembryonic antigen antibody and a nonspecific control) after i.v. injection in two contrasting human colorectal xenografts in MF1 nude mice. The LS174T is moderately/poorly differentiated, whereas SW1222 has a well-differentiated glandular structure. Biodistribution studies (1.8 MBq 131I-labeled A5B7, four mice per group) showed similar gross tumor uptake at 48 h in the two models (25.1% and 24.0% injected dose per gram, respectively). However, in therapy studies (six mice per group), LS174T required a 3-fold increase in dose (18 versus 6 MBq) to equal SW1222 growth inhibition (∼55 versus ∼60 days, respectively). To investigate the basis of this discrepancy, high-resolution multifluorescence microscopy was used to study antibody localization in relation to tumor parameters (5 min, 1 and 24 h, four mice per time point). Three-dimensional microvascular corrosion casting and transmission electron microscopy showed further structural differences between xenografts. Vascular supply, overall antigen distribution, and tumor structure varied greatly between models, and were principally responsible for major differences in antibody localization and subsequent therapeutic efficacy. The study shows that multiparameter, high-resolution imaging of both therapeutic and tumor microenvironment is required to comprehend complex antibody-tumor interactions, and to determine which tumor regions are being successfully treated. This will inform the design of optimized clinical trials of single and combined agents, and aid individual patient selection for antibody-targeted therapies. [Cancer Res 2007;67(24):11896–905]
Galectin-3 Cleavage: A Novel Surrogate Marker for Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity in Growing Breast Cancers
Authors: Nangia-Makker Pratima , Raz Tirza , Tait Larry , Hogan Victor , Fridman Rafael , Raz Avraham
Published: December 2007

Failed therapies directed against matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) in cancer patients may be attributed, in part, to lack of diagnostic tools to differentiate between pro-MMPs and active MMPs, which indicate whether a treatment is efficacious or not. Because galectin-3 is cleavable in vitro by MMPs, we have developed differential antibodies recognizing its cleaved and noncleaved forms and tested their clinical utilization as a surrogate diagnostic marker for the presence of active MMPs in growing breast cancers. Wild-type and cleavage-resistant galectin-3 were constructed and expressed in galectin-3–null human breast carcinoma cells (BT-549). Tumorigenic and angiogenic potential of the clones was studied by injections into nude mice. MMP-2, MMP-9, full-length, and cleaved galectin-3 were localized in the xenografts by immunohistochemical analysis of paraffin-embedded sections using specific antibodies. Activities of MMP-2/9 were corroborated by in situ zymography on frozen tissue sections. Galectin-3 cleavage was shown in vivo by differential antibody staining and colocalized with predicted active MMPs both in mouse xenografts and human breast cancer specimens. In situ zymography validated these results. In addition, BT-549 cells harboring noncleavable galectin-3 showed reduced tumor growth and angiogenesis compared with the wild-type. We conclude that galectin-3 cleavage is an active process during tumor progression and could be used as a simple, rapid, and reliable surrogate marker for the activities of MMPs in growing breast cancers. [Cancer Res 2007;67(24):11760–8]
Platelet-Derived Stromal Cell–Derived Factor-1 Regulates Adhesion and Promotes Differentiation of Human CD34
+
Cells to Endothelial Progenitor Cells
Authors: Stellos Konstantinos , Langer Harald , Daub Karin , Schoenberger Tanja , Gauss Alexandra , Geisler Tobias , Bigalke Boris , Mueller Iris , Schumm Michael , Schaefer Iris , Seizer Peter , Kraemer Bjoern F. , Siegel-Axel Dorothea , May Andreas E. , Lindemann Stephan , Gawaz Meinrad
Published: December 2007

Background—

Peripheral homing of progenitor cells in areas of diseased organs is critical for tissue regeneration. The chemokine stromal cell–derived factor-1 (SDF-1) regulates homing of CD34
+
stem cells. We evaluated the role of platelet-derived SDF-1 in adhesion and differentiation of human CD34
+
cells into endothelial progenitor cells.

Methods and Results—

Adherent platelets express substantial amounts of SDF-1 and recruit CD34
+
cells in vitro and in vivo. A monoclonal antibody to SDF-1 or to its counterreceptor, CXCR4, inhibits stem cell adhesion on adherent platelets under high arterial shear in vitro and after carotid ligation in mice, as determined by intravital fluorescence microscopy. Platelets that adhere to human arterial endothelial cells enhance the adhesion of CD34
+
cells on endothelium under flow conditions, a process that is inhibited by anti-SDF-1. During intestinal ischemia/reperfusion in mice, anti-SDF-1 and anti-CXCR4, but not isotype control antibodies, abolish the recruitment of CD34
+
cells in microcirculation. Moreover, platelet-derived SDF-1 binding to CXCR4 receptor promotes platelet-induced differentiation of CD34
+
cells into endothelial progenitor cells, as verified by colony-forming assays in vitro.

Conclusions—

These findings imply that platelet-derived SDF-1 regulates adhesion of stem cells in vitro and in vivo and promotes differentiation of CD34
+
cells to endothelial progenitor cells. Because tissue regeneration depends on recruitment of progenitor cells to peripheral vasculature and their subsequent differentiation, platelet-derived SDF-1 may contribute to vascular and myocardial regeneration.
Lactotripeptides Show No Effect on Human Blood Pressure
Authors: Engberink Mariëlle F. , Schouten Evert G. , Kok Frans J. , van Mierlo Linda A.J. , Brouwer Ingeborg A. , Geleijnse Johanna M.
Published: December 2007

Milk-derived peptides with ACE-inhibiting properties may have antihypertensive effects in humans. We conducted a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial to examine the blood pressure lowering potential of 2 ACE-inhibiting lactotripeptides, ie, Isoleucine-Proline-Proline and Valine-Proline-Proline. We included 135 Dutch subjects with elevated systolic blood pressure who were otherwise healthy and who received no current antihypertensive treatment. After a 2-week run-in period on placebo, subjects randomly received a daily dose of 200 mL dairy drink with 14 mg lactotripeptides obtained by concentrating fermented milk, enzymatic hydrolysis, or chemical synthesis, or placebo for 8 weeks, followed by a 2-week wash-out. The primary outcome was 8-week change in office systolic blood pressure. Secondary outcomes were change in diastolic blood pressure, home blood pressure, 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure, plasma ACE-activity, and plasma angiotensin II. Blood pressure at baseline was on average 142/84 mm Hg. Lactotripeptides did not significantly change systolic blood pressure (
P
=0.46) or diastolic blood pressure (
P
=0.31) compared with placebo. The mean difference (95%-CI) in systolic blood pressure response between treatment and placebo was 2.8 mm Hg (−2.6;8.2) for concentrated fermented milk lactotripeptides, −0.5 mm Hg (−6.0;5.0) for enzymatic lactotripeptides, and 1.6 mm Hg (−3.9;6.9) for synthetic lactotripeptides. Treatment neither had a significant effect on secondary outcome measures. In conclusion, the present study does not support the hypothesis of a blood pressure lowering effect of the lactotripeptides Isoleucine-Proline-Proline and Valine-Proline-Proline.
Relation of Dietary Salt and Aldosterone to Urinary Protein Excretion in Subjects With Resistant Hypertension
Authors: Pimenta Eduardo , Gaddam Krishna K. , Pratt-Ubunama Monique N. , Nishizaka Mari K. , Aban Inmaculada , Oparil Suzanne , Calhoun David A.
Published: December 2007

Experimental data indicate that the cardiorenal effects of aldosterone excess are dependent on concomitant high dietary salt intake. Such an interaction of endogenous aldosterone and dietary salt has not been observed previously in humans. We assessed the hypothesis that excess aldosterone and high dietary sodium intake combine to worsen proteinuria in patients with resistant hypertension. Consecutive subjects with resistant hypertension (n=84) were prospectively evaluated by measurement of 24-hour urinary aldosterone (Ualdo), sodium, and protein (Uprot) excretion. Subjects were analyzed according to aldosterone status (high: Ualdo ≥12 μg/24 hours; or normal: <12 μg/24 hours) and dietary salt intake based on tertiles of urinary sodium. The mean clinic blood pressure for all of the subjects was 161.4±22.4/89.8±13.5 mm Hg on an average of 4.3 medications. There was no blood pressure difference between study groups. Uprot was significantly higher in the 38 subjects with high Ualdo compared with the 46 subjects with normal Ualdo (143.0±83.8 versus 95.9±81.7 mg/24 hours;
P
=0.01). Among subjects with high Ualdo, Uprot increased progressively across urinary sodium groups (
P
<0.05). In contrast, there was no difference in Uprot across sodium tertiles among subjects with normal Ualdo. A positive correlation between Uprot and urinary sodium (
r
=0.47;
P
=0.003) was observed in subjects with high Ualdo but not in subjects with normal Ualdo (
r
=0.18;
P
value not significant). These results suggest that aldosterone excess and high dietary salt combine to increase urinary protein excretion.
Diet-Induced Obesity in Female Mice Leads to Offspring Hyperphagia, Adiposity, Hypertension, and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Samuelsson Anne-Maj , Matthews Phillippa A. , Argenton Marco , Christie Michael R. , McConnell Josie M. , Jansen Eugene H.J. M. , Piersma Aldert H. , Ozanne Susan E. , Twinn Denise Fernandez , Remacle Claude , Rowlerson Anthea , Poston Lucilla , Taylor Paul D.
Published: December 2007

Maternal obesity is increasingly prevalent and may affect the long-term health of the child. We investigated the effects of maternal diet-induced obesity in mice on offspring metabolic and cardiovascular function. Female C57BL/6J mice were fed either a standard chow (3% fat, 7% sugar) or a palatable obesogenic diet (16% fat, 33% sugar) for 6 weeks before mating and throughout pregnancy and lactation. Offspring of control (OC) and obese dams (OO) were weaned onto standard chow and studied at 3 and 6 months of age. OO were hyperphagic from 4 to 6 weeks of age compared with OC and at 3 months locomotor activity was reduced and adiposity increased (abdominal fat pad mass;
P
<0.01). OO were heavier than OC at 6 months (body weight,
P
<0.05). OO abdominal obesity was associated with adipocyte hypertrophy and altered mRNA expression of β-adrenoceptor 2 and 3, 11βHSD-1, and PPAR-γ 2. OO showed resistance artery endothelial dysfunction at 3 months, and were hypertensive, as assessed by radiotelemetry (nighttime systolic blood pressure at 6 months [mm Hg] mean±SEM, male OO, 134±1 versus OC, 124±2, n=8,
P
<0.05; female OO, 137±2 versus OC, 122±4, n=8,
P
<0.01). OO skeletal muscle mass (
tibialis anterior
) was significantly reduced (
P
<0.01) OO fasting insulin was raised at 3 months and by 6 months fasting plasma glucose was elevated. Exposure to the influences of maternal obesity in the developing mouse led to adult offspring adiposity and cardiovascular and metabolic dysfunction. Developmentally programmed hyperphagia, physical inactivity, and altered adipocyte metabolism may play a mechanistic role.
An Introduction to the Idea of Alternative Discourses
Authors:   Syed Farid Alatas
Published: December 2007

This introduction defines in broad contours "alternative discourses" as a collective term referring to attempts at social science theorizing and conceptualization in Asia and elsewhere that emerged as a result of dissatisfaction with mainstream Euroamerican-oriented models, research agendas, and priorities. It distinguishes the legitimate quest for alternative discourses from nativistic trends in the social sciences. Hence, this paper provides the intellectual background for the discussions in this volume on a variety of issues relating to the quest for alternative discourses in Asia.
Buying Stories: Ancient Tales, Renaissance Travelers, and the Market for the Marvelous
Authors: Johnson Christine
Published: December 2007

Why did Renaissance writers continue to repeat ancient descriptions about the distant places of the world, even after the arrival of new eyewitness accounts from contemporary travelers? Scholars have usually presented the survival of ancient reports as a reactionary clinging to "ancient authority" in the face of "modern experience." However, both ancient and modern descriptions purported to be based on direct observation, supplemented by hearsay, a claim that gave both sources some, but not undisputed, authority. Furthermore, modern explorations, although rendering certain ancient reports increasingly suspect, also provided confirmation about the wonders possible at the edges of the earth. Renaissance writers excluded some ancient and modern claims on the basis of superior understanding and standards of plausibility, but in general tried to include as much information as possible to provide readers with a full (if tentative) geographical picture and satisfy expectations about the existence of the marvelous. The confrontation between "ancient authority" and "modern experience" was manufactured in this period by select writers with a stake in the European expansion, who sought thereby to prove their indispensability.
The Hibernian Amazon: A Struggle for Sovereignty in the Portuguese Court, 1643-1648
Authors: Bomba Nicholas
Published: December 2007

Based on the archival records of the Conselho Ultramarino of Portugal, this article tells the story of an Irish colony in the Amazon, as it was conceived, proposed, and debated in the court of the House of Bragança. Although it is fascinating in its own right, this story reveals a more profound ideological fissure between the king and his counselors. By "naturalizing" a group of foreign émigrés, João IV threatened to undermine not only the security of his American colonies, but also the ideology of popular sovereignty that justified the recent overthrow of Habsburg rule and his own ascension to the throne. At the dawn of this Restoration, the fate of the Irish settlers threw into question the shape and character of the Portuguese nation and the foundations of the modern state.
Seasonal and Interannual Variations of Oceanic Conditions in the Angola Dome
Authors: Doi Takeshi , Tozuka Tomoki , Sasaki Hideharu , Masumoto Yukio , Yamagata Toshio
Published: December 2007

Using outputs from a high-resolution OGCM, seasonal and interannual variations of the Angola Dome (AD) are revisited. Although the AD was previously considered to be one large cold tongue extending from the West African coast, it is shown that two cold domes exist. These two domes have remarkably different mechanisms for their seasonal variation. The weak dome, whose center is located at 6°S, 1°E, develops from May to September owing to the divergence of heat transport associated with upwelling. The strong dome, on the other hand, extends from the west coast of Africa between 20° and 15°S, and develops from April to August by the surface heat flux. The interannual variation of the weak dome is strongly influenced by the Atlantic Niño. An unusual relaxation of easterly wind stress in the central equatorial Atlantic Ocean associated with the Atlantic Niño triggers second baroclinic downwelling equatorial Kelvin waves, which propagate eastward along the equator and poleward along the coast after reaching the African coast as coastal Kelvin waves. Then, downwelling Rossby waves radiate away from the coast and cause significant warming in the weak dome region. The interannual variation of the South Equatorial Undercurrent may be associated with that of the AD; its transport decreases by 0.6 Sv, and its core shifts equatorward by 0.2° when the AD is anomalously weak.
Sea-State-Dependent Momentum Fluxes for Ocean Modeling
Authors: Saetra Øyvind , Albretsen Jon , Janssen Peter A. E. M.
Published: December 2007

The impact of wave-dependent surface stress on the ocean circulation has been studied using surface stresses calculated from a numerical wave model. The main questions to be investigated were what the effect would be on the Ekman currents in the upper ocean and what the impact would be on storm surge predictions. To answer the first question, the response of wave-dependent forcing on an Ekman type of model was studied. Here, the wave forcing was provided by a one-gridpoint version of the wave model. Second, the impact of the waves was studied with a three-dimensional ocean circulation model for the North Sea. Three different experiments were performed for a period of 1 yr. To test the effect on the storm surge signal, the results have been compared with sea level observations from 22 stations along the Norwegian and Dutch coasts. One of the main findings is that calculating stresses in the wave model, thereby introducing sea-state-dependent momentum fluxes, has a strong positive impact on the storm surge modeling compared with applying a traditional parameterization of surface stresses from the 10-m wind speed. When all cases with sea level deviation from the mean of less than 0.5 m were removed, the root-mean-square error for 1 yr averaged over all stations was reduced by approximately 6 cm. Splitting the momentum budget into an Eulerian and a wave part (Stokes drift) has only a negligible effect on the modeling of the sea surface elevation but increases the angular turning of the Eulerian surface drift to the right of the wind direction with an angle of about 4°.
Second-Order Theory and Setup in Surface Gravity Waves: A Comparison with Experimental Data
Authors: Toffoli A. , Monbaliu J. , Onorato M. , Osborne A. R. , Babanin A. V. , Bitner-Gregersen E.
Published: December 2007

The second-order, three-dimensional, finite-depth wave theory is here used to investigate the statistical properties of the surface elevation and wave crests of field data from Lake George, Australia. A direct comparison of experimental and numerical data shows that, as long as the nonlinearity is small, the second-order model describes the statistical properties of field data very accurately. By low-pass filtering the Lake George time series, there is evidence that some energetic wave groups are accompanied by a setup instead of a setdown. A numerical study of the coupling coefficient of the second-order model reveals that such an experimental result is consistent with the second-order theory, provided directional spreading is included in the wave spectrum. In particular, the coupling coefficient of the second-order difference contribution predicts a setup as a result of the interaction of two waves with the same frequency but with different directions. This result is also confirmed by numerical simulations. Bispectral analysis, furthermore, indicates that this setup is a statistically significant feature of the observed wave records.
The Role of Stratification-Dependent Mixing for the Stability of the Atlantic Overturning in a Global Climate Model*
Authors: Marzeion Ben , Levermann Anders , Mignot Juliette
Published: December 2007

Using the “CLIMBER-3α” coupled climate model of intermediate complexity, the effect of a stratification-dependent vertical diffusivity on the sensitivity of the Atlantic Ocean meridional overturning circulation to perturbations in freshwater forcing is investigated. The vertical diffusivity κ is calculated as κ ∼ N−α, where N is the local buoyancy frequency and the parameter α is a measure of the sensitivity of the vertical diffusivity to changes in stratification. Independent of α, the stratification of the deep ocean is weakly increased as a response to an anomalous freshwater flux in the North Atlantic in these experiments. In the region of freshwater forcing and north of it this is caused by the freshwater anomaly itself, but farther south it is associated with anomalously warm surface waters caused by a reduction of the northward oceanic heat transport. Subsequently, and in opposition to results from previous studies, the overturning is reduced by the anomalous freshwater flux, independent of the choice of α. However, the amount of reduction in overturning following a freshwater perturbation is found to depend critically on the choice of the mixing sensitivity α. If α < αcr, the response is similar to the model’s response using constant vertical diffusivity (α = 0). For α > αcr, a sharp increase of the sensitivity is found. The value of αcr is found to be between 0.5 and 1. A general feedback is proposed explaining this threshold behavior: if α is large, both positive and negative perturbations of stratification are amplified by associated changes in diffusivity. In the experiments presented here, this enhances the initial positive stratification anomaly in northern high latitudes, which is created by the anomalous freshwater flux. As a result, convection is strongly reduced, and the overturning is significantly weakened.
Gods, Ancestors, and Hermeneutics of Liberation in Ayi Kwei Armah’s Two Thousand Seasons
Authors: Mtshali Khondlo
Published: December 2007

The objective of this article is to articulate the hermeneutics of liberation in Ayi Kwei Armah’s Two Thousand Seasons. Premised on an assertion that Two Thousand Seasons is divisible into three sections—the realm of the godhead, the realm of the ancestors, and the realm of the living—this article will argue that the protagonists of the novel use land, an abode of the ancestors, as a text through which they form themselves into a healing community. Reinterpreting African belief systems’ claim of connectedness of the ancestors to the gods and the godhead, this article will assert that when the protagonists have authentic relationship with each other and their world, they constitute gods or creative forces and consequently have a glimpse of the godhead. Commencing by articulating African belief systems’ concepts of godhead, gods, and ancestors, this article concludes by describing the hermeneutic project of the novel’s protagonists.
“A Geography of the Mind”
Authors: Beckford Sharon Morgan
Published: December 2007

A selection of fictional narratives written by Black Canadian women writers, who are themselves immigrants to Canada, speaks to some “unease” in the central characters' understanding of self, as well as their relation to the environments or places they occupy. The characters' concern about self in relation to place, Canada, both in terms of its physical and imaginative geographies, is depicted through their physical and psychical journeys. The literature reveals several psychological, sociological, and historical implications of migration and its effect on the Black female character's process of self-understanding. By employing the landscape as a metaphor of psychological reflection and/or self-awareness, these writers demonstrate the ways in which the Black female characters negotiate and articulate their understanding of self in relation to their environment and, in turn, the ways in which that engagement shapes their understanding of Canada and being Canadian.
Community Organizing by African Caribbean People in Toronto, Ontario
Authors: Gooden Amoaba
Published: December 2007

This article investigates the efficacy of community organizing by African Caribbean migrants in Toronto, Ontario. The author argues that community organizing was an instinctive initiative of African Caribbean people. Historically, Black community organizational agenda, although owing much to its own resourcefulness and fortitude, was intimately connected to the influence and strength of the larger White population. Racism and social exclusions were the major external factors influencing the majority of African Caribbean institutional building. In recreating community, African Caribbean people were influenced by this political milieu. Nevertheless, they were also influenced by their own internal desires and dreams of a better standard of living and a better life for their children. They were also subjected by, for example, their own ideas regarding class, culture, gender roles, family ties, work ethic, and diasporic connections that influenced how they (re)negotiate community.
Study on the Thick Tip of Lamb's Wool of Superfine Merino Sheep
Authors: Sun Run-Jun , Chen Mei-Yu , Mu Yao  , Zhang Zhao-Huan
Published: December 2007

Superfine wool of Merino sheep has many distinct characteristics, especially its higher fineness. Generally, its mean diameter is about 16.5 µm and it is a good material for fine worsted fabrics. However, the region near the tip of a primary fiber has a coarser fiber diameter, with a value of 35—66 µm. The length of such a segment is usually up to 16—22 mm. The secondary fiber also has a small swelling segment near the tip, but the length of this segment is very short and difficult to determine. The existence of such fibers with thick tips would greatly decrease the final product quality. However, the fiber diameter of the wool becomes even and unchangeable along the fiber when a lamb is 4 months old. Therefore, we suggest that lamb's wool should be sheared for other uses on lambs over 4 months of age.
Managing Civil-Military Cooperation
Authors: Rietjens Sebastiaan J. H.
Published: December 2007

From a management perspective, this article presents a process model to analyze cooperation between military and civilian actors in peace support operations. By means of multiple case study research, the article applies the model to eight partnerships between the Dutch Provincial Reconstruction Team and civilian actors (nongovernmental organizations, district governors, local constructors) in Baghlan, Afghanistan. These partnerships include explosives removal, power plant construction and police training courses. The article shows that civil-military cooperation processes follow six successive steps: decision to cooperate, partner selection, design, implementation, transfer of tasks and responsibilities, and evaluation. It is concluded that there is a lack of unambiguous and useful military guidelines regarding civil-military cooperation; the military are often unaware of other actors operating in the area and their programs, cooperation is frequently supply-based rather than demand-driven, and many military personnel involved in civil-military cooperation have little experience with and training in the subject.
Independence-supportive praise versus interdependence-promoting praise
Authors: Wang Yan Z. , Wiley Angela R. , Chiu Chi-Yue
Published: December 2007

This study used dinnertime observational data to investigate parental praise in Chinese-immigrant and European-American families. Three process models of praise with distinctive communicative content were uncovered. Two models focus on adherence to parental expectations, which promote the development of an interdependent self (interdependence-promoting praise). One focuses on child's self-initiated behaviors and supports the development of an independent self (independence-supportive praise). Consistent with past findings, independence-supportive praise is widely distributed in European-American families. Although interdependence-promoting praise has been overlooked in previous research, it is commonly found in Chinese-immigrant families. The findings are discussed in terms of their implications for the development of culturally inclusive models of praise.
Expanding acculturation theory: Are acculturation models and the adaptiveness of acculturation strategies generalizable in a colonial context?
Authors: Cheung-Blunden Violet L. , Juang Linda P.
Published: December 2007

Most acculturation research has been conducted in immigrant settings. The present study examined the generalizability of acculturation models and the adaptiveness of acculturation strategies in another bicultural environment — a colonial setting. The sample included 138 girls ( M = 13.8 years) and their parents from Hong Kong, a former British colony. Results verified that both Chinese and western acculturation occurred on individual psychological levels and that the bidimensional model was a suitable acculturation framework. Using hierarchical multiple regression, results suggested that acculturation towards Chinese (majority) culture was related to better adaptation in terms of higher academic achievement and positive family dynamics (parental nurturance and closer family relationships). Acculturation towards western (minority) culture was related to poorer adaptation in terms of engaging in greater misconduct and negative family interactions (larger intergenerational value discrepancies and family conflicts). Thus, acculturation towards the majority culture held adaptive implications, whereas acculturation towards the minority culture held maladaptive implications. Consideration of the bicultural composition (e.g., status, prestige, strength of cultural networks of each culture) should be incorporated into acculturation theory to better understand adjustment implications across a wide range of contexts.
Mentoring, competencies, and adjustment in adolescents: American part-time employment and European apprenticeships
Authors: Vazsonyi Alexander T. , Snider J. Blake
Published: December 2007

Based on the conceptual argument that the European apprenticeship might explain cross-national variability in adolescent adjustment, the current investigation tested the relationships between mentoring experiences, namely joint activities with mentors as well as perceived mentoring behaviors by unrelated adults in the work setting, and measures of both psychosocial competencies (job skills, self esteem, and well-being) and measures of adjustment (alcohol use, drug use, and deviance). Data were collected from n = 2735 Swiss apprentices and n = 368 U.S. part-time employees who attended high school. Findings provide evidence that perceived mentoring behaviors by unrelated adults in the work setting in both developmental contexts were associated with both psychosocial competencies and adjustment indicators. Contrary to the idea that the European apprenticeship may provide a unique “protective” developmental experience for youth in comparison with U.S. adolescents who work part-time, adolescents in both contexts benefited equally from good mentoring experiences.
Socialization goals among first- and second-generation migrant Turkish and German mothers
Authors: Citlak Banu , Leyendecker Birgit , Schölmerich Axel , Driessen Ricarda , Harwood Robin L.
Published: December 2007

The current study examines generational differences in Turkish mothers' socialization goals following migration to Germany. A total of 78 working-class mothers from three different groups (Turkish first- and second-generation, and German non-migrant) participated. Each mother had a child between 18 and 36 months of age. Mothers were interviewed using the Socialization Goals Interview. The results indicate that compared to both groups of Turkish mothers, German mothers placed more emphasis on self-control as a socialization goal, and compared with the first-generation mothers only, were more concerned that their child develop characteristics associated with psychological independence and self-confidence. Among the Turkish mothers, more highly educated mothers placed less emphasis on the importance of respect towards others than did less educated mothers.
Boyfriend, girlfriend in a traditional society: Parenting styles and development of intimate friendships among Arabs in school
Authors: Sharabany Ruth , Eshel Yohanan , Hakim Caesar
Published: December 2007

The development of intimate same- and other-sex friendships in Arab children and adolescents in Israel was investigated in relation to their perceived parenting styles. It was hypothesized that girls would show higher levels of intimacy than boys, and that cross-sex intimacy in both groups would increase with age, whereas same-sex intimate friendship maintains rather stable over the school years. We hypothesized further that intimate friendship would be contingent more readily on perceived parental authoritative style rather than on either permissive or authoritarian styles. Participants were 723 Arab students drawn from four schools, and from the 5th, 7th, 9th, and 11th grades. The Parental Authority Questionnaire and Intimate Friendship Scale were employed as measures. Findings indicated that girls were more intimate with their female friends than boys were with their male friends, especially in the higher grades, replicating previous studies. However, boys tended to score higher than girls on intimacy with the other gender. Girls equaled their level of intimacy only at the 11th grade. These findings suggest that traditional societies may foster specific characteristics of intimate friendship. A novel finding is the central role of the authoritative parenting style in determining intimate friendships. Results are discussed in terms of universal aspects of friendship and of their expression in the investigated cultural setting.
Comparing the Power of Robots
Authors: O'Kane Jason M. , LaValle Steven M.
Published: December 2007

Robots must complete their tasks in spite of unreliable actuators and limited, noisy sensing. In this paper, we consider the information requirements of such tasks. What sensing and actuation abilities are needed to complete a given task? Are some robot systems provably “more powerful”, in terms of the tasks that they can complete, than others? Can we find meaningful equivalence classes of robot systems? This line of research is inspired by the theory of computation, which has produced similar results for abstract computing machines. Our basic contribution is a dominance relation over robot systems that formalizes the idea that some robots are stronger than others. This comparison, which is based on how the robots progress through their information spaces, induces a partial order over the set of robot systems. We prove some basic properties of this partial order and show that it is directly related to the robots' ability to complete tasks. We give examples to demonstrate the theory, including a detailed analysis of a limited-sensing global localization problem.