bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Baroreceptor Denervation Prevents Sympathoinhibition During Angiotensin II–Induced Hypertension
Authors: Barrett Carolyn J. , Guild Sarah-Jane , Ramchandra Rohit , Malpas Simon C.
Published: May 2005

Arterial baroreflexes are well established to provide the basis for short-term control of arterial pressure; however, their role in long-term pressure control is more controversial. We proposed that if the sustained decrease in renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) we observed previously in response to angiotensin II–induced hypertension is baroreflex mediated, then the decrease in RSNA in response to angiotensin II would not occur in sinoaortic-denervated (SAD) animals. Arterial pressure and RSNA were recorded continuously via telemetry in sham and SAD rabbits living in their home cages before, during, and after a 7-day infusion of angiotensin II (50 ng · kg
−1
· min
−1
). The arterial pressure responses in the 2 groups of rabbits were not significantly different (82±3 mm Hg sham versus 83±3 mm Hg SAD before angiotensin II infusion, and 101±6 mm Hg sham versus 100±4 mm Hg SAD day 6 of angiotensin II). In sham rabbits, there was a significant sustained decrease in RSNA (53±7% of baseline on day 2 and 65±7% on day 6 of the angiotensin II). On ceasing the angiotensin II, all variables recovered to baseline. In contrast, RSNA did not change in SAD rabbits with the angiotensin II infusion (RSNA was 98±8% of baseline on day 2 and 98±8% on day 6 of the angiotensin II infusion). These results support our hypothesis that the reduction in RSNA in response to a pressor dose of angiotensin II is dependent on an intact arterial baroreflex pathway.
Ventricular Arterial Stiffening
Authors: Kass David A.
Published: May 2005

Vascular stiffening of the large arteries is a common feature of aging and is exacerbated by many common disorders such as hypertension, diabetes, and renal disease. This change influences the phasic mechanical stresses imposed on the blood vessels that in turn is important to regulating smooth muscle tone, endothelial function, and vascular health. In addition, the heart typically adapts to confront higher and later systolic loads by both hypertrophy and ventricular systolic stiffening. This creates altered coupling between heart and vessel that importantly affects cardiovascular reserve function. In this overview, I discuss the notion of a
coupling disease
in which stiffness of both heart and arteries interact to limit performance and generate clinical symptoms. This involves changes in the mechanical interaction of both systems, changes in signaling within the arteries themselves, and alterations in coronary flow regulation. Lastly, I briefly review recent development in de-stiffening strategies that may pave the way to treat this syndrome and its clinical manifestations.
Arterial Stiffness in Chronic Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Roman Mary J. , Devereux Richard B. , Schwartz Joseph E. , Lockshin Michael D. , Paget Stephen A. , Davis Adrienne , Crow Mary K. , Sammaritano Lisa , Levine Daniel M. , Shankar Beth-Ann , Moeller Elfi , Salmon Jane E.
Published: May 2005

Chronic inflammatory diseases are associated with premature atherosclerosis; however, it is unknown whether arterial stiffness is increased in this setting, possibly as a manifestation of vascular disease preceding and/or independent of atherosclerosis. Carotid ultrasonography and radial applanation tonometry were performed in 101 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, 80 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, and 105 healthy control subjects. The 3 groups were comparable in age, gender, and carotid artery absolute and relative wall thickness. Atherosclerotic plaque was more common in lupus (46%) and rheumatoid arthritis (38%) patients than in controls (23%) (
P
<0.003). Although control subjects had higher central and peripheral blood pressures, arterial stiffness was increased in patient groups compared with controls (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, controls, respectively: β: 3.36 versus 3.22 versus 2.60,
P
<0.001; Young’s modulus: 441 versus 452 versus 366 mm Hg/cm,
P
=0.004; Peterson’s elastic modulus: 278 versus 273 versus 216 mm Hg,
P
<0.001) after adjustment for differences in mean brachial pressure. In multivariate analysis involving the entire population, arterial stiffness was independently related to age, serum glucose, and the presence of chronic inflammatory disease. In multivariate analysis restricted to the patients, arterial stiffness was independently related to age at diagnosis, disease duration, serum cholesterol, and C-reactive protein (and IL-6, when substituted for C-reactive protein). When analyses were repeated in the 186 study subjects without carotid plaque, arterial stiffness remained significantly elevated in patient groups after adjustment for differences in age and mean brachial pressure. In conclusion, arterial stiffness is increased in chronic inflammatory disorders independent of the presence of atherosclerosis and is related to disease duration, cholesterol, and the inflammatory mediator C-reactive protein and the cytokine that stimulates its production, IL-6.
Electrocardiographic Features in Andersen-Tawil Syndrome Patients With
KCNJ2
Mutations
Authors: Zhang Li , Benson D. Woodrow , Tristani-Firouzi Martin , Ptacek Louis J. , Tawil Rabi , Schwartz Peter J. , George Alfred L. , Horie Minoru , Andelfinger Gregor , Snow Gregory L. , Fu Ying-Hui , Ackerman Michael J. , Vincent G. Michael
Published: May 2005

Background—

The ECG features of Andersen-Tawil syndrome (ATS) patients with
KCNJ2
mutations (ATS1) have not been systematically assessed. This study aimed to define ECG features of
KCNJ2
mutation carriers, to determine whether characteristic T-U–wave patterns exist, and to establish whether T-U patterns predict the ATS1 genotype.

Methods and Results—

In phase I, evaluation of T-U morphology in ECGs of 39
KCNJ2
mutation carriers identified characteristic T-U patterns: prolonged terminal T downslope, wide T-U junction, and biphasic and enlarged U waves. In phase II, ATS1 genotype prediction by T-U pattern was evaluated in the next 147 ECGs (57 other
KCNJ2
mutation carriers, 61 unaffected family members, and 29 ATS patients without
KCNJ2
mutations), with a sensitivity of 84% and specificity of 97%. Characteristic T-U patterns were present in 91% (87/96), in whom an enlarged U wave was predominant (73%). In phase III, QTc, QUc, and T- and U-wave duration/amplitude were compared in the 96 ATS1, 29 non-
KCNJ2
ATS, and 75 normal subjects. In ATS1 patients, QUc, U-wave duration and amplitude, and QTc were all increased (
P
<0.001), but median QTc and interquartile range (IQR) were just 440 ms (IQR, 28 ms) compared with 420 ms (IQR, 20 ms) in normal subjects and 425 ms (IQR, 48 ms) in ATS non-
KCNJ2
patients.

Conclusions—

In ATS1 patients, gene-specific T-U–wave patterns resulting from decreased
I
K1
owing to
KCNJ2
mutations can aid diagnosis and direct genotyping. The normal QTc, distinct ECG, and other clinical features distinguish ATS1 from long-QT syndrome, and it is best designated as ATS1 rather than LQT7.
Tissue Engineering of Heart Valves
Authors: Rieder Erwin , Seebacher Gernot , Kasimir Marie-Theres , Eichmair Eva , Winter Birgitta , Dekan Barbara , Wolner Ernst , Simon Paul , Weigel Guenter
Published: May 2005

Background—

Tissue-engineered or decellularized heart valves have already been implanted in humans or are currently approaching the clinical setting. The aim of this study was to examine the migratory response of human monocytic cells toward decellularized porcine and human heart valves, a pivotal step in the early immunologic reaction.

Methods and Results—

Porcine and human pulmonary valve conduits were decellularized, and migration of U-937 monocytic cells toward extracted heart valve proteins was examined in a transmigration chamber in vitro. Homogenized tissue specimens were size fractionated by SDS-PAGE. The decellularization procedure effectively reduced the migration of human monocytes toward all heart valve tissue. However, only the antigen reduction of human pulmonary valves abolished the monocytic response (wall, 0.88±0.19% versus 30.20±3.93% migrated cells [mean±SEM]; cusps, 0.10±0.06% versus 10.24±1.83%) and was significantly lower (
P
<0.05) than that of the decellularized porcine equivalent (wall, 5.03±0.14% versus 24.31±2.38%; cusps, 3.18±0.38% versus 10.24±1.83%). SDS-PAGE of the pulmonary heart valve tissue revealed that considerable amounts of proteins with different molecular weights that were not detected in the human equivalent remain in the decellularized porcine heart valve.

Conclusions—

We describe for the first time that the remaining potential of decellularized pulmonary heart valves to attract monocytic cells depends strongly on whether porcine or human scaffolds were used. These findings will have an important impact on further investigations in the field of heart valve tissue engineering.
Smad1 Protects Cardiomyocytes From Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Masaki Mitsuru , Izumi Masahiro , Oshima Yuichi , Nakaoka Yoshikazu , Kuroda Tadashi , Kimura Ryusuke , Sugiyama Shoko , Terai Kazuo , Kitakaze Masafumi , Yamauchi-Takihara Keiko , Kawase Ichiro , Hirota Hisao
Published: May 2005

Background—

We previously reported that bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) protected against apoptosis of serum-deprived cardiomyocytes via induction of Bcl-xL through the Smad1 pathway. To investigate whether Smad1 signaling promotes cell survival in the adult heart, we subjected transgenic mice with cardiac-specific overexpression of smad1 gene (Smad1TG) to ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury.

Methods and Results—

The effects of BMP2 or adenovirus-mediated transfection of smad1 on cardiomyocyte survival in hypoxia-reoxygenation were examined using rat neonatal cardiomyocytes. BMP2 and Smad1 each significantly promoted survival and diminished apoptotic death of cardiomyocytes during hypoxia-reoxygenation. Interestingly, Smad1 was found to be activated during I/R in normal mouse heart. To examine physiological and pathological roles of Smad1 in I/R, we generated Smad1TG using the α-myosin heavy chain gene promoter. Phosphorylation of Smad1 was found in all smad1 transgene–positive mouse hearts. To examine whether Smad1 prevents injury of cardiomyocytes in vivo, we subjected Smad1TG and age-matched wild-type mice (WT) to I/R injury induced by 1 hour of ligation of the left coronary artery and 1 hour of reperfusion. TUNEL and DNA ladder analyses showed that Smad1TG had significantly smaller myocardial infarctions and fewer apoptotic deaths of cardiomyocytes than did WT. Interestingly, increased expression of Bcl-xL and β-catenin was more remarkable whereas caspase3 was less activated in Smad1TG heart than in that of WT.

Conclusions—

These findings suggest that the Smad1 signaling pathway plays a role in cardioprotection against I/R injury.
Furin-Like Proprotein Convertases Are Central Regulators of the Membrane Type Matrix Metalloproteinase–Pro-Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 Proteolytic Cascade in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Stawowy Philipp , Meyborg Heike , Stibenz Dietger , Stawowy Núbia Borges Pereira , Roser Mattias , Thanabalasingam Usan , Veinot John P. , Chrétien Michel , Seidah Nabil G. , Fleck Eckart , Graf Kristof
Published: May 2005

Background—

Accumulation of macrophages and their in situ expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are important determinants of plaque stability. Activation of membrane-bound MT1-MMP, the major activator of pro-MMP-2, requires intracellular endoproteolytic cleavage of its precursor protein. This type of activation typically requires suitable furin-like proprotein convertases (PCs), specifically furin and PC5. The present study was done to investigate the function of MT1-MMP as well as furin-like PCs in mononuclear inflammatory cells.

Methods and Results—

Macrophage differentiation of human monocytic THP-1 cells was accompanied by increased expression of furin, PC5, and MT1-MMP. Some pro-MMP-2 activation was found in macrophages, but pro-MMP-2 level or activation was not enhanced after stimulation with the proinflammatory mediators tumor necrosis factor-α or lipopolysaccharide. However, culturing of macrophages in conditioned medium from serum-starved vascular smooth muscle cells, which constitutively secrete pro-MMP-2, resulted in a strong pro-MMP-2 activation. Inhibition of furin-like PCs with the specific pharmacological inhibitor decanoyl-RVKR-chloromethylketone (dec-CMK) inhibited MT1-MMP activation in macrophages. Dec-CMK or furin-specific small interfering RNA significantly inhibited macrophage MT1-MMP–dependent activation of vascular smooth muscle cell–derived pro-MMP-2. Flow cytometry demonstrated that human circulating monocytes express furin and PC5, and MT1-MMP and immunohistochemistry revealed their colocalization in macrophages in advanced human atherosclerotic lesions.

Conclusions—

Furin-like PCs (furin and PC5) play a central role in a MT-MMP–MMP-2 proteolytic cascade, involving provision of macrophage MT1-MMP for the activation of pro-MMP-2 synthesized by other cells. Furin and PC5 are expressed in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells and colocalize with MT1-MMP in macrophages in the atherosclerotic plaque, supporting the hypothesis that they are potential targets in atherosclerosis.
Presence of Intraplaque Hemorrhage Stimulates Progression of Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaques
Authors: Takaya Norihide , Yuan Chun , Chu Baocheng , Saam Tobias , Polissar Nayak L. , Jarvik Gail P. , Isaac Carol , McDonough Judith , Natiello Cynthia , Small Randy , Ferguson Marina S. , Hatsukami Thomas S.
Published: May 2005

Background—

Previous studies suggest that erythrocyte membranes from intraplaque hemorrhage into the necrotic core are a source of free cholesterol and may become a driving force in the progression of atherosclerosis. We have shown that MRI can accurately identify carotid intraplaque hemorrhage and precisely measure plaque volume. We tested the hypothesis that hemorrhage into carotid atheroma stimulates plaque progression.

Methods and Results—

Twenty-nine subjects (14 cases with intraplaque hemorrhage and 15 controls with comparably sized plaques without intraplaque hemorrhage at baseline) underwent serial carotid MRI examination with a multicontrast weighted protocol (T1, T2, proton density, and 3D time of flight) over a period of 18 months. The volumes of wall, lumen, lipid-rich necrotic core, calcification, and intraplaque hemorrhage were measured with a custom-designed image analysis tool. The percent change in wall volume (6.8% versus −0.15%;
P
=0.009) and lipid-rich necrotic core volume (28.4% versus −5.2%;
P
=0.001) was significantly higher in the hemorrhage group than in controls over the course of the study. Furthermore, those with intraplaque hemorrhage at baseline were much more likely to have new plaque hemorrhages at 18 months compared with controls (43% versus 0%;
P
=0.006).

Conclusions—

Hemorrhage into the carotid atherosclerotic plaque accelerated plaque progression in an 18-month period. Repeated bleeding into the plaque may produce a stimulus for the progression of atherosclerosis by increasing lipid core and plaque volume and creating new destabilizing factors.
Cardiac Dyssynchrony Analysis Using Circumferential Versus Longitudinal Strain
Authors: Helm Robert H. , Leclercq Christophe , Faris Owen P. , Ozturk Cengizhan , McVeigh Elliot , Lardo Albert C. , Kass David A.
Published: May 2005

Background—

QRS duration is commonly used to select heart failure patients for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). However, not all patients respond to CRT, and recent data suggest that direct assessments of mechanical dyssynchrony may better predict chronic response. Echo-Doppler methods are being used increasingly, but these principally rely on longitudinal motion (ε
ll
). It is unknown whether this analysis yields qualitative and/or quantitative results similar to those based on motion in the predominant muscle-fiber orientation (circumferential; ε
cc
).

Methods and Results—

Both ε
ll
and ε
cc
strains were calculated throughout the left ventricle from 3D MR-tagged images for the full cardiac cycle in dogs with cardiac failure and a left bundle conduction delay. Dyssynchrony was assessed from both temporal and regional strain variance analysis. CRT implemented by either biventricular (BiV) or left ventricular–only (LV) pacing enhanced systolic function similarly and correlated with improved dyssynchrony based on ε
cc
-based metrics. In contrast, longitudinal-based analyses revealed significant resynchronization with BiV but not LV for the overall cycle and correlated poorly with global functional benefit. Furthermore, unlike circumferential analysis, ε
ll
-based indexes indicated resynchronization in diastole but much less in systole and had a lower dynamic range and higher intrasubject variance.

Conclusions—

Dyssynchrony assessed by longitudinal motion is less sensitive to dyssynchrony, follows different time courses than those from circumferential motion, and may manifest CRT benefit during specific cardiac phases depending on pacing mode. These results highlight potential limitations to ε
ll
-based analyses and support further efforts to develop noninvasive synchrony measures based on circumferential deformation.
Interstitial ATP and Norepinephrine Concentrations in Active Muscle
Authors: Li Jianhua , King Nicholas C. , Sinoway Lawrence I.
Published: May 2005

Background—

Sympathetic nervous system activity increases with exercise in normal subjects. Heightened peripheral sympathetic nervous activity and the resultant increased neurovascular levels of norepinephrine (NE) evoke vasoconstriction and serve to maintain blood pressure and perfusion to vital organs. Previous work demonstrated that the interstitial ATP concentrations ([ATP]i) rise in contracting skeletal muscle, and it is known that sympathetic nerves have purinergic P2X receptors. Thus, in this report we tested the hypothesis that elevated ATP would stimulate these receptors and increase interstitial NE concentrations ([NE]i).

Methods and Results—

Muscle interstitial samples were collected from microdialysis probes inserted in the skeletal muscle of rats, and dialysate concentrations of ATP and NE were determined by the high-performance liquid chromatography method. Stretch (0.5 kg of tension) increased [ATP]i by 68% (
P
<0.05) and [NE]i by 45% (
P
<0.05) in active muscle. The rise in NEi was linearly linked to the elevated ATPi (
r
=0.878,
P
<0.001). [NE]i was also elevated by 76% (
P
<0.05) after ATP (3 μmol/L) was injected into the arterial blood supply of the hindlimb muscles. The [NE]i response to muscle stretch was blunted after the P2X receptor antagonist pyridoxal phosphate-6-azophenyl-2′,4′-disulfonic acid (PPADS) was given. Finally, this response was potentiated by the nucleotidase inhibitor 6-
N,N
-diethyl-β-γ-dibromomethylene-
d
-adenosine-5′-triphosphate (ARL67156).

Conclusions—

ATPi released by skeletal muscle during stretch stimulates P2X receptors on the sympathetic nerves and increases the concentration of NEi in the muscle interstitium.
Expression of Human Myeloperoxidase by Macrophages Promotes Atherosclerosis in Mice
Authors: McMillen Timothy S. , Heinecke Jay W. , LeBoeuf Renee C.
Published: May 2005

Background—

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) colocalizes with macrophages in the human artery wall, and its characteristic oxidation products have been detected in atherosclerotic lesions. Thus, oxidants produced by the enzyme might promote atherosclerosis. However, macrophages in mouse atherosclerotic tissue do not express MPO. Therefore, mice are an inappropriate model for testing the role of MPO in vascular disease. To overcome this problem, we generated and studied transgenic (Tg) mice that contained the human
MPO
gene.

Methods and Results—

We produced human
MPO
-Tg mice with use of a Visna virus promoter. To confine MPO expression to macrophages, we lethally irradiated LDL receptor–deficient mice and repopulated their bone marrow with cells from wild-type mice or
MPO
-Tg mice. Despite having similarly high levels of cholesterol after maintenance on a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet, the
MPO
-Tg animals developed a 2-fold greater atherosclerotic area in the aorta than did mice transplanted with wild-type bone marrow (
P
=0.00003).

Conclusions—

Our observations indicate that expression of human MPO in macrophages promotes atherosclerosis in hypercholesterolemic mice, raising the possibility that the enzyme might be a potential therapeutic target for preventing cardiovascular disease in humans.
"Heil Dir im Siegerkranz". Nationale Feier- und Gedenktage als Formen kollektiver Identifikation
Authors: Knoll Joachim H.
Published: May 2005

Starting from a political controversy and a wide-ranging media-discussion, the article examines the evolution of German national holidays from the "Kaiserreich" to the reunited Federal Republic (1871-2005). The author lists the dates and attributes of the national festivities (national emblems, national colors, national anthem) and asks to what extent national days can contribute to a collective identification with the given state and its political system. In the process of change one identifies a long run from emotional festivity towards a rather rational attitude in celebrating the National Day. The future of the current German national holiday (October 3) in the frame of a 'democratic culture' is far away from being settled.
Use of Salt Lake City URBAN 2000 Field Data to Evaluate the Urban Hazard Prediction Assessment Capability (HPAC) Dispersion Model
Authors: Chang Joseph C. , Hanna Steven R. , Boybeyi Zafer , Franzese Pasquale
Published: May 2005

After the terrorist incidents on 11 September 2001, there is a greatly heightened concern about the potential impacts of acts of terrorism involving the atmospheric release of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) materials in urban areas. In response to the need for an urban CBRN model, the Urban Hazard Prediction Assessment Capability (Urban HPAC) transport and dispersion model has been developed. Because HPAC is widely used by the Department of Defense community for planning, training, and operational and tactical purposes, it is of great importance that the new model be adequately evaluated with urban datasets to demonstrate its accuracy. This paper describes evaluations of Urban HPAC using the “URBAN 2000” urban tracer and meteorological field experiment data from Salt Lake City, Utah. Four Urban HPAC model configuration options and five plausible meteorological input data options—ranging from data-sparse to data-rich scenarios—were considered in the study, thus leading to a total of 20 possible model combinations. For the maximum concentrations along each sampling arc for each intensive operating period (IOP), the 20 Urban HPAC model combinations gave consistent mean overpredictions of about 50%, with a range over the 20 model combinations from no overprediction to a factor-of-4 overprediction in the mean. The median of the random scatter for the 20 model combinations was about a factor of 3 of the mean, with a range over the 20 model combinations between a factor of about 2 and 9. These performance measures satisfy previously established acceptance criteria for dispersion models.
Arctic Mixed-Phase Cloud Properties from AERI Lidar Observations: Algorithm and Results from SHEBA
Authors: Turner D. D.
Published: May 2005

A new approach to retrieve microphysical properties from mixed-phase Arctic clouds is presented. This mixed-phase cloud property retrieval algorithm (MIXCRA) retrieves cloud optical depth, ice fraction, and the effective radius of the water and ice particles from ground-based, high-resolution infrared radiance and lidar cloud boundary observations. The theoretical basis for this technique is that the absorption coefficient of ice is greater than that of liquid water from 10 to 13 μm, whereas liquid water is more absorbing than ice from 16 to 25 μm. MIXCRA retrievals are only valid for optically thin (τvisible < 6) single-layer clouds when the precipitable water vapor is less than 1 cm. MIXCRA was applied to the Atmospheric Emitted Radiance Interferometer (AERI) data that were collected during the Surface Heat Budget of the Arctic Ocean (SHEBA) experiment from November 1997 to May 1998, where 63% of all of the cloudy scenes above the SHEBA site met this specification. The retrieval determined that approximately 48% of these clouds were mixed phase and that a significant number of clouds (during all 7 months) contained liquid water, even for cloud temperatures as low as 240 K. The retrieved distributions of effective radii for water and ice particles in single-phase clouds are shown to be different than the effective radii in mixed-phase clouds.
Comments on “Estimating Soil Water Contents from Soil Temperature Measurements by Using an Adaptive Kalman Filter”
Authors: Yang Kun , Koike Toshio
Published: May 2005

A scheme was proposed by Zhang et al. to estimate soil water content from soil temperature measurements by using an adaptive Kalman filter. Their scheme is based on the fact that soil heat capacity and thermal conductivity are a monotonic function of soil water content. However, thermal diffusivity, a more critical thermal parameter in such an estimation, is not a monotonic function of soil water content in most cases. This could result in multiple solutions in some cases when deriving soil water content from soil temperatures.
Ground Validation for the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM)
Authors: Wolff David B. , Marks D. A. , Amitai E. , Silberstein D. S. , Fisher B. L. , Tokay A. , Wang J. , Pippitt J. L.
Published: May 2005

An overview of the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Ground Validation (GV) Program is presented. This ground validation (GV) program is based at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, and is responsible for processing several TRMM science products for validating space-based rain estimates from the TRMM satellite. These products include gauge rain rates, and radar-estimated rain intensities, type, and accumulations, from four primary validation sites (Kwajalein Atoll, Republic of the Marshall Islands; Melbourne, Florida; Houston, Texas; and Darwin, Australia). Site descriptions of rain gauge networks and operational weather radar configurations are presented together with the unique processing methodologies employed within the Ground Validation System (GVS) software packages. Rainfall intensity estimates are derived using the Window Probability Matching Method (WPMM) and then integrated over specified time scales. Error statistics from both dependent and independent validation techniques show good agreement between gauge-measured and radar-estimated rainfall. A comparison of the NASA GV products and those developed independently by the University of Washington for a subset of data from the Kwajalein Atoll site also shows good agreement. A comparison of NASA GV rain intensities to satellite retrievals from the TRMM Microwave Imager (TMI), precipitation radar (PR), and Combined (COM) algorithms is presented, and it is shown that the GV and satellite estimates agree quite well over the open ocean.
High-Frequency Single-Board Doppler Minisodar for Precipitation Measurements. Part I: Rainfall and Hail
Authors: Pang Shixuan , Graßl Hartmut
Published: May 2005

A high-frequency Doppler sodar for precipitation measurements has been developed. Such a Doppler sodar (6–20 kHz) can almost always measure precipitation and turbulence spectra simultaneously. Therefore, the mean vertical wind and spectral broadening effects can be directly removed. As the acoustic refractive indices for ice and liquid water are almost the same, the acoustic retrieval of precipitation can also be applied to rain with small hail (e.g., diameter D < 10 mm) or large hail, but for the latter, neglecting the effects of different orientations and shapes of hailstones.

The authors’ single-board minisodar is based on the digital signal processing (DSP) technique. The first prototype has been continuously operated at a coastal weather station since 25 October 2002. For stratiform rain events, the minisodar showed good agreement with a Joss–Waldvogel disdrometer and an optical rain gauge. However, for convective heavy showers, the minisodar always observed higher rain rates.

The continuous, nonattended automatic operation of the minisodar has shown its capability for all kinds of precipitation measurements. The retrieval of precipitation rates for snow and graupel will be provided in a subsequent paper.
A New Nonparametric Method to Correct Model Data: Application to Significant Wave Height from the ERA-40 Re-Analysis
Authors: Caires S. , Sterl A.
Published: May 2005

A new nonparametric method to correct model data is proposed. At any given point in space and time the correction is determined from “analogs” in a learning dataset. The learning dataset contains model data and simultaneous observations. The method is applied to the significant wave height dataset of the 45-yr European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Re-Analysis (ERA-40). Comparison of the corrected data with significant wave height measurements from in situ buoy and global altimeter data shows clear improvements in bias, scatter, and quantiles in the whole range of values. Temporal inhomogeneities are also removed.
Assessment of Cirrus Cloud Optical and Microphysical Data Reliability by Applying Statistical Procedures
Authors: Shcherbakov Valery , Gayet Jean-François , Jourdan Olivier , Minikin Andreas , Ström Johan , Petzold Andreas
Published: May 2005

A methodology of employing statistical procedures, specifically the principal component analysis (PCA) technique, to assess cirrus cloud data reliability is described. The approach is demonstrated by an example of a study of optical and microphysical characteristics measured during two campaigns performed at midlatitudes in the pristine Southern (SH) and polluted Northern (NH) Hemispheres within the international INCA project (Interhemispheric Differences in Cirrus Cloud Properties from Anthropogenic Emissions). The datasets were obtained by using state-of-the-art airborne instruments including the polar nephelometer and PMS particle size spectrometers for the ice-particle characterization. The approach is applied to both the measured angular scattering intensities and the ice-particle size distributions. It is shown that the PCA technique allows for impartial elimination of nonreliable channels of instruments. Furthermore, this technique is efficient in a study if the dataset is statistically homogeneous, and provides the possibility of removing specific records corresponding to distinguishing statistical ensembles. The results, expressed in terms of significant components and corresponding eigenvalues, show that the Southern and Northern Hemisphere datasets are in good agreement and they can be considered as statistically representative of the sampled cirrus. Furthermore, the frequency distributions of the cirrus cloud microphysical and optical properties can be regarded as arbitrary positive quantities, which are lognormally distributed. The validation of the measurements is provided by intercomparison of parameters estimated from different and independent techniques. The statistical relationships between quantities derived from angular scattering intensities and from ice-particle distributions as well as the similarity of the results obtained for the Southern and Northern Hemisphere cases serve as proof of the reliability of the measured cloud properties.
Angular Distribution Models for Top-of-Atmosphere Radiative Flux Estimation from the Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System Instrument on the Terra Satellite. Part I: Methodology
Authors: Loeb Norman G. , Kato Seiji , Loukachine Konstantin , Manalo-Smith Natividad
Published: May 2005

The Clouds and Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) provides coincident global cloud and aerosol properties together with reflected solar, emitted terrestrial longwave, and infrared window radiative fluxes. These data are needed to improve the understanding and modeling of the interaction between clouds, aerosols, and radiation at the top of the atmosphere, surface, and within the atmosphere. This paper describes the approach used to estimate top-of-atmosphere (TOA) radiative fluxes from instantaneous CERES radiance measurements on the Terra satellite. A key component involves the development of empirical angular distribution models (ADMs) that account for the angular dependence of the earth’s radiation field at the TOA. The CERES Terra ADMs are developed using 24 months of CERES radiances, coincident cloud and aerosol retrievals from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), and meteorological parameters from the Global Modeling and Assimilation Office (GMAO)’s Goddard Earth Observing System (GEOS) Data Assimilation System (DAS) V4.0.3 product. Scene information for the ADMs is from MODIS retrievals and GEOS DAS V4.0.3 properties over the ocean, land, desert, and snow for both clear and cloudy conditions. Because the CERES Terra ADMs are global, and far more CERES data are available on Terra than were available from CERES on the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM), the methodology used to define CERES Terra ADMs is different in many respects from that used to develop CERES TRMM ADMs, particularly over snow/sea ice, under cloudy conditions, and for clear scenes over land and desert.
Temporal Sampling: How Many Sections Are Needed to Quantify the Mean Transport and Structure of a Meandering Current?
Authors: Meinen Christopher S.
Published: May 2005

Two years of observations from an array of 16 inverted echo sounders deployed south of Australia near 51°S, 143.5°E are combined with hydrographic observations from the region to estimate the differences in baroclinic transport, as well as temperature and velocity structure, that result from trying to estimate the true mean using a limited number of snapshot sections. The results of a Monte Carlo–type simulation suggest that over a 350-km distance, completely spanning the Subantarctic Front (SAF) at most times, a minimum of six temporally independent sections would be required to determine the baroclinic transport mean (surface to 4000 db) of the observed 2-yr period to within an accuracy of 10% when the sections are averaged in either an Eulerian (geographic) or stream coordinates manner. However, even with 10 sections during a 2-yr period the details of the mean velocity and temperature structures obtained can be quite different than the “true” 2-yr mean structure, regardless of whether the sections are averaged in either Eulerian or stream coordinates. It is estimated that at least 20 independent sections would be required during a 2-yr period in order to determine the baroclinic velocity structure to within an accuracy of 10%, irrespective of whether they are averaged in Eulerian or stream coordinates. Implications for future sampling strategies and for inverse modeling analyses are discussed.
Measuring Clustering in Clouds Using Non-Rayleigh Signal Statistics
Authors: Jameson A. R.
Published: May 2005

The clustering or clumping of droplets appears to be nearly ubiquitous in clouds. Clustering likely plays roles in a number of different physical processes, from the growth of hail, to snow aggregation, to the growth of raindrops, to cloud radiation, and even to what one means by a size distribution. Of more immediate concern, clustering may, at times, affect aircraft icing by introducing important fluctuations in the concentration of supercooled cloud water sufficient to alter the density of the ice collected, and hence, the aerodynamics of the wing (lift).

Yet, the intensity of clustering in clouds is spatially and temporally variable and not easy to measure. What few observations there are have been restricted to one-dimensional aircraft measurements sampling very tiny volumes. It would be useful to have a method for measuring clustering over an area and to identify regions of significant clustering that aircraft should avoid during icing conditions, for example.

A radar technique based upon a scanning procedure that uses non-Rayleigh signal statistics for quantifying clustering intensity in clouds is proposed. Such observations may enhance the safety of aircraft flying in icing conditions and may elucidate the spatial organization of clustering in clouds. Such measurements appear to be within current technological capabilities.
A Fanonian Perspective on Double Consciousness
Authors: Moore T. Owens
Published: May 2005

This study examines the historical parallel between the intellectual work of W.E.B. Du Bois and Frantz Fanon. In 1903, Du Bois coined a term called “double consciousness” to explain the thought process of being both a Negro (i.e., Black) and an American (i.e., non-Black) in the United States. Fifty years later, Fanon wrote a detailed analysis of a similar theme in a book called Black Skin, White Masks. From two different eras, these two scholars/activists provided valuable information on the mental conflict associated with having a dual identity. To provide the basis for finding solutions to the many social crises experienced within the Black community, a Fanonian perspective on double consciousness will be discussed. In conclusion, a recommendation will be put forth to focus on a single-minded consciousness to rescue, to reconstruct, and to revitalize the minds of those who have been miseducated.
Cultural Oppression and the High-Risk Status of African Americans
Authors: Schiele Jerome H.
Published: May 2005

One of the persistent and perennial challenges faced by African Americans is that of cultural oppression. Although the effects of oppression on African Americans have received enormous attention, much of the focus has been on political and economic oppression as the primary sources of the social problems that African Americans confront. Less emphasis has been placed on connecting political and economic oppression to cultural oppression and on viewing cultural oppression as foundational in explaining the high societal vulnerability of African Americans. This article identifies and examines how cultural oppression has produced three risk factors—(a) cultural estrangement, (b) attenuation of Black collectivism, and (c) spiritual alien-ation—that diminish African Americans’ ability to advance and prosper in the United States. Separately and collectively, these factors place African Americans at high risk of experiencing continued obstacles toward group affirmation and empowerment.
Africa And U.S. Foreign Policy
Authors: Gramby-Sobukwe Sharon
Published: May 2005

This article is an assessment of the role of African Americans in effecting democratic African politics and leadership. Assessments of African development provide the basis for explaining African contemporary leadership challenges and a survey of U.S. foreign policy toward Africa is used to evaluate the domestic political environment that elicited African Americans’ political activism on behalf of Africa. Two historic case studies, of Italy’s invasion of Ethiopia in 1935 and the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa during the 1980s, are used to identify, characterize, and assess African Americans’ political influence on African development and leadership. The article assesses the means, motivation, and impact of African American political activity on behalf of Africa to explain how democratic movements may improve African leadership. The article concludes that African Americans most effectively contribute to democratic development in Africa when they interact directly with African social and political organizations to encourage responsive, effective leadership.
Meeting Rehabilitative Needs at a Canadian Women’s Correctional Centre
Authors: Monster Miranda , Micucci Anthony
Published: May 2005

This article examines the major criminogenic needs (education, vocational development, substance abuse education, financial planning, and sex offense remediation) and noncriminogenic needs (health care, family connections, and safety) of women incarcerated at a Canadian medium-security women’s correctional institution. A total of 27 respondents, including inmates, correctional officers, treatment providers, and administrators, were interviewed between April and June 1999. Gaps are identified between inmates’ treatment needs and the degree to which programs and services are delivered. The article concludes with a discussion of existing problems and the potential for improving initiatives aimed at effective rehabilitation for female offenders.
What Influences Offenders’ Willingness to Serve Alternative Sanctions?
Authors: May David C. , Wood Peter B.
Published: May 2005

Previous research has revealed gender and racial differences in offenders’ perceptions of the severity of prison compared to alternative sanctions. This research extends that literature by examining the relative impact of demographic, correctional experience, and attitudinal indicators on the amount of probation, community service, and boot camp that male and female prison inmates will endure to avoid 1 year of actual imprisonment. Results highlight differences in perceptions of the relative severity of alternative sanctions among prisoners and identify factors that contribute to these differences. Implications for correctional policy and practice are discussed.
Financial Management and Job Social Skills Training Components in a Summer Business Institute
Authors: Donohue Brad , Conway Debbie , Beisecker Monica , Murphy Heather , Farley Alisha , Waite Melissa , Gugino Kristin , Knatz Danielle , Lopez-Frank Carolina , Burns Jack , Madison Suzanne , Shorty Carrie
Published: May 2005

Ninety-two adolescents, predominantly ethnic minority high school students, participated in a structured Summer Business Institute (SBI). Participating youth were randomly assigned to receive either job social skills or financial management skills training components. Students who additionally received the job social skills training component were more likely to recommend their employment agency to others than were youth who received the financial management component, rated their overall on-the-job work experience more favorably, and demonstrated higher scores in areas that were relevant to the skills that were taught in the job social skills workshops. The financial management component also appeared to be relatively effective, as youth who received this intervention improved their knowledge of financial management issues more than youth who received job social skills, and rated their workshops as more helpful in financial management, as well as insurance management. Future directions are discussed in light of these results.
The Effect of Layoffs on Firm Reputation
Authors: Flanagan David J. , O’Shaughnessy K. C.
Published: May 2005

A firm’s reputation is perhaps one of its most important strategic resources. Using data from Fortune’s America’s Most Admired Companies survey, this article examines how layoffs affect the reputations of firms. The authors found that layoffs have a negative impact on a firm’s reputation and that this relationship is significantly stronger for newer firms than older firms. Limited support is found for the hypothesis that larger firms’ reputations will be buffered from the adverse effects of a layoff on their reputations. Implications of this research and future research questions are discussed.
The Impact of Sexual Assault History and Relationship Context on Appraisal of and Responses to Acquaintance Sexual Assault Risk
Authors: Vanzile-Tamsen Carol , Testa Maria , Livingston Jennifer A.
Published: May 2005

Although a major predictor of sexual victimization is previous victimization, the mechanism underlying this effect is not well understood. Sexual assault history’s impact on appraisal of and responses to sexual assault risk was examined in an experimental analog study. Intimacy with perpetrator was also examined as a potential contributor to appraisal and responses. Young women varying in sexual assault history were randomly assigned to receive a scenario in which type of perpetrator was manipulated (someone just met, friend, date, boyfriend). Respondents appraised the man’s actions as sexual interest or assault and indicated intentions to respond (resistance and nonresistance). Sexual assault history did not directly influence appraisal or intended responses but had modest indirect effects on resistance via sexual assertiveness. The primary influence on appraisal and responses was perpetrator intimacy. Women facing advances within a more intimate relationship were less likely to appraise those advances as threatening and less likely to resist.
Internet Offenders
Authors: Alexy Eileen M. , Burgess Ann W. , Baker Timothy
Published: May 2005

The Internet opens a vast array of communication, entertainment, and educational resources for children; however, it also opens a gateway to home and school for offenders who wish to exploit children. A convenience sample of 225 cases published in the news media was examined. The cases were classified using law enforcement terminology to describe Internet offenders as traders, travelers, or combination trader-travelers. The media is seen as a critical source of information for the public to be aware of how the Internet is being used to commit sexual exploitation and sex crimes against children.
The Involvement in Sexual Coercive Behaviors of Spanish College Men
Authors: Martín Antonio Fuertes , Vergeles Maribel Ramos , Acevedo Victoria De La Orden , Sánchez Amaia Del Campo , Visa Susana Lázaro
Published: May 2005

This study aimed to know the prevalence of sexual coercion toward women perpetrated by acquaintance Spanish college men, and some personal factors associated with the involvement in these behaviors to replicate the confluence model. An anonymous questionnaire was completed by 196 university students that included an adaptation of the Sexual Experiences Survey, and other scales to assess different attitudes, motives, and experiences associated with sexual aggression. About 15% of men admitted some involvement in sexual behaviors when the woman did not want it. The control and dominance needs, the personal disposition to impersonal sex, and empathy competency showed the strongest association with the involvement in coercive sexual behaviors. Empathy moderated the effects of control and domination needs and the impersonal sex in predicting sexual coercion. Overall, our data supports the confluence model.
The Experience of Sexual Assault
Authors: Monroe Laura M. , Kinney Linda M. , Weist Mark D. , Dafeamekpor Denise Spriggs , Dantzler Joyce , Reynolds Matthew W.
Published: May 2005

A statewide assessment was conducted of assaults, experiences, needs, and recommendations of 125 adult victims receiving care at 19 sexual assault centers (SACs) in the State of Maryland. More than one half of the victims (55.6%) waited years before disclosing, with delays in reporting especially likely if the assault was perpetrated by a family member (the most frequent perpetrators at 42.4% of respondents). About one half of the victims (51.3%) had been previously sexually assaulted, yet only 9% of these victims had sought treatment. The majority of respondents (69.4%) indicated they would not be filing charges against perpetrators, and of those who did, 46.2% reported dissatisfaction with the interview with police. Psychological symptoms such as depression and anxiety were the most common reasons for seeking care at the centers. Nearly all of respondents rated the care they received at the centers as very good or excellent. Respondents recommended more SACs, better advertising of their services, more mental health care within them (especially group therapy), and improved laws and law enforcement of perpetrators.