bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vapor phase polymerization of 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene on flexible substrate and its application on heat generation
Authors: Yang Xiaoming , Shang Songmin , Li Liang , Tao Xiao‐Ming , Yan Feng
Published: November 2009

An oxidative chemical vapor phase polymerization process is applied to coat flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabrics with a uniform poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) film. This vapor phase polymerization method is a solventfree technique, which could yield a low resistance in the PEDOT‐coated PET fabric. The resistance as low as 52 Ω square−1 is achieved. The polymerization conditions, such as the concentration of oxidant, reaction time, and temperature, have been systematically investigated. The coated fabric samples exhibit an increase in temperature when subjected to a fixed DC voltage. This result indicates a potential application of these PEDOT‐coated fabrics as electric heating materials. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genetics and development of neural tube defects
Authors: Copp Andrew J , Greene Nicholas DE
Published: November 2009

Congenital defects of neural tube closure (neural tube defects; NTDs) are among the commonest and most severe disorders of the fetus and newborn. Disturbance of any of the sequential events of embryonic neurulation produce NTDs, with the phenotype (eg anencephaly, spina bifida) varying depending on the region of neural tube that remains open. While mutation of > 200 genes is known to cause NTDs in mice, the pattern of occurrence in humans suggests a multifactorial polygenic or oligogenic aetiology. This emphasizes the importance of gene–gene and gene–environment interactions in the origins of these defects. A number of cell biological functions are essential for neural tube closure, with defects of the cytoskeleton, cell cycle and molecular regulation of cell viability prominent among the mouse NTD mutants. Many transcriptional regulators and proteins that affect chromatin structure are also required for neural tube closure, although the downstream molecular pathways regulated by these proteins is unknown. Some key signalling pathways for NTDs have been identified: over‐activation of sonic hedgehog signalling and loss of function in the planar cell polarity (non‐canonical Wnt) pathway are potent causes of NTD, with requirements also for retinoid and inositol signalling. Folic acid supplementation is an effective method for primary prevention of a proportion of NTDs in both humans and mice, although the embryonic mechanism of folate action remains unclear. Folic acid‐resistant cases can be prevented by inositol supplementation in mice, raising the possibility that this could lead to an additional preventive strategy for human NTDs in future. Copyright © 2009 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The pathobiology of splicing
Authors: Ward Amanda J , Cooper Thomas A
Published: November 2009

Ninety‐four percent of human genes are discontinuous, such that segments expressed as mRNA are contained within exons and separated by intervening segments, called introns. Following transcription, genes are expressed as precursor mRNAs (pre‐mRNAs), which are spliced co‐transcriptionally, and the flanking exons are joined together to form a continuous mRNA. One advantage of this architecture is that it allows alternative splicing by differential use of exons to generate multiple mRNAs from individual genes. Regulatory elements located within introns and exons guide the splicing complex, the spliceosome, and auxiliary RNA binding proteins to the correct sites for intron removal and exon joining. Misregulation of splicing and alternative splicing can result from mutations in cis‐regulatory elements within the affected gene or from mutations that affect the activities of trans‐acting factors that are components of the splicing machinery. Mutations that affect splicing can cause disease directly or contribute to the susceptibility or severity of disease. An understanding of the role of splicing in disease expands potential opportunities for therapeutic intervention by either directly addressing the cause or by providing novel approaches to circumvent disease processes. Copyright © 2009 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conformational analysis and inversion process in some perhydrodipyrido[1,2‐b;1′2′‐e]‐1,4,2,5‐ dioxadiazines
Authors: Ali Shaikh A. , AlSbaiee Alaaeddin , Wazeer Mohamed I. M.
Published: November 2009

The stereoselectivity in the cyclodimerization of several six‐membered cyclic nitrones has been investigated. The configurational/conformational analysis of the dimers (i.e. perhydrodipyrido[1,2‐b;1′2′‐e]‐1,4,2,5‐dioxadiazines) has been carried out by NMR spectroscopy. The NMR spectra of the dimers at lower temperatures indicated the presence of either a single or two invertomer(s). The nitrogen inversion barriers are determined using complete line–shape analysis. The invertomer ratios have been used to estimate the relative energies associated with the cis and trans ring fusion in these tricycles. A mechanistic rationale for the observed stereochemistry of the dimerization process has been presented. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of solvent on theorthosubstituent effect in the alkaline hydrolysis of phenyl esters of substituted benzoic acids
Authors: Nummert Vilve , Piirsalu Mare , Koppel Ilmar A.
Published: November 2009

The second‐order rate constantsk(dm3 mol−1 s−1) for the alkaline hydrolysis of phenyl esters ofmeta‐,para‐ andortho‐substituted benzoic acids in aqueous 5.3 M NaClO4and 1.0 M Bu4NBr were measured by UV/Vis spectrophotometry at 25 °C. The variations in theorthoinductive,orthoresonance, as well asmetaandparapolar effects with solvent parameters were studied using data for the alkaline hydrolysis of phenyl esters of substituted benzoic acids in various media. The dependence of theorthosubstituent effect on solvent can be precisely described with the following equation: Δlogkortho = logkortho − logkH = 0.059 + 2.19σI + 0.304σ°R + 2.79E − 0.016ΔEσI − 0.085ΔEσ°R, where ΔEis the solvent electrophilicity, ΔE = ES − EH2O, characterizing the hydrogen‐bond donating power of the solvent. The increase in themetaandparapolar substituent effects with decrease in the solvent hydrogen‐bond donor capacity (electrophilicity) was approximately to the same extent (−0.068ΔEσ°m,p) as the resonance term for theorthosubstituents. The steric term oforthosubstituents was independent of the solvent parameters. The variations in theorthoinductive,orthoresonance, as well asmetaandparapolar substituent effects with the solvent electrophilicity were to the same extent as in phenyl benzoates containing the substituents in the phenyl part. The substituent effects in the alkaline hydrolysis of ethyl benzoates appeared to vary with the solvent electrophilicity nearly to the same extent as in the alkaline hydrolysis of substituted phenyl esters of benzoic acids. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spirituality and well‐being in cancer patients: a review
Authors: Visser Anja , Garssen Bert , Vingerhoets Ad
Published: November 2009

Objective: Cancer places many demands on the patient and threatens the person's sense of meaning to life. It has been shown that cancer patients use their spirituality to cope with these experiences. The present literature review summarizes the research findings on the relationship between spirituality and emotional well‐being. Special attention is given to the strength of the research findings.

Methods: A literature search was performed in Pubmed and Web of Science. Spirituality does not necessarily coincide with religiosity. Therefore, studies were excluded that focused on religiosity. Forty publications met the inclusion criteria: Twenty‐seven studies that investigated the relationship between spirituality and well‐being, and 13 publications that explored the relationship between meaning in life and well‐being.

Results: The majority of the cross‐sectional studies (31 of 36) found a positive association between spirituality and well‐being. The four studies with a longitudinal design showed mixed results. The significance of the findings is challenged, because most spirituality questionnaires contain several items that directly refer to emotional well‐being.

Conclusions: Despite that the majority of the studies concluded that spirituality was associated with higher well‐being, no definitive conclusions on this relationship can be drawn due to major methodological shortcomings of these studies. Longitudinal research utilizing spirituality and well‐being measures that do not overlap in content is recommended. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Videotaped simulated interviews to improve medical students' skills in disclosing a diagnosis of cancer
Authors: Bonnaud‐Antignac Angélique , Campion Loïc , Pottier Pierre , Supiot Stéphane
Published: November 2009

Objective: To assess the performance of the training course on the disclosure of a diagnosis of cancer intended for fifth year medical students of the University of Nantes.

Methods: The course comprised three sessions: (1) a group discussion that taught a six‐point protocol (SPIKES) for delivering a diagnosis, (2) a videotaped simulated interview to assess protocol implementation and communication skills, and (3) feedback from a senior physician. The learning objectives were memorisation and implementation of the protocol, use of appropriate communication techniques to deal with the patient's response, and identifying one's own reactions in a stressful situation. Two types of assessments were performed before and after each session: self‐assessments by the students and a quantitative and qualitative external assessment by a psychologist and senior physician. In addition, recall of the six‐point protocol was assessed during the end‐of‐the‐year examination.

Results: Overall, 108 students took part in the course during the 2004–2005 academic year. They felt that their competence improved after each session in terms of the three learning objectives. However, recall of the six‐point protocol was inadequate. It was best among students who considered they had progressed most.

Conclusions: Our training course on communication techniques helps students acquire confidence in their skills in breaking bad news by backing theory with practice and feedback. The students make progress despite the psychological stress generated by simulated real‐life conditions. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coordination sphere of the third metal site is essential to the activity and metal selectivity of alkaline phosphatases
Authors: Koutsioulis Dimitris , Lyskowski Andrzej , Mäki Seija , Guthrie Ellen , Feller Georges , Bouriotis Vassilis , Heikinheimo Pirkko
Published: November 2009

Alkaline phosphatases (APs) are commercially applied enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of phosphate monoesters by a reaction involving three active site metal ions. We have previously identified H135 as the key residue for controlling activity of the psychrophilic TAB5 AP (TAP). In this article, we describe three X‐ray crystallographic structures on TAP variants H135E and H135D in complex with a variety of metal ions. The structural analysis is supported by thermodynamic and kinetic data. The AP catalysis essentially requires octahedral coordination in the M3 site, but stability is adjusted with the conformational freedom of the metal ion. Comparison with the mesophilic Escherichia coli, AP shows differences in the charge transfer network in providing the chemically optimal metal combination for catalysis. Our results provide explanation why the TAB5 and E. coli APs respond in an opposite way to mutagenesis in their active sites. They provide a lesson on chemical fine tuning and the importance of the second coordination sphere in defining metal specificity in enzymes. Understanding the framework of AP catalysis is essential in the efforts to design even more powerful tools for modern biotechnology.
The importance of valine 114 in ligand binding in β2‐adrenergic receptor
Authors: Arakawa Makoto , Yanamala Naveena , Upadhyaya Jasbir , Halayko Andrew , Klein‐Seetharaman Judith , Chelikani Prashen
Published: November 2009

G‐protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are transmembrane signaling molecules, with a majority of them performing important physiological roles. β2‐Adrenergic receptor (β2‐AR) is a well‐studied GPCRs that mediates natural responses to the hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline. Analysis of the ligand‐binding region of β2‐AR using the recently solved high‐resolution crystal structures revealed a number of highly conserved amino acids that might be involved in ligand binding. However, detailed structure‐function studies on some of these residues have not been performed, and their role in ligand binding remains to be elucidated. In this study, we have investigated the structural and functional role of a highly conserved residue valine 114, in hamster β2‐AR by site‐directed mutagenesis. We replaced V114 in hamster β2‐AR with a number of amino acid residues carrying different functional groups. In addition to the complementary substitutions V114I and V114L, the V114C and V114E mutants also showed significant ligand binding and agonist dependent G‐protein activation. However, the V114G, V114T, V114S, and V114W mutants failed to bind ligand in a specific manner. Molecular modeling studies were conducted to interpret these results in structural terms. We propose that the replacement of V114 influences not only the interaction of the ethanolamine side‐chains but also the aryl‐ring of the ligands tested. Results from this study show that the size and orientation of the hydrophobic residue at position V114 in β2‐AR affect binding of both agonists and antagonists, but it does not influence the receptor expression or folding.
Novel localization of low affinity NGF receptor (p75) in the stroma of prostate cancer and possible implication in neoplastic invasion: An immunohistochemical and ultracytochemical study
Authors: Rende Mario , Rambotti Maria G. , Stabile Anna M. , Pistilli Alessandra , Montagnoli Claudia , Chiarelli Maria T. , Mearini Ettore
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND

The localization of low affinity nerve growth factor receptor (p75) in prostate carcinogenesis is still unclear. Our aim was to reinvestigate the localization of p75 in normal and pathological prostate and to check a possible correlation to neoplastic grading.

METHODS

Specimens from 33 prostate cancers and from normal prostatic tissue were analyzed for p75 expression at light and ultrastructural levels.

RESULTS

In normal tissue p75‐immunoreactivity was restricted to basal cells in the epithelial compartment and to nerves and blood vessel in stroma. During carcinogenesis, p75‐immunoreactivity progressively decreased at the periphery of the foci according to the increase in malignancy. No p75‐immunoreactivity was detected inside of the foci. On the contrary, in stroma we found a dramatic increase in p75‐immunoreactivity correlated to an increase in malignancy. In this compartment, for the first time ultrastructural analysis identified p75‐immunoreactivity in smooth muscle cells (SMC) that are p75‐negative in normal conditions.

CONCLUSION

The present study confirms at ultrastructural level a malignant‐dependent p75 decrease in basal cells of neoplastic foci. Furthermore, we show a novel, malignant‐dependent localization of p75 in SMC in the stroma around the neoplastic foci. Since p75 expression is present in muscle cells only during the earliest stages of differentiation and mature muscle cells lose this expression, we hypothesize that p75 re‐expression in stromal SMC is a further mechanism related to the general de‐differentiation of the stroma connected to the neoplastic invasion. According to this hypothesis, our results suggest that p75 analysis could be a novel prognostic marker for prostate cancer. Prostate 70: 555–561, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Capturing Dynamic Processes of Change in GROW Mutual Help Groups for Mental Health
Authors: Finn Lizzie D. , Bishop Brian J. , Sparrow Neville
Published: November 2009

The need for a model that can portray dynamic processes of change in mutual help groups for mental health (MHGMHs) is emphasized. A dynamic process model has the potential to capture a more comprehensive understanding of how MHGMHs may assist their members. An investigation into GROW, a mutual help organization for mental health, employed ethnographic, phenomenological and collaborative research methods. The study examined how GROW impacts on psychological well being. Study outcomes aligned with the social ecological paradigm (Maton in Understanding the self‐help organization: frameworks and findings. Sage, Thousand Oaks 1994) indicating multifactorial processes of change at and across three levels of analysis: group level, GROW program/community level and individual level. Outcome themes related to life skills acquisition and a change in self‐perception in terms of belonging within community and an increased sense of personal value. The GROW findings are used to assist development of a dynamic multi‐dimensional process model to explain how MHGMHs may promote positive change.
Is ultrasound screening for DDH in babies born breech sufficient?
Authors: Imrie Meghan , Scott Vanessa , Stearns Philip , Bastrom Tracey , Mubarak Scott J.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

To review our incidence of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in breech infants referred for ultrasound screening and to determine if subsequent follow-up radiographs are necessary in these patients with normal clinical and ultrasound examinations.

Methods

A review of the clinical data and imaging studies of all children with the risk factor of breech presentation that were referred for orthopedic evaluation over a 5-year period was conducted. All patients were examined by a fellowship-trained pediatric orthopedic surgeon and all ultrasounds were done at approximately 6 weeks of age by an experienced ultrasonographer. Ultrasounds were evaluated using the dynamic method as described by Harcke. As per our protocol, all patients with normal screening ultrasounds were brought back for a final clinical examination and radiographic check at 4–6 months. Acetabular dysplasia was indicated by radiographic parameters—if there was severe blunting of the sourcil, abnormal acetabular index for age, or if there was significant asymmetry of acetabular indices side-to-side—in the setting of clinical parameters—if there was greater than 10° difference in side-to-side abduction or symmetric abduction of less than 60°.

Results

Three hundred patients with the risk factor of breech presentation were included. Thirty-four patients had clinically unstable hips; 266 had clinically stable hips and were screened by ultrasound. Sixty-four percent were female and 36% were male. Twenty-seven percent of these breech patients had abnormal screening ultrasounds and were subsequently treated. Of the remaining 73% with normal ultrasounds, who were returned per protocol at a mean of 5 months, 29% had evidence of dysplasia and underwent treatment. The diagnosis of dysplasia following a normal ultrasound was based on both radiographic and clinical parameters. Of the hips treated with a Pavlik harness, 62% had acetabular indices at least two standard deviations from the age-corrected average versus 26% of patients not treated. The average length of follow-up was 10 months.

Conclusions

Retrospectively, we found that, at approximately 6 weeks of age, ultrasound screening of breech patients with clinically stable hips produces an incidence of DDH of 27%. In those patients with a normal ultrasound, 29%, at 4–6 months radiographic follow-up, were found to have dysplasia requiring treatment. This data supports breech as the most important risk factor for hip dysplasia and we, therefore, recommend careful and longitudinal evaluation of these patients with: a careful newborn physical examination, an ultrasound at age 6 weeks, and an anteroposterior (AP) pelvis and frog lateral radiograph at 6 months, as the risk of subsequent dysplasia is too high to discharge patients after a normal ultrasound.
The break—not only for Germans—of the year 1989
Authors: Crawford Claudia
Published: November 2009

The article discusses the continuing legacy of 1989 on the operations of the EU today. The author contends that the withdrawal of the state from the private lives of citizens means that citizens must take responsibility for their own lives. Economic and social inequality are a reality for countries in transition, and it is crucial that efforts to achieve stability remain the responsibility of European citizens, that they not rely solely on the EU or on Member State governments for support. If they do, the lessons learned from 1989 are being ignored.
How 1989 changed the history of European integration
Authors: Smith Julie
Published: November 2009

The collapse of communism in Europe from 1989 onwards led to profound changes not just in those Central and East European states that cast of communism, but right across the continent. This article assesses the impact of these changes on the process of integration, analysing how the prospect of German unification affected attitudes among allies and contributed to moves that led to the Treaty on the European Union. It then looks at how the demands of the Central and Eastern European countries (CEE) led to pressures to enlarge, which necessitated controversial treaty reform.
Is it in the EU's interest to enlarge further? The case of Turkey
Authors: Aktar Cengiz
Published: November 2009

Turkey has been an official candidate for accession to the European Union since 1999, when accession talks began under the new rules of the enlargement policy. Since then Turkey's candidacy has been stalled as a result of ‘enlargement fatigue’ and the evolving EU political scenario, in which membership largely depends on successful institutional reform. This article analyses the strengths and weaknesses of Turkey's candidacy.
The European People's Party and the Party of European Socialists: Government and Opposition?
Authors: Gagatek Wojciech
Published: November 2009

Since the introduction of direct elections for the European Parliament, the politics of this institution have presented a very low degree of adversarial confrontations amongst the two major European parties, the EPP and the PES. In the last round of elections, however, there have been signs of substantial change in direction of a more direct electoral confrontation between the PES and the EPP. According to the author, both the party manifestos and the strong political activity that preceded the nomination of the new President of the Commission signal the emergence of a sui-generis government-opposition relation between the two major parties in the European Parliament. This, still far from resembling the spirit of national politics, may represent the beginning of a new and more dynamic political confrontation around the European institutions.
Brief report: The association between non‐suicidal self‐injury, self‐concept and acquaintance with self‐injurious peers in a sample of adolescents
Authors: Claes Laurence , Houben Adinda , Vandereycken Walter , Bijttebier Patricia , Muehlenkamp Jennifer
Published: November 2009

The current study investigated the association between non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI), self‐concept and acquaintance with NSSI peers in a sample of 150 high school students (60% female) with a mean age of 15.56 (SD = 2.00) years. Analyses showed that students with NSSI rated themselves lower on academic intelligence, physical attractiveness, social skills and emotional stability than their non‐NSSI peers. The self‐injurers also had more friends who engaged in NSSI, and having more NSSI acquaintances was negatively related to self‐esteem. It could be that adolescents with lower self‐esteem are more attracted to self‐injuring peers, or that adolescents with low self‐esteem are more vulnerable to copy NSSI to deal with their problems or to gain a certain identity in their peer group. Future studies must test these possible NSSI pathways.
A genomics method to identify pathogenicity‐related proteins. Application to aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetase‐like proteins
Authors: Novoa Eva Maria , Castro de Moura Manuel , Orozco Modesto , Ribas de Pouplana Lluís
Published: November 2009

During their extended evolution genes coding for aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetases (ARS) have experienced numerous instances of duplication, insertion and deletion of domains. The ARS‐related proteins that have resulted from these genetic events are generally known as aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetase‐like proteins (ARS‐like). This heterogeneous group of polypeptides carries out an equally varied number of functions that need not be related to gene translation. Several of these proteins remain uncharacterized. At least 16 different ARS‐like proteins have been identified to date, but their functions remain incompletely understood. Here we review the individual phylogenetic distribution of these proteins in bacteria, and apply a new genomics method to determine their potential implication in pathogenicity.
Fine tuning of cell functions through remodeling of glycosphingolipids by plasma membrane‐associated glycohydrolases
Authors: Sonnino Sandro , Aureli Massimo , Loberto Nicoletta , Chigorno Vanna , Prinetti Alessandro
Published: November 2009

The plasma membrane (PM) sphingolipid composition is the result of a series of well‐known metabolic pathways comprising neobiosynthesis in the endoplasmic reticulum and in the Golgi apparatus followed by vesicular delivery to the plasma membrane, membrane turnover with final catabolism in lysosomes, and shedding of membrane components. In addition to this, the head group of PM sphingolipids can be opportunely modified by the action of PM associated hydrolases and transferases. The number of enzymes for glycosphingolipid metabolism that have been shown to be associated with the plasma membrane and the information on their properties are growing very rapidly. In this review, we will focus on the possible role and on the involvement of the plasma membrane‐associated glycohydrolases in modulating cell functions.
A unifying view of 21st century systems biology
Authors: Vidal Marc
Published: November 2009

The idea that multi‐scale dynamic complex systems formed by interacting macromolecules and metabolites, cells, organs and organisms underlie some of the most fundamental aspects of life was proposed by a few visionaries half a century ago. We are witnessing a powerful resurgence of this idea made possible by the availability of nearly complete genome sequences, ever improving gene annotations and interactome network maps, the development of sophisticated informatic and imaging tools, and importantly, the use of engineering and physics concepts such as control and graph theory. Alongside four other fundamental “great ideas” as suggested by Sir Paul Nurse, namely, the gene, the cell, the role of chemistry in biological processes, and evolution by natural selection, systems‐level understanding of “What is Life” may materialize as one of the major ideas of biology.
The last interglacial sea-level high stand on the southern Cape coastline of South Africa
Authors: Carr Andrew S. , Bateman Mark D. , Roberts David L. , Murray-Wallace Colin V. , Jacobs Zenobia , Holmes Peter J.
Published: November 2009

The continental margin of southern South Africa exhibits an array of emergent marginal marine sediments permitting the reconstruction of long-term eustatic sea-level changes. We report a suite of optical luminescence ages and supplementary amino acid racemization data, which provide paleosea-level index points for three sites on this coastline. Deposits in the Swartvlei and Groot Brak estuaries display tidal inlet facies overlain by shoreface or eolian facies. Contemporary facies relations suggest a probable high stand 6.0-8.5 m above modern sea level (amsl). At Cape Agulhas, evidence of a past sea-level high stand comprises a gravel beach (ca. 3.8 m amsl) and an overlying sandy shoreface facies (up to 7.5 m amsl). OSL ages between 138±7 ka and 118±7 ka confirm a last interglacial age for all marginal marine facies. The high stand was followed by a sea-level regression that was associated with the accumulation of eolian dunes dating to between 122±7 ka and 113±6 ka. These data provide the first rigorous numerical age constraints for last interglacial sea-level fluctuations in this region, revealing the timing and elevation of the last interglacial high stand to broadly mirror a number of other far-field locations.
A chain morphism for Adams operations on rational algebraic K-theory
Authors: Feliu Elisenda
Published: November 2009

For any regular noetherian scheme X and every k ≥ 1, we define a chain morphism ψk between two chain complexes whose homology with rational coefficients is isomorphic to the algebraic K-groups of X tensored by ℚ. It is shown that the morphisms ψk induce in homology the Adams operations defined by Gillet and Soulé or the ones defined by Grayson.
Interpretation of Late Ordovician glaciogenic reservoirs from 3-D seismic data: an example from the Murzuq Basin, Libya
Authors: LE HERON DANIEL PAUL
Published: November 2009

Understanding the recessional behaviour of ancient pre-Cenozoic ice sheets based on seismic reflection studies is generally difficult through scarcity of data. In North Africa, however, hydrocarbon exploration has produced high quality seismic reflection datasets that permit an analysis of the morphology and internal sedimentary architecture of incisions of Late Ordovician age related to the Hirnantian glaciation. Analysis of a high-resolution 3-D seismic dataset covering a small area in western Libya (the N Murzuq Basin) reveals a sharply defined, WNW–ESE-oriented palaeo-escarpment, with a higher (cliff-forming) western margin and a lower (basin-forming) eastern margin. The palaeo-escarpment defines the western flank of a sub-basin extending up to 60 km in width, known as the Awbari Trough. The escarpment and the trough are interpreted as the morphological expression of a major unconformity dividing pre-glacial sediments below from Late Ordovician (?Hirnantian) glacially related sediments above. Two hypotheses are considered for the origins of both the escarpment and the Awbari Trough: (1) as a tectonic feature such as a half graben that was active during sedimentation and (2) a glacially related palaeotopography, with the latter interpretation preferred, owing to the lack of evidence for syn-sedimentary fault activity. The width of the Awbari Trough compares to the large-scale cross-shelf troughs in modern high latitude settings, such as the Barents Shelf, produced by ice streams. The Awbari Trough was progressively filled in by gravity flow deposits throughout the course of the glaciation, until the initial incision became filled in with sediments during an overall glacial retreat phase and ceased to influence sedimentation patterns. Glacial re-advance across the basin produced a second unconformity observed in seismic data. Above this unconformity, meltwater processes incised a shallow (~ 20 m) and wide (~ 5 km) subglacial tunnel valley. Stabilization of the ice front prior to its ultimate retreat resulted in the deposition of a delta complex prior to the Early Silurian transgression.
Steep capillary-gravity waves in oscillatory shear-driven flows
Authors: JALIKOP SHREYAS V. , JUEL ANNE
Published: November 2009

We study steep capillary-gravity waves that form at the interface between two stably stratified layers of immiscible liquids in a horizontally oscillating vessel. The oscillatory nature of the external forcing prevents the waves from overturning, and thus enables the development of steep waves at large forcing. They arise through a supercritical pitchfork bifurcation, characterized by the square root dependence of the height of the wave on the excess vibrational Froude number (W, square root of the ratio of vibrational to gravitational forces). At a critical valueWc, a transition to a linear variation inWis observed. It is accompanied by sharp qualitative changes in the harmonic content of the wave shape, so that trochoidal waves characterize the weakly nonlinear regime, but ‘finger’-like waves form forW≥Wc. In this strongly nonlinear regime, the wavelength is a function of the product of amplitude and frequency of forcing, whereas forW<Wc, the wavelength exhibits an explicit dependence on the frequency of forcing that is due to the effect of viscosity. Most significantly, the radius of curvature of the wave crests decreases monotonically withWto reach the capillary length forW=Wc, i.e. the lengthscale for which surface tension forces balance gravitational forces. ForW<Wc, gravitational restoring forces dominate, but forW≥Wc, the wave development is increasingly defined by localized surface tension effects.
Regulatory compliance in Lake Victoria fisheries
Authors: EGGERT HÅKAN , LOKINA RAZACK B.
Published: November 2009

This paper analyzes the causes for regulatory compliance, using traditional deterrence variables and potential moral and social variables. We use self-reported data from 459 Tanzanian artisanal fishers in Lake Victoria. The results indicate that the decision to be either a non-violator or a violator, as well as the violation rate – if the latter – are influenced by changes in deterrence variables like the probability of detection and punishment and also by legitimacy and social variables. We also identify a small group of fishers who react neither to normative aspects nor to traditional deterrence variables but persistently violate the regulation.
When boundaries are crossed: Evaluating language attrition data from two perspectives
Authors: SCHMITT ELENA
Published: November 2009

This study provides an account for a long-term selective loss of L1 (Russian) morpho-syntactic and content components in early immigrants to the U.S. The analysis of naturally occurring data is carried out from the perspective of two theoretical approaches – three models developed within language contact (Myers-Scotton 2002, 2005) and the Activation Threshold hypothesis as a component of a neurolinguistic approach to bilingualism (Paradis, 2004, 2007). The results show that the language contact approach is useful in identifying morpheme types that are most vulnerable to attrition. The second approach helps explain the differential rate of loss of content morphemes in a variety of topics and account for variability in the rate of attrition of late system morphemes through frequency factors. The study demonstrates that by crossing the boundaries of one theory and one view of language researchers can achieve a stronger explanatory power and identify the common and complementary features that both models provide.
Role of simulated GOSAT total column CO2 observations in surface CO2 flux uncertainty reduction
Authors: Kadygrov Nikolay , Maksyutov Shamil , Eguchi Nawo , Aoki Tadao , Nakazawa Takakiyo , Yokota Tatsuya , Inoue Gen
Published: November 2009

We investigated the utility of Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT) column CO2 observations in surface CO2 flux estimation. We addressed two key issues in carbon flux estimation from satellite data: (1) reduction of the CO2 flux uncertainty and (2) bias in the constrained surface fluxes. Our results showed that GOSAT data with 1.7 ppm precision (monthly mean, land observation only) had the same utility as observational data from the existing surface network. By adding satellite observations with 2.5 ppm single‐shot random error and a bias of 1 ppm, it was possible to reduce the mean regional flux uncertainty by approximately 30%. Unbiased data with 2.5 ppm single‐shot precision (0.8 ppm for the monthly mean) halved the flux uncertainty. The aerosol‐dependent bias in satellite data with 1 ppm mean variance led to significant absolute errors in the surface CO2 fluxes, highlighting a need for the accurate detection and rejection of biased data.
Rheological controls on the terrestrial core formation mechanism
Authors: Golabek G. J. , Gerya T. V. , Kaus B. J. P. , Ziethe R. , Tackley P. J.
Published: November 2009

Iron core differentiation of terrestrial planetary bodies is thought to have occurred simultaneously with planetary accretion. The exact mechanisms of core formation, however, remain incompletely understood. One model proposes that cores are formed from numerous smaller iron cores from predifferentiated planetesimals. To further understand this mechanism for forming Mars‐ and Earth‐sized bodies, we present here systematic numerical simulations. Our models include a non‐Newtonian temperature‐, pressure‐ and strain rate–dependent viscoplastic rheology. Four different core formation regimes are being observed in the study, as a function of activation volume, friction angle, Peierls stress, and the initial temperature state of the body. We derive scaling laws, which show the importance of shear heating localization and plastic yielding as mechanisms to drive planetary differentiation in planetary interiors, that are in good agreement with numerical simulations. Results indicate that the effective rheology of the planetary body has a major effect on the core formation mechanism: while bodies with a weak rheology generally show a diapiric mode of core formation, the interior of planetary bodies with a stiff rheology can be fractured or displaced toward the surface. On Earth‐sized protoplanets, the water content seems also to have a significant influence on the mode of core formation. Results indicate a time scale of differentiation of a few million years, significantly shorter than expected from the Stokes sinking time in a Newtonian medium.
A north‐south difference in the rotation rate of auroral hiss at Saturn: Comparison to Saturn's kilometric radio emission
Authors: Gurnett D. A. , Persoon A. M. , Groene J. B. , Kopf A. J. , Hospodarsky G. B. , Kurth W. S.
Published: November 2009

Broadband whistler‐mode emissions, commonly observed by the Cassini spacecraft at high latitudes in Saturn's magnetosphere at frequencies below about 100 Hz, have characteristics very similar to auroral hiss observed at high latitudes in Earth's magnetosphere. In contrast to terrestrial auroral hiss, which shows no obvious rotational modulation, Saturnian auroral hiss shows a very pronounced rotational modulation. We show that the rotation period of the auroral hiss is different in the northern and southern hemispheres, with a period of about 10.6 hours in the northern hemisphere and about 10.8 hours in the southern hemisphere. To within experimental error the rotation periods in the two hemispheres match the rotation periods of Saturn Kilometric Radiation, an intense radio emission generated along the auroral field lines at frequencies from about 20 to 500 kHz. These north–south asymmetries have potentially important implications on how angular momentum is transferred from the planet to the magnetospheric plasma.
Aurora and magnetic field of Uranus
Authors: Herbert Floyd
Published: November 2009

Resolution of the details of a planetary magnetic field from magnetometer measurements made during a single flyby can be severely limited because of the incomplete geometrical sampling of the planetary neighborhood by the flyby trajectory. This problem was especially severe for the only spacecraft encounter with Uranus, that of Voyager 2 in 1986. Fortunately, auroras at the magnetic field line footprints serve as additional constraints that may be used to determine the higher multipole moments of planetary fields (Connerney et al.'s (1998) VIP‐4 model of for Jupiter). In the present work, this approach is applied to improving the resolution of the magnetic field of Uranus. The auroral emission distribution at Uranus is determined from scans by the Voyager 2 Ultraviolet Spectrometer (UVS), enhancing an earlier analysis by Herbert and Sandel (1994) by incorporating more observations and by using more powerful analysis techniques. The resulting new determination of the auroral ovals is well correlated with the field lines associated with the strongest plasma wave and radio emissions but differs from model ovals computed by Connerney et al. (1987) from the Q3 magnetic field model for Uranus. Consequently, a search has been initiated for model coefficients of the planetary magnetic field that agree both with the magnetic field observations and also with the reasonable assumption that the newly determined auroral emissions lie at the magnetic footprints of an equidistant circum‐Uranian region of the magnetosphere. The dipole and quadrupole terms of the new field model, termed AH5, are similar to those of the dipole + quadrupole Q3 model, but the AH5 higher multipole terms diverge from the dipole + quadrupole + octupole I3E1 model of Connerney et al. (1987), from which the Q3 model was derived. Inasmuch as the I3E1 octupole terms were not resolved, the AH5 model derived here comprises a first estimate of the higher multipole moments of Uranus's magnetic field.
A global survey of CALIPSO linear depolarization ratios in ice clouds: Initial findings
Authors: Sassen Kenneth , Zhu Jiang
Published: November 2009

Linear depolarization ratio (δ) data from the summer/winter seasons over the first 2 years of Cloud‐Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO) satellite operations in the green (0.532 μm) laser channel are analyzed and interpreted in terms of ice cloud microphysical properties. That is, we use variations in δ as a proxy of cloud formation and environmental conditions that affect ice crystal shape and orientation. The cloud detection algorithm is tuned mainly to cirrus clouds, but also includes polar stratospheric clouds (PSC) and optically thin, low and midlevel ice clouds at high latitudes. As anticipated from ground‐based polarization lidar studies, δ increase with increasing height/decreasing temperature, and the effects of horizontally oriented plate crystals in lowing δ are evident by comparing data obtained close to the nadir (0.3°) and off‐nadir (3.0°) pointing directions. These differences in δ average 0.01–0.03, although this anisotropic scattering effect is particularly apparent at low altitudes in the mid and high latitudes. Unexpected findings include decreasing δ with increasing latitude, and δ in detected PSC that are usually similar to cirrus clouds. However, δ in PSC are lower in a belt in the lower stratosphere in the Southern Hemisphere and generally lower in the Northern Hemisphere, but higher in lower stratospheric nacreous clouds in both hemispheres. There are also significant differences in the ice cloud δ measured at night and day, but this is assumed to result from factors associated with day/night differences in CALIPSO data collection. Global average δ are 0.34–0.36 for day, and 0.23–0.26 for night.
A Poisson random field model of pathogen transport in surface water
Authors: Yeghiazarian L. , Samorodnitsky G. , Montemagno C. D.
Published: November 2009

To address the uncertainty associated with microbial transport and surface water contamination events, we developed a new comprehensive stochastic framework that combines processes on the microscopic (single microorganism) and macroscopic (ensembles of microorganisms) scales. The spatial and temporal population behavior is modeled as a nonhomogeneous Poisson random field with Markovian field dynamics. The model parameters are based on the actual physical and biological characteristics of the Cryptosporidium parvum transport process and can be extended to cover a variety of other pathogens. Since soil particles have been shown to be a major vehicle in microbial transport, a U.S. Department of Agriculture approved erosion model (Water Erosion Prediction Project) is incorporated into the model. Risk assessment is an integral part of the stochastic model and is conducted using a set of simple calculations. Poisson intensity functions and correlations are computed. The results consistently indicate that surface water contamination events are transient, with traveling high peaks of microorganism concentrations. Correlations between microorganism populations at different points in time and space reach relatively significant levels even at large distances from one another. This information is aimed to assist water resources management teams in the decision‐making process to identify the likely timing and locations of high‐risk areas and thus to avoid collection of contaminated water.
Sources and spatial and temporal characteristics of organic carbon in two large reservoirs with contrasting hydrologic characteristics
Authors: Park Hae‐Kyung , Byeon Myeong‐Seop , Shin Yu‐Na , Jung Dong‐Il
Published: November 2009

We investigated the sources, fluxes, and spatial and temporal distribution of organic carbon in two large reservoirs in Korea having different trophic and hydrologic features. In Lake Paldang (river‐type reservoir) most of the organic carbon comes from allochthonous sources (88%), while in Lake Chungju (lake‐type reservoir) the allochthonous load contributed 52% (48% autochthonous). Strong correlations were found between the amount and contribution of allochthonous and autochthonous organic carbon and hydrologic parameters in Lake Paldang but not in Lake Chungju. The spatiotemporal fluctuation patterns of C/N ratios of particulate organic matter, chlorophyll a/particulate organic carbon values, and specific ultraviolet absorption of dissolved organic carbon were different, indicating differences in state and source of organic carbon in the two reservoirs. Our results indicate that meteorologic and hydrologic controls directly determine the state of lacustrine organic carbon in Lake Paldang, whereas autochthonous production and in situ transformation may play important roles in determining the state of lacustrine organic carbon in Lake Chungju.
Members of the CIP4 family of proteins participate in the regulation of platelet‐derived growth factor receptor‐β‐dependent actin reorganization and migration
Authors: Toguchi Marcia , Richnau Ninna , Ruusala Aino , Aspenström Pontus
Published: November 2009

Background information. The F‐BAR {Fes/CIP4 [Cdc42 (cell division cycle 42)‐interacting protein 4] homology and BAR (Bin/amphiphysin/Rvs)} proteins have emerged as important co‐ordinators of signalling pathways that regulate actin assembly and membrane dynamics. The presence of the F‐BAR domain is the hallmark of this family of proteins and the CIP4 (Cdc42‐interacting protein 4) was one of the first identified vertebrate F‐BAR proteins. There are three human CIP4 paralogues, namely CIP4, FBP17 (formin‐binding protein 17) and Toca‐1 (transducer of Cdc42‐dependent actin assembly 1). The CIP4‐like proteins have been implicated in Cdc42‐dependent actin reorganization and in regulation of membrane deformation events visible as tubulation of lipid bilayers.

Results. We performed side‐by‐side analyses of the three CIP4 paralogues. We found that the three CIP4‐like proteins vary in their effectiveness to catalyse membrane tubulation and actin reorganization. Moreover, we show that the CIP4‐dependent membrane tubulation is enhanced in the presence of activated Cdc42. Some F‐BAR members have been shown to have a role in the endocytosis of the EGF (epidermal growth factor) receptor and this prompted us to study the involvement of the CIP4‐like proteins in signalling of the PDGFRβ [PDGF (platelet‐derived growth factor) β‐receptor]. We found that knock‐down of CIP4‐like proteins resulted in a prolonged formation of PDGF‐induced dorsal ruffles, as well as an increased PDGF‐dependent cell migration. This was most likely a consequence of a sustained PDGFRβ activation caused by delayed internalization of the receptor in the cells treated with siRNA (small interfering RNA) specific for the CIP4‐like proteins.

Conclusions. Our findings show that CIP4‐like proteins induced membrane tubulation downstream of Cdc42 and that they have important roles in PDGF‐dependent actin reorganization and cell migration by regulating internalization and activity of the PDGFRβ. Moreover, the results suggest an important role for the CIP4‐like proteins in the regulation of the activity of the PDGFRβ.