bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revisited conformational analysis of perhydro‐3a,6a,9a‐triazaphenalene based on Raman analysis
Authors: Chapuis Christian , Hagemann Hans , Fieber Wolfgang , Brauchli Robert , de Saint Laumer Jean‐Yves
Published: November 2008

We have demonstrated experimentally by Raman analysis that 1a exists as a mixture of ttt/cct conformers at 22 °C in liquid or CCl4 solution, thus contrasting with the initial IR, NMR and X‐ray analyses, which were strongly in favour of (ttt)‐1a. The global stereoelectronic stabilization is ca. 4.0–4.2 kcal/mol for both parallel N lone pairs (lp) in (cct)‐1a, based on a ΔH of 0.75 kcal/mol (±10%), as measured by Raman spectroscopy from 22 to 90 °C, as well as the roughly estimated MM2 MeNHEt and MeNHCH2NH2 gauche interactions. DFT calculations using B3LYP/6‐31G* yield a standard ΔH value of 1.04 kcal/mol, in good agreement with the experiment, and predict a ttt/cct ratio of ca. 77:23 at 25 °C. Broadening of the 13C‐NMR signals was observed in either CCl4 or CS2 or even CDCl3 solutions between −20 and −40 °C. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Micelles derivatized with octreotide as potential target‐selective contrast agents in MRI
Authors: Morisco Anna , Accardo Antonella , Gianolio Eliana , Tesauro Diego , Benedetti Ettore , Morelli Giancarlo
Published: November 2008

New amphiphilic monomers (OCA‐DTPAGlu and OCA‐DOTA) containing, in the same molecule, three different functions: (i) the chelating agent (DTPAGlu or DOTA) able to coordinate gadolinium ion, (ii) the octreotide bioactive peptide able to target somatostatin receptors, and (iii) a hydrophobic moiety with two 18‐carbon atoms alkyl chains have been designed and synthesized by solid‐phase methods. The novel amphiphilic monomers aggregate, in water solution, giving stable micelles at very low concentration (cmc values of 2.3 × 10−6 mol kg−1 and 2.5 × 10−6 mol kg−1 for OCA‐DTPAGlu and OCA‐DOTA, respectively) as confirmed by fluorescence spectroscopy. Fluorescence studies and circular dichroism experiments indicate, for the two compounds as well as for their gadolinium complexes (OCA‐DOTA(Gd) and OCA‐DTPAGlu(Gd)), the complete exposure of octreotide on the micelle surface, and the predominant presence of an antiparallel β‐sheet peptide conformation characterized by a β‐like turn. The high relaxivity value (r1p = 13.9 mM−1 s−1 at 20 MHz and 25 °C), measured for micelles obtained by the gadolinium complex OCA‐DTPAGlu(Gd), indicates these aggregates as promising target‐selective magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents. Copyright © 2008 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analogues of AVP modified in theN‐terminal part of the molecule with Pip isomers: TFA‐catalysed peptide bond hydrolysis
Authors: Sobolewski Dariusz , Prahl Adam , Kwiatkowska Anna , Slaninová Jiřina , Lammek Bernard
Published: November 2008

Using SPPS techniques, six new analogues of AVP and some of its agonists were synthesised. The peptides were designed by substitution of Phe at position 3 of AVP, [Mpa1] AVP (dAVP) and [Mpa1,Val4,D‐Arg8]VP (dVDAVP) withL‐ orD‐Pip, a non‐coded α‐imino acid, also called homoproline. Surprisingly enough, both the analogues of AVP and [Mpa1]AVP with identical substituents at position 2 turned out to be highly sensitive to TFA used for deprotection and cleavage of the synthesised peptides from the resin and it was the reason why we were not able to obtain these four peptides. The mechanisms of their fragmentation were proposed in this study. Unfortunately, all the new analogues were inactive in bioassays for the pressor, antidiuretic and uterotonicinvitroactivities in the rat. Copyright © 2008 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pressure‐induced structural phase transitions in materials and earth sciences
Authors: Manjón Francisco Javier , Errandonea Daniel
Published: November 2008

Pressure is an important thermodynamic parameter since it allows an increase of matter density by reducing volume. The reduction of volume by applying high pressures leads to an overall decrease of interatomic and intermolecular distances that allows exploring in detail atomic and molecular interactions. Therefore, high‐pressure research has improved our fundamental understanding of these interactions in solids, liquids and gasses. The study of the structure of matter under compression is a rapid developing field that is receiving increasing attention especially due to continuous experimental and theoretical developments. In this article, we give a brief description of the experimental and theoretical methods employed in the study of solid matter at high pressures and summarize the high‐pressure phases of the most relevant elements and inorganic compounds of the AX, A2X, AX2, ABX2, A2X3, ABX3, ABX4and AB2X4families giving an overview of the state of the art in high‐pressure research by highlighting recent discoveries, hot spots, controversial questions, and future directions of research. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Nonlinear optics with ZnO nanowires
Authors: Voss Tobias , Kudyk Iryna , Wischmeier Lars , Gutowski Jürgen
Published: November 2008

Second‐harmonic generation and two‐photon induced photoluminescence from arrays of ZnO nanowires and single nanowires under excitation with femtosecond pulses is experimentally studied. The ratio of relevant components of the nonlinear χ(2) tensor is obtained. The excitation of the nanowire array with femtosecond laser pulses induces significant heating of the free‐standing nanowires. The heat distribution is analyzed in phenomenological finite‐element studies. Two‐photon excitation of a broad internal photoluminescence in single ZnO nanowires is used to perform a single‐nanowire transmission experiment. From the transmitted intensity, the band‐gap shift in the excited nanowire is obtained. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Zero‐phonon line broadening and satellite peaks in nanowire quantum dots: The role of piezoelectric coupling
Authors: Weber Carsten , Lindwall Greta , Wacker Andreas
Published: November 2008

We investigate the influence of the one‐dimensional character of the phonon modes in a catalytically grown GaAs nanowire on the absorption spectrum of an embedded quantum dot, focusing on the contribution from the piezoelectric coupling. In general, the reduced dimensionality of the phonons leads to spectral side peaks and a zero‐phonon line broadening due to the energetically lowest (acoustic) phonon mode. While the deformation potential predominantly couples to radial modes, the piezoelectric interaction can also couple strongly to modes of axial character, leading to additional absorption features. The contribution of the piezoelectric coupling to the zero‐phonon line is negligible. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Generalizing Planck's law: Nonequilibrium emission of excited media
Authors: Henneberger K.
Published: November 2008

Using a quantum‐kinetic many‐body approach, exact results for the interacting system of field and matter in a specified geometry are presented. It is shown that both the spectral function of photons and the field fluctuations split up into vacuum‐ and medium‐induced contributions, for which explicit expressions are derived. Using Poynting's theorem, the incoherent emission is analyzed and related to the coherent absorption as may be measured in a linear transmission‐reflection experiment. Their ratio defines the medium‐induced population of the modes of the transverse electromagnetic field and so generalizes Planck's law to an arbitrarily absorbing and dispersing medium in a nonequilibrium steady state. For quasi‐equilibrium, this population develops into a Bose distribution whose chemical potential marks the crossover from absorption to gain and, also, characterizes the degree of excitation. Macroscopic quantum phenomena such as lasing and quantum condensation are discussed on this footing. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Predicting the influence of observations on medium‐range forecasts of atmospheric flow
Authors: Sellwood Kathryn J. , Majumdar Sharanya J. , Mapes Brian E. , Szunyogh Istvan
Published: November 2008

In recent years, the Ensemble Transform Kalman Filter (ETKF) has been demonstrated to be useful for identifying a priori dynamically important locations for the placement of supplementary dropwindsonde observations aimed at improving short‐range (1–3 day) forecasts of high‐impact winter weather. In this paper, the ability of this strategy to predict the influence (or ‘signal’) of assimilating observations into the NCEP Global Forecast System for forecasts of 200 hPa wind up to 6 days is evaluated. Using a 50‐member ECMWF ensemble, the ETKF was found to exhibit significantly higher skill than a seasonal ‘climatology’ of the important locations in predicting both (1) the spatial structure of signals within the storm track on a case‐by‐case basis; and (2) the variance of these signals over a 2‐month period, within objectively chosen verification regions on synoptic scales. The verification region was selected by extracting the zonal envelope of the Rossby wave packet associated with the propagating ETKF signal variance. It is recommended that larger verification regions be used for longer lead times, due to the eastward expansion of the wave packet.

The capability of the ETKF to predict signal variance out to 6 days was found to be dependent on the flow regime. The ETKF was most capable when the background flow was predominantly zonal, and least capable in instances where the observations were placed upstream of a blocking high over the north‐eastern Pacific. Therefore, the ETKF is sometimes (but not always) able to predict when there exists significant potential for a particular group of observations to improve medium‐range forecasts. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Robotic‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy in Italy: perioperative data on the first 150 patients
Authors: Pierini Paolo , Baldassarre Emanuele , Lillaz Beatrice , Viganò Massimo , Merlo Fabrizio
Published: November 2008

Background

In 2004 we performed the first robot‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) at Aosta, Italy.

Methods

Data about our first 150 RALPs are presented.

Results

Mean patient age was 65.2 (range 51–75) years; mean preoperative PSA level 7.9 (range 1.8–25.0) ng/ml. Nerve sparing was performed in 109 cases (72.7%) with lymph nodes dissection in 27 (18.0%). Operative time: patients 1–50, mean 213.3 (range 185–290) min; patients 51–100, 207.3 (range 185–335) min; patients 101–150, 171.7 (range 123–270) min. Two procedures were converted to open. Mean blood loss was 235 (range 20–1000) ml with two blood transfusions. One patient was reoperated for anastomotic leakage. Four patients were treated by colostomy and rectal suture for rectal injury (n = 3) or recto‐urethral fistula (n = 1). The overall complication incidence was 13.3% (20 events), while mortality was nil.

Conclusions

The incidence of complications is slightly higher than in major pilot centres but it is comparable, hence RALP also appears feasible in our italian peripheral centre. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Folate Functionalized Boron Nitride Nanotubes and their Selective Uptake by Glioblastoma Multiforme Cells: Implications for their Use as Boron Carriers in Clinical Boron Neutron Capture Therapy
Authors: Ciofani Gianni , Raffa Vittoria , Menciassi Arianna , Cuschieri Alfred
Published: November 2008

Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is increasingly being used in the treatment of several aggressive cancers, including cerebral glioblastoma multiforme. The main requirement for this therapy is selective targeting of tumor cells by sufficient quantities of10B atoms required for their capture/irradiation with low-energy thermal neutrons. The low content of boron targeting species in glioblastoma multiforme accounts for the difficulty in selective targeting of this very malignant cerebral tumor by this radiation modality. In the present study, we have used for the first time boron nitride nanotubes as carriers of boron atoms to overcome this problem and enhance the selective targeting and ablative efficacy of BNCT for these tumors. Following their dispersion in aqueous solution by noncovalent coating with biocompatible poly-l-lysine solutions, boron nitride nanotubes were functionalized with a fluorescent probe (quantum dots) to enable their tracking and with folic acid as selective tumor targeting ligand. Initial in vitro studies have confirmed substantive and selective uptake of these nanovectors by glioblastoma multiforme cells, an observation which confirms their potential clinical application for BNCT therapy for these malignant cerebral tumors.
Break Free of the Matrix: Sensitive and Rapid Analysis of Small Molecules Using Nanostructured Surfaces and LDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Daniels R. Hugh , Dikler Sergei , Li Esther , Stacey Catherine
Published: November 2008

We describe a novel nanostructured target plate for laser desorption/ionization (LDI) mass spectrometry, NALDI (Bruker Daltonics, Billerica, MA) target plates. The active surface comprises several layers of inorganic materials that are structured at the nanoscale and then further coated with a hydrophobic organic layer that facilitates sample deposition and LDI performance. These targets have been designed to analyze low mass (below 1500 Da), relatively polar, organic molecules and they have been shown to be up to 10 times more sensitive at detecting analytes in this range than conventional Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization—Time of Flight (MALDI)-TOF analysis. The targets can be used on standard LDI-TOF mass spectrometers and have been designed to fit the Bruker Flex series of mass spectrometers. This study demonstrates the utility of these targets for analyzing pharmaceutical compounds and demonstrates their superiority over conventional MALDI both in terms of performance and ease of use. Finally, we also demonstrate that these targets can be used in a unique sample preparation and analysis mode by allowing the capture and analysis of analytes from complex biological solutions.
Lock‐in situations in supply chains: A social exchange theoretic study of sourcing arrangements in buyer–supplier relationships
Authors: Narasimhan Ram , Nair Anand , Griffith David A. , Arlbjørn Jan Stentoft , Bendoly Elliot
Published: November 2008

Social exchange theory is used to gain a better understanding of the relationship between a buyer and a supplier that is characterized by lock‐in situations. We begin by reviewing the theoretical foundations of social exchange theory. Next, we use an illustrative multinational business example from a Danish Business Group to demonstrate the complexities of the lock‐in situation. Conjectures related to lock‐in behaviors are initially developed and then examined by means of a game‐theoretic model. The analysis provides a basis for the development of propositions which are examined employing a behavioral experiment. The results indicate that the optimal pricing strategy of the supplier is to lower the price with increasing demand and the optimal investment intensity of the buyer decreases with increasing demand. The paper concludes by presenting directions for future research.
Comparing Court and Kennett Leadership Styles: Energy Sector Reform in Western Australia and Victoria
Authors: Barton Stephen , van Onselen Peter
Published: November 2008

This paper argues that political leadership is primarily displayed by the achievement of goals. However leaders do not operate in a vacuum; they must achieve their goals in a social and economic environment that presents both challenges and opportunities. The extent to which leaders are successful, by that we mean display political leadership, depends on their leadership style. That is, the deployment of their institutional powers (with their own inherent limitations), to overcome challenges and exploit opportunities. Political leadership relies on adopting the most appropriate leadership style in a given situation. This paper will explore such considerations with regard to energy sector reform in the states of Western Australia and Victoria during the Governments of Richard Court and Jeff Kennett respectively. Leadership as it applies to policy in the political context requires an empirical approach in order to judge the prescriptive outcomes. We therefore define political leadership (in all its facets) and establish a model of political leadership appropriate when looking at premiers in the Australian context. Finally this model is applied to energy sector reforms in the states of Victoria and Western Australia.
‘Here's a Wee Present for You’: The Role of Civic Culture in the Governance of Northern Ireland
Authors: Maguire Diarmuid
Published: November 2008

This article explores how civil servants have sought to reform civil society in Northern Ireland during the peace process by using funding of community groups, but also through the discourse necessary to get hold of that funding. It argues that this attempted re-construction of civil society initiated by the state reflects three arguments. First, there is clear evidence of an ideational change among leading civil servants away from sectarianism and towards more liberal conceptions of civil society. Second, the involvement of the European Union in Northern Ireland not only provides some of this funding but is also a model as it shifts from economic unity to political unity. Third, these factors have led to a form of governance based on participatory democracy. This article argues, however, that there is a failure in dealing with existing forms of representative democracy, which ultimately have the power to undermine the peace process.
Suiting Ourselves: Research Governance in a New Generation University
Authors: Hobson Jane , Shaver Sheila
Published: November 2008

We explore research governance through the case of a new generation university, identifying faultlines, tensions and possibilities in the gender regimes shaping participation in research and research management. The university compares well with other Australian universities for the number of women at senior levels, but has it required women to “pose” as men in order to achieve those aspirations? The university's research development is mixed, with a lack of research depth that is, in part, an effect of gender – unrealised research potential in “pink pockets” of teaching and nursing, though there are similar underperforming “blue pockets” such as accounting. The paper explores gender equity politics in relation to the consequences of a contradiction between a mission and history that value teaching and a policy environment that valorises research.
Path Creation? Processes and Networks: How the Chinese Rural Tax Reform Began
Authors: Chelan Li Linda
Published: November 2008

How can we possibly deviate from trodden paths and accustomed practices, given the weight of institutional inertia and resistance against change? This paper looks into the early phases of the emergence of the Chinese rural tax-for-fee reform to seek an answer. It describes how the reform came into being through going “back the time line”. Having a better understanding of the early processes, this paper argues, has significance for its own sake – given that the early stages mark the departure (if any) from existing paths –as well as contributing towards a better understanding of sustainability.
Mean momentum balance in moderately favourable pressure gradient turbulent boundary layers
Authors: METZGER M. , LYONS A. , FIFE P.
Published: November 2008

Moderately favourable pressure gradient turbulent boundary layers are investigated within a theoretical framework based on the unintegrated two-dimensional mean momentum equation. The present theory stems from an observed exchange of balance between terms in the mean momentum equation across different regions of the boundary layer. This exchange of balance leads to the identification of distinct physical layers, unambiguously defined by the predominant mean dynamics active in each layer. Scaling domains congruent with the physical layers are obtained from a multi-scale analysis of the mean momentum equation. Scaling behaviours predicted by the present theory are evaluated using direct measurements of all of the terms in the mean momentum balance for the case of a sink-flow pressure gradient generated in a wind tunnel with a long development length. Measurements also captured the evolution of the turbulent boundary layers from a non-equilibrium state near the wind tunnel entrance towards an equilibrium state further downstream. Salient features of the present multi-scale theory were reproduced in all the experimental data. Under equilibrium conditions, a universal function was found to describe the decay of the Reynolds stress profile in the outer region of the boundary layer. Non-equilibrium effects appeared to be manifest primarily in the outer region, whereas differences in the inner region were attributed solely to Reynolds number effects.
General variational model reduction applied to incompressible viscous flows
Authors: BOGNER THORSTEN
Published: November 2008

In this paper, a method is introduced that allows calculation of an approximate proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) without the need to perform a simulation of the full dynamical system. Our approach is based on an application of the density matrix renormalization group (DMRG) to nonlinear dynamical systems, but has no explicit restriction on the spatial dimension of the model system. The method is not restricted to fluid dynamics. The applicability is exemplified on the incompressible Navier–Stokes equation in two spatial dimensions. Merging of two equal-signed vortices with periodic boundary conditions is considered for low Reynolds numbersRe≤800 using a spectral method. We compare the accuracy of a reduced model, obtained by our method, with that of a reduced model obtained by standard POD. To this end, error functionals for the reductions are evaluated. It is observed that the proposed method is able to find a reduced system that yields comparable or even superior accuracy with respect to standard POD method results.
A paradox of hovering insects in two-dimensional space
Authors: IIMA MAKOTO
Published: November 2008

A paradox concerning the flight of insects in two-dimensional space is identified: insects maintaining their bodies in a particular position (hovering) cannot, on average, generate hydrodynamic force if the induced flow is temporally periodic and converges to rest at infinity. This paradox is derived by using the far-field representation of periodic flow and the generalized Blasius formula, an exact formula for a force that acts on a moving body, based on the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations. Using this formula, the time-averaged force can be calculated solely in terms of the time-averaged far-field flow. A straightforward calculation represents the averaged force acting on an insect under a uniform flow, −〈V〉, determined by the balance between the hydrodynamic force and an external force such as gravity. The averaged force converges to zero in the limit 〈V〉 → 0, which implies that insects in two-dimensional space cannot hover under any finite external force if the direction of the uniform flow has a component parallel to the external force. This paradox provides insight into the effect of the singular behaviour of the flow around hovering insects: the far-field wake covers the whole space. On the basis of these assumptions, the relationship between this paradox and real insects that actually achieve hovering is discussed.
Cellular vortex shedding in the wake of a tapered plate
Authors: NARASIMHAMURTHY VAGESH D. , ANDERSSON HELGE I. , PETTERSEN BJØRNAR
Published: November 2008

Direct numerical simulation (DNS) of vortex shedding behind a tapered plate with the taper ratio 20 placed normal to the inflow has been performed. The Reynolds numbers based on the uniform inflow velocity and the width of the plate at the wide and narrow ends were 1000 and 250, respectively. For the first time ever cellular vortex shedding was observed behind a tapered plate in a numerical experiment (DNS). Multiple cells of constant shedding frequency were found along the span of the plate. This is in contrast to apparent lack of cellular vortex shedding found in the high-Reynolds-number experiments by Gaster & Ponsford (Aero. J., vol. 88, 1984, p. 206). However, the present DNS data is in good qualitative agreement with similar high-Reynolds-number experimental data produced by Castro & Watson (Exp. Fluids, vol. 37, 2004, p. 159). It was observed that a tapered plate creates longer formation length coupled with higher base pressure as compared to non-tapered (i.e. uniform) plates. The three-dimensional recirculation bubble was nearly conical in shape. A significant base pressure reduction towards the narrow end of the plate, which results in a corresponding increase in Strouhal number, was noticed. This observation is consistent with the experimental data of Castro & Rogers (Exp. Fluids, vol. 33, 2002, p. 66). Pressure-driven spanwise secondary motion was observed, both in the front stagnation zone and also in the wake, thereby reflecting the three-dimensionality induced by the tapering.
Low-frequency sound sources in high-speed turbulent jets
Authors: BODONY DANIEL J. , LELE SANJIVA K.
Published: November 2008

An analysis of the sound radiated by three turbulent, high-speed jets is conducted using Lighthill's acoustic analogy (Proc. R. Soc. Lond. A, vol. 211, 1952, p. 564). Computed by large eddy simulation the three jets operate at different conditions: a Mach 0.9 cold jet, a Mach 2.0 cold jet and a Mach 1.0 heated jet. The last two jets have the same jet velocity and differ only by temperature. None of the jets exhibit Mach wave characteristics. For these jets the comparison between the Lighthill-predicted sound and the directly computed sound is favourable for all jets and for the two angles (30° and 90°, measured from the downstream jet axis) considered. The momentum (ρuiuj) and the so-called entropy [p − p∞ − a∞2(ρ − ρ∞)] contributions are examined in the acoustic far field. It is found that significant phase cancellation exists between the momentum and entropy components. It is observed that for high-speed jets one cannot consider ρuiuj and (p′ − a∞2ρ′)δij as independent sources. In particular the ρ′ūxūx component of ρuiuj is strongly coupled with the entropy term as a consequence of compressibility and the high jet velocity and not because of a linear sound-generation mechanism. Further, in more usefully decoupling the momentum and entropic contributions, the decomposition of Tij due to Lilley (Tech. Rep. AGARD CP-131 1974) is preferred. Connections are made between the present results and the quieting of high-speed jets with heating.
Environmental factors affecting nematode community structure in the Changjiang Estuary and its adjacent waters
Authors: Hua E. , Zhang Z.N. , Zhang Y.
Published: November 2008

This paper describes the major features of nematode assemblages collected at 18 stations in the Changjiang River estuary and its adjacent waters and identifies dominant species within communities in relation to environmental parameters. Meiofauna from the Changjiang Estuary and its adjacent waters comprised 21 major taxa of higher categories. Subsamples of nematodes were extracted and identified to the species level. In general, the nematode community structure was similar to that of muddy sublittoral areas world-wide. The most abundant genera were Daptonema, Cobbia, Sabatieria, Dorylaimopsis and Terschellingia, accounting for 50.0%. The studied area exhibited high nematode abundance and high species biodiversity. Measurements of environmental factors were made, including grain size, salinity, temperature, sediment organic matter content, Chl-a and Phaeo-a. Different combinations of environmental variables are responsible for the meiofauna and nematode communities' structures. However, BIOENV results indicate that water depth, salinity, Chl-a, Phaeo-a and silt–clay content were more closely linked to variation in meiofauna (mainly nematode) community structure in the studied area. Among these, water depth, salinity, Chl-a and Phaeo-a were most responsible for nematode assemblage discrimination in the studied area.
Comparison of odontocete populations of the Marquesas and Society Islands (French Polynesia)
Authors: Gannier Alexandre
Published: November 2008

Small boat surveys were organized to study cetaceans of the Marquesas (9°S and 140°W) and the Society Islands (17°S and 150°W) in French Polynesia. Prospecting took place from 12–15 m sailboats, between 1996 and 2001 with systematic visual searching. Boats moved according to sea conditions, at a mean speed of 10 km/h. Effective effort of 4856 km in the Marquesas and 10,127 km in the Societies were logged. Relative abundance indices were processed for odontocetes using data obtained with Beaufort 4 or less. In the Marquesas, 153 on-effort sightings were obtained on 10 delphinids species including the spotted dolphin, spinner dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, melon-headed whale and rough-toothed dolphin. In the Societies, 153 sightings of 12 odontocetes included delphinids (spinner, rough-toothed and bottlenose dolphins, short-finned pilot and melon-headed whales, Fraser's dolphin, Risso's dolphin and pygmy killer whale) and two species of beaked whales, the sperm whale and dwarf sperm whale. Relative abundance indices were higher in the Marquesas than in the Societies both inshore (0.93 ind/km2against 0.36 ind/km2) and offshore (0.28 ind/km2against 0.14 ind/km2). Differences in remote-sensed primary production were equally important, the Marquesas waters featuring an annual average of 409 mgC.m−2 · day−1and the Societies of only 171 mgC · m−2 · day−1. The presence of a narrow shelf around the Marquesas also accounted for differences in odontocete populations, in particular the delphinids.
Biochemical composition of the mesopelagic coronate jellyfishPeriphylla periphyllafrom the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Lucas Cathy H.
Published: November 2008

The size–weight relationships, percentage water, ash-free dry weight and biochemical (protein, lipid and carbohydrate) contents of the coronate jellyfish speciesPeriphylla periphyllahave been analysed. A total of 48 medusae ranging in size from 13 to 80 mm bell diameter were collected from mesopelagic depths in the eastern Gulf of Mexico. The dry mass of whole medusae ranged from 1.12 to 10.53% of wet weight (mean 5.49%), while ash-free dry weight, a proxy for organic content, varied between 25.19 and 34.89% of dry weight (mean 30.14%). Preservation in 2% glutaraldehyde resulted in shrinkage in >75% of the medusae, with preserved bell diameters 2.9% to 28.6% smaller than the original fresh bell diameters. Preservation also produced a significant adjustment to the bell diameter to wet weight relationship. With regard to biochemical content, the typical gelatinous zooplankton trend of low carbohydrate (mean 8.99 mg gDW−1), intermediate lipid (mean 20.57 mg gDW−1) and high protein (mean 63.71 mg gDW−1) was observed. Although there was a high degree of variability in biochemistry, there was no apparent trend with size.
The North Sea benthic system: a 36 year time-series
Authors: Frid C.L.J. , Garwood P.R , Robinson L.A.
Published: November 2008

Since 1971 the macro-benthic infauna at Station P, 18.5 km off the Northumberland coast (central western North Sea), have been sampled by grabbing each January/February. The data series now includes over 260 taxa from 173 genera. The most abundant taxa are Heteromastus, Levinsinia and Priospio which between them account for nearly 45% of the individuals recorded while the top 10 ranked taxa between them include almost 70% of the individuals recorded. Both total abundance and genera richness have varied through the 36 year series, particularly during the late 1980s–early 1990s but there was no trend and values in the 2000s are similar to those at the start of the series. However, MDS ordination of the entire genera abundance series shows a trend in composition of the macrobenthos through time. There is evidence that the changes in composition were driven by fishing impacts, but also influenced by the trend in climate warming and altered fluxes of phytoplankton to the benthos. Given that the dominant taxa have not changed and the total abundance and richness are similar this implies a turnover and redistribution of individuals across many taxa and raises the possibility of shifts in the ecological functioning of the system.
Evaluation of the video-identification technique applied to bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Cagarras Archipelago, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Lodi Liliane , Mayerhofer Luiz Cláudio , Monteiro Neto Cassiano
Published: November 2008

Reliable methods to identify and monitor cetacean individuals are important to assess population behaviour and ecology. We describe and evaluate the application of the digital video-identification technique (DVI) for the acquisition and analysis of dorsal fin images in the study of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Cagarras Archipelago, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Between August and November 2004, we identified and catalogued 20 individuals; 80% were re-sighted more than twice. The Individual Residence Index varied between 1.0 (N = 1) and 0.2 (N = 4). Compared with traditional photo-identification methods, DVI offers significant advantages in respect to production of sequential images and speed of editing and processing.
Effect of vitrification technique and assisted hatching on rabbit embryo developmental rate
Authors: Popelková M. , Turanová Z. , Koprdová L. , Ostró A. , Toporcerová S. , Makarevich A. V. , Chrenek P.
Published: November 2008

The aim of the study was to determine the efficiency of two vitrification techniques followed by two assisted hatching (AH) techniques based on post-thaw developmental capacity of precompacted rabbit embryos and their ability to leave the zona pellucida (hatching) during in vitro culture. The total cell number and embryo diameter as additional markers of embryo quality after warming were evaluated. In vivo fertilized, in vitro cultured 8–12-cell rabbit embryos obtained from superovulated rabbit does were cryopreserved by two-step vitrification method using ethylene glycol (EG) as cryoprotectant or by one-step vitrification method with EG and Ficoll (EG+Ficoll). Thawed embryos were subjected to enzymatic or mechanical AH. Vitrified EG group showed significantly lower (P < 0.05) blastocyst rate (22.5%) and hatching rate (15%) than those vitrified with EG + Ficoll (63 and 63% resp.) and that of control (97 and 97% respectively). Significantly lower values of total cell number (P < 0.05) as well as embryo diameter (P < 0.01) in EG group compared with EG + Ficoll and control group were recorded. No significant difference was found in developmental potential of warmed embryos treated by either mechanical or enzymatic AH. The present study demonstrates that the EG + Ficoll vitrification protocol provides superior embryo survival rates over the EG vitrification protocol for 8–12-cell stage precompacted rabbit embryos. No positive effect of either mechanical or enzymatic AH on the post-thaw viability and quality of rabbit embryos in vitro was observed.
Neuropsychologische Befunde bei Anorexia und Bulimia nervosa im Kindes- und Jugendalter
Authors: Bühren Katharina , Holtkamp Kristian , Herpertz-Dahlmann Beate , Konrad Kerstin
Published: November 2008

Zusammenfassung: Anorexia und Bulimia nervosa sind häufige psychiatrische Erkrankungen des Kindes- und Jugendalters, die insbesondere Mädchen betreffen. Im Akutzustand der Starvation treten bei Essstörungen eine Vielzahl von hormonellen, neuropsychologischen und hirnmorphologischen Veränderungen auf, von denen einige nur teilweise reversibel sind. Komorbide psychiatrische Erkrankungen verkomplizieren das Krankheitsbild und erschweren adäquate therapeutische Interventionen. Der folgende Artikel setzt sich ausführlich mit den neuropsychologischen Defiziten bei Essstörungen, möglichen Einflussfaktoren auf die kognitive Leistungsfähigkeit und daraus resultierenden Implikationen für den klinischen Alltag auseinander.
Aufmerksamkeitstherapie bei Kindern - Langzeiteffekte des ATTENTIONERS
Authors: Jacobs Claus , Petermann Franz
Published: November 2008

Zusammenfassung: Fragestellung: Viele Kinder leiden an Aufmerksamkeitsstörungen; bei einem wesentlichen Anteil ist das Kardinalsymptom Unaufmerksamkeit und hier insbesondere das Aufmerksamkeitssteuerungsdefizit vorherrschend. Mit dem ATTENTIONER liegt ein effektives Therapieprogramm zur Behandlung solcher Steuerungsdefizite vor. Methodik: Bereits 2007 berichteten Jacobs und Petermann über erste Langzeiteffekte in einer Nachuntersuchung durchschnittlich zehn Wochen nach Therapieende. In der vorliegenden Studie erfolgten drei Verlaufsmessungen: Vor Beginn der Intervention, direkt nach der Intervention sowie eine Follow-up-Untersuchung zehn bis 76 Monate nach der ersten Nachtestung. Ergebnisse: Es zeigen sich bedeutsame Langzeiteffekte bei der Überprüfung der Aufmerksamkeitssteuerung. Die überwiegende Anzahl der Patienten erzielt auch in der Follow-up-Untersuchung Ergebnisse im Durchschnittsbereich, also außerhalb des klinisch relevanten Bereichs. Schlussfolgerungen: Mit dem Attentioner lassen sich also bei den meisten Kindern stabile Therapieeffekte erzielen.
Aufmerksamkeitsstörungen nach Schlaganfällen im Kindesalter
Authors: Eikelmann Antje , Petermann Franz , Daseking Monika
Published: November 2008

Zusammenfassung: Fragestellung: Es wird geklärt, ob es nach Schlaganfällen im Kindes- und Jugendalter zu Aufmerksamkeitsstörungen kommt und welche Einflussfaktoren vorliegen. Methodik: Es wurden die Aufmerksamkeitsleistungen von 78 schlaganfallerkrankten Kindern in Untertests der Testbatterie zur Aufmerksamkeitsprüfung (TAP) sowie der Testbatterie zur Aufmerksamkeitsprüfung für Kinder (KITAP) ausgewertet. Darüber hinaus wurden der Elternfragebogen der CBCL/4-18 sowie eine während der Untersuchung dokumentierte und standardisierte Verhaltensbeobachtung eingesetzt. Die Ergebnisse werden u.a. nach Alter zum Zeitpunkt des Schlaganfalls, betroffener Hemisphäre und Lokalisation des Schlaganfalls miteinander verglichen. Ergebnisse: Nach Schlaganfällen im Kindes- und Jugendalter kommt es vermehrt zu Störungen der Aufmerksamkeitsleistungen. Das Geschlecht, das Alter zum Zeitpunkt des Schlaganfalls und die Lokalisation der Hirnschädigung (kortikal vs. subkortikal) zeigen keinen signifikanten Einfluss. Tendenziell treten Aufmerksamkeitsstörungen häufiger nach rechtshemisphärischen Schlaganfällen auf. Schlussfolgerungen: Es besteht die Notwendigkeit einer frühen Diagnosestellung und wirksamen Behandlung, um der Entstehung komorbider Störungen und Schulschwierigkeiten vorzubeugen.
Spatially linked asperities of the 2006–2007 great Kuril earthquakes revealed by GPS
Authors: Steblov Grigory M. , Kogan Mikhail G. , Levin Boris V. , Vasilenko Nikolai F. , Prytkov Alexander S. , Frolov Dmitry I.
Published: November 2008

In 2006–2007, two great earthquakes ruptured the center of the Kuril subduction zone: first, the interplate thrust event, then the intraplate extensional event on the outer rise. The affected region was a seismic gap since 1915. Published patterns of slip differ for various seismic and tsunami inversions. The surface offsets that we measured with GPS on the Kuril Islands are sensitive to the total slip, including slow components beyond the seismic and tsunami band. We invert coseismic offsets and show that the asperities, or regions of high slip, are spatially linked for both earthquakes; this pattern suggests (although does not prove) that the first event triggered the second. For the 2006 earthquake, the asperity is very shallow, probably because of the absence of an accretionary prism. For the 2007 earthquake, our modeling suggests that the rupture occurred in the bent Pacific lithosphere to a depth of ∼50 km.
Vlasov simulations of electron holes driven by particle distributions from PIC reconnection simulations with a guide field
Authors: Goldman Martin V. , Newman David L. , Pritchett Philip
Published: November 2008

Parallel velocity particle distributions taken from 2‐D PIC simulations of magnetic reconnection with a guide field, Bg are used to initialize 1‐D and 2‐D electrostatic Vlasov simulations which include the direction parallel to the (local) magnetic field, B. Electron holes develop near the separatrix from an electron‐ion (e.g., Buneman) instability. Restriction of the destabilizing current to a narrow sheet perpendicular to B reduces the Buneman growth rate but leads to more stable holes. Near the x‐point, B is almost parallel to Bg. Here, electron‐electron “kinetic” two‐stream instabilities lead to holes moving parallel to B, which can modify the electron‐ion interaction. This results in a second generation of (slower) electron phase space perturbations which can reduce the current.
Boundary layer aerosol chemistry during TexAQS/GoMACCS 2006: Insights into aerosol sources and transformation processes
Authors: Bates T. S. , Quinn P. K. , Coffman D. , Schulz K. , Covert D. S. , Johnson J. E. , Williams E. J. , Lerner B. M. , Angevine W. M. , Tucker S. C. , Brewer W. A. , Stohl A.
Published: November 2008

The air quality and climate forcing impacts of atmospheric aerosols in a metropolitan region depend on the amount, composition, and size of the aerosol transported into the region; the input and removal of aerosols and aerosol precursors within the region; and the subsequent chemical processing in the atmosphere. These factors were studied in the Houston‐Galveston‐Gulf of Mexico region, aboard the NOAA R/V Ronald H. Brown during the Texas Air Quality Study and Gulf of Mexico Atmospheric Composition and Climate Study (TexAQS/GoMACCS 2006). The aerosol measured in the Gulf of Mexico during onshore flow (low radon concentrations indicating no contact with land for several days) was highly impacted by Saharan dust and what appear to be ship emissions (acidic sulfate and nitrate). Mean (median) mass concentrations of the total submicrometer and supermicrometer aerosol were 6.5 (4.6) μg m−3 and 17.2 (8.7) μg m−3, respectively. These mass loadings of “background” aerosol are much higher than typically observed in the marine atmosphere and thus have a substantial impact on the radiative energy balance over the Gulf of Mexico and particulate matter (PM) loadings (air quality) in the Houston‐Galveston area. As this background aerosol moved onshore, local urban and industrial sources added an organic rich submicrometer component (66% particulate organic matter (POM), 20% sulfate, 14% elemental carbon) but no significant supermicrometer aerosol. The resulting aerosol had mean (median) mass concentrations of the total submicrometer and supermicrometer aerosol of 10.0 (9.1) μg m−3 and 16.8 (11.2) μg m−3, respectively. These air masses, with minimal processing of urban emissions contained the highest SO2/(SO2 + SO4=) ratios and the highest hydrocarbon‐like organic aerosol to total organic aerosol ratios (HOA/POM). In contrast, during periods of offshore flow, the aerosol was more processed and, therefore, much richer in oxygenated organic aerosol (OOA). Mean (median) mass concentrations of the total submicrometer and supermicrometer aerosol were 20.8 (18.6) μg m−3 and 7.4 (5.0) μg m−3, respectively. Sorting air masses based on their trajectories and time over land provides a means to examine the effects of transport and subsequent chemical processing. Understanding and parameterizing these processes is critical for the chemical transport modeling that forms the basis for air quality forecasts and radiative forcing calculations.
Phylogenetic relationships of the heath dragons (Rankinia adelaidensis and R. parviceps) from the south-western Australian biodiversity hotspot
Authors: Melville Jane , Shoo Luke P. , Doughty Paul
Published: November 2008

Although the south-western Australian region is recognised as a global biodiversity hotspot, there are still significant gaps in our understanding of the biodiversity of this region. We present a phylogenetic study of the heath dragons (Rankinia adelaidensis and R. parviceps) from this region, incorporating a 1612-bp section of mtDNA and two nuclear introns, Gapdh (~244 bp) and Enol (~330 bp). In addition, we present a generic-level analysis of three gene regions (mtDNA, Gapdh, BDNF), which provides clear evidence that Rankinia adelaidensis and R. parviceps are not closely related to Rankinia diemensis from eastern Australia. Instead, the heath dragons are strongly supported as forming a clade with the genus Ctenophorus. In addition, we find that there are significant levels of haplotype divergence between currently recognised subspecies of the heath dragons (R. a. adelaidensis, R. a. chapmani, R. p. parviceps, R. p. butleri). We suggest that the genetic divergences between subspecies result from geographic isolation in allopatry owing to habitat preferences, followed by drift and/or selection. On the basis of these deep divergences and consistent morphological differences between subspecies, we recommend elevating all taxa to full species, and provide a taxonomic revision of the genera Rankinia and Ctenophorus.
Solo and duet calling in the pheasant coucal: sex and individual call differences in a nesting cuckoo with reversed size dimorphism
Authors: Maurer Golo , Smith Claire , Süsser Marc , Magrath Robert D.
Published: November 2008

Duetting and female vocalisations have rarely been studied in tropical non-passerines. In coucals, a subfamily of nesting cuckoos, these behaviours have evolved under unusual conditions of male-biased parental care and reversed sexual size dimorphism. Here we provide the first detailed description of the structure and occurrence of sex-specific calls and duets in a monogamous coucal species, the pheasant coucal, Centropus phasianinus. Pheasant coucals of either sex use two types of far-reaching (>1 km) calls in their solo and duet displays: the ‘descending whoops’ call and, less frequently (25%), ‘scale’ calls. Both calls are series of very deep hooting notes that the larger females produce at lower frequency than the males (~326 versus 480 Hz). Descending whoops calls also vary among individuals but this difference is not consistent enough for individual identification. Most duets (63%) comprise a single scale call by each partner and the sexes start duets with equal frequency. Duetting triggers neighbouring pairs to duet too, suggesting a role in territory defence. Calling is most intense in the morning and early in the breeding season. The cryptic behaviour of coucals makes their calls an important tool for studies on their mating system, survey work and taxonomic research.
Structural consequences of effector protein complex formation in a diiron hydroxylase
Authors: Bailey Lucas J. , McCoy Jason G. , Phillips George N. , Fox Brian G.
Published: November 2008

Carboxylate-bridged diiron hydroxylases are multicomponent enzyme complexes responsible for the catabolism of a wide range of hydrocarbons and as such have drawn attention for their mechanism of action and potential uses in bioremediation and enzymatic synthesis. These enzyme complexes use a small molecular weight effector protein to modulate the function of the hydroxylase. However, the origin of these functional changes is poorly understood. Here, we report the structures of the biologically relevant effector protein–hydroxylase complex of toluene 4-monooxygenase in 2 redox states. The structures reveal a number of coordinated changes that occur up to 25 Å from the active site and poise the diiron center for catalysis. The results provide a structural basis for the changes observed in a number of the measurable properties associated with effector protein binding. This description provides insight into the functional role of effector protein binding in all carboxylate-bridged diiron hydroxylases.