bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spherical Glycopolymer Architectures using RAFT: From Stars with a ?-Cyclodextrin Core to Thermoresponsive Core–Shell Particles
Authors: Zhang Ling , Stenzel Martina H.
Published: August 2009

Glycopolymers with a seven-arm star architectures based on a β-cyclodextrin core (β-CD-RAFT) were successfully prepared using reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. A bimodal molecular weight distribution was observed in the early stages of the polymerization. At monomer conversions of N-acryloyl glucose (AGA) above 10% the polymerization proceeded according to a living behaviour and molecular weights of more than 200000 g mol–1 were obtained. However, the resulting star polymers did not undergo well-controlled chain extension with N-isopropyl acrylamide (NIPAAm) and the formation of block structures in each arm was prevented. Alternatively, the arm-first technique was employed. Block copolymers based on AGA and PNIPAAm were self-assembled into micelles at a solution temperature above the lower critical solution temperature. Subsequent core-crosslinking with hexan-1,6-diol diacrylate resulted in unimolecular micelles with thermoresponsive properties. Dynamic light scattering studies, surface tensiometry, and transmission electron microscopy confirmed the formation of core–shell particles.
Molecularly Imprinted Polymers and Controlled/Living Radical Polymerization
Authors: Bompart Marc , Haupt Karsten
Published: August 2009

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are tailor-made biomimetic receptors that are obtained by polymerization in the presence of molecular templates. They contain binding sites for target molecules with affinities and specificities on a par with those of natural receptors such as antibodies, hormone receptors, or enzymes. A great majority of the literature in the field describes materials based on polymers obtained by free radical polymerization. In order to solve general problems associated with MIPs, in particular their heterogeneity in terms of inner morphology and distribution of binding site affinities, it has been suggested to use modern methods of controlled/living radical polymerization for their synthesis. This also facilitates their generation in the form of nanomaterials, nanocomposites, and thin films, a strong recent trend in the field. The present paper reviews recent advances in the molecular imprinting area, with special emphasis on the use of controlled polymerization methods, their benefits, and current limitations.
Polymer/Carbon Nanotube Composites
Authors: McClory Caroline , Chin Seow Jecg , McNally Tony
Published: August 2009

The unique geometry and extraordinary mechanical, electrical, and thermal conductivity properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) make them ideal candidates as functional fillers for polymeric materials. In this paper we review the advances in both thermoset and thermoplastic CNT composites. The various processing methods used in polymer/CNT composite preparation; solution mixing, in-situ polymerization, electrospinning, and melt blending, are discussed. The role of surface functionalization, including ‘grafting to’ and ‘grafting from’ using atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), radical addition–fragmentation chain transfer polymerization (RAFT), and ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) in aiding dispersion of CNTs in polymers and interfacial stress transfer is highlighted. In addition the effect of CNT type, loading, functionality and alignment on electrical and rheological percolation is summarized. We also demonstrate the effectiveness of both Raman spectroscopy and oscillatory plate rheology as tools to characterize the extent of dispersion of CNTs in polymer matrices. We conclude by briefly discussing the potential applications of polymer/CNT composites and highlight the challenges that remain so that the unique properties of CNTs can be optimally translated to polymer matrices.
Structural waters define a functional channel mediating activation of the GPCR, rhodopsin
Authors: Angel Thomas E. , Gupta Sayan , Jastrzebska Beata , Palczewski Krzysztof , Chance Mark R.
Published: August 2009

Structural water molecules may act as prosthetic groups indispensable for proper protein function. In the case of allosteric activation of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), water likely imparts structural plasticity required for agonist-induced signal transmission. Inspection of structures of GPCR superfamily members reveals the presence of conserved embedded water molecules likely important to GPCR function. Coupling radiolytic hydroxyl radical labeling with rapid H
2
O
18
solvent mixing, we observed no exchange of these structural waters with bulk solvent in either ground state or for the Meta II or opsin states. However, the radiolysis approach permitted labeling of selected side chain residues within the transmembrane helices and revealed activation-induced changes in local structural constraints likely mediated by dynamics of both water and protein. These results suggest both a possible general mechanism for water-dependent communication in family A GPCRs based on structural conservation, and a strategy for probing membrane protein structure.
The epidemiological fitness cost of drug resistance in
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Luciani Fabio , Sisson Scott A. , Jiang Honglin , Francis Andrew R. , Tanaka Mark M.
Published: August 2009

The emergence of antibiotic resistance in
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
has raised the concern that pathogen strains that are virtually untreatable may become widespread. The acquisition of resistance to antibiotics results in a longer duration of infection in a host, but this resistance may come at a cost through a decreased transmission rate. This raises the question of whether the overall fitness of drug-resistant strains is higher than that of sensitive strains—essential information for predicting the spread of the disease. Here, we directly estimate the transmission cost of drug resistance, the rate at which resistance evolves, and the relative fitness of resistant strains. These estimates are made by using explicit models of the transmission and evolution of sensitive and resistant strains of
M. tuberculosis
, using approximate Bayesian computation, and molecular epidemiology data from Cuba, Estonia, and Venezuela. We find that the transmission cost of drug resistance relative to sensitivity can be as low as 10%, that resistance evolves at rates of ≈0.0025–0.02 per case per year, and that the overall fitness of resistant strains is comparable with that of sensitive strains. Furthermore, the contribution of transmission to the spread of drug resistance is very high compared with acquired resistance due to treatment failure (up to 99%). Estimating such parameters directly from in vivo data will be critical to understanding and responding to antibiotic resistance. For instance, projections using our estimates suggest that the prevalence of tuberculosis may decline with successful treatment, but the proportion of cases associated with resistance is likely to increase.
Selective reciprocity in antimicrobial activity versus cytotoxicity of hBD-2 and crotamine
Authors: Yount Nannette Y. , Kupferwasser Deborah , Spisni Alberto , Dutz Stephen M. , Ramjan Zachary H. , Sharma Shantanu , Waring Alan J. , Yeaman Michael R.
Published: August 2009

Recent discoveries suggest cysteine-stabilized toxins and antimicrobial peptides have structure–activity parallels derived by common ancestry. Here, human antimicrobial peptide hBD-2 and rattlesnake venom-toxin crotamine were compared in phylogeny, 3D structure, target cell specificity, and mechanisms of action. Results indicate a striking degree of structural and phylogenetic congruence. Importantly, these polypeptides also exhibited functional reciprocity: (
i
) they exerted highly similar antimicrobial pH optima and spectra; (
ii
) both altered membrane potential consistent with ion channel-perturbing activities; and (
iii
) both peptides induced phosphatidylserine accessibility in eukaryotic cells. However, the Na
v
channel-inhibitor tetrodotoxin antagonized hBD-2 mechanisms, but not those of crotamine. As crotamine targets eukaryotic ion channels, computational docking was used to compare hBD-2 versus crotamine interactions with prototypic bacterial, fungal, or mammalian K
v
channels. Models support direct interactions of each peptide with K
v
channels. However, while crotamine localized to occlude K
v
channels in eukaryotic but not prokaryotic cells, hBD-2 interacted with prokaryotic and eukaryotic K
v
channels but did not occlude either. Together, these results support the hypothesis that antimicrobial and cytotoxic polypeptides have ancestral structure-function homology, but evolved to preferentially target respective microbial versus mammalian ion channels via residue-specific interactions. These insights may accelerate development of anti-infective or therapeutic peptides that selectively target microbial or abnormal host cells.
The inhomogeneous structure of water at ambient conditions
Authors: Huang C. , Wikfeldt K. T. , Tokushima T. , Nordlund D. , Harada Y. , Bergmann U. , Niebuhr M. , Weiss T. M. , Horikawa Y. , Leetmaa M. , Ljungberg M. P. , Takahashi O. , Lenz A. , Ojamäe L. , Lyubartsev A. P. , Shin S. , Pettersson L. G. M. , Nilsson A.
Published: August 2009

Small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) is used to demonstrate the presence of density fluctuations in ambient water on a physical length-scale of ≈1 nm; this is retained with decreasing temperature while the magnitude is enhanced. In contrast, the magnitude of fluctuations in a normal liquid, such as CCl
4
, exhibits no enhancement with decreasing temperature, as is also the case for water from molecular dynamics simulations under ambient conditions. Based on X-ray emission spectroscopy and X-ray Raman scattering data we propose that the density difference contrast in SAXS is due to fluctuations between tetrahedral-like and hydrogen-bond distorted structures related to, respectively, low and high density water. We combine our experimental observations to propose a model of water as a temperature-dependent, fluctuating equilibrium between the two types of local structures driven by incommensurate requirements for minimizing enthalpy (strong near-tetrahedral hydrogen-bonds) and maximizing entropy (nondirectional H-bonds and disorder). The present results provide experimental evidence that the extreme differences anticipated in the hydrogen-bonding environment in the deeply supercooled regime surprisingly remain in bulk water even at conditions ranging from ambient up to close to the boiling point.
Parent–child conflict and psychological maladjustment: A mediational analysis with reciprocal filial belief and perceived threat
Authors: Yeh Kuang‐Hui , Tsao Wei‐Chun , Chen Wei‐Wen
Published: August 2009

Empirical research has shown that parent–child conflict is positively related to poor adjustment in adolescents; however, the underlying processes have not been adequately examined. To explore the possible mediating pathways, reciprocal filial belief and perceived threat were chosen to represent two likely mechanisms accounting for how parent–child conflict harms adolescents' perceptions of their relationship with their parents and their self‐perceptions within their cognitive‐appraisal framework. The former operates by attenuating children's affection towards their parents and the latter by lowering their self‐perceptions. This study also distinguishes internalizing from externalizing problems in order to examine whether lower reciprocal filial belief more strongly mediates the relation between conflict with parents and adolescents' externalizing problems and whether perceived threat more strongly mediates the relation between conflict with parents and adolescents' internalizing problems. Hypotheses are as follows: (1) the more parent–child conflict adolescents report, the less reciprocal filial belief they recognize, which, in turn, leads to more maladjustments, especially externalizing ones; (2) the more parent–child conflicts adolescents report, the more threat they perceive, which, in turn, leads to more maladjustments, especially internalizing ones. Participants consisted of 603 Taiwanese adolescents (226 males and 377 females) aged 15 to 19 (average age=16.95; SD=0.78). Structural equation modelling analyses confirmed the hypotheses. However, the three direct effects of conflict on internalizing problems, aggression, and deviant behaviour were still significant. In addition, a greater effect of the paternal than the maternal role on the link between conflict and attenuated reciprocal filial belief, and between perceived threat and internalizing problems, was identified. Implications for understanding the mediation processes responsible for all indirect effects, even the subsidiary ones, and the greater impact of conflict with the father than with the mother are discussed. Limitations of the study and considerations for future research are also addressed.
Spiritual dimensions of entrepreneurship in Transcendental Meditation and TM‐Sidhi program practitioners
Authors: Norlyk Herriott Eva , Schmidt‐Wilk Jane , Heaton Dennis P.
Published: August 2009

A qualitative study explored features of personal development in a group of entrepreneurs who were long‐term practitioners of the Transcendental Meditation and TM‐Sidhi program. Subjects reported that their meditation practice enabled them to cultivate inner experiences,
which they described as being anchored to an unshakeable, transcendental inner spiritual core. These entrepreneurs reported that this inner experience led to enhanced intuition and to broad awareness that embraced the wider interests of the community and environment. Findings are discussed
with reference to prior scholarship about spirituality in entrepreneurs. This exploratory study contributes to understanding the mechanics through which spiritual values and behaviors might become more fully realized in the workplace.
Spiritual organizations and connectedness: the Living Nature experience
Authors: Pavlovich Kathryn , Doyle Corner Patricia
Published: August 2009

Definitions of spiritual organization include the notion of connectedness but generally consider only connectedness with respect to employees. We extend the notion of connectedness and thereby the definition of what constitutes spiritual organizations by systematically considering other
ways in which organizations can enact connectedness. Classic open systems theory is integrated with the organizational spirituality literature to build a framework that identifies multiple paths to connectedness for a spiritual organization. A case study was chosen for its unusual and distinctive
ability to illustrate this framework and reveals connectedness as it relates to functions connectedness (through international suppliers, accreditation, research and development, marketing and education), and to eco‐systems connectedness, where the organization demonstrates explicit
awareness of social and environmental connectedness. We suggest that together these different forms of connectedness illustrate an awareness of an interdependent connectedness at a deep ecological level.
Meeting the Challenge of Research while Treating Mentally Disordered Offenders: The Future of the Clinical Researcher
Authors: Taylor PamelaJ. , Chilvers Clair , Doyle Mike , Gumpert Clara , Harney Kathryn , Nedopil Norbert
Published: August 2009

Forensic mental health services must be theoretically driven and subject to sound research evaluation if they are to be maximally effective. People who are trained in both clinical and research skills are ideally placed to ensure this, but now the clinician researcher is often under threat, regardless of clinical subject, professional discipline, or even country of residence. Although size is not the only factor, smaller fields, of which forensic mental health is one, tend to be particularly vulnerable. Funding appears to be disproportionately scarce for research into the difficulties and management of offenders who have a mental disorder, with some avenues, such as dedicated charitable funding, absent altogether. A range of the challenges and some possible solutions are considered with particular reference to Germany, Sweden, and the UK. It is as vital to good clinical practice as to the future of research to have the means to attract young scientists into the field.
Qualify of Life of Forensic Psychiatric Inpatients
Authors: van Nieuwenhuizen Chijs , Nijman Henk
Published: August 2009

In this article, the quality of life (QoL) of mentally disordered offenders was investigated. The data of 44 forensic psychiatric inpatients were analyzed using the Lancashire Quality of Life Profile (LQoLP), Rehabilitation Evaluation Hall and Baker (REHAB), and the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R). Outcome on the LQoLP was compared with data of hospitalized male psychiatric patients. Results show that the QoL of forensic psychiatric inpatients was particularly low as to their living conditions and their health. However, compared to general psychiatric patients they encountered fewer problems with envisioning their life as having some meaningful perspective. On six of the ten domains, nonpsychotic forensic psychiatric patients reported a lower, though nonsignificant, QoL as compared to the psychotic forensic psychiatric patients. Between psychopathic and nonpsychopathic forensic psychiatric patients no significant differences were found. A trend was found for the domain finances for which nonpsychopaths reported a lower quality of life. Our hypothesis that patients with a lower level of functioning will report a lower QoL was not confirmed in this study. However, a significant correlation between general behavior and global well-being was found. Future studies should further investigate the relation between quality of life of forensic psychiatric patients and recidivism, to gain more insight in whether (certain aspects of) QoL are associated with lower recidivism risks in the long run.
Violence Severity and Psychosis
Authors: Green Bob , Schramm T.Mark , Chiu Katrina , McVie Ness , Hay Steven
Published: August 2009

To examine whether severity of violence was associated with specific types of psychotic symptoms a retrospective file review of men found of unsound mind by the Queensland Mental Health Tribunal was conducted. The association between symptoms and three levels of violence were examined. Capgras delusions and command hallucinations were associated with homicide; acute danger; and threat/control-override symptoms with serious violence, and grandiose delusions with assault occasioning bodily harm. When previous violence and substance use were controlled, the symptom variables remained significant predictors. Victims were more likely to be known when violence was more serious. The study provides support for the role of psychotic symptoms as one factor that may account for the relationship between mental illness and increased violence risk.
Measuring Attitudes toward the Insanity Defense in Venirepersons: Refining the IDA-R in the Evaluation of Juror Bias
Authors: Vitacco MichaelJ. , Malesky L.Alvin , Erickson Steven , Leslie William , Croysdale Allison , Bloechl Angela
Published: August 2009

The negative attitude against the insanity defense held by venirepersons has a direct effect on individuals with mental illness who are in contact with the criminal justice system. Identifying factors in jurors that support negative attitudes is critical in trying to ensure that the insanity defense is given full consideration when pleaded by people with mental illnesses. This article used the Insanity Defense Attitude scale-Revised (IDA-R; Skeem, Louden, & Evans, 2004 ) to evaluate attitudes and factors supporting bias in 239 venirepersons. Through the use of confirmatory factor analyses a refined factor model was developed for the IDA-R, which was cross-validated on a sample of 567 undergraduates. Greater support for the death penalty and higher perception of insanity defense use were both related to a more negative attitude toward the insanity defense. Implications for jury selection and the fair treatment of individuals with mental illness are discussed.
Neglecting the mental health of prisoners
Authors: Edgar K. , Rickford D.
Published: August 2009

From first contact with the police to release from prison, people with mental ill health who come into conflict with the law often find that their mental health needs are neglected while they are under the authority of the criminal justice system. In 2008, the Prison Reform Trust surveyed independent monitoring boards in England and Wales, asking them to comment on mental health care. Topics included the adequacy of court diversion schemes, assessments carried out in prison reception units, and preparations to ensure continuity of care upon release. The responses documented some of the consequences of neglect in prisons in England and Wales. Over half of the boards felt that they frequently saw prisoners who were too ill to be in prison. Boards also expressed concerns about assessment processes in prison reception areas, which were by no means adequate to identify mental health problems. A number of boards stated that, too often, people with severe mental illnesses are held in segregation units, where they endure an impoverished regime. The boards observed that many prisons lack any means of identifying people who have learning disabilities, and often their disabilities restrict their capacity to engage fully with the regime.
Lord Bradley’s review of people with mental health or learning disabilities in the criminal justice system in England: All not equal in the eyes of the law?
Authors: Brooker C , Gojkovic D. , Sirdifield C. , Fox C.
Published: August 2009

In December 2007, Lord Bradley was asked by the Government, in a six‐month period, to review court liaison and diversion schemes for mentally ill people. A year and a half later, and having extended the brief to encompass the entire criminal justice system, Lord Bradley has reported. The Government has now responded to Bradleys’ findings (Ministry of Justice, 2009) so it is timely to comment on the review particularly in relation to prisons in England. The English prison population is almost at its highest ever level and currently stands at around 82,000 people ‐ according to the Prison Service’s standard of certified normal accommodation, the prison population is now 8000 more than it should be. As HM Chief Inspector of Prisons, Anne Owers, has noted ‘activity and support from staff . . . were the two things thought to be most helpful by prisoners with mental health and emotional problems, in over‐crowded and under‐resourced prisons these essential elements of care are at a premium’ (HM Inspectorate of Prisons, 2007).
The role of audiovisual asynchrony in person recognition
Authors: Robertson David M. C. , Schweinberger Stefan R.
Published: August 2009

Audiovisual integration (AVI) has been demonstrated to play a major role in speech comprehension. Previous research suggests that AVI in speech comprehension tolerates a temporal window of audiovisual asynchrony. However, few studies have employed audiovisual presentation to investigate AVI in person recognition. Here, participants completed an audiovisual voice familiarity task in which the synchrony of the auditory and visual stimuli was manipulated, and in which visual speaker identity could be corresponding or noncorresponding to the voice. Recognition of personally familiar voices systematically improved when corresponding visual speakers were presented near synchrony or with slight auditory lag. Moreover, when faces of different familiarity were presented with a voice, recognition accuracy suffered at near synchrony to slight auditory lag only. These results provide the first evidence for a temporal window for AVI in person recognition between approximately 100 ms auditory lead and 300 ms auditory lag.
ASCOT simulations of fast ion power loads to the plasma-facing components in ITER
Authors: Kurki-Suonio T. , Asunta O. , Hellsten T. , Hynönen V. , Johnson T. , Koskela T. , Lönnroth J. , Parail V. , Roccella M. , Saibene G. , Salmi A. , Sipilä S.
Published: August 2009

The wall loads due to fusion alphas as well as neutral beam injection- and ICRF-generated fast ions were simulated for ITER reference scenario-2 and scenario-4 including the effects of ferritic inserts (FIs), test blanket modules (TBMs), and 3D wall with two limiter structures. The simulations were carried out using the Monte Carlo guiding-centre orbit-following code ASCOT. The FIs were found very effective in ameliorating the detrimental effects of the toroidal ripple: the fast ion wall loads are reduced practically to their negligible axisymmetric level. The thermonuclear alpha particles overwhelmingly dominate the wall power flux. In scenario-4 practically all the power goes to the limiters, while in scenario-2 the load is fairly evenly divided between the divertor and the limiter, with hardly any power flux to other components in the first wall. This is opposite to earlier results, where hot spots were observed with 2D wall (Tobita et al 2003 Fusion Eng. Des.
65 561–8). In contrast, uncompensated ripple leads to unacceptable peak power fluxes of 0.5 MW m−2 in scenario-2 and 1 MW m−2 in scenario-4, with practically all power hitting the limiters and substantial flux arriving even at the unprotected first wall components. The local TBM structures were found to perturb the magnetic field structure globally and lead to increased wall loads. However, the TBM simulation results overestimate the TBM contribution due to an over-simplification in the vacuum field. Therefore the TBM results should be considered as an upper limit.
Comparative divertor-transport study for helical devices
Authors: Feng Y. , Kobayashi M. , Sardei F. , Masuzaki S. , Kisslinger J. , Morisaki T. , Grigull P. , Yamada H. , McCormick K. , Ohyabu N. , König R. , Yamada I. , Giannone L. , Narihara K. , Wenzel U. , Morita S. , Thomsen H. , Miyazawa J. , Hildebrandt D. , Watanabe T. , Wagner F. , Ashikawa N. , Ida K. , Komori A. , Motojima O. , Nakamura Y. , Peterson B.J. , Sato K. , Shoji M. , Tamura N. , Tokitani M.
Published: August 2009

Using the island divertors (IDs) of W7-AS and W7-X and the helical divertor (HD) of LHD as examples, the paper presents a comparative divertor transport study for three typical helical devices of different machine sizes following two distinct divertor concepts, aiming at identifying common physics issues/effects for mutual validation and combined studies. Based on EMC3/EIRENE simulations supported by experimental results, the paper first reviews and compares the essential transport features of the W7-AS ID and the LHD HD in order to build a base and framework for a predictive study of W7-X. The fundamental role of low-order magnetic islands in both divertor concepts is emphasized. Preliminary EMC3/EIRENE simulation results for W7-X are presented and discussed with respect to W7-AS and LHD in order to show how the individual field and divertor topologies affect the divertor transport and performance. For instance, a high recycling regime, which is absent from W7-AS and LHD, is predicted to exist for W7-X. The paper focuses on identifying and understanding the role of divertors for high density plasma operations in helical devices. In this regard, special attention is paid to investigating the divertor function for controlling intrinsic impurities. Impurity transport behaviour and wall-sputtering processes of CX-neutrals are studied under different divertor plasma conditions. A divertor retention effect on intrinsic impurities at high SOL collisonalities is predicted for all the three devices. The required SOL plasma conditions and the underlying mechanisms are analysed in detail. Numerical results are discussed in conjunction with the experimental observations for high density divertor plasmas in W7-AS and LHD. Different SOL transport regimes are numerically identified for the standard divertor configuration of W7-X and the possible consequences on high density plasmas are assessed. All the EMC3-EIRENE simulations presented in this paper are based on vacuum fields and comparisons with local diagnostics are made for low-ß plasmas.
Ideal magnetohydrodynamic simulations of low beta compact toroid injection into a hot strongly magnetized plasma
Authors: Liu Wei , Hsu Scott C , Li Hui
Published: August 2009

We present results from three-dimensional ideal magnetohydrodynamic simulations of low β compact toroid (CT) injection into a hot strongly magnetized plasma, with the aim of providing insight into CT fuelling of a tokamak with parameters relevant for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). A regime is identified in terms of CT injection speed and CT-to-background magnetic field ratio that appears promising for precise core fuelling. Shock-dominated regimes, which are probably unfavourable for tokamak fuelling, are also identified. The CT penetration depth is proportional to the CT injection speed and density. The entire CT evolution can be divided into three stages: (1) initial penetration, (2) compression in the direction of propagation and reconnection with the background magnetic field, and (3) coming to rest and spreading in the direction perpendicular to injection. Tilting of the CT is not observed due to the fast transit time of the CT across the background plasma.
English Commercial Banks and Organizational Inertia: The Financing of SMEs, 1944–1960
Authors: Baker Mae , Collins Michael
Published: August 2009

This article is a study in the strength of shared strategic beliefs amongst leading British clearing bankers in the years following World War II and how those common beliefs may have inhibited potential for market growth. The subject of the study is the performance of large British deposit bankswith respect to the financing of industry. This behavior has long been criticized by economic historians as suboptimal and, depending on the commentator, has been presented variously as evidence of entrepreneurial failure, the gentrification of the City, social schism amongst the economic and social elite, the political influence of City institutions, the external orientation of capital markets, or institutional sclerosis. However, in earlier studies we have offered a rational economic explanation of the banks' behavior and practices in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
The importance of lipid-rich fish prey for Cape gannet chick growth: are fishery discards an alternative?
Authors: Mullers Ralf H. E. , Navarro René A. , Crawford Robert J. M. , Underhill Les G.
Published: August 2009

Mullers, R. H. E., Navarro, R. A., Crawford, R. J. M., and Underhill, L. G. 2009. The importance of lipid-rich fish prey for Cape gannet chick growth: are fishery discards an alternative? – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 2244–2252. A recent decline in population numbers of Cape gannets (Morus capensis) breeding off the west coast of South Africa coincided with decreased availability of lipid-rich fish prey: anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) and sardine (Sardinops sagax). Seabirds can use fishery discards as an alternative, but the quality of this food in the Benguela ecosystem is lower than that of their natural prey species. We consider whether chick growth and survival during chick rearing co-vary with the periods of high and low availability of their lipid-rich prey species and whether fishery discards would be an alternative. The proportion of anchovy and sardine in the diet was between 66 and 84% in the years 1986–1988, but just 16–35% from 2004 to 2006. Months with large proportions of anchovy and sardine in the diet were associated with faster chick growth. No association between the proportion of fishery discards in the diet and chick growth was found. The patterns are consistent with the notion that a distributional shift of anchovy and sardine decreased their contribution to the diet of Cape gannets and slowed chick growth along with lessening chick survival at the breeding colony. The reduced survival may partially explain the decline in numbers of Cape gannets breeding in the southern Benguela.
Cilium-independent regulation of Gli protein function by Sufu in Hedgehog signaling is evolutionarily conserved
Authors: Chen Miao-Hsueh , Wilson Christopher W. , Li Ya-Jun , Law Kelvin King Lo , Lu Chi-Sheng , Gacayan Rhodora , Zhang Xiaoyun , Hui Chi-chung , Chuang Pao-Tien
Published: August 2009

A central question in Hedgehog (Hh) signaling is how evolutionarily conserved components of the pathway might use the primary cilium in mammals but not fly. We focus on Suppressor of fused (Sufu), a major Hh regulator in mammals, and reveal that Sufu controls protein levels of full-length Gli transcription factors, thus affecting the production of Gli activators and repressors essential for graded Hh responses. Surprisingly, despite ciliary localization of most Hh pathway components, regulation of Gli protein levels by Sufu is cilium-independent. We propose that Sufu-dependent processes in Hh signaling are evolutionarily conserved. Consistent with this, Sufu regulates Gli protein levels by antagonizing the activity of Spop, a conserved Gli-degrading factor. Furthermore, addition of zebrafish or fly Sufu restores Gli protein function in Sufu-deficient mammalian cells. In contrast, fly Smo is unable to translocate to the primary cilium and activate the mammalian Hh pathway. We also uncover a novel positive role of Sufu in regulating Hh signaling, resulting from its control of both Gli activator and repressor function. Taken together, these studies delineate important aspects of cilium-dependent and cilium-independent Hh signal transduction and provide significant mechanistic insight into Hh signaling in diverse species.
Lessons from X-chromosome inactivation: long ncRNA as guides and tethers to the epigenome
Authors: Lee Jeannie T.
Published: August 2009

Transcriptome studies are revealing that the eukaryotic genome actively transcribes a diverse repertoire of large noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), many of which are unannotated and distinct from the small RNAs that have garnered much attention in recent years. Why are they so pervasive, and do they have a function? X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) is a classic epigenetic phenomenon associated with many large ncRNAs. Here, I provide a perspective on how XCI is achieved in mice and suggest how this knowledge can be applied to the rest of the genome. Emerging data indicate that long ncRNAs can function as guides and tethers, and may be the molecules of choice for epigenetic regulation: First, unlike proteins and small RNAs, large ncRNAs remain tethered to the site of transcription, and can therefore uniquely direct allelic regulation. Second, ncRNAs command a much larger sequence space than proteins, and can therefore achieve very precise spatiotemporal control of development. These properties imply that long noncoding transcripts may ultimately rival small RNAs and proteins in their versatility as epigenetic regulators, particularly for locus- and allele-specific control.
Variations in Hedgehog signaling: divergence and perpetuation in Sufu regulation of Gli: Figure 1.
Authors: Ruel Laurent , Thérond Pascal P.
Published: August 2009

The Hedgehog (Hh) proteins play a universal role in metazoan development. Nevertheless, fundamental differences exist between Drosophila and vertebrates in the transduction of the Hh signal, notably regarding the role of primary cilia in mammalian cells. In this issue of Genes & Development, Chen and colleagues (pp. 1910–1928) demonstrate that mouse Suppressor of fused (Sufu) regulates the stability of the transcription factors Gli2 and Gli3 by antagonizing the conserved Gli degradation device mediated by Hib/Spop in a cilia-independent manner.
Increased telomere fragility and fusions resulting from TRF1 deficiency lead to degenerative pathologies and increased cancer in mice
Authors: Martínez Paula , Thanasoula Maria , Muñoz Purificación , Liao Chunyan , Tejera Agueda , McNees Carolyn , Flores Juana M. , Fernández-Capetillo Oscar , Tarsounas Madalena , Blasco Maria A.
Published: August 2009

The telomere repeat-binding factor 1 (TERF1, referred to hereafter as TRF1) is a component of mammalian telomeres whose role in telomere biology and disease has remained elusive. Here, we report on cells and mice conditionally deleted for TRF1. TRF1-deleted mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) show rapid induction of senescence, which is concomitant with abundant telomeric γ-H2AX foci and activation of the ATM/ATR downstream checkpoint kinases CHK1 and CHK2. DNA damage foci are rescued by both ATM and ATM/ATR inhibitors, further indicating that both signaling pathways are activated upon TRF1 deletion. Abrogation of the p53 and RB pathways bypasses senescence but leads to chromosomal instability including sister chromatid fusions, chromosome concatenation, and occurrence of multitelomeric signals (MTS). MTS are also elevated in ATR-deficient MEFs or upon treatment with aphidicolin, two conditions known to induce breakage at fragile sites, suggesting that TRF1-depleted telomeres are prone to breakage. To address the impact of these molecular defects in the organism, we deleted TRF1 in stratified epithelia of TRF1Δ/ΔK5-Cre mice. These mice die perinatally and show skin hyperpigmentation and epithelial dysplasia, which are associated with induction of telomere-instigated DNA damage, activation of the p53/p21 and p16 pathways, and cell cycle arrest in vivo. p53 deficiency rescues mouse survival but leads to development of squamous cell carcinomas, demonstrating that TRF1 suppresses tumorigenesis. Together, these results demonstrate that dysfunction of a telomere-binding protein is sufficient to produce severe telomeric damage in the absence of telomere shortening, resulting in premature tissue degeneration and development of neoplastic lesions.
Biomass and leaf‐level gas exchange characteristics of three African savanna C4 grass species under optimum growth conditions
Authors: Mantlana K. B. , Veenendaal E. M. , Arneth A. , Grispen V. , Bonyongo C. M. , Heitkonig I. G. , Lloyd J.
Published: August 2009

C4 savanna grass species, Digitaria eriantha, Eragrostis lehmanniana and Panicum repens, were grown under optimum growth conditions with the aim of characterizing their above‐ and below‐ground biomass allocation and the response of their gas exchange to changes in light intensity, CO2 concentration and leaf‐to‐air vapour pressure deficit gradient (Dl). Digitaria eriantha showed the largest above‐ and below‐ground biomass, high efficiency in carbon gain under light‐limiting conditions, high water use efficiency (WUE) and strong stomatal sensitivity to Dl (P = 0.002; r2 = 0.5). Panicum repens had a high aboveground biomass and attained high light saturated photosynthetic rates (Asat, 47 μmol m−2 s−1), stomatal conductance, (gsat, 0.25 mol m−2 s−1) at relatively high WUE. Eragrostis lehmanniana had almost half the biomass of other species, and had similar Asat and gsat but were attained at lower WUE than the other species. This species also showed the weakest stomatal response to Dl (P = 0.19, r2 = 0. 1). The potential ecological significance of the contrasting patterns of biomass allocation and variations in gas exchange parameters among the species are discussed.
Seasonal variation in reproductive behaviour of bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus Pallas, 1766) in an equatorial savannah ecosystem
Authors: Apio Ann , Muwanika Vincent B. , Plath Martin , Wronski Torsten
Published: August 2009

While several authors suggest that bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus Pallas) from tropical areas with an approximately bimodal rainfall pattern breed throughout the year, there is also a report of seasonal breeding in this species. In this study, we provide indirect evidence of seasonality in reproduction by analysing behavioural data (e.g. rates of mixed‐sex sightings) in a population of bushbuck inhabiting an equatorial savannah ecosystem in western Uganda. Observation rates of mixed‐sex sightings were correlated with rainfall patterns. We suggest that peaks in reproductive behaviour following the wet season may be advantageous if calves are born during the next wet season, when fresh vegetation is available.
Effects of ontogeny, temperature, and light on vertical movements of larval Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus)
Authors: HURST THOMAS P. , COOPER DANIEL W. , SCHEINGROSS JOEL S. , SEALE ERIN M. , LAUREL BENJAMIN J. , SPENCER MARA L.
Published: August 2009

The role of behavior, especially vertical migration, is recognized as a critical component of realistic models of larval fish dispersion. Unfortunately, our understanding of these behaviors lags well behind our ability to construct three‐dimensional flow‐field models. Previous field studies of vertical behavior of larval Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) were limited to small, preflexion stages (≤11 mm SL) in a narrow range of thermal conditions. To develop a more complete picture of larval behavior, we examined the effects of ontogeny, temperature, and light on vertical responses of larval Pacific cod in experimental columns. While eggs were strictly demersal, yolk‐sac larvae displayed a strong surface orientation as early as 1 day post hatch (∼ 5 mm SL). Consistent with field observations, small preflexion larvae (<10 mm SL) showed no response to varying light levels. However, there was a direct effect of temperature on larval behavior: Pacific cod larvae exhibited a stronger surface orientation at 4°C than at 8°C. The behavior of larger, postflexion larvae (>15 mm SL) in experimental columns was consistent with a diel vertical migration and independent of water temperature: fish were more widely distributed in the column, and median positions were consistently deeper at higher light levels. These laboratory observations are combined with observations from discrete‐depth (MOCNESS) sampling in the Gulf of Alaska to characterize the vertical distribution of larval Pacific cod and contrast ontogenetic patterns with walleye pollock (Theragra chalcogramma). The vertical movements of larval Pacific cod described here will be applied in the development of dispersal projections from Gulf of Alaska spawning grounds.
Long‐term stock assessment and growth changes of the Japanese sardine (Sardinops melanostictus) in the Sea of Japan and East China Sea from 1953 to 2006
Authors: OHSHIMO SEIJI , TANAKA HIROSHIGE , HIYAMA YOSHIAKI
Published: August 2009

We estimated the stock size of Japanese sardine (Sardinops melanostictus) in the Sea of Japan and East China Sea since 1953 using cohort analysis based on the changes of growth patterns. Growth of Japanese sardine, estimated by using annual rings on archived scales since 1961, showed that body lengths were extremely stunted in the 1980–1987 year‐classes. The body length at age 3 from February to April in the 1980–1987 year‐classes, a period when the stock size exceeded 4 million tons, was 180.0 ± 2.6 mm (mean ± SD), and in the other year‐classes was 195.1 ± 7.6 mm. The body length at age 3 and wet weight of zooplankton in August in the offshore area of the Sea of Japan had a significantly positive correlation. We assumed three scenarios for maturation ratios, and estimated Ricker’s spawner–recruitment relationships. We analyzed the correlations between logarithmic recruitment residuals (LNRR) and environmental factors in winter, represented by the North Pacific index (NPI), Aleutian low pressure index (ALPI), Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO), monsoon index (MOI), Arctic oscillation (AO) and Southern oscillation index (SOI). Significant correlations were observed between MOI and LNRR and between AO and LNRR. A combination of strong MOI and weak AO would increase the biomass of phytoplankton and zooplankton and subsequently increase the recruitment of Japanese sardine.
Predicting avian patch occupancy in a fragmented landscape: do we know more than we think?
Authors: Shanahan Danielle F. , Possingham Hugh P.
Published: August 2009

1. A recent and controversial topic in landscape ecology is whether populations of species respond to habitat fragmentation in a general fashion. Empirical research has provided mixed support, resulting in controversy about the use of general rules in landscape management. Rather than simply assessing post hoc whether individual species follow such rules, a priori testing could shed light on their accuracy and utility for predicting species response to landscape change.

2. We aim to create an a priori model that predicts the presence or absence of multiple species in habitat patches. Our goal is to balance general theory with relevant species life‐history traits to obtain high prediction accuracy. To increase the utility of this work, we aim to use accessible methods that can be applied using readily available inexpensive resources.

3. The classification tree patch‐occupancy model we create for birds is based on habitat suitability, minimum area requirements, dispersal potential of each species and overall landscape connectivity.

4. To test our model we apply it to the South East Queensland region, Australia, for 17 bird species with varying dispersal potential and habitat specialization. We test the accuracy of our predictions using presence–absence information for 55 vegetation patches.

5. Overall we achieve Cohen’s kappa of 0·33, or ‘fair’ agreement between the model predictions and test data sets, and generally a very high level of absence prediction accuracy. Habitat specialization appeared to influence the accuracy of the model for different species.

6. We also compare the a priori model to the statistically derived model for each species. Although this ‘optimal model’ generally differed from our original predictive model, the process revealed ways in which it could be improved for future attempts.

7. Synthesis and applications. Our study demonstrates that ecological generalizations alongside basic resources (a vegetation map and some species‐specific information) can provide conservative accuracy for predicting species occupancy in remnant vegetation patches. We show that the process of testing and developing models based on general rules could provide basic tools for conservation managers to understand the impact of current or planned landscape change on wildlife populations.
Nutritional stress affects the tsetse fly's immune gene expression
Authors: AKODA K. , VAN DEN BOSSCHE P. , MARCOTTY T. , KUBI C. , COOSEMANS M. , DE DEKEN R. , VAN DEN ABBEELE J.
Published: August 2009

Tsetse‐transmitted trypanosomiasis poses a serious threat to human and animal health in sub‐Saharan Africa. The majority of tsetse flies (Glossina spp.) in a natural population will not develop a mature infection of either Trypanosoma congolense or Trypanosoma brucei sp. because of refractoriness, a phenomenon that is affected by different factors, including the tsetse fly's immune defence. Starvation of tsetse flies significantly increases their susceptibility to the establishment of a trypanosome infection. This paper reports the effects of nutritional stress (starvation) on (a) uninduced baseline levels of gene expression of the antimicrobial peptides attacin, defensin and cecropin in the tsetse fly, and (b) levels of expression induced in response to bacterial (Escherichia coli) or trypanosomal challenge. In newly emerged, unfed tsetse flies, starvation significantly lowers baseline levels of antimicrobial peptide gene expression, especially for attacin and cecropin. In response to trypanosome challenge, only non‐starved older flies showed a significant increase in antimicrobial peptide gene expression within 5 days of ingestion of a trypanosome‐containing bloodmeal, especially with T. brucei bloodstream forms. These data suggest that a decreased expression of immune genes in newly hatched flies or a lack of immune responsiveness to trypanosomes in older flies, both occurring as a result of fly starvation, may be among the factors contributing to the increased susceptibility of nutritionally stressed tsetse flies to trypanosome infection.