bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orientation and 3D modelling from markerless terrestrial images: combining accuracy with automation
Authors: Barazzetti Luigi , Scaioni Marco , Remondino Fabio
Published: December 2010

In this paper an automated methodology is presented (i) to orient a set of close‐range images captured with a calibrated camera, and (ii) to extract dense and accurate point clouds starting from the estimated orientation parameters. The whole procedure combines different algorithms and techniques in order to obtain accurate 3D reconstructions in an automatic way. The exterior orientation parameters are estimated using a photogrammetric bundle adjustment with the image correspondences detected using area‐ and feature‐based matching algorithms. Surface measurements are then performed using advanced multi‐image matching techniques based on multiple image primitives. To demonstrate the reliability, precision and robustness of the procedure, several tests on different kinds of free‐form objects are illustrated and discussed in the paper. Three‐dimensional comparisons with range‐based data are also carried out.
High resolution topographic model of Panarea Island by fusion of photogrammetric, lidar and bathymetric digital terrain models
Authors: Fabris Massimo , Baldi Paolo , Anzidei Marco , Pesci Arianna , Bortoluzzi Giovanni , Aliani Stefano
Published: December 2010

Aerial digital photogrammetry and laser scanning (lidar) and marine multibeam bathymetry can play a fundamental role in the generation of digital terrain models (DTMs) of land and submarine areas, respectively. Integrating these survey techniques is crucial for providing accurate and homogeneous DTMs along narrow coastal zones that often cannot be adequately surveyed owing to logistical limitations on collecting bathymetric data in shallow water. In this project, three aerial photogrammetric surveys, two multibeam bathymetric surveys and a lidar survey were analysed and integrated in the same reference system in order to generate the first 3D high resolution “digital terrain and marine model” (DTMM) of the volcanic island of Panarea (Aeolian Islands, Italy). This is a volcanically active area that underwent a submarine gas eruption in November 2002, and produced impacts on the environment as well as potential hazards for the local population. The DTMM shows the morphological features of this volcanic area with an average grid resolution of 1 m and a maximum elevation error of 1 m. This model will significantly improve geophysical and geomorphological studies of this volcanic island and assist in reducing future hazards.
The IGN CAMv2 System
Authors: Souchon Jean‐Philippe , Thom Christian , Meynard Christophe , Martin Olivier , Pierrot‐Deseilligny Marc
Published: December 2010

After 10 years of pioneering aerial digital camera development, IGN’s CAMv2 project began in 2006 with the main goal of upgrading the then current system. This had been used for research applications since 1996 in more than six different configurations and in production since 2003 configured with four coloured channels. The new system is still highly modular, enabling combinations of several “basic components”, each consisting of one digital camera head with its storage and control unit. The new camera head was developed around the Kodak KAF‐39 000, 39‐megapixel array sensor (7216 × 5412 pixels). The system is also very versatile thanks to the possible choice of more than 10 different lenses (from 35 mm up to 180 mm focal length) and interchangeable spectral filters. The mechanical and electronic designs have been reduced in size so as to permit many different configurations including multiple camera heads on the same gyro‐stabilised mount. The combination of the performance of camera heads and control and storage units allows a frame rate of one image per 2 s with storage redundancy and 1 s without, leading to a minimum ground sample distance (GSD) of about 9 cm with 60% overlap at an airspeed of 100 m/s. In order to use the new system to best advantage, the adjustment and calibration processes had to be improved. During the summer of 2009, three systems configured for colour imagery, each using four nadir‐viewing camera heads (RGB and NIR), were used to acquire images for IGN production work. In January 2009, an eight‐camera‐head configuration was tested in order to achieve 155‐megapixel pan‐sharpened images with a pan‐sharpening ratio of 2 × 2, and a final swath width of about 14 400 pixels. At that time this configuration needed two windows in the aircraft, but it is now installed on a single, bigger mount.
Epipolar arrangement of satellite imagery by projection trajectory simplification
Authors: Wang Mi , Hu Fen , Li Jonathan
Published: December 2010

This paper presents an efficient algorithm for approximate epipolar image generation from stereoscopic satellite images by projection trajectory simplification. In this algorithm, the original non‐linear projection trajectory is simplified to a linear one by the least squares line fitting of sample points selected from the projection trajectory. The performance of the algorithm is evaluated using IRS‐P5, SPOT5‐HRG and IKONOS stereo‐images acquired in different stereoscopic imaging modes over different terrain types. The results obtained indicate that the vertical parallax of each pair of conjugate image points on the epipolar images thus generated achieves accuracy at the sub‐pixel level.
Multiple close‐range image matching based on a self‐adaptive triangle constraint
Authors: Zhu Qing , Zhang Yunsheng , Wu Bo , Zhang Yeting
Published: December 2010

Reliable image matching is an essential and difficult task in digital photogrammetry and computer vision. Possible problems from geometric distortions, illumination changes, scale changes and difficult texture conditions will result in matching ambiguity, especially for close‐range image matching. This paper presents a multiple close‐range image matching method for surface reconstruction based on a self‐adaptive triangle constraint. This method features two aspects. First, the triangles constructed from the previously matched interest points provide strong geometric constraints for the subsequent point matching combined with gradient orientation and disparity constraints. The dynamic update of the triangulation adapts automatically to the changes of image textures. Secondly, a consistency check in object space is performed to remove possible mismatches. Using three sets of actual triple overlapped close‐range images for the experiment, the results revealed that the proposed method provides improved matching reliability.
Trace Minerals in Patients with End‐Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Kasama Richard K.
Published: December 2010

The kidneys are famously responsible for maintaining external balance of prevalent minerals, such as sodium, chloride, and potassium. The kidney’s role in handling trace minerals is more obscure to most nephrologists. Similarly, the impact of kidney failure on trace mineral metabolism is difficult to anticipate. The associated dietary modifications and dialysis create the potential for trace mineral deficiencies and intoxications. Indeed, there are numerous reports of dialysis‐associated mishaps causing mineral intoxication, notable for the challenge of assigning causation. Equally challenging has been the recognition of mineral deficiency syndromes, amid what is often a cacophony of multiple comorbidities that vie for the attention of clinicians who care for patients with chronic kidney disease. In this paper, I review a variety of minerals, some of which are required for maintenance of normal human physiology (the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s list of essential minerals), and some that have attracted attention in the care of dialysis patients. For each mineral, I will discuss its role in normal physiology and will review reported deficiency and toxicity states. I will point out the interesting inter‐relationships between several of the elements. Finally, I will address the special concerns of aluminum and magnesium as they pertain to the dialysis population.
Radiation Exposure in Dialysis Access‐Related Procedures Decreases with Increase in Number of Procedures Performed by the Interventional Nephrologist
Authors: Dukkipati Ramanath , Tammewar Gautam , Kalantar‐Zadeh Kamyar , Dhamija Rajiv
Published: December 2010

An appreciation of the inherent risks with radiation exposure to patients and to the physician performing the procedure and the staff is urgently needed. The objective of this study is to assess radiation exposure to both patients and interventional nephrologists performing procedures and see any trends in the procedure and fluoroscopy times over a 2‐year period. A total of 400 procedures performed at our vascular access center by a new to practice interventional nephrologist were recorded and retrospectively analyzed. Fluoroscopic time and procedure time for various procedures over the course of 2 years were recorded. This data were subsequently separated into eight groups (four quarters per year) based on the date of the procedure. Our study demonstrates a decrease in mean and median fluoroscopy times and procedure times for newly trained interventional with gain in number of procedures. The mean fluoroscopy time for the first two quarters was 5 minutes and 4 seconds, and the median was 3 minutes and 37 seconds. The mean procedure time for the first two quarters was 38 minutes, and the median was 32 minutes. The mean fluoroscopy time for the last two quarters was 1 minute and 54 seconds, and the median was 1 minute and 26 seconds. The mean procedure time for the last two quarters was 27 minutes, and the median was 21 minutes. In conclusion, gain of experience by the practicing Interventional Nephrologist from performing an increasing number of procedures leads to decreased procedure times and fluoroscopy times, which lowers the risk of radiation.
Iatrogenic Graft to Vein Fistula (GVF) Formation Associated with Synthetic Arteriovenous Grafts
Authors: Haddad Nabil J. , Vachharajani Tushar J. , Van Cleef Sheri , Agarwal Anil K.
Published: December 2010

The prevalence of fistulous connection between arteriovenous graft (AVG) and an adjacent vein resulting in graft‐vein fistula (GVF) formation is not established. AVG venous outflow stenosis along with repeated and traumatic cannulation is likely major contributing factor of this complication. Detection and resolution of venous outflow stenosis may be the only needed intervention. We report a series of eight cases with GVF formation between AVG and adjacent veins. Awareness of this complication and intervention to relieve stenotic lesions may result in improved AVG survival.
The Catheter‐Challenged Patient and the Need to Recognize the Recurrently Dysfunctional Tunneled Dialysis Catheter
Authors: Rasmussen Randall L.
Published: December 2010

Tunneled dialysis catheters (TDC) become dysfunctional because of placement problems, infection, thrombosis, and fibrin sheath formation. Occasional patients who are catheter dependant develop frequent catheter dysfunction because of thrombosis or thrombosis associated with fibrin sheath formation. This article attempts to define which dysfunctional catheters because of thrombosis and thrombosis associated with fibrin sheath formation actually represent a recurrently dysfunctional TDC (RDC) and puts forth an approach to managing the RDC.
ORGANIC CARBON SUPPLEMENTATION OF STERILIZED MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER IS ESSENTIAL FOR HETEROTROPHIC GROWTH AND REMOVING AMMONIUM BY THE MICROALGA CHLORELLA VULGARIS1
Authors: Perez‐Garcia Octavio , Bashan Yoav , Esther Puente Maria
Published: December 2010

Heterotrophic growth of the microalga Chlorella vulgaris Beij. in synthetic as well as sterilized municipal wastewater of a nonindustrialized city was measured. The city wastewater contained high levels of ammonium and nitrate, medium levels of phosphate, and low levels of nitrite and organic molecules and could not support heterotrophic growth of C. vulgaris. Evaluation of 11 known carbon sources for this microalga that were added to standard synthetic wastewater containing the same levels of nitrogen and phosphorus as the municipal wastewater revealed that the best carbon sources for heterotrophic growth were Na‐acetate and d‐glucose. These provided the highest growth rates and the largest removal of ammonium. Growth increased with concentration of the supplement to an optimum at 0.12 M Na‐acetate. This carbon source was consumed completely within 10 d of incubation. Higher concentrations inhibited the growth of C. vulgaris. The microalgal populations under heterotrophic growth conditions were one level of magnitude higher than that under autotrophic growth conditions that served as a comparison. No growth occurred in the dark in the absence of a carbon source. Na‐acetate was superior to d‐glucose. In municipal wastewater, when Na‐acetate or d‐glucose was added, C. vulgaris significantly enhanced ammonium removal under heterotrophic conditions, and its capacity was equal to ammonium removal under autotrophic growth conditions. This study showed that sterilized wastewater can be treated by C. vulgaris under heterotrophic conditions if supplemented with the appropriate organic carbon source for the microalgae.
SURFACE INTERACTIONS OF THE EPIPHYTIC MACROALGA HINCKSIA MITCHELLIAE (PHAEOPHYCEAE) WITH THE SHOALGRASS HALODULE WRIGHTII (CYMODOCEACEAE)1
Authors: Papini Alessio , Sordo Laura , Mosti Stefano
Published: December 2010

Meadows of Halodule wrightii (Cymodoceaceae) underwent a decline in a tidal flat located at Paranaguá Bay (Parana, SE Brazil). This decline appeared to be related to an overgrowth of the epiphytic macroalga Hincksia mitchelliae (Harv.) P. C. Silva (Phaeophyceae). In order to characterize the type of epiphytism between the alga and its plant host, we compared two samples from the beginning and end of the algal overgrowth via electron and optical microscopes. The investigation revealed that at both sampling periods, there was an epiphytism of type II, which is due to an infection of epiphytes strongly attached to the surface of the host but not associated to any apparent direct host‐tissue damage. The presence of plasmodesmata between the cells of Hincksia only in the late stage of the host–epiphyte interaction indicated a change in the vegetative organization of Hincksia in relation to its host to improve nutrient absorption and distribution through the epiphyte cells. This is the first report on plasmodesmata in H. mitchelliae. The proposed mechanisms with which the algal epiphytes lead seagrasses to death are shadowing by adhesion on Halodule surface and disruption of its osmoregulatory system. Our findings have implications for the conservation and management strategies of seagrass ecosystems.
DIMETHYLSULFONIOPROPIONATE STORAGE IN PHAEOCYSTIS (PRYMNESIOPHYCEAE) SECRETORY VESICLES1
Authors: Orellana Mónica V. , Matrai Patricia A. , Janer Marta , Rauschenberg Carlton D.
Published: December 2010

Despite the global importance of dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP)/dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and their role in climate regulation, little is known about the mechanisms of their production and storage in Phaeocystis sp., a major contributor of DMS in polar areas. Phaeocystis secretes polymer microgels, by regulated exocytosis, remaining in condensed phase while stored in secretory vesicles (Chin et al. 2004). In secretory cells, vesicles also store small molecules, which are released during exocytosis. Here, we demonstrated that DMSP and DMS were stored in the secretory vesicles of Phaeocystis antarctica G. Karst. They were trapped within a polyanionic gel matrix, which prevented an accurate measurement of their concentration in the absence of a chelating agent such as EDTA. Understanding the production and the export mechanisms of DMSP and DMS into seawater is important because of the impact the cellular and extracellular pools of these highly relevant biogeochemical metabolites have on the environment. The pool of total DMSP in the presence of Phaeocystis may be underestimated by as much as half. Obtaining accurate budget measurements is the first step toward gaining a better understanding of key issues related to the DMS ocean–air interaction and the effect of phytoplankton DMS production on climate change.
MONO‐ AND DIGALACTOSYLDIACYLGLYCEROL COMPOSITION OF RAPHIDOPHYTES (RAPHIDOPHYCEAE): A MODERN INTERPRETATION USING POSITIVE‐ION ELECTROSPRAY/MASS SPECTROMETRY/MASS SPECTROMETRY1
Authors: Roche Shannon A. , Leblond Jeffrey D.
Published: December 2010

Raphidophyte algae (Raphidophyceae) can be divided according to pigment composition and plastid ancestry into two categories, brown‐ and green‐pigmented taxa. We sought to examine if there are any biochemical differences in plastid lipid composition between the two groups. To this end, the composition and positional distribution of fatty acids of the chloroplast lipids, mono‐ and digalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG and DGDG, respectively), were examined using positive‐ion electrospray/mass spectrometry (ESI/MS) and electrospray/mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (ESI/MS/MS). Brown‐pigmented strains from the genera Chattonella, Fibrocapsa, and Heterosigma primarily consisted of 20:5/18:4 (sn‐1/sn‐2) MGDG and 20:5/18:4 DGDG, while isolates of the green‐pigmented raphidophyte Gonyostomum semen (Ehrenb.) Diesing contained these as well as 18:3/18:4 MGDG and DGDG, thus underscoring its green algal plastid lineage. Although previously unseen without the regiochemical information provided by ESI/MS/MS, Chattonella subsalsa Biecheler possessed 20:5/18:3 DGDG as a major form, a potential biosynthetic intermediate in the production of 20:5/18:4 DGDG. These results provide a modern interpretation of the fatty acid regiochemistry of MGDG and DGDG.
Real‐time polymerase chain reaction detection of parvovirus B19 DNA in blood donations using a commercial and an in‐house assay
Authors: Koppelman M.H.G.M. , van Swieten P. , Cuijpers H.T.M.
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND: European regulations require testing of manufacturing plasma for parvovirus B19 (B19) DNA to limit the load of this virus to a maximum acceptable level of 10 IU/µL. To meet this requirement, most manufacturers introduced a test algorithm to identify and eliminate high‐load donations before making large manufacturing pools of plasma units. Sanquin screens all donations using a commercial assay from Roche and an in‐house assay.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Between 2006 and 2009, 6.2 million donations were screened using two different polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays targeting B19 DNA. Donations with B19 DNA loads of greater than 1 × 106 IU/mL showing significant differences in viral load between the two assays were further analyzed by sequencing analysis.

RESULTS: A total of 396 donations with B19 DNA loads of greater than 1 × 106 IU/mL were identified. Fifteen samples (3.8%) had discordant test results; 10 samples (2.5%) were underquantified by the Roche assay, two samples (0.5%) were underquantified by the in‐house assay, and three samples (0.8%) were not detected by the Roche assay. Sequencing analysis revealed mismatches in primer and probe‐binding regions. Phylogenetic analysis showed that 12 samples were B19 Genotype 1. The three samples not detected by the Roche assay were B19 Genotype 2.

CONCLUSION: This study shows that 3.8% of the viremic B19 DNA–positive donations are not quantified correctly by the Roche or in‐house B19 DNA assays. B19 Genotype 1 isolates showing incorrect test results are more common than B19 Genotype 2 or 3 isolates. Newly designed B19 PCR assays for blood screening should preferably have multiplexed formats targeting multiple regions of the B19 genome.
Hereditary hemochromatosis: patient experiences of the disease and phlebotomy treatment
Authors: Brissot Pierre , Ball Simon , Rofail Diana , Cannon Helena , Jin Vivian Wu
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND: Hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) is a genetic disorder resulting in increased accumulation of dietary iron. It is associated with various clinical complications such as liver cirrhosis and diabetes. The aim of this study was to explore patients’ experiences of living with HH, the diagnosis process, and phlebotomy treatment.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: An online survey was developed and completed by a total of 210 HH patients across the United States (n = 70), France (n = 50), Ireland (n = 40), and the United Kingdom (n = 50).

RESULTS: Of the 210 patients, 30% were induction patients, 49% were maintenance patients, and 22% had never received phlebotomy. The most common route to diagnosis was by chance (42%), although most patients (87%) reported experiencing symptoms they now associated with HH at the time of diagnosis. Fatigue (60%) and joint pain (50%) were the most frequently reported current symptoms. While 87% of patients felt that treatment with phlebotomy was “quite worthwhile” or “very worthwhile,” 52% of induction patients and 37% of maintenance patients experienced side effects “always” or “most of the time” after phlebotomy and 16% of patients would “definitely” or “probably” decide not to receive phlebotomy if alternative options were available.

CONCLUSION: Diagnosis of HH is likely made late in many patients and subsequent phlebotomy treatment, while considered worthwhile by most, leads to concerns over side effects and inconvenience, often impacting patients’ lives. Greater efforts to promote awareness of the disease and reduce the treatment burden associated with phlebotomy are required to improve detection and management of this disease.
Reversing Nuclear Opposition: Evolving Public Acceptance of a Permanent Nuclear Waste Disposal Facility
Authors: Jenkins‐Smith Hank C. , Silva Carol L. , Nowlin Matthew C. , deLozier Grant
Published: December 2010

Nuclear facilities have long been seen as the top of the list of locally unwanted land uses (LULUs), with nuclear waste repositories generating the greatest opposition. Focusing on the case of the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) in southern New Mexico, we test competing hypotheses concerning the sources of opposition and support for siting the facility, including demographics, proximity, political ideology, and partisanship, and the unfolding policy process over time. This study tracks the changes of risk perception and acceptance of WIPP over a decade, using measures taken from 35 statewide surveys of New Mexico citizens spanning an 11‐year period from fall 1990 to summer 2001. This time span includes periods before and after WIPP became operational. We find that acceptance of WIPP is greater among those whose residences are closest to the WIPP facility. Surprisingly, and contrary to expectations drawn from the broader literature, acceptance is also greater among those who live closest to the nuclear waste transportation route. We also find that ideology, partisanship, government approval, and broader environmental concerns influence support for WIPP acceptance. Finally, the sequence of procedural steps taken toward formal approval of WIPP by government agencies proved to be important to gaining public acceptance, the most significant being the opening of the WIPP facility itself.
Failure Probability Under Parameter Uncertainty
Authors: Gerrard R. , Tsanakas A.
Published: December 2010

In many problems of risk analysis, failure is equivalent to the event of a random risk factor exceeding a given threshold. Failure probabilities can be controlled if a decisionmaker is able to set the threshold at an appropriate level. This abstract situation applies, for example, to environmental risks with infrastructure controls; to supply chain risks with inventory controls; and to insurance solvency risks with capital controls. However, uncertainty around the distribution of the risk factor implies that parameter error will be present and the measures taken to control failure probabilities may not be effective. We show that parameter uncertainty increases the probability (understood as expected frequency) of failures. For a large class of loss distributions, arising from increasing transformations of location‐scale families (including the log‐normal, Weibull, and Pareto distributions), the article shows that failure probabilities can be exactly calculated, as they are independent of the true (but unknown) parameters. Hence it is possible to obtain an explicit measure of the effect of parameter uncertainty on failure probability. Failure probability can be controlled in two different ways: (1) by reducing the nominal required failure probability, depending on the size of the available data set, and (2) by modifying of the distribution itself that is used to calculate the risk control. Approach (1) corresponds to a frequentist/regulatory view of probability, while approach (2) is consistent with a Bayesian/personalistic view. We furthermore show that the two approaches are consistent in achieving the required failure probability. Finally, we briefly discuss the effects of data pooling and its systemic risk implications.
Prevalence and risk factors for anal incontinence after obstetric anal sphincter rupture
Authors: LAINE KATARIINA , SKJELDESTAD FINN EGIL , SANDA BIRGITTE , HORNE HILDEGUNN , SPYDSLAUG ANNY , STAFF ANNE CATHRINE
Published: December 2010

Objective. To study prevalence and risk factors for anal incontinence (AI) after obstetric anal sphincter rupture. Material and methods. This was a retrospective clinical observational study. Among 14 959 vaginal deliveries, 591 women were diagnosed with obstetric anal sphincter ruptures (3.9%) at one Norwegian University Hospital in 2003–2005. Patients were examined and interviewed approximately 10 months after delivery. Anal continence was classified with St. Mark's incontinence score (0, complete anal continence; ≥3, anal incontinence), and defects in anal sphincter muscles were diagnosed by endoanal ultrasound. Prevalence of anal incontinence was assessed in relation to obstetrical and maternal characteristics as well as the correlation between anal incontinence and ultrasound‐detectable defects of sphincter muscle. Results. Anal incontinence with a St. Mark's score of ≥3 was reported by 21% of women with obstetric anal sphincter rupture, with inability to control gas as the most prevalent symptom. Women with AI were more likely to report urinary incontinence compared with women having no AI. In a multiple regression analysis of maternal and obstetrical risk factors, fourth degree sphincter tear was the only significant risk factor for AI. Anal incontinence was more frequent in patients diagnosed with than without ultrasound‐identified anal sphincter muscle defects at 10 months postpartum follow‐up. Conclusion. Anal as well as urinary incontinence after delivery with obstetric anal sphincter rupture is common, and prenatal obstetric and maternal variables could not predict anal incontinence. Fourth degree perineal tear and a persistent ultrasound‐detected defect in the anal sphincter muscles are associated with AI.
What drives invasibility? A multi‐model inference test and spatial modelling of alien plant species richness patterns in northern Portugal
Authors: Vicente Joana , Alves Paulo , Randin Christophe , Guisan Antoine , Honrado João
Published: December 2010

Understanding and predicting biological invasions can focus either on traits that favour species invasiveness or on features of the receiving communities, habitats or landscapes that promote their invasibility. Here, we address invasibility at the regional scale, testing whether some habitats and landscapes are more invasible than others by fitting models that relate alien plant species richness to various environmental predictors. We use a multi‐model information‐theoretic approach to assess invasibility by modelling spatial and ecological patterns of alien invasion in landscape mosaics, and by testing competing hypotheses of environmental factors that may control invasibility. Because invasibility may be mediated by particular characteristics of invasiveness, we classified alien species according to their C‐S‐R plant strategies. We illustrate this approach with a set of 86 alien species in northern Portugal. We first focus on predictors influencing species richness and expressing invasibility, and then evaluate whether distinct plant strategies respond to the same or different groups of environmental predictors. We confirmed climate as a primary determinant of alien invasions, and as a primary environmental gradient determining landscape invasibility. The effects of secondary gradients were detected only when the area was sub‐sampled according to predictions based on the primary gradient. Then, multiple predictor types influenced patterns of alien species richness, with some types (landscape composition, topography and fire regime) prevailing over others. Alien species richness responded most strongly to extreme land management regimes, suggesting that intermediate disturbance induces biotic resistance by favouring native species richness. Land‐use intensification facilitated alien invasion, whereas conservation areas hosted few invaders, highlighting the importance of ecosystem stability in preventing invasions. Plants with different strategies exhibited different responses to environmental gradients, particularly when the variations of the primary gradient were narrowed by sub‐sampling. Such differential responses of plant strategies suggest using distinct control and eradication approaches for different areas and alien plant groups.
Predator‐induced modifications to diving behavior vary with foraging mode
Authors: Wirsing Aaron J. , Heithaus Michael R. , Dill Lawrence M.
Published: December 2010

Breath‐hold divers are strongly interacting species whose top–down influence on aquatic communities is shaped by factors governing their diving decisions. Although some of these factors (e.g. physiological constraints, energetic needs) have been scrutinized, the possibility that predation risk influences diving behavior has been largely overlooked, and no study to date has asked if anti‐predator responses by divers depend on foraging mode. We contrasted dive cycle changes by herbivorous dugongs Dugong dugon using two foraging tactics – cropping, which always permits anti‐predator vigilance, and excavation, which limits surveillance at depth – in response to temporal variation in tiger shark Galeocerdo cuvier abundance. Dugongs responded to increasing shark abundance (one component of predation risk) by diving more frequently without changing their surface times and thereby spending a greater proportion of time at the surface, but only while excavating. When threatened, in other words, excavating dugongs sacrificed foraging time at depth to facilitate shark detection. In contrast, cropping dugongs at risk from sharks were able to continue diving and foraging normally. By implication, future studies should consider the influence of predation risk on diving decisions, even by large‐bodied species, and the possibility that behavioral responses by divers to predators may vary with foraging mode.
Phosphoinositides Direct Equine Infectious Anemia Virus Gag Trafficking and Release
Authors: Fernandes Fiona , Chen Kang , Ehrlich Lorna S. , Jin Jing , Chen Min H. , Medina Gisselle N. , Symons Marc , Montelaro Ronald , Donaldson Julie , Tjandra Nico , Carter Carol A.
Published: December 2010

Phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐biphosphate [PI(4,5)P2], the predominant phosphoinositide (PI) on the plasma membrane, binds the matrix (MA) protein of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) and equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV) with similar affinities in vitro. Interaction with PI(4,5)P2 is critical for HIV‐1 assembly on the plasma membrane. EIAV has been shown to localize in internal compartments; hence, the significance of its interaction with PI(4,5)P2 is unclear. We therefore investigated the binding in vitro of other PIs to EIAV MA and whether intracellular association with compartments bearing these PIs was important for assembly and release of virus‐like particles (VLPs) formed by Gag. In vitro, EIAV MA bound phosphatidylinositol 3‐phosphate [PI(3)P] with higher affinity than PI(4,5)P2 as revealed by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra upon lipid titration. Gag was detected on the plasma membrane and in compartments enriched in phosphatidylinositol 3,5‐biphosphate [PI(3,5)P2]. Treatment of cells with YM201636, a kinase inhibitor that blocks production of PI(3,5)P2 from PI(3)P, caused Gag to colocalize with aberrant compartments and inhibited VLP release. In contrast to HIV‐1, release of EIAV VLPs was not significantly diminished by coexpression with 5‐phosphatase IV, an enzyme that specifically depletes PI(4,5)P2 from the plasma membrane. However, coexpression with synaptojanin 2, a phosphatase with broader specificity, diminished VLP production. PI‐binding pocket mutations caused striking budding defects, as revealed by electron microscopy. One of the mutations also modified Gag–Gag interaction, as suggested by altered bimolecular fluorescence complementation. We conclude that PI‐mediated targeting to peripheral and internal membranes is a critical factor in EIAV assembly and release.
Soft Tissue Augmentation in Connection to Dental Implant Treatment Using a Synthetic, Porous Material – A Case Series with a 6‐Month Follow‐Up
Authors: Friberg Bertil , Jemt Torsten
Published: December 2010

Background: Bony defects/concavities in the aesthetic zone of maxillae may interfere with the results of prosthetic procedures by producing shading superior to the crown. Such regions can be augmented either by bone or soft tissue autografts, allografts, or xenografts. Tissue shrinkage is thus anticipated, and a method to objectively measure the tissue change is valuable.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of a synthetic, porous material made of polyurethaneurea for buccal soft tissue augmentation in connection with implant placement in the maxillary front region. Further, to measure over time the change in buccal contour using a computerized technique.

Materials and Methods: Ten patients received 12 Artelon® cylinders (5 × 10 mm) in connection to implant placement. Preoperative and postoperative (at 3 and 6 months) study casts were obtained for computer measurements, using the preoperative reference model as a base. The volume created between the surfaces of the reference model and each of the two following superimposed models was measured in cubic millimeter. Differences in volume from pretreatment to 3 and 6 months, respectively, were compared.

Results: The clinical observation during follow‐up showed normal healing. The increase in mean buccal tissue volume was 50 mm3 (SD 18) after 3 months and 43 mm3 (SD 21) after 6 months, measured over a 6 mm × 8 mm area in the maxillary front region, in comparison to before insertion of the cylinder. The reduction from 3 to 6 months was not statistically significant (p = .17).

Conclusion: A synthetic, porous material for soft tissue augmentation was tested in connection to implant placement in the aesthetic zone of maxillae. The buccal contour was followed‐up for 6 months using a computer volumetric technique on preoperative and postoperative study casts. Measured tissue volume showed an obvious increase during the study period. The material was biologically well received.
Fracture Strength and Failure Mode of Maxillary Implant‐Supported Provisional Single Crowns: A Comparison of Composite Resin Crowns Fabricated Directly Over PEEK Abutments and Solid Titanium Abutments
Authors: Santing Hendrik Jacob , Meijer Henny J. A. , Raghoebar Gerry M. , Özcan Mutlu
Published: December 2010

Background: Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) temporary abutments have been recently introduced for making implant‐supported provisional single crowns. Little information is available in the dental literature on the durability of provisional implant‐supported restorations.

Purpose: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the fracture strength of implant‐supported composite resin crowns on PEEK and solid titanium temporary abutments, and to analyze the failure types.

Material and Methods: Three types of provisional abutments, RN synOcta Temporary Meso Abutment (PEEK; Straumann), RN synOcta Titanium Post for Temporary Restorations (Straumann), and Temporary Abutment Engaging NobRplRP (Nobel Biocare) were used, and provisional screw‐retained crowns using composite resin (Solidex) were fabricated for four different locations in the maxilla. The specimens were tested in a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/minute until fracture occurred. The failure types were analyzed and further categorized as irreparable (Type 1) or reparable (Type 2).

Results: No significant difference was found between different abutment types. Only for the position of the maxillary central incisor, composite resin crowns on PEEK temporary abutments showed significantly lower (p < 0.05) fracture strength (95 ± 21 N) than those on titanium temporary abutments (1,009 ± 94 N). The most frequently experienced failure types were cohesive fractures of the composite resin crowns (75 out of 104), followed by screw loosening (18 out of 104). According to reparability, the majority of the specimens were classified as Type 1 (82 out of 104). Type 2 failures were not often observed (22 out of 104).

Conclusions: Provisional crowns on PEEK abutments showed similar fracture strength as titanium temporary abutments except for central incisors. Maxillary right central incisor composite resin crowns on PEEK temporary abutments fractured below the mean anterior masticatory loading forces reported to be approximately 206 N.
Comparison of Fit Accuracy between Procera® Custom Abutments and Three Implant Systems
Authors: de Morais Alves da Cunha Tiago , de Araújo Roberto Paulo Correia , da Rocha Paulo Vicente Barbosa , Amoedo Rosa Maria Pazos
Published: December 2010

Background: Although increase of misfit has been reported when associating implant and abutment from different manufacturers, Procera custom abutment has been universally used in clinical practice.

Purpose: The purpose of this investigation was to compare the vertical gap of zirconia Procera® abutment associated with implants from the same manufacturer (Procera manufacturer) and two other implant systems.

Materials and Methods: Twenty‐four zirconia Procera abutments were produced using computer‐assisted design and manufacture and paired with (a) eight MK III, RP 4.1 × 10 mm implants (Nobel Biocare™, Göteborg, Sweden) – GNB group (Nobel Biocare group); (b) eight Try on, 4.1 × 10 mm implants (Sistema de Implantes, São Paulo, Brazil) – ES group (SIN experimental group) ; and (c) eight Master screw, 4.1 × 10 mm implants (Conexão® Sistema de Prótese, São Paulo, Brazil) – EC group (Conexão experimental group). A comparison of the vertical misfit at the implant–abutment interface was taken at six measuring sites on each sample using scanning electron microscopy with a magnification of 408×. One‐way analysis of variance was used to test for differences, and Tukey's test was used for pair‐wise comparison of groups (α = 0.05).

Results: Significant differences relative to average misfit were found when Procera abutments were associated with other implant manufacturers. The ES group and EC group did not differ significantly, but both demonstrated significantly larger average misfit than the GNB group (p = .001). The average misfit was 5.7 µm ± 0.39, 9.53 µm ± 0.52, and 10.62 µm ± 2.16, respectively, for groups GNB, ES, and EC.

Conclusion: The association of Procera zirconia abutment with other implant systems different from its manufacturer demonstrated significant alteration of vertical misfit at implant–abutment interface.
Detailed exposure assessment of dietary furan for infants consuming commercially jarred complementary food based on data from the DONALD study
Authors: Lachenmeier Dirk W. , Maser Elena , Kuballa Thomas , Reusch Helmut , Kersting Mathilde , Alexy Ute
Published: December 2010

Furan is a possible human carcinogen regularly occurring in commercially jarred complementary foods. This paper will provide a detailed exposure assessment for babies consuming these foods considering different intake scenarios. The occurrence data on furan in complementary foods were based on our own headspace‐gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (HS‐GC/MS) analytical results (n = 286). The average furan content in meals and menus was between 20 and 30 µg kg−1, which is in excellent agreement with results from other European countries. Using measured food consumption data from the Dortmund Nutritional and Anthropometric Longitudinally Designed (DONALD) study, the average exposures for consumers of commercially jarred foods ranged between 182 and 688 ng kg−1 bw day−1, with a worst case scenario for P95 consumers ranging between 351 and 1066 ng kg−1 bw day−1. The exposure data were then used to characterize risk using the margin of exposure method based on a benchmark dose lower confidence limit for a 10% response (BMDL10) of 1.28 mg kg−1 bw day−1 for hepatocellular tumours in rats. The margin of exposures (MOEs) were below the threshold of 10 000, which is often used to define public health risks, in all scenarios, ranging between 7022 and 1861 for average consumers and between 3642 and 1200 for the P95 consumers. Mitigative measures to avoid furan in complementary foods should be of high priority for risk management.
The subcellular organization of strictosidine biosynthesis in Catharanthus roseus epidermis highlights several trans‐tonoplast translocations of intermediate metabolites
Authors: Guirimand Grégory , Guihur Anthony , Ginis Olivia , Poutrain Pierre , Héricourt François , Oudin Audrey , Lanoue Arnaud , St‐Pierre Benoit , Burlat Vincent , Courdavault Vincent
Published: December 2010

Catharanthus roseus synthesizes a wide range of valuable monoterpene indole alkaloids, some of which have recently been recognized as functioning in plant defence mechanisms. More specifically, in aerial organ epidermal cells, vacuole‐accumulated strictosidine displays a dual fate, being either the precursor of all monoterpene indole alkaloids after export from the vacuole, or the substrate for a defence mechanism based on the massive protein cross‐linking, which occurs subsequent to organelle membrane disruption during biotic attacks. Such a mechanism relies on a physical separation between the vacuolar strictosidine‐synthesizing enzyme and the nucleus‐targeted enzyme catalyzing its activation through deglucosylation. In the present study, we carried out the spatial characterization of this mechanism by a cellular and subcellular study of three enzymes catalyzing the synthesis of the two strictosidine precursors (i.e. tryptamine and secologanin). Using RNA in situ hybridization, we demonstrated that loganic acid O‐methyltransferase transcript, catalysing the penultimate step of secologanin synthesis, is specifically localized in the epidermis. A combination of green fluorescent protein imaging, bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays and yeast two‐hybrid analysis enabled us to establish that both loganic acid O‐methyltransferase and the tryptamine‐producing enzyme, tryptophan decarboxylase, form homodimers in the cytosol, thereby preventing their passive diffusion to the nucleus. We also showed that the cytochrome P450 secologanin synthase is anchored to the endoplasmic reticulum via a N‐teminal helix, thus allowing the production of secologanin on the cytosolic side of the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. Consequently, secologanin and tryptamine must be transported to the vacuole to achieve strictosidine biosynthesis, demonstrating the importance of trans‐tonoplast translocation events during these metabolic processes.

Structured digital abstract

 MINT‐8080228: TDC (uniprotkb:P17770) physically interacts (MI:0915) with TDC (uniprotkb: P17770) by two hybrid (MI:0018)

 MINT‐8080246: LAMT (uniprotkb:B2KPR3) physically interacts (MI:0915) with LAMT (uniprotkb:B2KPR3) by two hybrid (MI:0018)

 MINT‐8080351: LAMT (uniprotkb:B2KPR3) and LAMT (uniprotkb:B2KPR3) physically interact (MI:0915) by bimolecular fluorescence complementation (MI:0809)

 MINT‐8080262: TDC (uniprotkb:P17770) and TDC (uniprotkb:P17770) physically interact (MI:0915) by bimolecular fluorescence complementation (MI:0809)
Lipins from plants are phosphatidate phosphatases that restore lipid synthesis in a pah1Δ mutant strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Mietkiewska Elzbieta , Siloto Rodrigo M. P. , Dewald Jay , Shah Saleh , Brindley David N. , Weselake Randall J.
Published: December 2010

The identification of the yeast phosphatidate phosphohydrolase (PAH1) gene encoding an enzyme with phosphatidate phosphatase (PAP; 3‐sn‐phosphatidate phosphohydrolase, EC 3.1.3.4) activity led to the discovery of mammalian Lipins and subsequently to homologous genes from plants. In the present study, we describe the functional characterization of Arabidopsis and Brassica napus homologs of PAH1. Recombinant expression studies confirmed that homologous PAHs from plants can rescue different phenotypes exhibited by the yeast pah1Δ strain, such as temperature growth sensitivity and atypical neutral lipid composition. Using this expression system, we examined the role of the putative catalytic motif DXDXT and other conserved residues by mutational analysis. Mutants within the carboxy‐terminal lipin domain displayed significantly decreased PAP activity, which was reflected by their limited ability to complement different phenotypes of pah1Δ. Subcellular localization studies using a green fluorescent protein fusion protein showed that Arabidopsis PAH1 is mostly present in the cytoplasm of yeast cells. However, upon oleic acid stimulation, green fluorescent protein fluorescence was predominantly found in the nucleus, suggesting that plant PAH1 might be involved in the transcriptional regulation of gene expression. In addition, we demonstrate that mutation of conserved residues that are essential for the PAP activity of the Arabidopsis PAH1 enzyme did not impair its nuclear localization in response to oleic acid. In conclusion, the present study provides evidence that Arabidopsis and B. napus PAHs restore lipid synthesis in yeast and that DXDXT is a functional enzymic motif within plant PAHs.

Database
 The nucleotide sequence data have been deposited in the GenBank database under accession numbers HQ113853 and HQ113854
Associations between Physical and Mental Health Problems and Sexual Dysfunctions in Sexually Active Danes
Authors: Christensen Birgitte Schütt , Grønbæk Morten , Osler Merete , Pedersen Bo Vestergaard , Graugaard Christian , Frisch Morten
Published: December 2010

Introduction

Studies have shown a high prevalence of sexual dysfunctions among individuals with a variety of health problems.

Aim

To obtain a population-based assessment of these matters, we studied associations between indicators of physical and mental health problems and sexual dysfunctions in Denmark.

Methods

We used questionnaire data from 4,415 sexually active men (mean age 48 years) and women (mean age 45 years) who participated in a nationally representative survey in 2005. Cross-sectional associations of overall health and physical and mental health problems with sexual dysfunctions in the last year were estimated by logistic regression-derived, confounder-adjusted odds ratios (ORadj).

Main Outcome Measures

We calculated ORadj with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for erectile dysfunction, anorgasmia, premature ejaculation, and dyspareunia in men, for lubrication insufficiency, anorgasmia, dyspareunia, and vaginismus in women, and for sexual dysfunction and sexual difficulties overall in both sexes.

Results

Sexual dysfunction was significantly more common among participants with poor self-rated health (ORadj 1.86, 95% CI 1.05-3.33 in men, ORadj 1.91, 1.08–3.37 in women). Physical health problems were significantly associated with male sexual dysfunctions (ORadj 1.75, 1.18–2.61), whereas mental health problems were significantly associated with female sexual dysfunctions (ORadj 2.59, 1.60–4.22).

Conclusion

Among sexually active Danes, poor self-reported overall health is associated with increased rates of sexual dysfunction in both sexes, with physical health problems mainly affecting men's sex lives, and mental health problems being strongly associated with female sexual dysfunction.