bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Over‐expression of the Arabidopsis CBF1 gene improves resistance of tomato leaves to low temperature under low irradiance
Authors: Zhang Y.‐J. , Yang J.‐S. , Guo S.‐J. , Meng J.‐J. , Zhang Y.‐L. , Wan S.‐B. , He Q.‐W. , Li X.‐G.
Published: June 2010

A known Arabidopsis cDNA clone, the CRT/DRE binding factor 1 (CBF1), was isolated and introduced into tomato plants. CBF1 is a member of the CBF gene family related to low temperature and enhanced low temperature tolerance in plants. In the present work, transcripts of CBF1 could be detected in transgenic tomato leaves, and the photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm) and oxidisable P700 in the transgenic tomato over‐expressing CBF1 were higher than in non‐transformed plants under low temperature stress at low irradiance. Similarly, higher activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), higher non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ), and lower malondialdehyde (MDA) content were also detected in transgenic tomato leaves. These results suggest that CBF1 protein plays an important role in protection of PSII and PSI during low temperature stress at low irradiance.
Genetic Characterization of Puccinia graminis f.sp. tritici Populations from Ethiopia by SSRs
Authors: Admassu Belayneh , Friedt Wolfgang , Ordon Frank
Published: June 2010

The genetic structure of Puccinia graminis f.sp. tritici isolates sampled in three different regions of Ethiopia in 2006 and 2007 was investigated using 20 SSRs assuming sexual as well as asexual reproduction. Assays showed a high level of genetic diversity within P. graminis f.sp. tritici populations in Ethiopia in both modes of reproductions. Tests for population subdivision revealed the absence of genetic differentiation among the populations based on geographical separation as reflected by a low coefficient of genetic differentiation (≤0.046) and a single cluster consisting of all isolates. Gene flow among populations was estimated to be high (10 per generation). This study shows that the pathogen population of Ethiopia is characterized by a high genetic diversity within each population and absence of segregation among populations. Information obtained from this study may serve as a basis to develop better strategies for deployment of resistance genes, e.g. using marker‐assisted combination of resistance alleles to achieve better control of wheat stem rust in Ethiopia.
Epigenetic treatments of adult rats promote recovery from visual acuity deficits induced by long‐term monocular deprivation
Authors: Silingardi Davide , Scali Manuela , Belluomini Giulio , Pizzorusso Tommaso
Published: June 2010

In mammals the development of the visual system may be altered during a sensitive period by modifying the visual input to one or both eyes. These plastic processes are reduced after the end of the sensitive period. It has been proposed that reduced levels of plasticity are at the basis of the lack of recovery from early visual deprivation observed in adult animals. A developmental downregulation of experience‐dependent regulation of histone acetylation has recently been found to be involved in closing the sensitive period. Therefore, we tested whether pharmacological epigenetic treatments increasing histone acetylation could be used to reverse visual acuity deficits induced by long‐term monocular deprivation initiated during the sensitive period. We found that chronic intraperitoneal administration of valproic acid or sodium butyrate (two different histone deacetylases inhibitors) to long‐term monocularly deprived adult rats coupled with reverse lid‐suturing caused a complete recovery of visual acuity, tested electrophysiologically and behaviorally. Thus, manipulations of the epigenetic machinery can be used to promote functional recovery from early alterations of sensory input in the adult cortex.
Adenovirus‐delivered microRNA targeting the vitamin D receptor reduces intracellular Ca2+ concentrations by regulating the expression of Ca2+‐transport proteins in renal epithelial cells
Authors: Xi Qilin , Wang Shaogang , Ye Zhangqun , Liu Jihong , Yu Xiao , Zhu Zhaowei , Su Shiqiang , Bai Jian , Li Cong
Published: June 2010

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Experimental data have shown that VDR overexpression in the duodenum and kidney cortex is a biological characteristic of genetic hypercalciuric stone‐forming rats (GHS rat), and a link between idiopathic calcium stone formation and the microstatellite marker D12S339 (near the VDR locus) has been proven in humans.

Our study shows that VDR can positively regulate the mRNA and protein expression of TRPV5, calbindin‐D28k and PMCA1b in NRK cell lines. VDR knockdown results in a decrease in intracellular Ca2+ concentration in NRK cell lines. The effect of the elevated VDR level in the kidney on hypercalciuria and the underlying mechanisms need to be further addressed.

OBJECTIVE

• To determine the effects of vitamin D receptor (VDR) on hypercalciuria and the mechanisms underlying such effects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

• The adenovirus vector‐delivered microRNA targeting rat VDR was constructed. We infected the normal rat kidney epithelial cell line NRK (Cellbank, China) with the adenovirus and then collected the cells at 0, 48, 72, 96, 120 h after infection. The mRNA and protein levels of VDR and VDR‐dependent epithelial Ca2+ transport proteins were detected using real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot assays, respectively.

• Fluorescent Ca2+ indicator Fluo‐4 NW (Fluo‐4 NW calcium assay kit, Molecular Probes, Invitrogen, USA) and laser scanning confocal microscope (Olympus, FV500‐IX71, Japan) were used to detect the cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration at different time points after infection.

RESULTS

• The mRNA and protein level of VDR, transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor subtype 5 (TRPV5), calbindin‐D28k and plasma membrane Ca2+‐ATPase (PMCA1b) in infected NRK cells was significantly lower at 72 and 96 h after infection than that in control cells.

• There was no significant difference between the two groups in the mRNA and protein level of TRPV6 and the Na+/Ca2+‐exchanger (NCX1).

• Furthermore, VDR knockdown results in a decrease in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in NRK cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS

• Our study shows that VDR can positively regulate the mRNA and protein expression of TRPV5, calbindin‐D28k and PMCA1b, but not of TRPV6 or NCX1, in NRK cell lines. VDR knockdown results in a decrease in [Ca2+]i in NRK cell lines.

• The effect of the elevated VDR level in the kidney on hypercalciuria and the mechanisms underlying need to be further addressed.
‘Nachleben’: Volker Braun and the Death and Afterlife of the GDR
Authors: Leeder Karen
Published: June 2010

This article focuses on the demise of the GDR, not as is often the case by looking at how it is nostalgically remembered or retrospectively re‐imagined, but more literally. Recent literature from the former GDR has been characterised by a fascination with death but also with spectrality; the revenant undead in the form of ghosts, spectres, vampires, and zombies. A notable example is the revival of the medieval ‘danse macabre’ in a series of contemporary ‘Neue Totentänze’ (2002). This preoccupation links with those recent poetological programmes that have focused on the archaeological excavation of memory, but also with the interest in time which has been noted by a number of observers. However, there is more at stake: an ironic take on Marx and the loss of ideals, a concern with work, an exploration of literature as ‘postscript’, and a fascination with epochal lateness which chimes with contemporary international interests. This paper will focus on lyric and prose texts by Volker Braun – Tumulus (1999), Auf die schönen Possen (2005) and Machwerk oder das Schichtbuch des Flick von Lauchhammer (2008) – to explore how the ‘last words’ of the GDR offer a political and aesthetic rejoinder to a depleted contemporary reality.

Dieser Artikel beschäftigt sich mit dem Untergang der DDR, nicht jedoch – wie so oft – im Sinne einer nostalgischen Erinnerung oder nachträglichen Rekonstruktion, sondern in einem wörtlicheren Sinne. Neue Literatur aus der früheren DDR befasst sich zunehmend mit dem Tod als Thema, aber auch mit der Spektralität: d.h. mit den ‘untoten’ Wiedergängern, die als Geist, Gespenst, Vampir oder Zombie erscheinen. Merkwürdig in dieser Hinsicht ist das Aufleben von der Tradition des mittelalterlichen Totentanzes in einer Reihe zeitgenössischer ‘Neuer Totentänze’ (2002). Diese Tendenz ist in Zusammenhang mit den neueren poetologischen Programmen einer archäologischen Freilegung der Erinnerung, doch auch mit einem vielfach beobachteten Zeitinteresse zu sehen. Es geht jedoch um mehr: um eine ironische Haltung gegenüber Marx und dem Verlust von Idealen, um eine Auseinandersetzung mit Arbeit, eine Erkundung von Literatur als ‘Postskript’ und eine Faszination für epochale Verspätung, die sich mit zeitgenössischen internationalen Interessen deckt. In diesem Beitrag werden Lyrik und Prosa von Volker Braun – Tumulus (1999), Auf die schönen Possen (2005) and Machwerk oder das Schichtbuch des Flick von Lauchhammer (2008) – mit Blick auf die Frage untersucht, inwiefern die ‘letzten Worte’ der DDR eine politische und ästhetische Erwiderung auf eine ausgehöhlte zeitgenössische Realität darstellen.
The Last Gasp of Socialism: Economics and Culture in 1960s East Germany
Authors: Evans Andrew
Published: June 2010

East Germany's history can be broadly divided into two eras: Firstly, the 1950s ‘Aufbau’ period, in which the need to build a socialist society for future generations was emphasised – a project that involved a Stalinist approach, in which ideological commitment was central to political concerns. Secondly, the so‐called ‘real‐existing socialism’ of the 1970s, in which social stability, a sense of belonging and Honecker's ‘unity of economic and social policy’ were the watchwords.

The reforms of the NÖS, or New Economic System – introduced in 1963 and abandoned at the end of the decade – marked the transition between these two periods and aimed to ensure the state's economic survival. This paper will examine both the economic and cultural policy of this period in order to contextualise the NÖS and to demonstrate that it was emblematic of wider trends in European history. I will also argue that the NÖS was perhaps the most important turning point in GDR history. It typified the regime's new approach to reconciling its desire to maintain control with the need to modernise the GDR. This period simultaneously represented the last gasp of revolutionary socialism, a doomed attempt to solve the structural problems of the Stalinist model and a foreshadowing of Honecker's GDR.

Die DDR‐Geschichte wird oft in zwei Perioden geteilt: Während dem Aufbau des Sozialismus der 1950er Jahre rückte das Ziel in den Mittelpunkt, eine sozialistische Gesellschaft für die Zukunft aufzubauen. In dieser stalinistischen Zeit stand die Ideologie im Zentrum aller politischen Entscheidungen. In der Periode des sogenannten realexistierenden Sozialismus der 1970er und 80er Jahre war dagegen die DDR zunehmend durch andere Konzepte gekennzeichnet: soziale Sicherheit, die ‘Einheit von Wirtschafts‐ und Sozialpolitik’ und das Heimatgefühl.

Die Reformen des NÖS (Neuen Ökonomischen Systems), das 1963 eingeführt und am Ende des Jahrzehnts wieder aufgegeben wurde, fungierten als Übergang zwischen den zwei Perioden und stellten einen Versuch dar, das ökonomische Überleben des Staates zu garantieren. Der vorliegende Beitrag untersucht die Wirtschafts‐ und Kulturpolitik dieser Jahre, um das NÖS in einen Zusammenhang mit der europäischen und der DDR‐Geschichte zu setzen. Das NÖS wird als wichtigster Wendepunkt der DDR‐Geschichte interpretiert. Die Reformen verkörperten die dringende Notwendigkeit, die DDR zu modernisieren, und gleichzeitig einen Versuch der SED, ihren Kontrollanspruch aufrechtzuerhalten. Sie waren gleichzeitig letzter Atemzug des revolutionären Sozialismus und Vorwegnahme der Honecker‐Ära.
Negotiating ‘Femininity’ in the GDR Prison Narrative: Discourses of Character Development and Incorrigibility in Elisabeth Graul's Die Farce (1991)
Authors: Richmond Kim
Published: June 2010

Research into women's crime has, until the advent of feminist criminology in the 1970s, been dominated by nineteenth‐century criminology, which theorised the female criminal as either childlike and incapable of crime or as demonically sexual and non‐feminine. Women prison writers often articulate a loss of femininity as a result of being within the traditionally ‘male’ space of prison and being labelled as criminal and therefore non‐feminine. This was especially true of incarceration in the GDR, given that the SED refused to acknowledge the existence of political prisoners, instead deeming them particularly dangerous criminals. Elisabeth Graul was one such political prisoner: she deals with this defeminisation in her 1991 account Die Farce through writing of her improved sense of herself as a woman during her eleven years’ incarceration. Such a self‐representation allows Graul to account for the lost years in prison through articulating its valuable place within her life. Careful to emphasise, however, that GDR imprisonment and its programme of ‘Umerziehung’ was not responsible for this improvement, she creates a self‐representation that combines the incorrigible and rebellious prisoner with the ideally feminine woman. This is done by using the symbol of the mother and infusing it with her own interpretation, creating a new paradigm for the female political prisoner.

Die Kriminalforschung auf dem Gebiet der Frauenkriminalität wurde (bis die feministische Kriminologie in den 1970er Jahren entstand) von der Kriminologie des neunzehnten Jahrhunderts dominiert, wobei die Verbrecherin entweder als kindlich und zur Kriminalität unfähig oder als sexuell abweichend und unweiblich dargestellt wurde. Gefängnisautorinnen drücken oft einen Verlust der Weiblichkeit in ihrem Schreiben aus, was aus der Auffassung des Gefängnisses als ‘männlicher’ Raum und der Unweiblichkeit der Verbrecherin resultiert. In der DDR war diese Stigmatisierung besonders bedeutend, da die DDR die Existenz politischer Gefangenen verleugnete und sie stattdessen als gefährliche Verbrecherinnen bezeichnete. Elisabeth Graul war eine solche Gefangene: sie befasst sich mit dem Verlust der Weiblichkeit in ihrem 1991 erschienenen Text Die Farce, indem sie über sich selbst als eine durch ihre elfjährige Gefängnisstrafe geläuterte Frau schreibt. Diese Selbstdarstellung hilft ihr dabei, die verlorenen Gefängnisjahre als wertvoll in ihrem Leben zu betrachten. Graul hebt gleichzeitig hervor, dass ihre Läuterung nicht aus Gründen der Gefangenschaft und Umerziehung in der DDR stattfand. Ihre Selbstdarstellung verbindet ideale Weiblichkeit mit politischem Widerstand und ideologischer Unverbesserlichkeit. Dafür verwendet Graul das Symbol der ‘Mutter’, welchem sie ihre eigene Bedeutung gibt und dadurch ein neues Paradigma der weiblichen politischen Gefangenen schafft.
Microbleeds and free active MMP‐9 are independent risk factors for neurological deterioration in acute lacunar stroke
Authors: Koh S.‐H. , Park C. Y. , Kim M. K. , Lee K.‐Y. , Kim J. , Chang D.‐I. , Kim H.‐T. , Kim S. H.
Published: June 2010

Background and purpose:  In this prospective study, we evaluated mutual relationships amongst microbleeds, matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) and neurological deterioration in patients with their first acute lacunar stroke.

Methods:  Based on diffusion‐weighted image findings, we recruited 206 patients with their first acute lacunar stroke. Those without a MRI scan were excluded. Small (a maximum lesion diameter of 15 mm) areas of subcortical gray and white matter with increased signals were considered as lacunar infarctions. GRE images were obtained within 24 h of the onset of stroke symptoms. Venous blood was sampled at base line (within 24 h). Clinical, biochemical, rheological and inflammatory parameters, neurological scales and free, active MMP‐9 levels were compared between patients with and without microbleeds. Neurological deterioration was defined as an increase in more than two points on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale Score baseline 14 days after the onset of lacunar stroke.

Results:  Of the patients, 79 (38.3%) had microbleeds and 48 (23.3%) showed neurological deterioration. Free, active MMP‐9 and C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels were significantly increased amongst patients with microbleeds (P < 0.001 and P = 0.047, respectively). Existence of microbleeds (RR = 2.47, 95% CI = 1.25–3.83) and increased free, active MMP‐9 (RR = 1.10 per 10 ng/ml, 95% CI = 1.03–1.19) were identified as independent risk factors for neurological deterioration after adjusting for potential confounders.

Discussion:  Increased levels of active MMP‐9 and the existence of microbleeds might be useful in predicting the deterioration following an initial acute lacunar stroke.
Dual modulation of inward rectifier potassium currents in olfactory neuronal cells by promiscuous G protein coupling of the oxytocin receptor
Authors: Gravati Marta , Busnelli Marta , Bulgheroni Elisabetta , Reversi Alessandra , Spaiardi Paolo , Parenti Marco , Toselli Mauro , Chini Bice
Published: June 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 114, 1424–1435.

Oxytocin receptor is a seven transmembrane receptor widely expressed in the CNS that triggers Gi or Gq protein‐mediated signaling cascades leading to the regulation of a variety of neuroendocrine and cognitive functions. We decided to investigate whether and how the promiscuous receptor/G protein coupling affects neuronal excitability. As an experimental model, we used the immortalized gonadotropin‐releasing hormone‐positive GN11 cell line displaying the features of immature, migrating olfactory neurons. Using RT‐PCR analysis, we detected the presence of oxytocin receptors whose stimulation by oxytocin led to the accumulation of inositol phosphates and to the inhibition of cell proliferation, and the expression of several inward rectifier (IR) K+ channel subtypes. Moreover, electrophysiological and pharmacological inspections using whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings evidenced that in GN11 cells, IR channel subtypes are responsive to oxytocin. In particular, we found that: (i) peptide activation of receptor either inhibited or stimulated IR conductances, and (ii) IR current inhibition was mediated by a pertussis toxin‐resistant G protein presumably of the Gq/11 subtype, and by phospholipase C, whereas IR current activation was achieved via receptor coupling to a pertussis toxin‐sensitive Gi/o protein. The findings suggest that neuronal excitability might be tuned by a single peptide receptor that mediates opposing effects on distinct K+ channels through the promiscuous coupling to different G proteins.
Measuring virtues – development of a scale to measure employee virtues and their influence on health
Authors: Wärnå‐Furu Carola , Sääksjärvi Maria , Santavirta Nina
Published: June 2010

Scand J Caring Sci; 2010; 24; 38–45
 
Measuring virtues – development of a scale to measure employee virtues and their influence on health

Aim and method:  The objectives of this article are to present a measurement instrument for virtues, and to examine the link between virtues and health. The instrument was tested by the occupational health care at a large Finnish pulp and paper manufacturer and was shown to be consistent, valid and reliable. In developing the scale, we had two samples of employees and used factor analysis and partial least squares modelling (PLS) on both samples.

Findings:  Factor analysis showed that pride is the most important virtue, followed by love and generosity. In the PLS analysis, we found virtues to significantly reduce the number of sick days. In addition, we found significant relationships between virtues and fatigue, depression and happiness. Virtuous behaviour decreased sick leave and depression. The virtues had a positive influence on happiness and on improvement in one's health.

Conclusion:  The results show that by taking into account virtues in working life, companies can significantly improve their employees’ well‐being. The measurement instrument helps broaden the traditional view on health and is meant to be used by health care professionals in their daily practice. By addressing a person’s physical, mental and virtual well‐being, health care practitioners can take care of employees on a broader level than before.
Disentangling the relative effects of environmental versus human factors on the abundance of native and alien plant species in Mediterranean sandy shores
Authors: Carboni Marta , Thuiller Wilfried , Izzi Francesca , Acosta Alicia
Published: June 2010

Aim  Mediterranean coastal sand dunes are characterized by both very stressful environmental conditions and intense human pressure. This work aims to separate the relative contributions of environmental and human factors in determining the presence/abundance of native and alien plant species in such an extreme environment at a regional scale.

Location  250 km of the Italian Tyrrhenian coast (Region Lazio).

Methods  We analysed alien and native plant richness and fitted generalized additive models in a multimodel‐inference framework with comprehensive randomizations to evaluate the relative contribution of environmental and human correlates in explaining the observed patterns.

Results  Native and alien richness are positively correlated, but different variables influence their spatial patterns. For natives, human population density is the most important factor and is negatively related to richness. Numbers of natives are unexpectedly lower in areas with a high proportion of natural land cover (probably attributable to local farming practices) and, to a lesser degree, affected by the movement of the coastline. On the other hand, alien species richness is strongly related to climatic factors, and more aliens are found in sectors with high rainfall. Secondarily, alien introductions appear to be related to recent urban sprawl and associated gardening.

Main conclusions  Well‐adapted native species in a fragile equilibrium with their natural environment are extremely sensitive to human‐driven modifications. On the contrary, for more generalist alien species, the availability of limited resources plays a predominant role.
BIODIVERSITY RESEARCH: Native‐exotic species richness relationships across spatial scales and biotic homogenization in wetland plant communities of Illinois, USA
Authors: Chen Hua , Qian Hong , Spyreas Greg , Crossland Matthew
Published: June 2010

Aim  To examine native‐exotic species richness relationships across spatial scales and corresponding biotic homogenization in wetland plant communities.

Location  Illinois, USA.

Methods  We analysed the native‐exotic species richness relationship for vascular plants at three spatial scales (small, 0.25 m2 of sample area; medium, 1 m2 of sample area; large, 5 m2 of sample area) in 103 wetlands across Illinois. At each scale, Spearman’s correlation coefficient between native and exotic richness was calculated. We also investigated the potential for biotic homogenization by comparing all species surveyed in a wetland community (from the large sample area) with the species composition in all other wetlands using paired comparisons of their Jaccard’s and Simpson’s similarity indices.

Results  At large and medium scales, native richness was positively correlated with exotic richness, with the strength of the correlation decreasing from the large to the medium scale; at the smallest scale, the native‐exotic richness correlation was negative. The average value for homogenization indices was 0.096 and 0.168, using Jaccard’s and Simpson’s indices, respectively, indicating that these wetland plant communities have been homogenized because of invasion by exotic species.

Main Conclusions  Our study demonstrated a clear shift from a positive to a negative native‐exotic species richness relationship from larger to smaller spatial scales. The negative native‐exotic richness relationship that we found is suggested to result from direct biotic interactions (competitive exclusion) between native and exotic species, whereas positive correlations likely reflect the more prominent influence of habitat heterogeneity on richness at larger scales. Our finding of homogenization at the community level extends conclusions from previous studies having found this pattern at much larger spatial scales. Furthermore, these results suggest that even while exhibiting a positive native‐exotic richness relationship, community level biotas can/are still being homogenized because of exotic species invasion.
Mixed Formulation Solution and Optical Based Experimental Methods in the Deformation Analysis of Radially Loaded Cylindrical Shells
Authors: Madureira L. R. , Vaz M. , Monteiro J. , Viriato Ramos N. , Melo F. Q.
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  A mixed formulation in the characterization of internal forces and displacements in cylindrical shells, subjected to radial forces is presented. This numerical approach is proposed as an alternative to the irreducible formulation, where in some problems this solution leads to stress distribution presenting some discontinuity along the edge joining shell modules with different geometry as, for example, curved pipes with tangent terminations. The mixed formulation here proposed prescribes the continuity in the stress field at shell adjacent sections, while practically ensures similar accuracy in the displacement and stress fields. The force and displacement formulations are carried out by combining unknown analytic functions with trigonometric expansions. The solution can be applied to recurrent problems in piping design as is the case of edge forces and radial loads. Examples considering these external parameters are developed and results are compared with an experimental method based on optical interferometric techniques. These procedures were applied with video recording of the interferometric pattern and allow the displacement field assessment with a non‐contact procedure.
Fire‐damaged R/C Members Repair With High‐Performance Fibre‐Reinforced Jacket
Authors: Leonardi A. , Meda A. , Rinaldi Z.
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  A new repair technique, developed for fire‐damaged R/C structures and based on the application of jackets made of high‐performance fibre‐reinforced concrete, is presented and discussed. The proposed technique may be in principle applied to both beams and columns, as shown in this article. At first, the residual bearing capacity of the reference members is determined for different values of the fire duration. At this aim, an analytical model based on the direct integration of the hot or residual mechanical properties of the three materials (concrete, steel and fibre‐reinforced concrete), throughout the member cross section, is here adopted. Then, after discussing the pros and cons of the application of concrete jacketing to the structural cases in question, the performance of the composite structures is analytically investigated, to make comparisons with the performance of the original undamaged structures, as well as with that of damaged structures. Finally, the fire resistance of the repaired members is evaluated, to show the effectiveness of the proposed technique.
High Precision Contouring with Moiré and Related Methods: A Review
Authors: Sciammarella C. A. , Lamberti L. , Boccaccio A. , Sciammarella F. M.
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  Optical methods of contouring that utilise image recordings by cameras are based on a fundamental discipline, projective geometry. The 3‐D world is projected in 2‐D utilising a camera modelled in the technical literature by the pinhole camera. To get back 3‐D information, the fundamental property measured is parallax. Parallax is a vector resulting from the difference of the projective coordinates of a point in space when projected onto a plane from two different points. The oldest method used for measuring parallax is photogrammetry. It is assumed to be the most precise technique, with the capability of obtaining 10−5 of the largest dimension of the measured object. This study summarises the state‐of‐the‐art methods based on projecting a spatial carrier. Starting with the concept of moiré as a form of photogrammetry, the different optical techniques for parallax determination are discussed. Although the moiré method has reached 1 μm accuracy in laboratory work, a question remains: can moiré become a standardised contouring technique yielding 10−6 m accuracy? This study is devoted to the analysis of high accuracy contour measurements, through both theoretical derivations and experimental verifications.
Influence of the Interfacial Pressure Distribution on Loosening of Bolted Joints
Authors: Marshall M. B. , Zainal I. , Lewis R.
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  Bolted joints are used throughout industry as a method for fastening components together. Sometimes the joints can be safety critical and the consequences of loosening catastrophic. The work outlined in this article initially uses a focusing ultrasonic approach to study pressure distributions in a bolted joint at different torque levels and using a variety of washer designs. The spread of the contact pressure is very important as it is used directly in joint design to determine their structural integrity. Analytical models exist to predict the spread, but very little actual measured data. The results showed clear differences in spread and magnitude of the pressure between the washers enabling their performance to be ranked. In the second part of the work, contact ultrasound transducers were used to investigate the effects of cyclic loading on joints and to assess whether the technique would be suitable for use in condition monitoring. The results indicated that the technique was viable with distinct changes in contact pressure recorded after the loading.
Interrelated labor decisions of farm couples: a censored response analysis of off‐farm work
Authors: Bjørnsen Hild‐Marte , Biørn Erik
Published: June 2010

Farm couples' labor market responses are partly the discrete choice of entering the off‐farm labor market and partly the continuous choice of off‐farm working hours, given entry. Such a setting is interesting when examining the increasing occurrence of multiple job‐holdings among farmers in Western economies. Most existing analyses of off‐farm labor supply only model the decisions of the farmer, not the joint decisions of the farm couple. This article presents a framework for handling such interrelated discrete/continuous choices, involving also farm production and household consumption. The derived two‐equation sub‐model for husband/wife's censored labor responses is estimated from a 10‐year Norwegian panel data for 342 farms. The results agree to some extent with earlier studies, but are more informative because of the longer panels—which allows a more extensive examination of latent heterogeneity and behavioral persistence—because it provides cross‐effects in the spouses' labor supplies. The results show some interesting differences between how the independent variables influence the labor supply of operator and spouse. This is most evident for the cross‐effects of education, children, and wage rate. Overall, the results strongly support applying a panel‐censoring model that accounts for latent heterogeneity in this context.
Productivity and international competitiveness of agriculture in the European Union and the United States
Authors: Ball V. Eldon , Butault Jean‐Pierre , Juan Carlos San , Mora Ricardo
Published: June 2010

This study looks at international competitiveness of agriculture in the European Union and the United States. The most intuitive concept is that of price competitiveness. We calculate relative prices for 11 member states of the European Union and the United States for the period 1973–2002. We assume that markets are perfectly competitive and in long‐run equilibrium, so that the observed price always equals average total cost, as measured by the cost dual to the production function. This assumption is used in our calculation of relative competitiveness and productivity gaps between the European Union and the United States and in our decomposition of relative price movements between changes in relative input prices and changes in relative productivity levels.
The effects of dental anxiety and irregular attendance on referral for dental treatment under sedation within the National Health Service in London
Authors: Milgrom Peter , Newton Jonathon T. , Boyle Carole , Heaton Lisa J. , Donaldson Nora
Published: June 2010

Milgrom P, Newton JT, Boyle C, Heaton LJ, Donaldson N. The effects of dental anxiety and irregular attendance on referral for dental treatment under sedation within the National Health Service in London. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2010; 38: 453–459. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Objective:  To investigate whether the relationship between dental anxiety and referral for treatment under sedation is explained by attendance patterns and oral health.

Methods:  Structural Equation Modeling was used on the covariance matrix of the covariates to test hypothesized inter‐relationships. Subsequently, we modeled the probability of referral for treatment under sedation with a multiple logistic regression taking into account inter‐relationships between the independent variables.

Results:  A direct significant association of referral with dental anxiety and attendance patterns was detected, but not with oral health status. However, oral health and anxiety were highly correlated. Also signaled were correlations between age and education and between gender and bad past experience.

Conclusion:  Referral for treatment under sedation appears to be motivated by both fear and irregular patterns of attendance. Coupled with behavioral treatments to address dental fear and attendance, sedation can be an important part of comprehensive care where curative treatments are long or unpleasant for patients.
Are oral health complaints related to smoking cessation intentions?
Authors: Rosseel J. P. , Hilberink S. R. , Jacobs J. E. , Maassen I. M. , Plasschaert A. J. M. , Grol R. P. T. M.
Published: June 2010

Rosseel JP, Hilberink SR, Jacobs JE, Maassen IM, Plasschaert AJM, Grol RPTM. Are oral health complaints related to smoking cessation intentions? Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2010; 38: 470–478. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Objective:  Smoking influences oral health in several ways (such as the occurrence of periodontitis, teeth discolouration and oral cancer); therefore, smoking behaviour should be addressed in dental care. Dentists can play a role in primary and secondary prevention of tobacco dependence. They see their patients repeatedly over time. This study investigates whether oral health complaints can be seized as an opportunity to start smoking cessation counselling.

Methods:  A structured patient questionnaire in a sample of 1101 smokers (52.1% women, mean age 40.4 years) in a convenience sample of 87 primary care dental practices. The I‐change model was used to describe factors influencing behavioural change. Dependent factors such as intention to quit smoking and related factors (attitude, social support and self‐efficacy) were analysed in relation to independent factors such as oral health complaints (gingiva problems, gingiva inflammation, oral cancer and discoloured teeth) using a general linear model (univariate analysis), multinomial logistic regression analysis and multiple linear regression analysis.

Results:  A total of 56.3% had discoloured teeth, 27% of the smokers had a problem with their gums and 15.7% had gingiva inflammation. We found no direct relation between oral health complaints and the intention to quit smoking. However, teeth discolouration was positively related to attitudes towards smoking cessation [β, Confidential interval (95%); 1.92 (1.45–2.40 for advantages and −0.86(−1.18 to −0.53) for disadvantages] and negatively to self‐efficacy regarding quitting [−2.69 (−3.49 to 1.88)].

Conclusions:  We found no direct relation between oral health complaints and the intention to quit smoking, but oral health complaints and especially teeth discolouration were related to factors influencing the quit intention. Patients with discoloured teeth are more likely to have a positive attitude towards smoking cessation but are uncertain to persist smoking cessation. It is suggested that teeth discolouration can be a good entrance for addressing smoking cessation in daily dental practice.
The influence of peer social networks on toothbrushing behaviour in Iranian adolescents in Mashhad
Authors: Dorri Mojtaba , Sheiham Aubrey , Watt Richard
Published: June 2010

Dorri M, Sheiham A, Watt R. The influence of peer social networks on toothbrushing behaviour in Iranian adolescents in Mashhad. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2010; 38: 498–506. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract – Objectives:  This study aimed to assess the association between the quality and quantity of peer social networks and toothbrushing behaviours of Iranian adolescents in Mashhad. The second objective was to examine whether peer social networks go some way to explain the sex difference in toothbrushing behaviours in Iranian adolescents in Mashhad.

Methods:  A representative stratified random sample of 1132 sixth grade Iranian students in Mashhad, with an average age of 12.4 (SD = 0.8) years, answered a 37‐item questionnaire. The questionnaire had items on sociodemographic characteristics (age, sex and parents’ education level), education achievement (last year’s final average mark), frequency of toothbrushing behaviours and peer social networks (number of close friends, frequency of meeting friends, club membership and quality of peer groups). Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to test the association between toothbrushing frequency and peer social networks.

Results:  Adolescents who met their friends moderately often and had stronger ties with their friends were more likely to brush their teeth twice or more a day; P = 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively. Club membership and number of close friends were not associated with toothbrushing frequency. Girls were significantly more likely to brush their teeth twice or more a day. They had weaker peer social networks than boys (P < 0.001). When adjusted for sex and father’s education level, all peer social networks variables were significantly associated with toothbrushing frequency. However, the interaction between sex and peer social networks variables was not significant.

Conclusions:  Peer social networks are related to toothbrushing frequency among Iranian adolescents in Mashhad but do not explain the differences in toothbrushing frequency between sixth grade Iranian boys and girls.
Tectonics, topography, and mammalian diversity
Authors: Badgley Catherine
Published: June 2010

Terrestrial vertebrates show striking changes in species richness across topographic gradients. For mammals, nearly twice as many species per unit area occur in topographically complex regions as in adjacent lowlands. The geological context of this pervasive biogeographic pattern suggests that tectonic processes have a first‐order impact on regional diversity.

I evaluate ecological, evolutionary, and historical influences of tectonics and topography on the regional diversity of terrestrial mammals, focusing on the hypothesis that diversification rates are higher in active versus passive tectonic settings. Ten predictions follow from this hypothesis. 1) The timing of peaks in speciation should be congruent with the timescale for tectonic episodes. 2) The rates of speciation and genetic differentiation of populations should be greater for species inhabiting topographically complex regions than spatially continuous landscapes. 3) If topographic complexity per se promotes diversification, then a cluster of young divergences should occur for montane species compared to lowland relatives. 4) Endemism in tectonically active regions should reflect origination within the region rather than range reduction from larger areas. 5) Extinction rates should differ for lineages in tectonically active regions compared to adjacent lowlands. 6) The relationship between local and regional species richness should differ between topographic settings because of higher beta diversity in topographically complex regions. 7) Species originating in topographically complex regions should colonize adjacent lowlands more often than the reverse pattern. 8) North‐south mountain ranges should have higher regional species richness than east‐west mountain ranges. 9) Areas with multiple mountain ranges should have higher regional species richness than comparable areas with single mountain ranges. 10) Global climate changes should affect diversification in tectonically active regions. Research addressing these topics places elevational diversity gradients into a geohistorical context and integrates data from modern biotas and the fossil record.
Lactoferrin impedes epithelial cell adhesion in vitro
Authors: Pöllänen M. T. , Häkkinen L. , Overman D. O. , Salonen J. I.
Published: June 2010

In the process of host defence against microbial challenge, neutrophils release granule contents with the potential side effect of damaging structural tissues. In the junctional epithelium such damage may contribute to the degeneration and renewal of the epithelial cells attached directly to the tooth (DAT cells), and subsequently to periodontal pocket formation. This study reports on lactoferrin, one of the substances released by neutrophils, and its effects on epithelial cell adhesion, growth, DNA synthesis and spreading of cell colonies at concentrations recorded in the crevicular fluid. We show that, in opposition to what has been reported on bacterial cells, lactoferrin has no effect on the DNA synthesis of attached epithelial cells in model systems attempting to simulate the DAT cells in vivo. However, both iron‐saturated and unsaturated lactoferrin hampered cell adhesion, growth and spreading of cell colonies in a dose‐dependent manner. These findings suggest that lactoferrin does not affect epithelial cell proliferation but it may have a role in delaying the repair of the DAT cell population during inflammation by interfering with cell adhesion.
A comparison of stereoIogical and computer‐assisted histomorphometric analysis as tools for histological quantification in regenerative studies
Authors: Leichter J. W. , Pack A. R. C. , Kardos T. B.
Published: June 2010

This study was designed to compare computer‐assisted histomorphometric analysis (CAHA) and stereology (STER) as measurement tools for evaluating the repair response during periodontal wound healing. Thirty‐six histological sections derived from 4 surgically created defects in the furcation of mandibular second premolars of sheep were measured by each technique to determine the furcation area and volume, and the percentage of new bone formation at 7 wk postoperatively. Slides were viewed in random order with the source unknown to the examiner (JL). One section from each of the 4 specimens was flagged for triplicate measurement by each technique. Intra‐examiner error was determined to be low as the coefficient of variation in each of the 2 techniques was between 1% and 40/. A consistently higher percentage of bone was identified using stereology. The coefficient of agreement was plotted to determine how closely these 2 techniques were matched in their respective estimations of bone fill in a furcation defect. This analysis revealed statistical bias between the 2 techniques and a low degree of agreement between them. This study demonstrates that the 2 techniques are not interchangeable. It also emphasizes that the reader must be cautious when comparing results from studies in which different systems of measurement and analysis have been used. Stereology was determined to be the measurement tool of choice due to its high degree of reproducibility, ease of use and efficient use of time.
Accuracy of quantitative digital subtraction radiography for determining changes in calcium mass in mandibular bone: an in vitro study
Authors: Christgau M. , Hiller K.‐A. , Schmalz G. , Kolbeck C. , Wenzel A.
Published: June 2010

The aim of this in vitro study was to determine the accuracy of digital subtraction radiography (DSR) to detect small changes in calcium mass in alveolar bone adjacent to tooth roots. In each of 4 dried porcine mandible segments, one interproximal and one buccal “defect” region was defined adjacent to a premolar root. A series of cortical and cancellous bone slices with a 50 μm‐stepwise increasing thickness (0‐5000 μm) were attached to the mandible segments covering the respective “defect” region. Standardized radiographs were quantitatively assessed for density changes using DSR. After dissolving each bone slice in hydrochloric acid, its calcium concentration was photometrically determined. For each bone slice, the mean calcium mass covering a single pixel of the subtraction image was calculated. The Wilcoxon signed‐rank test and the Mann‐Whitney U‐test were used for statistical analysis (α = 0.05). A strong linear correlation (r2 = 0.86‐1.00; p ≤ 0.001) was found between the thickness of the bone slices and their calcium mass. Cortical bone showed a 3.5 times higher mean calcium mass/pixel than cancellous bone. Furthermore, a strong linear correlation (r2 = 0.63‐1.00; p ≤ 0.001) was found between the mean calcium mass per image pixel and the radiographic density changes. Neither the bone type nor the “defect” localization had a significant influence on radiographic density changes caused by changes in calcium mass. A change in mean calcium mass per image pixel of 0.1‐0.15 mg was necessary to be detected by DSR. In conclusion, this study revealed a high accuracy of DSR to detect small changes in calcium mass in alveolar cortical and cancellous bone.
A quantile plot for simultaneous representation of clinical and statistical attributes of probing change: application to early identification of the downhill patient
Authors: Cohen Mark E. , Horning Gregory M.
Published: June 2010

When multiple periodontal sites are observed in patients over time there is an intention to identify those sites where there is important change, typically loss of attachment or increase in probing depth. A change may be declared if it: (a) exceeds a threshold level, and/or (b) is determined to be statistically significant (e.g. regression slope different from zero), perhaps after (c) that significance level has been corrected for multiple testing. These criteria are not often considered when clinical or research decisions are made and there is no universal protocol for their evaluation. A quantile (uniform probability) plot, modified to incorporate additional information, is proposed as a graphical method for the display of changes at multiple sites within a mouth. This plot identifies, for each site, clinical changes beyond a threshold, site‐wise statistical significance and statistical significance adjusted for multiple testing, These alternative criteria for attachment change are, thereby, made explicit, providing a detailed evaluative context. In addition, this methodology permits incorporation of an estimation procedure for the number of sites for which the null hypothesis of no change is false. This statistic can provide evidence of progressive disease even when no site has significant clinical or statistical change and even if the average change is zero. Use of the quantile plot was elucidated by application to simulated data, and to a clinical dataset using a BASIC program to automate the computational process. In the clinical example presented, the approach appeared more effective in detecting periodontal change than traditional clinical and statistical criteria. Pending technical refinement, this graphical approach may represent a new tool for the early identification of the downhill patient.