bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Value of database linkage: are patients at risk of familial colorectal cancer being referred for genetic counselling and testing?
Authors: Wong C. , Gibbs P. , Johns J. , Jones I. , Faragher I. , Lynch E. , Macrae F. , Lipton L.
Published: October 2007

Background:  Unique research opportunities are being created in an era of increasingly sophisticated data collection and data linkage. There are Familial Cancer Clinics (FCC) to counsel patients and families about risk reduction strategies and to carry out genetic testing where appropriate. There is currently no objective evidence as to whether appropriate patients are being referred to the FCC.

Methods:  Using a unique resource, the BIO21:MMIM informatics platform, we were able to link data from a prospective colorectal cancer (CRC) database at four Melbourne hospitals with the FCC database for the 4‐year period from 2002 to 2005. We determined the number of patients that, on the basis of at least one risk factor suggestive of hereditary CRC, could have been considered for FCC referral, the number that was referred and the number that attended.

Results:  Of the 829 new diagnoses of CRC 228 (27.5%) would potentially have benefited from FCC referral. Of these, 50 persons (21.9%) were referred and 32 (14.0%) attended. The highest referral rates were in young, early‐stage CRC patients with a family history and the lowest in late‐stage and multiple‐polyp patients. Patient sex, language and insurance status did not influence referral or attendance.

Conclusion:  The database linkage capability provided by MMIM has enabled us to carry out a unique study. The results suggest that the rate of appropriate FCC referral is low, that certain subgroups are at particular risk of non‐referral and that many referred patients do not ultimately attend. Interventions that increase referral rates and encourage attendance need to be considered.
Recombinant activated factor VII in critical bleeding: experience from the Australian and New Zealand Haemostasis Register
Authors: Isbister J. , Phillips L. , Dunkley S. , Jankelowitz G. , McNeil J. , Cameron P.
Published: October 2007

Background:  There has been increasing off‐label use of recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa/NovoSeven; Novo Nordisk, Bagsvaerd, Denmark) for patients with critical bleeding. Given the lack of high‐level evidence, the clinical indications, observed response and adverse events are important to capture.

Methods:  The Haemostasis Registry collects retrospective and contemporaneous data on all use of rFVIIa at participating institutions for non‐haemophiliac patients with critical bleeding (i.e. off‐label use).

Results:  As of October 2006, 694 cases had been reported into the register from 37 hospitals across Australia and New Zealand. These comprise an array of therapeutic categories, including salvage use in: perioperative cardiothoracic surgery (44%), trauma (16%), medical bleeding (9%), obstetric bleeding (4%) and other types of critical bleeding (28%). Patients received a median (interquartile range) dose of 91 μg/kg (75–103) and 83% of patients received a single dose of rFVIIa. The documented response rate to a single dose of rFVIIa was 69%. The 28‐day survival was 68%, but varied with clinical category. The rate of adverse events probably or possibly linked to the use of rFVIIa was 6%, with most of the thromboembolic adverse events occurring in the cardiac surgery group.

Conclusion:  The Haemostasis Registry cannot replace well‐designed prospective randomized controlled trials, but in their absence this registry provides a basis for understanding current clinical experience of rFVIIa. Registries continue to be vital in monitoring off‐label uses of medications.
The HFE gene heterozygosis H63D: a cofactor for liver damage in patients with steatohepatitis? Epidemiological and clinical considerations
Authors: Neri S. , Pulvirenti D. , Signorelli S. , Ignaccolo L. , Tsami A. , Mauceri B. , Misseri M. , Interlandi D. , Cutuli N. , Castellino P.
Published: October 2007

Background:  The altered status of iron metabolism is reported in hereditary haemochromatosis and in non‐alcoholic liver fatty disease. We investigated the relation between the H63D HFE mutation gene and non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Methods:  We studied as outpatients, 272 Italian persons with NASH and compared them with 430 healthy subjects. Genetic screening for haemochromatosis, haematochemical tests, liver ultrasound examination and liver biopsies were carried out.

Results:  The prevalence of heterozygosity for the H63D mutation in NASH patients was not significantly greater than controls. In assessing the C282Y HFE gene mutation alone, the percentage of heterozygosis for C282Y was not different in subjects with NASH compared with controls. As regards a mutation C282Y/H63D there was no significant difference between the two groups. The mean fibrosis score was not significantly different between subjects of group A, with and without HFE mutations (1 ± 8 and 1 ± 9, respectively); we did not find a significant correlation between hepatic iron concentration and histological score between subjects.

Conclusion:  We have not found a significantly increased prevalence of the mutation H63D in the HFE gene in our patients with NASH. In these patients there was no more severe hepatic histological score when compared with NASH subjects without HFE mutations.
Evidence‐based, multifactorial approach to addressing non‐adherence to antiretroviral therapy and improving standards of care
Authors: Herrmann S. , McKinnon E. , John M. , Hyland N. , Martinez O. P. , Cain A. , Turner K. , Coombs A. , Manolikos C. , Mallal S.
Published: October 2007

Background:  Near‐perfect adherence to antiretroviral therapy over time is critical to achieve viral suppression and recovery of functional immunity in individuals infected with HIV. The concept of adherence as a dynamic behaviour influenced by multiple biopsychosocial factors motivated us to implement an integrated, multifactorial programme in our hospital‐based setting. The aims of this study were to survey the scope and determinants of non‐adherence in patients attending the Ambulatory HIV Service at Royal Perth Hospital, to develop a method for longitudinal monitoring and to implement measures tailored to support individuals.

Methods:  The US Adult AIDS Clinical Trials Group self‐report baseline adherence, follow‐up and side‐effect questionnaires were used to survey 247 patients at two time‐points between September 2002 and February 2003. A longitudinal monitoring method was developed and the WA HIV Cohort Study database used to collate results with clinical markers up to December 2005.

Results:  Adherence was associated with viral suppression and CD4 T‐cell recovery and improved over the 3‐year period under observation (all P < 0.001). Diminishing adherence was associated with younger age (P = 0.002), substance use (P < 0.01), perceived stress (P = 0.04) and indicators of depression (P = 0.03). The analyses showed relationships between personal experience of side‐effects and the depression indicator scale in patients on antiretroviral therapy.

Conclusion:  The programme resulted in an improvement in adherence in our cohort even after adjusting for pill burden, dosing frequency and highly active antiretroviral therapy regimen and has enhanced focus on patients vulnerable to non‐adherence while supporting those not currently at risk.
Caveats and considerations for performing pancreas‐specific gene manipulations in the mouse
Authors: Magnuson M. A. , Burlison J. S.
Published: October 2007

Conditional gene targeting using the Cre/loxP strategy has proven to be very useful for studies of glucose homeostasis, tissue function and dysfunction in diabetes, and pancreas development. However, use of this strategy over the past decade has revealed a variety of experimental caveats, many of which are a direct consequence of the procedures used to generate Cre‐driver lines. We discuss frequently encountered experimental artefacts, the advantages of using bacterial artificial chromosome‐derived transgenes or performing a Cre knockin for improving the specificity of expression, and systems for regulating Cre activity. In addition, recent studies indicate that high amounts of Cre in the pancreatic β‐cell may cause glucose intolerance and impaired insulin secretion. However, these findings, while serving as a reminder for simple experimental controls, are unlikely to diminish utilization of this very powerful and useful technology.
Mutations in the ABCC8 gene encoding the SUR1 subunit of the KATP channel cause transient neonatal diabetes, permanent neonatal diabetes or permanent diabetes diagnosed outside the neonatal period
Authors: Patch A. M. , Flanagan S. E. , Boustred C. , Hattersley A. T. , Ellard S.
Published: October 2007

Aim:  Mutations in the ABCC8 gene encoding the SUR1 subunit of the pancreatic ATP‐sensitive potassium channel cause permanent neonatal diabetes mellitus (PNDM) and transient neonatal diabetes mellitus (TNDM). We reviewed the existing literature, extended the number of cases and explored genotype–phenotype correlations.

Methods:  Mutations were identified by sequencing in patients diagnosed with diabetes before 6 months without a KCNJ11 mutation.

Results:  We identified ABCC8 mutations in an additional nine probands (including five novel mutations L135P, R306H, R1314H, L438F and M1290V), bringing the total of reported families to 48. Both dominant and recessive mutations were observed with recessive inheritance more common in PNDM than TNDM (9 vs. 1; p < 0.01). The remainder of the PNDM probands (n = 12) had de novo mutations. Seventeen of twenty‐five children with TNDM inherited their heterozygous mutation from a parent. Nine of these parents had permanent diabetes (median age at diagnosis: 27.5 years, range: 13–35 years). Recurrent mutations of residues R1183 and R1380 were found only in TNDM probands and dominant mutations causing PNDM clustered within exons 2–5.

Conclusions:  ABCC8 mutations cause PNDM, TNDM or permanent diabetes diagnosed outside the neonatal period. There is some evidence that the location of the mutation is correlated with the clinical phenotype.
Functional analysis of two Kir6.2 (KCNJ11) mutations, K170T and E322K, causing neonatal diabetes
Authors: Tarasov A. I. , Girard C. A. , Larkin B. , Tammaro P. , Flanagan S. E. , Ellard S. , Ashcroft F. M.
Published: October 2007

Heterozygous activating mutations in Kir6.2 (KCNJ11), the pore‐forming subunit of the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)‐sensitive potassium (KATP) channel, are a common cause of neonatal diabetes (ND). We assessed the functional effects of two Kir6.2 mutations associated with ND: K170T and E322K. KATP channels were expressed in Xenopus oocytes, and the heterozygous state was simulated by coexpression of wild‐type and mutant Kir6.2 with SUR1 (the β cell type of sulphonylurea receptor (SUR)). Both mutations reduced the sensitivity of the KATP channel to inhibition by MgATP and enhanced whole‐cell KATP currents. In pancreatic β cells, such an increase in the KATP current is expected to reduce insulin secretion and thereby cause diabetes. The E322K mutation was without effect when Kir6.2 was expressed in the absence of SUR1, suggesting that this residue impairs coupling to SUR1. This is consistent with its predicted location on the outer surface of the tetrameric Kir6.2 pore. The kinetics of K170T channel opening and closing were altered by the mutation, which may contribute to the lower ATP sensitivity. Neither mutation affected the sensitivity of the channel to inhibition by the sulphonylurea tolbutamide, suggesting that patients carrying these mutations may respond to these drugs.
Sterol regulatory element–binding protein‐1c and pancreatic β‐cell dysfunction
Authors: Shimano H. , Amemiya‐Kudo M. , Takahashi A. , Kato T. , Ishikawa M. , Yamada N.
Published: October 2007

It has long been known that excess intracellular fatty acids cause impaired insulin secretion, referred to as β‐cell lipotoxicity. Sterol regulatory element–binding protein (SREBP)‐1c is a transcription factor that controls hepatic fatty acid synthesis. Activation of SREBP‐1c by overnutrition also inhibits insulin receptor substrate‐2 (IRS‐2) and induces insulin resistance in the liver. As SREBP‐1c is also expressed in β cells, we hypothesized that activation of SREBP‐1c could be a part of the mechanism by which saturated fatty acids induce β‐cell lipotoxicity. We found that nuclear SREBP‐1c has a negative impact on both glucose‐ and potassium‐stimulated insulin secretion as determined in islets from β‐cell‐specific SREBP‐1c transgenic mice as well as SREBP‐1c knockout mice. This effect of SREBP‐1c involves multiple functional pathways required for insulin secretion from β cells: (i) decreased ATP caused by energy consumption through lipogenesis and uncoupling protein‐2 (UCP‐2) activation; (ii) repressed IRS‐2 and pancreas duodenum homeobox 1 (PDX1) expression, leading to impaired β‐cell mass; and (iii) impaired post‐ATP membrane voltage–dependent steps of the insulin secretion pathway caused by upregulated granuphilin and other ion channel proteins. Saturated fatty acids, such as palmitic acid (PA), impair insulin secretion through SREBP‐1c activation, whereas polyunsaturated fatty acids including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) restore PA‐suppressed insulin secretion through suppression of SREBP‐1c. These data implicate a therapeutic potential of EPA against insulin secretion defects caused by lipotoxicity.
Regulation of β‐cell mass and function by the Akt/protein kinase B signalling pathway
Authors: Elghazi L. , Rachdi L. , Weiss A. J. , Cras‐Méneur C. , Bernal‐Mizrachi E.
Published: October 2007

The insulin receptor substrate‐2/phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) pathway plays a critical role in the regulation of β‐cell mass and function, demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo. The serine threonine kinase Akt is one of the promising downstream molecules of this pathway that has been identified as a potential target to regulate function and induce proliferation and survival of β cells. Here we summarize some of the molecular mechanisms, downstream signalling pathways and critical components involved in the regulation of β‐cell mass and function by Akt.
Evaluation of β‐cell mass and function in the Göttingen minipig
Authors: Larsen M. O. , Rolin B. , Raun K. , Bjerre Knudsen L. , Gotfredsen C. F. , Bock T.
Published: October 2007

Increased knowledge about β‐cell mass and function is important for our understanding of the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). The relationship between the two is difficult to study in humans, whereas animal models allow studies of consequences of, for example, reduction of β‐cell mass and induction of obesity and procurement of the pancreas for histological examination. An overview of results obtained in the Göttingen minipig in relation to β‐cell function, and mass is provided here. Effects of a primary reduction of β‐cell mass have indicated that not all of the defects of pulsatile insulin secretion in human T2DM can be explained by reduced β‐cell mass. Furthermore, induction of obesity has shown deterioration of β‐cell function and morphological changes in the pancreas. As in humans, obesity leads to an increased β‐cell volume in the minipig, and based on the increased number of islets, neogenesis of islets is an important factor in expansion of β‐cell mass in this species. Measurement of β‐cell function as an estimate of β‐cell mass is, at present, the only method possible in humans, and this approach has been validated using lean and obese minipigs with a range of β‐cell mass. The effects on β‐cell function and mass of obesity of longer duration and/or more pronounced hyperglycaemia remains to be determined, but the models developed so far represent a valuable tool for such investigations.
Type 2 diabetes – a matter of failing β‐cell neogenesis? Clues from the GK rat model
Authors: Movassat J. , Calderari S. , Fernández E. , Martín M. A. , Escrivá F. , Plachot C. , Gangnerau M. N. , Serradas P. , Álvarez C. , Portha B.
Published: October 2007

Now that reduction in β‐cell mass has been clearly established in humans with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), the debate focuses on the possible mechanisms responsible for decreased β‐cell number. Appropriate inbred rodent models are essential tools for this purpose. The information available from the Goto‐Kakizaki (GK) rat, one of the best characterized animal models of spontaneous T2D, is reviewed in such a perspective. We propose that the defective β‐cell mass in the GK model reflects mostly a persistently decreased β‐cell neogenesis. The data discussed in this review are consistent with the notion that poor proliferation and/or survival of the endocrine precursor cells during GK foetal life will result in a decreased pool of endocrine precursors in the pancreas, and hence an impaired capacity of β‐cell neogenesis (either primary in the foetus or compensatory in the newborn and the adult). As we also demonstrated that β‐cell neogenesis can be pharmacologically reactivated in the GK model, our work supports, on a more prospective basis, the concept that facilitation of T2D treatment may be obtained through β‐cell mass expansion after stimulation of β‐cell regeneration/neogenesis in diabetic patients.
New insights into the molecular mechanisms of priming of insulin exocytosis
Authors: Kwan E. P. , Gaisano H. Y.
Published: October 2007

Exocytosis of insulin vesicles in the pancreatic β‐cell involves a sequence of regulated events, whose normal function and efficient adaptation to increased demand are essential for the maintenance of glucose homeostasis. These exocytotic events comprise the trafficking and docking of vesicles to the plasma membrane, followed by fusion triggered by Ca2+. Recent studies have unravelled post‐docking steps mediated by novel factors, which, by their interactions with soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE)‐ and SNARE‐associated proteins, confer the docked vesicles fusion competence. These priming steps define the releasable pool of insulin vesicles, which accounts for the first phase of insulin secretion, and controls the rate at which vesicles are replenished for the second phase of secretion. This article aims to summarize what is currently known about the mechanisms that underlie the priming activity of these proteins, focusing on Munc13, a topic to which we have made some recent contributions. Abnormal glucose homeostasis in type 2 diabetes is because of the failure of islet β‐cells to augment insulin secretion sufficiently to compensate for reduced insulin sensitivity. A better understanding of the priming steps may help develop novel approaches to increase insulin secretory capacity and thereby prevent the progression to type 2 diabetes.
Secretory vesicle docking to the plasma membrane: molecular mechanism and functional significance
Authors: Izumi T. , Kasai K. , Gomi H.
Published: October 2007

In regulated exocytic pathways, secretion occurs only in the presence of appropriate stimuli. Professional secretory cells harbour specific storage organelles that release bioactive substances with both controlled timing and quantity in response to the strength and period of stimulation. Although each secretory organelle is highly differentiated in multicellular organisms, the basic regulatory mechanism is thought to be conserved. In most instances, the secretagogue increases the intracellular Ca2+ concentration from the resting level of ∼100 nM to somewhere between ∼10 and 100 μM. Although Ca2+ sensors of the final fusion reaction, such as synaptotagmin, have been investigated intensively in synaptic vesicle exocytosis, there are other preceding rate‐limiting steps influenced by Ca2+ and other secretory signals, especially in the exocytosis of secretory granules whose time course is much slower than that of synaptic vesicles. The stable docking of secretory vesicles to the fusion site that is only seen in regulated exocytic pathways may represent one such critical step. Here, we review the molecular mechanism of docking, mainly based on recent findings on insulin granules in pancreatic β cells, and propose a new concept for its functional significance in regulated exocytosis.
Intrauterine programming of the endocrine pancreas
Authors: Remacle C. , Dumortier O. , Bol V. , Goosse K. , Romanus P. , Theys N. , Bouckenooghe T. , Reusens B.
Published: October 2007

Epidemiological studies have revealed strong relationships between poor foetal growth and subsequent development of the metabolic syndrome. Persisting effects of early malnutrition become translated into pathology, thereby determine chronic risk for developing glucose intolerance and diabetes. These epidemiological observations identify the phenomena of foetal programming without explaining the underlying mechanisms that establish the causal link. Animal models have been established and studies have demonstrated that reduction in the availability of nutrients during foetal development programs the endocrine pancreas and insulin‐sensitive tissues. Whatever the type of foetal malnutrition, whether there are not enough calories or protein in food or after placental deficiency, malnourished pups are born with a defect in their β‐cell population that will never completely recover, and insulin‐sensitive tissues will be definitively altered. Despite the similar endpoint, different cellular and physiological mechanisms are proposed. Hormones operative during foetal life like insulin itself, insulin‐like growth factors and glucocorticoids, as well as specific molecules like taurine, or islet vascularization were implicated as possible factors amplifying the defect. The molecular mechanisms responsible for intrauterine programming of the β cells are still elusive, but two hypotheses recently emerged: the first one implies programming of mitochondria and the second, epigenetic regulation.
Organizational Form and the Economic Impact of Corporate New Product Strategies
Authors: Chen Sheng‐Syan
Published: October 2007

Abstract:  This paper examines the role of organizational form in explaining the economic impact of corporate new product strategies. I find that the wealth effects associated with the announcements of new product introductions are more favorable for introducing firms with focused activities than for those with diversified activities. The results hold even after controlling for other factors suggested in the literature that could affect the value of new product introductions. The findings in this study suggest that the efficient investment hypothesis dominates the internal capital markets hypothesis in terms of the net economic impact of new product introductions on the introducing firms.
Land pressure and customary tenure: Cropland allocations in Swaziland
Authors: Van Waveren Erik J.
Published: October 2007

This paper examines the effects of growing land pressure on the distribution and quality of cropland allocations on customary tenured land (CTL) in Swaziland. Within the wider Sub‐Saharan context, the reform of indigenous tenure systems is now generally seen as a process of adaptation rather than replacement. The legal recognition of (existing and future) user rights is considered a practical way forward. This essentially rights‐based approach may divert attention from technical inadequacies indigenous systems may have, particularly under conditions of increasing land pressure. The case of CTL substantiates such shortcomings. CTL has seen a marked growth in population and land allocations since Independence. This had led to concerns on the land distribution efficiency in view of the improved agricultural production required to sustain the increasing number of rural households. By analysing historical changes in the number, size and quality of cropland allocations in selected rural communities, this paper demonstrates the occurrence of a high degree of inconsistency in cropland distribution at the community level, as well as inefficient land distribution at higher levels of scale. These shortcomings threaten the sustainability of the local agricultural production systems, and will need to be addressed in any meaningful reform process.
Application of the DPSIR framework to environmental degradation assessment in northern Ghana
Authors: Agyemang Isaac , McDonald Adrian , Carver Steve
Published: October 2007

In many communities in northern Ghana, the environment has been altered by complex natural and human driven forces with significant impact on the lives of their inhabitants. The need to formulate an improved, holistic and consistent methodological approach to assess the problem is critical for sustainable natural resource management. This paper examines the potential of the DPSIR environmental assessment framework utilizing GIS‐based participatory methodology in the assessment of environmental degradation in northern Ghana. Community truthing tools such as key informant interviews, focus group discussions, participant observation and participatory Geographical Information Systems (GIS) were employed as a means of soliciting societal responses integrated to conventional GIS spatial analysis to measure the indicators of the Driving force–Pressure–State–Impacts–Response (DPSIR) assessment framework. Post classification GIS imagery results show a marked natural vegetation decrease of 634 km2 (42%) of the study area with a corresponding increase of 600 km2 (39%) of grasses and built‐up and barren environment in the period of 14 years from 1990 to 2004. This is attributed to extreme climatic conditions and human driven causes such as poverty, population growth, migration and land tenure system. Poverty reduction strategies, amendment of the Mining and Mineral Law (PNDC law 153), improvement of the existing land tenure system and the control of migrants and Fulani herdsmen from neighbouring Burkina Faso were some of the solutions selected by the research participants, to be emphasized in the National Environmental Action Plan (EPA Act 490). This paper concludes that the DPSIR environmental assessment framework is an effective means of organizing complex environmental information to facilitate policy decision making.
Implementing the UNCCD: Participatory challenges
Authors: Stringer Lindsay C. , Reed Mark S. , Dougill Andrew J. , Seely Mary K. , Rokitzki Martin
Published: October 2007

The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) emphasizes the need for public participation in land degradation assessment and rehabilitation. While participatory approaches are supported by a growing body of research and practice, meaningfully involving the people affected by land degradation is far from straightforward. This paper investigates the challenge of using the UNCCD as a guide to influence community participation in policy‐making and practice at national and local levels by analyzing experiences from three southern African countries. We show that the UNCCD represents a useful normative framework for addressing degradation problems, but that the participatory ethos is difficult to enact at the national level. Whilst there is increasing evidence that combining local and scientific knowledge using participatory mechanisms can deliver the benefits that the Convention strives to achieve, communication between researchers and practitioners, and those involved in implementing the UNCCD at the national level needs to be strengthened. Broad lessons and best practices in incorporating participatory practices into policy development are elucidated. Our case studies show that a range of mixed‐method, interdisciplinary approaches can enable policy‐makers and practitioners to meaningfully engage those who are affected by land degradation in its definition, assessment and rehabilitation.
SPATIAL DATA FOR RADIO COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS PLANNING
Authors: Kinch‐James D. G.
Published: October 2007

Accurate and rapid planning techniques are of vital importance when competing for business in the deregulated telecommunications market. This requirement, together with the arrival of personal communication networks, demands more detailed spatial data than are available now. This paper examines difficulties in current planning methods and considers the specifications of future data sets.

Les méthodes de planification précises et rapides sont ď une importance vitale lorsque ľ on est en concurrence en affaires dans le marché déréglementé des télécommunications. Ce besoin, parallèlement àľ arrivée des réseaux personnels de communication, nécessite une disponibilité de données tridimensionnelles beaucoup plus détailées que celles que ľ on a actuellement.

On examine dans cet article les difficultiés rencontrées dans les méthodes actuelles de planification, et ľ on réfléchit sur les spécifications des jeux de données dans ľ avenir.

Genaue und schnelle Planungsverfahren sind beim Geschäftswettbewerb aufdem nicht regulierten Telekommunikations‐Markt von auβerordentlicher Bedeutung.

Diese Anforderung in Verbindung mit dem Aufkommen von Personal‐Kommunikations‐Netzwerken erfordert detailliertere Raumdaten ah jetzt verfügbar sind. In dem Artikel werden die Schwierigkeiten der gegen‐wärtigen Planungsmethoden geprüft und Anforderungen an künftige Datensätze erörtert.
THE CARL ZEISS JENA RANGE OF PHOTOGRAMMETRIC INSTRUMENTS
Authors: Mark R.‐P.
Published: October 2007

Following the reunification of Zeiss Oberkochen and Zeiss Jena, some rationalisation has occurred in the photogrammetric equipment manufactured at each site. This paper describes the instrumentation currently available from the photogrammetric product division of Carl Zeiss Jena GmbH. The range includes the LMK 2000 aerial survey camera system, instruments for photo‐interpretation, equipment for analytical photogrammetry and the UMK 1318 universal photogrammetric camera system for close range applications.

Par suite de la re‐unification des sociétés Zeiss‐Iéna et Zeiss‐Oberkochen, on a procédéà quelques rationalisations dans la production des équipements photogrammétriques de ces deux sites. On décrit dans cet article les matériels actuellement disponibles aupres de la division des produits photogrammétriques de la Société Carl Zeiss‐Iéna G.m.b.H.

Il s'agit ďune gamme comprenant la chambre photogrammétrique aérienne LMK 2000, des matériels de photo‐interprétation et de photogrammétrie analytique, et la chambre photogrammétrique universelle UMK 1318 destinée aux applications à courte distance.

Nach der Wiedervereinigung von Zeiss Oberkochen und Zeiss Jena erfolgte auf jeder Seite eine Bereinigung der photogrammetrischen Produktion. Im Artikel werden die Geräte beschrieben, die gegenwärtig beim Produktbereich Photogrammetrie der Carl Zeiss Jena G.m.b.H. bezogen werden können. Dazu gehören die Luftbildmeβkammer LMK 2000, Geräte zur Photointerpretation und für die analytische Photogrammetrie und das Universalmeβkammer‐System UMK 1318 für die Nahbereichsphotogrammetrie.
INTERGRAPH INTERMAP: CONCEPT AND APPLICATION
Authors: Matthews A. E. H.
Published: October 2007

The features of the Intergraph InterMap digital photogrammetric workstation are described. The flexibility of the photogrammetric and image processing capabilities of InterMap allows the system to be fully integrated into a number of fields of special application without the need for a photogrammetric operator, but data handling should still be controlled by a photogrammetric expert.

On d'crit dans cet article les l'ments caracteristiques de la station de photogramétrie numérique InterMap d'Intergraph. Si la souplesse des possibilityés offertes par InterMap dans les traitements ďimages ou de photogramétrie permet au systéme de s'intégrer pleinement dans un large domaine ďapplication spéciales sans recourir a'ľaide ďun opérateurphotogrammétre, il n‘en reste pas moins que la manipulation des donnees doit rester sous le contrôle ďun spécialiste de la photogramétrie.

Beschreibung der Charakteristika der digitalen photogrammetrischen Arbeitsstation Inter Map von Intergraph. Die Flexibilität der photogrammetrischen und Bildverarbeitungs‐komponenten gestattet die voile Integration des Systems bei einer Anzahl von Sonderanwendungen, ohne daβ dazu ein photogrammetrischer Auswerter erforderlich ist, jedoch sollte die Datenbehandlung weiterhin von einem photogrammetrischen Experten gesteuert werden.
THEORETICAL MODELS OF THE ACCURACY OF DIGITAL TERRAIN MODELS: AN EVALUATION AND SOME OBSERVATIONS
Authors: Li Zhilin
Published: October 2007

This paper is an attempt to evaluate existing theoretical models for the accuracy of digital terrain models (DTM) both through a theoretical analysis and by experimental tests. In order to extend the discussion, some comments on the general form in which a DTM accuracy model should be constructed are also made and a possible solution is offered.
MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF THE ACCURACY OF DIGITAL TERRAIN MODEL SURFACES LINEARLY CONSTRUCTED FROM SQUARE GRIDDED DATA
Authors: Li Zhilin
Published: October 2007

This paper presents two mathematical models of the accuracy of digital terrain model (DTM) surfaces which have been linearly constructed from square gridded data, respectively with and without additional feature specific data. In these models, the accuracy of DTM surfaces is expressed as a function of a few parameters, such as slope angle, grid interval or the accuracy of raw data, which are familiar to practitioners in photogrammetry and other mapping related disciplines. These models are in a form similar to the conventional formulae for contour map accuracy and they are compared with experimental test results.
BUILDING A DIGITAL CLOSE RANGE THREE DIMENSIONAL MEASURING SYSTEM FOR LESS THAN £5000
Authors: Clarke T. A. , Robson S.
Published: October 2007

The use of CCD cameras for digital photogrammetry has only slowly been taken up by the photogrammetric community. However, the pace of change is quickening with better understanding and cheaper equipment. Recently a decision was made to start some research into close range three dimensional digital measurement. The overall objective was to develop a low cost system for the automated measurement of small industrial objects. This shorter contribution describes the initial stages of this work.
THE USE OF GPS FOR GROUND CONTROL IN BRITISH COAL OPENCAST
Authors: Hinds E. C.
Published: October 2007

Photogrammetry is used extensively in British Coal Opencast to provide surface profiles of both new sites and existing sites. This paper will discuss the development of GPS within Opencast and its deployment as a tool to provide the ground control required for mapping. Comparisons with conventional equipment will also be made and relative cost effectiveness assessed.

On utilise largement la photogrammétrie dans British Coal Opencast, pour déterminer des profiles de surface, à la fois dans les sites nouveaux et dans les sites en cours. On examine dans cet article ľ emploi du GPS dans ces mines et son développement comme outil permettant ď obtenir les points ď appui sur le terrain nécessaires à la cartographie. On se propose defaire les comparaisons avec les équipements classiques et ďévaluer les avantages relatifs coût/efficacité.

Die Photogrammetrie wird bei den Britischen Kohlen‐Tagebauen extensiv zur Beschaffung von Oberflächenprofilen sowohl bei Neuaufschlüssen als auch bei bestehenden Gruben eingesetzt. Im Artikel wird die Entwicklung von GPS und seine Entwicklung als Hilfsmittel zur Beschaffung der für die Kartenherstellung benötigten Paβpunkte diskutiert. Es erfolgen auch Vergleiche mit der konventionellen Ausrüstung und in bezug auf die relative Kosteneffektivität.
PHOTOGRAMMETRIC HEIGHTING ACCURACY
Authors: Neill L. E.
Published: October 2007

Users of photogrammetric data have often been puzzled by conflicting advice given by companies regarding achievable height accuracies which could be expected from varying scales of aerial photography. The author chairs the Photogrammetry Group which is convened under the auspices of the Council of the UK Land and Hydrographic Survey Association (TSA). The first aim of this Group was to establish some common ground among TSA member companies with regard to achievable heighting accuracies. A series of tests was carried out on the most commonly used photographic scales and guidelines were published to clients based on these tests.

Les utilisateurs des données photogrammétriques ont été souvent déconcertés par les avis contraires émanant des entreprises concernant les précisions altimétriques accessibles à partir de diverses échelles des photographies aériennes. Dans ce contexte, le Conseil de ľ‘Association britannique des levées terrestres et hydrographiques (TSA) a mis sur pied un Groupe “Photogrammétrie” et en a confié la présidence àľauteur. Le premier objectif de ce Groupe a consistéàétablir des bases communes aux entreprises membres de la TSA, en ce qui concerne les précisions altimétriques réalisables. On a effectué un ensemble ď essais sur les échelles des photographies aériennes les plus communément utilisées et ľ on a publicé, à partir de ces essais un opuscule destinéà guider les clients.

Die Nutzer photogrammetrischer Daten werden oft durch widerspriich‐liche Ratschläge der Firmen in bezug auf die bei verschiedenen Bildmaβstäben erreichbare Höhengenauigkeit verwirrt. Der Autor leitet den photogrammetrischen Ausschuβ, der unter Aufsicht des Council des UK Land and Hydrographic Survey Association (TSA) einberufen wurde. Erstes Ziel dieses Gremiums war es, eine gemeinsame Grundlage unter den TSA‐Mitgliedsgesellschaften im Hinblick auf erreichbare Höhengenauigkeit zu schaffen. Es wurde eine Reihe von Versuchen zu den am meisten verwendeten Bildmaβstäben durchgeführt, undes wurden daraufberuhende Richtlinien für Kunden veröffentlicht.
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAMMETRY AT THE INSTITUT CARTOGRAFIC DE CATALUNYA
Authors: Colomer J. L. , Colomina I.
Published: October 2007

Since its foundation in 1982, the Institut Cartogràfic de Catalunya has been dealing with digital images. Though digital images and techniques were initially confined to remote sensing, they have been gradually transferred to and combined with photogrammetry. In addition to the development of remote sensing and digital orthophotography systems, this expertise has facilitated the introduction of commercially available digital photogrammetric systems (scanning and stereocompilation) which are now in full operation. The paper describes the experience in scanning, orthophotography production and stereocompilation, draws some conclusions and gives an insight of the future of digital photogrammetry.

L‘Institut Cartographique de Catalogue s‘est intéressé au traitement des images numériques depuis le moment où il a été crée, en 1982. Bien qu'au début les images numériques et leur technologie aient été réservées à la télédétection, elles se sont trouvées peu à peu transférées et intégrées à la photogrammétrie. Ce savoir‐faire a permis le développement des systèmes de télédétection et ď orthophotographie numérique et a, de plus, facilité la mise à disposition sur le marché de systèmes de photogrammétrie numérique qui sont maintenant pleinement opérationnels. On présente dans cet article ľ expérience acquise dans le domaine du balayage, de la production des orthophotographies et de la stéréocompilation, on en tire quelques conclusions et ľ on termine par un aperçu sur ľ‘avenir de la photogrammétrie numérique.

Seit seiner Gründung im Jahre 1982 hat sich das Institut Cartogràfic de Catalunya mit digitalen Bildern beschäftigt. Obwohl digitate Bilder und Verfahren ursprünglich auf die Fernerkundung begrenzt waren, wurden sie schrittweise auf die Photogrammetrie übertragen bzw. mit ihr kombiniert. Zusätzlich zur Entwicklung von Fernerkundung und digitaler Orthophoto‐Systeme hat diese Erfahrung die Einführung kommerziell verfügbarer digitaler photogrammetrischer Systeme erleichtert, die jetzt überall in der Praxis angewendet werden. Der Beitrag beschreibt die Erfahrung bei der Abtastung, der Herstellung von Orthophotos und bei der Stereoauswertung und gibt einige Schluβfolgerungen und Aussichten in bezug auf die Digitalphotogrammetrie wieder.
THE PHOTOGRAMMETRIC SOCIETY ANALOGUE INSTRUMENT PROJECT: A THIRD EXTRACT
Authors: Burnside C. D.
Published: October 2007

The paper entitled The Photogrammetric Society Analogue Instrument Project was published in The Photogrammetric Record, 14(82): 565–582 (October 1993) and contained, as Appendix A, an extract from the Archive concerned with the history of the Zeiss Stereoplanigraph in Great Britain. In The Photogrammetric Record, 14(83): 769–782 (April 1994), three further Appendices were published which dealt with the Williamson Multiplex equipment and other instruments. In this third extract, the history of five other instruments of the Multiplex type are described. This brings to a close that section of the Archive dealing with instruments using direct optical projection.

On a publicé dans le numéro 14(82) (pp 565–582) ďoctobre 1993 du“Photogrammetric Record”ľarticle intitulé“le projet de la Société (britannique) de Photogrammétrie sur les instruments analogiques” et inséré dans ľannexe A un extrait des Archives relatif a ľhistorie du Stereoplan‐igraphe Zeiss en Grande‐Bretagne. On a publicé dans le numéro 14 (83) ďavril 1994 du“Photogrammetric Record”(pp 769–782) trois annexes supplémentaires qui traitaient de ľappareil Multiplex de Williamson et ďautres instruments. Dans ce troisième extrait, on présente ľhistorie de cinq autres appareils du type Multiplex. Cette partie des Archives qui traitait des appareils basés sur ľemploi ďuneprojection optique directe, se trouve ainsi achevee.

Der Beitrag mit dem Titel“The Photogrammetric Society Analogue Instrument Project”wurde im Photogrammetric Record, 14(82): 565–582 (Oktober 1993) veröffentlicht und enthielt als Anlage A einen Extrakt vom Archiv, das mit der Geschichte des Zeiss Steroplanigraph in Groβbritannien verbunden war. Im Photogrammetric Record, 14(83); 769–782 (April 1984) wurden 3 weitere Anlagen veröffentlicht, die vom Williamson Multiplex und anderen Geräten handelten. In diesem 3. Auszug wird die Geschichte von 5 anderen Geräten des Multiplex‐Typs beschrieben. Das führt zum Abschluβ desjenigen Teils des Archivs, das sich mit Geräten mit direkter optischer Projektion befaβt.
The Role of Cardiac Tissue Alignment in Modulating Electrical Function
Authors: CHUNG CHIUNG‐YIN , BIEN HAROLD , ENTCHEVA EMILIA
Published: October 2007

Introduction: Most cardiac arrhythmias are associated with pathology‐triggered ion channel remodeling. However, multicellular effects, for example, exaggerated anisotropy and altered cell‐to‐cell coupling, can also indirectly affect action potential morphology and electrical stability via changed electrotonus. These changes are particularly relevant in structural heart disease, including hypertrophy and infarction. Recent computational studies showed that electrotonus factors into stability by altering dynamic properties (restitution). We experimentally address the question of how cell alignment and connectivity alter tissue function and whether these effects depend on the direction of wave propagation.

Methods and Results: We show that cardiac cell arrangement can alter electrical stability in an in vitro cardiac tissue model by mechanisms both dependent and independent of the direction of wave propagation, and local structural remodeling can be felt beyond a space constant. Notably, restitution of action potential duration (APD) and conduction velocity was significantly steepened in the direction of cell alignment. Furthermore, prolongation of APD and calcium transient duration was found in highly anisotropic cell networks, both for longitudinal and transverse propagation. This is in contrast to expected correlation between wave propagation direction and APD based on electrotonic effects only, but is consistent with our findings of increased cell size and secretion of atrial natriuretic factor, a hypertrophy marker, in the aligned structures.

Conclusion: Our results show that anisotropic structure is a potent modulator of electrical stability via electrotonus and molecular signaling. Tissue alignment must be taken into account in experimental and computational models of arrhythmia generation and in designing effective treatment therapies.
Effect of Atrial Electrical Remodeling on the Efficacy of Antiarrhythmic Drugs: Comparison of Amiodarone with IKr‐ and Ito/IKur‐Blockade In Vivo
Authors: LINZ DOMINIK K. , AFKHAM FRENI , ITTER GABI , RÜTTEN HARTMUT , WIRTH KLAUS J.
Published: October 2007

Introduction: Amiodarone is the gold standard in the prevention of recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF), but the causes for its superior clinical efficacy are not understood. We hypothesized that atrial electrical remodeling increases the atrial efficacy of amiodarone.

Methods and Results: We investigated the effect of an acute intravenous dose of amiodarone on atrial refractory periods (AERP) in sinus rhythm (SR) and after 5, 24, and 72 hours of atrial tachypacing in comparison with the IKr blocker dofetilide and the Ito/IKur blockers AVE1231 and AVE0118 in five instrumented goats. Electrical remodeling progressively increased the AERP‐prolonging effect of 3 mg/kg of AVE1231 and AVE0118 (2‐fold increase in AERP at 72 hours vs SR, P < 0.01), but strongly decreased that of 10 μg/kg dofetilide (<0.5‐fold, P < 0.05, at 300 and 400 ms basic cycle length). After 5 and 24 hours of tachypacing, the effect of 3 mg/kg amiodarone strongly increased (2‐fold, P < 0.01 after 24 hours vs SR). This early gain in AERP prolongation was confirmed in anesthetized pigs with 3.5 hours of atrial tachypacing (2.4‐fold increase, P < 0.01). At 72 hours of atrial tachypacing in the goat, however, the early gain was lost and the effect of amiodarone was similar again to that in SR.

Conclusion: Atrial electrical remodeling changed the efficacy of the antiarrhythmic agents in a different way. The favorable efficacy profile of amiodarone during electrical remodeling, particularly the marked increase in AERP prolongation in early electrical remodeling, may explain its superior clinical efficacy over existing antiarrhythmic drugs.
The Limits of Peace: Third Parties in Civil Wars in Southeast Asia, 1993–2004
Authors: Möller Frida , DeRouen Karl , Bercovitch Jacob , Wallensteen Peter
Published: October 2007

At of the end of 2005, Asia had the highest number of active civil war dyads. The number of active dyads in other regions was either low or declining. Africa, in particular, experienced a sharp drop in the number of active dyads from 2001 to 2005. Civil wars in Asia also last longer than wars in other regions. With a high number of warring dyads fighting in long wars, the expectation would be that the region would be the focus of third‐party conflict management, but this is not the case. In this article, we use an original data set to take a closer look at this gap in expectations by focusing on third‐party efforts in Southeast Asia between 1993 and 2004. Bilateral talks were the most common form of third‐party engagement, but mediation has been the most likely form to lead to agreements between warring parties. We conclude the article with a discussion of the policy implications of this research.