bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transparent and Specular Object Reconstruction
Authors: Ihrke Ivo , Kutulakos Kiriakos N. , Lensch Hendrik P. A. , Magnor Marcus , Heidrich Wolfgang
Published: July 2010

This state of the art report covers reconstruction methods for transparent and specular objects or phenomena. While the 3D acquisition of opaque surfaces with Lambertian reflectance is a well‐studied problem, transparent, refractive, specular and potentially dynamic scenes pose challenging problems for acquisition systems. This report reviews and categorizes the literature in this field.

Despite tremendous interest in object digitization, the acquisition of digital models of transparent or specular objects is far from being a solved problem. On the other hand, real‐world data is in high demand for applications such as object modelling, preservation of historic artefacts and as input to data‐driven modelling techniques. With this report we aim at providing a reference for and an introduction to the field of transparent and specular object reconstruction.

We describe acquisition approaches for different classes of objects. Transparent objects/phenomena that do not change the straight ray geometry can be found foremost in natural phenomena. Refraction effects are usually small and can be considered negligible for these objects. Phenomena as diverse as fire, smoke, and interstellar nebulae can be modelled using a straight ray model of image formation. Refractive and specular surfaces on the other hand change the straight rays into usually piecewise linear ray paths, adding additional complexity to the reconstruction problem. Translucent objects exhibit significant sub‐surface scattering effects rendering traditional acquisition approaches unstable. Different classes of techniques have been developed to deal with these problems and good reconstruction results can be achieved with current state‐of‐the‐art techniques. However, the approaches are still specialized and targeted at very specific object classes. We classify the existing literature and hope to provide an entry point to this exiting field.
An Extension of Sampford's Method for Unequal Probability Sampling
Authors: BONDESSON LENNART , GRAFSTRÖM ANTON
Published: July 2010

Abstract.  Sampford's unequal probability sampling method is extended to the case that the inclusion probabilities do not sum to an integer. In this case, the sampling outcome is left open for exactly one randomly chosen unit and that unit gets a new inclusion probability. Three applications are presented. Two of them challenge traditional sampling routines. The simple Pareto sampling design, which was introduced by Rosén in 1997, is also extended. The extended Pareto design is shown to be close to the extended Sampford design.
The lived political economy of occupational overuse syndrome among New Zealand workers
Authors: Jaye Chrystal , Fitzgerald Ruth
Published: July 2010

In New Zealand, as in other industrialised nations, rates of work‐related gradual onset injuries increased during the 1980s and 1990s. The perspectives and experiences of workers suffering what became known as occupational overuse injuries in New Zealand offer insights into local lived political economies. Here, we explore the dominant metaphor, ‘battling’, in participants’ narratives. On the face of it, battles were fought over diagnoses, over occupational health and safety in the workplace, and over entitlements to therapy and income compensation. However, participants were also battling to maintain their identities as hard workers, while resisting and challenging normalising technologies of self and morally charged negative identities offered them by employers, state‐funded accident and injury insurance agencies, and the medical profession. Inherent in their narratives is a critique of the neo‐liberal capitalist political economy that allows workers’ bodies to be exploited (and sacrificed) for employers’ profits.
Economics of Human Trafficking
Authors: Wheaton Elizabeth M. , Schauer Edward J. , Galli Thomas V.
Published: July 2010

Because freedom of choice and economic gain are at the heart of productivity, human trafficking impedes national and international economic growth. Within the next 10 years, crime experts expect human trafficking to surpass drug and arms trafficking in its incidence, cost to human well‐being, and profitability to criminals (Schauer and Wheaton, 2006: 164–165). The loss of agency from human trafficking as well as from modern slavery is the result of human vulnerability (Bales, 2000: 15). As people become vulnerable to exploitation and businesses continually seek the lowest‐cost labour sources, trafficking human beings generates profit and a market for human trafficking is created.

This paper presents an economic model of human trafficking that encompasses all known economic factors that affect human trafficking both across and within national borders. We envision human trafficking as a monopolistically competitive industry in which traffickers act as intermediaries between vulnerable individuals and employers by supplying differentiated products to employers. In the human trafficking market, the consumers are employers of trafficked labour and the products are human beings. Using a rational‐choice framework of human trafficking we explain the social situations that shape relocation and working decisions of vulnerable populations leading to human trafficking, the impetus for being a trafficker, and the decisions by employers of trafficked individuals. The goal of this paper is to provide a common ground upon which policymakers and researchers can collaborate to decrease the incidence of trafficking in humans.
Untold Stories: Biases and Selection Effects in Research with Victims of Trafficking for Sexual Exploitation
Authors: Brunovskis Anette , Surtees Rebecca
Published: July 2010

Recent discussions of trafficking research have included calls for more innovative studies and new methodologies in order to move beyond the current trafficking narrative, which is often based on unrepresentative samples and overly simplified images. While new methods can potentially play a role in expanding the knowledge base on trafficking, this article argues that the solution is not entirely about applying new methods, but as much about using current methods to greater effect and with careful attention to their limitations and ethical constraints. Drawing on the authors’ experience in researching trafficking issues in a number of projects over the past decade, the article outlines and exemplifies some of the methodological and ethical issues to be considered and accommodated when conducting research with trafficked persons ‐‐ including unrepresentative samples; access to respondents; selection biases by “gatekeepers” and self selection by potential respondents. Such considerations should inform not only how research is undertaken but also how this information is read and understood. Moreover, many of these considerations equally apply when considering the application of new methods within this field. The article maintains that a better understanding of how these issues come into play and inform trafficking research will translate into tools for conducting improved research in this field and, by implication, new perspectives on human trafficking.
Remote sensing detection of droughts in Amazonian forest canopies
Authors: Anderson Liana O. , Malhi Yadvinder , Aragão Luiz E. O. C. , Ladle Richard , Arai Egidio , Barbier Nicolas , Phillips Oliver
Published: July 2010

Featured paper: See Editorial p553
Drought–mortality relationships for tropical forests
Authors: Phillips Oliver L. , van der Heijden Geertje , Lewis Simon L. , López‐González Gabriela , Aragão Luiz E. O. C. , Lloyd Jon , Malhi Yadvinder , Monteagudo Abel , Almeida Samuel , Dávila Esteban Alvarez , Amaral Iêda , Andelman Sandy , Andrade Ana , Arroyo Luzmila , Aymard Gerardo , Baker Tim R. , Blanc Lilian , Bonal Damien , de Oliveira Átila Cristina Alves , Chao Kuo‐Jung , Cardozo Nallaret Dávila , da Costa Lola , Feldpausch Ted R. , Fisher Joshua B. , Fyllas Nikolaos M. , Freitas Maria Aparecida , Galbraith David , Gloor Emanuel , Higuchi Niro , Honorio Eurídice , Jiménez Eliana , Keeling Helen , Killeen Tim J. , Lovett Jon C. , Meir Patrick , Mendoza Casimiro , Morel Alexandra , Vargas Percy Núñez , Patiño Sandra , Peh Kelvin S‐H. , Cruz Antonio Peña , Prieto Adriana , Quesada Carlos A. , Ramírez Fredy , Ramírez Hirma , Rudas Agustín , Salamão Rafael , Schwarz Michael , Silva Javier , Silveira Marcos , Ferry Slik J. W. , Sonké Bonaventure , Thomas Anne Sota , Stropp Juliana , Taplin James R. D. , Vásquez Rodolfo , Vilanova Emilio
Published: July 2010

Featured paper: See Editorial p553
BIODIVERSITY RESEARCH: Experimental introduction of the alien plant Hieracium lepidulum reveals no significant impact on montane plant communities in New Zealand
Authors: Meffin Ross , Miller Alice L. , Hulme Philip E. , Duncan Richard P.
Published: July 2010

Aim  There is debate over whether alien plants necessarily alter the communities they invade or can coexist with native species without discernable impacts. We followed the fate of montane plant communities in response to the experimental sowing of the alien weed Hieracium lepidulum, looking for changes in plant community composition and structure over 6 years.

Location  Craigieburn Range, New Zealand.

Methods  We used a replicated randomised block design, with 30 × 30 cm plots (n = 756) subdivided into 5 × 5 cm cells to examine and compare the effects of H. lepidulum at 0.09 m2 (plot) and 0.0025 m2 (cell) scales. Plots were sown with between 0 and 15,625 H. lepidulum seeds in 2003, forming gradients of invader density and cover. Measurements comprised community richness, evenness and diversity along with H. lepidulum density and cover at both scales. The relationships between the invader and local community attributes were modelled using hierarchical mixed‐effect models.

Results  Plant communities differed in the extent to which they became invaded, with H. lepidulum cover in the plots ranging from 0% to 52%, with a mean of only 1.89%. Plot species richness increased from 2003 to 2009, with a component of this increase (+0.002 species per year) associated with increasing H. lepidulum density. Other relationships between the plant community and H. lepidulum were generally non‐significant.

Main conclusions  In these montane plant communities, it appears H. lepidulum coexists with the native community with no measurable negative effects after 6 years on species richness, evenness or diversity, even where density and cover of the invader are highest. We suggest H. lepidulum has persisted preferentially at those sites with abiotic conditions sufficient to support a species‐rich assemblage.
Price Discovery and Dissemination of Private Information by Loan Syndicate Participants
Authors: BUSHMAN ROBERT M. , SMITH ABBIE J. , WITTENBERG‐MOERMAN REGINA
Published: July 2010

We delineate key channels through which flows of confidential information to loan syndicate participants impact the dynamics of information arrival in prices. We isolate the timing of private information flows by estimating the speed of price discovery over quarterly earnings cycles in both secondary syndicated loan and equity markets. We identify borrowers disseminating private information to lenders relatively early in the cycle with firms exhibiting relatively early price discovery in the secondary loan market, documenting that price discovery is faster for loans subject to financial covenants, particularly earnings‐based covenants; for borrowers who experience covenant violations; for borrowers with high credit risk; and for loans syndicated by relationship‐based lenders or highly reputable lead arrangers. We then ask whether early access to private information in the loan market accelerates the speed of information arrival in stock prices. We document that the stock returns of firms identified with earlier private information dissemination to lenders indeed exhibit faster price discovery in the stock market, but only when institutional investors are involved in the firm's syndicated loans. Further, the positive relation between institutional lending and the speed of stock price discovery is more pronounced in relatively weak public disclosure environments. These results are consistent with institutional lenders systematically exploiting confidential syndicate information via trading in the equity market.
Population Bottlenecks and Increased Hatching Failure in Endangered Birds
Authors: HEBER SOL , BRISKIE JAMES V.
Published: July 2010

Abstract:  Severe population bottlenecks are expected to lead to increases in inbreeding depression and to reduce the long‐term viability of populations. We compared hatching failure across 51 threatened bird species to test the relation between the size of population bottleneck and population viability. Bottleneck size was defined as the lowest population size recorded in a species. Hatching failure was estimated as the proportion of eggs that failed to hatch due to infertility and embryonic death, both of which increase with inbreeding. The size of the bottleneck varied from 4 to 20,000 individuals across species and had a significant negative effect on hatching failure, a pattern that was consistent when we controlled for the confounding effects of phylogeny, body size, clutch size, time since the bottleneck occurred, and latitude. Hatching failure varied from 3 to 64% across species and was more than 10% in all populations passing through bottlenecks below 100–150 individuals. Our results show that the negative consequences of bottlenecks on hatching success are widespread in the populations of species we examined, and emphasize the conservation benefit of preventing bottlenecks below 150 individuals.
Lifespan of Commodities, Part I
Authors: Murakami Shinsuke , Oguchi Masahiro , Tasaki Tomohiro , Daigo Ichiro , Hashimoto Seiji
Published: July 2010

Lifespan is an essential parameter for the accounting and analysis of material stocks and flows, one of the main research topics in industrial ecology. Lifespan is also important as a parameter that portrays the current and historical situation of industrial metabolism, which is an area of interest to industrial ecologists.

In the present article, the available information from various reports on product lifespan was reviewed. Although we found a large number of data for many durables, the definition of lifespan in published articles varied, which limited our ability to compare reported values. We therefore first defined lifespan and then compared the international and historical data.

We compiled more than 1,300 data sets from various sources and identified some differences among the types of goods and among regions. With the reviewed data noted in this article, we established a database, named LiVES (Lifespan Database for Vehicles, Equipment, and Structures), and will disclose it on the Internet to share the information.
Knowledge of Evidence‐Based Urinary Catheter Care Practice Recommendations Among Healthcare Workers in Nursing Homes
Authors: Mody Lona , Saint Sanjay , Galecki Andrzej , Chen Shu , Krein Sarah L.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVES: To assess the knowledge of recommended urinary catheter care practices among nursing home (NH) healthcare workers (HCWs) in southeast Michigan.

DESIGN: Self‐administered survey.

SETTING: Seven NHs in southeast Michigan.

PARTICIPANTS: HCWs.

MEASUREMENTS: The survey included questions about respondent characteristics and knowledge about indications, care, and personal hygiene pertaining to urinary catheters. The association between knowledge measures and occupation (nurses vs aides) was assessed using generalized estimating equations.

RESULTS: Three hundred fifty‐six of 440 HCWs (81%) responded. More than 90% of HCWs were aware of measures such as cleaning around the catheter daily, glove use, and hand hygiene with catheter manipulation. They were less aware of research‐proven recommendations of not disconnecting the catheter from its bag (59% nurses, 30% aides, P<.001), not routinely irrigating the catheter (48% nurses, 8% aides, P<.001), and hand hygiene after casual contact (60% nurses, 69% aides, P=.07). HCWs were also unaware of recommendations regarding alcohol‐based hand rub (27% nurses and 32% aides with correct responses, P=.38). HCWs reported informal (e.g., nurse supervisors) and formal (in‐services) sources of knowledge about catheter care.

CONCLUSION: Significant discrepancies remain between research‐proven recommendations pertaining to urinary catheter care and HCWs' knowledge. Nurses and aides differ in their knowledge of recommendations against harmful practices, such as disconnecting the catheter from the bag and routinely irrigating catheters. Further research should focus on strategies to enhance dissemination of proven infection control practices in NHs.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Role for Immunosenescence?
Authors: Lindstrom Tamsin M. , Robinson William H.
Published: July 2010

Aging is accompanied by a progressive decline in the integrity of the immune system, a process known as immunosenescence. Pathological features typical of immune dysfunction in older adults, encompassing dysregulation of innate and adaptive immune responses, characterize rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease whose incidence increases with age. Recent evidence suggests that certain features of immunosenescence, such as the decrease in T‐cell generation and diversity, may contribute to the development of RA. Thus, physiological immunosenescence may render older adults susceptible to RA, and premature immunosenescence may contribute to the development of RA in young adults. In addition, other features of immunosenescence may result from the chronic immune stimulation that occurs in RA and lead to worsening of the disease. This article reviews the immunopathological features common to aging and RA and discusses the mechanisms by which immunosenescence may contribute to the development or progression of RA.
Targeting and Managing Behavioral Symptoms in Individuals with Dementia: A Randomized Trial of a Nonpharmacological Intervention
Authors: Gitlin Laura N. , Winter Laraine , Dennis Marie P. , Hodgson Nancy , Hauck Walter W.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVES: To test the effects of an intervention that helps families manage distressing behaviors in family members with dementia.

DESIGN: Two‐group randomized trial.

SETTING: In home.

PARTICIPANTS: Two hundred seventy‐two caregivers and people with dementia.

INTERVENTION: Up to 11 home and telephone contacts over 16 weeks by health professionals who identified potential triggers of patient behaviors, including communication and environmental factors and patient undiagnosed medical conditions (by obtaining blood and urine samples) and trained caregivers in strategies to modify triggers and reduce their upset. Between 16 and 24 weeks, three telephone contacts reinforced strategy use.

MEASUREMENTS: Primary outcomes were frequency of targeted problem behavior and caregiver upset with and confidence managing it at 16 weeks. Secondary outcomes were caregiver well‐being and management skills at 16 and 24 weeks and caregiver perceived benefits. Prevalence of medical conditions for intervention patients were also examined.

RESULTS: At 16 weeks, 67.5% of intervention caregivers reported improvement in targeted problem behavior, compared with 45.8% of caregivers in a no‐treatment control group (P=.002), and reduced upset with (P=.03) and enhanced confidence managing (P=.01) the behavior. Additionally, intervention caregivers reported less upset with all problem behaviors (P=.001), less negative communication (P=.02), less burden (P=.05), and better well‐being (P=.001) than controls. Fewer intervention caregivers had depressive symptoms (53.0%) than control group caregivers (67.8%, P=.02). Similar caregiver outcomes occurred at 24 weeks. Intervention caregivers perceived more study benefits (P<.05), including ability to keep family members home, than controls. Blood and urine samples of intervention patients with dementia showed that 40 (34.1%) had undiagnosed illnesses requiring physician follow‐up.

CONCLUSION: Targeting behaviors upsetting to caregivers and modifying potential triggers improves symptomatology in people with dementia and caregiver well‐being and skills.
A Multicenter, Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Trial of Intravenous Ibuprofen (IV‐Ibuprofen) in the Management of Postoperative Pain Following Abdominal Hysterectomy
Authors: Kroll Peter B. , Meadows Laura , Rock Amy , Pavliv Leo
Published: July 2010

Background:  Ibuprofen and other nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs are widely used to block pain and inflammation in a variety of settings. Contrarily, opioid analgesia does not block the inflammatory component of pain and the use of these agents can be accompanied by serious side effects. We conducted a multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravenous ibuprofen (IV‐ibuprofen) as a postoperative analgesic.

Methods:  A total of 319 patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive 800 IV‐ibuprofen or placebo every 6 hours; in addition patients had access to morphine at a dose of 1–2 mg every 5 minutes. The primary outcome measure was median morphine consumption within the first 24 hours following surgery.

Results:  During the first 24 hours of treatment, the median morphine requirement was reduced by 19% (P ≤ 0.001) and resulted in a significant reduction in pain at rest (AUC, 6 to 24 hours and 12 to 24 hours, P < 0.001) and pain with movement (AUC, 6 to 24 hours, P = 0.010 and 12 to 24 hours, P ≤ 0.001) as measured by the visual analog scale (VAS) in patients receiving 800 mg IV‐ibuprofen compared to placebo. Time to ambulation was significantly faster (P = 0.018) in the IV‐ibuprofen treated group, as well. Similar treatment‐emergent adverse events occurred across both study groups and there was no difference in the overall incidence of these events.

Conclusion:  This study demonstrated that IV‐ibuprofen is an effective analgesic medication that is safe and well tolerated when administered as an 800 mg dose every 6 hours in patients undergoing total abdominal hysterectomy surgery.
Meningismus Associated with Malpositioned Intraspinal Catheter for Drug Delivery
Authors: Hoelzer Bryan C. , Knievel Sarah L. , Michiels Whitney B. , McGlothlen Gail L. , Grigsby Eric J.
Published: July 2010

Background:  Implanted delivery systems for intrathecal drug administration have become more common in the management of nonmalignant pain. Many postprocedural complications have been described in the literature including infection and headache provoked by position changes. Determining the etiology of a postimplant headache is important particularly when considering the possibility of a life‐threatening infection.

Case Report:  We present a patient who underwent placement of an implantable drug delivery system (IDDS) for intractable abdominal pain that developed positional headaches, and significant neck and back pain. Attempted cerebrospinal fluid aspiration reproduced her symptoms and imaging revealed a malpositioned intraspinal catheter tip approximated to the meninges. Revision of the system completely relieved her symptoms.

Conclusion:  Meningismus from malpositioned catheters is a rare complication that can mimic meningitis but should be considered in the differential for postimplant headaches. Given the increased use of IDDS, it is important to recognize and evaluate postimplant complication and treat it appropriately. We discuss this case report and appropriate work‐up and differential diagnosis for meningismus following implant.
Dominican Immigrants and Discrimination in a New Destination: The Case of Reading, Pennsylvania
Authors: Oropesa R.S. , Jensen Leif
Published: July 2010

The last decade has witnessed the diversification of immigrant destinations in the United States. Although the literature on this phenomenon is burgeoning, research on the experiences of smaller immigrant groups in new destinations is underdeveloped. This is especially the case for those from the Dominican Republic, a group that is expanding beyond the traditional gateway cities of the Northeast. Using a survey of Dominican immigrants in Reading, Pennsylvania, this study has two objectives. the first objective is to describe the prevalence of experiences with institutional and interpersonal discrimination. the second objective is to determine the extent to which these experiences are structured around racial markers (i.e., skin tone), forms of capital, forms of incorporation, and exposure to the United States. Our results show that a substantial minority of Dominican immigrants claims to have been treated unfairly, primarily because of their “race and ethnicity.” in addition, experiences with some types of discrimination are positively associated with skin tone (i.e., darkness) and several factors that are identified in models of assimilation.
A Novel Mutation in theHCN4Gene Causes Symptomatic Sinus Bradycardia in Moroccan Jews
Authors: LAISH‐FARKASH AVISHAG , GLIKSON MICHAEL , BRASS DOVRAT , MAREK‐YAGEL DINA , PRAS ELON , DASCAL NATHAN , ANTZELEVITCH CHARLES , NOF EYAL , REZNIK HAYA , ELDAR MICHAEL , LURIA DAVID
Published: July 2010

NovelHCN4Mutation. Objectives:To conduct a clinical, genetic, and functional analysis of 3 unrelated families with familial sinus bradycardia (FSB).

Background:Mutations in the hyperpolarization‐activated nucleotide‐gated channel (HCN4) are known to be associated with FSB.

Methods and Results:Three males of Moroccan Jewish descent were hospitalized: 1 survived an out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest and 2 presented with weakness and presyncopal events. All 3 had significant sinus bradycardia, also found in other first‐degree relatives, with a segregation suggesting autosomal‐dominant inheritance. All had normal response to exercise and normal heart structure. Sequencing of theHCN4gene in all patients revealed a C to T transition at nucleotide position 1,454, which resulted in an alanine to valine change (A485V) in the ion channel pore found in most of their bradycardiac relatives, but not in 150 controls. Functional expression of the mutated ion channel inXenopusoocytes and in human embryonic kidney 293 cells revealed profoundly reduced function and synthesis of the mutant channel compared to wild‐type.

Conclusions:We describe a new mutation in theHCN4gene causing symptomatic FSB in 3 unrelated individuals of similar ethnic background that may indicate unexplained FSB in this ethnic group. This profound functional defect is consistent with the symptomatic phenotype.(J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1365‐1372, December 2010)
Recent History of Vasovagal Syncope in a Young, Referral‐Based Population Is a Stronger Predictor of Recurrent Syncope Than Lifetime Syncope Burden
Authors: SUMNER GLEN L. , ROSE M. SARAH , KOSHMAN MARY LOU , RITCHIE DEBBIE , SHELDON ROBERT S. ,   for the Prevention of Syncope Trial Investigators
Published: July 2010

Syncope Prediction. Introduction: Accurate selection of patients for vasovagal syncope studies requires strong risk stratification and knowledge of the natural history of syncope. We aimed to test the hypothesis that recent history of vasovagal syncope compared to distant history better predicts subsequent recurrence of syncope.

Methods and Results:
In all, 208 subjects with a positive tilt test and ≥3 lifetime syncope spells were followed for 1 year. Syncope episodes in the preceding year and total historical spells were compared for their ability to predict a syncope recurrence using the criteria of optimal statistical significance, best linear separation of risk populations, and impact on power calculations.

The number of vasovagal syncope spells in the preceding year better predicted syncope recurrence when compared to total number of historical spells (likelihood ratio statistic 28.4, P < 0.0001; versus 20.4, P = 0.001), and showed a substantial effect as the number of syncope events increased. For example, syncope recurred in 22% of those with <2 spells in the previous year compared to 69% in those with >6 spells. A history of no syncope compared to any syncope in the preceding year was associated with a 1‐year probability of 7% versus 46% for syncope recurrence. A study designed to detect a 50% decrease in syncope recurrence at P = 0.05 with 80% power would require 159 patients with at least 3 lifetime spells, and only 108 patients with at least 3 spells in the previous year.

Conclusions:
The number of syncope events in the year preceding clinical evaluation is the best predictor of syncope recurrence. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1375‐1380, December 2010)
Defibrillation Testing at the Time of ICD Insertion: An Analysis From the Ontario ICD Registry
Authors: HEALEY J. S. , BIRNIE D. H. , LEE D. S. , Krahn A. D. , Crystal E. , Simpson C. S. , Dorian P. , Chen Z. , Cameron D. , Verma A. , Connolly S. J. , Gula L. J. , Lockwood E. , Nair G. , Tu J. V. ,   on behalf of the Ontario ICD Database Investigators
Published: July 2010

Defibrillation Testing at the Time of ICD Insertion. Background: Increasingly, ICD implantation is performed without defibrillation testing (DT).

Objectives:
To determine the current frequency of DT, the risks associated with DT, and to understand how physicians select patients to have DT.

Methods:
Between January 2007 and July 2008, all patients in Ontario, Canada who received an ICD were enrolled in this prospective registry.

Results:
A total of 2,173 patients were included; 58% had new ICD implants for primary prevention, 25% for secondary prevention, and 17% had pulse generator replacement. DT was carried out at the time of ICD implantation or predischarge in 65%, 67%, and 24% of primary, secondary, and replacement cases respectively (P = <0.0001). The multivariate predictors of a decision to conduct DT included: new ICD implant (OR = 13.9, P < 0.0001), dilated cardiomyopathy (OR = 1.8, P < 0.0001), amiodarone use (OR = 1.5, P = 0.004), and LVEF > 20% (OR = 1.3, P = 0.05). A history of atrial fibrillation (OR = 0.58, P = 0.0001) or oral anticoagulant use (OR = 0.75, P = 0.03) was associated with a lower likelihood of having DT. Age, gender, NYHA class, and history of stroke or TIA did not predict DT. Perioperative complications, including death, myocardial infarction, stroke, tamponade, pneumothorax, heart failure, infection, wound hematoma, and lead dislodgement, were similar among patients with (8.7%) and without (8.3%) DT (P = 0.7)

Conclusions:
DT is performed in two‐thirds of new ICD implants but only one‐quarter of ICD replacements. Physicians favored performance of DT in patients who are at lower risk of DT‐related complications and in those receiving amiodarone. DT was not associated with an increased risk of perioperative complications. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1344‐1348, December 2010)
Has Mechanical Dyssynchrony Still a Role in Predicting Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Response?
Authors: Porciani Maria Cristina , Cappelli Francesco , Perrotta Laura , Chiostri Marco , Rao Carmelo M. , Pieragnoli Paolo , Ricciardi Giuseppe , Michelucci Antonio , Jelic Sanja , Padeletti Luigi
Published: July 2010

Current guidelines for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) include electrical but not mechanical dyssynchrony assessment. Our study aims to investigate the effects of isolated or combined mechanical and electrical dyssynchrony, according, respectively, to a standard deviation of tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) derived time to systolic peak ≥32.6 ms and to a QRS duration ≥120 ms, in predicting CRT reverse remodeling. Method: One hundred ninety‐two CRT patients were studied. All patients underwent a complete standard and TDI echocardiography examination before and 6 months after CRT. According to baseline evaluation patients were divided into Group 1, patients with isolated electrical dyssynchrony (QRS ≥ 120 ms, TS‐SD < 32.6), Group 2, patients with isolated mechanical dyssynchrony (QRS < 120 ms, TS‐SD ≥ 32.6) and Group 3, patients with combined electrical and mechanical dyssynchrony (QRS ≥ 120 ms, TS‐SD ≥ 32.6). Patients were considered CRT responders according to ≥15 left ventricular end‐systolic volume (LVESV) reduction at follow‐up (FU). Result: At FU, 86 (45%) patients were responders. The highest CRT response rate was observed in Group 3 (62/119, 52%, P < 0.001 vs. Group 1). No significant differences in response rate were observed between Group 1 (13/47, 27%) and Group 2 (11/26, 42%). In Group1, CRT did not induce any significant change in LV end‐diastolic volume (LVEDV), LVESV, LV ejection fraction (LVEF), myocardial performance index (MPI), while in Group 2, LVEF (P < 0.001) and MPI (P < 0.05) were improved. In Group 3, LVEDV, LVESV, LVEF, MPI were significantly improved (P < 0.0001 for all). Conclusion: Our data demonstrate that the highest CRT response rate can be achieved by combining traditional QRS criterion and a currently used echocardiographic dyssynchrony parameter. (Echocardiography, 2010;27:831‐838)
Predicting Angiographic Outcome in Contemporary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Lesion‐Specific Logistic Model
Authors: ROBERTS ELVED B. , GRAYSON ANTHONY D. , ALAHMAR ALBERT E. , ANDRON MOHAMMED , PERRY RAPHAEL , STABLES RODNEY H.
Published: July 2010

Background:
 Previous angiographic lesion classification systems were derived from analysis of outcomes and lesion complexity in the early stent era. Advances in equipment design and techniques have altered the association between lesion and target vessel characteristics and procedural outcome in modern percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We evaluated the precise relationship between lesion characteristics and technical outcome on a lesion by lesion basis in a large dataset. We developed a multivariate model to predict technical failure in PCI.

Methods:
 Analysis of prospectively collected data on 10,800 lesions in 6,719 consecutive PCI cases between January 2000 and December 2004. Multivariate logistic regression was undertaken to identify predictors of angiographic outcome at each treated lesion (success/failure). Statistical model validation was carried out using data from a further 3,340 treated lesions in 1,940 consecutive cases.

Results:
 Independent variables associated with an increased risk of technical failure included total occlusion, severe calcification, proximal vessel tortuosity >90 degrees, lesion in a degenerate vein graft, and lesion angulation ≥90 degrees. The receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve for the predicted probability of technical failure was 0.85. Failure occurred in 2.2% of treated lesions in the validation set (ROC curve 0.82, model predicted 2.5%).

Conclusions:
 We have re‐evaluated the association between lesion characteristics and technical outcome in modern PCI. We have thereby developed a contemporary prediction model for angiographic outcome at each treated lesion. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:394–400)
Stent Fracture in the Coronary and Peripheral Arteries
Authors: ADLAKHA SATJIT , SHEIKH MUJEEB , WU JASON , BURKET MARK W. , PANDYA UTPAL , COLYER WILLIAM , ELTAHAWY EHAB , COOPER CHRISTOPHER J.
Published: July 2010

Inherent risks of stenting include restenosis and thrombosis. Recently, stent fractures have been recognized as a complication that may result in thrombosis, perforation, restenosis, and migration of the stent resulting in morbidity and mortality. Stent fractures were originally seen in the superficial femoral arteries but have since then been reported in almost all vascular sites including the coronary, renal, carotid, iliac, and femoropopliteal arteries.

Fractures are the result of the complex interplay between stent manufacturing, the stented segment, pulsatile and nonpulsatile biomechanical forces, and plaque morphology at a particular vascular site. The presentation of a patient with a fracture is highly variable, ranging from asymptomatic in nature, detected on routine screening without any sequelae, to sudden cardiac death related to a thrombosed coronary artery. Despite being recognized as an important complication, consensus on routine surveillance and diagnostic methods to detect fractures continues to be lacking. Fortunately, most cases are relatively benign and can be managed conservatively if detected. In the setting of recurrent symptoms, further intervention is usually sought. In review of the literature most cases are managed with placement of a stent over the fractured area, the stent‐in‐stent technique, but several other alternatives may be available. As the knowledge of the variables that make stents prone to fracture are identified, better technologies and techniques can be employed to minimize the risk of this complication. This article reviews the available literature on stent fractures and complications using data found on PubMed, MEDLINE, the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database, and the Cochrane databases. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:411–419)
Essai de typologie des centres de santé et de services sociaux au Québec
Authors: FLEURET SÉBASTIEN , APPARICIO PHILIPPE
Published: July 2010

Partant du constat de l’importance des facteurs contextuels (environnement physique, social et institutionnel) dans la compréhension des paysages de santé, cet article examine la situation au Québec et propose une typologie des territoires à l’échelle des centres de santé et de services sociaux (CSSS). Ceux‐ci desservent 95 territoires qui forment le découpage le plus fin en matière d’espace décisionnel en santé depuis une réforme mise en œuvre en 2003. Si l’offre de services de santé de première ligne est définie localement à l’échelle de ces territoires, l’allocation des ressources et la définition des grandes orientations des politiques de santé se décident à une autre échelle : celle de la province. L’enjeu est donc pour les acteurs du système de compléter la bonne connaissance qu’ils ont de leur milieu local, par une vue d’ensemble. C’est ce que propose cet article sur la base d’une analyse en composantes principales puis d’une classification ascendante hiérarchique qui conduisent à cartographier huit profils territoriaux. Les résultats obtenus démontrent que si les deux tiers des CSSS correspondent à deux profils peu différenciés, le tiers restant présente des spécificités très ancrées spatialement.
Transmetallation and gadolinium: Do low iron stores prevent the development of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in high‐risk end‐stage renal disease patients?
Authors: PANESAR Mandip , BOATENG Frank , PATEL Sagar S. , MASOOD Syed F. , MAHAJAN Pooja , PATEL Nilang , MURRAY Brian
Published: July 2010

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a systemic disorder that occurs in patients with renal failure and manifests as a thickening of the skin and flexion contractures of the joints. The etiology may involve an exposure to a gadolinium (Gd)‐based magnetic resonance contrast agent. It has been proposed that in hemodialysis (HD) patients, iron mobilization (decreased total iron‐binding capacity, increased iron level, and transferrin oversaturation) causes a transmetallation reaction and the release of free Gd from its chelator with the deposition of both Gd and iron in the affected tissues leading to fibrosis. The objective of this study was to investigate whether the use of gadopentetate dimeglumine leads to iron mobilization and to the development of NSF in HD patients. A retrospective chart analysis of 236 HD patients was performed and patients who had received a Gd‐containing contrast agent were selected for analysis of their iron studies before and after the Gd exposure. A total of 25 patients were identified as having had a magnetic resonance imaging study and all were administered gadopentetate dimeglumine and no patients had any signs or symptoms suggestive of NSF. Six patients had the appropriate iron studies, which showed no statistically significant difference in the serum iron, total iron‐binding capacity, ferritin, or transferrin saturation before and after exposure to gadopentetate dimeglumine. Our data suggest that the use of gadopentetate dimeglumine in HD patients did not cause iron mobilization and transmetallation therefore may partially explain the lack of development of NSF seen in our patient population.
Polycythemia due to obstructive sleep apnea in a patient on hemodialysis
Authors: NISTICO Amy , ILIESCU Eduard A. , FITZPATRICK Michael , WHITE Christine A.
Published: July 2010

Both anemia and sleep disordered breathing are common in patients with dialysis‐dependent stage 5 chronic kidney disease. Erythrocytosis resulting from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is rare in the general population and has never been described in the hemodialysis population. We present a case of asymptomatic isolated erythrocytosis and elevated serum erythropoietin level in an otherwise well and previously erythropoietin‐dependent chronic hemodialysis patient with chronic kidney disease secondary to ischemic nephropathy. There was no history or symptoms of cardio‐pulmonary or hepatic diseases nor any relevant family history. Screening work‐up for malignancies was negative. The clinical history was highly suggestive of OSA and severe OSA (respiratory disturbance index of 59) was confirmed by polysomnographic studies. Successful treatment of the OSA with continuous positive airway pressure resulted in permanent stabilization of the hemoglobin to levels below 13 g/dL without the need for repeated phlebotomies and in dramatic lowering of serum erythropoietin levels. To our knowledge, this is the first case of OSA mediated erythrocytosis in a dialysis patient documented in the literature.
Proteomic analysis of RCL2 paraffin‐embedded tissues
Authors: Bellet V. , Boissière F. , Bibeau F. , Desmetz C. , Berthe M. L. , Rochaix P. , Maudelonde T. , Mangè A. , Solassol J.
Published: July 2010

Histopathological diagnosis in most of the world's hospitals is based upon formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissues. Although this standard fixation and embedding procedure keeps the tissue in excellent form for morphological and immunohistological analysis, FFPE is inappropriate for nucleic acids and protein studies. We investigated the potential value of RCL2, a new non‐toxic fixative, for sparing proteins preserved in paraffin‐embedded tissues. Normal colonic mucosa tissue was fixed in RCL2 prior to paraffin embedding (RCL2P), and then processed for quality and quantity of protein conservation, as compared to frozen and FFPE tissues using complementary proteomic analysis approaches. Using 4 different protein extraction protocols, RCL2P tissue consistently showed the highest protein yield. Similar protein patterns were observed with RCL2P and frozen tissues using mono and bi‐dimensional electrophoresis. Moreover, membrane, cytoplasmic and nuclear proteins, as well as phosphorylated proteins, were successfully detected using western‐blot. Furthermore, protein patterns observed by mass spectrometry analysis after laser‐captured microdissection were found to be identical for frozen and RCL2‐fixed tissues. At last, immunohistochemistry using various antibodies showed comparable results between both tissue storage methods. We concluded that RCL2 has great potential for performing both morphological and molecular analyses on the same archival paraffin‐embedded tissue sample, and can be a new method for investigating protein biomarkers.
Flap vs. “flapless” surgical approach at immediate implants: a histomorphometric study in dogs
Authors: Caneva Marco , Botticelli Daniele , Salata Luiz Antonio , Souza Sérgio Luis Scombatti , Bressan Eriberto , Lang Niklaus P.
Published: July 2010

Aim: To compare the remodeling of the alveolar process at implants installed immediately into extraction sockets by applying a flap or a “flapless” surgical approach in a dog model.

Material and methods: Implants were installed immediately into the distal alveoli of the second mandibular premolars of six Labrador dogs. In one side of the mandible, a full‐thickness mucoperiosteal flap was elevated (control site), while contra‐laterally, the mucosa was gently dislocated, but not elevated (test site) to disclose the alveolar crest. After 4 months of healing, the animals were sacrificed, ground sections were obtained and a histomorphometric analysis was performed.

Results: After 4 months of healing, all implants were integrated (n=6). Both at the test and at the control sites, bone resorption occurred with similar outcomes. The buccal bony crest resorption was 1.7 and 1.5 mm at the control and the test sites, respectively.

Conclusions: “Flapless” implant placement into extraction sockets did not result in the prevention of alveolar bone resorption and did not affect the dimensional changes of the alveolar process following tooth extraction when compared with the usual placement of implants raising mucoperiosteal flaps.

To cite this article:
 Caneva M, Botticelli D, Salata LA, Souza SLS, Bressan E, Lang NP. Flap vs. “flapless” surgical approach at immediate implants: a histomorphometric study in dogs. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 1314–1319. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2009.01959.x
Seasonal meso‐ and microhabitat selection by the northern snakehead (Channa argus) in the Potomac river system
Authors: Lapointe N. W. R. , Thorson J. T. , Angermeier P. L.
Published: July 2010

Lapointe NWR, Thorson JT, Angermeier PL. Seasonal meso‐ and microhabitat selection by the northern snakehead (Channa argus) in the Potomac river system. Ecology of Freshwater Fish 2010: 19: 566–577. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract –  The northern snakehead (Channa argus) is a large piscivorous fish that is invasive in eastern Europe and has recently been introduced in North America. We examined the seasonal habitat selection at meso‐ and microhabitat scales using radio‐telemetry to increase understanding of the ecology of this species, which will help to inform management decisions. After the spawning season (postspawn season, September–November), northern snakeheads preferred offshore Eurasian water‐milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) beds with shallow water (∼115 cm) and soft substrate. In the winter (November–April), these fish moved to deeper water (∼135 cm) with warmer temperatures, but habitat selection was weak at both scales. Northern snakeheads returned to shallower water (∼95 cm) in the prespawn season (April–June) and used milfoil and other cover. Habitat selection was the strongest at both meso‐ and microhabitat scales during the spawning season (June–September), when fish preferred macrophytes and cover in shallow water (∼88 cm). Our results help to identify habitats at the risk of invasion by northern snakeheads. We suggest that control efforts and future research focus on shallow waters, and take into consideration the seasonal habitat preferences.
Isotretinoin: state of the art treatment for acne vulgaris
Authors: Ganceviciene Ruta , Zouboulis Christos C
Published: July 2010

Isotretinoin (13‐cisretinoic acid) is the most potent known inhibitor of sebum production. The multiple modes of action for isotretinoin, including suppression of sebaceous gland activity, normalization of the pattern of keratinization within the sebaceous gland follicle, inhibition of inflammation, reduction of growth ofPropionibacterium acnesin a secondary manner and, as currently shown, normalization of the expression of matrix tissue metalloproteinases and their inhibitors make this compound the single most effective in the treatment of severe recalcitrant nodulocystic acne, and in the prevention of acne scarring. Several generic formulations for oral use have recently been introduced, in addition to the brand formulations Roaccutane®and Accutane™ (Roche). This development, considering the high risk of teratogenicity associated with oral isotretinoin use, has led the European Commission and the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) to release a directive towards the harmonization of the Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC). This has similarities to US FDA regulations, a matter that caused the reaction of the Forum for the Improvement of Clinical Trials in Acne. Physician's experience, coupled with proper patient selection, dose adjustment or discontinuation of treatment, and routine monitoring for potential toxicity, has allowed the successful prevention and management of most adverse effects associated with isotretinoin.