bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multicenter Mitral Valve Study: A Lateral Approach Using the da Vinci Surgical System
Authors: Murphy Douglas , Smith J. Michael , Siwek Leland , Langford David A. , Robinson John R. , Reynolds Branden , Seshadri-Kreaden Usha , Engel Amy M.
Published: May 2008

Objective

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of simple to complex endoscopic robotic mitral valve repair, using a lateral approach.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected on 201 patients undergoing a lateral “ports only” endoscopic robotic mitral valve repair at three institutions. Techniques of aortic occlusion included the endoaortic balloon or a transthoracic clamp. The efficacy of the repair was measured intraoperatively by transesophageal echocardiogram.

Results

Two hundred one patients with a mean age of 55.2 ± 14.2 were intended to undergo elective robotic mitral valve surgery. One hundred eighty-six (92.5%) were scheduled for a repair procedure and 15 (7.5%) were scheduled for replacement. The repair was accomplished in 179 of 186 (96.2%) of patients. Eight patients (4.3%) required a conversion to sternotomy incision. Seven converted patients received a mitral valve repair and one received a replacement mitral valve. Mitral valve pathology included 10% isolated anterior leaflet involvement, 43% isolated posterior leaflet involvement, and 6% bileaflet pathology, and the remaining patients had dilated annulus, chordal rupture, or elongation. One hundred seventy-nine patients (96.2%) had regurgitation grade of 0 to 1 after repair. Two patients (1%) died. Other adverse events included reoperation for valve-related complications, 2 of 201 (1%); reoperation for cardiac-related complications, 3 of 201 (1.5%); and new onset of atrial fibrillation, 35 of 201 (17.4%).

Conclusions

A lateral endoscopic robotic approach to mitral valve repair is safe, feasible, and can be performed consistently with acceptable postoperative results. Further follow-up is required to determine the long-term efficacy of this approach to robotic mitral valve repair.
Minimally Invasive Anterior Thoracotomy for Routine Lung Cancer Resection
Authors: Stanbridge Rex De L. , Hon Jimmy K. F. , Bateman Elizabeth , Roberts Sian
Published: May 2008

Objectives

A 7-year experience with a minimally invasive approach to routine lung cancer resection is compared with standard lateral open thoracotomy.

Methods

All patients undergoing lung resection with curative intent for primary lung cancer between July 1998 and November 2005 by a single surgical team were registered. Surgical access was obtained through a mini 5- to 6-cm anterior thoracotomy with video assistance; direct visualization was also used extensively.

Results

Patients (n = 167) underwent major pulmonary resection for primary lung cancer. The minimally invasive group (MI), 137 patients, included 12 fully endoscopic or robotic approaches. The open lateral (OL) approach included 30 patients (18%). Both groups included pneumonectomies (8 MI, 3 OL), sleeve resections (3 MI, 2 OL), chest wall resections (2 MI, 5 OL), and pancoasts (3 MI, 0 OL) and had full lymph node resections. The Kaplan-Meier estimated overall mean survival was 64.5 months (95% CL, 58 to 71 months). Mean estimate survivals were stage 1a, 66%; stage 1b, 65%; stage 2a, 61%; stage 2b, 55%; stage 3a, 52%; stage 3b, 45%. Mean survival in the MI group was 64.3 months versus 59.3 with standard open access (OL) (X2 = 0.003 Mantel-Cox; significance, 0.959). In-hospital mortality rate was 2.2%; conversion from a mini to open procedure was 1.5%. Avoidance of rib spreading (soft tissue retractor) and small incisions appeared to have reduced pain and improved early recovery.

Conclusions

Kaplan-Meier survival for routine unselected lung cancer resection through a minimal access approach was not significantly different from the open approach and reflects published survival curves.
Simultaneous Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting and Ascending Aortobifemoral Bypass Graft via Ventral Abdominal Route
Authors: Rajendran Sunil , Prabhu Anil Damodara , Thazhakuni Ismail , Vellachamy Kannan Arunachalam , Vettath Murali Prabhakaran
Published: May 2008

Aortoiliac disease often coexists with coronary artery disease. It is not uncommon to subject a patient to two separate interventions. We report two cases in which in simultaneous off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting was done with an ascending aortobifemoral bypass graft through the ventral abdominal route without any additional morbidity. Combining a technically simple method of limb bypass with an off-pump cardiac surgery is a promising procedure for revascularization of myocardium and lower limbs. We discuss the merits of combining an off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting procedure with a limb bypass.
Management of a Catheter-Induced Pulmonary Artery Rupture: Early Presentation after Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Authors: Nwaejike Nnamdi , Bonde Pramod , Phillips Sally-Anne , Campalani Gianfranco
Published: May 2008

A frail, 79-year-old woman with small body habitus was admitted for elective coronary artery bypass surgery. She was known to have long-standing chronic stable angina with recent deterioration. Her only risk factor for coronary artery disease was that she was an ex-smoker of 6 years.
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafts Assessment at One Year by Noninvasive Multislice Computed Tomography and Invasive Coronary Angiography
Authors: Malhotra Rajneesh , Mishra Manisha , Khurana Poonam , Mishra Yugal , Meharwal Zile S. , Kohli Vijay , Bapna Ramesh , Kasliwal Ravi R. , Trehan Naresh
Published: May 2008

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the postoperative graft patency by multislice computed tomography (MSCT) and invasive coronary angiography (ICA) in patients with multivessel coronary artery bypass grafting at 1 year of surgery.

Methods

Patients (n = 114) who underwent isolated coronary artery bypass grafting at least 1 year (1.4 ± 0.4 years) previously were subjected to both 16-slice CT angiography with cardiac gating and ICA, and their results were evaluated and compared. All patients were receiving β-blockers; mean heart rate was 64 ± 6 beats/min.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 59.7 ± 8.5 years. There was a total of 338 grafts (113 internal mammary artery grafts, 8 radial artery grafts, and 217 saphenous venous grafts). On MSCT angiography, all the left internal mammary arteries were visualized with 3D reconstruction. All internal mammary arteries were found to be patent. Twenty-one grafts were occluded or stenosed (21/338, 6.25%). One occluded graft was on the anterior wall (1/20, 0.83%), 11 occluded grafts were on the lateral wall of the heart (11/128, 8.59%), and 9 occluded grafts were on the inferior wall of the heart (9/90, 10.0%); MSCT resulted in no false-positive diagnosis of stenosis (specificity, 100%). However, 2 grafts that were found to be patent on MSCT angiography were blocked on ICA (MSCT sensitivity, 96.3%).

Conclusions

Postoperative assessment of coronary bypass grafts is possible with an excellent resolution by MSCT angiography. Patency of bypass grafts can be checked by MSCT angiography, and the assessment is comparable with ICA.
Use of the Purified Poloxamer 407 for Temporary Coronary Occlusion in Off-Pump CABG Does Not Cause Myocardial Injury
Authors: Mommerot Arnaud , Aubin Marie-Claude , Carrier Michel , Cohn William E. , Perrault Louis P.
Published: May 2008

Objective

The new poloxamer 407 (LeGoo), a thermoreversible gel, previously showed efficiency in temporarily occluding coronary arteries and preserving endothelial function. However, its long-term effect on the myocardium after dissolution in bloodstream is uncertain.

Methods

Two groups of pigs (12 total) were compared after being submitted to a 10-minute coronary occlusion either with silastic loops (snare group) or with poloxamer 407 injection (P407 group). Reflow was procured by snare removal or P407 dissolution with topical cooling. Animals were kept alive for 3 days with creatine kinase-MB and troponin T (TnT) plasmatic measurement at 3 hours and 3 days after surgery, when they were killed for myocardial histopathologic study.

Results

Each animal survived during the study. Baseline plasmatic levels of cardiac enzymes were similar between both groups. No variation in creatine kinase-MB level throughout the study was seen in either group. A significant rise in TnT from baseline was noted 3 hours after reperfusion in both groups, with a peak level significantly lower in the P407 group (P < 0.05). TnT plasmatic levels returned to baseline level in both groups on the day the animals were killed (3 days). Histopathologic examinations of the stained myocardial samples showed no evidence of myocardial infarction either in the snare group or in the P407 group.

Conclusions

Poloxamer 407 does not cause myocardial damage after elimination in the bloodstream. The safety of this hemostatic device is now established, and application for FDA approval for human clinical studies is under way.
Impact of Preoperative 64-Slice CT Scanning on Mini-Maze Atrial Fibrillation Surgery
Authors: Meyer Cristopher A. , Hall Joseph E. , Mehall John R. , Wolf Randall K. , Schneeberger E. William , Vagal Achala S. , Strunk Rhonda S. , Hahn Harvey S.
Published: May 2008

Background

Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is emerging as a powerful noninvasive diagnostic tool. The appropriate role of this technique in the preoperative evaluation of cardiovascular disease has yet to be fully defined. Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, and novel minimally invasive surgical techniques have been developed to treat this condition by electrically isolating the pulmonary veins. The ideal methodology to preoperatively evaluate these patients remains debatable. We hypothesized that 64-slice CT could significantly affect perioperative planning.

Methods

Thirty-six consecutive patients who consented to undergo minimally invasive pulmonary vein isolation at our institution underwent a preoperative 64-slice cardiac CT scan. All cardiac and noncardiac abnormalities were recorded, and modifications to the initial surgical plan were documented.

Results

The mean patient age was 64.4 ± 11.9 years [26 men (72.2%), 17 with known coronary artery disease (47.2%)]. Preoperative CT scanning detected 12 patients with abnormal pulmonary venous anatomy (33.3%), 3 with left atrial thrombus (8.3%), and 17 with significant coronary artery disease (47.2%). Furthermore, 20 studies (55.6%) detected pulmonary abnormalities (including 11 nodules). Preoperative scanning significantly altered surgical planning in 10 cases (27.8%). Alterations in patient treatment included preoperative invasive angiography, conversion of the mini-maze to an open chest procedure, alteration of surgical approach, and postponement/cancellation.

Conclusions

Sixty-four-slice CT scanning is a safe, rapid, and accurate procedure with important ramifications for surgical planning. This methodology could become an alternative approach to screen preoperative cardiac surgical patients.
Platelet Function Changes in Different Cardiac Surgery Subgroups as Evaluated with an Innovative Technology
Authors: Gerrah Rabin , Brill Alex , Varon David
Published: May 2008

Objectives

During cardiac surgery, platelets undergo substantial changes. The purpose of this study was to assess platelet function and compare these changes between different cardiac operations using an innovative technology.

Methods

Perioperative platelet function was evaluated by the Impact test [cone and plate(let) analyzer (CPA)]. The Impact test yields 2 parameters for platelet function: average size (AS, the mean size of the platelet aggregates) and surface coverage (SC, the percentage of the surface covered by the platelet aggregates), which correspond to platelet aggregation and adhesion. The study groups were compared for platelet function results in various surgery stages and correlation with bleeding.

Results

A significant decrease in surface coverage was detected on establishment of cardiopulmonary bypass, with an increase up to preoperative values at the end of the surgery in all groups. In contrast to operations performed on bypass, in patients operated without cardiopulmonary bypass, the postoperative AS and SC were higher than the preoperative values, 30.4 ± 8.1 μmol2 versus 23.3 ± 6.9 μmol2, P = 0.02 in AS, and 7.6 ± 3.6% versus 5.2 ± 1.8%, P = 0.04 in SC Preoperative AS and SC were the only parameters significantly (P = 0.01) and linearly (r = 0.6) related to postoperative bleeding.

Conclusions

Preoperative platelet function, as evaluated by the CPA, is an independent risk factor determining postoperative bleeding. The off-pump patients presented an increased platelet function at the end of surgery, a finding that can imply a higher risk of thrombosis. The impact test appears to be a useful tool to determine perioperative platelet function and help in prediction of postoperative bleeding.
Traumatic Suprahepatic Inferior Vena Cava Injury: Surgical Management
Authors: Prabhu Anil D. , Karim Rafeek A. , Thazhkuni Ismail E. , Rajendran Sunil , Thamaran Ranjish A. , Vellachamy Kannan A. , Sridharan Varadaraj , Vettath Murali P.
Published: May 2008

Suprahepatic inferior vena caval (IVC) injuries are rare but carry nearly a 100% mortality rate. The main problem with its surgical management is the technical difficulty in draining the IVC during cardiopulmonary bypass. In this report, an efficient method of IVC drainage for repair of the IVC on cardiopulmonary bypass is described.
Influence of Prior Coronary Stenting on the Immediate and Mid-term Outcome of Isolated Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Authors: Pliam Michael B. , Zapolanski Alex , Anastassiou Peter , Ryan Colman J. , Manila Louis L. , Shaw Richard E. , Pira Bob-Kenneth
Published: May 2008

Background

There has been little emphasis on the possible consequences of prior stent placement on the outcome of coronary bypass surgery (CABG). We compared the results of isolated CABG patients who had prior stents with those who had not with respect to preoperative status, operative procedure, and postoperative immediate and long-term outcome.

Methods

Records of 1471 patients undergoing isolated CABG at our institution between January 1, 2000, and March 31, 2005, were reviewed. Patients were divided into three groups. Group I had no stents (n = 1317). Group II had one to three stents (n = 137). Group III had more than three stents (n = 17). Groups were compared with respect to preoperative risk factors, operative procedures, and postoperative results. Long-term survival data were obtained on 97.6% of patients with a mean follow-up, 4.1 ± 2.3 years.

Results

Stented patients were younger (66.1 ± 10.8 vs. 69.1 ± 10.8 years, P = 0.006), had more unstable angina (68.2% vs. 58.9%, P = 0.02), hypercholesterolemia (83.8% vs. 61.2%, P = 0.00), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (13.6% vs. 8.4%, P = 0.03), peripheral vascular disease (15.2% vs. 8.4%, P = 0.00), and previous CABG (10.1% vs. 4.2%, P = 0.00), fewer low ejection fractions (1.3% vs. 5.2%, P = 0.02), left main disease (25.3% vs. 32.6%, P = 0.04), diabetes (31.2% vs. 40.8%, P = 0.01), or diffuse disease (19.5 ± 10.5 vs. 22.5 ± 10.9, P = 0.00), had more off pump procedures (53.2% vs. 45.3%, P = 0.03), fewer internal thoracic artery grafts (80.5% vs. 86.6%, P = 0.03), fewer grafts placed (>3: 52.6% vs. 61.8%, P = 0.02), more complications (76.5% vs. 42.6%, P = 0.005), atrial fibrillation (47.1% vs. 19.7%, P = 0.011), longer hospital stays (12.2 vs. 8.3 days, P = 0.019). Percentage survival for groups I, II, and III at 60 months was 82.1%, 84.7%, and 72.6%, respectively.

Conclusions

Stents placed before surgery in isolated CABG patients may be associated with higher preoperative risk, altered operative procedures, more postoperative complications, longer hospitalizations, and more readmissions. Overall, stented patients experienced more preoperative hospitalizations, catheterizations, and percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) than nonstented patients. Survival for those with more than three stents may be diminished.
Prospective Evaluation of Patency and Early Experience Utilizing an Automated Distal Anastomosis Device (C-Port)
Authors: Cai Tung H. , Acuff Tea E. , Bolton J. W. Randolph , Dizney Lauren R. , Poon Michael
Published: May 2008

Background

In November 2005, a new automated distal anastomotic device (C-Port) for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) was cleared by the FDA for use in the United States. This study represents a prospective evaluation of our early experience using the device with graft patency assessment determined by 64 slice multidetector row computed tomography angiography (64CT).

Materials and Methods

Patients undergoing coronary artery bypass were evaluated preoperatively by cine angiography for possible use of the C-Port system. A final decision for its use was made clinically at operation based on target vessel and vein graft specifications. Patency of the grafts was evaluated at 1 to 7 months (average 91 days) by 64CT with IRB approval and signed informed consent.

Results

The C-Port device was used to form 69 distal anastomoses in 50 patients (46 CABG were performed off pump). There were eight misfires with no adverse effects for an immediate success rate of 88.4%. Thirty-five of 41 patients were available postoperatively for evaluation by 64CT (85.4% follow-up). There was one postoperative death. Seventeen sequential anastomoses were excluded because of inability to reliably evaluate patency by 64CT. Four 64CT scans were uninterpretable. For the remaining 31 patients, 64CT scans were used to evaluate for graft patency. The overall patency rate for all anastomoses was 94.5% (86/91) with selected patency for internal mammary artery of 100% (28/28), for C-Port connectors of 93.3% (42/45), and for hand-sewn venous end-to-side anastomosis of 88.9% (16/18). The difference in patency between C-Port anastomoses and hand sewn was not statistically significant (P = 0.62).

Conclusions

The C-Port system provides reliable and reproducible compliant automated distal venous anastomoses, which results in acceptable patency at intermediate follow-up. With proper training, the learning curve for using this connector system is relatively short and the need to abandon the procedure is low. 64CT is an excellent noninvasive method for cardiac surgeons and their institutions to accurately evaluate their actual surgical results.
Robotic-Assisted Excision of a Left Ventricular Thrombus
Authors: Lutz Charles J. , Bhamidipati Castigliano M. , Ford Brant , Swartz Mike , Hauser Michael , Kyobe Moses , Dilip Karikehalli
Published: May 2008

Objective

Left ventricular thrombus is a rare entity usually associated with myocardial infarction. The daVinci Surgical System (Intuitive Surgical, Inc., Sunnyvale, Calif) offers excellent visualization of the mitral subvalvular apparatus and should provide an effective means to excise a left ventricular mass.

Methods

A 34-year-old man presented to an outside institution with fever of unknown origin and ulcerative colitis. As part of this workup, he underwent a transthoracic echocardiogram and subsequently a transesophageal echocardiogram that showed a 2-cm left ventricular apical pedunculated mass. He was referred to our institution for excision of this ventricular mass. Because of the pedunculated nature of the mass, he was deemed a candidate for a robotic-assisted minimally invasive approach.

Results

The patient underwent successful robotic-assisted excision of a left ventricular mass. Total robotic time was 15 minutes. Pathology revealed that the mass was a left ventricular thrombus. The patient experienced an uneventful recovery and was discharged home in 4 days.

Conclusions

Left ventricular mass excision can be safely performed with the daVinci Surgical System. The daVinci Surgical System offers excellent visualization of the entire left ventricular cavity.
“Spot” ECGs Underestimate Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence after Surgical Ablation
Authors: Puskas John D. , Corvera Joel S. , Neill Alexis , Kilgo Patrick , Vassiliades Thomas , Guyton Robert A.
Published: May 2008

Objective

Historically, success of surgical treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) has been measured by electrocardiograms (ECGs) at various intervals. However, continuous monitoring of cardiac rhythms by “autocapture” devices has recently become more available and convenient. The concordance of measurements of freedom from AF by these two techniques has not been reported after surgical ablation.

Methods

Between August 2005 and May 2006, 47 patients at a single academic center underwent surgical ablation procedures for AF and had recurrence of AF assessed by both “spot” 12-lead ECG and autocapture event monitoring. Forty-one ablation procedures were concomitant with other cardiac surgery and six were stand alone, nonsternotomy procedures. Agreement between these diagnostic modes was measured using the κ statistic at 3, 6, and 12 months (κ of 1 is perfect agreement, 0 is no agreement). McNemar test was employed to determine whether agreement significantly changed from 3 to 12 months.

Results

At 3 months follow-up, spot ECGs suggested that 81% (38 of 47) of surgical patients were free of any AF, whereas 1-week event recordings found only 70% (31 of 44) of patients were free of any AF. At 6 months, spot ECGs estimated that 87% (40 of 46) of surgical patients were free of AF; 1-week event recordings found only 74% (34 of 46) of patients were free of AF. At 12 months, spot ECGs estimated that 84% (26 of 31) of surgical patients were free of AF compared with only 68% (19 of 28) as measured by the 1-week event recorder. The κ measures (with 95% confidence interval) at 3, 6, and 12 months were 0.52 (0.24–0.80), 0.60 (0.32–0.87), and 0.63 (0.32–0.94) respectively, showing only moderate agreement. McNemar test showed no significant shift in agreement from 3 to 6 months (P = 0.7055), 3 to 12 months (P = 1.000), or 6 to 12 months (P = 1.000). There were no deaths or strokes, but one myocardial infarction among these 47 patients during 12 months follow-up.

Conclusions

“Spot” ECGs underestimate the incidence of recurrent AF after surgical ablation for AF and show poor agreement with the more reliable 1-week autocapture event recordings.
How Does Successful Off-Pump Pulmonary Vein Isolation for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation Influence Heart Rate Variability and Autonomic Activity?
Authors: Suwalski Grzegorz , Suwalski Piotr , Kalisnik Jurij M. , Sledz Mariusz , Switaj Julita , Czachor Marcin , Gersak Borut , Suwalski Kazimierz B.
Published: May 2008

Objective

Surgical pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) blocks trigger stimulation from PVs and partially disconnects the atria from sympathetic and parasympathetic neural stimulation. This study describes long-term changes in heart rate variability (HRV) and autonomic activity (AA) after successful bipolar radiofrequency PVI.

Methods

Twenty-seven patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting and successful (defined as stable sinus rhythm for 1 year) off-pump bipolar radiofrequency PVI for PAF were prospectively followed 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery including 24 hours Holter electrocardiogram. The following HRV and AA parameters were calculated: mean NN-interval, SD of NN-intervals, SD of averaged NN-intervals, root mean square of successive differences, low frequency (LF) power (0.04–0.15 Hz; a parameter specific for sympathetic activity), high frequency (HF) power (0.15–0.4 Hz; a parameter specific for parasympathetic activity), and the LF:HF ratio.

Results

Preoperatively, high HRV and AA parameters were recorded. In 3-, 6-, and 12-month time, a progressive reduction of HRV and AA was observed, reaching significance after 12 months. Respective rates before surgery and 12 months after it were: for SD of averaged NN-intervals (122.4 ± 113; 80.5 ± 42 milliseconds; P = 0.046), for root mean square of successive differences (79.2 ± 93; 45 ± 20 milliseconds; P = 0.04). The LF:HF ratios were 1.22 and 0.73 before and 12 months after surgery, respectively. The statistically significant continuous reduction in LF:HF ratio (P = 0.02) is suggestive of a progressive parasympathetic dominance 12 months after surgery.

Conclusions

Successful PVI for PAF results in HRV and sympathetic activity reduction with preoperative sympathetic dominance and oncoming vagal dominance after 1 year from surgery. Despite preoperative sympathetic dominance, successful PVI for PAF results in HRV and a reduction in sympathetic activity with emerging parasympathetic dominance 12 months after surgery.
Propensity-Score Analysis of Early Outcomes after Bilateral versus Single Internal Thoracic Artery Grafting
Authors: Pusca Sorin V. , Kilgo Patrick D. , Vega J. David , Cooper William A. , Vassiliades Thomas A. , Chen Edward P. , Lattouf Omar M. , Guyton Robert A. , Puskas John D.
Published: May 2008

Objective

The use of bilateral internal thoracic arteries (BITAs) during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) improves long-term and event-free survival compared with single internal thoracic artery (SITA) grafting. It is controversial whether BITA grafting alters in-hospital adverse events after CABG.

Methods

Isolated CABG cases using BITA or SITA at a single US academic center between January 1, 1997 and June 30, 2006 were retrospectively reviewed. A propensity score was used as a covariate to balance the treatment groups (BITA and SITA) with respect to 44 preoperative risk factors. A multivariable logistic regression model tested whether treatment type was significantly associated with in-hospital death, deep sternal wound infection (DSWI), or hospital length of stay (LOS).

Results

There were 599 BITA and 10,212 SITA cases performed. Overall for all BITA versus SITA cases, adjusted mortality (0.8% vs. 1.7%, P = 0.85) was not different between the groups. However, adjusted incidence of DSWI (2.0% vs. 1.2%, P = 0.036) and LOS (6.7 vs. 6.1, P = 0.025) were significantly higher in BITA patients. Subsets analyses of obese patients and diabetic patients revealed no statistical differences for any of the outcomes between BITA and SITA.

Conclusions

The long-term benefits of BITA grafting do not come at the cost of increased adjusted risk of in-hospital death. BITA grafting was associated with an increased risk of DSWI and a longer adjusted LOS. Neither obesity, nor diabetes significantly increased the risk of poor outcomes after BITA.
In-Line NIR Sensing of CO2 Concentration in Polymeric Foaming Extrusion Process
Authors: Nagata Takefumi , Tanigaki Masataka , Ohshima Masahiro
Published: May 2008

An in-line sensor using near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy was developed for monitoring carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration, which is dissolved into molten polymers in extrusion foaming processes. The sensor infers the CO2 concentration from the measured NIR absorption spectra. The spectra were acquired on-line through the probes equipped at the die of the extruder, where foams were created by dissolving CO2 gas into molten polymer at the middle of the extruder and releasing pressure at the exit of the die. The experiments were conducted on polypropylene (PP), low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and polybutylene succinate (PBS), at different flow rates and at different operating temperatures. By employing a novel signal processing scheme, i.e., wavelet transform, to analyze the NIR spectra, the influence of the operating conditions such as operating temperature and flow rate onCO2 measurement could be eliminated. The regression model derived from the wavelet-treated NIR spectra could successfully infer the CO2 concentrations for all three kinds of polymer.
Classification, interdisciplinarity, and the study of science
Authors: Szostak Rick
Published: May 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to respond to the 2005 paper by Hjørland and Nissen Pedersen by suggesting that an exhaustive and universal classification of the phenomena that scholars study, and the methods and theories they apply, is feasible. It seeks to argue that such a classification is critical for interdisciplinary scholarship.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a literature‐based conceptual analysis, taking Hjørland and Nissen Pedersen as its starting point. Hjørland and Nissen Pedersen had identified several difficulties that would be encountered in developing such a classification; the paper suggests how each of these can be overcome. It also urges a deductive approach as complementary to the inductive approach recommended by Hjørland and Nissen Pedersen.

Findings

The paper finds that an exhaustive and universal classification of scholarly documents in terms of (at least) the phenomena that scholars study, and the theories and methods they apply, appears to be both possible and desirable.

Practical implications

The paper suggests how such a project can be begun. In particular it stresses the importance of classifying documents in terms of causal links between phenomena.

Originality/value

The paper links the information science, interdisciplinary, and study of science literatures, and suggests that the types of classification outlined above would be of great value to scientists/scholars, and that they are possible.
INFOLITRANS: a model for the development of information competence for translators
Authors: Pinto Maria , Sales Dora
Published: May 2008

Purpose

Since every community of practice generates, seeks, retrieves and uses information resources and sources related to the cognitive structure being researched or studied and the tasks being performed, the need arises to undertake studies focused on real user communities, which in the case of this paper is the group of translators. This paper aims to investigate this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

In this arena of application, it is important to remember that translators are not only information users, but also information processors and producers. Thus, their documentary competence has to evolve in three dimensions: the informational, the methodological and the strategic. The conceptual model proposed in the paper is based on information literacy (INFOLIT) standards and also the authors' knowledge of translation practice and the competencies it demands, where INFOLIT plays a starring role. This paper is part of a broader research currently in progress, whose main goal is to provide translators and interpreters with a solid instruction in information literacy.

Findings

The paper introduces a model for information literacy specifically intended to develop the information competence of this community of users, it reveals that the model is a gathering of skills, competences, knowledge and values, and it is based on the cooperation between the authors' expert knowledge of information science and professional translation practice.

Originality/value

This paper puts forward the first proposal for information literacy applied to translation training.
The practitioner librarian and the semantic web
Authors: Joint Nicholas
Published: May 2008

Purpose –To describe and evoke the potential impact of semantic web systems at the level of library practice. Design/methodology/approach – A general outline of some of the broad issues associated with the semantic web, together with a brief, simple explanation of basic semantic web procedures with some examples of specific practical outcomes of semantic web development. Findings – That the semantic web is of central relevance to contemporary LIS practitioners, whose involvement in its development is necessary in order to determine what will be the true benefits of this form of information service innovation. Research limitations/implications – Since much of the initial discussion of this topic has been developmental and futuristic, applied practitioner‐oriented research is required to ground these discussions in a firm bedrock of applications. Practical implications – semantic web technologies are of great practical relevance to areas of LIS practice such as digital repository development and open access services. Originality/value – The paper attempts to bridge the gap between the abstractions of theoretical writing in this area and the concerns of the working library professional.
Russian literary resources: a reference companion
Authors: Semertzidou Helen
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline the aims, purposes and contents of the various reference guides to Russian literature.

Design/methodology/approach

It features a highly detailed classified arrangement with sections organized by type of research source (guides, bibliography of bibliography, bibliographies, periodicals, periodical indexes, online journals, electronic texts, literary subject sites).

Findings

The past two decades have witnessed a veritable explosion in the publication of reference works in the field of Russian literary studies. The availability to the student and scholar alike of an array of fundamental reference works demonstrates the mature state of scholarship now being achieved in the field of Russian literature and in the broader area of Slavic and East European Studies.

Practical implications

This annotated reference companion provides guidance in the selection and use of reference works.

Originality/value

The present work is an attempt to provide some bibliographic guidance to the researcher who wants to identify and use research tools for studying Russian literature. It is an attempt to get a measure of bibliographic control over this literary field.
Rescue robot module with sliding membrane locomotion
Authors: Molfino Rezia , Zoppi Matteo , Rimassa Luca
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a cost‐effective design for a new rescue robot locomotion module using the principle of a continuous sliding membrane to achieve propulsion ratio (PR) near 1. Such high PR cannot be reached by other locomotion mechanisms that have been proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper first introduces the PR as a reference parameter to assess locomotion effectiveness of snake‐ and worm‐like robots. The state‐of‐the‐art is reviewed. A direction to step beyond getting PR near 1 is indicated. The way is by realizing a continuous sliding membrane. Two solutions in this direction which have been recently proposed are recalled. It is shown that none of them can be practically implemented to realize functioning systems with today's available technology. A new design with membrane actuation has been identified and it is described in detail. A prototype has been realized and earliest results and evidence of functioning described.

Findings

Critical discussion of the concept of locomotion based on a sliding membrane was conducted. A new design for a robot locomotion module applying this concept was presented. Earliest evidence of functioning and effectiveness of the new system proposed was given.

Research limitations/implications

A new locomotion principle is shown. The state‐of‐the‐art background is discussed. A design to realize the new system in a cost‐effective way is described. The research implications lie in the future development of new mobile robots with higher locomotion capability than today's available systems. Several future research and development directions are shown.

Practical implications

A new generation of more locomotion‐effective snake‐ and worm‐robots, especially for rescue application in rubble, is foreseen. The design proposed takes cost‐effectiveness and practical realizability into account.

Originality/value

The continuous sliding membrane concept had been already proposed but no reasonable realization and actuation solutions had been singled out. The design of the new locomotion system is totally new and contains several breakthrough ideas. A prototype is available proving worthy in concept and functioning. It is cost‐effective and this will allow shorter application to real robots.
Mobile robot localization in quasi‐dynamic environments
Authors: Ramirez‐Serrano Alejandro , Liu Hubert , Pettinaro Giovanni C.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the online localization of mobile (service) robots in real world dynamic environments. Most of the techniques developed so far have been designed for static environments. What is presented here is a novel technique for mobile robot localization in quasi‐dynamic environments.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed approach employs a probability grid map and Baye's filtering techniques. The former is used for representing the possible changes in the surrounding environment which a robot might have to face.

Findings

Simulation and experimental results show that this approach has a high degree of robustness by taking into account both sensor and world uncertainty. The methodology has been tested under different environment scenarios where diverse complex objects having different sizes and shapes were used to represent movable and non‐movable entities.

Practical implications

The results can be applied to diverse robotic systems that need to move in changing indoor environments such as hospitals and places where people might require assistance from autonomous robotic devices. The methodology is fast, efficient and can be used in fast‐moving robots, allowing them to perform complex operations such as path planning and navigation in real time.

Originality/value

What is proposed here is a novel mobile robot localization approach that enables unmanned vehicles to effectively move in real time and know their current location in dynamic environments. Such an approach consists of two steps: a generation of the probability grid map; and a recursive position estimation methodology employing a variant of the Baye's filter.
Understanding old age and victimisation: a critical exploration
Authors: Powell Jason L. , Wahidin Azrini
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of paper is to shine light on the under‐theorised relationship between old age and victmisation. In classical criminological studies, the relationship between “age”, victimisation and crime has been dominated by analysis of younger people's experiences. This paper aims to address this knowledge deficit by exploring older people's experiences by linking it to the social construction of vulnerability.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explores both historical and contemporary narratives relating to the diverse experiences of older people as victims in the UK. In particular, from 1945 to the present, statistical context and theoretical advancement illuminates that older people as a social group have a deep “fear of crime” to their relative victimisation.

Findings

A careful survey of the criminological literature highlights a paucity of research relating to older people's views and experiences of crime and victimisation. The conceptual issue of vulnerability in different contexts is important in understanding ageing and victimisation in UK. The paper's findings illustrate that their experiences have remained marginalised in the debates around social policy, and how the criminal justice system responds to these changes remains yet to be seen.

Research limitations/implications

Any research attempt at theorising “age” should take into consideration not just younger people, but also the diverse experiences of older people. Policy makers may care to ponder that benchmarks be written that takes into full consideration of older people's experiences as vulnerability.

Practical implications

For criminal justice scholars and practitioners, there is a need to listen to the narratives of older people that should help shape and frame debate about their lived experiences. There should be an examination of existing formal and informal practices regarding elders, as the first step in developing an explicit and integrated set of policies and programmes to address the special needs of this group.

Originality/value

This is an original paper in highlighting how important old age is in construction of “victims” in modern society. By theorising age, victimisation and crime it is hoped to dispel and challenge some of the myths surrounding later life, crime and the older victim.
An empirical examination of service recovery design
Authors: Seawright Kristie K. , Bell DeTienne Kristen , Preston Bernhisel M. , Hoopes Larson Charlotte L.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present results from an empirical study of various service recovery designs. When service failures occur, service recovery is the primary way a firm can retain its customers and minimize the costs associated with customer defection and negative word of mouth. While researchers concur on the importance of service recovery in retaining customers, recommendations on implementation differ considerably. Consequently, actual service recovery design and results vary widely among practitioners.

Design/methodology/approach

The method employed uses an experimental design, employing controlled scenario manipulations.

Findings

This paper examines two issues that offer possible explanations for the variation in previous research results: elements of service recovery system design that make a difference and degree of primary failure. An additional issue, research methodology, may also contribute to variations in research results and is likewise addressed.

Practical implications

In failed service encounters, the degree of failure significantly affects customer satisfaction and loyalty. Both psychological and tangible factors are important contributors to service recovery satisfaction.

Originality/value

This study builds upon previous research and fills previous gaps by being the first study to experimentally test the impact that varying service recovery design has on recovery success within environments of varying levels of degree of failure.
Exploring the differences between accountants and marketers in terms of information sharing
Authors: Barker Tansu
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the nature of information sharing, rewards and selected performance measures based on the dyadic relationship between accountants and marketers.

Design/methodology/approach

Mail survey administered to senior executives of larger Canadian firms. MANOVA followed by univariate analyses are used to identify significant dimensions. Variables that are important to distinguish between the two groups are identified using logistic regression.

Findings

Accountants are more satisfied with the quality of shared information and rate its impact on performance higher than marketers. Marketers view accountants as a more important source of information.

Research limitations/implications

Longitudinal studies, in‐depth surveys within a single firm and employing respondents at different hierarchical levels would provide important insights and reduce common‐method bias.

Practical implications

Accountants should recognize marketing as an important source of information since resource complementarity is crucial to collaborative success. Using market‐based reward systems and establishing quality as an important goal would have a bigger impact on marketers in enhancing information sharing between the two functions.

Originality/value

Contributes to filling the gap regarding the nature of information sharing between marketing and accounting as well as its relationship to market‐based rewards and selected performance measures.
An introduction to the work and well‐being of older workers
Authors: Peeters Maria C.W. , van Emmerik Hetty
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The article's aim is to introduce the papers contained in this special issue of the Journal of Managerial Psychology.

Design/methodology/approach

Specifically the present article starts by discussing the meaning of the factor age and by considering who is actually termed an older worker. Next, the consequences of cognitive, physical and mental changes during the aging process for work and organizations are being discussed. Before presenting a general introduction to the research contributions that are included in this special issue, a plea is made for a more positive approach to older employees. The article presents a literature review, a discussion of the main topics and suggestions for future pathways for research and HRM.

Findings

It is indisputable that some cognitive, physical and mental changes take place while people grow older. However, what is less certain is how these changes impede on employees' well‐being. Recently, scholars seem to agree that the picture is not as negative as one used to think.

Research limitations/implications

The implications are: use different conceptualizations of age; focus on the process of aging instead of on age as a factor; shift the focus from managing threats to creating opportunities.

Practical implications

It is in both employers' and employees' interest to make the best use of employees of all ages and to manage employees in accordance with individual attributes and capacities rather than by making assumptions based on age.

Originality/value

The article frames the issues and sets the stage for a more positive approach towards older workers.
Knowing: how we know is as important as what we know
Authors: Mitroff Ian I.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that more than ever than ever, businesses need to understand the nature of different concepts of knowledge and methods for producing them.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing the philosophy of inquiry, the extreme importance and relevance of applied epistemology (theories of knowledge/inquiry) for business is demonstrated. It introduces and briefly explains five archetypal inquiry systems from Western philosophy. Each system defines “truth” and “knowledge” in completely different ways.

Findings

The paper shows the strengths and the limitations of each system for “knowledge”, and especially for doing business in the systems age.

Originality/value

The philosophy of inquiry has been greatly underutilized, even ignored, in schools of business. This paper attempts to correct this.
Living in the present
Authors: Marren Patrick
Published: May 2008

Purpose

An article “from the future” illustrating the trend away from serious strategy and planning in American companies.

Design/methodology/approach

Making use of previous learning and work with numerous clients to illuminate certain aspects of the context within which business strategy is formulated.

Findings

Fewer and fewer corporations are engaging in serious long‐range planning efforts. Wall Street's short‐term focus and incursion upon CEO prerogatives may be one reason.

Originality/value

Expresses ideas in a way that the author hopes they have not been expressed before.
Synchronization: moving beyond re‐engineering
Authors: Kambil Ajit
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The re‐engineering movement focused on obliterating functional silos and creating processes. As processes become more prevalent, today's challenge is to overcome process silos and synchronize them within and across companies. This paper lays out the key drivers of synchronization challenges and many responses to address them.

Design/methodology/approach

The article defines synchronization and uses examples to articulate its impact on businesses. It then identifies six key drivers of synchronization failure: uncertainty, ambiguity, complexity, volatility, urgency, and differing agency incentives across processes. The article then outlines strategies for responding to these shortcomings and examples of organizations that derive competitive advantages from synchronization.

Findings

The article presents five steps to improving synchronization within an organization: identify key synchronization opportunities; identify responses to the opportunities; stimulate, evaluate and examine interdependencies; execute select initiatives; and evaluate and iterate.

Originality/value

Synchronization is difficult, and firms who successfully synchronize key processes are likely to have advantages that are difficult to replicate. As we enter an economic slowdown in the United States, managers may discover that improving synchronization will be a better strategic move than simply cutting costs.