bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Users’ subjective evaluation of electronic vision enhancement systems
Authors: Culham Louise E. , Chabra Anthony , Rubin Gary S.
Published: February 2009

The aims of this study were (1) to elicit the users’ responses to four electronic head‐mounted devices (Jordy, Flipperport, Maxport and NuVision) and (2) to correlate users’ opinion with performance. Ten patients with early onset macular disease (EOMD) and 10 with age‐related macular disease (AMD) used these electronic vision enhancement systems (EVESs) for a variety of visual tasks. A questionnaire designed in‐house and a modified VF‐14 were used to evaluate the responses. Following initial experience of the devices in the laboratory, every patient took home two of the four devices for 1 week each. Responses were re‐evaluated after this period of home loan. No single EVES stood out as the strong preference for all aspects evaluated. In the laboratory‐based appraisal, Flipperport typically received the best overall ratings and highest score for image quality and ability to magnify, but after home loan there was no significant difference between devices. Comfort of device, although important, was not predictive of rating once magnification had been taken into account. For actual performance, a threshold effect was seen whereby ratings increased as reading speed improved up to 60 words per minute. Newly diagnosed patients responded most positively to EVESs, but otherwise users’ opinion could not be predicted by age, gender, diagnosis or previous CCTV experience. User feedback is essential in our quest to understand the benefits and shortcoming of EVESs. Such information should help guide both prescribing and future development of low vision devices.
Market and Political/Regulatory Perspectives on the Recent Accounting Scandals
Authors: BALL RAY
Published: February 2009

Not surprisingly, the recent accounting scandals look different when viewed from the perspectives of the political/regulatory process and of the market for corporate governance and financial reporting. We do not have the opportunity to observe a world in which either market or political/regulatory processes operate independently, and the events are recent and not well researched, so untangling their separate effects is somewhat conjectural. This paper offers conjectures on issues such as: What caused the scandalous behavior? Why was there such a rash of accounting scandals at one time? Who killed Arthur Andersen—the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the market? Did fraudulent accounting kill Enron, or just keep it alive for too long? What is the social cost of financial reporting fraud? Does the United States in fact operate a “principles‐based” or a “rules‐based” accounting system? Was there market failure? Or was there regulatory failure? Or both? Was the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act a political and regulatory overreaction? Does the United States follow an ineffective regulatory model?
The Future of Securities Regulation
Authors: ZINGALES LUIGI
Published: February 2009

The U.S. system of securities law was designed more than 70 years ago to regain investors' trust after a major financial crisis. Today we face a similar problem. But while in the 1930s the prevailing perception was that investors had been defrauded by offerings of dubious quality securities, in the new millennium, investors' perception is that they have been defrauded by managers who are not accountable to anyone. For this reason, I propose a series of reforms that center around corporate governance, while shifting the focus from the protection of unsophisticated investors in the purchasing of new securities issues to the investment in mutual funds, pension funds, and other forms of asset management.
The use of vasopressin for treating vasodilatory shock and cardiopulmonary arrest
Authors: Scroggin Richard D. , Quandt Jane
Published: February 2009

Objective
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To discuss 3 potential mechanisms for loss of peripheral vasomotor tone during vasodilatory shock; review vasopressin physiology; review the available animal experimental and human clinical studies of vasopressin in vasodilatory shock and cardiopulmonary arrest; and make recommendations based on review of the data for the use of vasopressin in vasodilatory shock and cardiopulmonary arrest.

Data Sources
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Human clinical studies, veterinary experimental studies, forum proceedings, book chapters, and American Heart Association guidelines.

Human and Veterinary Data Synthesis
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Septic shock is the most common form of vasodilatory shock. The exogenous administration of vasopressin in animal models of fluid‐resuscitated septic and hemorrhagic shock significantly increases mean arterial pressure and improves survival. The effect of vasopressin on return to spontaneous circulation, initial cardiac rhythm, and survival compared with epinephrine is mixed. Improved survival in human patients with ventricular fibrillation, pulseless ventricular tachycardia, and nonspecific cardiopulmonary arrest has been observed in 4 small studies of vasopressin versus epinephrine. Three large studies, though, did not find a significant difference between vasopressin and epinephrine in patients with cardiopulmonary arrest regardless of initial cardiac rhythm. No veterinary clinical trials have been performed using vasopressin in cardiopulmonary arrest.

Conclusion
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Vasopressin (0.01–0.04 U/min, IV) should be considered in small animal veterinary patients with vasodilatory shock that is unresponsive to fluid resuscitation and catecholamine (dobutamine, dopamine, and norepinephrine) administration. Vasopressin (0.2–0.8 U/kg, IV once) administration during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in small animal veterinary patients with pulseless electrical activity or ventricular asystole may be beneficial for myocardial and cerebral blood flow.
The effect of angiotensin‐blocking agents on liver fibrosis in patients with hepatitis C
Authors: Corey Kathleen E. , Shah Nirali , Misdraji Joseph , Abu Dayyeh Barham K. , Zheng Hui , Bhan Atul K. , Chung Raymond T.
Published: February 2009

Background: Multiple studies implicate the renin–angiotensin system in hepatic fibrogenesis. Few studies have examined the effects of angiotensin blockade on liver fibrosis via human histology.

Aims: We studied the histological effect of angiotensin II blocking agents in chronic hepatitis C patients.

Methods: This was a retrospective study of 284 chronic hepatitis C patients from 2001 to 2006 who underwent a liver biopsy. Group I was comprised of 143 hypertensive patients who received angiotensin‐blocking agents. Group II was comprised of 91 hypertensive subjects who received hypertensive agents other than angiotensin blockers. Group III was comprised of 50 non‐hypertensive subjects.

Results: The groups were similar in age, sex, hepatitis C genotype, viral load and disease duration. They varied significantly in total diabetic patients (Group I, 43; Group II, 10; Group III, 1; P=0.0001), consistent with recommended use of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors in hypertensive diabetics. Non‐hypertensive patients had significantly less fibrosis than hypertensive patients, regardless of antihypertensive medications (Group I, 3.20; Group II, 3.73; Group III, 2.5; P=0.0002). Group I had significantly less fibrosis than Group II (P=0.02). This finding persisted in a non‐diabetic subgroup of Groups I and II (Group I, 3.07; Group II, 3.69; P=0.0129).

Conclusion: Patients with hepatitis C and hypertension have increased fibrosis compared with non‐hypertensive patients. Hypertensive patients receiving angiotensin‐blocking agents had less fibrosis than hypertensive patients who did not receive angiotensin‐blocking agents. This suggests an association with hypertension, possibly via the renin–angiotensin system in the fibrosis development and suggests a beneficial role of angiotensin II blockade in hepatitis C virus‐related fibrosis.
Heparin‐like effect contributes to the coagulopathy in patients with acute liver failure undergoing liver transplantation
Authors: Senzolo Marco , Agarwal Seema , Zappoli Paola , Vibhakorn Sushang , Mallett Susan , Burroughs Andrew K.
Published: February 2009

Introduction: Liver transplantation (LT) in cirrhotics is characterized by severe coagulopathy, associated with a well documented heparin‐like effect (HLE) seen by thromboelastography (TEG™) after reperfusion. The amount of HLE present in patients with acute liver failure (ALF) and its role in their bleeding tendency before LT has not been investigated.

Aim: To investigate the presence and extent of HLE in patients with ALF undergoing LT and to compare the extent of HLE in this group with a group of cirrhotics undergoing LT.

Material and Methods: Ten consecutive ALF and 10 cirrhotic patients undergoing LT were included. TEG™ (with and without heparinase I), surrogate total thrombin generation (TTG) derived by TEG™ and haemodynamic variables were recorded for every stage of the LT. HLE was defined as a correction of r+k times on TEG™ of more than 50% by the addition of heparinase I.

Results: Before incision, patients with ALF showed a significantly greater HLE compared with patients with cirrhosis (r+k time: 66 min corrected to 29 vs 45 min corrected to 32 min, P=0.001). After reperfusion, all the patients showed extensive HLE, without any difference between the two groups. Despite the greater HLE, patients with ALF showed similar TTG compared with the cirrhotic group. By the end of the operation, the extent of the HLE was greatly reduced in both the groups.

Conclusions: Before transplantation, patients with ALF have a greater HLE than patients with liver cirrhosis. However, this did not affect the thrombin generation calculated by TEG™ and resolved after transplantation.
Range‐Wide Selection of Catchments for Pacific Salmon Conservation
Authors: PINSKY MALIN L. , SPRINGMEYER DANE B. , GOSLIN MATTHEW N. , AUGEROT XANTHIPPE
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  Freshwater ecosystems are declining in quality globally, but a lack of data inhibits identification of areas valuable for conservation across national borders. We developed a biological measure of conservation value for six species of Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) in catchments of the northern Pacific across Canada, China, Japan, Russia, and the United States. We based the measure on abundance and life‐history richness and a model‐based method that filled data gaps. Catchments with high conservation value ranged from California to northern Russia and included catchments in regions that are strongly affected by human development (e.g., Puget Sound). Catchments with high conservation value were less affected by agriculture and dams than other catchments, although only 1% were within biodiversity reserves. Our set of high‐value areas was largely insensitive to simulated error, although classification remained uncertain for 3% of catchments. Although salmon face many threats, we propose they will be most likely to exhibit resilience into the future if a complementary mosaic of conservation strategies can be proactively adopted in catchments with healthy salmon populations. Our analysis provides an initial map of where these catchments are likely to be located.
Experimental modelling of corona textures
Authors: LARIKOVA T. L. , ZARAISKY G. P.
Published: February 2009

Formation of corona textures along olivine–plagioclase and orthopyroxene–plagioclase interfaces has been experimentally reproduced at 670 and 700 °C and 5 kbar with either a pure H2O fluid phase or 0.1 and 37 m NaCl–H2O solution fluid. In these experiments, we investigate the interaction of primary olivine and/or orthopyroxene and plagioclase in powders and polished crystals, and in small samples of a natural gabbro. The experiments result in the formation of corona textures with several layers of different assemblages (according to the experimental conditions) consisting of garnet (grossular), clinopyroxene, orthopyroxene, amphibole, chlorite and phlogopite. The experiments show major differences in the number of layers, the mineral assemblages and mineral composition, and in the trends of composition of plagioclase in coronas around olivine and orthopyroxene. The fluid phase composition influences the corona assemblages and the composition of the minerals in the experimental coronas; for example, garnet appears in the coronas in the second experiment where the NaCl–H2O ratio is low. Experimental modelling of corona textures confirms a model of simultaneous growth of layers by the mechanism of diffusion metasomatism with participation of a fluid phase through which mass is transferred. Zoning in the experimental coronas shows opposing diffusion of Al and Ca from plagioclase and Mg and Fe from olivine/orthopyroxene; difference in the mobility of the components is inferred from observations in the coronas. The experimental corona textures are compared with natural coronas from the Belomorian belt (Baltic shield), developed at 670–690 °C and 7–8 kbar, and the Marun‐Keu complex (Polar Urals), developed at 670–700 °C and 14–16 kbar, where the corona textures correspond to a transitional stage of the gabbro‐to‐eclogite transformation.
LAURENCIA MARILZAESP. NOV. (CERAMIALES, RHODOPHYTA) FROM THE CANARY ISLANDS, SPAIN, BASED ON MORPHOLOGICAL AND MOLECULAR EVIDENCE1
Authors: Gil‐Rodríguez M a Candelaria , Sentíes Abel , Díaz‐Larrea Jhoana , Cassano Valéria , Fujii Mutue Toyota
Published: February 2009

Laurencia marilzaeGil‐Rodríguez, Sentíes et M.T. Fujii sp. nov. is described based on specimens that have been collected from the Canary Islands. This new species is characterized by distinctive yellow–orange as its natural habitat color, a terete thallus, four pericentral cells per vegetative axial segment, presence of secondary pit‐connections between adjacent cortical cells, markedly projecting cortical cells, and also by the presence ofcorps en cerise(one per cell) present in all cells of the thallus (cortical, medullary, including pericentral and axial cells, and trichoblasts). It also has a procarp‐bearing segment with five pericentral cells and tetrasporangia that are produced from the third and fourth pericentral cells, which are arranged in a parallel manner in relation to fertile branchlets. The phylogenetic position of this taxon was inferred based on chloroplast‐encodedrbcL gene sequence analyses. Within theLaurenciaassemblage,L. marilzaeformed a distinctive lineage sister to all otherLaurenciaspecies analyzed. Previously, a large number of unique diterpenes dactylomelane derivatives were isolated and identified from this taxon.L. marilzaeis morphologically, genetically, and chemically distinct from all other related species of theLaurenciacomplex described.
STRAIN VARIATION IN KARLODINIUM VENEFICUM (DINOPHYCEAE): TOXIN PROFILES, PIGMENTS, AND GROWTH CHARACTERISTICS1
Authors: Bachvaroff Tsvetan R. , Adolf Jason E. , Place Allen R.
Published: February 2009

Karlodinium veneficum (D. Ballant.) J. Larsen strains, 16 from the U.S. Atlantic eastern seaboard and two from New Zealand (CAWD66 and CAWD83), were used to characterize toxin profiles during batch culture. All 18 strains were determined as the same species based on ITS sequence analyses, a positive signal in a chloroplast real‐time PCR assay and pigment composition. Five karlotoxin 1 (KmTx 1) containing strains were analyzed from the Chesapeake Bay, and 10 karlotoxin 2 (KmTx 2) strains were analyzed from Florida to North Carolina. One strain (MD5) from the Chesapeake Bay produced no detectable toxin. The two cultures from New Zealand contained both novel karlotoxins with lower masses and earlier elution times. Toxin type did not change during batch culture, although the KmTx phenotype did change in some strains under extensive (months) phototrophic growth in replete media. KmTx cell quota did not change during batch culture for most strains. The mass spectrum for every KmTx examined showed a pattern of multiple coeluting congeners within each HPLC peak, with masses typically differing by 16 amu. KmTx congeners tested showed nearly a 500‐fold range in specific hemolytic activity, with KmTx 1 (typically occurring at lower cellular levels) most hemolytic and CAWD66 toxin least hemolytic, while KmTx 2 and the CAWD83 toxin had similar intermediate specific activity. Despite morphological, genetic, and photopigment indicators consistent with species homogeneity among the 18 strains of K. veneficum, the high degree of toxin variability suggests different functional roles among strains that likely coexist in situ.
SURVEY FOR KARLOTOXIN PRODUCTION IN 15 SPECIES OF GYMNODINIOID DINOFLAGELLATES (KARENIACEAE, DINOPHYTA)1
Authors: Mooney Ben D. , De Salas Miguel , Hallegraeff Gustaaf M. , Place Allen R.
Published: February 2009

Toxin analysis of 15 species of Kareniaceae revealed the presence of karlotoxin, KmTx 2, in only a single species (Karlodinium veneficum) but with variable activity in strains from the Swan (KmSwanTx 2‐1, 2.1 pg · cell−1; and KmSwanTx 2‐2, 0.53 pg · cell−1), Huon (KmHuonTx 2, 0.86 pg · cell−1), and Derwent rivers (<0.001 pg · cell−1) in Australia. A newly isolated Southern Ocean species, Karlodinium conicum, contained a novel poorly hemolytic karlotoxin analogue (KmconicumTx, 2.8 pg · cell−1). The hemolytic potency (HD50%) of the Australian karlotoxins were as follows: KmSwanTx 2‐1 (65.9 ± 4.8 ng) and KmSwanTx 2‐2 (63.4 ± 3.7 ng), KmHuonTx 2 (343 ± 4.9 ng), and KmconicumTx (>4,000 ng). Species from the closely related genera Takayama (T. helix, T. tasmanica, T. tuberculata), Karenia (K. asterichroma, K. brevis, K. mikimotoi, K. papilionacea, K. umbella), and Karlodinium (Ka. australe, Ka. antarcticum, Ka. ballantinum, Ka. corrugatum, Ka. decipiens) were all consistently negative for karlotoxin production. Brevetoxin (PbTx) was only detected in K. brevis, and hemolytic activity was only observed in Ka. veneficum strains.
Causes of Therapeutic Errors in Older Adults: Evaluation of National Poison Center Data
Authors: Hayes Bryan D. , Klein‐Schwartz Wendy , Gonzales Lawrence F.
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the reasons for unintentional therapeutic errors in older adults, the types of medications most frequently involved, and the medical outcomes related to these adverse drug events.

DESIGN: Retrospective analysis of American Association of Poison Control Center's National Poison Data System (NPDS).

SETTING: NPDS collects data from all U.S. poison centers. Data from 2002 to 2006 were examined.

PARTICIPANTS: Cases involving adults aged 65 and older with a potentially toxic exposure due to unintentional therapeutic errors.

MEASUREMENTS: Hazard factor analysis was conducted to identify medications that pose risk in this population.

RESULTS: There were 140,786 older adults with reported therapeutic errors, of which 49,320 cases were followed to a known medical outcome. A major effect or death occurred in 596 cases (1.2% of cases with known medical outcome). The most common reasons for therapeutic errors were inadvertently took or given medication twice, wrong medication taken or given, and other incorrect dose. The reasons associated with the highest rate of major effect or death were drug interaction, health professional or iatrogenic error, and more than one product containing same ingredient. Certain medication classes such as analgesics, anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, asthma therapies, psychotherapeutics, and some cardiovascular agents were associated with high hazard factors.

CONCLUSION: Poison center data can be used to evaluate therapeutic errors in older adults to identify reasons associated with frequently reported errors, as well as reasons and medications involved with errors that result in serious outcomes. Knowing the reasons why they occur can aid in developing strategies for decreasing unintentional errors in older adults.
A Cognitive Training Program Based on Principles of Brain Plasticity: Results from the Improvement in Memory with Plasticity‐based Adaptive Cognitive Training (IMPACT) Study
Authors: Smith Glenn E. , Housen Patricia , Yaffe Kristine , Ruff Ronald , Kennison Robert F. , Mahncke Henry W. , Zelinski Elizabeth M.
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the efficacy of a novel brain plasticity–based computerized cognitive training program in older adults and to evaluate the effect on untrained measures of memory and attention and participant‐reported outcomes.

DESIGN: Multisite randomized controlled double‐blind trial with two treatment groups.

SETTING: Communities in northern and southern California and Minnesota.

PARTICIPANTS: Community‐dwelling adults aged 65 and older (N=487) without a diagnosis of clinically significant cognitive impairment.

INTERVENTION: Participants were randomized to receive a broadly‐available brain plasticity–based computerized cognitive training program (intervention) or a novelty‐ and intensity‐matched general cognitive stimulation program modeling treatment as usual (active control). Duration of training was 1 hour per day, 5 days per week, for 8 weeks, for a total of 40 hours.

MEASUREMENTS: The primary outcome was a composite score calculated from six subtests of the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status that use the auditory modality (RBANS Auditory Memory/Attention). Secondary measures were derived from performance on the experimental program, standardized neuropsychological assessments of memory and attention, and participant‐reported outcomes.

RESULTS: RBANS Auditory Memory/Attention improvement was significantly greater (P=.02) in the experimental group (3.9 points, 95% confidence interval (CI)=2.7–5.1) than in the control group (1.8 points, 95% CI=0.6–3.0). Multiple secondary measures of memory and attention showed significantly greater improvements in the experimental group (word list total score, word list delayed recall, digits backwards, letter–number sequencing; P<.05), as did the participant‐reported outcome measure (P=.001). No advantage for the experimental group was seen in narrative memory.

CONCLUSION: The experimental program improved generalized measures of memory and attention more than an active control program.
Missing Data: A Special Challenge in Aging Research
Authors: Hardy Susan E. , Allore Heather , Studenski Stephanie A.
Published: February 2009

Scientific evidence should guide clinical care, but special methodological challenges influence interpretation of the medical literature pertaining to older adults. Missing data, ranging from lack of individual items in questionnaires to complete loss to follow‐up, affect the quality of the evidence and are more likely to occur in studies of older adults because older adults have more health and functional problems that interfere with all aspects of data collection than do younger people. The purpose of this article is to promote knowledge about the risks and consequences of missing data in clinical aging research and to provide an organized approach to prevention and management. Although it is almost never possible to achieve complete data capture, efforts to prevent missing data are more effective than analytical “cure.” Strategies to prevent missing data include selecting a primary outcome that is easy to determine and devising valid alternate definitions, adapting data collection to the special needs of the target population, pilot testing data collection plans, and monitoring missing data rates during the study and adapting data collection procedures as needed. Key steps in the analysis of missing data include assessing the extent and types of missing data before analysis, exploring potential mechanisms that contributed to the missing data, and using multiple analytical approaches to assess the effect of missing data on the results. Manuscripts should disclose rates of missing data and losses to follow‐up, compare dropouts with participants who completed the study, describe how missing data were managed in the analysis phase, and discuss the potential effect of missing data on the conclusions of the study.
Rapid Screening of Cognitive Change in Patients with Questionable Dementia Using the Memory Impairment Screen and the Isaacs Set Test
Authors: Chopard Gilles , Vanholsbeeck Geraldine , Tio Gregory , Pitard Alexandre , Binetruy Mickael , Rumbach Lucien , Galmiche Jean
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficacy of combining the Memory Impairment Screen (MIS) and the Isaacs Set Test (IST) in predicting short‐term development of dementia in a group of people with questionable dementia (QD) at baseline.

DESIGN: Performances of the weighted sum of MIS and IST and the ≪or≫ rule were compared with each other and with the Mini‐Mental State Examination.

SETTING: Database of the Regional Network for Diagnostic Aid and Management of Patients with Cognitive Impairment in the Franche‐Comté geographical area in France.

PARTICIPANTS: A cohort of 106 patients aged 65 and older with QD were followed up for a mean of 14.9 months (range 6–24 months).

MEASUREMENTS: Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated for the combination of these two tests.

RESULTS: The weighted sum had a sensitivity of 0.74 and a specificity of 0.84. The ≪or≫ rule (MIS<6 or IST<25) had a sensitivity of 0.74 and a specificity of 0.81. When range values were applied, low scores on the MIS and the IST (MIS<6 and IST<25) led to a high probability of dementia, whereas high scores (MIS>7 and IST>29) suggested a high probability of remaining dementia‐free in the study follow‐up.

CONCLUSION: This quickly performed tool (5 minutes) is simple to use and score. When including cutscores (MIS<6 or IST<25) or range values, this test could be considered a useful screening procedure for all types of dementias.
Reliability of a Continuous Pain Score Meter: Real Time Pain Measurement
Authors: Boormans Elisabeth M. , Van Kesteren Paul J. , Perez Roberto S. , Brölmann Hans A. , Zuurmond Wouter W.
Published: February 2009

We present a newly developed continuous pain score meter (CPSM). The CPSM is based on the principles of the visual analog score (VAS), and electronically measures pain score in a continuous, instead of a single, manner. In this study, we determine the test–retest reliability of this meter. Thirty‐two healthy volunteers received a reproducible pain stimulus on the right thumbnail and forearm. After a 1‐minute interval the procedure was repeated. During the stimulus, pain was continuously measured with the CPSM, providing values of peak continuous pain score (CPS) and area under the CPS curve (AUC CPS). The intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC) and the 95% limits of agreement were used to assess the agreement between measurements. ICC of peak CPS (0.89 and 0.83) and AUC CPS (0.79 and 0.86) for nail and arm showed a good reproducibility. This study has successfully established the test–retest reliability of the CPSM. The real‐time continuous pain measurement may provide more detailed information on a subjects' pain perception compared to a single VAS, in particular during an interval of pain stimuli.
Efficacy of Risk‐Based, Culturally Sensitive Ogaa (Walleye) Consumption Advice for Anishinaabe Tribal Members in the Great Lakes Region
Authors: DeWeese Adam D. , Kmiecik Neil E. , Chiriboga Esteban D. , Foran Jeffery A.
Published: February 2009

The Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission (GLIFWC) has produced Ogaa (walleye—Sander vitreus) consumption advisories since 1996 for Anishinaabe from GLIFWC member tribes in the 1837 and 1842 ceded territories of Wisconsin. GLIFWC's advisory maps were revised in 2005 to address cultural sensitivities (to protect tribal lifeways), to utilize recent mercury exposure information, and to incorporate changes in advisory levels for methyl mercury. Lake‐specific, risk‐based, culturally sensitive consumption advice was provided on color‐coded maps for two groups: children under age 15 years and females of childbearing age, and males 15 years and older and females beyond childbearing age. The maps were distributed to, and a behavioral intervention program developed for, the six GLIFWC member tribes in Wisconsin as well as member tribes in Minnesota and the 1842 ceded territory of Michigan. Tribal fish harvesters, tribal health care providers, women of childbearing age or with young children, tribal leaders, elders, and children were targeted specifically for the behavioral intervention. The efficacy of the behavioral intervention was assessed using surveys of 275 tribal fish harvesters from Wisconsin, 139 tribal harvesters from Michigan and Minnesota, and 156 Wisconsin women of childbearing age. Significant increases in the percentage of survey participants who indicated awareness of advisory maps occurred among Wisconsin harvesters (increase from 60% to 77%), Michigan and Minnesota harvesters (29% to 51%), and women of childbearing age in Wisconsin (40% to 87%). A significant increase in preference for smaller Ogaa occurred among tribal harvesters in Wisconsin (41% to 72%) and tribal harvesters in Michigan and Minnesota (49% to 71%), although not among women of childbearing age. The GLIFWC map‐based advisory program did not adversely affect tribal harvest of Ogaa, which increased from 63,000 to 88,000 fish in the three states after the intervention.
Quantitative Risk Assessment of Listeria monocytogenes in French Cold‐Smoked Salmon: II. Risk Characterization
Authors: Pouillot Régis , Goulet Véronique , Delignette‐Muller Marie Laure , Mahé Aurélie , Cornu Marie
Published: February 2009

A model for the assessment of exposure to Listeria monocytogenes from cold‐smoked salmon consumption in France was presented in the first of this pair of articles (Pouillot et al., 2007, Risk Analysis, 27:683–700). In the present study, the exposure model output was combined with an internationally accepted hazard characterization model, adapted to the French situation, to assess the risk of invasive listeriosis from cold‐smoked salmon consumption in France in a second‐order Monte Carlo simulation framework. The annual number of cases of invasive listeriosis due to cold‐smoked salmon consumption in France is estimated to be 307, with a very large credible interval ([10; 12,453]), reflecting data uncertainty. This uncertainty is mainly associated with the dose‐response model. Despite the significant uncertainty associated with the predictions, this model provides a scientific base for risk managers and food business operators to manage the risk linked to cold‐smoked salmon contaminated with L. monocytogenes. Under the modeling assumptions, risk would be efficiently reduced through a decrease in the prevalence of L. monocytogenes or better control of the last steps of the cold chain (shorter and/or colder storage during the consumer step), whereas reduction of the initial contamination levels of the contaminated products and improvement in the first steps of the cold chain do not seem to be promising strategies. An attempt to apply the recent risk‐based concept of FSO (food safety objective) on this example underlines the ambiguity in practical implementation of the risk management metrics and the need for further elaboration on these concepts.
Mapping Invasive Species Risks with Stochastic Models: A Cross‐Border United States‐Canada Application for Sirex noctilio Fabricius
Authors: Yemshanov Denys , Koch Frank H. , McKenney Daniel W. , Downing Marla C. , Sapio Frank
Published: February 2009

Nonindigenous species have caused significant impacts to North American forests despite past and present international phytosanitary efforts. Though broadly acknowledged, the risks of pest invasions are difficult to quantify as they involve interactions between many factors that operate across a range of spatial and temporal scales: the transmission of invading organisms via various pathways, their spread and establishment in new environments. Our study presents a stochastic simulation approach to quantify these risks and associated uncertainties through time in a unified fashion. We outline this approach with an example of a forest pest recently detected in North America, Sirex noctilio Fabricius. We simulate new potential entries of S. noctilio as a stochastic process, based on recent volumes of marine shipments of commodities from countries where S. noctilio is established, as well as the broad dynamics of foreign marine imports. The results are then linked with a spatial model that simulates the spread of S. noctilio within the geographical distribution of its hosts (pines) while incorporating existing knowledge about its behavior in North American landscapes. Through replications, this approach yields a spatial representation of S. noctilio risks and uncertainties in a single integrated product. The approach should also be appealing to decisionmakers, since it accounts for projected flows of commodities that may serve as conduits for pest entry. Our 30‐year forecasts indicate high establishment probability in Ontario, Quebec, and the northeastern United States, but further southward expansion of S. noctilio is uncertain, ultimately depending on the impact of recent international treatment standards for wood packing materials.
Languaging: University Students Learn the Grammatical Concept of Voice in French
Authors: SWAIN MERRILL , LAPKIN SHARON , KNOUZI IBTISSEM , SUZUKI WATARU , BROOKS LINDSAY
Published: February 2009

In this article we explore the process and product of languaging as it concerns the learning of the grammatical concept of voice (active, passive, and middle) in French. We examine and analyze the amount and type of languaging produced by a small sample of university students as they struggle to understand the concept of voice. Students who are high languagers learn about the grammatical concept of voice in French with greater depth of understanding than low languagers. We demonstrate that there is a relationship between the quality and quantity of languaging and performance as measured by immediate and delayed posttest stages. These findings suggest that languaging is a key component in the internalization process of second language grammatical concepts. Implications of our research for pedagogy are briefly considered.
Students' and Teachers' Perceptions of Effective Foreign Language Teaching: A Comparison of Ideals
Authors: BROWN ALAN V.
Published: February 2009

Foreign language (FL) teachers and students may have very similar or disparate notions of effective teaching, and the intersection of the two sets of beliefs has ramifications for language learning and the effectiveness of instruction. Horwitz (1990), Kern (1995), and Schulz (1996) have argued that mismatches between FL students' and teachers' expectations can negatively affect the students' satisfaction with the language class and can potentially lead to the discontinuation of study. The principal objectives of this study were to identify and compare, overall and by teacher, teachers' and students' ideals of effective teacher behaviors. Of 83 intact 1st‐ and 2nd‐year classes across 9 languages at the University of Arizona, 49 FL teachers and their students responded to a 24‐item Likert‐scale questionnaire covering several areas of FL pedagogy. The students seemed to favor a grammar‐based approach, whereas their teachers preferred a more communicative classroom, as evidenced by significant differences in such areas as target language use, error correction, and group work. The significant discrepancies between teacher and student beliefs in several relevant areas point to the need for FL teachers to seek out their students' perspectives actively and to engage them in brief classroom discussions about the rationale behind certain instructional strategies.
Mandatory Diagnostic Angiography for Carotid Artery Stenosis Prior to Carotid Artery Intervention
Authors: MAKARYUS AMGAD N. , PHILLIPS LAWRENCE M. , WRIGHT PAUL , FREEMAN JASON , GREEN STEPHEN J. , ONG LAWRENCE , MARCHANT DONNA
Published: February 2009

Introduction: Revascularization is an important strategy for reducing stroke risk in patients with severe carotid atherosclerosis. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and/or carotid ultrasound have traditionally been used as the only diagnostic modalities prior to revascularization. Patients undergoing CEA frequently have no further assessments of carotid anatomy prior to surgery. Evaluation with carotid ultrasound and MRA can often overestimate the degree of stenosis. We sought to determine if noninvasive imaging was sufficient for determining whether a patient should be referred for carotid intervention.

Methods: We performed an analysis of 101 patients referred for carotid artery stenting (CAS). All patients had previously been evaluated with carotid ultrasound and 94% had undergone MRA as well. We sought to determine if noninvasive diagnostic imaging for carotid stenosis was sufficient to determine the necessity for endovascular intervention.

Results: Of the 101 patients referred for carotid intervention, 36 (36%) were shown to have <70% stenoses and did not require intervention. Of those who had significant disease, 49 (75%) underwent successful CAS, 15 (23%) underwent CEA, and 1 patient was treated medically for a total occlusion. Three of the 36 patients not requiring carotid intervention were found to have subclavian stenosis. Two (4%) of the patients undergoing CAS and 4 (27%) of the patients undergoing CEA had minor complications. No patients suffered a major stroke, MI, or death at follow‐up.

Conclusion: This analysis demonstrates that 36% of patients referred for endovascular intervention based on noninvasive imaging did not meet criteria by angiography. This emphasizes the need for carotid angiography prior to carotid intervention.
Impact of Bivalirudin Use on Outcomes in Nonagenarians Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: LEMESLE GILLES , BONELLO LAURENT , DE LABRIOLLE AXEL , STEINBERG DANIEL H. , ROY PROBAL , SLOTTOW TINA L. PINTO , TORGUSON REBECCA , KANESHIGE KIMBERLY , XUE ZHENYI , SUDDATH WILLIAM O. , SATLER LOWELL F. , KENT KENNETH M. , LINDSAY JOSEPH , PICHARD AUGUSTO D. , WAKSMAN RON
Published: February 2009

Background: With an aging population, nonagenarians constitute an increasing percentage of patients with coronary artery disease. The aim of this study was to determine the predictors and outcome of nonagenarians undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for symptomatic coronary artery disease.

Methods: From 2002 to 2007, a cohort of 171 consecutive nonagenarians underwent PCI and stent implantation in our center. Patients given bivalirudin (n = 79) during the procedure were compared to those given heparin (n = 92). In‐hospital and 6‐month rates of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) including death, myocardial infarction (MI), and target lesion revascularization were indexed. In‐hospital bleedings were also indexed.

Results: The mean age was 92.5 ± 2.5 years. The population was 52% female. Nearly 30% of patients had diabetes mellitus and >25% had renal failure. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 45%± 14%. The clinical presentation was an acute MI in 59% of the cases. The in‐hospital rates of death and bleedings were 4.1% and 17.5%, respectively. Clinical presentations as MI or cardiogenic shock were associated with high rates of in‐hospital death: 19.3% and 30%, respectively. Bivalirudin use was associated with a 41.5% decrease in in‐hospital bleedings. The 6‐month incidence of MACE was 13.6% and was driven by death. Predictors of 6‐month outcomes were clinical presentations as MI or cardiogenic shock, renal failure, and total stent length.

Conclusion: Nonagenarians represent a particular population with a high percentage of females and a high incidence of comorbidities. In this study, we highlighted that nonagenarians have logically a worse prognosis than is reported in younger patients, with especially high rates of in‐hospital bleedings. Bivalirudin use was associated with an important decrease in in‐hospital bleedings; thus, it should be systematically considered in such patients to improve early outcome.
Passive and Active Polymer Coatings for Intracoronary Stents: Novel Devices to Promote Arterial Healing
Authors: PENDYALA LAKSHMANA , JABARA REFAT , ROBINSON KEITH , CHRONOS NICOLAS
Published: February 2009

Coronary stent implantation is the second great advance in the treatment of obstructive coronary artery disease since the introduction of balloon catheter angioplasty. However, in‐stent restenosis (ISR) caused by neointimal hyperplasia has been a major limitation of stents, occurring in up to 30% of cases. Advances in coronary stent technology both in terms of stent design and function and especially drug‐eluting stents (DES) have significantly improved the safety and efficacy of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stenting, including marked reduction in ISR. This has led to use of DES for increasingly challenging clinical and lesional subsets, with potential for increased risk of stent‐associated complications, especially late stent thrombosis (LST). Because restenosis and stent thrombosis are caused by multiple and often interrelated factors, ideal agents for stent coatings should inhibit thrombus formation, inflammatory reaction, and cellular proliferation, while supporting reendothelialization. To avoid undesirable effects of currently applied (durable) polymers, biocompatible, and bioabsorbable polymers as well as DES delivery systems that minimize polymer burden have been produced and tested. Bioabsorbable stents, both polymeric and metallic, have been developed to decrease potential late complications after stent implantation. Novel strategies to address some of these challenges are in various stages of research and development. In this article we outline developments in the field of passive and active stent coatings and evaluate the ongoing role of such coatings in the contemporary era of DES.
Magnesium Sulfate versus Placebo for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Chu Kevin , Evans Rhona , Emerson Gregory , Greenslade Jaimi , Brown Anthony
Published: February 2009

Objectives:  The objective was to investigate the efficacy of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) in decreasing the ventricular rate in emergency department (ED) patients presenting with new‐onset, rapid atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods:  A double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled randomized clinical trial was conducted in an adult university hospital. Patients aged ≥18 years with AF onset of less than 48 hours and a sustained ventricular rate of >100 beats/min were randomized to either intravenous (IV) MgSO4 10 mmol or normal saline (NSal). Rhythm and instantaneous heart rate as measured by the monitor were recorded at baseline and every 15 minutes for 2 hours after starting the trial drug. Heart rate and rhythm were compared at 2 hours. A multilevel modeling analysis was performed to adjust for differences in baseline heart rate and any additional treatment and to examine changes in heart rate over time.

Results:  Twenty‐four patients were randomized to MgSO4 and 24 to NSal. Baseline heart rate was lower in the MgSO4 group (mean ± standard deviation [±SD] = 125 ± 24 vs. 140 ± 21 beats/min]. One and 3 patients in the MgSO4 and NSal groups, respectively, were given another antiarrhythmic or were electrically cardioverted within 2 hours after starting the trial drug. Heart rate (mean ± SD) at 2 hours in both MgSO4 (116 ± 30 beats/min) and NSal groups (114 ± 31 beats/min) decreased below their respective baseline levels. However, the rate of heart rate decrease across time did not differ between groups (p = 0.124). The proportion of patients who converted to sinus rhythm 2 hours post–trial drug did not differ (MgSO4 8.7% vs. NSal 25.0%, p = 0.25).

Conclusions:  This study was unable to demonstrate a difference between IV MgSO4 10 mmol and saline placebo for reducing heart rate or conversion to sinus rhythm at 2 hours posttreatment in ED patients with AF of less than 48 hours duration.
Location and Assessment of an Historic (150–160 Years Old) Mass Grave Using Geographic and Ground Penetrating Radar Investigation, NW Ireland*
Authors: Ruffell Alastair , McCabe Alan , Donnelly Colm , Sloan Brian
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  Reburial of human remains and concerns regarding pathogens and pollution prompted the search for, and assessment of, a 156‐year‐old graveyard. To locate this graveyard, historic and anecdotal information was compared to landscape interpretation from aerial photography. To assess and map the contents, surface collapses, metal detector indications, and ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) were used. Some 170 anomalies compatible with burials were identified on 200 MHz GPR data, 84 of which coincided with surface collapses, suggesting both noncollapsed ground, subsequent infill, and multiple inhumations. The graveyard was possibly split into Roman Catholic plots with multiple inhumations; Protestant plots; and a kileen, or graveyard for the unbaptized (often children). The work serves as one approach to the location and mapping of recent and historic unmarked graves.
Effects of Decomposition on Gunshot Wound Characteristics: Under Moderate Temperatures with Insect Activity
Authors: MacAulay Lauren E. , Barr Darryl G. , Strongman Doug B.
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  Previous studies document characteristics of gunshot wounds shortly after they were inflicted. This study was conducted to determine if the early stages of decomposition obscure or alter the physical surface characteristics of gunshot wounds, thereby affecting the quantity and quality of information retrievable from such evidence. The study was conducted in August and September, 2005 in Nova Scotia, Canada in forested and exposed environments. Recently killed pigs were used as research models and were shot six times each at three different ranges (contact, 2.5 cm, and 1.5 m). Under these test conditions, the gunshot wounds maintained the characteristics unique to each gunshot range and changes that occurred during decomposition were not critical to the interpretation of the evidence. It was concluded that changes due to decomposition under the conditions tested would not affect the collection and interpretation of gunshot wound evidence until the skin was degraded in the late active or advanced decay stage of decomposition.
Separation Anxiety, Perceived Controllability, and Homesickness1
Authors: Flett Gordon L. , Endler Norman S. , Besser Avi
Published: February 2009

The present study examined the multidimensional interactionism model of anxiety, stress, and coping by investigating trait separation anxiety, controllability, and homesickness in 152 university students living away from home. Participants completed measures of trait separation anxiety, state anxiety, perceived controllability of the situation, and homesickness. Correlational tests confirmed that trait separation anxiety and homesickness were associated. Also, low perceived controllability was associated with state anxiety and homesickness. Finally, tests of a mediational model confirmed that both perceived controllability of the situation and state anxiety are significant mediators of the association between trait separation anxiety and homesickness. The findings provide support for models of homesickness that focus on diminished sense of personal control and proximity to attachment figures.
Integrating the Unified Theory and Stages of Change to Create Targeted Health Messages
Authors: Hampton Brandy , Brinberg David , Peter Paula , Corus Canan
Published: February 2009

This study investigates the effects of targeted health messages toward reducing fat consumption by applying the unified theory of behavior change (Fishbein et al., 2001) and the stages of change model. In Study 1, affect and outcome expectancies significantly discriminated individuals within each stage of change. In Study 2, affect was more effective in changing intention for precontemplative individuals, whereas outcome expectancies were more effective in changing intention for contemplative individuals. Gender was a higher‐order moderator of this relationship: Precontemplative males were more influenced by an affective message, whereas contemplative males were more affected by a cognitive message. For females, a cognitive message was more effective for precontemplative individuals. There were no differences between the messages for contemplative females.