bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Pacemaker Longevity with Pacing Mode and Settings Programming: Results from a Pacemaker Multicenter Registry
Authors: BENKEMOUN HENRI , SACREZ JEAN , LAGRANGE PHILIPPE , AMIEL ALAIN , PRAKASH ATUL , HIMMRICH EWALD , AIMÈ EZIO , MAIRESSE GEORGES H. , GUÉNON CHRISTINE , SBRAGIA PASCAL 
Published: February 2012

Background: This study aimed to describe the influence on dual‐chamber devices' expected longevity of devices' settings.
Methods: Data from patients implanted with dual chamber devices (Symphony™, SORIN CRM SAS, Clamart, France) from 2003 to 2006 were collected in registries. Programmer files were retrieved: device‐estimated longevity, assessed through algorithm prediction, was analyzed according to device settings.
Results: One thousand sixty‐eight recipients of dual chamber pacemaker in sinus rhythm (75.3 ± 11.1 years, 54.5% male, ventricular block 30%, brady‐tachy syndrome 21%, and sinus node dysfunction 49%) were followed up to 14.2 ± 12.1 months (ranging from first quartile Q1: 2.9 months to fourth quartile Q4: 49.3 months) after implantation. DDD with automatic mode conversion and minimized ventricular pacing (SafeR) modes were programmed in 34.3%, 2.9%, and 62.8% of the patients, respectively.The mean total longevity estimated by the device was 134.1 ± 31.5 months (11.2 ± 2.6 years). Significant increase in longevity was observed in devices undergoing at least one reprogramming (134.4 ± 31.4 months) versus device presenting no reprogramming (103.4 ± 32.3 months, P = 0.0005). The parameters associated with the major increase in mean longevity were the mode (mean longevity increase of +23.9 months in SafeR as compared to DDD mode, P < 0.0001) and the atrial (A) and ventricular (V) amplitudes (mean longevity increase of +29.6 and +26.9 months for a decrease of less than 1V in A and V outputs respectively, P < 0.0001).
Conclusion: This study provides information on dual chamber pacemakers’ longevity and highlights the impact of devices’ reprogramming on expected longevities. PACE 2012; 35:403–408)
Comparison Between Atrial Fibrillation‐Triggered Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator (ICD) Shocks and Inappropriate Shocks Caused by Lead Failure: Different Impact on Prognosis in Clinical Practice
Authors: KLEEMANN THOMAS , HOCHADEL MATTHIAS , STRAUSS MARGIT , SKARLOS ALEXANDROS , SEIDL KARLHEINZ , ZAHN RALF 
Published: February 2012

Prognostic Impact of Inappropriate Shocks.Introduction: Recent studies suggest a worse impact of inappropriate shock therapies on the outcome of patients with an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD). However, it is not known whether the worse impact is attributed to the ICD shock itself or due to the underlying heart disease. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of inappropriate ICD shocks on clinical outcome by comparing ICD shocks triggered by atrial fibrillation (AF) with shocks caused by lead failure.Methods and Results: A total of 1,411 consecutive patients of the prospective single‐center ICD‐registry Ludwigshafen who underwent an ICD implantation between 1992 and 2008 for primary or secondary prevention of sudden cardiac death were analyzed. During the median follow‐up of 3 years, 297 (21%) patients experienced inappropriate ICD shocks. Sixty percent of patients had inappropriate shocks due to AF and 24% due to lead defect or T‐wave oversensing. Multiple ICD shocks (≥2) triggered by AF were associated with a worse prognosis, whereas a single shock due to AF or 1 or multiple shocks resulting from lead failure were not. ICD shocks caused by AF occurred more often in tandem with a serious adverse event than in patients with a lead failure (15% vs 6%, P < 0.05).Conclusion: Multiple ICD shocks triggered by AF are associated with a worse prognosis in ICD patients, whereas a single shock due to AF or shocks resulting from lead failure are not. These data support that the ICD shock itself has no worse impact on the outcome of ICD patients. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 735‐740, July 2012)
The effect of collagenated space filling materials in sinus bone augmentation: a study in rabbits
Authors: Lambert France , Léonard Angelique , Drion Pierre , Sourice Sophie , Pilet Paul , Rompen Eric 
Published: February 2012

AbstractAimThe inclusion of biomaterial particles used for alveolar bone regeneration in a carrier or in binding agents such as collagen gel or fibers is of interest as a means to help with surgical handling. However, the possible influence of collagen on bone tissue response to biomaterials is poorly studied. The objective of the present study was to investigate, in a sub‐sinus bone augmentation model in rabbits, the effect of collagen at different stages of the osteogenesis process. Histologic, histomorphometric and volumetric analyses were performed.Materials and methodsRabbits underwent a double sinus lift procedure using bovine hydroxyapatite (BHA), collagenated bovine hydroxyapatite (BHAColl), and prehydrated and collagenated porcine hydroxyapatite (PHAColl). Animals were sacrificed at 1 week, 5 weeks or 6 months. Samples were subjected to X‐ray micro‐tomography and histology. Qualitative analysis was performed on the non‐decalcified sections and quantitative histomorphometric analyses were conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Volume variations of bone augmentations were calculated at different time points.ResultsThe three biomaterials allowed an optimal bone formation and were able to equally withstand sinusal reexpansion. A comparable percentage of new bone, as well as 3D volume stability, was found between the groups at each time point. However, the PHAColl resorption rate was significantly higher than the rates in other groups (P = 0.0003), with only 3.6% of the particles remaining at 6 months. At 1 week, both collagenated groups displayed the presence of inflammatory cells although BHA did not show any sign of inflammation. At 5 weeks and 6 months, the inflammatory process had disappeared completely in the BHAColl groups, whereas some inflammatory‐like cells could still be observed around the remaining particles of PHAColl.Conclusions and clinical implicationsWithin the limitations of this study in rabbits, the findings showed the presence of inflammatory‐like cells at the early stage of bone regeneration when collagenated xenogenic biomaterials were used compared to xenogenic granules alone. Nevertheless, similar bone formation occurred and comparable 3D volumes were found at 6 months in the different groups.
Trichilemmomas show loss of PTEN in Cowden syndrome but only rarely in sporadic tumors
Authors: Al‐Zaid Tariq , Ditelberg Jeremy S. , Prieto Victor G. , Lev Dina , Luthra Raja , Davies Michael A. , Diwan A. Hafeez , Wang Wei‐Lien , Lazar Alexander J. 
Published: February 2012

Background: Trichilemmoma (TL) can occur as a solitary sporadic lesion usually on the face or as multiple facial lesions almost invariably associated with Cowden syndrome (CS). CS is a multisystem disorder caused by a germline inactivating mutation in PTEN (10q23.31), a tumor suppressor gene. We sought to identify PTEN loss by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in sporadic and CS‐associated TL to determine whether IHC is a useful tool to assess an individual for CS.Methods: Six TL biopsies associated with CS and 33 biopsies without CS were retrieved. IHC for PTEN was performed. Results were scored as positive (reactivity in TL cells) or negative (no reactivity in TL cells); normal squamous epithelium and vascular endothelium served as internal positive controls.Results: Complete PTEN loss was noted in 5/6 (83%) CS‐associated TL and 1/33 (3%) sporadic (non‐CS) TL.Conclusion: Demonstration of complete PTEN loss in TL by IHC is strongly suggestive of association with CS, but retention of PTEN staining does not entirely exclude CS. Therefore, PTEN IHC in TLs may be helpful in screening TL for association with CS, but should be used in context with other established clinical criteria, and possibly germline PTEN genotyping to confirm a diagnosis of CS.Al‐Zaid T, Ditelberg JS, Prieto VG, Lev D, Luthra R, Davies MA, Diwan AH, Wang W‐L, Lazar AJ. Trichilemmomas show loss of PTEN in Cowden syndrome but only rarely in sporadic tumors.
The validity of biochemical markers in metabolic bone disease in preterm infants: a systematic review
Authors: Visser Fenna , Sprij Arwen J , Brus Frank 
Published: February 2012

AbstractTo establish the validity of biochemical markers of metabolic bone disease (MBD) in preterm infants.Conclusion:  There is insufficient evidence that any of the frequently used serum measurements are valid biochemical markers of MBD in preterm infants. Increased urinary calcium concentration may be a valid biochemical marker, but more research is necessary to confirm this.
Absence of Central Nervous System and Hypothermic Effects after Single Oral Administration of High Doses of Oseltamivir in the Rat
Authors: Freichel Christian , Breidenbach Alexander , Hoffmann Gerhard , Körner Annette , Gatti Silvia , Donner Barbara , Bansod Sudhir , Bellot Muriel , Gand Laurent , Weiser Thomas , Singer Thomas , Prinssen Eric P. 
Published: February 2012

AbstractOseltamivir is widely used for the treatment and prophylaxis of influenza. Renewed interest in the central nervous system (CNS) tolerability profile of oseltamivir has been triggered by the reports of neuropsychiatric adverse events in patients with influenza. In addition, a recent pre‐clinical study in rodents suggested a hypothermic effect of oseltamivir. The current studies investigated the CNS effects, body temperature effect and toxicokinetic profile of oseltamivir in rats. The CNS/temperature study included three groups receiving oseltamivir (500, 763 and 1000 mg/kg free base by oral gavage), one vehicle/control group and one reference group (D‐amphetamine, 10 mg/kg). CNS parameters (behaviour, motor activity and co‐ordination and sensory/motor reflex responses) and rectal temperature were measured at baseline and at five intervals until 8 hr after dosing. In the toxicokinetic study, rats received oseltamivir by oral gavage at 763 or 1000 mg/kg free base. Plasma, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and perfused brain concentrations of oseltamivir and its active metabolite, oseltamivir carboxylate (OC), were measured until 8 hr after dosing. Median scores for CNS parameters were similar in controls and animals receiving oseltamivir at all time points. Oseltamivir had no physiologically relevant effect on body temperature, but induced a short‐lived and small dose‐independent decrease in temperature in all active treatment groups at 1 hr after dosing only. Plasma concentrations of OC were higher than of oseltamivir, but the reverse was true in CSF and brain. CNS penetration was low for both moieties. In rats, oseltamivir at supratherapeutic doses up to 1000 mg/kg free base did not exert any effects on CNS function or hypothermic effects and led to limited CNS exposure, resulting in large safety margins.
Sintering Behavior, Properties, and Applications of Co‐Fired Piezoelectric/Low Temperature Co‐Fired Ceramic (PZT‐SKN/LTCC) Multilayer Ceramics
Authors: Zhang Wenli , Eitel Richard E. 
Published: February 2012

Materials and processing conditions have been developed allowing co‐firing of fluxed PZT‐SKN materials with commercial low temperature co‐fired ceramic (LTCC) tapes. Previously, Pb(Zr0.53, Ti0.47)O3–Sr(K0.25, Nb0.75)O3 (PZT‐SKN) ceramics fluxed with 1 wt% LiBiO2 and 1 wt% CuO addition were shown to sinter to high density at 900°C for 1 h, with a large d33 piezoelectric coefficient of ~415 pm/V. Currently, the master sintering curve (MSC) approach has been used to study the densification behaviors of fluxed PZT‐SKN and LTCC tapes. Different sintering mechanisms for fluxed PZT‐SKN ceramics and LTCC materials are confirmed by analyzing the apparent activation energy (Qa). Using knowledge gained from MSC results, an optimized sintering profile was developed. Multilayer PZT‐SKN/HL2000 (HeraLock™ Tape, Heraeus) stacks co‐fired at 900°C for 0.5 h maintain large piezoelectric coefficient (high field d33 > 340 pm/V). EDS analysis reveal limited interdiffusion of Pb from PZT‐SKN layers in LTCC and the appearance of Al, Ca, and Si in the PZT‐SKN near the PZT‐SKN/LTCC interface. Further, elemental interdiffusion was not detected at the center of piezoelectric layer in PZT‐SKN/LTCC multilayer ceramics and no subsequent reduction in piezoelectric coefficient d33 was observed. Finally, a piezoelectric microbalance with mass sensitivity of 150 kHz/mg was fabricated using the materials and methods developed.
The Ranging Costs of a Fallback Food: Liana Consumption Supplements Diet but Increases Foraging Effort in Howler Monkeys
Authors: Dunn Jacob C. , Asensio Norberto , Arroyo‐Rodríguez Victor , Schnitzer Stefan , Cristóbal‐Azkarate Jurgi 
Published: February 2012

AbstractLianas are important components in the dynamics of tropical forests and represent fallback foods for some primates, yet little is known about their impact on primate ecology, behavior or fitness. Using 2 yr of field data, we investigated liana consumption and foraging effort in four groups of howler monkeys (two in bigger, more conserved forest fragments and two in smaller, less conserved fragments) to assess whether howler monkeys use lianas when and where food availability is scarce, and how liana consumption is related to foraging effort. Howler monkeys in smaller fragments spent more time consuming lianas and liana consumption was negatively related to the consumption of preferred food resources (fruit and Ficus spp.). Further, travel time was positively related to liana feeding time, but not to tree feeding time, and howler monkeys visited a greater number of food patches when feeding from liana leaves than when feeding from tree leaves. Our results suggest that these increases in foraging effort were related to the fact that lianas are mainly a source of leaves, and that liana patch size was probably smaller than tree patch size. While these results were clear when analyzing all four groups combined, however, they were not always significant in each of the groups individually. We suggest that this may be related to the differences in group size, patch size and the availability of resources among groups. Further studies are necessary to assess whether these dietary and behavioral adjustments negatively impact on the fitness and conservation of primates in fragments.
Effects of Local Plant Density and Incomplete Dichogamy on the Reproductive Success of the Rare Neotropical PalmGeonoma epetiolata
Authors: Martén‐Rodríguez Silvana , Quesada Mauricio , Momen Braham 
Published: February 2012

AbstractDensity dependent processes are known to influence reproduction and establishment of plant populations. In this study, we evaluated the effects of local density and sexual expression on the reproductive success of the rare palm speciesGeonoma epetiolatainCostaRica. We classified individuals in two density categories based on distances to the two nearest neighbors and recorded the occurrence of sexual overlap on each individual. Overlap between pistillate and staminate flowers in monoecious plants allows geitonogamous pollination, potentially reducing dependence on mates for reproduction. We measured plant size and light availability, and evaluated the influence of these variables on pollination success, fruit production, fruit abortion and seed mass. Pollination success significantly increased with density but there was no effect of sexual overlap. In contrast, there was no effect of density on the probability of initiated fruit, and a negative effect on fruit set. Fruit abortion was lowest in isolated plants with no sexual overlap. Plant size and light did not contribute to variation in reproductive success. In conclusion, the pollination advantage of plants in dense neighborhoods does not compensate reproductive losses incurred by fruit abortion, possibly due to mating among genetically related individuals.Geonoma epetiolatais threatened by habitat loss and poaching of seeds for the horticultural market. High fruit abortion rates associated with density inG. epetiolatasuggest that seed collections from the remnant wild populations of this palm species may cause bottlenecks that further threaten population viability.
Lack of Association between Air Pollutant Exposure and Short-Term Risk of Ischaemic Stroke in Lyon, France
Authors: Mechtouff Laura , Canoui-Poitrine Florence , Schott Anne-Marie , Nighoghossian Norbert , Trouillas Paul , Termoz Anne , Porthault-Chatard Sylvie , David Jean-Stephane , Chasles Virginie , Derex Laurent 
Published: February 2012

Background Some observational and experimental studies have suggested a short-term relationship between air pollutants and ischaemic stroke; however, the results conflict. Aims The objective of this study was to investigate the association between particulate matter less than 2·5 and 10 microns in aerodynamic diameter, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and ozone, and short-term risk of ischaemic stroke in Lyon, France. Methods The AVC69 study was a multicenter cohort study in which all consecutive adult patients admitted to one of the emergency or neurological departments of the Rhone area for suspicion of stroke were included during a seven-month period. Only patients with ischaemic stroke living within the study area, composed of Lyon and 18 neighbouring communities with homogenous air pollutants exposure, formed the basis of our study. We adopted a time-stratified case-crossover design to analyse the short-term effect (up to two-days) of air pollutants on ischaemic stroke incidence. Models were adjusted for temperature, variation of atmospheric pressure, minimal relative humidity, influenza epidemics, pollen count, and holidays. Stratified analyses by gender and class age were performed. Different lag times were analysed. Results 376 patients were included. Mean age was 76·6 years (±13·7). 53·7% were women. No association was observed between air pollutants and short-term risk of ischaemic stroke after adjustment for main confounding factors. Results remained unchanged whatever the gender or age. Conclusions These results suggest a lack of association between air pollutant exposure and short-term risk of ischaemic stroke in a French urban area.
Quality of Life in Rural and Urban Adults 65 Years and Older: Findings From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Baernholdt Marianne , Yan Guofen , Hinton Ivora , Rose Karen , Mattos Meghan 
Published: February 2012

AbstractPurpose: The proportion of people over 65 years of age is higher in rural areas than in urban areas, and their numbers are expected to increase in the next decade. This study used Andersen's behavioral model to examine quality of life (QOL) in a nationally representative sample of community‐dwelling adults 65 years and older according to geographic location. Specifically, associations between 3 dimensions of QOL (health‐related QOL [HQOL], social functioning, and emotional well‐being) and needs and health behaviors were examined.Methods: The 2005‐2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination survey was linked with the 2007 Area Resources File via the National Center for Health Statistics’ remote access system. Frequencies and distribution patterns were assessed according to rural, adjacent, and urban locations.Findings: Older adults reported high levels of QOL; however, rural older adults had lower social functioning than their urban counterparts. Older blacks and Hispanics had lower scores than whites on 2 dimensions of QOL. Associations between QOL and needs and health behaviors varied. Although activities of daily living were associated with all 3 dimensions, others were associated with 1 or 2 dimensions.Conclusions: The lower scores on social functioning in rural areas suggest that rural older adults may be socially isolated. Older rural adults may need interventions to maintain physical and mental health, strengthen social relationships and support, and increase their participation in the community to promote QOL. In addition, older blacks and Hispanics seem more vulnerable than whites and may need more assistance.
Insights from the experiences of older people with hearing impairment in the United Kingdom: recommendations for nurse‐led rehabilitation
Authors: Bennion Amy , Forshaw Mark J. 
Published: February 2012

Aims and objectives.  This study aims to explore, and develop a greater understanding of the experience of living with age‐related hearing impairment from the perspectives of older people themselves to highlight possible recommendations for the improvement of hearing aid (HA) services and rehabilitation.Background.  Hearing impairment (HI) is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting older people. HI can have a huge impact on a wide variety of life factors including physical, mental and social health and can lead to a reduction in quality of life. With the current ageing population, the numbers living with hearing impairment in old age is likely to increase. Currently, the diagnosis of hearing impairment in older people can be slow with individuals living with hearing impairment for around 10 years before being diagnosed.Methods.  The research utilises a descriptive qualitative method in the form of descriptive thematic analysis. Findings are reported from semi‐structured interviews with nine participants with self‐reported HI, aged 61–93.Results.  Themes include; the loss itself, communication, using HAs, isolation, and coping strategies.Conclusions and implications for practice.  The results highlight the need for early diagnosis of HI and the development of nurse‐led rehabilitation strategies and support services that address the felt stigma and potentially isolating experiences of older people with HI.
Ambiguities: residents’ experience of ‘nursing home as my home’
Authors: Nakrem Sigrid , Vinsnes Anne G. , Harkless Gene E. , Paulsen Bård , Seim Arnfinn 
Published: February 2012

Background.  Residential care in nursing homes continues to be necessary for those individuals who are no longer able to live at home. Uncovering what nursing home residents’ view as quality of care in nursing homes will help further understanding of how best to provide high quality, person‐centred care.Aim.  To describe residents’ experiences of living in a nursing home related to quality of care.Design.  The study utilises a descriptive exploratory design.Method.  In‐depth interviews were undertaken with 15 residents who were not cognitively impaired, aged 65 and over and living in one of four nursing homes. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed by categorising of meaning.Results.  Residents perceived the nursing home as their home, but at the same time not ‘a home’. This essential ambiguity created the tension from which the categories of perceptions of quality emerged. Four main categories of quality of care experience were identified: ‘Being at home in a nursing home’, ‘Paying the price for 24‐hour care’, ‘Personal habits and institutional routines’, and ‘Meaningful activities for a meaningful day’.Conclusions.  Ambiguities concerning the nursing home as a home and place to live, a social environment in which the residents experience most of their social life and the institution where professional health service is provided were uncovered. High‐quality care was when ambiguities were managed well and a home could be created within the institution.Implication for practice.  Achieving quality care in nursing homes requires reconciling the ambiguities of the nursing home as a home. This implies helping residents to create a private home distinct from the professional home, allowing residents’ personal habits to guide institutional routines and supporting meaningful activities. Using these resident developed quality indicators is an important step in improving nursing home services.