bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Passage through alternative hosts changes the fitness of Fusarium graminearum and Fusarium pseudograminearum
Authors: Akinsanmi Olufemi A. , Chakraborty Sukumar , Backhouse David , Simpfendorfer Steven
Published: November 2006

Species of the necrotrophic fungal pathogen Fusarium that cause head blight and crown rot of cereals including wheat also infect a number of alternative host plants. This raises the prospect of more damaging pathogen strains originating and persisting as highly successful saprophytes on hosts other than wheat. The immediate impact on pathogenic (aggressiveness) and saprophytic (growth rate and fecundity) behaviour of six isolates with low, moderate or high initial aggressiveness was examined in two species of Fusarium after their passage through 10 alternative plant hosts. One passage through alternative hosts significantly reduced the pathogenic fitness of most isolates, but this change was not associated with a concomitant change in their overall saprophytic behaviour. The overall weak association between aggressiveness, fecundity and growth rate both before and after passage through the alternative hosts indicate that pathogenic and saprophytic fitness traits may be independently controlled in both Fusarium species. Thus, there was no trade‐off between pathogenic and saprophytic fitness in these necrotrophic plant pathogens.
Awareness and determinants of family planning practice in Jimma, Ethiopia
Authors: Beekle A. T. , McCabe C.
Published: November 2006

Background:  The continuing growth of the world population has become an urgent global problem. Ethiopia, like most countries in sub‐Saharan Africa, is experiencing rapid population growth. Currently, the country’s population is growing at a rate of 3%, one of the highest rates in the world and if it continues unabated, the population will have doubled in 23 years, preventing any gain in the national development effort.

Aim:  To determine the level and determinants of family planning awareness and practice in one Ethiopian town.

Methodology:  A quantitative study using a descriptive survey design was conducted in Jimma University Hospital.

Discussion:  The findings revealed that the knowledge and practice of modern contraception methods was low. Most women’s contraceptive knowledge and practice was influenced by socio‐cultural norms such as male/husband dominance and opposition to contraception, and low social status of women. A lack of formal education for women was identified as a key factor in preventing change in the patterns of contraceptive knowledge and use by women in this part of Ethiopia.

Conclusion:  The support and encouragement for women and men to enter and complete formal education is essential in bringing about a cultural and social change in attitude towards the economic and social value of family planning. This study and others suggest that education can address the imbalance in decision making about contraception and the role of women in society generally.
Primary Health Care Nurses’ conceptions of involuntarily migrated families’ health
Authors: Samarasinghe K. , Fridlund B. , Arvidsson B.
Published: November 2006

Background:  Involuntary migration and adaptation to a new cultural environment is known to be a factor of psychological stress. Primary Health Care Nurses (PHCNs) frequently interact with refugee families as migrant health needs are mainly managed within Primary Health Care.

Aim:  To describe the health of the involuntary migrated family in transition as conceptualized by Swedish PHCNs.

Method:  Thirty‐four PHCNs from two municipalities in Sweden were interviewed and phenomenographical contextual analysis was used in analysing the data.

Findings:  Four family profiles were created, each epitomizing the health characteristics of a migrated family in transition: (1) a mentally distressed family wedged in the asylum‐seeking process, (2) an insecure family with immigrant status, (3) a family with internal instability and segregated from society, and (4) a stable and well‐functioning family integrated in society. Contextual socio‐environmental stressors such as living in uncertainty awaiting asylum, having unprocessed traumas, change of family roles, attitudes of the host country and social segregation within society were found to be detrimental to the well‐being of the family.

Conclusion:  Acceptance and a clear place in society as well as clearly defined family roles are crucial in facilitating a healthy transition for refugee families. Primary Health Care Nursing can facilitate this by adopting a family system perspective in strengthening the identity of the families and reducing the effects of socio‐environmental stressors.
Self‐coping complexity: Role of self‐construal in relational, individual and collective coping styles and health outcomes
Authors: Hardie Elizabeth A. , Critchley Christine , Morris Zoe
Published: November 2006

Using a tripartite relational (R), individual (I) and collective (C) framework, three studies explored the health benefits of self‐coping complexity (SCC). Study 1 (N = 333) developed and validated RIC coping scales. Study 2 (N = 346) identified two clusters of Australians, those with an expansive pattern of multiple self‐aspects and coping styles, and those with a more restricted self‐coping pattern. Both clusters reported similar stress, but the expansive high SCC cluster reported greater well‐being. A culturally diverse sample (N = 225) in Study 3 yielded the expected high SCC RIC self‐coping cluster, plus interdependent RC and independent I clusters. Cluster membership was not associated with culture or gender in these studies, but greater SCC did confer a health advantage to men and women from both Eastern and Western cultures.
Temporary Bottlenecks, Hydropower and Acquisitions*
Authors: Skaar Jostein , Sørgard Lars
Published: November 2006

We apply a model with four markets, two regions and two time periods, to study the effects of an acquisition in a hydropower system with temporary bottlenecks. The effect on welfare is found to be ambiguous. In some instances an acquisition leads to larger differences in prices between markets, which gives rise to an increase in deadweight loss. In other instances it leads to a reduction in price differences between markets, particularly if the dominant firm acquires a firm which was active in the market where the dominant firm used to dump its production before the acquisition.
Left to Market and Family – Again? Ideas and the Development of the Rural Pension Policy in China
Authors: Shi Shih‐Jiunn
Published: November 2006

The rural pension policy in China is characterized by a high degree of instability. In the past 15 years since the introduction of pilot schemes in some regions, the state has been unable to establish a stable institutional framework for rural old‐age security. This article seeks to integrate the theoretical insights from a growing body of international literature on the role of ideas in social policy reform in order to shed new light on the study of Chinese rural pension policy. I argue that the rise of the rural pension scheme and its eventual failure to make consistent progress towards a comprehensive system is directly related to conflicting ideas among bureaucrats with respect to what sort of welfare provision the rural elderly actually need. The fluctuations in this policy realm vividly illustrate the predominance of the policy idea that peasants could still rely on their land and family, supplemented by private commercial insurance, in their old age. Given this alleged self‐reliance on the part of rural residents, the state is very reluctant to set up a comprehensive rural pension scheme. As a result, the old‐age security of the peasants in rural China is standing on very thin ice, and the prospect for more active state involvement in the near future remains dim.
TRANSCENDING DICHOTOMIES IN HISTORY AND RELIGION
Authors: MCINTIRE C. T.
Published: November 2006

At first glance, to speak of “history and religion” presents no problem. We merely identify two items to discuss in the same study. We quickly discover, however, that since at least the twentieth century the pair “history and religion” has tended to operate as a dichotomy. Within the dominant traditions of discourse originating in Europe, over many centuries, the verbal pair “history and religion” became a dichotomy encoded as the dichotomy “secular and religious,” signifying the opposition “not religious and religious.” This dichotomy does not usually appear alone, but commonly comes associated with other dichotomies whose terms align with either history or religion. The short list of associated dichotomies includes: temporal and spiritual, natural and supernatural, reason and faith, public and private, social and personal, scientific and theological, objective and subjective, rational and emotional, and modern and medieval. The opposing parts come gendered as masculine and feminine. Usage of the dichotomies creates tensions with practitioners of virtually all religions in all regions of the world. Rigorous and consistent users of the dichotomies misunderstand the character of religions as ways of life, fail to account for the persistence and revival of religion in the twenty‐first century, and overlook the intrinsic manner in which history manifests religion and religion manifests history. The defective outcomes prompt a number of constructive suggestions for transcending dichotomies in history and religion. These reflections on dichotomies refer to several varieties of Christianity, the emergence of the secular option, and the imagined triumph of Hindu dharma.
The trade union merger process in Europe: defensive adjustment or strategic reform?
Authors: Waddington Jeremy
Published: November 2006

In most Member States of the European Union, trade unionists are reforming trade union structures through engagement in the merger process. This article charts the scale of the merger process since 2000 and identifies the key features of the unions that result from it. The article assesses the outcome of the merger process by reference to aspects of trade union purpose. While much of the merger process is shown to be defensive, particular mergers are highlighted as comprising features that may assist in the renewal of trade union organisation.
The free movement of workers and social Europe: maintaining the European ideal
Authors: Donaghey Jimmy , Teague Paul
Published: November 2006

The big EU enlargement of 2004 has fuelled the debate about whether labour migration from the east to the west is causing social dumping in the European economy, with the effect of upsetting established national systems of labour market regulation. This article reviews the effects of migration on EU labour markets. It also examines three recent industrial relations disputes which were about job displacement. It argues that there is little evidence of greater labour mobility causing new social dumping pressures on a widespread basis. However, it goes on to suggest that the situation may change if the EU adopts neoliberal policies such as the initial draft Services Directive at the same time as promoting greater labour market openness between the Member States. The article concludes by arguing for a better policy mix which would on the one hand involve the EU maintaining its commitment to the free movement of workers and on the other hand strengthen labour standard‐setting mechanisms at both the EU and national levels.
Endosperm formation in aposporous Crataegus (Rosaceae, Spiraeoideae, tribe Pyreae): parallels to Ranunculaceae and Poaceae
Authors: Talent Nadia , Dickinson Timothy A.
Published: November 2006

Apomixis in Crataegus is primarily aposporous and requires pollination. The embryo sac is of the Polygonum type. A combination of meiotically unreduced embryo sacs with apparently reduced pollen would violate the usual requirement for a 2 : 1 ratio of maternal to paternal contributions to the endosperm. We therefore investigated the origin of endosperm in seeds of sexual diploids and apomictic polyploids of the sister genera Crataegus and Mespilus.

Flow‐cytometric DNA measurements from embryo and endosperm in mature seeds were converted to ploidy levels using leaf‐tissue information.

The diploids had triploid endosperm. In c. 60% of seed from polyploids, one sperm apparently contributes to the endosperm, while 25% or more may involve two sperm. Additional results suggest that trinucleate central cells also occur. Fertilization of meiotically unreduced eggs is indicated.

The ratio of maternal to paternal contributions to the endosperm in these apomictic Crataegus is not constrained to 2 : 1. They thus resemble some Sorbus (Pyreae) and very distantly related Ranunculus (Ranunculaceae). It is suggested that Paspalum (Poaceae) may have similarly flexible endosperm ploidy levels.
Short communication: Consensus on the management of obstetric cholestasis: National UK survey
Authors: Saleh MM , Abdo KR
Published: November 2006

An anonymous questionnaire was sent to the lead consultant obstetricians and the midwives in charge of the antenatal clinics of all maternity units in UK to determine their current views on the diagnosis and management of obstetric cholestasis (OC). The response rate was 60%. Management policies were broadly similar and consistent with those recommended in the current literature. However, the survey highlighted areas for improvement. Based on the findings of this survey, a consensus view of the management of OC in UK is achievable.
Commentary: Is elective single embryo transfer a cost‐effective alternative to double embryo transfer?
Authors: Scotland GS , McNamee P , Bhattacharya S
Published: November 2006

Elective single embryo transfer (eSET) is increasingly being considered as a means to reduce twin pregnancies associated with in vitro fertilisation treatment. However, it is important to consider the cost‐effectiveness of alternative strategies when considering a change in policy. A review of the literature showed only five studies assessing both costs and consequences of strategies involving eSET compared with double embryo transfer. Several limitations in these studies prevent a definitive conclusion on the cost‐effectiveness of eSET being reached. Future economic evaluations need to compare strategies relevant to routine practice, include all relevant costs, measure and value longer term outcomes appropriately, and assess the cost‐effectiveness of eSET across different subgroups of women.
Characterization of microsatellites in the fungal plant pathogen Crinipellis perniciosa
Authors: GRAMACHO KARINA P. , RISTERUCCI A. M. , LANAUD C. , LIMA L. S. , LOPES U. V.
Published: November 2006

Microsatellite markers of Crinipellis perniciosa, with three and four repeats, were developed from sequence database and evaluated for their usefulness in detecting genetic polymorphism. Thirty‐three primers produced unambiguous amplification products of 28 microsatellite‐containing loci and 14 microsatellite‐like polymorphic loci, with two to seven alleles at each locus. Three loci were useful to distinguish isolates from different biotypes and isolates from different countries. Amplification of the markers in the closely related fungi Moniliophthora roreri indicates that their usefulness in population's studies may go beyond the present study of the C. perniciosa and may have applications in population genetics of M. roreri.
INDIVIDUAL EQUITY RETURN DATA FROM THOMSON DATASTREAM: HANDLE WITH CARE!
Authors: Ince Ozgur S. , Porter R. Burt
Published: November 2006

We compare individual U.S. equity return data from Thomson Datastream (TDS) with similar data from the Center for Research in Security Prices (CRSP) to evaluate TDS for use in studies involving large numbers of individual equities in markets outside the United States. We document important issues of coverage, classification, and data integrity and find that naive use of TDS data can have a large impact on economic inferences. We show that after careful screening of the TDS data, inferences drawn from TDS data are similar to those drawn from CRSP. We illustrate the importance of the screens we develop using U.S. TDS data by applying the screens to TDS data from four European equity markets.
Helicobacter felis Infection Causes an Acute Iron Deficiency in Nonpregnant and Pregnant Mice
Authors: Gøbel Rikke , Symonds Erin L. , Kritas Stawatiki , Butler Ross N , Tran Coung Duy
Published: November 2006

Background  The role of Helicobacter pylori infection in iron deficiency during pregnancy is limited. The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between Helicobacter infection and levels of iron stores in pregnant mice.

Materials and Methods  Female C57BL/6 mice were either inoculated with 108 H. pylori, Helicobacter felis or water. In the nonpregnant study, 15 mice from each group were sacrificed after 4 and 20 weeks of infection. In the pregnancy study, after 6 weeks of infection all female mice were mated and approximately 2 weeks after mating, half of the pregnant mice (n = 9/group) from each group were sacrificed. The remaining mice were allowed to give birth, and approximately 4 weeks after birth, mice were asphyxiated with CO2, followed by heart puncture, and killed by cervical dislocation. Serum ferritin and iron were determined with a micro‐particle enzyme immunoassay method and by a timed‐endpoint method.

Results  Serum iron levels in mice infected with H. felis were significantly (p < .05) lowered compared to control (24%) and H. pylori (27%)‐infected mice at 4 weeks of infection. Serum iron in the control, H. pylori and H. felis groups were significantly (p < .05) elevated at 20 weeks by 39, 26 and 77%, respectively, compared to 4 weeks of infection. H. felis‐infected mice had a significantly (p < .05) decreased serum ferritin level during pregnancy (61%) compared to H. pylori‐infected mice.

Conclusion  These results suggest that H. felis but not H. pylori infection causes an acute iron deficiency in normal and pregnant mice.
Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori vacA, cagA, cagE, iceA, babA2 Genotypes and Correlation with Clinical Outcome in Turkish Patients with Dyspepsia
Authors: Erzin Y. , Koksal V. , Altun S. , Dobrucali A. , Aslan M. , Erdamar S. , Dirican A. , Kocazeybek B.
Published: November 2006

Background:  Distinct virulence factors of Helicobacter pylori have been associated with clinical outcome of the infection; however, considerable variations have been reported from different geographic regions and data on genotypes of Turkish H. pylori isolates are sparse.

Aim:  To determine the prevalence of specific genotypes of H. pylori in Turkish patients with dyspepsia.

Materials and Methods:   Ninety‐three H. pylori‐positive patients [30 with non‐ulcer dyspepsia (NUD), 30 with duodenal ulcer (DU), and 33 with gastric cancer (GC)] who were admitted to our endoscopy unit due to dyspepsia were enrolled in the study. H. pylori infection was confirmed in all patients by histology and rapid urease test (RUT). The presence of vacA alleles, cagA, cagE, iceA, and babA2 genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Chi‐squared test and Fisher's exact test were used for statistical comparisons and multivariate regression analysis was performed to find out independent predictors of different clinical outcomes.

Results:  Turkish strains examined predominantly possessed the vacA s1,m2 (48.4%) and s1,m1 (40.7%) genotypes. The vacA s1a genotype was detected in 66.7, 96.4, and 87.9% of isolates from patients with NUD, DU, and GC, respectively, and its presence was significantly associated with that of DU (p = .004), GC (p = .043), and cagA gene (p = .021). None of the cases was found to harbor the s1c genotype.

The frequencies of the cagA and cagE genes among studied isolates were 73.6 and 59.3%, respectively. The cagA gene was significantly associated with the presence of DU (p = .004) and GC (p = .003), and the cagE gene, too, was significantly associated with the presence of DU (p = .002) and GC (p = .000).

All H. pylori isolates possessed the iceA gene. In all, 68 isolates (74.7%) were positive for iceA1 and 23 (25.3%) for iceA2. The frequency of icea1 gene was significantly higher in cases with GC (85%) than in cases with NUD (60%) (p = .026).

The frequency of babA2 gene was 23.3, 46.4, and 87.9% in isolates of patients with NUD, DU, and GC, respectively. When compared to cases with NUD (p = .000) and DU (p = .000), the presence of babA2 gene was significantly higher in cases with GC.

Multivariate regression analysis disclosed cagE (p = .006) and vacA s1a (p = .027) genotypes to be independent predictors of DU and babA2 (p = .000) and cagE (p = .013) genotypes to be independent predictors of GC.

Conclusions:  H. pylori vacA s1a, cagA, cagE genotypes have significant relations with the presence of DU and GC, and iceA1, babA2 with GC in Turkish patients with dyspepsia, whereas cagE and vacA s1a genotypes are independent predictors of DU, and babA2 and cagE genotypes are independent predictors of GC.
Alaska Sentinel Surveillance for Antimicrobial Resistance in Helicobacter pylori Isolates from Alaska Native Persons, 1999–2003
Authors: Bruce Michael G. , Bruden Dana L. , McMahon Brian J. , Hennessy Thomas W. , Reasonover Alisa , Morris Julie , Hurlburt Debby A. , Peters Helen , Sacco Frank , Martinez Patrick , Swenson Michael , Berg Douglas E. , Parks Debra , Parkinson Alan J.
Published: November 2006

Background:  Previous studies in Alaska have demonstrated elevated proportions of antimicrobial resistance among Helicobacter pylori isolates.

Materials and Methods:  We analyzed H. pylori data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s sentinel surveillance in Alaska from July 1999 to June 2003 to determine the proportion of culture‐positive biopsies from Alaska Native persons undergoing routine upper‐endoscopy, and the susceptibility of H. pylori isolates to metronidazole [minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of > 8 g metronidazole/mL), clarithromycin (MIC ≥ 1), tetracycline (MIC ≥ 2) and amoxicillin (MIC ≥ 1)] using agar dilution.

Results:  Nine‐hundred sixty‐four biopsy specimens were obtained from 687 participants; 352 (51%) patients tested culture positive. Mean age of both culture‐positive and culture‐negative patients was 51 years. Metronidazole resistance was demonstrated in isolates from 155 (44%) persons, clarithromycin resistance from 108 (31%) persons, amoxicillin resistance from 8 (2%) persons, and 0 for tetracycline resistance. Metronidazole and clarithromycin resistance varied by geographic region. Female patients were more likely than male subjects to show metronidazole resistance (p < .01) and clarithromycin resistance (p = .05).

Conclusions:  Resistance to metronidazole and clarithromycin is more common among H. pylori isolates from Alaska Native persons when compared with those from elsewhere in the USA.
The role of low expectations in health and education investment and hazardous consumption
Authors: Clark Jeremy , Kim Bonggeun , Poulton Richie , Milne Barry
Published: November 2006

Abstract Young people with little ‘social or health capital’ may be more likely to take up hazardous consumption and shun investments in human capital, raising their likelihood of a ‘rags to rags’ sequence. First, diminishing marginal utility could raise the marginal benefit of hazardous consumption and the cost of investment. But poor youths may also have lower expectations of future success, independent of the choices they make. Lower expectations of success could reduce the future cost of hazardous consumption and benefit of investment. We test the effect of expectations on decisions to smoke, drink hazardously, exercise, and complete high school, using a longitudinal study of youth in New Zealand. We find that 15‐year‐olds' expectations of success predict the subsequent onset of smoking, lack of exercise, and failure to complete high school, but not hazardous drinking. While some of the influence of expectations can be explained by low social and health capital, IQ, and other factors, expectations retain a direct effect on smoking and exercise once these other factors are controlled for.
Income splitting among the self‐employed
Authors: Schuetze Herbert J.
Published: November 2006

Abstract Under individual taxation with progressive marginal tax rates, households in which the distribution of income is unequal benefit from attributing income to the lower income household member. Self‐employment provides greater potential to ‘split’ income in this way because of the absence of a third party reporting income. Using the Canadian experience as a case study, this paper develops a unique estimator of the incidence of illegal income splitting among self‐employed couples. The results suggest that the incidence of income splitting among self‐employed men in Canada is non‐trivial; but no evidence is found that self‐employed women attribute income to their spouses.
The returns from rent‐seeking: campaign contributions, firm subsidies and the Byrd Amendment
Authors: Liebman Benjamin H. , Reynolds Kara M.
Published: November 2006

Abstract This is the first empirical study to examine Congressional support of a new law that distributes antidumping duties to protected firms. Because the law produces a transparent measure of how much each firm was rewarded for its efforts to secure the bill's passage, it provides researchers with a unique opportunity to study the link between the expected financial returns to firms, campaign contributions, and Congressional behaviour. Our results indicate that campaign contributions from beneficiaries increased the likelihood that lawmakers would sponsor the law, while contributions from the law's beneficiaries increased with the rewards they expected to receive.
Reversal of Left Ventricular Dysfunction Following Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: GENTLESK PHILIP J. , SAUER WILLIAM H. , GERSTENFELD EDWARD P. , LIN DAVID , DIXIT SANJAY , PA‐C ERICA ZADO , CALLANS DAVID , MARCHLINSKI FRANCIS E.
Published: November 2006

Background: Evaluation of ventricular rate control in atrial fibrillation (AF) can be difficult, and the presence of an AF‐induced ventricular cardiomyopathy due to intermittent poor rate control or other causes may be underestimated. The outcome with AF ablation in patients with a decreased left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) may provide insight into this important clinical issue.

Objective: To determine the effect of pulmonary vein isolation on LVEF in patients with AF and decreased LVEF (≤50%).

Methods: Ablation consisted of proximal isolation of arrhythmogenic pulmonary veins (PVs) and elimination of non‐PV triggers. LVEF was determined within 24 hours after ablation and again at up to 6 months follow‐up. Transtelephonic monitoring was performed routinely for 2–3 weeks prior to ablation, at 6 weeks, and 6 months post and with symptoms following ablation. AF control was defined as freedom from AF or marked (>90%) reduction in AF burden on or off previously ineffective antiarrhythmic medication.

Results: AF ablation was performed in 366 patients and 67 (18%) patients had decreased LV function with a mean LVEF of 42 ± 9%. An average of 3.4 ± 0.9 PVs were isolated. AF control in the depressed LVEF group compared favorably with the normal EF group (86% vs. 87% P = NS), although more redo procedures were required (1.6 ± 0.8 vs 1.3 ± 0.6 procedures; P ≤ 0.05). Only 15 of 67 patients (22%) with decreased LVEF had shown tachycardia (>100 bpm) on repeated preablation ECG recordings during AF. In the decreased LVEF group, the LVEF increased from 42 ± 9% to 56 ± 8% (P < 0.001) after ablation.

Conclusions: Patients with AF and decreased LVEF undergoing AF ablation have similar success to patients with normal LVEF and have improvement in LVEF after ablation. These results suggest the presence of a reversible AF‐induced ventricular cardiomyopathy in many patients with AF and depressed LV function. The presence of under‐recognized and reversible cardiomyopathy even when tachycardia is not persistent is important to recognize.
Electroanatomic Remodeling of the Left Atrium in Patients Undergoing Repeat Pulmonary Vein Ablation: Mechanistic Insights and Implications for Ablation
Authors: MESAS CÉZAR EUMANN , AUGELLO GIUSEPPE , EDWARD LANG CHRISTOPHER CHARLES , GUGLIOTTA FILIPPO , VICEDOMINI GABRIELE , SORA NICOLETA , De PAOLA ANGELO AMATO VINCENZO , PAPPONE CARLO
Published: November 2006

Introduction: There is limited information describing late changes in the electroanatomic characteristics of the left atrium (LA) associated with recurrence after an anatomical circumferential pulmonary vein ablation (CPVA) for atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods and Results: Forty‐seven patients (57 ± 8 years) undergoing a repeat ablation after CPVA were included. Using an electroanatomic mapping system, we measured the bipolar voltage by averaging points in the pulmonary vein (PV)‐LA junction and four other LA sites. Conduction velocity and AF cycle length (AFCL) were also measured and the results are compared with the first procedure. After an initial decrease observed at the end of the first procedure, voltage and conduction velocity returned to intermediate values in all LA sites, with lower voltage at the LIPV antrum (P = 0.004), and lower conduction velocity across the LIPV and RSPV (P < 0.001). Conduction gaps were more prevalent at the septal aspect of the right PV encircling lines (85%), between the left atrial appendage (LAA) and the LSPV (70%) and lines at the posterior wall (71%). There was a nonsignificant increase in AFCL, with a more widespread distribution of organized electrograms (32.4% vs 46.6%).

Conclusion: Recurrence after CPVA is associated with a reverse process of voltage and conduction velocity increase across ablated areas, especially the PV‐LA junction, and is related to the presence of conduction gaps, which are distributed mostly at the septal aspect of the lines encircling the right PVs and at the LAA‐LSPV area. Organization of atrial electrograms seen during AF ablation is maintained at a repeat procedure.
The Managed Ventricular Pacing™ Versus VVI 40 Pacing (MVP) Trial: Clinical Background, Rationale, Design, and Implementation
Authors: SWEENEY MICHAEL O. , ELLENBOGEN KENNETH A. , MILLER ELAINE HOGAN , SHERFESEE LOU , SHELDON TODD , WHELLAN DAVID
Published: November 2006

Background: Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) reduce mortality among appropriately selected patients who have had or are at risk for life‐threatening ventricular arrhythmia. Right ventricular apical (RVA) pacing has been implicated in worsening heart failure and death. The optimal pacemaker mode for bradycardia support while minimizing unnecessary and potentially harmful RVA pacing has not been determined.

Methods: The Managed Ventricular pacing vs. VVI 40 Pacing Trial (MVP) is a prospective, multicenter, randomized, single‐blind, parallel, controlled clinical trial designed to establish whether atrial‐based dual‐chamber managed ventricular pacing mode (MVP™) is equivalent or superior to back‐up only ventricular pacing (VVI 40) among patients with standard indications for ICD therapy and no indication for bradycardia pacing. The MVP Trial is designed with 80% power to detect a 10% reduction in the primary endpoint of new or worsening heart failure or all‐cause mortality in the MVP™‐treated group.

Approximately 1,000 patients at 80 centers in the United States, Canada, Western Europe, and Israel will be randomized to MVP™ or VVI 40 pacing after successful implantation of a dual‐chamber ICD. Heart failure therapies will be optimized in accordance with evidence‐based guidelines. Prespecified secondary endpoints will include ventricular arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation, new indication for bradycardia pacing, health‐related quality of life, and cost effectiveness. Enrollment began in October 2004 and concluded in April 2006. The study will be terminated upon recommendation of the Data Monitoring Committee or when the last patient enrolled and surviving has reached a minimum 2 years of follow‐up.

Conclusion: The MVP Trial will meet the clinical need for carefully designed prospective studies to define the benefits of atrial‐based dual‐chamber minimal ventricular pacing versus single‐chamber ventricular pacing in conventional ICD patients.
Biological maturity and injury in elite youth football
Authors: Le Gall F. , Carling C. , Reilly T.
Published: November 2006

The purpose of the present study was to investigate injury according to biological maturity in elite under‐14 youth football players based at the National Football Institute, France. Over 10 seasons, injury incidence, severity and distribution were compared in 233 players classed according to individual biological maturity determined by skeletal age into three cohorts as early, normal and late maturers.

A non‐significant higher injury incidence was found in early and normal maturers compared with late maturers. In contrast, the latter group sustained a significantly higher incidence of major injuries compared with early maturers (0.3 vs 0.6 vs 0.9, P=0.039). A significantly higher incidence of osteochrondoses was reported in normal and late maturers (0.3 vs 0.7 vs 0.9, P=0.014), whereas tendinopathy incidence was greater in early and normal maturers (0.06 vs 0.08 vs 0.02, P=0.033). Early maturers incurred the highest incidence of groin strains and re‐injuries (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between groups in the seasonal disposition of injury.

Biological maturity status did not significantly affect overall injury incidence in elite French youth football players, although there were differences between maturity groups when patterns of injury location, type, severity and re‐injury were analyzed.
Effect of physical activity and muscle morphology on endothelial function and arterial stiffness
Authors: Rönnback M. , Hernelahti M. , Hämäläinen E. , Groop P. H. , Tikkanen H.
Published: November 2006

Physically active persons have a reduced risk of atherosclerotic disease. Arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction are important risk factors for cardiovascular disease. A high proportion of type I (slow‐twitch) muscle fibers in skeletal muscle is associated with a favorable cardiovascular risk profile. We tested physical activity and muscle fiber‐type distribution as determinants of endothelial function and arterial stiffness in middle‐aged men. Fifty‐four men (median age 58) who underwent a muscle biopsy in 1984 were re‐studied in 2003. Aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) and pulse wave reflection were assessed by applanation tonometry. Endothelial function was tested by examining the effects of salbutamol and nitroglycerin on pulse wave reflection. In multiple regression analyses aortic PWV (R2=0.51) correlated positively with age (P=0.017), BMI (P=0.001), and systolic blood pressure (P=0.004). A high augmentation index (R2=0.33) was associated with smoking (P<0.001), high LDL cholesterol (P=0.02), and elevated diastolic blood pressure (P=0.03). Impaired endothelial function (R2=0.37) was associated with high age (P=0.04), high LDL cholesterol (P=0.017), high triglycerides (P=0.027), and high physical activity (P=0.005). Muscle fiber‐type distribution is not a determinant of arterial stiffness or endothelial function. Impaired endothelial function was observed in physically active men, underlining the need for further research.
Achilles tendon pain intensity and level of neovascularization in athletes as determined by color Doppler ultrasound
Authors: Van Snellenberg W. , Wiley J. P. , Brunet G.
Published: November 2006

The cause of pain in Achilles tendinopathy is thought to be related to the presence of neovascularization in the tendon as seen on color Doppler ultrasound. Asymptomatic pathology has been observed in patellar tendons of elite athletes. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of Achilles tendon pain and the characteristics of Achilles tendons in a young athletic population. Sixty‐four varsity athletes underwent color Doppler ultrasound imaging to determine tendon thickness, presence of degeneration and neovascularization. The presence of swelling and tenderness was determined, and Achilles tendon pain was rated on three visual analogue scales (VAS) (pain during exercise, pain at rest, pain during daily activities) as well as on the VISA‐A scale. Tendon symptoms were not related to the presence of neovascularization. There was a low prevalence of Achilles tendinopathy, tenderness, and neovascularization in this population. Neovascularization was seen in both a painful and a non‐painful tendon.
IMAGING DIAGNOSIS—URINARY OBSTRUCTION SECONDARY TO PROSTATIC LYMPHOMA IN A YOUNG DOG
Authors: WINTER MATTHEW D. , LOCKE JENNIFER E. , PENNINCK DOMINIQUE G.
Published: November 2006

A 3‐year old, intact male Doberman pinscher was examined at the Foster Hospital for Small Animals at Tufts University for a 2‐week history of stranguria, dyschezia, and weight loss. Ultrasonographically, there was bilateral hydronephrosis, right‐sided hydroureter, hepatosplenomegaly, symmetric mild prostatomegaly, and a distended urinary bladder. Fine needle aspirates and biopsies of the prostate yielded a diagnosis of lymphoma. Lymphoma is a rare cause of prostatomegaly in the dog. Sonographic findings are nonspecific; fine needle aspirates or biopsies are needed to ascertain the diagnosis.
Scheduling the Party Conventions
Authors: ALTSCHULER BRUCE E.
Published: November 2006

Although traditionally the party out of power holds its presidential nominating convention before the incumbent party, there has been little analysis of the origins of this tradition. After reviewing the history of conventions to study when and why this tradition began, this research note then looks at recent changes to see whether it still serves its purpose. Because of these changes, particularly the reformed rules of campaign financing, I conclude that the tradition of scheduling out party conventions first has significantly harmed challengers to the incumbent party and changes are necessary.
The Contemporary Presidency: “Going Local” to Reform Social Security
Authors: ESHBAUGH‐SOHA MATTHEW , PEAKE JEFFREY S.
Published: November 2006

Presidents have turned increasingly to local media to build support for their policy initiatives, as evidenced by President George W. Bush's recent and unprecedented efforts to reform Social Security. In this article, we examine local newspaper coverage of the president's reform tour and the success he had “going local.” We find that local newspapers tended to be positive, but mostly descriptive, in their coverage of the president's reform tour. Local news stories not only differ from national coverage but also from each other: a newspaper's size and location affect the content of local news coverage of the presidency. We conclude with an assessment of the usefulness of a “going local” governing strategy in light of these findings.
Association of Risk Factors and Medical Comorbidities with Male Sexual Dysfunctions
Authors: El-Sakka Ahmed I.
Published: November 2006

Introduction

Conventionally, little attention has been given to the association of risk factors and medical comorbidities with male sexual dysfunctions. Although that association has been recently shown in many studies, it is not yet well investigated in the Saudi community.

Aim

To investigate the association of risk factors and medical comorbidities with male sexual dysfunctions in the Saudi community.

Methods

A total of 1,464 male patients with a clinical diagnosis of sexual dysfunctions were enrolled in this study. All patients were assessed for sexual functions using different domains of the International Index for Erectile Function. Patients were also interviewed for sociodemographic data, medical history, and risk factors for erectile dysfunction (ED). Routine laboratory investigations, plus total testosterone and prolactin assessments, were offered to all patients. Assessments of penile vasculature using Doppler ultrasonography and rigidometer were performed.

Results

A total of 92.6% of the patients had ED, 50.8% had premature ejaculation (PE), and 7.6% had low sexual desire. There was a significant association between increased age and increased severity of ED. In total, 20% had psychogenic cause, whereas 80% had organic cause of ED. Of the patients, 10.2% had mild, 41% had moderate, and 48.8% had severe ED. There were significant associations between endocrinopathy and both low sexual desire and PE (P <0.05). There were significant associations between increased severity of ED and presence of diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, and psychological disorders. There were significant associations between increased severity of ED and increased values of end diastolic velocity, decreased values of peak systolic velocity, resistive index, rigidometer, and decreased response to intracavernosal injection (P <0.001).

Conclusion

This study provides an assessment of the association of risk factors and medical comorbidities with male sexual dysfunctions in ambulatory service in this community.
Dorsal Vein Injuries Observed During Penile Exploration for Suspected Penile Fracture
Authors: Bar-Yosef Yuval , Greenstein Alexander , Beri Avi , Lidawi Ghalib , Matzkin Haim , Chen Juza
Published: November 2006

Introduction

Penile fracture is a rare injury, bearing potential impairment of erectile function if not treated. Patients with clinical presentation of a penile fracture commonly undergo early surgical exploration with the intention to repair a tunica albuginea tear.

Aim

We present a group of men who presented with a penile hematoma following trauma to the erect penis. Exploration revealed an intact tunica albuginea and a dorsal vein tear.

Methods

Eighteen men (mean age 38 years, range 20–55) presented with suspected penile fracture during an 8-year period. One man presented twice. Two of the patients were managed expectantly and the remaining 16 patients underwent 17 immediate surgical explorations. Explorations were performed under general anesthesia, using a circumferential subcoronal incision and degloving of the penile skin. The tunica albuginea of both penile sides as well as the penile urethra were examined for injuries.

Main Outcome Measures

Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for etiology, symptoms, signs of physical examination, and information on findings of surgical exploration. Data on erectile function, medical treatment for erectile dysfunction, and penile curvature were obtained during follow-up.

Results

In nine of the 17 procedures the tunica albuginea was intact and the only pathological finding was a ruptured dorsal vein. One procedure was negative for both tunical and vascular injury. A tunical tear was detected in the remaining seven procedures. At a mean follow-up of 40 months (range 4–91), five patients required medical treatment for erectile dysfunction, including the two who were managed expectantly, two with a tunical tear, and one with a venous tear.

Conclusions

Dorsal vein tears may mimic penile fracture. Suggestive findings following trauma to the erect penis prompted exploration for suspected tunica albuginea tear. In less than half of the men was the diagnosis of penile fracture established and treated at surgery.
Corporoscopic Excavation of the Fibrosed Corpora Cavernosa for Penile Prosethesis Implantation: Optical Corporotomy and Trans-Corporeal Resection, Shaeer’s Technique
Authors: Shaeer Osama , Shaeer Ahmed
Published: November 2006

Introduction

Implantation of a penile prosthesis in cases of neglected or resistant ischemic priapism, or delayed re-implantation following prosthesis infection and extraction, is usually a difficult and risky procedure due to fibrosis of the corpora cavernosa. Among the common complications are perforation of the urethra, tunica albuginea, and infection. The complications are usually due to the use of blind force against resistance.

Aim

We propose the techniques of Trans-Corporeal Resection and Optical Corporotomy as adjuvant measures for excavating the fibrosed corpora cavernosa under vision, without the use of force against resistance.

Methods

Six patients with diffuse fibrosis of the corpora cavernosa were operated on. The instruments and technique are the same as for optical urethrotomy and transurethral resection. Optical Corporotomy was started with, where the corpora are incised from within. After establishment of a satisfactory passage, Trans-Corporeal Resection followed to scrape the fibrous tissue. Implantation of penile prosthesis was completed as usual. The procedure was performed through 1.5 cm incision in the tunica albuginea.

Main Outcome Measures

Length, girth, and straightness in the erect position, as well as the incidence of complications.

Results

Operative time was an average of 90 minutes. No difficulty was encountered during the procedure. No complications were noted through 1 year of follow-up.

Conclusion

Optical Corporotomy and Trans-Corporeal Resection allow for force-free, visually monitored excavation of the fibrosed corpora cavernosa, aiming at safer penile prosthesis implantation.
Biofilm Formation byStreptococcus pneumoniae: Role of Choline, Extracellular DNA, and Capsular Polysaccharide in Microbial Accretion
Authors: Moscoso Miriam , García Ernesto , López Rubens
Published: November 2006

Streptococcus pneumoniaecolonizes the human upper respiratory tract, and this asymptomatic colonization is known to precede pneumococcal disease. In this report, chemically defined and semisynthetic media were used to identify the initial steps of biofilm formation by pneumococcus during growth on abiotic surfaces such as polystyrene or glass. Unencapsulated pneumococci adhered to abiotic surfaces and formed a three-dimensional structure about 25 μm deep, as observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy and low-temperature scanning electron microscopy. Choline residues of cell wall teichoic acids were found to play a fundamental role in pneumococcal biofilm development. The role in biofilm formation of choline-binding proteins, which anchor to the teichoic acids of the cell envelope, was determined using unambiguously characterized mutants. The results showed that LytA amidase, LytC lysozyme, LytB glucosaminidase, CbpA adhesin, PcpA putative adhesin, and PspA (pneumococcal surface protein A) mutants had a decreased capacity to form biofilms, whereas no such reduction was observed in Pce phosphocholinesterase or CbpD putative amidase mutants. Moreover, encapsulated, clinical pneumococcal isolates were impaired in their capacity to form biofilms. In addition, a role for extracellular DNA and proteins in the establishment ofS. pneumoniaebiofilms was demonstrated. Taken together, these observations provide information on conditions that favor the sessile mode of growth byS. pneumoniae. The experimental approach described here should facilitate the study of bacterial genes that are required for biofilm formation. Those results, in turn, may provide insight into strategies to prevent pneumococcal colonization of its human host.