bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MUC2, MUC5AC and MUC5B in the mucus of a patient with pseudomyxoma peritonei: Biochemical and immunohistochemical study
Authors: Mall Anwar S. , Chirwa Nthato , Govender Dhirendra , Lotz Zoe , Tyler Marilyn , Rodrigues Jerry , Kahn Delawir , Goldberg Paul
Published: July 2007

A 58‐year‐old man with a 1 year history of progressive abdominal distension underwent a laparotomy for pseudomyxoma peritonei. The mucin was identified and characterized in the present study. Approximately 6 L of crude mucus in the sol (highly viscous) and gel (semisolid) phases was obtained from the patient's peritoneal cavity. The sol material was briefly homogenized followed by slow stirring at dilutions of up to 1:10 with 6 mol/L guanidinium chloride and proteolytic inhibitors for periods of up to 48 h. Preparative and analytical gel filtration on Sepharose 2B showed some PAS‐positive material eluting in the void volume accompanied by equal or larger amounts of protein in the void and included volumes of the columns. Sodium dodecylsulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of purified mucin on a 4–20% gradient gel showed PAS‐positive material on the top of the running gel and a distinct smaller‐sized species of mucin of higher electrophoretic mobility with background material in between the large and small mucin. Western blot (confirmed by immunohistochemical analysis) after agarose gel electrophoresis showed the presence of MUC2, MUC5AC and MUC5B in the mucus. There was no MUC1, MUC1core or MUC6 in the tissue. Histopathological examination confirmed a mucinous appendicular adenocarcinoma. Histology showed the mucin to be predominantly of the sulfated and non‐sulfated acidic type. Serine, threonine and proline comprised 21.6% of the total amino acid composition of the sample. The viscous nature of the material is due to the presence of three gel‐forming mucins and possibly to its high content of protein.
Long‐term Results of Adjuvant Irradiation or Surveillance in Stage I Testicular Seminoma
Authors: Miki Tsuneharu , Nonomura Norio , Saiki Shigeru , Kotake Toshihiko
Published: July 2007

Background: Excellent treatment results are obtained for stage I testicular seminoma treated with orchiectomy and prophylactic radiotherapy. In patients with stage I nonseminomatous testicular tumors, surveillance alone is successful, however, this treatment option for stage I testicular seminomas is controversial. There have been few reports of long‐term follow‐up of surveillance alone for patients with stage I testicular seminoma.

Methods: To assess the appropriateness of this treatment option, a retrospective survey of stage I testicular seminoma was undertaken. Twenty‐seven patients who underwent prophylactic radiation therapy (RT group) and 41 patients followed only by surveillance (S group) after high orchiectomy were evaluated. Their follow‐up consisted of frequent clinical examinations, abdominal CT scans, chest x‐rays and serum tumor markers.

Results: In the RT group, with a median follow‐up period of 15 years, 1 patient (3.6%) had a recurrence in the lung at 4 months after orchiectomy and died, but the remaining 26 are alive with no evidence of disease (NED). In the S group, with a median follow‐up period of 7.3 years, 5 (12.2%) relapsed in the retroperitoneal lymph nodes, but all are alive with NED following chemotherapy. The remaining 36 are all alive without recurrence (follow‐up period, 38 to 132 months). Although the relapse rate in the S group was relatively higher than in the RT group, there was no significant difference between the 2 groups.

Conclusion: If a frequent follow‐up protocol is administered and followed by the patient, surveillance alone may be a recommended management for stage I testicular seminoma.
A Prospective Comparative Trial of a Gonadotropin‐Releasing Hormone Analogue with Clomiphene Citrate for the Treatment of Oligoasthenozoospermia
Authors: Matsumiya Kiyomi , Kitamura Masaya , Kishikawa Hidefumi , Kondoh Nobuyuki , Fujiwara Yoshitomo , Namiki Mikio , Okuyama Akihiko
Published: July 2007

Background: We undertook a prospective trial to compare the efficacy and adverse effects of a gonadotropin releasing‐hormone analogue (CnRHa) and clomiphene therapy for idiopathic normogonadotropic oligoasthenozoospermia (INOA).

Methods: Between January and December 1995, 44 newly‐diagnosed INOA patients were randomly allocated to treatment with GnRHa or clomiphene citrate. Efficacy was assessed by measuring changes in semen parameters prior to and after 3 months of treatment. Twenty‐three INOA patients underwent GnRHa therapy with 15 μg of diluted buserelin acetate given once a day intranasally, and 21 INOA patients were treated with 50 μg of clomiphene citrate daily by oral administration.

Results: The mean sperm density in the GnRHa group increased from 1 6.1 times 106/mL to 26.9 times 106/ml(P < 0.05), while the mean sperm density did not change significantly in the group treated with clomiphene. Similarly, the mean sperm motility increased from 35.9% to 43.9% in the GnRHa group (P < 0.05), but did not significantly change in the clomiphene group. No adverse effects were observed in either group.

Conclusion: This GnRHa treatment protocol can be administered as an outpatient and is hoped to benefit INOA patients.
Antitumor Effect of Irinotecan Hydrochloride (CPT‐11) on Human Renal Tumors Heterotransplanted in Nude Mice
Authors: Miki Tsuneharu , Nonomura Norio , Takaha Natsuki , Nishimura Kazuo , Kojitna Yasuyuki , Sawada Masumi , Okuyama Akihiko
Published: July 2007

Background: There has been a paucity of antitumor drugs that are active against renal tumors. Irinotecan hydrochloride (CPT‐11), a DNA topoisomerase type 1 inhibitor, has demonstrated antitumor activity against human tumors, however, no antitumor effect of CPT‐11 on renal tumors has been reported. The antitumor effect of CPT‐11 was investigated on 2 human renal tumors (OUR‐10 and OUR‐20) heterotransplanted into nude mice.

Methods: Tumor‐bearing nude mice were given daily intraperitoneal injections of multiple anticancer drugs suspended in 0.2 ml_ of phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) 3 times at 3‐day intervals. Control mice were injected with 0.2 mL of PBS. The antitumor effects were evaluated by calculating the T/C ratio (treated tumors/controls) of the tumor volume.

Results: Among the 10 anticancer drugs tested, 50 mg/kg of CPT‐11 showed an active antitumor effect on OUR‐20 (T/C ratio 34). However, all drugs tested on OUR‐10 failed to show antitumor activity. Conclusion: Since CPT‐11 was effective in 1 of 2 renal tumors examined without severe toxicity, this drug could be a candidate for chemotherapy of renal cell carcinoma.
Primary Localized Amyloidosis of the Ureter
Authors: Hayashi Tetsuo , Kojima Shin‐ichi , Sekine Hideaki , Mizuguchi Kunio
Published: July 2007

Localized amyloidosis of the ureter is a relatively rare condition. We report a case of primary localized ureteral amyloidosis. A 66‐year‐old man was referred to our hospital complaining of right flank pain and gross hematuria. From the right hydronephrosis and irregular margin of the right lower ureter seen on the anterograde pyelography, we could not rule out a right ureteral malignancy. Total nephroureterectomy was performed and histologic examination showed ureteral amyloidosis. Amyloid was classified immunohistochemically as Aλ type. After all examinations for secondary or systemic amyloidosis were negative, primary localized amyloidosis of the ureter was confirmed.
Renal Transplantation into Augmented Bladders
Authors: Yamazaki Yuichiro , Tanabe Kazunari , Ota Toshiyuki , Ito Katsumi , Toma Hiroshi
Published: July 2007

Background: Urinary bladder augmentation is gaining popularity for the treatment of dysfunctional bladders in renal transplant patients. Although reported cases of adult and pediatric transplants into the augmented bladder have been favorable, the potential risk of urinary tract infection and graft failure under immunosuppression is still disputable. We report our experiences with 4 patients who underwent renal transplantation into an augmented bladder.

Methods: Between 1971 and 1996, 1275 renal transplants were performed at our institution. Of these transplants, 4 patients underwent renal transplantation into an augmented urinary bladder. Augmentation cystoplasty was performed before transplantation in 3 patients and 7 years after transplantation in the other patient. The bladder was augmented with an ileal segment in 3 patients and a ureter in the fourth patient. Craft function was assessed by the serum creatinine level. Fluorocystometrograms were performed in all patients at fixed intervals.

Results: Posttransplant renal function was satisfactory overall and no patient exhibited proteinuria. All patients except 1 acquired a large capacity low pressure bladder and remained continent with clean intermittent catheterization. One patient who underwent ureterocystoplasty is still incontinent because of his relatively small bladder capacity. Posttransplant pyelonephritis was documented in 3 patients during the follow‐up period, but no other complications were observed.

Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that renal transplantation into extensively reconstructed bladders can be safely performed with good success. Although urinary tract infection is a major consideration, we recommend pretransplant reconstruction not only to preserve graft function, but also to achieve urinary continence.
Prospective Randomized Comparative Study of Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Urethrocystoscopy and Urethrocystography
Authors: Tsugawa Masaya , Monden Kohichi , Nasu Yoshitsugu , Kumon Hiromi , Ohmori Hiroyuki
Published: July 2007

Background: There has been a great deal of discussion regarding the necessity of the prophylactic use of antibiotics in transurethral procedures. In order to clarify this complicated issue, a randomized prospective study was performed for patients undergoing urethrocystoscopy or urethrocystography.

Patients and Methods: Patients who underwent urethrocystoscopy or urethrocystography and did not have pyuria and bacteriuria were included and divided randomly into 2 groups, either receiving a prophylactic antibiotic or no antibiotic. For antibiotic prophylaxis, 200 mg of sparfloxacin or fleroxacin were administered within a 1‐hour period before the urethrocystoscopic or urethrocystographic examination, respectively. Analyses were performed on patients who were seen within 1 month after the examination, using the appearance of pyuria, bacteriuria, or a febrile infection as the endpoint.

Results: Of47 patients undergoing urethrocystoscopy, 45 were eligible for analysis, and of these, sparfloxacin was administered to 21 patients. Thirty‐three of 37 patients undergoing urethrocystography were eligible for analysis with fleroxacin administered to 16 patients. There were no significant differences in the background factors between the 2 groups undergoing either transurethral examination. None of the patients in either group developed pyuria, bacteriuria or a febrile infection after the examination.

Conclusions: Prophylactic administration of antibiotics is not necessarily essential in urethrocystoscopy or urethrocystography in patients with sterile urine.
Malignant Neoplasm in Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Kishikawa Hidefumi , Ichikawa Yasuji , Yazawa Koji , Hanafusa Touru , Fukunishi Takanobu , Ebisui Chikara , Okuyama Akihiko , Nagano Shunsuke
Published: July 2007

Background: The kidney recipient is at a higher risk for cancer than is the general population, although the incidence of neoplasms in general is considered lower in Japan than in Western countries. The cause of this increased risk associated with either transplantation or geography has not yet been established.

Method: The incidences and sites of malignant neoplasms were analyzed in 285 kidney recipients, who had been followed up for 3007 patient‐years. The relationship between immunosuppressive states, the numbers of CD4‐positive T lymphocytes, and the presence of malignant neoplasms was studied retrospectively.

Results: Eighteen malignant neoplasms were found in 1 7 of the 285 patients (6%). The malignancies developed in these patients an average of 1 26.5 months aftertransplantation. The incidencewasonly3.9% at 1 0 years, increasing to1 3.9% at 20 years. No difference in the time‐course incidence was found between azathioprine‐based and cyclosporin‐based immunosuppressive regimens. The malignancies developed in the digestive organs in more than half of the patients, and were mainly in the liver, colon and rectum, and stomach, with a relatively low incidence of skin cancer and lymphoma. There was only one case of Epstein‐Barr virus genome found in 5 specimens that were tested. Concerning the immunosuppressive state, CD4‐positive T lymphocyte counts were not related directly with malignancies in our series.

Conclusion: The cumulative incidence of malignancy increased markedly in the second posttransplant decade. The site of cancers in kidney recipients mirrors that of general Japanese malignancies. Our results revealed neither the cause nor predictor for malignancies in kidney transplant patients.
Surveillance Study for Clinical Stage I Testicular Seminomas and Nonseminomatous Germ Cell Tumors
Authors: Suzuki Ken‐ichi , Orikasa Seiichi , Hoshi Senji , Yoshikawa Kazuyuki , Imai Yoshitada , Aizawa Masataka , Nishimura Yousuke , Okada Yasuhiro , Ohnuma Tetsutaro , Ogata Yukihiko
Published: July 2007

Background: Optimal therapy for stage I testicular tumors is still controversial. This study evaluated the efficacy of a surveillance policy for patients with testicular stage I seminomas and nonseminomatous germ cell tumors (NSGCT).

Methods: From 1984 to 1996, 24 patients with stage I semi noma and 20 with stage I NSGCT were fol lowed after radical orchiectomy with tumor markers and imaging studies. All patients were followed for at least 2 years except for those who recurred within 2 years. Recurrent patients were treated with cisplatin‐based chemotherapy.

Results: The median follow‐up periods for seminoma and NSGCT patients were 41 and 54 months, respectively. Recurrences were detected in 2 seminoma (8.3%) and 10 NSGCT (50%) patients. Eleven of the 1 2 recurrent patients (92%) were detected within 2 years after orchiectomy. The seminoma patients both recurred in the retroperitoneal lymph nodes, while 70% of the NSGCT patients recurred in the lung and/or retroperitoneal lymph nodes. The recurrent seminoma patients were treated with chemotherapy and are alive without disease for 1 7 and 24 months after orchiectomy. One NSGCT patient died of cancer, but the other 9 recurrent NSGCT patients are alive without disease at 25 to 11 3 months after orchiectomy.

Conclusions: Surveillance alone is reliable for monitoring patients with stage I testicular seminoma and NSGCT. The majority of recurrences occurred within 2 years, necessitating intensive follow‐up for 3 years. As the lung metastatic rates in NSGCT patients were high, a more accurate assessment for lung metastasis is desirable in these patients.
Laparoscopy‐Assisted Radical Nephrectomy for Renal Cell Carcinoma in Patients on Long‐term Hemodialysis: Report of 2 Patients
Authors: Watanabe Tetsuya , Suzuki Kazuo , Kageyama Shinji , Ushiyama Tomomi , Fujita Kimio , Maruyama Yukitaka
Published: July 2007

We successfully performed a laparoscopy‐assisted radical nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma in 2 patients on long‐term hemodialysis. Both tumors were incidentally discovered on screening by abdominal CT scanning. There were no complications during the operation or in the postoperative period, and both patients resumed normal activities by the fifth postoperative day. A laparoscopic‐assisted radical nephrectomy may be useful for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma in hemodialysis patients.
Ureterocolic Fistula Secondary to Colonic Diverticulitis
Authors: Maeda Yuji , Nakashima Shinichi , Misaki Toshimitsu
Published: July 2007

We describe the case of a 45‐year‐old woman with a ureterocolic fistula caused by colonic diverticulitis. She had a 10‐year history of intermittent left flank pain that had not been treated. The fistulous tract between the left ureter and sigmoid colon was confirmed by retrograde urography and a barium enema. A nephroureterectomy was successfully performed.
Comparative Study between Corpus Cavernosum‐Electromyography Findings and Electron Microscopy of Cavernosal Muscle Biopsies in Erectile Dysfunction Patients
Authors: Başar M. Murat , Sargon Mustafa F. , Basar Halil , Atan Ali , Ak Fikri , ÇElik H. Hamdi , Başar Ruhgün , Akalin Zuhal
Published: July 2007

Background: Biopsy and electrical activity recordings of the corpus cavernosum are 2 new diagnostic methods for the evaluation of impotent men. We evaluated the corpus cavernosum ultrastructure and electromyography (EMG) recordings from patients with erectile dysfunction.

Methods: Twenty erectile dysfunction patients with veno‐occlusive dysfunction underwent a detailed history, physical examination, biochemical tests, hormonal analysis, injection of an intracavernous vasoactive agent (60 mg papaverine‐HCI), color penile Doppler ultrasonography, cavernosometry/ cavernosography and corpus cavernosum electromyography (CC‐EMG). Thirteen patients underwent total vein ligation and 7 had penile prosthesis implantations. Tissue samples were obtained during surgery from both corpora cavernosa and examined by transmission electron microscopy. Control corporal tissue samples were taken from 3 cadavers.

Results: In 15 patients, CC‐EMG recordings were 15.6 ± 0.65 μV in the flaccid state, which decreased in 13 patients after papaverine (5.61 ± 0.25 μV; P < 0.001). Five patients with diabetes mellitus had low amplitudes in the flaccid state (5.26 ± 0.45 μV), which did not vary significantly after a papaverine injection (4.99 |pL 0.75 μV). The pathology of the corpus cavernosum biopsy specimens revealed a smooth muscle cell thickened basal membrane, dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum, and increased numbers of fibroblasts, but ultrastructurally normal endothelial cells lining the and sinusoids. There was no difference between samples from diabetic or nondiabetic patients, or from either side of the corpora cavernosa. The only pathologic change observed in the controls was mitochondrial swelling.

Conclusion: CC‐EMG is less invasive and a valuable method in patients with erectile dysfunction, whereas no specific findings were observed from penile biopsy specimens.
Establishment and Characterization of a New Human Testicular Seminoma Cell Line, JKT‐1
Authors: Kinugawa Keigo , Hyodo Fuminori , Matsuki Takakazu , Jo Yoshimasa , Furukawa Yoji , Ueki Ayako , Tanaka Hiroyoshi
Published: July 2007

Background: A new human testicular cancer cell line (JKT‐1) was established, successfully transplanted into nude mice, and has been maintained for over 2 years. We examined the biological characteristics of JKT‐1 cells.

Methods: The original material for JKT‐1 was derived from a primary lesion of a left testicular seminoma (pure, typical‐type) from a 40‐year‐old male. The tumor tissue was minced and cultured according to the explant culture method. The cells grew as a monolayer with a doubling time of 28.5 hours.

Results: JKT‐1 produced neither alpha‐fetoprotein or β‐human chorionic gonadotropin, but showed strong immunoreactivities for vimentin and placental alkaline phosphatase. A chromosomal analysis revealed a modal number of 66 with loss of the Y chromosome. Morphologically, JKT‐1 cells have a pleomorphic polygonal shape, an increase in the nuclear/cytoplasm ratio, and poor development of organelle and desmosome‐like cell‐cell junctions. JKT‐1 cells were subcutaneously transplanted into the backs of 6‐week‐old nude mice, and grew classical seminomatous tissue.

Conclusion: This report profiled a seminoma cell line established for both in vitro and in vivo experimental systems. Future studies are planned to investigate germ cells using this seminoma line.
Transitional Cell Carcinoma in the Fossa Navicularis of the Male Urethra: A Case Report
Authors: Ono Yoshihiro , Matsumoto Kazuhisa , Kosaku Nozomu , Nakazato Haruki , Yamanaka Hidetoshi
Published: July 2007

We report a case of transitional cell carcinoma arising in the fossa navicularis of the male urethra. The patient was 87‐years‐old and noticed intermittent urethral bleeding. We could see a tumor protruding from the urethral meatus, removed it successfully, and irradiated the base of the tumor with Nd:YAG laser. The histologic finding was grade 2 transitional cell carcinoma, pTa. There was no other tumor in the urinary bladder or upper urinary tract. The postoperative course was uneventful and the patient showed no evidence of disease for 4 months after treatment but died from other causes.
Functional analysis of cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter: re‐evaluation of the role of subdomains B5, B4 and B2 in promoter activity
Authors: Bhullar Simran , Datta Sudipta , Advani Sonia , Chakravarthy Suma , Gautam Taru , Pental Deepak , Burma Pradeep Kumar
Published: July 2007

The cauliflower mosaic virus 35S (35S) promoter is used extensively for transgene expression in plants. The promoter has been delineated into different subdomains based on deletion analysis and gain‐of‐function studies. However, cis‐elements important for promoter activity have been identified only in the domains B1 (as‐2 element), A1 (as‐1 element) and minimal promoter (TATA box). No cis‐elements have been described in subdomains B2–B5, although these are reported to be important for the overall activity of the 35S promoter. We have re‐evaluated the contribution of three of these subdomains, namely B5, B4 and B2, to 35S promoter activity by developing several modified promoters. The analysis of β‐glucuronidase gene expression driven by the modified promoters in different tissues of primary transgenic tobacco lines, as well as in seedlings of the T1 generation, revealed new facets about the functional organization of the 35S promoter. This study suggests that: (i) the 35S promoter truncated up to –301 functions in a similar manner to the –343 (full‐length) 35S promoter; (ii) the Dof core and I‐box core observed in the subdomain B4 are important for 35S promoter activity; and (iii) the subdomain B2 is essential for maintaining an appropriate distance between the proximal and distal regions of the 35S promoter. These observations will aid in the development of functional synthetic 35S promoters with decreased sequence homology. Such promoters can be used to drive multiple transgenes without evoking promoter homology‐based gene silencing when attempting gene stacking.
Exploring the influence of gender and gaming competence on attitudes towards using instructional games
Authors: Bonanno Philip , Kommers P. A. M.
Published: July 2007

Digital games are evolving beyond the solitary context into a ubiquitous, social and collaborative experience. Addressing beliefs about technology and attitudes towards technology‐mediated processes is fundamental to the successful implementation of any innovation. In collaborative gaming, attitude towards gaming influences learners' interactions along the domain, technology and community dimensions. Building on various seminal works, an instrument was developed for measuring four components of attitude towards gaming—affective components, perceived control, perceived usefulness and behavioural components. The survey, including 21 statements each scored on a 5‐point Likert scale, was used with a sample of college students to investigate the influence of gender and gaming competence on attitude towards gaming. The pedagogical implications of the different attitude components are discussed in relation to game design and to the different interactions triggered by the gaming context.
US Interests, British Acquiescence and the Invasion of Cyprus
Authors: Mallinson William
Published: July 2007

An extrapolation, analysis and evaluation of papers recently released by the British government suggest that, backstage, the British and US governments condoned Turkish military objectives in Cyprus, at least to the extent of agreeing to take no serious action to dissuade Turkey from invading. The papers suggest British government foreknowledge of Turkey's objectives; Henry Kissinger's express delaying tactics to afford Turkey more time to consolidate its invasion; French anger at the Foreign Office for not providing them with information; British concern about a future Greek government turning to the French for support; and the British government's desire to give up its military territories in Cyprus. Overall, the picture which emerges is that the Wilson government gave in to Henry Kissinger's policies. It appears clear that Britain, despite its responsibilities and initial misgivings about Turkey's behaviour, gave the lead to the US.
Smoking in Movies, Implicit Associations of Smoking With the Self, and Intentions to Smoke
Authors: Dal Cin Sonya , Gibson Bryan , Zanna Mark P. , Shumate Roberta , Fong Geoffrey T.
Published: July 2007

We examined whether identifying with a film character who smokes increases implicit associations of the self with smoking. Undergraduate men were randomly assigned to view film clips in which the male protagonist either smoked or did not smoke. We measured subsequent levels of self-smoking associations using a reaction time task, as well as self-reported beliefs about smoking and smokers. Greater identification with the smoking protagonist predicted stronger implicit associations between the self and smoking (for both smokers and nonsmokers) and increased intention to smoke (among the smokers). Stronger implicit self-smoking associations uniquely predicted increases in smokers' intentions to smoke, over and above the effects of explicit beliefs about smoking. The results provide evidence that exposure to smoking in movies is causally related to changes in smoking-related thoughts, that identification with protagonists is an important feature of narrative influence, and that implicit measures may be useful in predicting deliberative behavior.
Attribution of Beliefs by 13-Month-Old Infants
Authors: Surian Luca , Caldi Stefania , Sperber Dan
Published: July 2007

In two experiments, we investigated whether 13-month-old infants expect agents to behave in a way that is consistent with information to which they have been exposed. Infants watched animations in which an animal was either provided information or prevented from gathering information about the actual location of an object. The animal then searched successfully or failed to retrieve the object. Infants' looking times suggest that they expected searches to be effective when—and only when—the agent had had access to the relevant information. This result supports the view that infants possess an incipient meta-representational ability that permits them to attribute beliefs to agents. We discuss the viability of more conservative explanations and the relation between this early ability and later forms of theory of mind that appear only after children have become experienced verbal communicators.
The Unexpected Empirical Consensus Among Consensus Methods
Authors: Regenwetter Michel , Kim Aeri , Kantor Arthur , Ho Moon-Ho R.
Published: July 2007

In economics and political science, the theoretical literature on social choice routinely highlights worst-case scenarios and emphasizes the nonexistence of a universally best voting method. Behavioral social choice is grounded in psychology and tackles consensus methods descriptively and empirically. We analyzed four elections of the American Psychological Association using a state-of-the-art multimodel, multimethod approach. These elections provide rare access to (likely sincere) preferences of large numbers of decision makers over five choice alternatives. We determined the outcomes according to three classical social choice procedures: Condorcet, Borda, and plurality. Although the literature routinely depicts these procedures as irreconcilable, we found strong statistical support for an unexpected degree of empirical consensus among them in these elections. Our empirical findings stand in contrast to two centuries of pessimistic thought experiments and computer simulations in social choice theory and demonstrate the need for more systematic descriptive and empirical research on social choice than exists to date.
Choosing Between Adaptive Agents
Authors: Kareev Yaakov , Avrahami Judith
Published: July 2007

Even with ample time and opportunity to use extensive data, people often make do with small samples, which increases their risk of making the wrong decision. A theoretical analysis indicates, however, that when the decision involves continually selecting among competing, adaptive agents who are eager to be selected, an error-prone evaluation may be beneficial to the decision maker. In this case, the chance of an error can motivate competitors to exert greater effort, improving their level of performance—which is the prime concern of the decision maker. This theoretical argument was tested empirically by comparing the effects of two levels of scrutiny of performance. Results show that minimal scrutiny can indeed lead to better performance than full scrutiny, and that the effect is conditional on a bridgeable difference between the competitors. We conclude by pointing out that small-sample-based, error-prone decisions may also maintain competition and diversity in the environment.
Helicobacter pylori Infection in Five Inpatient Units for People with Intellectual Disability and Psychiatric Disorder
Authors: Clarke David , Vemuri Murali , Gunatilake Deepthi , Tewari Sidhartha
Published: July 2007

Background  A high prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection has been reported among people with intellectual disability, especially those residing in hospital and similar settings. Surveys of inpatients have found unusually high rates of gastrointestinal malignancy, to which H. pylori infection predisposes.

Methods  Helicobacter pylori antibody testing was arranged for all residents of five inpatient units for people with intellectual disability and challenging behaviour or psychiatric disorder. Eradication triple therapy was prescribed for those people with a positive result. 13C urea breath testing was attempted after eradication therapy.

Results  Thirty‐seven residents were identified. It was possible to obtain blood for H. pylori antibody testing for 36 people. Twenty‐two (59%) had a positive result. Dividing the people studied according to length of stay in hospital showed that 4 of the 18 people resident in hospital for <4 years (22%) had a positive antibody test, compared with 16 of the 19 people resident in hospital for ≥4 years (84%; χ2 = 14.6; P < 0.001). Treatment led to eradication of H. pylori infection in 11 of the 12 people who were able to cooperate with testing.

Conclusions  Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for H. pylori infection among people with intellectual disability who have a history of institutional care or prolonged hospital admission, especially those who have spent more than 4 years in such settings. Testing for H. pylori antibodies is well tolerated. Eradication therapy offers many health benefits, including a reduction of the risk for stomach malignancies.
The Distribution of Scaled Scores and Possible Floor Effects on the WISC‐III and WAIS‐III
Authors: Whitaker Simon , Wood Christopher
Published: July 2007

Objective  It has been suggested that, as the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale‐Third Edition (WAIS‐III) and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children‐Third Edition (WISC‐III) give a scaled score of one even if a client scores a raw score of zero, these assessments may have a hidden floor effect at low IQ levels. The study looked for indications of this in a sample of assessments that had been given for clinical and diagnostic reasons.

Design  The degree to which a hidden floor effect could be present was assessed by looking at the proportion of scaled scores of one in IQ bands: 50–59, 60–69 and 70 plus and by plotting the distribution of scaled scores in these bands for both the WISC‐III and WAIS‐III.

Method  Fifty WISC‐III and 49 WAIS‐III assessments were obtained from records and analysed.

Results  The distribution of scaled scores in the WAIS‐III was approximately normal with very few scale scores of one, suggesting that a hidden floor effect would only be a potential problem for IQs in the 40s and 50s. The WISC‐III had a skewed distribution of scaled scores with more scaled scores of one than any other scaled score. Scaled scores of one were shown in all IQ levels up to 70 plus.

Conclusions  There is potentially a significant floor effect on the WAIS‐III at IQs in the 40s and 50s and on the WISC‐III up to IQs in the 70s. There are also indications that the WISC‐III has a much harder criterion for gaining a scaled score of two than the WAIS‐III, resulting in it producing lower IQs.
Benchmark Status in Fixed‐Income Asset Markets
Authors: Dunne Peter G. , Moore Michael J. , Portes Richard
Published: July 2007

Abstract:  What is a benchmark bond? We provide a formal theoretical treatment of this concept that relates endogenously determined benchmark status to price discovery, and we derive its implications. We describe an econometric technique for identifying the benchmark that is congruent with our theoretical framework. We apply this to the US corporate bond market and to the natural experiment that occurred when benchmark status was contested in the European sovereign bond markets. We show that France provides the benchmark at most maturities in the Euro‐denominated sovereign bond market and that IBM provides the benchmark in the US corporate bond market.
The nuclear localization of SET mediated by impα3/impβ attenuates its cytosolic toxicity in neurons
Authors: Qu Dianbo , Zhang Yi , Ma Jing , Guo Ke , Li Rong , Yin Yijun , Cao Xinmin , Park David S
Published: July 2007

SET is a multi‐functional protein in proliferating cells. Some of the proposed functions of SET suggest an important nuclear role. However, the nuclear import pathway of SET is also unknown and the function of SET in neurons is unclear. Presently, using cortical neurons, we report that the nuclear import of SET is mediated by an impα/impβ‐dependent pathway. Nuclear localization signal, 168KRSSQTQNKASRKR181, in SET interacts with impα3, which recruits impβ to form a ternary complex, resulting in efficient transportation of SET into nucleus. By in vitro nuclear import assay based on digitonin‐permeabilized neurons, we further demonstrated that the nuclear import of SET relies on Ran GTPase. We provide evidence that this nuclear localization of SET is important in neuronal survival. Under basal conditions, SET is predominately nuclear. However, upon death induced by genotoxic stress, endogenous SET decreases in the nucleus and increases in the cytoplasm. Consistent with a toxic role of SET in the cytoplasm, targeted expression of SET to the cytoplasm exacerbates death compared to wild type SET expression which is protective following DNA damage. Taken together, our results indicate that SET is imported into the nucleus through its association with impα3/impβ, and that localization of SET is important in regulation of neuronal death.
Different responses in bulk density and saturated hydraulic conductivity to soil deformation by logging machinery on a Ferralsol under native forest
Authors: Schack‐Kirchner H. , Fenner P. T. , Hildebrand E. E.
Published: July 2007

Ferralsols have high structural stability, although structural degradation has been observed to result from forest to tillage or pasture conversion. An experimental series of forest skidder passes in an east Amazonian natural forest was performed for testing the effects of mechanical stress during selective logging operations on a clay‐rich Ferralsol under both dry and wet soil conditions. Distinct ruts formed up to 25 cm depth only under wet conditions. After nine passes the initially very low surface bulk density of between 0.69 and 0.80 g cm−3 increased to 1.05 g cm−3 in the wet soil and 0.92 g cm−3 in the dry soil. Saturated hydraulic conductivities, initially >250 mm h−1, declined to a minimum of around 10 mm h−1 in the wet soil after the first pass, and in the dry soil more gradually after nine passes. The contrasting response of bulk density and saturated hydraulic conductivity is explained by exposure of subsoil material at the base of the ruts where macrostructure rapidly deteriorated under wet conditions. We attribute the resultant moderately high hydraulic conductivities to the formation of stable microaggregates with fine sand to coarse silt textures. We conclude that the topsoil macrostructure of Ferralsols is subject to similar deterioration to that of Luvisols in temperate zones. The stable microstructure prevents marked compaction and decrease in hydraulic conductivity under wetter and more plastic soil conditions. However, typical tropical storms may regularly exceed the infiltration capacity of the deformed soils. In the deeper ruts water may concentrate and cause surface run‐off, even in gently sloping areas. To avoid soil erosion, logging operations in sloping areas should therefore be restricted to dry soil conditions when rut formation is minimal.
Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation in Dogs: Review of the Literature
Authors: Bateman Shane W. , Mathews Karol A. , Abrams‐Ogg Anthony C.G.
Published: July 2007

Diagnosis of Disseminated Intravascular coagulation (DIC) is controversial in both human and veterinary medicine. This article reviews the available literature in human and veterinary medicine regarding the etiology, pathophysiology, and diagnosis of DIC with emphasis on the diagnosis of DIC in dogs. Controversy surrounding the diagnosis of DIC arises from the complex nature of the disease itself, in addition to the absence of a consensus strategy for laboratory testing. The available literature indicates that dogs diagnosed with DIC possessed various hemostatic function testing abnormalities, typically possessed an underlying disease that predisposed to DIC, but may or may not have had clinically identifiable hemorrhage or thrombosis. Additionally, the hemostatic function testing utilized in diagnosis is not uniform. Generalizations about the usefulness of individual assays or diagnostic strategies cannot be formulated because of the marked diversity of the types of cases studied, as well as the small number of cases reported in the literature. (Vet Emerg & Crit Care, 1998; 8: 29–45)
Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors in Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Clinical Approach
Authors: Lubarsky Lev , Coplan Neil L.
Published: July 2007

Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor therapy has been shown to be effective in treating patients across the spectrum of cardiac disease. Utility has been demonstrated for both prevention and treatment. This article reviews the data regarding angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor therapy in acute myocardial infarction, with emphasis on determining what is known regarding the mode of administration, optimal timing for initiation of treatment, and whether patients can be identified who are most likely to benefit from treatment.
Late‐Life Mortality in Older Jews Exposed to the Nazi Regime
Authors: Ayalon Liat , Covinsky Kenneth E.
Published: July 2007

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the mortality risk associated with exposure to the Nazi regime 6 decades after the war.

DESIGN: A national representative survey with 7‐year follow‐up data.

SETTING: A national representative survey of Israeli Jews aged 60 and older conducted in 1997 and 1998.

PARTICIPANTS: Four thousand one hundred seventy‐nine Israeli Jews participated in the study. To evaluate the mortality risk associated with exposure to the Nazi regime, Cox proportional‐hazards models were used, controlling for age, sex, education, religiousness, mental health, sleep disturbance, and baseline health.

MEASUREMENTS: A 7‐year follow‐up of all‐cause mortality.

RESULTS: Of the 4,179 Israeli Jews who participated in the study, 1,472 (35%) self‐identified as being exposed to the Nazi regime, defined as having lived in a country that was under the Nazi occupation or directly ruled by the Nazi regime. There was no statistically significant difference in mortality rate between those exposed to the Nazi regime (29.8%) and those who were not (27.5%) (adjusted hazard ratio=1.01, 95% confidence interval=0.88–1.15).

CONCLUSION: Israeli Jews who survived exposure to the Nazi regime are not at greater risk for death than the general population of Israeli Jews in later life. It is unclear whether these individuals represent a particularly resilient group or whether the risks of psychological trauma on mortality are mitigated over time.
Use of Diagnostic Tests for Presumed Lower Respiratory Tract Infection in Long‐Term Care Facilities
Authors: Mubareka Samira , Duckworth Heather , Cheang Mary , Loeb Mark , Simor Andrew , Liu Barbara , McNeil Shelley , Lewis David , Nicolle Lindsay E.
Published: July 2007

OBJECTIVES: To describe the current use of diagnostic tests for management of presumed lower respiratory tract infection in selected long‐term care facilities (LTCFs) in Canada and to correlate test use with facility and resident characteristics.

DESIGN: Prospective, 12‐month multicenter cohort study.

SETTING: A convenience sample of 21 LTCFs in Canada.

PARTICIPANTS: LTCF residents prescribed antimicrobial therapy for presumed lower respiratory tract infection.

MEASUREMENTS: Data collection included facility characteristics, patient demographics, level of care, comorbidities, clinical presentations, diagnostic testing, and outcomes. Diagnostic test use was correlated with facility access and resident and episode characteristics.

RESULTS: Forty‐two percent of 1,702 episodes had chest radiography obtained, 28.5% had pulse oximetry, 23.8% had peripheral leukocyte count, and 3.3% had sputum culture. On‐site access correlated with obtaining chest radiography (odds ratio (OR)=4.4; 95% confidence interval (CI)=3.2–6.0) and oximetry (OR=30.3; 95% CI=16.4–55.8). Analyses stratified according to facility found that greater test use was associated with greater premorbid functional impairment and more‐severe presentations. Advance directives, time to stabilization, and mortality did not correlate with test use. In multivariate analysis, significant variability between facilities for chest radiography and oximetry remained after incorporating differences in access to diagnostic testing and other facility or resident variables.

CONCLUSION: The use of diagnostic tests in the management of presumed lower respiratory tract infection in these Canadian LTCFs is highly variable. Access to diagnostic tests and severity of presentations correlate with test use but do not fully explain the variability in use in institutions.
Predictors of Clinical Outcome Following NIR Stent Implantation for Coronary Artery Disease: Analysis of the Results of the First International New Intravascular Rigid‐Flex Endovascular Stent Study (FINESS Trial)
Authors: FELD STEVEN , ALMAGOR YARON , VAUGHN WILLIAM K. , LEON. MARTIN B. , SERRUYS PATRICK W.
Published: July 2007

Background: Patient and procedural characteristics associated with major adverse cardiac events following balloon angioplasty have been identified. Factors predictive of angiographic restenosis following coronary stent implantation have been reported, although patient variables associated with adverse clinical outcome are not well defined. Hypothesis and Methods: To identify predictors of adverse clinical outcome following NIR stent implantation, clinical and angiographic characteristics of patients enrolled in the FINESS Trial were subjected to stepwise logistic regression analysis. From December 1995 through March 1996, NIR stent implantation was attempted in 255 patients (341 lesions) enrolled prospectively in a multicenter registry with broad entry criteria. Results: On stepwise logistic regression analysis, the presence of multivessel disease, diabetes, and the total length of the stented segment were predictive of major adverse cardiac events during 6‐month follow‐up. For every 1 mm increase in stent length, the risk for the combined end point of death or myocardial infarction increased by 3%. Lesion length was not predictive of clinical events on multivariate analysis. Conclusions: Our data raise the possibility that an attempt to use shorter stents to cover significant stenoses, but not adjacent areas of visible narrowing, may improve outcome.
Catheter‐Based Transendocardial Myocardial Gene Transfer
Authors: SYLVÉNM.D. CHRISTER , SARKAR NONDITA , INSULANDER PER , KENNEBÄCK GÖRAN , BLOMBERG PONTUS , ISLAM KHALID , DRVOTA VIKTOR
Published: July 2007

Background and Aim: Local modulation of myocardial function by gene transfer or cell depositions constitutes a potential method of cardiac treatment. This study tested the morphology of myocardial plasmid gene transfer by catheter‐based transendocardial injection (NOGA). Methods: Left ventricular morphology and electrical and mechanical characteristics were mapped in three dimensions. In two pigs, 0.10 mL oftoluidine blue was injected at ten sites. In seven pigs, seven to ten injections of 0.10 mL saline containing 0.10 mg pCMV‐LacZ expressing the enzyme β‐galactosidase and 0.10 mg phVEGF‐A165 were given. The pigs were sacrificed after 3 days and gene expression was determined. Results: Macroscopically on the endocardial surface, all identified spots were located in the target area. However, along the transmyocardial axis, injections with color and plasmid were located randomly throughout the left ventricular wall from the endocardium to the epicardium. In each detected spot, gene expression of β‐galactosidase was observed in an approximate myocardial volume of 5 × 5 × 5 mm. Microscopically, the transfected cells were located typically at the tip of the injection scar. As a rule, 10 to 20 transfected cells were located at the end of the injection scar. In sections where expression of both transcripts was observed, 42% of the cells expressed both β‐galactosidase and vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF), 32% only β‐galactosidase, and 26% only VEGF. Conclusions: Myocardial gene transfer following magnetic guidance can be located precisely on the left ventricular inner surface. Within the myocardium, gene expression is local around the distal tip of the injection scar and is located randomly at every level of depth of the left ventricular wall.
Acute Cardiogenic Shock Immediately after Successful Intervention for Failed Thrombolysis
Authors: CONSTANTINIDES SAVVAS , WONG PETER , SHIU MAN FAI
Published: July 2007

We report the case of a 60‐year‐old female with a history of hypertension who was admitted with an acute inferior myocardial infarction. She received rescue percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty/stenting of an occluded right coronary artery for failed thrombolysis with a good initial result. However, this was immediately complicated by cardiogenic shock characterized by left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradient. She was treated with intravenous fluids and adrenaline. Predischarge echocardiography showed no LVOT gradient and features of left ventricular hypertrophy that mainly affected the septum.
Fractional Flow Reserve in a Patient with Intermediate Coronary Stenosis and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: TSUKAMOTO MASAKI , AZUMA AKIHIRO , KURIBAYASHI TOSHIRO , KAWASAKI TATSUYA , YAMAMOTO KAZUTO , KAWATA KOICHI , SUGIHARA HIROKI , NAKAGAWA MASAO
Published: July 2007

We discuss the case of a 61 ‐year‐old male patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and chest pain on exertion. Coronary angiography and intravascular ultrasound revealed an intermediate stenosis in the proximal site of the left anterior descending artery, while Tc‐99m myocardial scintigraphy revealed exercise‐induced myocardial ischemia in the anteroseptal wall and apical portion. Flow velocity‐derived coronary flow reserve (CFR) and pressure‐derived fractional flow reserve (FFRmyo) were both low (1.1 and 0.59), suggesting that the stenosis was functionally significant. Directional coronary atherectomy greatly improved the FFRmyo (0.99), the scintigraphic findings, and anginal pain but did not improve the CFR (1.2). FFRmyo was useful in assessing the functional significance of an equivocal coronary stenosis and its interventional resolution.