bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Labour Market Structures, Labour Market Policy and Wage Formation in the OECD
Authors: Heylen Freddy
Published: June 2007

This paper investigates why the incentive to moderate wages in an environment of rising unemployment differs so strongly among the OECD countries. In the first part we develop an insider‐outsider bargaining model in which the wage results from a confrontation of the insiders' wage claims and the employer's wage offer. The second part of the paper empirically tests the model's predictions for the determinants of wage flexibility. The degree of centralization of wage bargaining, the extent of active labour market policy and the characteristics of the unemployment benefit system are shown to be relevant determinants.
Labour Market Policies: Welfare, Incomes, Employment
Authors: Brunetta Renato
Published: June 2007

The — in some ways innovative — objective of this paper is the study of the dynamics of the disequilibria provoked by the emergence of involuntary unemployment in the labour market, and the role of the economic policy authorities (through welfare, incomes and employment policies), with the aim of discovering if there is an explicit or implicit consistency between the role of these authorities, their actions and the pursuit of maximum employment (or elimination of the disequilibria).

We seek to show, in other words, whether the actions of the government authorities conform to their accepted meaning (the aim of reducing the disequilibria) or whether, on the contrary, it may not be possible to put forward a different interpretation, if sociopolitical variables are introduced into the analysis, thus placing in the foreground different and alternative objecties such as “conflict control” and/or the reaching of a consensus between the different social partners.

The paper therefore begins by analysing separately the historical‐theoretical characteristics of the individual policies considered — welfare, incomes and employment — in their evolution (with particular reference to the last two decades), and then attempts an interpretative key in synthesis, by resorting to a specific model derived from the theories of disequilibria.
Work and Social Reproduction: Two Concepts for Interpreting the Post‐Fordist Transition
Authors: Mingione Enzo , Pinnaro Gabriella
Published: June 2007

This article discusses the definitions of the term “work” which could be applied to advanced industrial societies, and which cover an increasingly complex range of activities. The authors' definition can be viewed as an attempt to forge a significant link between economic and sociological analysis, in order to understand the complex connections, typical only of industrial societies, between different forms of work and employment, and the variety of patterns of social reproduction of diverse groups in different periods and contexts.
Industrial Relations and Trade Union Effects on Innovation in Germany
Authors: Schnabel Claus , Wagner Joachim
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACT: This paper provides a thoretical and empirical evaluation of unions’effects on innovative activity, focussing on institutional details and country‐specific factors. We represent results of an econometric investigation for Germany using data at the industry and establishment level. In contrast to US studies, no statistically significant negative influence of unions on innovative activity shows up from industry‐level data. Establishment‐level data, however, indicate that the presence of a works council is positive for R & D if union density is not “too high”. This is in line with the more cooperative nature of industrial relations in Germany.
Real versus Nominal Convergence: National Labour Markets and the European Integration Process
Authors: Heylen Freddy , Van Poeck André , van Gompel Johan
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACT: This paper investigates the role of national labour market characteristics for the chances of successful transition to EMU in Europe as well as for its viability The conclusions are rather pessimistic Although overlooked by the Maastricht Treaty the need for real convergence (I e convergence of real macroeconomic variables like unemployment) is emphasized as a major condition for success However current labour market characteristics in the EC make it quite unlikely that this condition will be fulfilled We show that the implementation of the Maastricht programme might turn into an obstacle to monetary unification
Productivity, Real Wages and Worker Rights: A Cross‐National Comparison
Authors: Buchele Robert , Christiansen Jens
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACT: High unemployment in Europe has led many economists to recommend labour market deregulation — the removal of obstacles to labour market flexibility. These “obstacles” include union power, employment protection legislation and income security arrangements. We argue that such worker rights promote productivity and real wage growse effects. Policy‐makers should be aware of these positive effects on productivity and real wage growth when considering curtailing worker rights in order to reduce unemployment.
Regional Dispersion of Industrial Labour Costs in the European Community (1988)
Authors: Zighera Jacques , Athanassouli Kyriaki
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACT: The aim of this paper is to present a measure of regional labour costs in manufacturing industry in the European Community in 1988. As raw data, derived from the Eurostat Labour Cost Survey, are strongly dependent on sectoral distribution of employment in each region, a method is presented, based on reweighting techniques and loglinear modelling, to eliminate the composition effect. As a result, a regular geographical pattern does emerge. The same type of technique is then applied to the evolution of regional labour costs between 1984 and 1988; some correlation does appear with regional unemployment levels in the United Kingdom and France, pointing the way towards further research.
Unemployment Insurance Policy and Union Wage Formation
Authors: Vijlbrief Hans , van de Wijngaert Rob
Published: June 2007

Abstract. The paper considers the wage and employment effects of alternative social security policies. Such a policy can take the form of a fixed benefit level or linking the level of unemployment benefits to private sector wages. The latter is an important social security policy instrument to guarantee an equitable distribution of income. A fixed benefit level policy yields lower wages and larger employment than an automatic link between the level of benefits and the wage rate. Further, if the government decides to make the link conditional on the stabilization of the tax rate, wages are lower and employment is higher than in both former alternatives. By endogenizing its social security policy, the government is able to reduce the loss in employment that the link policy brings about.
Public‐Private Wage Differentials in French‐Speaking Africa: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Lachaud Jean‐Pierre
Published: June 2007

Abstract. In the framework of structural adjustment programs implemented in Africa, the idea that wages in the public sector are too high compared to those of the private sector is partly based on wage policies with regard to the public sector. But the existence of public‐wage differentials, inducing a labour market segmentation within the modern sector, has rarely been the object of attentive examination. With the help of earnings functions, based on homogeneous cross‐section and logitudinal data of seven capitals of French‐speaking Africa, the author plans to verify this hypothesis. The main conclusion of this research is that distortions on the modern labour market of many African countries are less important than one may think. In most of the countries considered, public‐private wage gaps are essentially attributable to characteristics of individuals. This suggests that policies aiming to reduce wages of the public sector are no longer justifiable, economically and socially.
The Redistributive Effects of the Tax Wedge in Italy
Authors: Di Biase Rita , Di Marco Marco
Published: June 2007

Abstract. This paper presents an original data set of microdata on the tax wedge in Italy, obtained by using the microsimulation model ITAXMOD, developed at ISPE (Institute for Studies on Economic Planning). These data are used to measure the components of the tax wedge and their burden on the total cost of labour at the individual level. The results have been aggregated across income brackets, socio‐economic groups and sectors of employment. These data are the necessary preliminary input for any redistributive analysis and in addition they make the available data for Italy comparable with those of other countries. Scant attention has been paid up to now to the redistributive aspects of the tax wedge, since most analyses are based on the income of the “average production worker” which is far from an ideal standard for comparison. The computation of the tax wedge for different brackets of total labour cost has been explored in two ways. The first is related to the differing weights of the components of the tax wedge on cost of labour and no particular hypothesis has been made about the incidence of these components. The results show that the burden of personal income taxation and of social security contributions is very high even for wage‐earners in the lowest brackets (in 1992, the estimated tax wedge is more than 44% of total labour cost even in the second decile of the labour cost). That might discourage both labour supply and labour demand across the entire spectrum of deciles of cost of labour. The second line of research studies the incidence of personal income taxes and employees' social security contributions on gross earnings, under the maintained hypothesis that these two components of the tax wedge are shouldered by the employees.
Modelling Wage Growth Dynamics in Italy, 1960‐90
Authors: D'Amato Marcello , Pistoresi Barbara
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACT: In this work we analyse the common dynamic properties of wage inflation, price inflation, unemployment and labour productivity using Italian annual data (1960‐90, source: Prometeia). Applying multivariate cointegration technique we test for the presence of a wage equation and a price mark‐up equation. The preferred identification suggests that it is possible to build up an error correction representation for the wage inflation, in which the rate of acceleration in wages depends on the contemporaneous rate of acceleration in prices and on the adjustment to long‐run disequilibrium as represented by a Phillips type relation. This representation is rejected for the price inflation which turns out to be weakly exogenous within the system. Furthermore, there is evidence that wage inflation does not Granger‐cause price inflation. The overall conclusion is that wage inflation does not contribute in explaining the price inflation process and the traditional mark‐up view of inflation is not supported by data. The policy implication is that monetary policy need not respond to wage data because they do not contain additional information about the future path of inflation.
Cost of Children, Parental Decisions, and Family Policy
Authors: Cigno Alessandro
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACT: The aims and means of family policy are examined in the light of standard economic theory, and of the microeconomics of fertility. It is shown that compensating parents for the cost of having children is unjustified, and that such a cost is not captured by the methods commonly used to estimate it anyway. On the other hand, a family policy may be justified if fertility or parental expenditures on children are‘'too small'’(or‘'too large”) as a result of externalities or market incompleteness; if some couples are physically rationed in their fertility decisions; or in order to relieve poverty. Manipulating taxes on parental earnings and child‐specific goods is generally preferable to changing child benefits rates.
The Child Support Enforcement Amendments of 1984 and Educational Attainment of Young Adults in the United States
Authors: Hernandez Pedro M. , Beller Andrea H. , Graham John W.
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACT: We compare changes in the effect of child support payments on the educational attainment of children age 16 to 19 before and after passage of the Child Support Enforcement Amendments of 1984, which strengthened enforcement of child support obligations in the United States. Using 1979, 1984, and 1988 Current Population Survey data, we hypothesize and find a decline in the positive effect of child support between 1984 and 1988 that exceeds any earlier decline. Instrumental variables estimates provide additional evidence consistent with the idea that child support serves as an indicator of unobservable characteristics of noncustodial fathers who pay support.
Acquiring knowledge with limited experience
Authors: Li Der‐Chiang , Yeh Chun‐Wu , Tsai Tung‐I , Fang Yao‐Hwei , Hu Susan C.
Published: June 2007

Abstract:From computational learning theory, sample size in machine learning problems indeed affects the learning performance. Since only few samples can be obtained in the early stages of a system and fewer exemplars usually lead to a low learning accuracy, this research compares different machine learning methods through their classification accuracies to improve small‐data‐set learning. Techniques used in this paper include the mega‐trend diffusion technique, a backpropagation neural network, a support vector machine, and decision trees to explore the machine learning issue with two real medical data sets concerning cancer. The result of the experiment shows that the mega‐trend diffusion technique and backpropagation approaches are effective methods of small‐data‐set learning.
Time Resolved Digital Holographic Interferometry for Investigations of Dynamical Events in Mechanical Components and Biological Tissues
Authors: Pedrini G. , Osten W.
Published: June 2007

Abstract:  In the first part (section 2) of the paper, a system based on digital holographic interferometry for the measurement of vibrations is presented. A high‐power continuous laser (10 W) and a high‐speed charge coupled device camera are used. Hundreds of holograms of an object that was subjected to dynamic deformation are recorded. The phase of the wave front is calculated from the recorded holograms by use of a two‐dimensional digital Fourier‐transform method. The deformation of the object is obtained from the phase. By combination of the deformations recorded at different time it is possible to reconstruct the vibration of the object. In the second part (section 3) of our paper, the holographic method is used for the measurements of the elastic properties of the bone. Samples of bone were loaded and deformed and a large number of interferograms (digital holograms) were recorded over a short period of time. In the third part (section 4) of the paper, we show how the holographic systems are adapted for performing measurements in hidden cavities.
Extrahepatic cholestasis downregulates Oatp1 by TNF‐α signalling without affecting Oatp2 and Oatp4 expression and sodium‐independent bile salt uptake in rat liver
Authors: Geier Andreas , Dietrich Christoph G. , Trauner Michael , Gartung Carsten
Published: June 2007

Hepatic uptake of bile salts is mediated by sodium‐dependent and sodium‐independent transport systems. During extrahepatic cholestasis, both the function and the expression of the Na+/taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (Ntcp) are downregulated. To test whether sodium‐independent organic anion‐transporting polypeptides are also affected by extrahepatic cholestasis, the function and expression of all three Oatps have been determined in common bile duct‐ligated (CBDL) rats. Oatp1/Oatp1a1 protein mass remained unchanged after CBDL for 1 day, but then declined by 75±7% and 90±17%, respectively, after 3 and 7 days. In contrast, Oatp2/Oatp1a4 and Oatp4/Oatp1b2 protein expression was not affected by CBDL as compared with controls. After CBDL, Oatp1 mRNA was rapidly downregulated by 68±21% of untreated controls (P<0.05) within 24 h, and remained at similar levels at 3 and 7 days. Cytokine‐inactivation studies with etanercept pretreatment demonstrated that TNF‐α‐dependent signals mediated the down‐regulation of this transporter gene at both protein and mRNA levels during obstructive cholestasis. Sodium‐independent uptake of taurocholate and cholate into freshly isolated hepatocyte suspensions showed neither significant differences inKmnorVmaxvalues. These results indicate that sodium‐independent transport of bile salts may be mediated by Oatp2 and 4 during biliary obstruction, because its expression remains unaffected and may compensate for loss of Oatp1 expression and function in cholestatic hepatocytes.
Field‐Testing Ecological and Economic Benefits of Coffee Certification Programs
Authors: PHILPOTT STACY M. , BICHIER PETER , RICE ROBERT , GREENBERG RUSSELL
Published: June 2007

Abstract:  Coffee agroecosystems are critical to the success of conservation efforts in Latin America because of their ecological and economic importance. Coffee certification programs may offer one way to protect biodiversity and maintain farmer livelihoods. Established coffee certification programs fall into three distinct, but not mutually exclusive categories: organic, fair trade, and shade. The results of previous studies demonstrate that shade certification can benefit biodiversity, but it remains unclear whether a farmer's participation in any certification program can provide both ecological and economic benefits. To assess the value of coffee certification for conservation efforts in the region, we examined economic and ecological aspects of coffee production for eight coffee cooperatives in Chiapas, Mexico, that were certified organic, certified organic and fair trade, or uncertified. We compared vegetation and ant and bird diversity in coffee farms and forests, and interviewed farmers to determine coffee yield, gross revenue from coffee production, and area in coffee production. Although there are no shade‐certified farms in the study region, we used vegetation data to determine whether cooperatives would qualify for shade certification. We found no differences in vegetation characteristics, ant or bird species richness, or fraction of forest fauna in farms based on certification. Farmers with organic and organic and fair‐trade certification had more land under cultivation and in some cases higher revenue than uncertified farmers. Coffee production area did not vary among farm types. No cooperative passed shade‐coffee certification standards because the plantations lacked vertical stratification, yet vegetation variables for shade certification significantly correlated with ant and bird diversity. Although farmers in the Chiapas highlands with organic and/or fair‐trade certification may reap some economic benefits from their certification status, their farms may not protect as much biodiversity as shade‐certified farms. Working toward triple certification (organic, fair trade, and shade) at the farm level may enhance biodiversity protection, increase benefits to farmers, and lead to more successful conservation strategies in coffee‐growing regions.
Ziprasidone for Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder: A Review of the Clinical Trials
Authors: Greenberg William M. , Citrome Leslie
Published: June 2007

Ziprasidone is a newer “atypical” or “second‐generation” antipsychotic. Oral ziprasidone (ziprasidone hydrochloride) is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of schizophrenia, and acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder (with or without psychotic features). Ziprasidone intramuscular (ziprasidone mesylate) is FDA‐approved for acute agitation in patients with schizophrenia. Oral ziprasidone appears efficacious, and has been shown to have some limited clinical advantages over chlorpromazine and haloperidol in ameliorating negative symptoms of schizophrenia. In Phase 2 of the Clinical Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness (CATIE) for schizophrenia, ziprasidone did not match the clinical performance of olanzapine and risperidone, appearing closer in overall effectiveness to quetiapine. The rate of dose titration and the dose achieved may have an important bearing on ziprasidone's efficacy profile. In studies of usage for acute agitation in individuals with schizophrenia, intramuscular ziprasidone has been shown to be efficacious and relatively well tolerated. Regarding tolerability, ziprasidone, has important advantages in that it is not associated with clinically significant weight gain or adverse changes in cholesterol, triglycerides, or glycemic control, and patients may experience moderate improvement in these measures when switching to ziprasidone from a different antipsychotic agent. It also lacks significant persistent effects on prolactin levels, is not anticholinergic, and only infrequently causes extrapyramidal side effects or postural hypotension, although it can be associated with somnolence. This tolerability profile may be quite valuable in the treatment of some patients. Ziprasidone may prolong the electrocardiogram (ECG) QTc interval (QT interval corrected for heart rate by a standard algorithm), but after 5 years' clinical availability ziprasidone (by itself) does not appear to pose a substantial clinical problem in this regard. Therefore, ziprasidone may be considered a first‐line drug option in the treatment of schizophrenia or manic episodes, but, in view of the differences among antipsychotic medications, drug selection should be guided by the patient's individual characteristics and situation.
Safety and Efficacy of Therapeutically Equivalent Doses of Sustained‐Release Formulations of Isradipine and Felodipine
Authors: Ganz Michael B. , Saksa Brett A.
Published: June 2007

This open‐label, drug substitution study was conducted to determine if subjects receiving sustained‐release isradipine (SR‐I) can be safely switched to sustained‐release felodipine (SR‐F) and to assess whether SR‐I provides better 24‐hour blood pressure (BP) control than SR‐F. Forty‐one men receiving either SR‐F 5 mg or SR‐F 10 mg once daily for at least 6 months were switched to an equivalent dose of SR‐I; BP was measured 2, 4, and 6 weeks after substitution. Significant reductions in systolic BP were seen in the SR‐I 10 mg group after 4 weeks and they remained significantly lower through 6 weeks (p≤0.05). Diastolic BP was reduced, but not significantly. After 6 weeks, SR‐F therapy was reinstated, and BP returned toward baseline values. No serious adverse events were reported. SR‐I can be safely substituted for SR‐F and may provide better 24‐hour control of BP than SR‐F.
Effect of ADH1B Genotype on Alcohol Consumption in Young Israeli Jews
Authors: Spivak Baruch , Frisch Amos , Maman Ziyona , Aharonovich Efrat , Alderson Donald , Carr Lucinda G. , Weizman Avraham , Hasin Deborah
Published: June 2007

Background: The alcohol dehydrogenase 1B (ADH1B) genotype affects the risk for alcoholism, with elevated prevalence of a protective allele in Jews. Alcohol consumption is increasing among younger Israeli Jews, reflecting environmental influences. We investigated whether the relationship of ADH1B genotype with alcohol consumption differed between younger and older adult Israelis.

Methods: Israeli community residents aged 22 to 65 participated in a structured interview that included questions on the maximum number of drinks on an occasion (Maxdrinks). The ADH1B genotype was determined for 68 participants and dichotomized into nonprotective (ADH1B*1/1) and protective (ADH1B*1/2 or ADH1B*2/2) genotypes. Using Maxdrinks as the dependent variable, Poisson's regression was used to test an age × genotype interaction.

Results: The ADH1B genotype interacted significantly with age (p=0.01) in a Poisson's model with Maxdrinks as the outcome. Among participants ≥33 years, Maxdrinks was low and unrelated to the ADH1B genotype. Among participants <33 years with ADH1B*1/2 or ADH1B*2/2, Maxdrinks was also low (mean, 2.6 drinks) but among those with ADH1B*1/1, Maxdrinks was substantially higher (mean, 6.2 drinks).

Conclusion: Maximum lifetime drinking among younger adult Israelis without genetic protection exceeded thresholds for risky and unsafe drinking (≥5 drinks). Environmental influences promoting greater drinking among younger Israelis may particularly affect those with the nonprotective, more common ADH1B genotype.
Prognosis for Abutment Teeth of Removable Dentures: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Piwowarczyk Andree , Köhler Kai‐Christian , Bender Ralf , Büchler Alfred , Lauer Hans‐Christoph , Ottl Peter
Published: June 2007

Purpose:
This retrospective study evaluates the clinical success of conical crown‐retained removable dentures.

Materials and Methods
: Ninety‐seven patients were treated with 97 dentures at the University of Frankfurt, Department of Prosthodontics, between 1993 and 2000. The average observation period was 4.9 ± 2.8 years. The dentures were supported by 445 natural abutment teeth. To evaluate the long‐term success of the restorations, the variables abutment loss, tooth mobility, mean probing depths, and radiological bone loss were used. Data were obtained by one clinical examiner at baseline, by systematic evaluation of patient records, and at clinical re‐examinations. Survival‐time methods were used to analyze time‐to‐event data. Specifically, the Cox model with frailty term was applied to account for correlations between intra‐patient survival data. Thirty abutment teeth had to be extracted during the observation period.

Results:
Statistical analysis showed no significant effects of the variables tooth mobility (p= 0.42), mean probing depths (p= 0.23), and radiological bone loss (p= 0.59) on the time to tooth extraction. For the non‐extracted abutment teeth significant changes during time for the variables tooth mobility (p < 0.0001) and radiological bone loss (p= 0.0240) were observed.

Conclusion:
Removable partial dentures retained by conical crowns have a favorable clinical prognosis
The Use of a Diagnostic Matrix in the Management of the Severely Worn Dentition
Authors: Doan Phuong D. , Goldstein Gary R.
Published: June 2007

The management of the interim phase of a complete oral rehabilitation in patients with severely worn dentition is often challenging due to loss of occlusal vertical dimension, loss of tooth structure, uneven wear of teeth creating an uneven plane of occlusion, and para‐functional habits. This paper will demonstrate how a clear thermo‐forming matrix fabricated from the diagnostic wax‐up can be used as a guide to facilitate treatment.
The Great Unraveling: Federal Budgeting, 1998–2006
Authors: Rubin Irene
Published: June 2007

Since 1998, budgeting reforms at the federal level have unraveled extensively. The budget process has become ad hoc, fragmented, and opaque, balance has been elusive, and the failure to prioritize has become endemic. One cause was the mismatch between the budget process in 1998, which was designed to eliminate deficits, and the emerging budgetary surpluses of that time. A second contributing factor was the desire to reduce taxes while expenditures were increasing as a result of wars and natural disasters. The consequences of this great unraveling include the failure to fund Medicare and Social Security adequately when the opportunity was presented, as well as threats to constitutional and democratic governance. Renewed reform may require greater transparency and a willingness to embarrass elected officials with iconic stories.
A Comment on “The Great Unraveling: Federal Budgeting, 1998–2006”
Authors: Hoagland G. William
Published: June 2007

To declare that the federal budgetary process is in utter shambles based principally on an analysis of a six‐year interval during a single presidential administration, as Professor Irene Rubin does in the preceding article, is unfair to history and misleading. Drawing on significant budgetary experience as a U.S. Senate staff member, the author of this essay argues that (1) the contributions of emergency appropriations and earmarks to the federal budgetary imbalance are overstated, (2) the goal of perpetual budgetary balance is unsound policy, and (3) budgets—inevitably the result of a political process—are artifacts reflecting societal priorities at a given point in time.
Fiscal Management Implications of the TABOR Bind
Authors: Martell Christine R. , Teske Paul
Published: June 2007

Following a wave of state‐adopted tax and expenditure limitations (TELs), in 1992 the state of Colorado amended its constitution with the strictest TEL to date. Called the Taxpayer Bill of Rights and known as TABOR, the amendment has limited the size and scope of Colorado governments. Praised as a restraint on unbridled government growth in good economic times, TABOR reared its highly restrictive head as the state economy turned downward. The central issue explored is how binding tax and expenditure limitations affect the state’s ability to weather economic recessions and employ sound fiscal management practices. As in most institutional arrangements, the devil is in the details. The analysis presented here reveals that binding limitations create perverse incentives for budgetary actors to earmark, privatize, and shift responsibilities to other jurisdictions, which ultimately combine to reduce the state government’s ability to perform and to maintain sound fiscal management practices.
Governing the Chinese Economy: Regulatory Reform in the Service of the State
Authors: Pearson Margaret M.
Published: June 2007

Pursuant to its extensive program of market reforms, China’s government tried to restructure itself to support a market‐dominated economy. Reform efforts have included elements that are familiar to scholars of public administration: streamlining government, strengthening bureaucratic capacity, distancing government from firms, and establishing independent regulators. But how deep have these reforms been, and with what ultimate goals? This article examines a crucial segment of the economy—China’s so‐called lifeline industries—to show how reforms to China’s economic governance system have been mapped onto an existing system characterized by extreme institutional fragmentation and an inability to imbue new governmental bodies with authority. Moreover, for these key industrial sectors, the Chinese party‐state’s strong interests in ownership, revenues, and social policy dictate that it use a variety of tools to protect these interests.
Brain Politics: Aspects of Administration in the Comparative Issue Definition of Autism‐Related Policy
Authors: Lee Baker Dana , Stokes Shannon
Published: June 2007

The construction of public problems has a lasting influence on implementation in a given policy subsystem. National and sociopolitical contexts influence issue definition differently across nations. However, the degree to which nation‐specific issue definition takes place has been insufficiently explored. In recent years, the growing incidence of autism has led to a quest for causal factors. One hypothesis posits that the use of mercury in vaccines may be a culprit. This paper examines the definition of the mercury and autism issue in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Insights into the comparative elements of issue definition are suggested by the case. These insights are of particular importance to administrators, as agencies are deeply involved as objects and actors in the process of issue definition and are often responsible for implementing new and redefined policies.
Review of Hardware for PTCA
Authors: WERNS STEVEN W. , TOPOL ERIC J.
Published: June 2007

There is a growing inventory of dilatation hardware at the disposal of the interventional cardiologist. The purpose of this review is to compare the distinguishing features of current and anticipated equipment which should be considered in the selection of hardware for performing coronary angioplasty (PTCA). New guiding catheters designed to improve “back‐up” support for difficult anatomic variants include the hockey stick, the El Gamal, the Arani, the FR 3.5 ALT, and the AL 0.75 and ALR 1.2 Amplatz models. New “micro” dilatation catheters include the Mini‐Profile and Skinny catheters, which combine independent wire movement and low profile shafts (3.5 F), and the Probe, which is currently the catheter with the lowest profile shaft (1.7 F) and balloon (0.020” for a 2.0‐mm diameter balloon). The low profile of the Probe allows it to be used alongside a conventional 4.3 F dilatation catheter within the new 9 F Giant Lumen guiding catheter, which has an internal diameter of 0.088″. The forthcoming “monorail” catheters will provide the operator with a low profile, “over‐the‐wire” system that can be exchanged for a different balloon size or a perfusion catheter without using an extension or exchange wire. Two innovations in guidewire technology are the Dilating Guide Wire (DGW) and the Buchbinder Om‐niflex catheter. The DGW features a 1.5‐mm diameter balloon with a deflated profile of 0.018” that can be accommodated within the Trac and Trac Plus series of dilatation catheters. The Buchbinder Omniflex catheter is designed so that the distal tip of the wire can be rotated and flexed via controls on the proximal hub of the catheter, permitting shaping of the tip without removal of the catheter. Selection of appropriate equipment from the vast array of PTCA hardware will allow the operator to minimize the cost and maximize both the safety and success of dilating a coronary stenosis. (J Interven Cardiol 1988:1:3)
Use of Sheath (Probing CatheterTM) to Enhance Efficacy of the ProbeTM Dilatation Catheter
Authors: GOUDREAU EVELYNE , VETROVEC GEORGE W.
Published: June 2007

Coronary angioplasty of very distal or subtotal lesions has been markedly improved with the recent development of the ProbeTM dilatation catheter. However, despite its very low profile, the ProbeTM has certain limitations. We describe a new device. the Probing CatheterTM, that, in conjunction with the ProbeTM increases the success rate and facilitates coronary angioplasty of very distal or high grade lesions.
Sinus Node Dysfunction Associated with Isolated Left Superior Vena Cava
Authors: JEANRENAUD XAVIER , KAPPENBERGER LUKAS
Published: June 2007

The absence of the right superior vena cava with persistance of the left is a rare venous anomaly, which occurs in 0.05% of general population. This anomaly has been associated with other congenital cardiac defects but rarely with sinus node dysfunction. We report the case of a 52‐year‐old woman who suffered from symptomatic bradycardia that was associated with supraventricular arrhythmias, and refractory to drugs. Implantation of a pacemaker was necessary and an AAI mode possible because of normal atrioventricular conduction. Insertion of the PM lead was performed via the right cephalic vein, then conducted through the innominate vein into the left persistent superior vena cava, leading to the right atrium via the coronary sinus. The electrode was fixed to the right atrial lateral wall; stimulation threshold was within normal limits. Digital angiography of superior venous inflow confirmed complete absence of the right superior vena cava and described a dilated coronary sinus. No other structural heart disease was present. In accordance with reports in the literature, we found the absence of right superior vena cava complicated by sick sinus syndrome and suggest an etiologic link between these two afflictions. Sinus node function should be studied whenever this venous anomaly is discovered in presence of evocated symptoms.
Continuous Monitoring of the Coronary Perfusion during Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty of the Left Anterior Descending Artery
Authors: NITSCH JOBST , TEBBENJOHANNS JÜRGEN , BERNDT LÜDERITZ M.D.
Published: June 2007

We studied the coronary sinus blood flow velocity (CSBFV) using a Doppler catheter (Medtronic Floscan 6615) during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA, n = 10, controls n = 28) of the proximal left anterior descending artery (LAD) stenoses to achieve an additional guiding performance in high risk patients. The resting CSBFV was similar in controls (3.54 ± 1.34 cm/ sec) and in patients before (3.4 ± 1.4 cm/sec) and after PTCA (3.7 ± 1.2 cm/sec). Brief coronary vasodilatation was produced by contrast medium: before PTCA patients still had a substantial increase (1.5 ± 0.2 ± resting CSBFV). However, after PTCA, the flow rose an almost identical amount (2.2 ± 0.2 ± CSBFV) to that of the control group (2.25 ± 0.2 ± CSBFV). CSBFV was monitored continuously before and after each inflation and during reactive hyperemia. Doppler measurements in the coronary sinus are a valuable adjunct to the angiographic assessment of the immediate PTCA result and may provide a suitable online functional monitoring of high risk patients. (J Interven Cardiol 1989:2:4)
Local Introduction of Drugs into the Arterial Wall: A Percutaneous Catheter Technique
Authors: WOLINSKY HARVEY , THUNG SWAN N.
Published: June 2007

A method is described by which agents can be introduced directly into the arterial wall via the percutaneous approach. A perforated balloon catheter has been developed to accomplish this. Several major theoretical hurdles have been overcome. Specifically, heparin in high doses can be introduced in arterial segments and shown to be retained for at least 48 hours. The use of high dose heparin to inhibit cell proliferation underlying restenosis after angioplasty is discussed. Other potential drug applications for restenosis, atherosclerosis, and study of metabolic activity of arterial tissue are discussed. The advantages of this method over prolonged intravenous drug delivery are obvious. Further studies of clinical applicability seem worthwhile. (J Interven Cardiol 1989:2:4)
Atrial Septal Defect Measurement with a Guidewire Loop
Authors: MUELLER X.M. , SIGWART U. , REGLI F. , KAPPENBERGER L.
Published: June 2007

A practical, simple and cheap technique using a guidewire loop for transvenous measurement of the size of a patent foramen ovate is presented. We applied this device in four patients without complication. To clear a suspected cause of paradoxical embolism was the indication of this procedure. Sizes between 16 and 4 mm were documented. We conclude that this technique may be of value in determining criteria for surgical closure or for the evaluation of transcatheter obliteration in hemodynamically nonrelevant atrial septal defects.
The Association of Fibrinopeptide A with Cardiac Events Following Coronary Angioplasty
Authors: JAMES KAREN B. , BRODSKY MARC S. , LUCAS FRED V. , HOLLMAN JAY L. , SCHLUCHTER MARK D. , WHITLOW PATRICK L.
Published: June 2007

Rethrombosis may be a major determinant of poor outcome after angioplasty. Fibrinopeptide A, a marker of thrombin activity, was measured in 79 patients after coronary angioplasty to assess for association with subsequent cardiac events. Fibrinopeptide A levels were drawn postangioplasty on heparin and prior to discharge off heparin. Levels greater than 2.0 ng/mL were considered elevated. During 6‐month follow‐up, recurrence of stenosis occurred in 14 out of 51 patients (27%) with elevated levels, requiring repeat angioplasty or bypass surgery. One more patient showed angiographic evidence of recurrence (at least 30% increase in stenosis) not severe enough to require revascularization. Fibrinopeptide A was elevated in this patient. There were three late cardiac deaths and one acute myocardial infarction, all in patients with elevated fibrinopeptide A. An additional five patients had an abnormal stress test without subsequent cathe‐terization to assess recurrences; four of them had elevated fibrinopeptide A. In total, there were 22 out of 51 patients (43%) with elevated fibrinopeptide A levels with adverse outcomes, as compared with 6 out of 28 (21%) with normal levels (P = 0.05). Thus, an elevated fibrinopeptide A early after angioplasty may be a marker for a group at greater risk for restenosis.
Some Laser‐Tissue Interactions in 308 nm Excimer Laser Coronary Angioplasty
Authors: GIJSBERS GEERT H. M. , SPRANGERS RENE L. H. , KEIJZER MARLEEN. , DE BAKKER JACQUES M. T. , VAN LEEUWEN TON G. , VERDAASDONK RUDOLF M. , BORST CORNELIUS. , VAN GEMERT MARTIN J. C.
Published: June 2007

Some physical concepts of laser‐tissue interactions that occur in 308‐nm excimer laser angioplasty are addressed. Monte Carlo numerical computations were used to analyze the light fluence rate distributions resulting from finite diameter laser beams incident on tissue, as applied by fiber‐optic light delivery catheters. The fluence rate at the inside part of the tissue surface from a 0.2‐mm diameter fiber emitting 308‐nm light, is increased more than twice relative to the incident power density. The light fluence rate distribution inside the tissue spreads very little outside the incident beam diameter. Therefore, the distributions from different fibers in multifiber catheters will not overlap unless the fibers are very close together. The maximum fluence rate decreases with decreasing beam diameters. Ablation of tissue by a 308‐nm excimer laser delivery system in contact with the tissue resulted in a damage zone adjacent to the crater wall, due to expansion of the gaseous debris trapped under the tip of delivery system. In case of contact irradiation, the ablation was more efficient than in case of noncontact irradiation. Direct temperature measurements during excimer laser ablation by an infared (IR) camera showed that temperature accumulation will occur when a sequence of pulses is applied at frequencies of at least 5 Hz. The temperature rise above ambient under circumstances simulating clinical conditions is measured to be 66°± 7°C.
Retrograde Opacification of Collaterals Aiding Repeat PTCA of Complete Occlusion at Previously Dissected Angioplasty Site
Authors: RAMSDALE DAVID R. , BELLAMY CHRISTOPHER M.
Published: June 2007

During percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty the correct intravascular placement of an angioplasty guidewire and balloon is important especially when crossing a site of previous intimal dissection. This may be hazardous when total occlusion prevents anterograde opacification of the artery. This case illustrates the technique of retrograde opacification of the distal vessel by cross‐filling from the contralateral coronary artery.
Catheter Ablation of Left Parietal Accessory Pathways
Authors: WARIN JEAN‐FRANCOIS , HAISSAGUERRE MICHEL , LE MÉTAYER PHILIPPE , MONTSERRAT PAUL , MASSIÈRE JEAN‐PAUL
Published: June 2007

Fifty‐one patients with a left parietal pathway and drug refractory tachycardia underwent transcatheler ablation of their accessory pathway. Three had single concealed pathways, two had multiple pathways, and the remaining 46 had the Wolff‐Parkinson‐While syndrome. Two patients were resuscitated from a cardiac arrest related to a ventricular fibrillation. A multipolar (quadri‐, hexa‐, or octopolar) electrode catheter was positioned within the coronary sinus in order to localize the pathway accurately. An ablation catheter was then introduced either through a patent foramen ovale (11 patients), by transseptal catheterization (14 patients) or a retrograde arterial catheterization (26 patients). The mitral annulus was mapped with this catheter during orthodromic tachycardia in order to record ventriculoatrial (VA) time as short as (or even shorter than) that recorded in the coronary sinus. The VA time in our series was 82 ± 13 msec. Two 160‐joule cathodal shocks were delivered at this site and eventually repeated according to the results (73 sessions/51 patients). The mean cumulative energy was 650 ± 205 joules. No significant side effects occurred except one case of a right coronary artery spasm leading to inferior wall infarction. During follow‐up of 2–49 months, all but two patients were free of tachycardia. Twelve patients were reassessed 4 to 8 months after the procedure: conduction over the pathway was absent, and no vascular damage was noticed. Catheter ablation of left parietal accessory pathways is both effective and safe. Ablation by retrograde arterial catheterization was as efficient as the tranxseptal approach. This method is an attractive alternative to surgery.
Transfemoral Plug Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus: Experiences at Osaka Prefectural Hospital
Authors: SATO KENJI , KAWAMOTO SEIICHI , YOSHIDA SHIGEYUKI , ABA FUMITAKA
Published: June 2007

Transfemoral plug closure of PDA (patent ductus arteriosus), which was originally introduced by Porstmann in 1968, was successful in 73 of 74 consecutive patients at Osaka Prefectural Hospital. Some instrumental and technical modifications were made. There has been no mortality, and no dis‐lodgment of the plug occurred after the modified plug with a barbed head was used although a major complication during the procedure was the dislodgment of the plug into the aorta, which occurred early in three cases. There was no recurrence of shunting or any other complications in the long‐term follow‐up studies. For the patient with a simple isolated PDA over 3 years of age, the catheter technique is considered to be the method of choice to close the ductus. (J Interven Cardiol 1991; 4:295–300)
Intravascular Ultrasound and Vascular Intervention
Authors: GUSSENHOVEN ELMA J. , SALEM H.K. , SERRUYS PATRICK W. , VAN URK HERO , PIETERMAN HERMAN , VAN EGMOND FRANS C. , ROELANDT JOS R. , LANCÉE CHARLES T. , WENGUANG LI , ZHONG YIN
Published: June 2007

An intravascular ultrasonic imaging device (40 MHz) was used to obtain in vitro ultrasonic images and matching histologic cross‐sections, derived from human vascular specimens. The feasibility of assessing vessel wall morphology as well as the ability to accurately document plaque thickness was determined. Based on the echogenicity of the arterial media, intravascular ultrasound could distinguish muscular arteries from elastic arteries, veins, and bypass grafts. The hypoechoic media only present in the muscular type of artery proved to be an essential landmark to document superimposed atherosclerosis. Plaque thickness calculated in these arteries showed close relationship with the corresponding histologic cross‐section. Using real‐time in vivo intravascular imaging (30 MHz), the morphology of the vessels interrogated was studied. The dynamic change of the arterial wall, as well as the outcome after intervention, is discussed.
Strecker Stent as a Bailout Device Following Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty
Authors: REIFART N. , LANGER A. , STÖRGER H. , SCHWARZ F. , PREUSLER W. , HOFMANN M.
Published: June 2007

The Strecker stent is a balloon‐mounted flexible endoprothesis of knitted tantalum wires, successfully used in peripheral arteries. In our practice stents are only implanted as a bailout device after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). In 112/5,000 consecutive patients (2.2%), a dissection could not be sealed with prolonged balloon inflations and resulted in total (28%) or subtotal occlusion. A total of 127 stents (71 Schatz–Palmaz, 56 Strecker) had to be implanted. All patients were pretreated with aspirin p.o. and 20,000 U heparin IV. Before stent implantation, they received 500 mg intracoronary aspirin, 5,000 U heparin, and 500 mL Dextrane; and after implant, between 1,500 and 2,300 U/hour heparin IV overlapping a 3‐month treatment with Coumadin, aspirin p.o., and Pyridamol. Results of Strecker (n = 48) versus Schatz‐Palmaz (n = 64) stent: technical success (97% vs 95%); acute thrombosis (13% vs 16%); subacute thrombosis (8% vs 16%); severe bleeding (15% vs 9%); myocardial infarction (2% vs 3%); emergency CABG (6% vs 5%); in‐hospital death (10% vs 6%); restenosis (42% vs 31%); and late death (6–12 months) (6% vs 3%). Conclusion: (1) The Strecker coronary stent can be easily placed even in acute takeoff and tortuous vessels. (2) In bailout situations a high incidence of early thrombotic occlusions sets limits to both stents. (3) We, therefore, recommend urgent bypass operation after stent placement in these patients when the area at risk is large.