bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ileal Neobladder for Bladder Substitution after Radical Cystectomy
Authors: Yokoo Akifumi , Hirose Takaoki , Mikuma Naohito , Tsukamoto Taiji
Published: July 2007

Background: Studer's ileal neobladder is technically simple, and favorable clinical results have been reported. However, there have been only a few follow‐up studies on this type of ileal neobladder. We reviewed the clinical outcomes of patients who received Studer's ileal neobladder, with a minor modification, in our institution.

Methods: Twenty‐five men underwent bladder reconstruction with Studer's ileal neobladder after radical cystectomy. The function of the ileal neobladder and voiding status were evaluated during follow‐up. The follow‐up period ranged from 3 to 42 months (mean, 24 months).

Results: The ileal neobladder achieved a large capacity at a low basal pressure, associated with a relatively low complication rate directly related to the neobladder. At 12 months after surgery, daytime and nighttime continence rates were 90|X% and 74|X%, respectively. In 5 patients who were incontinent, the maximal urethral closure pressure was statistically lower than in patients with continence.

Conclusion: Studer's ileal neobladder is an easy operative procedure for bladder substitution, and has a relatively low complication rate directly related to the neobladder. Good compliance ofthe pouch and preservation of the external sphincter mechanism are the most important factors for achieving urinary continence, after construction of the ileal neobladder.
Diffusion of Piperacillin, Cefotiam, Minocycline, Amikacin and Ofloxacin into the Prostate
Authors: Goto Toshihiro , Makinose Shinichi , Ohi Yoshitada , Yamauchi Daishi , Kayajima Tsuneyoshi , Nagayama Kazuhiro , Hayami Hiroshi
Published: July 2007

Background: The successful treatment of bacterial prostatitis depends on an effective antimicrobial concentration in prostatic tissue against the infecting organism. In this study we compared the diffusion of 5 types of antimicrobials into the prostate.

Methods: The concentrations of piperacillin, cefotiam, minocycline, amikacin, and ofloxacin were determined in prostatic fluid, prostatic tissue, and serum 2.5 to 3 hours after a single administration from 55 patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy.

Results: Although amikacin showed the highest mean concentration both in prostatic tissueand prostatic fluid, the prostatic tissue/serum ratio was significantly higher (P < 0.01) for ofloxacin (1.49 ± 0.80) and minocycline(0.94 ± 0.39)compared with those for amikacin (0.49 ± 0.2l)and piperacillin (0.21 ± 0.15). Also, the prostatic fluid/serum ratio was lower than the prostatic tissue/serum ratio for each drug, however, the prostatic fluid/serum ratio of ofloxacin was significantly higher than that of other antimicrobials tested (P < 0.01).

Conclusion: These results support earlier studies demonstrating that fluoroquinolones are a useful class of antimicrobials for the treatment of chronic bacterial prostatitis. They also suggest that in view of the pharmacokinetic properties and antimicrobial activities, amikacin and minocycline may be alternate antimicrobial options for selected patients with bacterial infections of the prostate.
long‐term Follow‐up Study of Penile Cancer
Authors: Yamada Yuji , Gohji Kazuo , Hara Isao , Sugiyama Takeki , Arakawa Soichi , Kamidono Sadao
Published: July 2007

Background: We reviewed the outcomes for patients with penile cancer to determine factors predictive of their survival.

Methods: Between 1966 and 1996, 59 patients with penile cancer were treated at Kobe University Hospital. The median follow‐up period was 109 months (range, 4 to 240 months). The prognostic factors were determined by multivariate analysis. Disease progression rates, according to stage and the type of surgery, were studied.

Results: The 5‐and 10‐year, cause‐specific survival rates were 75.9|X% and 73.8|X%, respectively. Lymph node involvement, tumor stage, and tumor differentiation were the independent risk factors identified by multivariate analysis. Among the patients at stage 1 and 2, none of the 29 patients treated with early lymphadenectomy showed recurrence in the inguinal region, while 4 (27|X%) of 15 patients without lymphadenectomy showed such recurrence.

Conclusion: Our results suggestthattumor stage, lymph node involvement, and tumor differentiation are significant prognostic factors for survival, and that early inguinal lymphadenectomy would improve the prognosis of patients with stage 1 or 2 penile cancer.
Visual Working Memory Represents a Fixed Number of Items Regardless of Complexity
Authors: Awh Edward , Barton Brian , Vogel Edward K.
Published: July 2007

Does visual working memory represent a fixed number of objects, or is capacity reduced as object complexity increases? We measured accuracy in detecting changes between sample and test displays and found that capacity estimates dropped as complexity increased. However, these apparent capacity reductions were strongly correlated with increases in sample-test similarity ( r = .97), raising the possibility that change detection was limited by errors in comparing the sample and test, rather than by the number of items that were maintained in working memory. Accordingly, when sample-test similarity was low, capacity estimates for even the most complex objects were equivalent to the estimate for the simplest objects ( r = .88), suggesting that visual working memory represents a fixed number of items regardless of complexity. Finally, a correlational analysis suggested a two-factor model of working memory ability, in which the number and resolution of representations in working memory correspond to distinct dimensions of memory ability.
Alcohol and Aggression
Authors: Giancola Peter R. , Corman Michelle D.
Published: July 2007

This article presents the first systematic test of the attention-allocation model for alcohol-related aggression. According to this model, alcohol has a “myopic” effect on attentional capacity that presumably facilitates aggression by focusing attention on more salient provocative, rather than less salient inhibitory, cues in hostile situations. Aggression was assessed using a laboratory task in which mild electric shocks were received from, and administered to, a fictitious opponent. Study 1 demonstrated that a moderate-load cognitive distractor suppressed aggression in intoxicated subjects (to levels even lower than those exhibited by a placebo control group). Study 2 assessed how varying the magnitude of a distracting cognitive load affected aggression in the alcohol and placebo conditions. Results indicated that the moderate-load distraction used in Study 1 (i.e., holding four elements in sequential order in working memory) suppressed aggression best. Cognitive loads of larger and smaller magnitudes were not successful in attenuating aggression.
Relative entropy and spectral constraints: some invariance properties of the ARMA class
Authors: Girardin Valerie
Published: July 2007

Abstract.  We determine the form of spectral densities of multidimensional scalar processes which minimize a relative entropy under a finite number of general moment‐type constraints. The obtained theoretical results are applied to spectral densities of weakly stationary processes under covariances, inverse covariances and cepstral or impulse response constraints. Invariance properties of the class of autoregressive moving‐average (ARMA) processes are shown to hold under the relative entropy minimization principle for many choices of entropy.
Foreign and Local Institutional Ownership and the Speed of Price Adjustment
Authors: Park Young K. , Chung Kee H.
Published: July 2007

Abstract:  This paper examines the relation between the speed of price adjustment and stock ownership by foreign and local institutional investors using data from the Korean stock market. We show that returns of stocks with high foreign institutional ownership lead returns of stocks with low foreign institutional ownership, especially after foreign ownership restriction is lifted. Likewise, returns of stocks with high local institutional ownership lead returns of stocks with low local institutional ownership. These results support the idea that foreign institutional (local institutional) investors have faster access to or processing power of new information than local institutional (local individual) investors.
Auditor's Engagement Risk and Audit Fees: The Role of Audit Firm Alumni
Authors: Basioudis Ilias G.
Published: July 2007

Abstract:  This study explores the effect of the association of audit firm alumni with their alma mater on audit prices. The tests indicate that there is a moderate reduction of up to 21% in the level of audit fee when alumni (i.e., former employees) of the incumbent audit firm sit on the client board of directors which is consistent with the engagement risk theory. This suggests that there is an ‘alumni effect’ in the market for audit services. The findings hold only in the large company segment of the market. The results are robust to different model specifications and alternative samples. The sample comprises all executive and non‐executive directors who run the UK quoted companies and are simultaneously ICAEW qualified chartered accountants. The study's implications for the accounting profession and the regulators are also discussed.
Inhibition of Rho kinase (ROCK) increases neurite outgrowth on chondroitin sulphate proteoglycanin vitroand axonal regeneration in the adult optic nervein vivo
Authors: Lingor Paul , Teusch Nicole , Schwarz Katrin , Mueller Reinhold , Mack Helmut , Bähr Mathias , Mueller Bernhard K.
Published: July 2007

Inhibitory molecules derived from CNS myelin and glial scar tissue are major causes for insufficient functional regeneration in the mammalian CNS. A multitude of these molecules signal through the Rho/Rho kinase (ROCK) pathway. We evaluated three inhibitors of ROCK, Y‐ 27632, Fasudil (HA‐1077), and Dimethylfasudil (H‐1152), in models of neurite outgrowthin vitro. We show, that all three ROCK inhibitors partially restore neurite outgrowth of Ntera‐2 neurons on the inhibitory chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan substrate. In the rat optic nerve crush model Y‐27632 dose‐dependently increased regeneration of retinal ganglion cell axonsin vivo. Application of Dimethylfasudil showed a trend towards increased axonal regeneration in an intermediate concentration. We demonstrate that inhibition of ROCK can be an effective therapeutic approach to increase regeneration of CNS neurons. The selection of a suitable inhibitor with a broad therapeutic window, however, is crucial in order to minimize unwanted side effects and to avoid deleterious effects on nerve fiber growth.
Building and testing conceptual and empirical models for predicting soil bulk density
Authors: Tranter G. , Minasny B. , Mcbratney A. B. , Murphy B. , Mckenzie N. J. , Grundy M. , Brough D.
Published: July 2007

The development of pedotransfer functions offers a potential means of alleviating cost and labour burdens associated with bulk‐density determinations. As a means of incorporating a priori knowledge into the model‐building process, we propose a conceptual model for predicting soil bulk density from other more regularly measured properties. The model considers soil bulk density to be a function of soil mineral packing structures (ρm) and soil structure (Δρ). Bulk‐density maxima were found for soils with approximately 80% sand. Bulk densities were also observed to increase with depth, suggesting the influence of over‐burden pressure. Residuals from the ρm model, hereby known as Δρ, correlated with organic carbon. All models were trained using Australian soil data, with limits set at bulk densities between 0.7 and 1.8 g cm−3 and containing organic carbon levels below 12%. Performance of the conceptual model (r2 = 0.49) was found to be comparable with a multiple linear regression model (r2 = 0.49) and outperformed models developed using an artificial neural network (r2 = 0.47) and a regression tree (r2 = 0.43). Further development of the conceptual model should allow the inclusion of soil morphological data to improve bulk‐density predictions.
SOURCING OBSIDIAN FROM NEOLITHIC ÇATALHÖYÜK (TURKEY) USING ENERGY DISPERSIVE X‐RAY FLUORESCENCE*
Authors: CARTER T. , SHACKLEY M. S.
Published: July 2007

This paper details the chemical sourcing of 42 obsidian artefacts from a single Neolithic structure at Çatalhöyük (central Anatolia), using Energy Dispersive X‐Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF). The chemical signatures of the samples match those of two geological sources in southern Cappadocia: East Göllü Dağ and Nenezi Dağ. The data provide a counterpoint for previous analyses at the site, and suggest possible intra‐community distinctions with regard to shifts in raw material procurement and technical change.
Presumptive Baclofen Intoxication in a Dog
Authors: Hecht Daniel V. , Allenspach Karin
Published: July 2007

A five year old mixed breed dog weighing 30 kg., presumptively ingested six to twelve 20 mg baclofen tablets four to six hours prior to admission. The dog had been ataxic and vocalizing at home but was stuporous on presentation. Toxic effects noted were hypothermia, hypertension and sedation, followed by prolonged agitation. Treatment consisted of administration of activated charcoal, fluid diuresis, sodium nitroprusside, and diazepam. Baclofen overdose has been reported frequently in humans, but this is the first report of it in a dog. (Vet Emerg & Crit Care, 1998; 8: 49–54)
The Impact of Plasma High‐Sensitivity C‐Reactive Protein Levels on Cardiovascular Risk Stratification of Hypertensive Patients: Results of the ICEBERG Study
Authors: Kozan Omer , Buyukozturk Kemalettin , Ilerigelen Baris , Kabakci Giray , Koylan Nevrez ,   ICEBERG Investigators
Published: July 2007

The Intensive/Initial Cardiovascular Examination Regarding Blood Pressure Levels: Evaluation of Risk Groups (ICEBERG) study focused on the impact of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) measurement on cardiovascular risk evaluation. The ICEBERG study comprised 2 subprotocols. Each subprotocol had 2 patient profiles: patients previously diagnosed with essential hypertension and under medical treatment and patients with systolic blood pressure 130 mm Hg or higher, or diastolic blood pressure 85 mm Hg or higher, with no treatment for at least 3 months before inclusion. Measurement of hs‐CRP and cardiovascular risk stratification were performed according to European Society of Hypertension/European Society of Cardiology (ESH/ESC) guidelines. A total of 1817 patients were analyzed. In 1 group, the percentage of patients in “high” plus “very high” added‐risk groups increased from 59.2% to 72.7% when hs‐CRP data were added to routine serum biochemistries. In another, the increase was from 66.9% to 77.9%, whereas in a third group, it changed from 65.1% to 77.2%. The use of plasma hs‐CRP levels might help in stratifying hypertensive patients into specific risk groups and modifying preventive approaches.
Comparison of Pulse Wave Analysis Between Persons With White Coat Hypertension and Normotensive Persons
Authors: Wimmer Neil J. , Sathi Kinji , Chen Tiffany L. , Townsend Raymond R. , Cohen Debbie L.
Published: July 2007

White coat hypertension (WCH) is considered by some but not all investigators to be a benign condition without increased cardiovascular risk. Pulse wave analysis is a noninvasive method to measure how the reflected pressure wave interacts with central aortic blood pressure (BP) and to assess how it is related to vascular stiffness. The purpose of the study was to compare central aortic BP in normotensive and WCH participants. WCH participants were identified after ambulatory BP monitoring. Normotensive participants served as controls. Using radial artery applanation tonometry, aortic pulse wave analysis was performed. Augmentation index (AI), AI75, and differences in systolic BP between central aortic and peripheral vasculatures were calculated. Results show a difference in AI, AI75, (AI standardized to a heart rate of 75 beats per minute), and central aortic systolic pressures between WCH and normotensive participants. The WCH group had significantly higher systolic BP and pulse pressure; however, these were still within the normal range. In summary, WCH participants had increased central aortic pressures compared with normotensives, supporting the potential for increased cardiovascular risk in WCH.
Feasibility, Accuracy, and Clinical Relevance of a Rapid Thyroid Evaluation During Carotid Duplex Ultrasonography in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Natale Francesco , Tedesco Michele Adolfo , Mocerino Rosa , Rinaldi Genny , Tassinario Guido , De Simone Vincenzo , Gregorio Giovanni , Calabrò Raffaele
Published: July 2007

Carotid ultrasonography can detect thyroid nodules without increasing examination duration. The authors analyzed whether management is influenced by reporting such findings during routine carotid ultrasonography in hypertensive patients vs waiting for 6 months to repeat them. This is a population‐based study of 1216 hypertensive patients. During carotid ultrasonography, nodule cystic/solid characteristics and size of thyroid changes were recorded. Patients with nodules were divided into those with nodules reported at the moment of diagnosis (group A) and those reported 6 months after diagnosis (group B). The authors monitored patients who underwent thyroid treatment 12 months after carotid ultrasonography. A total of 255 participants had thyroid nodules detected on screening and 99 patients started therapy after discovery. Six months later, as expected, there were more patients undergoing thyroid treatment in the group with nodules reported at time of diagnosis. This difference between groups was not significant, however, 6 months after reporting the nodules, in group B, because the number of patients on therapy significantly increased. Thyroid nodules cannot be ignored during carotid ultrasonography, and reporting their presence is valuable to general practitioners. Thyroid screening during carotid ultrasonography is cost‐effective, rapid, sensitive, and specific and may affect the patient's diagnostic and therapeutic management.
Pioglitazone Decreases Ambulatory Blood Pressure in Type 2 Diabetics With Difficult‐to‐Control Hypertension
Authors: Rivas Beatriz de , Luque Manuel , Martell Nieves , Fernández Cristina , Fernández‐Cruz Arturo
Published: July 2007

Blood pressure (BP) control at recently established goals of <130/80 mm Hg is often difficult to achieve in diabetic patients. This work examines the effect of pioglitazone on 24‐hour ambulatory BP monitoring in patients with type 2 diabetes and difficult‐to‐control hypertension. Twenty‐seven participants with difficult‐to‐control hypertension (defined as ambulatory BP monitoring ≥125/75 mm Hg) taking antihypertensive medications (mean, 4.1±0.8 drugs) were enrolled in an open, prospective, blinded end point study of add‐on therapy with pioglitazone 30 to 45 mg for 20 weeks. After 20 weeks of treatment, 24‐hour ambulatory BP monitoring showed significant reductions (from 144±13 to 136±16 mm Hg systolic BP and from 79±9 to 76±10 mm Hg diastolic BP [P=.001]). Treatment was also associated with improvements in insulin sensitivity and glycemic and lipid profile. These findings suggest that pioglitazone could be a therapeutic option in diabetics who still have elevated BP values in spite of receiving treatment with at least 3 antihypertensive drugs.
Microalbuminuria, Chronic Renal Disease, and the Effects of the Metabolic Syndrome on Cardiovascular Events
Authors: Moser Marvin , Sowers James R. , Black Henry R.
Published: July 2007

In March 2007, a panel discussion was held following a hypertension symposium in New York, New York. The panel was moderated by Marvin Moser, MD, Clinical Professor of Medicine at the Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut. Serving on the panel were James R. Sowers, MD, Professor of Medicine and Physiology at the University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, and Henry R. Black, MD, Clinical Professor of Medicine at the New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York. This expert panel discussion was supported by Novartis and each author received an honorarium from Novartis for time and effort spent participating in the discussion and reviewing the transcript for important intellectual content prior to publication. The authors maintained full control of the discussion and the resulting content of this article; Novartis had no input in the choice of topic, speakers, or content.
Less Is Not More: Underutilization of Headache Medications in a University Hospital Emergency Department
Authors: Gupta Madhavi X. , Silberstein Stephen D. , Young William B. , Hopkins Mary , Lopez Bernard L. , Samsa Gregory P.
Published: July 2007

Objective.—To gain knowledge of episodic headache patients who seek care at an urban university emergency department (ED), to evaluate the care they receive and to examine the impact of the ED on these headache patients.

Background.—In the United States, 1% of all ED visits are for the chief complaint of headache. The ED has a significant role in the identification and treatment of primary headache sufferers.

Methods.—Patients who presented to the ED with a chief complaint of headache were prospectively administered a patient survey, the PRIME‐MD Patient Health Questionnaire, and MIDAS. Inclusion criteria: any patient 18 years or older with a nontraumatic headache of less than 1 month in duration. The patients included had episodic headache. Exclusion criteria: any patient with a history of a lumbar puncture or epidural procedure in the previous 7 days or those with chronic daily headache. Patients who met criteria were asked questions about headache type, health care utilization, satisfaction, co‐morbid illnesses, and demographics. A neurologist independently reviewed the ED chart.

Results.—A total of 219 of 364 patients were eligible and consented. The median age was 34. Most (147, 67.1%) were women; 104 (47.5%) were diagnosed with migraine or probable migraine by chart review; 36% did not have enough information for a neurologist to code a diagnosis. Relatively few headache‐specific medications were used 24 hours prior to ED arrival. Only 5% of patients were on headache‐preventive medication. Patients commonly received neuroleptics (dopamine antagonists 98 [67.5%]) or opioids (93 [64.1%]) in the ED; however, 74 (33.8%) subjects received neither medication nor IV fluids. Upon leaving the ED, 21.8% were pain free and 89 (40.6%) patients were asked to follow‐up with a physician. A total of 137 (62.6%) patients had no documented discharge medications. One person received a prescription for a preventive medication. Sixty‐four percent of those who returned the diary reported that the headache returned within 24 hours of leaving the ED.

Conclusions.—Migraine ICHD‐2 criteria are underused, and patients are undertreated in the ED. Many patients leave without a discharge diagnosis, outpatient medications, or instructions. ED physicians could help identify the migraineurs and channel them toward appropriate outpatient treatment.
Prevalence and Correlates of Sleep‐Disordered Breathing in Older Men: Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Sleep Study
Authors: Mehra Reena , Stone Katie L. , Blackwell Terri , Ancoli Israel Sonia , Dam Thuy‐Tien L. , Stefanick Marcia L. , Redline Susan ,   for the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study
Published: July 2007

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence and distribution of sleep‐disordered breathing and associated correlates in a large cohort of older men using several standardized definitions.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional analyses.

SETTING: Six U.S. communities.

PARTICIPANTS: Polysomnography was performed on 2,911 participants of the Outcomes of Sleep Disorders in Older Men Sleep Study (mean age±standard deviation 76.38±5.53; body mass index 27.17±3.8 kg/m2).

MEASUREMENTS: Three outcomes were assessed: sleep‐disordered breathing (respiratory disturbance index ≥15), obstructive apnea (obstructive apnea index ≥5), and central apnea (central apnea index ≥5).

RESULTS: The prevalence of moderate–severe sleep‐disordered breathing was estimated to be 21.4% to 26.4%. Multivariable logistic regression models demonstrated that age (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) per 5‐year increase =1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.15–1.34), obesity (AOR=2.54, 95% CI=2.09–3.09), Asian versus Caucasian race (AOR=2.14, 95% CI=1.33–3.45), snoring (AOR=2.01, 95% CI=1.62–2.49), sleepiness (AOR=1.41, 95% CI=1.11–1.79), hypertension (AOR=1.26, 95% CI=1.06–1.50), cardiovascular disease (AOR=1.24, 95% CI=1.19–1.29), and heart failure (AOR=1.81, 1.31–2.51) were independently associated with sleep‐disordered breathing; snoring (AOR=2.10, 95% CI=1.67–2.70), age (AOR per 5‐year increase=1.27, 95% CI=1.18–1.38), obesity (AOR=1.48, 95% CI=1.21–1.82), and heart failure (AOR=1.60, 95% CI=1.15–2.24) were associated with obstructive apnea; and age (AOR=1.33, 1.17–1.50) and heart failure (AOR=1.88, 95% CI=1.17–3.04) were associated with central apnea.

CONCLUSION: Regardless of definition, a high prevalence of sleep disorders is observed in community‐dwelling older men. Qualitatively similar associations were observed between sleep disorders and snoring, obesity, and comorbidities, as reported for middle aged populations. Asian race was associated with sleep‐disordered breathing.
Epilepsy Surgery in the Frontal Lobe: Terra Incognita or New Frontier?
Authors: Miller John W.
Published: July 2007

Surgical Outcome and Prognostic Factors of Frontal Lobe Epilepsy Surgery. Jeha LE, Najm I, Bingaman W, Dinner D, Widdess-Walsh P, Luders H. Brain 2007;130(Pt 2):574–584. Epub 2007 Jan 5. Frontal lobe epilepsy (FLE) surgery is the second most common surgery performed to treat pharmacoresistant epilepsy. Yet, little is known about long-term seizure outcome following frontal lobectomy. The aim of this study is to investigate the trends in longitudinal outcome and identify potential prognostic indicators in a cohort of FLE patients investigated using modern diagnostic techniques. We reviewed 70 patients who underwent a frontal lobectomy between 1995 and 2003 (mean follow-up 4.1 ± 3 years). Data were analysed using survival analysis and multivariate regression with Cox proportional hazard models. A favourable outcome was defined as complete seizure-freedom, allowing for auras and seizures restricted to the first post-operative week. The estimated probability of complete seizure-freedom was 55.7% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 50–62] at 1 post-operative year, 45.1% (95% CI = 39–51) at 3 years, and 30.1% (95% CI = 21–39) at 5 years. Eighty per cent of seizure recurrences occurred within the first 6 post-operative months. Late remissions and relapses occurred, but were rare. After multivariate analysis, the following variables retained their significance as independent predictors of seizure recurrence: MRI-negative malformation of cortical development as disease aetiology [risk ratio (RR) = 2.22, 95% CI = 1.40–3.47], any extrafrontal MRI abnormality (RR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.12–2.69), generalized/non-localized ictal EEG patterns (RR = 1.83, 95% CI = 1.15–2.87), occurrence of acute post-operative seizures (RR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.50–3.14) and incomplete surgical resection (RR = 2.56, 95% CI = 1.66–4.05) (log likelihood-ratio test P-value < 0.0001). More than half of patients in favourable prognostic categories were seizure-free at 3 years, and up to 40% were seizure-free at 5 years, compared to <15% in those with unfavourable outcome predictors. These data underscore the importance of appropriate selection of potential surgical candidates.
Glutamate Receptors: Finally Fingered in Inherited Epilepsy?
Authors: Poolos Nicholas P.
Published: July 2007

Epilepsy-Related Ligand/Receptor Complex LGI1 and ADAM22 Regulate Synaptic Transmission. Fukata Y, Adesnik H, Iwanaga T, Bredt DS, Nicoll RA, Fukata M. Science 2006;313(5794):1792–1795. Abnormally synchronized synaptic transmission in the brain causes epilepsy. Most inherited forms of epilepsy result from mutations in ion channels. However, one form of epilepsy, autosomal dominant partial epilepsy with auditory features (ADPEAF), is characterized by mutations in a secreted neuronal protein, LGI1. We show that ADAM22, a transmembrane protein that when mutated itself causes seizure, serves as a receptor for LGI1. LGI1 enhances AMPA receptor-mediated synaptic transmission in hippocampal slices. The mutated form of LGI1 fails to bind to ADAM22. ADAM22 is anchored to the postsynaptic density by cytoskeletal scaffolds containing stargazin. These studies in rat brain indicate possible avenues for understanding human epilepsy.
Transcatheter Closure of Residual Atrial Septal Defects After Surgical Closure
Authors: CHESSA MASSIMO , BUTERA GIANFRANCO , GIAMBERTI ALESSANDRO , BINI ROBERTA MARGHERITA , CARMINATI MARIO
Published: July 2007

The repair of an ostium secundum atrial septal defects (ASDs) by an open heart operation is a safe procedure associated with low mortality and morbidity. Transcatheter closure of ASDs is a less invasive method of repairing ASDs and may also be the procedure of first choice in residual postsurgical ASD.
Occlusion of a Saphenous Vein Graft Aneurysm with a Vein‐Covered Stent
Authors: DDCON SIMON R. , SKELDING KIMBERLY A. , FRUMIN HOWARD I. , O'NEILL WILLIAM W.
Published: July 2007

A 67‐year‐old man was admitted with unstable angina, 15 years after saphenous vein graft bypass surgery. Cardiac catheterization demonstrated a large saccular aneurysm arising from the proximal segment of the vein graft to the obtuse marginal artery. Intravascular ultrasound revealed the opening of the aneurysm that measured 15 mm in length. The aneurysm was successfully occluded by deployment of a vein‐covered stent.
Vulnerable Plaque: The Pathology of Unstable Coronary Lesions
Authors: VIRMANI RENU , BURKE ALLEN P. , KOLODGIE FRANK D. , FARB ANDREW
Published: July 2007

Vulnerable plagues have been defined as precursors to lesions that rupture. However, coronary thrombosis may occur from other lesions like plaque erosion and calcified nodules, although to a lesser frequency than rupture. Therefore, the definition of vulnerable plaque should be all‐inclusive. Using descriptive terminology, the authors define the precursor lesion of plaque rupture as “thin‐cap fibroatheroma” (TCFA). Morphologically, TCFAs have a necrotic core with an overlying thin fibrous cap (< 65 mm) consisting of collagen type I, which is infiltrated by macrophages. These lesions are most frequent in the coronary tree of patients dying with acme myocardial infarction and least common in those with plaque erosion. TCFAs are more common in patients with high serum total cholesterol (TC) and a high TC to high density cholesterol ratio, in women >50 years, and in those patients with elevated levels of high sensitivity C‐reactive protein. TCFAs are mostly found in the proximal left anterior descending coronary arteries and less commonly in the proximal right or the proximal left circumflex coronary arteries. In TCFAs, necrotic core length is ˜ 2–17 mm (mean 8 mm) and the underlying cross‐sectional luminal narrowing in over 75% of cases is < 75% (< 50% diameter stenosis). The area of the necrotic core in at least 75% of cases is ≤3 mm2. Clinical studies of TCFAs are limited as angiography and intravascular ultrasound (TVUS) catheters cannot precisely identify these lesions. Newer catheters and other techniques are at various stages of development and will play a significant role in the understanding of plaque progression and the development of symptomatic coronary artery disease.
Initial Experience with Paclitaxel‐Coated Stents
Authors: GRUBE EBERHARD , BÜLLESFELD LUTZ
Published: July 2007

Local delivery of immunosuppressive or antiproliferative agents using a drug‐eluting stent is a new technology that is supposed to inhibit in‐stent restenosis, thus providing a biological and mechanical solution. This technique is a very promising. To date, several agents have been used, including paclitaxel, QP‐2, rapamycin, actinomycin D, dexamethason, tacrolimus, and everolimus. Several studies, published recently or still ongoing, have evaluated these drugs as to their release kinetics, effective dosage, safety in clinical practice, and benefit. These studies include: SCORE (paclitaxel derivative), TAXUSl‐VI, ELUTES, ASPECT, DELIVER (paclitaxel), RAVEL, SIRIUS (sirolimus), ACTION (actinomycin), EVIDENT, PRESENT (tacrolimus), EMPEROR (dexamethason), and FUTURE (everolimus). Paclitaxel was one of the first stent‐based antiproliferative agents under clinical investigation that provided profound inhibition of neointimal thickening depending on delivery duration and drug dosage. The randomized, multicenter SCORE trail (Quanam stent, paclitaxel‐coated) enrolled 266 patients at 17 sites. At 6‐month's follow‐up, a drop of 83% in stent restenosis using the drug‐eluting stent could be achieved (6.4% drug‐eluting stent vs 36.9% control group), which was attributable to a remarkable decrease in intimal proliferation. Unfortunately, due to frequent stent thrombosis and side‐branch occlusions, the reported 30‐day MACE rate was 10.2%. The randomized TAXUS‐I safety trial (BSC, NIRx, paclitaxel‐coated) also demonstrated beneficial reduction of restenotic lesions at 6‐month's follow‐up (0% vs 10%) but was associated with the absence of thrombotic events presumably due to less drug dosage. The ongoing TAXUS II‐VI trials are addressing additional insight regarding the efficacy of the TAXUS paclitaxel‐eluting stent. ASPECT and ELUTES evaluated paclitaxel‐coated stents (i.e., Cook and Supra G), including subgroups with different drug dosages. With respect to stent restenosis and neointimal proliferation, both studies demonstrated a clear dose response. The RA VEL and the SIRIUS trials evaluated sirolimus‐coated stents (i.e., Cordis, Johnson AJohnson, and Bx VELOCITY stents). Results confirmed the beneficial findings regarding reduction of renarrowing using a drug‐eluting stent without any major adverse effects. Although parameters such as drug toxicity, optimal drug dosage, or delayed endothelial healing still need to be evaluated, today's clinical experience indicates that drug‐coated stents are extremely beneficial in the interventional treatment of coronary lesions. (J Interven Cardiol 2002;15:471–476)
Role of Distal Protection During Carotid Stenting
Authors: SIEVERT HORST , RABE KASJA
Published: July 2007

The most common complication of carotid angioplasty is distal embolization of debris and/or thrombus. The only way to avoid this complication is with the use of embolic protection devices. Several filters, distal balloon occlusion devices, and proximal balloon occlusion devices are available. These devices make it possible to capture arteriosclerotic debris during angioplasty and stenting. During the majority of procedures at least some particles can be retrieved. Therefore there is no doubt that these devices are important for carotid angioplasty. However, due to the low complication rate of carotid angioplasty even without embolic protection devices, large randomized trials are necessary to statistically prove the clinical efficacy of these devices.
A Unique Euplotid Ciliate, Gastrocirrhus (Protozoa, Ciliophora): Assessment of Its Phylogenetic Position Inferred from the Small Subunit rRNA Gene Sequence
Authors: MIAO MIAO , SONG WEIBO , CHEN ZIGUI , AL‐RASHEID KHALED A. S. , SHAO CHEN , JIANG JIAMEI , GUO WENBO
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT. The morphologically unique genus Gastrocirrhus has been considered a distinct but systematically uncertain euplotid due to the absence of both morphogenetic and molecular information. Based on the small subunit rRNA gene sequence, the phylogenetic position of Gastrocirrhus monilifer Ozaki & Yagui, 1942 was re‐addressed using multiple algorithms (neighbor‐joining, maximum parsimony, least‐squares, and Bayesian inference methods). Results indicate that: (1) all phylogenetic trees using different methods are nearly identical in topology, placing G. monilifer closest to Euplotidium arenarium; (2) Gastrocirrhus and Euplotidium form a monophyletic group, namely the family Gastrocirrhidae, and appear to be intermediate taxa bridging the evolution of the Diophrys‐Uronychia and Euplotes‐complexes (i.e. Euplotes, Certesia, and Aspidisca); (3) the order Euplotida is a paraphyletic group composed of three deeply diverged clades (Euplotes–Certesia–Aspidisca–Gastrocirrhus–Euplotidium; Uronychia–Diophrys; and Prodiscocephalus); (4) together with Prodiscocephalus, the Diophrys‐Uronychia complex forms a group at the suborder level and is placed at the root of the order Euplotida, and (5) results from molecular analyses conspicuously challenge the conclusions deduced from morphological as well as morphogenetical investigations—the characteristics traditionally used to define the euplotid taxa at the generic level and/or above may not be uniformly reliable.
Shortcomings of Neutrality in Mediation: Solutions Based on Rationality
Authors: Gibson Kevin , Thompson Leigh , Bazerman Max H.
Published: July 2007

The authors argue that much of the conventional wisdom about mediation is based on the concept of neutrality—a concept difficult to operationalize. They replace this approach with the goal of providing Symmetric Prescriptive Advice (SPA). SPA is based on Raiffa's decision theoretic approach to negotiation and mediation, coupled with an analysis of common cognitive errors that occur in mediation. SPA requires mediators to: (1) only push for agreements when a positive bargaining zone exists; (2) search for fully efficient agreements; and (3) help the parties think through the issue of fairness.
Employment Dispute Resolution Systems: Experience Grows But Some Questions Persist
Authors: Zinsser John W.
Published: July 2007

Brown & Root, a large private construction firm, has designed and implemented a dispute resolution system (DRS) that emphasizes early, informal handling of disputes. This article traces the development, implementation, and accomplishments of the system thus far. The author also describes the most controversial aspect of the system ‐ a pre‐dispute agreement to mandatory arbitration as a condition of employment.
Understanding Mediation's Role in Preventive Diplomacy
Authors: Bercovitch Jacob
Published: July 2007

The ever:increasing number of international conflicts, their complexity, intractability, and their costs, demands that the world focus more attention on preventive diplomacy. Mediation is a key component of preventive diplomacy. This article analyzes data on international conflict management from 1945 to 1990, and examines the factors that contributed to the success or failure of mediation.
Collaborative Bargaining in Public Universities
Authors: Dennison George M. , Drummond Marshall E. , Hobgood William P.
Published: July 2007

After 25 years of conflict style‐collective bargaining, certain colleges and universities within the United States are beginning to experiment with interest‐based or collaborative bargaining, using models taken from industrial experiments. This article describes the early experiences with interest‐based bargaining as practiced at two public universities. The bistorical development of interest‐based bargaining is provided, followed by a description of the process and outcomes of the use of the bargaining techniques at the two universities
Working to Prevent Conflict In the New Nation of Macedonia
Authors: Marks John , Fraenkel Eran
Published: July 2007

Despite appalling ethnic violence elsewhere in former Yugoslavia, Macedonia has stayed relatively peaceful, thus providing a model of successful conflict prevention. The authors, whose organization leads a nongovernmental consortium to help defuse ethnic tensions in Macedonia, believe violence has been largely avoided because Macedonian leaders have demonstrated sufficient political will and because the international community has applied an appropriate mix of diplomatic, economic, military, psychological, and conflict resolution measures.
Ten Ways that Culture Affects Negotiating Style: Some Survey Results
Authors: Salacuse Jeswald W.
Published: July 2007

A survey of 310 persons of different nationalities and occupations asked respondents to rate their negotiating styles with respect to ten factors involved in the negotiation process. These factors included a preference for: a written contract in contrast to relationship‐building as a negotiating goal; an integrative (win‐win) as opposed to a distributive (win‐lose) bargaining approach; and high rather than low tolerance for risk‐taking. Reporting on the responses of persons from 12 countries and eight different occupations, this study finds that, in many instances, persons from the same cultures and occupations tended to respond to these negotiating elements in a similar fashion. Survey responses were also examined with respect to the respondents’ gender. The studty would appear to support the proposition that culture, occupational background, and gender can influence negoating style.
Track II Diplomacy: From a Track I Perspective
Authors: Chataway Cynthia J.
Published: July 2007

Huge changes are taking place in international diplomacy which have created an opening and a certain appreciation for the contributions that can be made by private citizens to international peacemaking. This article provides a snapshot of diplomatic thinking about Track II/nonofficial diplomacy, from interviews with distinguished American diplomats. As thoughts of two‐way collaboration develop, it becomes increasingly important to be clear about the limits and potentially unique contributions of Track II. Open respectful dialogue between Tracks I and II is also necessary to overcome past resentments and to develop mechanisms by which the skills and insights of Track II can be fed into Track I, with greater effectiveness and integrity.
Process in Cross‐Cultural Negotiations
Authors: Kopelman Shirli , Olekalns Mara
Published: July 2007

This essay describes the four broad themes that emerged from our discussion about the role of process in cross‐cultural negotiations and considers their implications for future research. First, we address the nature of the conflict, in particular whether a negotiation is classified as a dispute or a transactional exchange. Second, we contrast the role of cognition and rapport in negotiations and consider when rapport replaces the centrality of cognition. We also discuss the extent to which negotiating processes create relationships based on trust or power, and consider how cultural values influence the development of these underlying relationships. Finally, we consider the role of culture in defining what is perceived as an optimal outcome and raise the possibility that suboptimal outcomes may hold symbolic value in cross‐cultural negotiations.
The Organizational Ombudsman as Change Agent
Authors: Wagner Marsha L.
Published: July 2007

Though the organizational ombudsman's role may sometimes be regarded as only a facilitator of individual problem solving, in fact the ombudsperson is ideally situated within the organization to make recommendations for systemic change, based on patterns of complaint brought to the office. Indeed, the ombuds is obligated to take steps to prevent future recurrence of a problem, as well as to resolve the problem at hand. Furthermore, because of the ombuds’ broad understanding of the organizational culture, the needs of its leaders and other stakeholders, the ombuds office ‐ in addition to being a vital component of the organization's conflict management system ‐ may also participate in designing, evaluating and improving the entire dispute resolution system for the organization.
Facing the Decisions One Should Make and the Decisions One Wants to Make
Authors: Conlon Donald E. , Moon Henry
Published: July 2007

Authors of two recent books, Smart Choices and The Win‐Win‐Solution, offer negotiation practitioners some new twists on how they can improve their decision‐making processes. In the first book, Hammond, Keeney, and Raiffa present a five‐part “PrOACT” system, which features: an assessment of the problem; determination of objectives; exploration of alternatives; comprehension of the consequences; and dealing with tradeoffs. The second book, by Brams and Taylor, outlines four settlement options that are available to decision makers, but advocates an “adjusted winner” approach. The authors have devised a system in which individuals’ subjective assessments of particular items in dispute receive point totals, which can then be divided in an equitable manner. In effect, the authors show readers how to deal with the decisions they should make, and those they want to make.
Taking Stock: An Analysis of Negotiation Pedagogy across Four Professional Fields
Authors: Fortgang Ron S.
Published: July 2007

This essay analyzes the results of an informal, though extensive, interviewbased survey of how negotiation is taught in four distinct fields ‐ law, business, public policy and planning, and international relations. Beyond their similarities, the author points out key underlying differences among the four areas; suggests ways in which insights might be transferred from one context to another, and speculates on some ideas that lie on the borizon for negotiation courses in the decade abead.
Teaching Interpersonal Skills for Negotiation and for Life
Authors: Bordone Robert C.
Published: July 2007

Students enrolled in the Negotiation Workshop at Harvard Law School during the past twenty years have participated in an innovative exercise called the Interpersonal Skills Exercise (IPS). Developed through a collaboration of therapists and instructors from Harvard Law School, the exercise uses role plays, videotaping, and certain aspects of psychodrama to help students practice interpersonal skills that they have difficulty performing. The exercise allows students to work in an intensive, safe, and interactive environment with feedback from peers and course instructors. This brief note describes the IPS exercise in more detail, outlining its origins, purposes, and structure.
The Wrong Mental Image of Settlement
Authors: Honeyman Christopher
Published: July 2007

Negotiation participants usually think of “settlement” as the official end of a coflict; the author points out that this mental image is inaccurate in many situations, where a settlement is followed by additional eruptions of conflict. He uses the recent Good Friday peace accord in Northern Ireland as an example of the continuing nature of many conflicts; theorizes as to why we have this incorrect mental image in general; and suggests ways we can present a more accurate representatin of a conflict's life cycle.
Another Look at Identity‐Based Conflict: The Roots of Conflct: The Roots of Conflict in the Psychology of Consciousness
Authors: Hicks Tim
Published: July 2007

Conflict scholars and practitionsers have devoted much effort to understanding why differences sometimes escalate into full‐blown conflicts. But not enough attention has been paid to the psychological and physiological process of “reality formation and identity formation” inherent in the nature of individual human consciousness. The author shows how the functions of identity and reality formation pervade human activity, and how they are particularly connected to conflict. This theoretical construct has a variety of implications for mediators and dispute resolution in general, which the author illustrates with a series of brief case examples.
In Practice: Principles of Persuasion
Authors: Watkins Michael
Published: July 2007

Drawing on the literatures on negotiation, communication, and persuasion as well as his research on organizational transformation, the author proposes a framework for understanding and enacting the persuasion process in organizations. He lays out key goals of persuasion and ways that skilled leaders can manage the process. The framework focuses attention on the ways leaders shape perceptions of interests and alternatives, as well as how they persuade one‐on‐one and from a distance. He also highlights the importance of gaining acceptance of ough, unpopular decisions, nothing that the way leaders manage the process can have a major impact on outcomes in such situations.