bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Holocene Elevated Sea Levels on the North Coast of Vietnam
Authors: Boyd William Edgar , Lam Doan Dinh
Published: March 2004

We present evidence of elevated Holocene sea levels on the north coast of Vietnam, comprising radiocarbon dating of raised coastal geomorphological and palaeobiological features at localities on the margins of the Bac Bo (Red River) Plain. This evidence indicates that by ca. 5500 cal yr B.P. mid‐tide lay approximately 5.4 m above national datum, that is 3.25 m above present local mid‐tide. By c. 3500 cal yr B.P., sea level was lowering and, by ca. 2000 cal yr B.P., mid‐tide lay at or above 1.5 m above present local mid‐tide. It is not yet possible to infer patterns of sea‐level fluctuation other than an overall lowering of elevation, although the separation of the raised and modern erosion notches does suggest two dominant mid to late Holocene periods of erosion — probably periods of sea‐level still‐stand or relatively slow sea‐level change. The intervening period of relatively rapid sea‐level change and associated reduced erosion probably dates to after ca. 2000 cal yr B.P..
Decentralisation and Environmental Management in Australia: a Comment on the Prescriptions of The Wentworth Group
Authors: Lane Marcus B. , McDonald G. T. , Morrison T. H.
Published: March 2004

The prescriptions of The Wentworth Group of scientists for delivering improved environmental management and remediation are reviewed against the backdrop of international experience with decentralisation. The Group's preferred means of implementation — here referred to as decentralised regionalism — is examined and shown to be idealised and therefore naive to its complexities and potential pitfalls. Five problem areas are highlighted: 1. defining a ‘region’; 2. power, conflict and community; 3. developing mechanisms for accountability; 4. subsidiarity, and 5. the tensions between democracy and technocracy
Surveying for Mars Analogue Research Sites in the Central Australian Deserts
Authors: Mann G. A. , Clarke J. D. A. , Gostin V. A.
Published: March 2004

In anticipation of a future crewed mission to Mars, the international non‐profit organisation known as the Mars Society is currently establishing four mockup bases at which planetary surface operations simulations, equipment testing and personnel training exercises will be conducted over the next decade. These should provide valuable design data for, and raise public awareness about, plans to explore the red planet. One of these bases, which are organised around a habitat of the kind that is likely to serve as shelter for surface‐dwelling astronauts, is to be sited in central Australia under the name MARS‐OZ. To find a suitable location, the Mars Society Australia has conducted a ground‐truth survey of 15 potential sites as practical scientific analogues of the Martian surface, recording these in a specialised database. Each site was assessed on a set of geomorphic, science/engineering, logistic and visual analogue criteria. Six circular exploration zones 200 km in diameter were identified as clusters of the most significant, observed, comparative planetological features. These zones were then ranked to recommend a series of ‘landing sites’, at which future field seasons of exploratory science may be conducted.
The “Transformation” of Governance: New Directions in Policy and Politics
Authors: Loughlin John
Published: March 2004

The terms transformation and governance are used increasingly in the academic literature but often in a confused way. This article attempts to define both terms. It argues that there are three kinds of transformation: pseudo‐change; incremental evolutionary transformation (IET), which is the most common form; and revolutionary transformation (RT). It applies this model of change to three paradigm shifts in developed countries since 1945: the Welfare State; the neo‐liberal state; and the so‐called Third Way. It argues that each of these paradigms involves a particular dominant mode of governance: statist; pluralist; and network respectively. It examines both the causes and consequences of these transformations for politics and policy.
Value Pluralism and Multinational Federalism
Authors: Requejo Ferran
Published: March 2004

This article is mainly concerned with the notion of value pluralism. In the first section I present it as a theory of the structure of moral normativity in liberal democracies, and defend its greater suitability compared with rival theories in attempting to revise democratic liberalism from the perspective of the cultural, national and normative pluralism of present‐day democracies. In the second section, I link value pluralism with multinational federations in order to discuss its role in establishing the recognition of national pluralism, a plurinational division of powers, the participation of the different national collectives in the processes of constitutional reform, and the constitutional regulation of the right of self‐determination, following the 1998 decision of the Canadian Supreme Court.
Transcending the National / Asserting the National: How Stateless Nations like Scotland, Wales and Catalonia React to European Integration
Authors: Nagel Klaus‐Jürgen
Published: March 2004

How can minority nations, how can minority nationalists who assert their national identity not only accept, but in some cases even actively fight for a process of European integration which may have started to “transcend the national”? The article discusses what Europe has to offer them, and in what ways that offer may be “flawed”. It will compare nationalist strategies (Europe of the Regions, Independence in Europe), and establish relations between the choice of an European strategy and the consolidation of minority nationalism at home.
Cyprus from 1960 to EU Accession: The Case for Non‐Territorial Autonomy
Authors: Dundas Guy
Published: March 2004

The political history of Cyprus illustrates the difficulty of instituting political power‐sharing and cultural autonomy in states where multiple ethnic groups are present, particularly where they are territorially intermixed. Contemporary political realities relating to the accession of the island to the European Union demonstrate that old and new approaches to these issues are still in need of evaluation. This article seeks to explore an “old” method for reconciling the needs of Cyprus' two ethnic groups —“non‐territorial autonomy” as embodied in the island's failed 1960 Constitution. It also examines the potential relevance of this concept for a fully European Cyprus, in which the right to free movement of Greeks and Turks throughout the island may recreate an environment of intermixed heterogeneity, and thus stimulate the need for appropriate political institutions.
Federalism: Distance and Devolution
Authors: Wilkins Roger B.
Published: March 2004

Is the current federal system in Australia still relevant? Have the historical forces which made federation a necessary step in Australia's journey toward nationhood largely disappeared? Australian federalism has united six disparate states into one nation and established national infrastructure to enhance our position domestically and internationally. The geographic tyranny of distance that divided the colonies has been overcome through improved transport, telecommunications and information technology. This article explores the historical basis of Australian federalism and asks whether federalism remains relevant for meeting the challenges facing Australia in the twenty‐first century.
Factors for Integration? Transnational Party Cooperation in the European Parliament, 1952–79
Authors: Murray Philomena
Published: March 2004

The idea that supranational institutions of the European Union (EU) such as the European Parliament (EP) actively promote integration has been manifest in discourses of the European Community (EC) since the 1950s. There is less evidence that parties in the EP do so, partly because their existence at the European level is a relatively new phenomenon. It is also problematic, as these parties do not constitute a European party system above the state. The article traces the development of transnational cooperative links among the parties of the European Parliament from 1952 to 1979, and illustrates that, from the earliest stages of European Integration, party representatives participating in the newly established Assembly chose to adopt political stances, organisational structures and norms that were transnational and supranational in style and representation.
Jack Curtin and Ben Chifley: A Day in their Lives
Authors: Lenihan Denis
Published: March 2004

Books reviewed in this article:

David Day, John Curtin: a Life

David Day, Ben Chifley
Tourism in Australia and Hawai'i: Historical Perspectives
Authors: Lafferty George , Van Fossen Anthony
Published: March 2004

Books reviewed in this article:

Jim Davidson and Peter Spearritt, Holiday Business: Tourism in Australia since 1870

Mansel G. Blackford, Fragile Paradise: The Impact of Tourism on Maui, 1959‐2000
Sharing Death and Dying: Advance Directives, Autonomy and the Family
Authors: Chan Ho Mun
Published: March 2004

This paper critically examines the liberal model of decision making for the terminally ill and contrasts it with the familial model that can be found in some Asian cultures. The contrast between the two models shows that the liberal model is excessively patient‐centred, and misconceives and marginalises the role of the family in the decision making process. The paper argues that the familial model is correct in conceiving the last journey of one's life as a sharing process rather than a process of exercising one's prior or counterfactual choice, and concludes by suggesting a policy framework for the practice of familialism that can answer the liberal challenge that familialism cannot safeguard the patient from abuse and neglect.
Cruel Choices: Autonomy and Critical Care Decision‐Making
Authors: Meyers Christopher
Published: March 2004

Although autonomy is clearly still the paradigm in bioethics, there is increasing concern over its value and feasibility. In agreeing with those concerns, I argue that autonomy is not just a status, but a skill, one that must be developed and maintained. I also argue that nearly all healthcare interactions do anything but promote such decisional skills, since they rely upon assent, rather than upon genuinely autonomous consent. Thus, throughout most of their medical lives, patients are socialised to be heteronomous, rather than autonomous. Yet, at the worst possible time – critical care decision‐making – when life and death consequences are attached to the choices, the paradigm shifts and real consent is sought, even demanded, thereby making an often traumatic situation even harder.

I go on, though, to also reject paternalistic models of beneficence as an alternative. Rather, I conclude that the problem is so fundamental in healthcare that a genuine solution would require a radical restructuring. I recommend steps that can be taken in the interim to improve the situation and to move toward such a restructuring.
The Deprivation Argument Against Abortion
Authors: Stretton Dean
Published: March 2004

The most plausible pro‐life argument claims that abortion is seriously wrong because it deprives the foetus of something valuable. This paper examines two recent versions of this argument. Don Marquis's version takes the valuable thing to be a ‘future like ours’, a future containing valuable experiences and activities. Jim Stone's version takes the valuable thing to be a future containing conscious goods, which it is the foetus's biological nature to make itself have. I give three grounds for rejecting these arguments. First, they lead to unacceptable inequalities in the wrongness of killing. Second, they lead to counterintuitive results in a range of imaginary cases. Third, they ignore the role of psychological connectedness in determining the magnitude or seriousness of deprivation‐based harms: because the foetus is only weakly psychologically connected to its own future, it cannot be seriously harmed by being deprived of that future.
Respiratory function in pregnancy at sea level and at high altitude
Authors: McAuliffe Fionnuala , Kametas Nikos , Espinoza Jimmy , Greenough Anne , Nicolaides Kypros
Published: March 2004

Objective  To determine the effect of pregnancy on respiratory function in a non‐Caucasian group and determine whether there was an interaction between pregnancy and altitude of residence.

Design  Prospective cross sectional study.

Setting  Antenatal clinics in Peru, at sea level in Lima and at high altitude in Cerro de Pasco.

Sample  Peruvian women with singleton pregnancies; 122 living at sea level and 192 living at 4300 m altitude in the Peruvian Andes. At each location, 19 non‐pregnant women were also studied.

Methods  Respiratory function was measured in pregnant and non‐pregnant women living at sea level and at 4300 m.

Main outcome measures  Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), total lung capacity (TLC), inspiratory capacity (IC), residual volume (RV), expiratory residual volume (ERV) and functional residual capacity (FRC).

Results  At sea level, RV and TLC were higher in the third compared with the first trimester (P < 0.05). At high altitude, FEV1 (P < 0.01), ERV (P < 0.01) and FRC (P < 0.01) were lower in the third compared with the first trimester. Pregnant and non‐pregnant women at high altitude were 4 cm shorter (P < 0.0001) and had larger lung volumes (P < 0.01); their total lung capacities were approximately 1 L greater than women living at sea level (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion  These results suggest that the effect of pregnancy on the respiratory function of healthy women is influenced by altitude of residence.
Pain, quality of life and complications following the radical resection of rectovaginal endometriosis
Authors: Ford Jolyon , English James , Miles William A. , Giannopoulos Theo
Published: March 2004

Objective  To determine the long term response, quality of life and levels of pain following the radical excision of rectovaginal endometriosis.

Design  A cohort study.

Setting  A tertiary referral centre for the management of advanced endometriosis.

Sample  All patients who had undergone radical resection.

Methods  Case note review and patient questionnaire.

Main outcome measures  Surgical complications. Overall improvement. Dysmenorrhoea, dyspareunia, dyschezia and chronic pain were measured using a visual analogue scale. Quality of life was measured using the EQ‐5D questionnaire.

Results  Twelve radical resections were performed by laparotomy, 48 by laparoscopy. Ten patients had a hysterectomy. Forty‐eight patients underwent shaving of the pre‐rectal fascia, two had a disc resection of the rectum, 10 had an anterior rectal resection. Two patients required a colostomy and two needed subsequent dilation of a stenosed anastomosis. Forty‐four of the first 46 patients replied. The median follow up period was 12 months (range 2 to 22 months) and 86% (38/44) reported an improvement or whom 27 (61%) had a good response (pain completely gone or greatly improved). Patients having a hysterectomy or a disc or segmental resection of the rectum reported a good response and had a normal quality of life. Quality of life scores in the study group overall were lower than the background population.

Conclusions  Radical resection is an effective treatment for rectovaginal endometriosis. Hysterectomy and rectal resection were associated with a better response and quality of life.
Cross sectional study of automated blood pressure measurements throughout pregnancy
Authors: Ochsenbein‐Kölble N. , Roos M. , Gasser T. , Huch R. , Huch A. , Zimmermann R.
Published: March 2004

Objective  To generate reliable new reference ranges for pregnancy blood pressure from a large population.

Design  A prospective cross sectional study.

Setting  Obstetric outpatient clinic, Zurich University Hospital.

Sample  Accurately dateable singleton pregnancies (Caucasian: n= 3234; Asian [predominantly from Sri Lanka, Thailand and the Philippines]: n= 577; Black n= 212).

Methods  Between January 1996 and February 2000 blood pressure was determined in 4023 pregnant women using an oscillometric automated device (Dinamap) according to British Hypertension Society recommendations. Women receiving antihypertensive medication were excluded.

Main outcome measure  Blood pressure.

Results  Only the means of duplicate measures at the booking visit (5–42 weeks) were used in the analysis. Mean blood pressure decreased from early to mid pregnancy before increasing to levels 4 mmHg higher at term than in early pregnancy. Values >130/80 and <90/50 mmHg were above the 95th and below the 5th centiles, respectively. Parity, age and body mass index were significant determinants in Caucasians. Blood pressure was slightly lower in Asians and Blacks.

Conclusions  The current World Health Organisation definition of high diastolic blood pressure (≥90 mmHg on two occasions) reflects values >2 standard deviations from the mean. This may be too conservative as threshold for detecting women at risk of pre‐eclampsia. Further studies are required to determine the prognostic implications of gestational values ≥95th centile (≥130/80 mmHg) and ≤5th centile (≤90/50 mmHg).
Balance between microbial calcification and metazoan bioerosion in modern stromatolitic oncolites
Authors: Garcia‐Pichel Ferran , Al‐Horani Fuad A. , Farmer Jack D. , Ludwig Rebecca , Wade Brian D.
Published: March 2004

Stromatolites date back some 3.5 billion years and constitute the most common and conspicuous fossils through the Proterozoic. These organosedimentary structures decreased dramatically in diversity and abundance by the late Neoproterozoic, a phenomenon often ascribed to destructive grazing by newly evolved metazoans. We investigated the concurrent processes of microbial calcification and metazoan bioerosion in one of the few locations (Rio Mesquites, Cuatro Ciénegas, Coahuila, Mexico) where living freshwater stromatolites, formed by cyanobacteria and diatoms, coexist with significant populations of metazoan grazers. We used microsensor chemical profiling and monitoring of bulk water Ca2+concentrations to determine calcification rates and their dependence on microbial metabolism. The bioerosive impact resulting from grazing by endemic hydrobiid gastropods was assessed by gravimetric quantification of carbonaceous faecal pellet production. Calcification was clearly light‐dependent, reaching maximal rates (saturation) at low incident light intensity, and was surprisingly efficient, with O2/Ca2+exchange ratios well above unity, and with absolute rates similar to those found in corals. However, the erosive action of grazing snails removed most of these carbonate inputs from the oncolites. Thus, a precarious balance between constructive and destructive geobiological processes was at play in the system. The fact that accretion barely exceeded bioerosion in an environment highly conducive to calcification supports the potential impact of faunal grazing as causal agent in the demise of stromatolites in the late Proterozoic. Our findings indicate that a search for fossil evidence of bioerosive grazing in the form of carbonaceous faecal pellets associated with fossil stromatolites may provide a means to test that hypothesis directly.
Importance of clay size minerals for Fe(III) respiration in a petroleum‐contaminated aquifer
Authors: Shelobolina Evgenya S. , Anderson Robert T. , Vodyanitskii Yury N. , Sivtsov Anatolii V. , Yuretich Richard , Lovley Derek R.
Published: March 2004

The availability of Fe(III)‐bearing minerals for dissimilatory Fe(III) reduction was evaluated in sediments from a petroleum‐contaminated sandy aquifer near Bemidji, Minnesota (USA). First, the sediments from a contaminated area of the aquifer, in which Fe(III) reduction was the predominant terminal electron accepting process, were compared with sediments from a nearby, uncontaminated site. Data from 0.5 m HCl extraction of different size fractions of the sediments revealed that the clay size fraction contributed a significant portion of the ‘bio‐available’ Fe(III) in the background sediment and was the most depleted in ‘bio‐available’ Fe(III) in the iron‐reducing sediment. Analytical transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed the disappearance of thermodynamically unstable Fe(III) and Mn(IV) hydroxides (ferrihydrite and Fe vernadite), as well as a decrease in the abundance of goethite and lepidocrocite in the clay size fraction from the contaminated sediment. TEM observations and X‐ray diffraction examination did not provide strong evidence of Fe(III)‐reduction‐related changes within another potential source of ‘bio‐available’ Fe(III) in the clay size fraction – ferruginous phyllosilicates. However, further testing in the laboratory with sediments from the methanogenic portion of the aquifer that were depleted in microbially reducible Fe(III) revealed the potential for microbial reduction of Fe(III) associated with phyllosilicates. Addition of a clay size fraction from the uncontaminated sediment, as well as Fe(III)‐coated kaolin and ferruginous nontronite SWa‐1, as sources of poorly crystalline Fe(III) hydroxides and structural iron of phyllosilicates respectively, lowered steady‐state hydrogen concentrations consistent with a stimulation of Fe(III) reduction in laboratory incubations of methanogenic sediments. There was no change in hydrogen concentration when non‐ferruginous clays or no minerals were added. This demonstrated that Fe(III)‐bearing clay size minerals were essential for microbial Fe(III) reduction and suggested that both potential sources of ‘bio‐available’ Fe(III) in the clay size fraction, poorly crystalline Fe(III) hydroxides and structural Fe(III) of phyllosilicates, were important sources of electron acceptor for indigenous iron‐reducing microorganisms in this aquifer.
Lipid biomarker and carbon isotopic signatures for stromatolite‐forming, microbial mat communities and Phormidium cultures from Yellowstone National Park
Authors: Jahnke Linda L. , Embaye Tsegereda , Hope Janet , Turk Kendra A. , Van Zuilen Mark , Des Marais David J. , Farmer Jack D. , Summons Roger E.
Published: March 2004

The molecular and isotopic compositions of lipid biomarkers from cultured filamentous cyanobacteria (Phormidium, also known as Leptolyngbya) have been used to investigate the community and trophic structure of photosynthetic mats from alkaline hot springs of the Lower Geyser Basin at Yellowstone National Park. We studied a shallow‐water coniform mat from Octopus Spring (OS) and a submerged, tufted mat from Fountain Paint Pots (FPP) and found that 2‐methylhopanepolyols and mid‐chain branched methylalkanes were diagnostic for cyanobacteria, whereas abundant wax esters were representative of the green non‐sulphur bacterial population. The biomarker composition of cultured Phormidium‐isolates varied, but was generally representative of the bulk mat composition. The carbon isotopic fractionation for biomass relative to dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC; ɛCO2) for cultures grown with 1% CO2 ranged from 21.4 to 26.1 and was attenuated by diffusion limitation associated with filament aggregation (i.e. cell clumping). Isotopic differences between biomass and lipid biomarkers, and between lipid classes, depended on the cyanobacterial strain, but was positively correlated with overall fractionation. Acetogenic lipids (alkanes and fatty acids) were generally more depleted than isoprenoids (phytol and hopanoids). The δ13CTOC for OS and FPP mats were somewhat heavier than for cultures (−16.9 and −23.6, respectively), which presumably reflects the lower availability of DIC in the natural environment. The isotopic dispersions among cyanobacterial biomarkers, biomass and DIC reflected those established for culture experiments. The 7‐methyl‐ and 7,11‐dimethylheptadecanes were from 9 to 11 depleted relative to the bulk organic carbon, whereas 2‐methylhopanols derived from the oxidation‐reduction of bacteriohopanepolyol were enriched relative to branched alkanes by approximately 5–7. These isotopic relationships survived with depth and indicated that the relatively heavy isotopic composition of the OS mat resulted from diffusion limitation. This study supports the suggestion that culture studies can establish valid isotopic relationships for interpretation of trophic structure in modern and ancient microbial ecosystems.
Evaluation of Safety and Efficacy of Pacemaker and Defibrillator Implantation by Axillary Incision in Pediatric Patients
Authors: LEE JOSELYN C.R. , SHANNON KEVIN , BOYLE NOEL G. , KLITZNER THOMAS S. , BERSOHN MALCOLM M.
Published: March 2004

We successfully implanted 11 pacemakers, 6 defibrillators, and 1 biventricular pacemaker in 18 pediatric patients (15 female; 4 to 15 years, average age: 9) using the retropectoral transvenous approach with a hidden axillary incision. The average follow‐up period was 24 months (range 49 months). Eight patients had congenital structural heart conditions (d‐transposition of great arteries S/P Mustard operation, d‐transposition of great arteries S/P arterial switch operation, truncus arteriosus, right ventricular diverticula, ventricular septal defect, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy). Four patients had acquired heart conditions (dilated cardiomyopathy, myocarditis). Excellent sensing and pacing thresholds were achieved in all attempted implantations. There was no pneumothorax. There was one lead dislodgement. One lead fracture distant from the subclavian vein occurred 4 months after implantation. Implantation of pacemakers and defibrillators via axillary incisions can be safe and effective in pediatric patients. This approach avoids skin erosion when implanting large devices such as defibrillators or biventricular devices in small patients with limited muscle mass while achieving superior aesthetic results. The axillary or extrathoracic venous entry site avoids subclavian crush syndrome. (PACE 2004; 27:304–307)
Electroanatomic Mapping of the Right Atrium with a Right Atrial Basket Catheter and Three‐Dimensional Intracardiac Echocardiography
Authors: SIMON RON D.B. , RINALDI C. ALDO , BASZKO ARTUR , GILL JASWINDER S.
Published: March 2004

The ablation of arrhythmias progresses towards an approach based upon application of linear lesions between nonconducting anatomic/electrical areas. Hence the identification of detailed anatomy together with electrical behavior becomes increasingly important. This study aims to achieve true electroanatomic mapping by the use of three‐dimensional intracardiac imaging of the right atrium combined with use of a right atrial basket to obtain detailed electrical information. We studied nine patients, seven requiring atrial flutter ablation. A 9 Fr, 9 MHZ intracardiac echo catheter was pulled back from SVC to IVC using respiratory and ECG gating. The images, recorded on a Clearview ultrasound machine, were reconstructed using commercially available software. The intracardiac basket was placed into the atrium using the markers and fluoroscopy to allow orientation. Isochronal maps were obtained from the basket in sinus rhythm, pacing from different sites within the atrium and in atrial flutter. Isochronal maps were constructed and superimposed on the ICE image. The maps with pacing were consistent with that which was expected, confirming the validity of this approach. We were able to visualize changes in activation sequence following the placement of bidirectional isthmus block. True electroanatomic mapping is possible by the use of three‐dimensional ICE reconstruction of the right atrium with electrical activation obtained from an intracardiac basket. This has significance for anatomically based arrhythmia ablations such as the ablation of atrial flutter, atrial fibrillation, with transcatheter MAZE procedures and pulmonary vein isolation. Further developments in software will allow such maps to be produced simultaneously with greater rapidity. (PACE 2004; 27:318–326)
A Perspective on Atrioventricular Delay Optimization in Patients with a Dual Chamber Pacemaker
Authors: CRISTINA PORCIANI MARIA , CORBUCCI GIORGIO , FANTINI FABIO , MUSILLI NICOLA , SABINI ALESSANDRA , MICHELUCCI ANTIONIO , COLELLA ANDREA , PIERAGNOLI PAOLO , DEMARCHI GABRIELE , PADELETTI LUIGI
Published: March 2004

Atrioventricular delay (AVD) is critical in patients with DDD pacemakers (PM). Echo/Doppler evaluation of AVD providing the longest left ventricular filling time (FT) or the highest cardiac output (CO) is used for AVD optimization. Recently myocardial performance index (MPI) has been shown to improve by optimizing AVD. The aim was to compare the CO, FT, MPI derived optimal AVD, and to analyze systolic and diastolic performance at every optimal AVD. Twenty‐five patients, 16 men 68 ± 11 years, ejection fraction ≥ 50%, with a DDD PM for third‐degree AV block, without other major cardiomyopathies, underwent echo/Doppler AVD optimization. CO, FT, and MPI derived optimal AVDs were identified as the AVDs providing the highest CO, the longest FT, and the minimum MPI, respectively. Isovolumic contraction and relaxation time (ICT, IRT), ejection time (ET), ICT/ET, and IRT/ET ratios were also evaluated at every optimal AVD. CO, FT, and MPI derived optimal AVDs were significantly different (148 ± 36 ms, 116 ± 34 ms, and 127 ± 33 ms, respectively). ICT/ET was similar at CO, FT, and MPI derived optimal AVD (0.22 ± 0.10, 0.23 ± 0.11, and 0.21 ± 0.10, respectively). IRT/ET ratio was similar at FT and MPI derived optimal AVDs (0.34 ± 0.15 and 0.33 ± 0.15, respectively) and significantly shorter (P < 0.02) than at CO derived optimal AVD (0.40 ± 0.15). Different methods indicate different optimal AVDs. However analysis of systolic and diastolic performance shows that different AVDs result in similar systolic or diastolic performance. At MPI optimized AVD, a high CO combined with the most advantageous conditions of both isovolumic contraction and relaxation phases is achieved. (PACE 2004; 27:333–338)
Development of Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Atrioventricular Block After Atrioventricular Synchronized Pacing
Authors: KONG CHI‐WOON , TUAN TA‐CHUAN , YIN WEI‐HSIAN , YU WEN‐CHUNG , CHEN SHIH‐ANN , LIN YENN‐JIANG , HUANG CHUN‐YAO , CHUNG SHENG‐LIANG
Published: March 2004

Many studies have evidenced an increased incidence of AF in patients receiving single chamber ventricular pacing (VVI) when compared with those undergoing an atrial‐based system (AAI or DDD). However, the difference in incidence of AF between two atrial‐based systems (VDD, DDD) in patients with AV block was still controversial. This study was conducted to compare the development of AF between different modes of pacemakers (VDD and DDD) in patients with symptomatic AV block. A retrospective review was conducted of the detailed records of all consecutive patients who received permanent pacemakers due to symptomatic bradycardia from March 1995 to March 2000. The occurrence of AF was documented when there was presence of AF in the free‐run or 12‐lead ECG, any ECG strips, or persistent AF on 24‐hour Holter ECG during the follow‐up. The study included 152 patients (44 women, 108 men; mean age 73). The patients were divided into two groups: VDD (n = 100) and DDD (n = 52). The mean follow‐up was 48.9 ± 22.9 months. The incidence of AF was 7.9%. A higher incidence of AF was noted in the DDD group (15.4%) when compared with the VDD group (4.0%, P = 0.023). The incidence of development of AF in patients with AV block was higher in those receiving DDD cardiac pacing when compared with those who received the VDD system. The authors suggest that VDD pacing may be a better choice than the DDD system for patients with AV block, but without clinical evidence of sinus node dysfunction, and if an atrial lead is required, it should be placed close to the Bachmann's bundle. (PACE 2004; 27:352–357)
Pacemaker and Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Implantation Without Reversal of Warfarin Therapy
Authors: GIUDICI MICHAEL C. , BAROLD S. SERGE , PAUL DEBORAH L. , BONTU PRAVEEN
Published: March 2004

The study evaluated all patients undergoing permanent pacemaker and ICD implantation over a 4‐year period to determine if anticoagulated patients required normalization of coagulation factors in the periprocedural period. The study included 1,025 (597 men, 428 women, age 24–100 years, mean 72 years) consecutive patients who underwent device implantation using mostly a percutaneous subclavian approach. The procedures were performed without reversal of anticoagulation in 470 patients with INRs ≥ 1.5 at the time of the procedure (mean INR 2.6 ± 1.0, range 1.5–7.5). The complication rate in the anticoagulated group was similar to those in patients with a normal INR. Routine normalization of coagulation factors prior to pacemaker/ICD placement may not be necessary. (PACE 2004; 27:358–360)
The Subpectoral Pacemaker Implant:
Authors: KISTLER PETER M. , EIZENBERG NORMAN , FYNN SIMON P. , MOND HARRY G.
Published: March 2004

The traditional pulse generator implantation site lies subcutaneous on the fascia of the pectoralis major muscle. This article describes a subpectoral pocket approach, which on anatomic investigation is actually “intrapectoral” and offers a much improved cosmetic result with the potential advantage of less erosion. In the authors' experience with over 1,000 initial pacemaker implants and pulse generator replacements, the potential concerns of neurovascular and muscular damage have not been realized. There has been no pulse generator damage from the ribs, serious loculated hematomas, or unusual postoperative or chronic pain. From experience with pulse generator recalls, the replacement procedure has not been significantly more difficult than with the subcutaneous approach. The intrapectoral approach has now become the authors' routine in patients without significant adipose tissue overlying the pectoralis major muscle. (PACE 2004; 27:361–364)
Feasibility of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Use in Elderly Patients:
Authors: NOSEWORTHY PETER A. , LASHEVSKY ILAN , DORIAN PAUL , GREENE MARY , CVITKOVIC SUZAN , NEWMAN DAVID
Published: March 2004

This article addresses the feasibility and safety of ICD therapy in patients >80 years of age. Recent trials have expanded the indication for ICD implantation to include an increasing number and variety of patients. The feasibility of ICD implantation in elderly patients has not been adequately studied. A prospectively collected single center ICD database was analyzed to assess the safety and feasibility of ICD implantation in elderly patients. Patients were divided based on age into two groups (group 1: 70–79 years of age, n = 183; group 2: ≥80 years of age, n = 29). The two groups were similar in gender distribution, NYHA class, and indication for implantation. The actuarial survival was not significantly different between groups 1 and 2 (P > 0.05; primary endpoint), with a 1‐year survival of 91% and 93% in groups 1 and 2, respectively, (P = NS). The complication rates at the time of ICD implantation were similar in groups 1 and 2 (6.6% and 13.1%, respectively, P = 0.16). Age alone may not be sufficient criteria to exclude ICD implantation. The current consensus guidelines for ICD implantation appear to be generalizable to treating octogenarians who are otherwise medically fit. (PACE 2004; 27:373–378)
Ventricular Rate Control During Atrial Fibrillation and AV Node Modifications:
Authors: ZHANG YOUHUA , MAZGALEV TODOR N.
Published: March 2004

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia. Currently there are two broad strategic treatment options for AF: rhythm control and rate control. For rhythm control, the treatment is directed toward restoring and maintaining the sinus rhythm. For rate control, the intention is to slow ventricular rate while allowing AF to continue. In both cases anticoagulation therapy is recommended. The results of currently available clinical trials demonstrated clearly that rate control is not inferior to rhythm control. Thus, rate control is an acceptable primary therapy for many AF patients. The rate control can be achieved essentially by depressing or modifying the filtering properties of the atrioventricular (AV) node. This can be attained by medications that depress the impulse transmission within the AV node, by anatomic modification of the AV communications, as well as by autonomic manipulations that produce AV node negative dromotropic effect. We are reviewing current clinical and newer experimental modalities aimed at enhancing the lifesaving function of this remarkable nodal structure. (PACE 2004; 27:382–393)
Superfamilies of Evolved and Designed Networks
Authors: Milo Ron , Itzkovitz Shalev , Kashtan Nadav , Levitt Reuven , Shen-Orr Shai , Ayzenshtat Inbal , Sheffer Michal , Alon Uri
Published: March 2004

Complex biological, technological, and sociological networks can be of very different sizes and connectivities, making it difficult to compare their structures. Here we present an approach to systematically study similarity in the local structure of networks, based on the significance profile (SP) of small subgraphs in the network compared to randomized networks. We find several superfamilies of previously unrelated networks with very similar SPs. One superfamily, including transcription networks of microorganisms, represents “rate-limited” information-processing networks strongly constrained by the response time of their components. A distinct superfamily includes protein signaling, developmental genetic networks, and neuronal wiring. Additional superfamilies include power grids, protein-structure networks and geometric networks, World Wide Web links and social networks, and word-adjacency networks from different languages.
Functional Anatomy of the Attentional Modulation of Time Estimation
Authors: Coull Jennifer T. , Vidal Franck , Nazarian Bruno , Macar Francoise
Published: March 2004

Attention modulates our subjective perception of time. The less we attend to an event's duration, the shorter it seems to last. Attention to time or color stimulus attributes was modulated parametrically in an event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging study. Linear increases in task performance were accompanied by corresponding increases in brain activity. Increasing attention to time selectively increased activity in a corticostriatal network, including pre–supplementary motor area and right frontal operculum. Increasing attention to color selectively increased activity in area V4. By identifying areas whose activity was specifically modulated by attention to time, we have defined the core neuroanatomical substrates of timing behavior.
Deconfined Quantum Critical Points
Authors: Senthil T. , Vishwanath Ashvin , Balents Leon , Sachdev Subir , Fisher Matthew P. A.
Published: March 2004

The theory of second-order phase transitions is one of the foundations of modern statistical mechanics and condensed-matter theory. A central concept is the observable order parameter, whose nonzero average value characterizes one or more phases. At large distances and long times, fluctuations of the order parameter(s) are described by a continuum field theory, and these dominate the physics near such phase transitions. We show that near second-order quantum phase transitions, subtle quantum interference effects can invalidate this paradigm, and we present a theory of quantum critical points in a variety of experimentally relevant two-dimensional antiferromagnets. The critical points separate phases characterized by conventional “confining” order parameters. Nevertheless, the critical theory contains an emergent gauge field and “deconfined” degrees of freedom associated with fractionalization of the order parameters. We propose that this paradigm for quantum criticality may be the key to resolving a number of experimental puzzles in correlated electron systems and offer a new perspective on the properties of complex materials.
Ethanol Augments GABAergic Transmission in the Central Amygdala via CRF1 Receptors
Authors: Nie Zhiguo , Schweitzer Paul , Roberts Amanda J. , Madamba Samuel G. , Moore Scott D. , Siggins George Robert
Published: March 2004

The central amygdala (CeA) plays a role in the relationship among stress, corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), and alcohol abuse. In whole-cell recordings, both CRF and ethanol enhanced γ-aminobutyric acid–mediated (GABAergic) neurotransmission in CeA neurons from wild-type and CRF2 receptor knockout mice, but not CRF1 receptor knockout mice. CRF1 (but not CRF2) receptor antagonists blocked both CRF and ethanol effects in wild-type mice. These data indicate that CRF1 receptors mediate ethanol enhancement of GABAergic synaptic transmission in the CeA, and they suggest a cellular mechanism underlying involvement of CRF in ethanol's behavioral and motivational effects.
European Seasonal and Annual Temperature Variability, Trends, and Extremes Since 1500
Authors: Luterbacher Jürg , Dietrich Daniel , Xoplaki Elena , Grosjean Martin , Wanner Heinz
Published: March 2004

Multiproxy reconstructions of monthly and seasonal surface temperature fields for Europe back to 1500 show that the late 20th- and early 21st-century European climate is very likely (>95% confidence level) warmer than that of any time during the past 500 years. This agrees with findings for the entire Northern Hemisphere. European winter average temperatures during the period 1500 to 1900 were reduced by ∼0.5°C (0.25°C for annual mean temperatures) compared to the 20th century. Summer temperatures did not experience systematic century-scale cooling relative to present conditions. The coldest European winter was 1708/1709; 2003 was by far the hottest summer.
Terahertz Magnetic Response from Artificial Materials
Authors: Yen T. J. , Padilla W. J. , Fang N. , Vier D. C. , Smith D. R. , Pendry J. B. , Basov D. N. , Zhang X.
Published: March 2004

We show that magnetic response at terahertz frequencies can be achieved in a planar structure composed of nonmagnetic conductive resonant elements. The effect is realized over a large bandwidth and can be tuned throughout the terahertz frequency regime by scaling the dimensions of the structure. We suggest that artificial magnetic structures, or hybrid structures that combine natural and artificial magnetic materials, can play a key role in terahertz devices.
Emerging Vectors in the
Culex pipiens
Complex
Authors: Fonseca Dina M. , Keyghobadi Nusha , Malcolm Colin A. , Mehmet Ceylan , Schaffner Francis , Mogi Motoyoshi , Fleischer Robert C. , Wilkerson Richard C.
Published: March 2004

In the Old World, some mosquitoes in the
Culex pipiens
complex are excellent enzootic vectors of West Nile virus, circulating the virus among birds, whereas others bite mainly humans and other mammals. Here we show that, in northern Europe, such forms differing in behavior and physiology have unique microsatellite fingerprints with no evidence of gene flow between them, as would be expected from distinct species. In the United States, however, hybrids between these forms are ubiquitous. Such hybrids between human-biters and bird-biters may be the bridge vectors contributing to the unprecedented severity and range of the West Nile virus epidemic in North America.
Discovery of Ancient Silicate Stardust in a Meteorite
Authors: Nguyen Ann N. , Zinner Ernst
Published: March 2004

We have discovered nine presolar silicate grains from the carbonaceous chondrite Acfer 094. Their anomalous oxygen isotopic compositions indicate formation in the atmospheres of evolved stars. Two grains are identified as pyroxene, two as olivine, one as a glass with embedded metal and sulfides (GEMS), and one as an Al-rich silicate. One grain is enriched in
26
Mg, which is attributed to the radioactive decay of
26
Al and provides information about mixing processes in the parent star. This discovery opens new means for studying stellar processes and conditions in various solar system environments.
A Kinesin-like Motor Inhibits Microtubule Dynamic Instability
Authors: Bringmann Henrik , Skiniotis Georgios , Spilker Annina , Kandels-Lewis Stefanie , Vernos Isabelle , Surrey Thomas
Published: March 2004

The motility of molecular motors and the dynamic instability of microtubules are key dynamic processes for mitotic spindle assembly and function. We report here that one of the mitotic kinesins that localizes to chromosomes, Xklp1 from
Xenopus laevis
, could inhibit microtubule growth and shrinkage. This effect appeared to be mediated by a structural change in the microtubule lattice. We also found that Xklp1 could act as a fast, nonprocessive, plus end–directed molecular motor. The integration of the two properties, motility and inhibition of microtubule dynamics, in one molecule emphasizes the versatile properties of kinesin family members.
Stable and Noncompetitive RNA Internal Control for Routine Clinical Diagnostic Reverse Transcription-PCR
Authors: Dingle Kate E. , Crook Derrick , Jeffery Katie
Published: March 2004

Clinical diagnostic tests based on nucleic acid amplification assist with the prompt diagnosis of microbial infections because of their speeds and extremely low limits of detection. However, the design of appropriate internal controls for such assays has proven difficult. We describe a reaction-specific RNA internal control for diagnostic reverse transcription (RT)-PCR which allows extraction, RT, amplification, and detection to be monitored. The control consists of a G+C-rich (60%) RNA molecule with an extensive secondary structure, based on a modified hepatitis delta virus genome. The rod-like structure of this RNA, with 70% intramolecular base pairing, provides a difficult template for RT-PCR. This ensures that the more favorable target virus amplicon is generated in preference to the control, with the control being detected only if the target virus is absent. The unusual structure of hepatitis delta virus RNA has previously been shown to enhance its stability and resistance to nucleases, an advantage for routine use as an internal control. The control was implemented in three nested multiplex RT-PCRs to detect nine clinically important respiratory viruses: (i) influenza A and B viruses, (ii) respiratory syncytial viruses A and B and human metapneumovirus, and (iii) parainfluenza virus types 1 to 4. The detection limits of these assays were not detectably compromised by the presence of the RNA control. During routine testing of 324 consecutive unselected respiratory samples, the presence of the internal control ensured that genuine and false-negative results were distinguishable, thus increasing the diagnostic confidence in the assay.