bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Experiences for Pulmonary Vein Isolation with the High‐Density Mesh Ablator (HDMA): A Novel Mesh Electrode Catheter for Both Mapping and Radiofrequency Delivery in a Single Unit
Authors: MEISSNER AXEL , PLEHN GUNNAR , VAN BRACHT MARC , SCHRAGE MAX OLAV , CHRIST MARTIN , MAAGH PETRA , BUTZ THOMAS , BORCHARD ROLF , TRAPPE HANS‐JOACHIM
Published: November 2008

Background: Interventional therapy of atrial fibrillation (AF) is often associated with long examination and fluoroscopy times. The use of mapping catheters in addition to the ablation catheter requires multiple transseptal sheaths for left atrial access.

Objectives: The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate feasibility and safety of pulmonary vein (PV) isolation using the high‐density mesh ablator (HDMA), a novel single, expandable electrode catheter for both mapping and radiofrequency (RF) delivery at the left atrium/PV junctions.

Methods: Twenty‐six patients with highly symptomatic paroxysmal AF (14, 53.8%) and persistent AF (12, 46.2%) were studied. Segmental PV isolation via the HDMA was performed using a customized pulsed RF energy delivery program (target temperature 55–60°C, power 70–100 W, 600–900 seconds RF application time/PV).

Results: All 104 PVs in 26 patients could be ablated by the HDMA. Segmental PV isolation was achieved with a mean of 3.25 ± 1.4 RF applications for a mean of 603 ± 185 seconds. Entrance conduction block was obtained in 94.2% of all PV. The mean total procedure and fluoroscopy time was 159.0 ± 32 minutes and 33.5 ± 8.6 minutes, respectively. None of the patients experienced severe acute complications. After 3 months no PV stenosis was observed, and 85.6% and 41.6% of the patients with PAF and persistent AF, respectively, did not report symptomatic AF.

Conclusions: In this first study of PV isolation using the HDMA, our findings suggest that this method is safe and yields good primary success rates. The HDMA simplifies AF ablation, favorably impacting procedure and fluoroscopy times.
Incidence and Predictors of Left Atrial Thrombus Prior to Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: SCHERR DANIEL , DALAL DARSHAN , CHILUKURI KARUNA , DONG JUN , SPRAGG DAVID , HENRIKSON CHARLES A. , NAZARIAN SAMAN , CHENG ALAN , BERGER RONALD D. , ABRAHAM THEODORE P. , CALKINS HUGH , MARINE JOSEPH E.
Published: November 2008

Background:
Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is commonly used prior to catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) in order to exclude left atrial (LA) thrombus. However, the incidence and predictors of LA thrombus detected with TEE have not been systematically examined in this setting.

Methods:
This study included 732 cases (mean age 57 ± 11 years; 23% female; 353 persistent AF) in 585 consecutive patients referred for catheter ablation of AF. Patients were anticoagulated for at least 4 weeks prior to the procedure and then bridged with enoxaparin. TEE was performed in all cases within 24 hours prior to ablation.

Results:
Preprocedural TEE revealed LA thrombus in 12 of 732 cases (1.6%), all located in the LA appendage. Among these 12 patients, 9 had persistent AF and 3 had paroxysmal AF. All patients with thrombus had an LA size ≥ 4.5 cm. LA thrombus was present in 0.3%, 1.4%, and 5.3% of patients with CHADS2 scores of 0, 1, and ≥ 2, respectively. In multivariate analysis, a CHADS2 score ≥ 2 and larger LA diameter remained significant predictors of LA thrombus.

Conclusions:
Despite oral anticoagulation treatment, there is a small but significant incidence of LA thrombus by TEE prior to AF ablation. A CHADS2 score ≥ 2 and larger LA diameter are independent predictors of LA thrombus in this patient population, while type of AF or rhythm at the time of TEE is not. The risk of LA thrombus is low in patients with a CHADS2 score of 0 and in patients with an LA diameter < 4.5 cm.
Atrial Arrhythmias in Long‐QT Syndrome under Daily Life Conditions: A Nested Case Control Study
Authors: ZELLERHOFF STEPHAN , PISTULLI RUDIN , MÖNNIG GEROLD , HINTERSEER MARTIN , BECKMANN BRITT‐MARIA , KÖBE JULIA , STEINBECK GERHARD , KÄÄB STEFAN , HAVERKAMP WILHELM , FABRITZ LARISSA , GRADAUS RAINER , BREITHARDT GÜNTER , SCHULZE‐BAHR ERIC , BÖCKER DIRK , KIRCHHOF PAULUS
Published: November 2008

Background:
The long‐QT syndromes (LQTS) are inherited electrical cardiomyopathies characterized by prolonged ventricular repolarization and ventricular arrhythmias. Several genetic reports have associated defects in LQTS‐causing genes with atrial fibrillation (AF). We therefore studied whether atrial arrhythmias occur in patients with LQTS under daily‐life conditions.

Methods:
We systematically assessed atrial arrhythmias in LQTS patients and matched controls using implanted defibrillators or pacemakers as monitors of atrial rhythm in a nested case‐control study. Twenty‐one LQTS patients (3 male; 39 ± 18 years old; 18 on β blocker, ICD therapy duration 6.3 ± 2.7 years; 4 LQT1, 6 LQT2, 2 LQT3) were matched to 21 control subjects (13 male; 50 ± 19 years old; 3 on β blocker; pacemaker therapy duration 8.5 ± 5.5 years; 19 higher‐degree AV block, 2 others). LQTS patients were identified by a systematic search of the LQTS patient databases in Münster and Munich.

Results:
One‐third (7 of 21) of the LQTS patients developed self‐terminating atrial arrhythmias (atrial cycle lengths <250 ms). Only one control patient developed a single episode of postoperative AF (P < 0.05 vs LQTS).

Conclusions:
LQTS patients at high risk for ventricular arrhythmias may develop short‐lasting atrial arrhythmias under daily‐life conditions, suggesting that prolonged atrial repolarization may contribute to the initiation of AF.
Dielectric Tunable Properties and Relaxor Behavior of (Pb0.5Ba0.5)ZrO3 Thin Films
Authors: Hao Xihong , Zhai Jiwei , Yao Xi
Published: November 2008

Pb0.5Ba0.5ZrO3 (PBZ50) thin films with a thickness of about 500 nm in the paraelectric‐phase were deposited on Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrates via the sol–gel process. The room‐temperature dielectric measurements showed that the tunability and figure of merit (FOM) of the PBZ50 films at the maximum external DC field of 200 kV/cm were 39% and 38%, respectively. The results of temperature‐dependent dielectric measurements confirmed that PBZ50 films had a typical diffuse phase transition characteristic and relaxor behavior.
Using Immersive Simulation for Training First Responders for Mass Casualty Incidents
Authors: Wilkerson William , Avstreih Dan , Gruppen Larry , Beier Klaus‐Peter , Woolliscroft James
Published: November 2008

Objectives:  A descriptive study was performed to better understand the possible utility of immersive virtual reality simulation for training first responders in a mass casualty event.

Methods:  Utilizing a virtual reality cave automatic virtual environment (CAVE) and high‐fidelity human patient simulator (HPS), a group of experts modeled a football stadium that experienced a terrorist explosion during a football game. Avatars (virtual patients) were developed by expert consensus that demonstrated a spectrum of injuries ranging from death to minor lacerations. A group of paramedics was assessed by observation for decisions made and action taken. A critical action checklist was created and used for direct observation and viewing videotaped recordings.

Results:  Of the 12 participants, only 35.7% identified the type of incident they encountered. None identified a secondary device that was easily visible. All participants were enthusiastic about the simulation and provided valuable comments and insights.

Conclusions:  Learner feedback and expert performance review suggests that immersive training in a virtual environment has the potential to be a powerful tool to train first responders for high‐acuity, low‐frequency events, such as a terrorist attack.
Debriefing as Formative Assessment: Closing Performance Gaps in Medical Education
Authors: Rudolph Jenny W. , Simon Robert , Raemer Daniel B. , Eppich Walter J.
Published: November 2008

The authors present a four‐step model of debriefing as formative assessment that blends evidence and theory from education research, the social and cognitive sciences, experience drawn from conducting over 3,000 debriefings, and teaching debriefing to approximately 1,000 clinicians worldwide. The steps are to: 1) note salient performance gaps related to predetermined objectives, 2) provide feedback describing the gap, 3) investigate the basis for the gap by exploring the frames and emotions contributing to the current performance level, and 4) help close the performance gap through discussion or targeted instruction about principles and skills relevant to performance. The authors propose that the model, designed for postsimulation debriefings, can also be applied to bedside teaching in the emergency department (ED) and other clinical settings.
The Assessment of Individual Cognitive Expertise and Clinical Competency: A Research Agenda
Authors: Spillane Linda , Hayden Emily , Fernandez Rosemarie , Adler Mark , Beeson Michael , Goyal Deepi , Smith‐Coggins Rebecca , Boulet John
Published: November 2008

There is a large push to utilize evidence‐based practices in medical education. At the same time, credentialing bodies are evaluating the use of simulation technologies to assess the competency and safety of its practitioners. At the 2008 Academic Emergency Medicine Consensus Conference on “The Science of Simulation in Healthcare,” our breakout session critically evaluated several issues important to the use of simulation in emergency physician (EP) assessment. In this article, we discuss five topics felt to be most critical to simulation‐based assessment (SBA). We then offer more specific research questions that would help to define and implement a SBA program in emergency medicine (EM).
Arbiters, Entrepreneurs, and the Shaping of Business School Reputations1
Authors: Sauder Michael , Fine Gary Alan
Published: November 2008

How are organizational reputations established? Expanding on recent work that emphasizes the construction of reputations rather than their cultural content, we explore how forces in the organizational environment define organizational reputation. Specifically, we demonstrate how two types of mediators—reputational arbiters and reputational entrepreneurs—influence the development of reputations by organizing and managing the information on which reputations are built. Buttressing our theoretical claims with 30 interviews of business school administrators, we find that these mediators play a central role in determining organizational reputations by engaging in three processes of information manipulation: synthesis, selection, and simplification. In addition to specifying the key role that the manipulation of information by outsiders plays in the development of reputation, this approach suggests the importance of the interrelationships among these mediators in the determination of reputational standing.
Reconsidering Explanations for Regional Convergence in Voter Registration and Turnout in the United States, 1956–20001
Authors: Fullerton Andrew S. , Borch Casey
Published: November 2008

In the United States, voter turnout rates have been declining for the last 4 decades; however, this pattern differs substantially by region. Southern states have actually seen a fairly dramatic increase in turnout since the 1950s and currently the South and non‐South have almost identical rates of voter registration and turnout. Using a series of Heckman probit models, which examine voting as a two‐step process of registering and casting a vote, we systematically investigate differences in rates of registering and voting across regions and test explanations for regional convergence over time. Using data from the American National Election Studies (1956–2000), we find that regional convergence in voter registration is primarily due to the removal of formal and informal barriers to registration and voting in the South and declining efforts to mobilize potential voters in the non‐South. In addition, we find some fairly distinct differences in which predictors are important to each stage of the voting process; for example, race is a better predictor of registering to vote than voting. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of these results.
Navigating Globalization: Immigration Policy in Canada and Australia, 1945–20071
Authors: Walsh James
Published: November 2008

Scholarship on immigration and globalization has failed to adequately analyze the nation‐state’s regulatory capacities, insisting instead that contemporary patterns of migration jeopardize national sovereignty and territoriality. While recognized that states possess the legitimate authority to control their territorial and membership boundaries, recent transformations of these capacities remain largely unanalyzed. This article’s historical analysis of Australia and Canada’s postwar immigration policies demonstrates that the contours of state regulation are intimately connected to the exigencies of state administration and nation building and—in contrast to the expectations of dominant theories—have intensified and expanded within the globalization context. The literature’s inattention to the fundamentally political nature of immigration has obscured the critical effects of national policies within both the migratory and globalization process. Australia’s and Canada’s contemporary policies constitute a unique model of migration control and reflect attempts by both countries to strategically position their societies within the global system and resolve a number of economic, political, cultural, and demographic transitions associated with globalization.
The Forum: Second Thoughts on Presidential Politics
Authors: Ruane Janet M. , Cerulo Karen A.
Published: November 2008

In this essay, we confront the “conventional wisdoms” promoted throughout this long presidential campaign. By conventional wisdoms, we mean the common knowledge of politics—the things that commentators and analysts forward as taken‐for‐granted assertions and beliefs. We will revisit just a few of the campaign season’s conventional wisdoms and review them with a sociological eye. In so doing, we find that in politics, as in most other areas, conventional wisdom can be a risky source of knowledge.
BMP‐9‐induced osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal progenitors requires functional canonical Wnt/β‐catenin signalling
Authors: Tang Ni , Song Wen‐Xin , Luo Jinyong , Luo Xiaoji , Chen Jin , Sharff Katie A. , Bi Yang , He Bai‐Cheng , Huang Jia‐Yi , Zhu Gao‐Hui , Su Yu‐Xi , Jiang Wei , Tang Min , He Yun , Wang Yi , Chen Liang , Zuo Guo‐Wei , Shen Jikun , Pan Xiaochuan , Reid Russell R. , Luu Hue H. , Haydon Rex C. , He Tong‐Chuan
Published: November 2008

Bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP‐9) is a member of the transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β/BMP superfamily, and we have demonstrated that it is one of the most potent BMPs to induce osteoblast differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Here, we sought to investigate if canonical Wnt/β‐catenin signalling plays an important role in BMP‐9‐induced osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. Wnt3A and BMP‐9 enhanced each other’s ability to induce alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in MSCs and mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). Wnt antagonist FrzB was shown to inhibit BMP‐9‐induced ALP activity more effectively than Dkk1, whereas a secreted form of LPR‐5 or low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein (LRP)‐6 exerted no inhibitory effect on BMP‐9‐induced ALP activity. β‐Catenin knockdown in MSCs and MEFs diminished BMP‐9‐induced ALP activity, and led to a decrease in BMP‐9‐induced osteocalcin reporter activity and BMP‐9‐induced expression of late osteogenic markers. Furthermore, β‐catenin knockdown or FrzB overexpression inhibited BMP‐9‐induced mineralization in vitro and ectopic bone formation in vivo, resulting in immature osteogenesis and the formation of chondrogenic matrix. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analysis indicated that BMP‐9 induced recruitment of both Runx2 and β‐catenin to the osteocalcin promoter. Thus, we have demonstrated that canonical Wnt signalling, possibly through interactions between β‐catenin and Runx2, plays an important role in BMP‐9‐induced osteogenic differentiation of MSCs.
Human islet‐derived precursor cells can cycle between epithelial clusters and mesenchymal phenotypes
Authors: Davani Behrous , Ariely Sahar , Ikonomou Laertis , Oron Yoram , Gershengorn Marvin C.
Published: November 2008

We showed previously that undifferentiated, proliferating human islet‐derived precursor cells (hIPCs) are a type of mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (MSC) that can be induced by serum deprivation to form clusters and ultimately differentiate in vitro to endocrine cells. We also demonstrated that partially differentiated hIPC clusters, when implanted under the kidney capsules of mice, continued to differentiate in vivo into hormone‐producing cells. However, we noted that not all hIPC preparations yielded insulin‐secreting cells in vivo and that in some animals no hormone‐expressing cells were found. This suggested that the implanted cells were not always irreversibly committed to further differentiation and may even de‐differentiate to a mesenchymal phenotype. In this study, we show that human cells with a mesenchymal phenotype are indeed found in the grafts of mice implanted with hIPCs in epithelial cell clusters (ECCs), which are obtained after 4‐day in vitro culture of hIPCs in serum‐free medium (SFM); mesenchymal cells were predominant in some grafts. We could mimic the transition of ECCs to de‐differentiated mesenchymal cells in vitro by exposure to foetal bovine serum (FBS) or mouse serums, and to a significantly lesser extent to human serum. In a complementary series of experiments, we show that mouse serum and FBS are more effective stimulants of mesenchymal hIPC migration than is human serum. We found that proliferation was not needed for the transition from ECCs to de‐differentiated cells because mitomycin‐treated hIPCs that could not proliferate underwent a similar transition. Lastly, we show that cells exhibiting a mesenchymal phenotype can be found in grafts of adult human islets in mice. We conclude that epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) of cells in hIPC ECCs can occur following implantation in mice. This potential for EMT of human islets or differentiated precursor cells must be considered in strategies for cell replacement therapy for diabetes.
Targeting histone deacetylases for the treatment of disease
Authors: Lawless M. W. , Norris S. , O’Byrne K. J. , Gray S. G.
Published: November 2008

Introduction

HATs/HDACs and the pro‐inflammatory environment

HATs/HDACs and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress

The potential role of histone deacetylase inhibitors in the treatment of cancer

Potential role of histone deacetylase inhibitors in the treatment of diabetes

The potential role of histone deacetylase inhibitors in the treatment of neurodegenerative conditions

Histone deacetylase inhibitors

Caveats

Final comments

The ‘histone code’ is a well‐established hypothesis describing the idea that specific patterns of post‐translational modifications to histones act like a molecular ‘code’ recognized and used by non‐histone proteins to regulate specific chromatin functions. One modification, which has received significant attention, is that of histone acetylation. The enzymes that regulate this modification are described as lysine acetyltransferases or KATs, and histone deacetylases or HDACs. Due to their conserved catalytic domain HDACs have been actively targeted as a therapeutic target. The pro‐inflammatory environment is increasingly being recognized as a critical element for both degenerative diseases and cancer. The present review will discuss the current knowledge surrounding the clinical potential and current development of histone deacetylases for the treatment of diseases for which a pro‐inflammatory environment plays important roles, and the molecular mechanisms by which such inhibitors may play important functions in modulating the pro‐inflammatory environment.
The Neurourological Examination in Women
Authors: Yang Claire C.
Published: November 2008

Yang CC. The neurourological examination in women. J Sex Med 2008;5:2498–2501

The review provides a description of a physical examination protocol to rule out significant neurologic disease as a cause for a woman's sexual complaints, or to confirm a neurologic cause for the sexual dysfunction, particularly in women with known neurologic disease.
Role of the Neurokinin-1 Receptors in Ejaculation in Anesthetized Rats
Authors: Clement Pierre , Peeters Magali , Bernabe Jacques , Laurin Miguel , Alexandre Laurent , Giuliano Francois
Published: November 2008

Introduction

Several lines of evidence indicate a role for substance P in the control of ejaculation, although its mode of action needs to be clarified.

Aim

The effects and sites of action of a selective antagonist for the substance P-preferred receptor (neurokinin-1 receptor subtype; NK1) were investigated in a pharmacological model of ejaculation.

Methods

Ejaculation was induced in anesthetized rats by intracerebroventricular (icv) delivery of the dopamine D3 receptor preferring agonist 7-hydroxy-2-(di-N-propylamino)tetralin (7-OH-DPAT). The effects of the selective NK1 antagonist RP67580 on 7-OH-DPAT-induced ejaculation were measured following intraperitoneal (ip), icv, or intrathecal (it) (third lumbar spinal segment; L3) administration.

Main Outcome Measures

Intraseminal vesicle pressure (SVP) and electromyogram of the bulbospongiosus muscle (BS) were recorded as physiological markers of emission and expulsion phases of ejaculation, respectively.

Results

Upon ip, icv, or it administration, RP67580 significantly reduced the occurrence of ejaculation elicited by 7-OH-DPAT. A mild decrease in the occurrence of SVP and BS responses was observed in rats treated ip with RP67580, whereas only SVP responses were moderately affected following icv or it administration.

Conclusion

These results show the multilevel regulation of 7-OH-DPAT-induced ejaculation by NK1 receptors.
Persistent Genital and Pelvic Pain After Childbirth
Authors: Paterson Laurel Q.P. , Davis Seth N.P. , Khalifé Samir , Amsel Rhonda , Binik Yitzchak M.
Published: November 2008

Introduction

Although genital pain and pelvic pain are common and well-documented problems in the early postpartum period, little is known about their course. The few published studies of such pain beyond 1 year postpartum have focused primarily on the perineum and have not assessed pain onset.

Aim

To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of all types of genital and pelvic pain in the second year postpartum, and to explore risk factors for their persistence.

Methods

Over a 6-month period, a questionnaire on genital/pelvic pain, sociodemographic and childbirth variables, breastfeeding, and chronic pain history was mailed to patients of the collaborating obstetrician at 12 months postpartum.

Main Outcome Measures

The prevalence, characteristics, and correlates of persistent genital/pelvic pain with postpartum onset.

Results

Almost half of the 114 participants (82% response rate; M = 14 months postpartum) reported a current (18%) or resolved (26%) episode of genital or pelvic pain lasting 3 or more months. Just under one in 10 (9%) mothers continued to experience pain that had begun after they last gave birth. This pain was described at various locations (e.g., vaginal opening and pelvic area), as moderate in intensity and unpleasantness, and most often as burning, cutting, or radiating. Although it was triggered by both sexual and nonsexual activities, none of the mothers affected were receiving treatment. Univariate analyses revealed that only past diagnosis with a nongenital chronic pain condition (e.g., migraine headache) was significantly correlated with (i) any history of chronic genital/pelvic pain or (ii) the persistence of pregnancy- or postpartum-onset genital or pelvic pain.

Conclusions

Postpartum genital and pelvic pain persists for longer than a year for a significant percentage of mothers. Women with a history of other chronic pain appear to be particularly vulnerable to developing persistent genital or pelvic pain.
Erectile Dysfunction Management Options in Nigeria
Authors: Afolayan Anthony Jide , Yakubu Musa Toyin
Published: November 2008

Introduction

In Nigeria, the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) among patients attending primary care clinics, age-standardized to the U.S. population in 2000 is 57.4%. This is considered high enough to warrant the attention of scientist for critical studies and analysis. The high ED prevalence is associated with etiologies such as psychosexual factors, chronic medical conditions, and some lifestyles. ED constitutes a major public health problem, influencing the patient’s well-being and quality of life. It also leads to broken homes and marriages, psychological, social, and physical morbidity.

Aim

To give an account of various ED management options in Nigeria.

Method

Review of peer-reviewed literature, questionnaire, and ethnobotanical survey to some indigenous herb sellers and herbalists.

Main Outcome Measures

Cross cultural perspectives of ED management in Nigeria.

Results

The review suggests that traditional (phytotherapy, zootherapy, and occultism) and nontraditional, orthodox practice (drug therapy, psychological, and behavioral counseling) are applicable to ED management in Nigeria.

Conclusion

This review should help in creating awareness into various options available for managing ED in the country, but does not recommend self medication of any form, be it the use of orthodox or herbal remedy.
Metoidioplasty as a Single Stage Sex Reassignment Surgery in Female Transsexuals: Belgrade Experience
Authors: Djordjevic Miroslav L. , Stanojevic Dusan , Bizic Marta , Kojovic Vladimir , Majstorovic Marko , Vujovic Svetlana , Milosevic Alexandar , Korac Gradimir , Perovic Sava V.
Published: November 2008

Introduction

Metoidioplasty represents one of the variants of phalloplasty in female transsexuals. Its main characteristic is that it is a one-stage procedure. It involves lengthening and straightening of hypertrophied clitoris to create a neophallus, urethral lengthening to enable voiding while standing, and scrotal reconstruction with insertion of testicle prostheses.

Aim

Our aim is to describe our technique and highlight its advantages.

Methods

Between September 2002 and April 2007, 82 female transsexuals, aged 18–54 years (mean age 31) underwent one-stage metoidioplasty. Clitoris is lengthened and straightened by division of clitoral ligaments and short urethral plate. Urethroplasty is done with combined buccal mucosa graft and genital skin flaps. Scrotum is created from labia majora in which two testicle prostheses are inserted. Simultaneously, female genitalia are removed.

Main Outcome Measures

Patients’ personal satisfaction about sensitivity and length of neophallus, possibility to void in standing position, real length of reconstructed urethra as well as complication rate comparing to other published data.

Results

The median follow-up was 32 months (range 14–69). The mean neophallic length was 5.7 cm (range 4–10). Voiding in standing position was reported in all patients, while dribbling and spraying were noticed in 23 cases and solved spontaneously. There were two urethral strictures and seven fistulas that required secondary minor revision. All patients reported preserved sensation and normal postoperative erection. Testicle prostheses rejection was not observed in any of the patients.

Conclusions

Metoidioplasty is a single-stage and time-saving procedure. It could be an alternative to total phalloplasty in female transsexuals who do not wish to have sexual intercourse. Also, it represents a first step in cases where additional augmentation phalloplasty is required.
The Common Agricultural Policy and Its Reform: The Problem of Reconciling Budget and Trade Concerns
Authors: Ackrill Robert , Kay Adrian , Morgan Wyn
Published: November 2008

In 2008, the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reached its fiftieth birthday. It has been a constant factor in directing resources to the EU agricultural sector, but the means of channelling these resources have changed considerably over time. This article charts the evolution of the CAPs principal policy instruments and analyzes the welfare effects of its major reforms. It also analyzes these changes in terms of the institutional context of the principal reform pressures, namely international trade obligations and EU budget concerns. We will show that the link between these two pressures was never one of simple determinism: the CAP and its reform can only be understood in light of these pressures and of endogenous vested interests to the policy.

En 2008, la Politique agricole commune (PAC) célèbre ses 50 ans. Cette politique a été un facteur constant de l'orientation des ressources vers le secteur agricole de l'UE, mais les moyens utilisés pour acheminer ces ressources ont changé considérablement au fil du temps. Le présent article retrace l'évolution des principaux instruments de la PAC et analyse les effets de ses grandes réformes sur le bien‐être. Elle analyse aussi ces changements dans le contexte institutionnel des pressions de la réforme, à savoir les obligations commerciales internationales et les préoccupations quant au budget de l'UE. Nous montrons que le lien entre ces deux types de pression n'a jamais été d'un déterminisme simple: la PAC et sa réforme ne peuvent être comprises qu'en examinant ces pressions et les droits acquis endogènes qu'elles génèrent.
Potential WTO Challenges to the CAP†
Authors: Swinbank Alan
Published: November 2008

Since the early 1990s the EU's CAP has undergone considerable change with, first, a switch from market price support to direct payments in 1992 and, second, a further decoupling of support with the creation of the single payment scheme in 2003. Nonetheless, whether the current Doha Round of WTO trade negotiations is successfully completed or not, the CAP will come under renewed scrutiny, as a result either of negotiated reductions in support or of litigation through the WTO's dispute settlement process. This article discusses CAP market price and income support in the context of these likely WTO constraints.

Depuis le début des années 1990, la PAC (Politique agricole commune) a subi des changements considérables dont le remplacement du soutien des prix du marché par des aides directes en 1992, suivi du découplage accru du soutien avec la mise en place du régime de paiement unique (RPU) en 2003. Toutefois, que les négociations commerciales actuelles du cycle de Doha de l'OMC se terminent avec succès ou non, la PAC fera l'objet d'un examen approfondi, que ce soit en raison des réductions négociées du soutien ou en raison des litiges portés devant le mécanisme de règlement des différents de l'OMC. Le présent article traite du soutien du revenu et des prix du marché dans le contexte de ces contraintes de l'OMC.
Production Effects of the European Union's Single Farm Payment
Authors: Rude James
Published: November 2008

Since 1992, reform of the EU's Common Agricultural Policy has involved several rounds that have gradually changed the method of support from market‐based intervention purchases to direct producer payments. The Single Farm Payment (SFP) was introduced most recently and is claimed to be decoupled from production decisions. This study examines whether or not the SFP induces extra production. The study finds that the SFP provided less production incentives and is less trade distorting than the prior system of compensatory payments. Lessons from the EU policy reform for agricultural policy reform in Canada are also considered.

Depuis 1992, la réforme de la Politique agricole commune (PAC) de l'UE a fait l'objet de plusieurs négociations qui ont peu à peu changé les formes de soutien, du système d'achat à l'intervention fondé sur le marché aux paiements directs versés aux producteurs. Le régime de paiement unique (RPU) a été mis en place plus récemment, et l'on prétend qu'il est indépendant des décisions de production. Dans la présente étude, nous avons examiné le RPU afin de savoir s'il stimulait ou non la production supplémentaire. Selon notre étude, le RPU offre moins d'incitatifs de production et entraîne moins de distorsion commerciale que le régime de paiements compensatoires antérieur. Nous avons aussi examiné les leçons qui pourraient être tirées de la réforme de la politique agricole de l'UE et appliquées à une réforme de la politique agricole au Canada.
Contemporary Farm Income Support Policy in Canada: The Case of Prairie Agriculture since 1996
Authors: Wipf Kevin G.
Published: November 2008

This paper investigates the degree of provincialism, autonomous policy formulation and program implementation, in farm income support in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta after 1995. It finds that of the three prairie provinces only Alberta undertook autonomous program creation. Correspondingly, Alberta bargained for provincial discretion in federal–provincial negotiations, while Manitoba and Saskatchewan insisted that the federal government is to assume primary responsibility for farm income support. The direction that each province took in regards to program implementation and in federal–provincial negotiations stemmed to a considerable extent from the policy‐making structures the provinces created in order to engage their farm communities in policy development. In Alberta additional factors were the strong influence of rural representatives in its government and its rich public purse. In Manitoba and Saskatchewan the comparatively small government budgets and the governments' desire not to run large budget deficits were other relevant factors.

Le présent article examine le degré de provincialisme, l'élaboration de politiques et la mise en place de programmes autonomes ainsi que le soutien du revenu agricole au Manitoba, en Saskatchewan et en Alberta depuis 1995. Nos résultats ont indiqué que, des trois provinces des Prairies, seule l'Alberta a procédéà la création de programmes autonomes. L'Alberta a demandé un pouvoir discrétionnaire dans les négociations fédérales‐provinciales, tandis que le Manitoba et la Saskatchewan ont insisté pour que le gouvernement fédéral assume la responsabilité principale du soutien du revenu agricole. L'orientation des provinces concernant la mise en place de programmes et les négociations fédérales‐provinciales provenait, en très grande partie, des structures d'élaboration des politiques qu'elles ont mises en place en vue de favoriser la participation de leurs collectivités agricoles au processus d'élaboration des politiques. En Alberta, la forte influence des représentants des collectivités rurales au sein du gouvernement et l'importance des fonds publics ont constitué d'autres facteurs. Au Manitoba et en Saskatchewan, des budgets gouvernementaux restreints et le souhait de ne pas enregistrer de déficits budgétaires importants ont constitué d'autres facteurs pertinents.
Canadian Agricultural Programs and Paradigms:The Influence of International Trade Agreements and Domestic Factors
Authors: Skogstad Grace
Published: November 2008

Tracing developments over the past two decades with respect to Canadian farm income support, orderly grain marketing, and supply management, this article argues that Canadian agricultural policy has undergone programmatic, but not paradigmatic policy change. International trade agreements, alongside domestic factors like budgetary pressures, have helped to promote programmatic change. However, paradigmatic change in the form of a rejection of the core ideas and instruments of the post Second World War state assistance paradigm has not yet occurred. The article discusses the conditions for paradigmatic change and argues that the state assistance paradigm is likely to prevail until influential decision makers becoming convinced of its failure and judge an alternate paradigm to be politically and economically viable.

Un examen des changements survenus sur le plan du soutien du revenu agricole au cours des vingt dernières années, notamment la commercialisation des grains et la gestion de l'offre, indique que la politique agricole canadienne a subi des changements programmatiques et non paradigmatiques. Les accords de commerce internationaux, combinés à des facteurs intérieurs tels que les pressions budgétaires, ont contribuéà la promotion de changements programmatiques. Cependant, le changement paradigmatique sous la forme du rejet des idées et des instruments de base d'aide de l'État après la Seconde Guerre mondiale ne s'est pas encore produit. Le présent article traite des conditions préalables au changement paradigmatique et soutient que le paradigme de l'aide de l'État continuera probablement d'exister jusqu'à ce que des décideurs influents soient convaincus de son échec et estiment qu'un paradigme de rechange pourrait être politiquement et économiquement viable.
The Emergence of Agricultural Marketing Boards Revisited: A Case Study in Canada
Authors: Royer Annie
Published: November 2008

Canadian milk marketing boards are agricultural institutions tightly linked to the administration of dairy programs and supply management. Using insights from the New Institutional Economics (NIE) literature this paper investigates the factors influencing the emergence of these self‐regulated, “hybrid” institutions that are managed by producers but necessitate governmental intervention to be operational. Our analysis focuses on the case of the Québec milk marketing board. It shows that the Québec milk board ensured transactional security among trading partners, where neither pure private ordering contract enforcement institutions, nor pure public ordering institutions would have succeeded to do so. The empirical case of the Québec milk board thus suggests that marketing boards in Canada may have historically assumed a broader function than merely increasing producers' rents.

Au Canada, les offices de mise en marché du lait sont des institutions agricoles étroitement liées à l'administration de programmes laitiers et à la gestion de l'offre. À l'aide de la documentation sur la nouvelle économie institutionnelle, le présent article examine les facteurs qui influencent l'émergence de ces institutions hybrides et autoréglementées, qui sont administrées par les producteurs mais nécessitent l'intervention gouvernementale pour être opérationnelles. Notre analyse s'est penchée sur le cas de l'office de commercialisation du lait du Québec. Notre analyse a montré que l'office de commercialisation du Québec assurait une sécurité transactionnelle entre les partenaires commerciaux, ce qu'aucune institution privée ou publique n'aurait réussi à faire. Le cas empirique de l'office de commercialisation du lait du Québec autorise à penser que les offices de mise en marché au Canada ont peut‐être assumé une fonction plus large que celle d'avoir accru la rente économique des producteurs.
Welfare Implications of EU Enlargement under the CAP
Authors: Schmitz Troy G. , Giese Christopher R. , Shultz II Clifford J.
Published: November 2008

The qualitative impacts of European Union (EU) enlargement on intervention prices, variable import levies, and export restitution payments for cereal under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) are analyzed using a partial equilibrium framework for EU cereal crops. The welfare implications are developed for both a net exporter and net importer. Consumer surplus, producer surplus, government revenue, and total welfare are compared and contrasted for the EU and the new entrant, both before and after enlargement.

Dans le présent article, les répercussions qualitatives de l'élargissement de l'UE sur les prix d'intervention, les prélèvements variables à l'importation et les paiements de restitution à l'exportation des céréales dans le cadre de la Politique agricole commune (PAC) sont analysés à l'aide d'un modèle d'équilibre partiel pour les cultures céréalières de l'UE. Les répercussions sur le bien–être sont élaborées dans le cas d'un exportateur net et d'un importateur net. Le surplus des consommateurs, le surplus des producteurs, les recettes publiques et le bien–être total sont comparés pour l'UE et le nouveau venu, et ce, avant et après l'élargissement de l'UE.
European Enlargement and Agro‐Food Trade
Authors: Bojnec Štefan , Fertő Imre
Published: November 2008

This paper investigates the level, composition, and differences in the dynamics of revealed comparative advantage and trade specialization patterns of the 12 new member states (NMS‐12) as part of the enlarged European Union 27 countries (EU‐27). The NMS‐12 are classified into four country groups: the Baltic States, the CEFTA‐5, and the Mediterranean and the Balkan regions. The empirical analysis employs a regression framework, a duration analysis, Markov transition probability matrices, and mobility indices. Trade increases with the EU enlargement and so does revealed comparative advantage in agro‐food products. There are catching‐up difficulties, as indicated by revealed comparative advantage, in higher added‐value processed products.

Le présent article examine le degré, la composition et les différences de la dynamique des avantages comparatifs révélés ainsi que les caractéristiques de la spécialisation du commerce des douze nouveaux pays membres (NPM‐12) de l'Union européenne élargie (UE–27). Les 12 nouveaux pays membres sont divisés en quatre groupes: les États baltiques, les cinq pays membres de l'ALECE, la région de la Méditerranée et la région des Balkans. L'analyse empirique utilise un modèle de régression, une analyse de durée, des matrices de probabilités des transitions (Markov) et des indices de mobilité. Les échanges augmentent avec l'élargissement de l'UE tout comme les avantages comparatifs révélés des produits agroalimentaires. On observe des difficultés de rattrapage, comme l'indique l'avantage comparatif révélé, dans le cas des produits transformés à forte valeur ajoutée.
Effectiveness of the river environment classification in the Auckland Region
Authors: Inglis Liza , Boothroyd Ian K. G. , Brierley Gary
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  The River Environment Classification (REC) provides a GIS‐based tool to differentiate between biophysical attributes of river systems. This study tests the effectiveness of the REC as a tool to differentiate physical habitat and macroinvertebrate assemblages between four classes of stream in the Auckland region. Results indicate significant within‐class variability in physical habitat and macroinvertebrate assemblages, with considerable overlap among the four classes. Biophysically meaningful stream classes cannot be identified from GIS‐derived data applied in this research. Field analyses of physical habitat (i.e. geomorphic river condition) are required as a supplementary tool to interpret ecological relationships for differing stream types.
Border geostrategies: Imagining and administering New Zealand's post‐World War One borders
Authors: Henry Matthew
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  This paper examines the emergence of an administrative apparatus designed to filter, and in some cases, exclude certain classes of international traveller at the New Zealand border following the end of World War One (WWI). Drawing on Walters’ (2004) ideas of ‘geostrategies’, and specifically focusing on the abolishment of permits for movement across the Tasman Sea, the Undesirable Immigrants Exclusion Act 1919 and the Immigration Restriction Amendment Act 1920, the paper argues that this apparatus was characterized by shifting calculations of risk that shaped international mobility through New Zealand in profoundly uneven ways.
Trajectories of protection: Protectorates of Aborigines in early 19th century Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Lester Alan , Dussart Fae
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  This article tracks the passage of Aboriginal protection, as a contested imperial institution, from the Caribbean to Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand via the Cape Colony and Britain. In doing so, it reconfigures the historical geographies of colonial philanthropy, and of those individuals who sought to implement and resist it, as a set of specific, intersecting trajectories. These trajectories, of people, ideas and texts, both connected and remade multiple colonial places. The article also advocates positioning the contemporary politics of the colonial past in Britain, Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, within a wider, trans‐imperial, set of connections.
Estimating economic impacts in New Zealand: Technical issues
Authors: Schumacher Christoph , Spoonley Paul
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  This technical paper describes the techniques used to calculate future economic impacts, using two quite different situations: a technology park in a major urban area and the suspension of fees at a tertiary institution in a provincial town. A number of issues arose which required assumptions to be made. Notable among these were the lack of regionalized input–output tables and estimating the ‘leakage’ to economies outside the specified target area.
Critical literacy and the geography classroom: Including gender and feminist perspectives
Authors: Thompson Lee , Clay Tony
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  Teaching secondary school geography students about different perspectives on the way knowledge is produced can be challenging. The forms of critical thinking that are prompted by interrogating the ways in which knowledge are produced equips students with intellectual tools for independent learning; an attribute which is a key feature of successful learners. This article provides an overview of the ways in which gender/feminist perspectives have been generated over time; how the teaching of these perspectives has been included in one New Zealand school, as well as suggesting useful resources.
Broadening the teaching of development in the classroom
Authors: Tallon Rachel
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  A key objective in the New Zealand Curriculum, in the learning area of the social sciences, is that students are taught the knowledge and skills to enable them to explore and analyse people's values and perspectives. A specific achievement standard for the NCEA at Level 2 (year 12) concerns learning about disparities in development within or between countries. This article raises the issue of how the concept of ‘development’ is taught. It outlines some of the historical uses of the term and discusses how the concept is constructed in the curriculum. It explores what students learn about development in the classroom and possibilities for broadening how the concept might be taught.