bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Female Suicides in Diyarbakir, Turkey
Authors: Goren S , Subasi M , Tirasci Y , Ozen S
Published: May 2004

The aim of this study was to investigate the methods used and demographic data of women suicides by examining postmortem investigation and autopsy reports from the Branch of the Council of Forensic Medicine in Diyarbakir Province, Turkey, between 1996 and 2001. Fifty-eight percent (174/302) of suicides were females and 42% (128/302) were males. The suicide rates were similarly higher for females than for males (2.6 and 1.8 per 10,000 population, respectively).

Over half of female suicides (56.3%) occurred in those under 20 years of age. The most common suicide method for women was hanging (32.2%), and for men was firearms (51.7%), but for women younger than 20 years the most frequent method was firearms. Among the female suicides, five (2.8%) were known to have attempted suicide at least once in the past. Twenty-nine women (16.7%) were documented to have any psychiatric illness. None of the women had a history of drug or alcohol abuse. A suicide note was found in only six cases (3.4%). The predominant suicide motive was family problems (in 32% or 56/174).

The higher rate of suicide in females than in males, and the absolute female predominance in suicides in Diyarbakir, Turkey, are in contrast to most of the medical literature and statistical information about suicide rates by country, in which suicide rates are usually higher among males.
Postmortem Citalopram Concentrations: Alone or Along with Other Compounds
Authors: Segura LJ , Bravo B
Published: May 2004

Citalopram, an antidepressant whose use has become more widespread in Spain in recent years participates directly and indirectly in the lethal mechanism in voluntary and involuntary poisonings. There were 30 cases of autopsies in the Madrid region where citalopram and other psychoactive substances (psychotropic drugs, alcohol, opiates) were detected in the corpses. The postmortem citalopram levels in relation to the manner and mechanism of death were evaluated, and a significant difference between the toxic and nontoxic cases (p < 0.01) was found. We studied the citalopram blood levels alone and along with other psychoactive products, and these cases were then further divided into those where the compounds were at deadly levels and those which were not. We found a range of citalopram levels between 0.37 and 0.83 µg/mL in which some cases were associated with citalopram toxicity and others were not. Citalopram blood levels of less than 0.35 µg/mL did not lead to fatal poisoning when it was the sole substance detected.
Using STR Analysis to Detect Human DNA from Exploded Pipe Bomb Devices
Authors: Esslinger KJ , Siegel JA , Spillane H , Stallworth S
Published: May 2004

This study investigated the possibility of recovering a bomb assembler's DNA from an exploded pipe bomb device. Metal and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes were examined to determine if one surface type would allow better DNA recovery than the other. Ten subjects each handled components of one metal and one PVC pipe bomb. The bombs were exploded, the fragments were collected and swabbed using the double swab technique, and the samples were extracted, quantified, amplified, and genotyped using polymerase chain reaction/short tandem repeat (PCR/STR). Of the 20 bombs handled by the subjects, four bombs gave reportable results that matched the subject's known DNA profiles. An additional eight profiles, also matching the subject's known DNA profiles, were generated but were below the reportable threshold. There was no difference in the success rate of obtaining DNA profiles related to the use of either PVC or metal in the manufacture of the pipe bomb. The variables that appeared to have the greatest influence on the success of generating a DNA profile were the amount of fragmentation and subsequent recovery of the bomb fragments. It is suspected that successful DNA profiling could also be dependent upon the bomb assembler's propensity to slough skin cells on objects they handled.
The Evaluation of the Extent of Transporting or "Tracking" an Identifiable Ignitable Liquid (Gasoline) Throughout Fire Scenes During the Investigative Process
Authors: Armstrong A , Babrauskas V , Holmes DL , Martin C , Powell R , Riggs S , Young LD
Published: May 2004

Tests have determined that boots or shoes of individuals at a fire scene do not transport sufficient contaminants (“tracking”) through the fire scene to produce a positive laboratory result for the presence of gasoline in a fire scene that was not present at the time of the fire. Questions about the validity of forensic laboratory results have been raised on the basis that low-level gasoline residues detected in the laboratory samples could have been the result of transporting the residue by footwear contaminated from the fire scene (“tracking”). The data collected in this study establish that "tracking" does not lead to false-positive laboratory results. Canines trained and experienced in the detection of trace ignitable liquid residues were also utilized in this study. The canine results confirmed that properly trained canines show a higher sensitivity than do standard ASTM laboratory techniques for fire debris analysis. In a few cases, canines responded to contamination, but laboratory testing (which is the definitive indicator) did not produce positive results.
The Impact of Daubert: Implications for Testimony and Research in Forensic Anthropology (and the Use of Frontal Sinuses in Personal Identification)
Authors: Christensen AM
Published: May 2004

This paper emphasizes the need for objectivity and standardized methodologies in the forensic sciences, particularly physical anthropology. To this end, a review of important events in scientific evidence admissibility law, particularly the standards set in the case of Daubert v. Merrell-Dow Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 1993, is presented. The method of confirming a putative identification by visual comparison of antemortem and postmortem frontal sinus radiographs is examined in light of current admissibility standards. The technique is revealed to have a number of shortcomings, including a lack of empirical testing, no estimates of potential error rates, no standards controlling the technique's operation, and no objective determination standards. These shortcomings may, in some instances, prevent resulting conclusions from being admissible evidence. It is suggested that some methods (including frontal sinus comparison) may require more rigorous testing in order to meet these new and stricter standards.
Utility of the Y-STR Typing Systems Y-PLEX ™ 6 and Y-PLEX ™ 5 in Forensic Casework and 11 Y-STR Haplotype Database for Three Major Population Groups in the United States
Authors: Sinha SK , Budowle B , Chakraborty R , Paunovic A , Guidry RDV , Larsen C , Lal A , Shaffer M , Pineda G , Sinha SK , Schneida E , Nasir H , Shewale JG
Published: May 2004

The Y-PLEX™ 6 and Y-PLEX™ 5 systems enable analysis for 11 Y-STR loci. We present here the utility of these systems in forensic casework. A total of 188 samples, including 127 evidence samples, were analyzed using either or both of the systems. The evidence sample types included fingernail scrapings, sperm or seminal fluid, epithelial cells, blood and other tissues. The Y-STR typing systems provided useful probative results in difficult cases. A reference database for Caucasian (n = 517), African American (n = 535), and Hispanic (n = 245) population groups within the United States was generated for estimating the haplotype frequency in forensic casework. Among the individuals profiled, 311 Caucasians, 412 African Americans, and 194 Hispanics provided unique profiles in their respective population datasets. This is the first report describing the haplotype database for the set of 11 Y-STR loci recommended by the Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM). Linkage analysis reveals that the frequencies from forensically important autosomal loci can be multiplied with the Y-STR haplotype frequency. The results from Y-PLEX™systems have been accepted in courts in the United States.
A Laboratory Incubation Method for Determining the Rate of Microbiological Degradation of Skeletal Muscle Tissue in Soil
Authors: Tibbett M , Carter DO , Haslam T , Major R , Haslam R
Published: May 2004

A controlled laboratory experiment is described, in principle and practice, which can be used for the of determination the rate of tissue decomposition in soil. By way of example, an experiment was conducted to determine the effect of temperature (12°C, 22°C) on the aerobic decomposition of skeletal muscle tissue (Organic Texel × Suffolk lamb (Ovis aries)) in a sandy loam soil. Measurements of decomposition processes included muscle tissue mass loss, microbial CO2 respiration, and muscle tissue carbon (C) and nitrogen (N). Muscle tissue mass loss at 22°C always was greater than at 12°C (p < 0.001). Microbial respiration was greater in samples incubated at 22°C for the initial 21 days of burial (p < 0.01). All buried muscle tissue samples demonstrated changes in C and N content at the end of the experiment. A significant correlation (p < 0.001) was demonstrated between the loss of muscle tissue-derived C (C1) and microbially-respired C (Cm) demonstrating CO2 respiration may be used to predict mass loss and hence biodegradation. In this experiment Q10 (12°C - 22°C) = 2.0. This method is recommended as a useful tool in determining the effect of environmental variables on the rate of decomposition of various tissues and associated materials.
Sudden Death Caused by 1,1-difluoroethane Inhalation
Authors: Xiong Z , Avella J , Wetli CV
Published: May 2004

A 20-year-old man was found dead on the floor next to a computer, with a nearly full can of “CRC Duster” dust remover located next to the deceased on the floor, and an empty can of the same product on the computer desk. Toxicologic evaluation using either gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) or gas chromatography/flame ionization detector (GC/FID) method identified the active ingredient 1,1-difluoroethane (Freon 152a) in all tissues analyzed. Tissue distribution studies revealed highest concentration in central blood, lung, and liver. It is believed that the 1,1-difluoroethane inhalation was the cause of death.
A Study on the Effects of Degradation and Template Concentration on the Amplification Efficiency of the STR Miniplex Primer Sets
Authors: Chung DT , Drábek J , Opel KL , Butler JM , McCord BR
Published: May 2004

In forensic DNA analysis, the samples recovered from the crime scene are often highly degraded leading to poor PCR amplification of the larger sized STR loci. To avoid this problem, we have developed STR markers with redesigned primer sequences called "Miniplexes" to produce smaller amplicons. To assess the effectiveness of these kits, we have tested these primer sets with enzymatically degraded DNA and compared the amplifications to a commercial kit. We also conducted sensitivity and peak balance studies of three Miniplex sets. Lastly, we report a case study on two human skeletal remain samples collected from different environmental conditions. In both types of degraded DNA, the Miniplex primer sets were capable of producing more complete profiles when compared to the larger sized amplicons from the commercial kit. Correct genotypes were obtained at template concentrations as low as 31 pg/25 цL. Overall, our data confirm that our redesigned primers can increase the probability of obtaining a usable profile in situations where standard kits fail.
Virtopsy: Forensic Traumatology of the Subcutaneous Fatty Tissue; Multislice Computed Tomography (MSCT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) as Diagnostic Tools
Authors: Yen K , Vock P , Tiefenthaler B , Ranner G , Scheurer E , Thali MJ , Zwygart K , Sonnenschein M , Wiltgen M , Dirnhofer R
Published: May 2004

Traumatic lesions of the subcutaneous fatty tissue provide important clues for forensic reconstruction. The interpretation of these patterns requires a precise description and recording of the position and extent of each lesion. During conventional autopsy, this evaluation is performed by dissecting the skin and subcutaneous tissues in successive layers.

In this way, depending on the force and type of impact (right angle or tangent), several morphologically distinct stages of fatty tissue damage can be differentiated: perilobular hemorrhage (I), contusion (II), or disintegration (III) of the fat lobuli, and disintegration with development of a subcutaneous cavity (IV).

In examples of virtopsy cases showing blunt trauma to the skin and fatty tissue, we analyzed whether these lesions can also be recorded and classified using multislice computed tomography (MSCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MSCT has proven to be a valuable screening method to detect the lesions, but MRI is necessary in order to properly differentiate and classify the grade of damage. These noninvasive radiological diagnostic tools can be further developed to play an important role in forensic examinations, in particular when it comes to evaluating living trauma victims.
Recovery and Identification of the Victims of the Ehime Maru/USS Greeneville Collision at Sea
Authors: Lewis JA , Shiroma CY , Guenthner KV , Dunn KN
Published: May 2004

This paper describes the recovery and identification of crew members lost during a collision at sea. On 9 February 2001, south of Honolulu, Hawaii, the Japanese fishing training boat, Ehime Maru was struck by the USS Greeneville (SSN 772), a Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine. Witnesses estimate that the vessel sank within 5–10 min after the collision. Nine of the 35 crew members remained unaccounted for after rescue procedures were completed. The U.S. Navy attempted the unprecedented procedure of moving the boat from a depth of 610 m (2000 ft) into shallower waters so that the missing could be located and recovered. Eight of the nine crew members were recovered and identified by their dental records.
Esophageal and Pharyngeal Injuries Associated with the Use of the Esophageal-Tracheal Combitube
Authors: Stoppacher R , Teggatz JR , Jentzen J M
Published: May 2004

The Combitube® is a ventilatory device consisting of a twin lumen tube with proximal and distal inflatable cuffs. The major benefit of the Combitube® is that its design and function allow for ventilation through non-laryngoscope-assisted insertion into either the trachea, or esophagus. As with any invasive procedure, intubation using the Combitube® carries certain risks and potential complications. The majority of complications are relatively minor; however, a rare and serious complication reported primarily in the anesthesiology literature is laceration of the esophagus. This reportedly rare injury is increasingly seen by medical examiners/coroners in the forensic setting.

This paper presents a series of three cases of esophageal laceration and a single case of perforation of the hypopharynx associated with the use of the Combitube®, while also exploring potential mechanisms of injury. In addition, this work demonstrates the vital role the medical examiner/coroner plays in identifying existing or potential problems with current or emerging medical devices.
Development of a Simulation Model to Assess the Impact of Contamination in Casework Using STRs
Authors: Gill P , Kirkham A
Published: May 2004

Because contamination is usually tube-specific, negative controls cannot give assurance that an associated batch of extracted casework material is contaminant-free. However, it is possible to use them to predict the level of overall (undetected) contamination that is processed by an operational DNA unit. A MATLAB®-based program was used to combine results of negative controls with actual casework DNA profiles to assess the probability that laboratory contaminants will give rise to reportable profiles (along with their likelihood ratios). Using data from an operational DNA unit as an example, it was demonstrated that the risk is inextricably linked to guidelines used to interpret DNA profiles. We have demonstrated how computer-based models can predict the levels of contamination expected in the process and, in addition, how the process can be made more robust by changing reporting guidelines. There is a need to compare DNA profiles against staff and plasticware elimination databases in order to determine sources of contamination. The likeliest outcome of a contamination event is false exclusion.
Frequency of Serial Sexual Homicide Victimization in Virginia for a Ten-Year Period
Authors: McNamara JJ , Morton RJ
Published: May 2004

The frequency of serial sexual murder has been widely discussed, and estimates of the number of victims in the United States range from 500 to 6000 per year. This study attempted to quantify the number of serial sexual murder victims in Virginia for a ten-year period. Multiple sources of data were utilized, including Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) case files, FBI's Violent Criminal Apprehension Program (ViCAP) reports, Virginia State Police ViCAP reports, Virginia Homicide Investigators Association, and the Virginia Division of Forensic Science DNA database, to effectively cull out all the known serial sexual murder victims for the given time period. Review of these records revealed a total of 28 victims of serial sexual murder, compared with a total of 5183 murder victims for the same ten-year period. The frequency of serial sexual victimization was 0.5% of all homicides for the given period. These results highlight the unusual frequency of serial sexual murder. Erratum to this paper appears in 49(3).
Two X-Chromosome STR Loci DXS6 803 and XS6793 Frequency Data in Chinese Population
Authors: Jia Y , Zhou B , Liang WB , Lv ML , Zhang L
Published: May 2004

90 unrelated females and 90 unrelated males volunteer donors, Southwest China
Autosomic STR Loci (HUMTPOX, HUMTH01, HUMVWA, D18S535, D1S1656 and D12S391) in San Salvador (El Salvador, Central America)
Authors: Martínez-Jarreta B , Vásquez P , Abecia E , Garde M , de Blás I , Budowle B
Published: May 2004

This study involved the analysis of six STR in 120 male individuals from San Salvador which is the capital city of El Salvador (Central America). They represent a prominent population of the country: Mestizos who are descendents of Spanish and Amerindian people. The data can be used for forensic and paternity analyses where this population may be relevant.
Human Y-Chromosomal Short Tandem Repeat DXYS156 in an Indian Population Sample
Authors: Ghosh A , Seshadri M
Published: May 2004

Allele frequencies for Y-specific short tandem repeat (STR) locus DXYS156 was determined for 120 male individuals from India. DXYS156 locus maps to the short arm of the Y-chromosome (Yp) and consists of a pentanucleotide repeat (TAAAA)n. The samples used for the present study belonged to four endogamous population groups: Konkanastha Brahmins, Marathas, Ezhavas and Nairs. The former two populations belonged to the western region while the latter two groups are from the southwestern region of India.
Molecular Genetic Analysis of TPO and CD4 Loci Among Two Endogamous Ethnic Groups of Maharashtra in Western India
Authors: Das B , Seshadri M
Published: May 2004

Molecular genetic polymorphism study was undertaken in two endogamous ethnic groups of Maharashtra in Western India at two microsatellites i.e., TPO, a tetranucleotide repeat locus and CD4, a pentanucleotide repeat locus. The two ethnic groups studied were Konkanastha Brahmins and Marathas belonging to Indo-European language family. Eighty-two random, unrelated individuals were genotyped for the locus TPO, whereas for CD4 locus, 79 individuals were genotyped.
Review of: Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives
Authors: Davis GJ
Published: May 2004

Vernon Geberth, retired New York City Police Department Lieutenant Commander and editor of CRC Press' series, Practical Aspects of Criminal and Forensic Investigations, has given the law enforcement and wider forensic community a needed textbook, Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives. Already justifiably well-known for his Practical Homicide Investigation: Tactics, Procedures, and Forensic Techniques, now in its third edition, and for his courses in homicide investigation, Geberth draws upon his considerable experience and that of myriad others in offering the reader a didactic and pragmatic new book in investigating sexual assault homicides.
Review of: Effective Interviewing and Interrogation Techniques
Authors: Reed HC
Published: May 2004

This text is one of a limited number of books which address the subject of the use of interviewing and interrogation techniques by professional investigators. The authors of Effective Interviewing and Interrogation Techniques are polygraph examiners who also conduct training for polygraph examiners and for interviewers. The authors tip their hats to a series of past and current polygraph examiners who have written and lectured on the subject since the 1930s.
Review of: Forensic Voice Identification
Authors: Bohan TL
Published: May 2004

Dr. Hollien states that his most important reason for writing this book2 was to reduce the gap separating the two components of voice-identification professionals: engineers and phoneticians. As one of the latter group, he attributes the gap as arising, on the one hand, from the engineers' belief that the phoneticians are insufficiently quantitavie and, on the other, the phoneticians' belief that the engineers are ignorant of the “soft” information that assists in voice identification.3 Since, by profession and temperament, I value quantitavie evaluations of forensic techniques and am impatient with hand-waving arguments, I approached this review biased toward the engineering camp, which meant that I would be able to gauge how well the author succeeds in his gap-narrowing effort. Stated differently, I felt that I could gauge how half of his taget audience would receive the boo.
Review of: Introduction to Environmental Forensics
Authors: Lentini JJ
Published: May 2004

Since the passage of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act or CERCLA, commonly referred to as Superfund, the interest in and demand for forensic analyses of environmental problems has grown dramatically. The 1980 law established prohibitions and requirements concerning closed and abandoned hazardous waste sites; provided for liability of persons responsible for releases of hazardous waste at these sites; and established a trust fund to provide for cleanup when no responsible party could be identified. The act was amended by the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) in 1986 to increase the involvement of state governments, and many states have environmental regulations mirroring the federal Superfund rules. In addition to assigning responsibility for Superfund sites, there is a demand for forensic scientists to assist in the identification of entities responsible for marine spills, and for the assessment of real estate prior to sale.
Review of: Case Studies in Forensic Epidemiology
Authors: Sanders J
Published: May 2004

This volume is intended to be a textbook on the intersection of law and epidemiology. The book is divided into four parts: epidemiology in the courtroom, epidemiology in legislation and administrative rule making, community organization and advocacy group use of epidemiology in advocacy efforts designed to change law, and a final section on the role of epidemiological research in social debates about deviance. Each part of the book includes an introductory chapter that sets forth general issues, followed by two “case study” chapters that are designed to flesh out the issues in a particular area. Chapter 1 begins the first part with a very useful introductory summary of epidemiological methods and an introductory overview of the law of torts. The chapter compares and contrasts standards for the proof of causation in each area. Chapter 2 is a “case study” of the silicone breast implant litigation, and Chapter 3 a “case study” of a lawsuit involving an E. coli outbreak in which the author was an expert witness.
Review of: Alchemy of Bones: Chicago's Luetgert Murder Case of 1897
Authors: DeHaan JD
Published: May 2004

As a criminalist interested in historic cases, I had heard only whispers about the Luetgert murder case. Even in Chicago, it was mentioned only in anthologies such as those by Jay Robert Nash. Now thanks to Robert Loerzel, an investigative reporter from Chicago, this fascinating case comes to life to show forensic scientists and investigators how much has changed (and hasn't changed) in the 100 years since it captured the nation's attention.
Review of: Forensic Investigation of Clandestine Laboratories
Authors: Cason TD
Published: May 2004

This volume provides a helpful resource both for those familiar with assisting in the seizure of clandestine laboratories and for those who may be interested in becoming involved in this particular endeavor. It will not, as the author notes, train you to be a clandestine laboratory investigator. Reading this book is rather cumbersome due to the writing style and somewhat excessive wordiness and would certainly have benefited from some additional editing. Much of what is written in the early chapters appears to be presented more as an idealistic or academic review of the stepwise processes rather than a “real world” portrait of the way clandestine laboratory seizures frequently occur. For example, the text emphasizes the “on site” evaluation of seized chemicals and equipment to make a determination of the target drug and of the synthesis method being used. Quite often, however, this information is already known prior to the lab seizure and is, in part, the basis for obtaining a search warrant.
Review of: Forensic Pathology (2nd edition)
Authors: Bell MD
Published: May 2004

This is the second edition of a general forensic pathology book, first published in 1989 and now updated in this 2003 edition. The book has 62 additional pages compared with the original edition. There are two additional chapters entitled “Nursing Home Deaths” and “Sudden Death During or Immediately after a Violent Struggle.” The latter topic was covered briefly in the first edition, but now has its own chapter. The Table of Contents in this new edition has been expanded to help narrow the search for a specific topic. Eleven color photographs have been added to the original 8 color photographs in the first edition, although they are 2-3/8 × 1-1/2 in. compared to the original 2-7/8 × 4-1/2 in. size. The same high quality black and white photographs remain in the second edition. Some of the photographs have identifying autopsy numbers and I would recommend that the publisher remove them in any future editions. Some of the diagrams (such as Fig. 6.16) appear hand drawn and would benefit from the expertise of a professional anatomic artist.
Evidence‐Based Core Clinical Pharmacy Services in United States Hospitals in 2020: Services and Staffing
Authors: Bond C. A. , Raehl Cynthia L. , Patry Roland
Published: May 2004

We developed a model for the provision of clinical pharmacy services in United States hospitals in 2020. Data were obtained from four National Clinical Pharmacy Services database surveys (1989, 1992, 1995, and 1998) and from the American Health‐System Association's 2000 Abridged Guide to the Health Care Field. Staffing data from 1998 indicated that 45,734 pharmacist and 43,836 pharmacy technician full‐time equivalent (FTE) staff were employed in U.S. hospitals; 17,325 pharmacist FTEs (38%) were devoted to providing clinical pharmacy services. To provide 14 specific clinical pharmacy services for 100% of U.S. inpatients in 2020, 37,814 new FTEs would be needed. For a more realistic manpower projection, using an evidence‐based approach, a set of five core clinical pharmacy services were selected based on favorable associations with major health care outcomes (mortality rate, drug costs, total cost of care, length of hospital stay, and medication errors). The core set of services were drug information, adverse drug reaction management, drug protocol management, medical rounds, and admission drug histories. Implementing these core clinical pharmacy services for 100% of inpatients in 2020 would require 14,508 additional pharmacist FTEs. Based on the current deployment of clinical pharmacists and the services they perform in U.S. hospitals, change is needed to improve health care outcomes and reduce costs. The average U.S. hospital (based on an average daily census of 108.97 ± 169.45 patients) would need to add a maximum of 3.32 pharmacist FTEs to provide these core clinical services (if they were not provided already by the hospital). Using this evidence‐based approach, the five selected core clinical pharmacy services could be provided with only modest increases in clinical pharmacist staffing.
Pharmacokinetic Characteristics of Ritonavir, Zidovudine, Lamivudine, and Stavudine in Children with Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Fletcher Courtney V. , Yogev Ram , Nachman Sharon A. , Wiznia Andrew , Pelton Stephen , McIntosh Kenneth , Stanley Kenneth
Published: May 2004

Study Objective. To evaluate and describe the parameters and characteristics of different drug regimens in children infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Design. Randomized, open‐label, multicenter study.

Setting. Pediatric HIV research clinics in the United States and Puerto Rico.

Patients. Twenty‐one HIV‐infected children, aged 3–14 years, who were clinically stable and treated with the same antiretroviral therapy for 16 weeks or longer.

Intervention. In step 1, children were randomized to receive one of three treatment regimens: zidovudine plus lamivudine, ritonavir plus zidovudine and lamivudine, or ritonavir plus stavudine. Patients originally assigned to the zidovudine plus lamivudine group in step 1 were eligible to progress to step 2 if their HIV RNA values at week 12, 24, or 36 were 10,000 copies/ml or greater but 100,000 copies/ml or less. In step 2 they received a regimen of ritonavir plus stavudine and nevirapine.

Measurements and Main Results. Seven children were randomized to each of the three treatment regimens. Concentrations of the agents were quantitated at steady state after observed doses, and the pharmacokinetic parameters were determined. Nevirapine concentrations were not determined. One child was excluded from analysis because pharmacokinetic parameters could not be estimated. Ritonavir oral clearance was slower in the pooled cohort of children who received stavudine compared with zidovudine and lamivudine. Stavudine oral clearance was marginally faster when combined with ritonavir and nevirapine compared with only ritonavir.

Conclusion. Therapy for HIV is complex, and pharmacodynamic data indicate that relationships exist between systemic concentrations of antiretroviral drugs and virologic response. Careful drug interaction studies have not been conducted for all treatment regimens, and it will not be surprising if unexpected interactions are found. Pharmacokinetic studies to address these considerations should be viewed as a fundamental component of antiretroviral drug development, as they represent a tool to improve pharmacotherapy for HIV‐infected children.
Impact of the Women's Health Initiative Trial Results on Hormone Replacement Therapy
Authors: Bestul Megan B. , McCollum Marianne , Hansen Laura B. , Saseen Joseph J.
Published: May 2004

Study Objective. To describe the impact of the results of the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) discontinuation rates.

Design. Retrospective chart review.

Setting. University‐based family medicine clinic.

Subjects. Ninety‐eight postmenopausal women (aged 50–79 yrs) with an intact uterus who were receiving HRT.

Measurements and Main Results. Two study periods were defined: pre‐WHI (July 9, 2001–January 9, 2002) and post‐WHI (July 9, 2002–January 9, 2003). Patient demographics and HRT discontinuation or persistence data were collected. Seven women were eligible for only for pre‐WHI, 13 only for post‐WHI, and 78 were eligible for both groups based on HRT use during both time periods. Forty‐two of the 78 women were randomized to the pre‐WHI group and 36 to the post‐WHI group to yield equal groups of 49 each. No significant demographic differences existed between the groups. Time‐to‐event analysis revealed an increased probability of HRT discontinuation after WHI versus before WHI (log‐rank test, p<0.01). A subset of 85 women taking HRT 1 year before WHI were followed for 18 months. Discontinuation rates were 8% (7 of 85 patients) during the 12 months before WHI and 38% (30 of 78) during the 6 months after WHI, with 80% (24 of 30) of these patients discontinuing within 3 months.

Conclusion. Increased HRT discontinuation was temporally associated with release of WHI data, which implies that highly publicized, negative outcomes data can quickly influence pharmacotherapy decisions.
Acridine orange staining method to reveal the characteristic features of an intravascular threadlike structure
Authors: Lee Byung‐Cheon , Baik Ku Youn , Johng Hyeon‐Min , Nam Tae Jeong , Lee Jawoong , Sung Baeckkyoung , Choi Chunho , Park Won‐Hee , Park Eun‐Sung , Park Dae‐Hun , Yoon Yeo‐Sung , Soh Kwang‐Sup
Published: May 2004

A threadlike structure in blood vessels that is considered part of the Bohghan duct system was first reported about 40 years ago. This structure has remained elusive since then due to the inability of other researchers to duplicate the original identification. In this study we identified the characteristic features of this threadlike structure in rats by the use of fluorescent microscope imaging of nuclei stained by acridine orange perfusion. The nuclei of the tissue that comprises the structure are rod‐shaped, 10–20 μm long, and aligned in a broken‐line striped fashion. The novel technique reported here can differentiate the intravascular threadlike structure from the fibrin strings that normally form during perfusion and can confound the observation procedure. The physiological function of the threadlike structure remains to be elucidated; however, further study may provide a new understanding of mammalian biology in general, and of acupuncture and Oriental medicine in particular. Anat Rec (Part B: New Anat) 278B:27–30, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Zum Trag‐ und Verformungsverhalten großformatiger geschoßhoher Sanierungs‐Dämmelemente unter statischer Mitwirkung der außenseitigen Putzdeckschicht
Authors: Sieder Mike , Reyer Eckhard
Published: May 2004

Das niedrige Wärmeschutzniveau unserer Altbauten (hier: vor 1982 errichtete Gebäude) und deren hoher Anteil am Gesamtgebäudebestand (ca. 77 %) führt dazu, daß die Gesamtheit der Altbauten ca. 95 % der jährlich bundesweit benötigten Heizenergie verbraucht, vgl. [1] und [2]. Die wärmeschutztechnische Verbesserung der Außenwände von Altbauten stellt deshalb einen wichtigen Beitrag zur Energieeinsparung, zum Umweltschutz und zum nachhaltigen Umgang mit den begrenzten Energieressourcen dar.

Einen Großteil der Altbausubstanz bilden Mehrfamilien‐Wohngebäude mit mehr als vier Wohneinheiten, die große Fassadenflächen mit Wiederholungsfaktor aufweisen. Für effiziente Wärmedämm‐ und Sanierungsmaßnahmen spielen Zeit‐ und Kostenaufwand, Beeinträchtigung der Gebäudenutzung während der Maßnahme sowie die Qualitätssicherung eine wesentliche Rolle. Eine Lösungsmöglichkeit bietet die Applikation vorgefertigter Dämmelemente, die möglichst großformatig sein sollten. Bedingt durch die Vorfertigung und die Applikation über möglichst wenige Befestigungspunkte müssen solche Elemente als selbsttragende Konstruktion konzipiert werden und neben architektonischen und bauphysikalischen Aspekten deshalb auch statischen Gesichtspunkten genügen. Durch Anwendung etablierter Oberflächenmaterialien, wie z. B. Putz, ergeben sich Konstruktionen, deren Tragsicherheit, bauphysikalische Eignung, Dauerhaftigkeit und Gebrauchstauglichkeit für den entsprechenden Anwendungsfall sichergestellt werden müssen.
Einwirkung von Bitumen auf Kunststoff‐Dach‐ und ‐Dichtungsbahnen
Authors: Glück Leopold
Published: May 2004

Die Bitumenverträglichkeit wird zukünftig nach der europäischen Norm DIN EN 1548 geprüft und nach DIN EN 13956 bewertet werden. Die Ergebnisse belegen, daß die in der derzeitigen Fassung der vorstehenden Normen vorgesehenen Verfahren und Bewertungen nur unzureichend geeignet sind, eine zuverlässige Beurteilung und Einstufung der Bahnen in bitumenverträglich oder nicht bitumenverträglich vorzunehmen. Auch einige aktuelle Einstufungen von Herstellern müssen als kritisch angesehen werden.
Einfluß der Deckenschlankheit auf den Durchstanzwiderstand nach DIN 1045‐1, SIA 262, Ö‐Norm B 4700(01) und Eurocode prEN 1992‐1‐1
Authors: Hegger Josef , Beutel Rüdiger , Kerkeni Naceur
Published: May 2004

Die oben angeführten Normen [1] — [4] zeigen deutliche Bemessungsunterschiede im Bereich des Durchstanzens mit und ohne Durchstanzbewehrung: (a) Flachdecken geringer Schlankheit (λ = Stützweite / statische Nutzhöhe l/d = 20) weisen nach Ö‐Norm B 4700(01) und SIA 262 einen höheren Durchstanzwiderstand auf als schlanke Flachdecken (l = l/d = 35). Nach DIN 1045‐1 und prEN 1992‐1‐1 bleibt dieser günstige Systemeinfluß unberücksichtigt. (b) Nach prEN 1992‐1‐1 übersteigt der maximale Durchstanzwiderstand für Bügel die Durchstanztragfähigkeit von Doppelkopfankern, was den Erfahrungen aus Versuchen widerspricht [5]. Im Beitrag werden die Bemessungsunterschiede bewertet, der Einfluß einer Gewölbetragwirkung in Abhängigkeit von der Deckenschlankheit diskutiert und baupraktische Empfehlungen zur Durchstanzbemessung gegeben.
Kellerwände aus unbewehrtem Beton
Authors: Hegger Josef , Will Norbert , Niewels Jörg
Published: May 2004

Ausgehend von DIN 1045‐1 und DIN 1045 werden unter Berücksichtigung der Verformungsfähigkeit Bemessungsnomogramme für unbewehrte Betonwände im Kellerbereich vorgestellt, deren Hauptanwendungsgebiet im Wohnungsbau liegt. Durch Ausnutzung der Verformungsfähigkeit kann die rechnerische Traglast für durch Erddruck beanspruchte unbewehrte Kelleraußenwände gegenüber einer bisher üblichen Bemessung deutlich gesteigert werden. Im Auftrag der Forschungsgemeinschaft Transportbeton e.V. wurden auf der Grundlage des hier dargestellten Bemessungskonzepts Typenstatiken nach DIN 1045‐1 [5] und DIN 1045 [6] aufgestellt.
Neue Konstruktionsprinzipien bei Tunnelinnenschalen
Authors: Hemmy Olaf , Falkner Horst
Published: May 2004

Durch Bewehrungs‐ und Querschnittsoptimierung können das Gebrauchs‐ und Tragverhalten von Tunnelinnenschalen verbessert werden. Der Beitrag zeigt die Vorgangsweise. Insbesondere durch einen beschleunigten Baufortschritt ist mit Wettbewerbsvorteilen zu rechnen. Eine höhenreduzierte Schale aus Stahlfaserbeton bzw. stahlfaserverstärktem Stahlbeton erweist sich als besonders geeignet für den Lastabtrag einer Tunnelinnenschale — vor allem im Hinblick auf die Rißentwicklung im Gebrauchszustand, die bei einer wasserdichten Schale i. d. R. bemessungsrelevant ist, als vorteilhaft gegenüber einer konventionellen Schale aus Stahlbeton.
Spritzbeton — der etwas andere Beton
Authors: Pittino Gerhard , Gharehkhani Ghorbanali , Krenn Florian , Stelzer Gernot , Golser Johann
Published: May 2004

Spritzbeton ist ein wesentliches Stützmittel bei der „Neuen Österreichischen Tunnelbaumethode”︁. Die Besonderheit des Tunnelausbaus mit Spritzbeton besteht darin, daß bereits dem jungen, noch im Erhärtungsprozeß befindlichen Spritzbeton große Verformungen aufgezwungen werden.

Die Beurteilung der Tragreserve von Spritzbeton über den Beanspruchungsgrad erfordert die Kenntnis seiner i. a. mit der Zeit veränderlichen Spannungen und Festigkeiten. Die problematische Spannungsmessung mittels hydraulischer Druckmeßdosen wird durch Verschiebungs‐ bzw. Dehnungsmessungen und eine Spannungs‐Dehnungsbeziehung ersetzt, die eine Spannungsberechung aus den gemessenen Dehnungen ermöglicht.
Anwendung der neuen Stahlbetonnormen für die Bemessung von Tunnelinnenschalen
Authors: Mattle Bruno , Maier Klemens , Steiner Martin
Published: May 2004

Die in den letzten Jahren in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland und in Österreich errichteten Verkehrstunnel wurden i. a. zweischalig, d. h. mit einer Spritzbetonaußenschale und einer Innenschale aus unbewehrtem Beton oder Stahlbeton hergestellt. Die Bemessung der Innenschalen erfolgte unter Anwendung der Normen DIN 1045 [1] und ÖN B 4200 [2].

Während die neuen Normen wie EC 2 [3], DIN 1045‐1 [4] und ÖN B 4700 [5] im Hochbau schon seit längerem Anwendung finden, ist deren Anwendung für die Bemessung von Tunnelschalen im wesentlichen noch Neuland. Dies betrifft insbesondere die Anwendung des Teilsicherheitskonzeptes und die Möglichkeit, die Schnittgrößen unter Anwendung nichtlinearer Stoffgesetze zu ermitteln. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird die Problematik dargestellt und anhand von Beispielen der Einfluß unterschiedlicher Annahmen aufgezeigt.
Rißbreitennachweis für Kreisquerschnitte
Authors: Wiese Hans , Curbach Manfred , Speck Kerstin , Weiland Silvio , Eckfeldt Lars , Hampel Torsten
Published: May 2004

Bei Kreisquerschnitten wie z. B. Ortbetonpfählen wird häufig der Nachweis der Rißbreite vernachlässigt. Handelt es sich jedoch um vorwiegend momentenbeanspruchte Bauteile, kann u. U. dieser Nachweis maßgebend werden. In diesem Beitrag werden daher alle erforderlichen Grundlagen für das Führen des Rißbreitennachweises an Kreisquerschnitten bereitgestellt.
Modelling and analysis of differential VCOs
Authors: Buonomo A. , Schiavo A. Lo
Published: May 2004

We present a systematic non‐linear analysis of differential voltage controlled oscillators (VCOs), both bipolar and MOS. Using the standard device models, we derive the second‐order non‐linear equation describing the behaviour of these oscillators, which is formulated in a perturbation form. The solution of this equation is obtained as a particular case of the solution of the most general equation of second‐order oscillators, which is solved through a suitable perturbation method. Unlike a pure numerical analysis, simple analytical relationships are derived for predicting the steady‐state oscillation, its transient behaviour and for ascertaining the existence of a stable oscillation in differential VCOs. These relationships, leading to results which well agree with the SPICE simulations, are useful in both analysis and design. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new murine model of humoral immuno‐deficiency specifically affects class switching to T‐independent antigens
Authors: Kuzin Igor I. , Ugine Gregory D. , Barth Richard K. , Shultz Leonard D. , Nahm Moon H. , Young Faith M. , Bottaro Andrea
Published: May 2004

Immunoglobulin (Ig) isotype deficiencies are among the most common and least characterized humoral immunodeficiencies. A thorough understanding of their immunological and genetic features has been hampered by their extreme heterogeneity and the paucity of suitable animal models. Here, we report the initial characterization of a new mouse model with selective Ig deficiency. SENCARA mice display low serum IgG3 levels as well as severely deficient IgG3 responses to T cell‐independent (TI) type 1 and 2 antigens. However, despite the significant block in class switching, expression of activation‐induced deaminase and γ3 germ‐line transcription after TI antigen immunization are normal. IgG3 production in response to in vitro LPS stimulation was also normal, ruling out a specific defect in the Cγ3 switch machinery. A decrease in the number of peritoneal B1a cells and enlarged splenic marginal zones were observed. The immunodeficiency is inherited as an autosomal, semi‐dominant, essentially monogenic trait in SENCARA × C57BL/6 crosses. The SENCARA humoral immunodeficiency constitutes a novel immune phenotype, resembling human conditions such as IgG2 deficiency. This new mouse model will be of interest for the understanding of mechanisms involved in TI immune responses and may provide new insights into the molecular basis of human Ig deficiencies.
Synthesis and Polymerization Performance of PdII Complexes of New 2‐Hydroxyethyl‐Substituted Diphosphane Ligands
Authors: Meier Uwe W. , Thewalt Ulf , Debaerdemaeker Tony , Rieger Bernhard
Published: May 2004

We have synthesized a new diphosphane ligand, 1,3‐bis[(2‐hydroxyethyl)(phenyl)phosphanyl]propane (2*) (*: mixture of meso‐ and racemic diastereoisomers), and its corresponding neutral dichloro palladium(II) (3*), diiodo palladium(II) (4*), and dicationic diacetonitrile palladium(II) ditetrafluoroborate (5*) complexes. Separation of the 4 rac and 4 meso diastereoisomers was achieved by column chromatography and subsequent crystallization. Assignments of the particular complex geometries of 3 meso and 4 rac were facilitated by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. After activation with MAO, complex 3* exhibits superior activity in the homopolymerization of 2‐norbornene relative to that of the dichloro PdII derivative of 1,3‐bis(diphenylphosphanyl)propane (dppp). Compound 5* and the dppp‐analogue possess similar catalytic potentials in ethylene/CO copolymerization experiments. Applying complex 5* to propylene/CO copolymerization leads to highly regio‐ and predominantly stereoregular polyketone materials. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2004)
Studies Related to the Chloro Titanium and Zirconium Complexes with [η5‐Cyclopentadienyldi(silylamido)] Ligands
Authors: Sudupe María , Cano Jesús , Royo Pascual , Herdtweck Eberhardt
Published: May 2004

Trichloro complexes [M{η5‐C5H3[SiMe2(NHtBu)]2}Cl3] [M = Zr (2), Ti (3)] have been synthesized by reaction of the corresponding chlorides MCl4 with the lithium salt LiC5H3[SiMe2(NHtBu)]2 (1). Complexes 2 and 3 react with 2 equiv. of TiCl4 in toluene at 110°C to afford the di(chlorosilyl) derivatives [M{η5‐C5H3(SiMe2Cl)2}Cl3] [M = Ti (5), Zr (8)]. Intermediate formation of [Ti{η5‐C5H3[SiMe2(NHtBu)](SiMe2Cl)}Cl3] (4) has been proven by NMR spectroscopy. Reaction of 1 with TiCl4 (2 equiv.) in toluene at 110 °C in the presence of excess NEt3 has yielded the chloro‐silyl complex [Ti{η5‐C5H3(SiMe2Cl)(SiMe2‐η1‐NtBu)}Cl2] (7) through the intermediate formation of the amino‐silyl derivative [Ti{η5‐C5H3[SiMe2(NHtBu)] (SiMe2‐η1‐NtBu)}Cl2] (6). Reactions of di‐ansa‐[M{η5‐C5H3(SiMe2‐η1‐NtBu)2}R] and ansa‐[M{η5‐C5H3[SiMe2(NHtBu)] (SiMe2‐η1‐NtBu)}R2] (M = Ti, Zr; R = NMe2, CH2Ph) complexes with NEt3·HCl have afforded the dichloro derivatives [M{η5‐C5H3[SiMe2(NHtBu)] (SiMe2‐η1‐NtBu)}Cl2] [M = Ti (6), Zr (12)], the amine‐coordinated zirconium compound [Zr{η5‐C5H3 [SiMe2(NHtBu)](SiMe2‐η1‐NtBu)} Cl2(NMe2H)] (9) and the chloro‐benzyl titanium complex [Ti{η5‐C5H3[SiMe2(NHtBu)](SiMe2‐η1‐NtBu)}Cl(CH2Ph)] (11). Formation of the mono‐substituted chloroamido zirconium complex [Zr{η5‐C5H3[SiMe2 (NHtBu)](SiMe2‐η1‐NtBu)}Cl(NMe2)] (10) by the reaction of [Zr{η5‐C5H3[SiMe2(NHtBu)] (SiMe2‐η1‐NtBu)}(NMe2)2] with SiClMe3 has been monitored in C6D6 by NMR spectroscopy. All of the new chloro complexes have been characterized by elemental analyses and NMR spectroscopy and the X‐ray crystal structure of [Ti(η5‐C5H3{SiMe2(NHtBu)}2)Cl3] (3) has been studied by diffraction methods. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2004)