bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐Linear Effect of Modifier Composition on Enantioselectivity in Asymmetric Hydrogenation over Platinum Metals
Authors: Huck Wolf‐Rüdiger , Mallat Tamas , Baiker Alfons
Published: January 2003

Prominent non‐linear behavior was observed when mixtures of cinchona alkaloids were applied as chiral modifiers in enantioselective hydrogenations over Pt/Al2O3 and Pd/TiO2. The phenomenon is traced to differences in the strength and geometry of alkaloid adsorption on the metal surface. In ethyl pyruvate hydrogenation under close to ambient conditions the weaker adsorbing quinidine (QD) outperformed the generally preferred modifier cinchonidine (CD) and afforded the highest ee (96–98%) at 1–5 bar. In the partial hydrogenation of 4‐methoxy‐6‐methyl‐2‐pyrone to the dihydro derivative 4 CD gave 73% ee to (S)‐4 and QD provided 72% ee to (R)‐4, and still the alkaloid mixture containing less than 5 mol % CD afforded 15% ee to (S)‐4. This non‐linear behavior may be advantageous in asymmetric synthesis as low purity chiral compounds can be applied as efficient modifiers for Pt or Pd.
Enantioselective Hydrogenation of β‐Keto Esters using Chiral Diphosphine‐Ruthenium Complexes: Optimization for Academic and Industrial Purposes and Synthetic Applications
Authors: Ratovelomanana‐Vidal V. , Girard C. , Touati R. , Tranchier J. P. , Hassine B. Ben , Genêt J. P.
Published: January 2003

Enantioselective hydrogenation using chiral complexes between atropisomeric diphosphines and ruthenium is a powerful tool for producing chiral compounds. Using a simple and straightforward in situ catalyst preparation, the conditions were optimized using molecular hydrogen for both academic and industrial purposes. This led to the best conditions and the lowest catalytic ratio required for the pressure used. Hydrogenation of various β‐keto esters was efficiently performed at atmospheric and higher pressures, leading to the use of very low catalyst‐substrate ratios up to 1/20,000. Asymmetric hydrogenations were used in key‐steps towards the total synthesis of corynomycolic acid, Duloxetine and Fluoxetine.
The NiCl2‐Li‐Arene (cat.) Combination as Reducing System, Part 9: Catalytic Hydrogenation of Organic Compounds using the NiCl2‐Li‐(Naphthalene or Polymer‐Supported Naphthalene) (cat.) Combination
Authors: Alonso Francisco , Candela Pablo , Gómez Cecilia , Yus Miguel
Published: January 2003

The reaction of lithium powder, a catalytic amount of naphthalene or polymer‐supported naphthalene, and anhydrous nickel(II) chloride, in THF at room temperature, generates a finely divided and very reactive nickel(0) which has been efficiently applied to the catalytic hydrogenation of different organic compounds such as alkenes, alkynes, carbonyl compounds, imines, organic halides, aromatic compounds, hydrazines, azoxy compounds, and N‐oxides.
Unusual 1‐Alkyne Dimerization/Hydrogenation Sequences Catalyzed by [Ir(H)2(NCCH3)3(P‐i‐Pr3)]BF4: Evidence for Homogeneous‐Like Mechanism in Imidazolium Salts
Authors: Navarro Janeth , Sági Mária , Sola Eduardo , Lahoz Fernando J. , Dobrinovitch Isabel T. , Kathó Ágnes , Joó Ferenc , Oro Luis A.
Published: January 2003

The reaction of complex [Ir(H)2(NCCH3)3(P‐i‐Pr3)]BF4 (1) with excess of 1‐alkynes such as t‐BuC≡CH and PhC≡CH gave the butadiene compounds Ir[η4‐(R)2C4H4](NCCH3)2(P‐i‐Pr3)}BF4 (R=t‐Bu, 5; R=Ph, 6). Compound 5 was obtained as a single isomer containing a 1,3‐disubstituted butadiene ligand, whereas 6 was formed as a 7:1 mixture of isomers containing 1,3‐ and 1,4‐disubstituted butadienes, respectively. Spectroscopic observations showed alkenyl hydride reaction intermediates, consistent with a double insertion/C‐C coupling sequence. Complexes 5 and 6 were found to react with dihydrogen to give 1 and alkenes resulting from the partial hydrogenation of the butadiene moieties. This dimerization/hydrogenation sequence has been found to be the major reaction of t‐BuC≡CH under conditions of homogeneous hydrogenation whereas that of PhC≡CH produced styrene and ethylbenzene as major products. Similar selectivity was observed for these hydrogenations using organic/ionic liquid biphasic conditions with toluene/BMIM⋅BF4, suggesting reaction mechanisms similar to those operating under homogeneous conditions. This conclusion is also supported by the spectroscopic observation of alkenyl hydride intermediates during the formation of 6 in BMIM⋅BF4 as solvent.
Hydrogenation of Glucose to Sorbitol over Nickel and Ruthenium Catalysts
Authors: Kusserow Burkhard , Schimpf Sabine , Claus Peter
Published: January 2003

Hydrogenation of aqueous glucose solution was performed in batch and continuous reactors using supported nickel and ruthenium catalysts. Preparation methods were precipitation, impregnation, sol‐gel and template syntheses, and SiO2, TiO2, Al2O3 and carbon were used as support materials. A procedure for the one‐step synthesis of templated metal on support catalysts was established. The influence of support material and preparation methods was studied and the results were compared with those of an industrial nickel catalyst. In a detailed study taking more than 1100 h time on stream we investigated the deactivation of the industrial catalyst and a supported ruthenium catalyst, and evaluated the deactivation mechanisms. As yet unpublished side products of the glucose hydrogenation were identified and a scheme of the reaction network was set up.
Synthesis and Applications of HexaPHEMP, a Novel Biaryl Diphosphine Ligand
Authors: Henschke Julian P. , Burk Mark J. , Malan Christophe G. , Herzberg Daniela , Peterson Justine A. , Wildsmith Andrew J. , Cobley Christopher J. , Casy Guy
Published: January 2003

The novel biaryldiphosphine ligand 1 (HexaPHEMP) has been prepared in five steps from commercially available 3,4,5‐trimethylphenol using a concise synthetic route. This approach also allows fine tuning of the ligand's stereoelectronic properties through the variation of the aromatic groups on the ligating phosphorus atoms. In certain asymmetric hydrogenation processes, catalysts containing this ligand were found to have enhanced activity and selectivity over other biaryldiphosphine‐containing catalysts.
Monodentate Phosphoramidites: A Breakthrough in Rhodium‐Catalysed Asymmetric Hydrogenation of Olefins
Authors: van den Berg Michel , Minnaard Adriaan J. , Haak Robert M. , Leeman Michel , Schudde Ebe P. , Meetsma Auke , Feringa Ben L. , de Vries André H. M. , Maljaars C. Elizabeth P. , Willans Charlotte E. , Hyett David , Boogers Jeroen A. F. , Henderickx Hubertus J. W. , de Vries Johannes G.
Published: January 2003

Monodentate phosphoramidites based on BINOL or substituted BINOL are excellent ligands for the rhodium‐catalysed asymmetric hydrogenation of olefins. Very high enantioselectivities were obtained with MonoPhos (7a) the simplest member of this class, a ligand that is prepared in a single step from BINOL and HMPT. Turnover numbers up to 6000 have been obtained in the hydrogenation of dehydroamino acid derivatives. Enantioselectivities in the hydrogenation of dehydroamino acids are solvent dependent; in non‐protic solvents they range from 95–99%. Itaconic acid and its dimethyl ester could be hydrogenated with 96 and 94% e.e., respectively. Hydrogenation of aromatic enamides gave the corresponding acylated amines in 86–94% e.e. Several analogous phosphoramidite ligands have been prepared. Surprisingly, bidentate ligands gave poorer results, both in terms of rate as well as enantioselectivity. Taddol‐based phosphoramidites led to poor e.e. and slow rates. Methyl substituents at the 3,3′‐position of BINOL led to a sharply reduced rate and a somewhat lower enantioselectivity. Bromo substituents at the 6,6′‐position led to a slightly reduced rate but little effect was seen on enantioselectivity. Use of octahydro‐MonoPhos (11) gave results that were very similar to those obtained with 7a. The rate of the reaction is dependent on the hydrogen pressure, however, the enantioselectivity is not affected. The rate of the dehydroamino acid hydrogenation also increases if the ligand to rhodium ratio is reduced from 2.2 to 1.5 or even to 1.0; yet, there is no deleterious effect on the enantioselectivity. Catalytic activity ceases with L/Rh=3 when dehydroamino acid derivatives were used as substrate. The reaction shows a positive non‐linear effect, which confirms the presence of Rh‐complexes with more than one ligand. Following the hydrogenation of methyl 2‐acetamidocinnnamate with Rh(nbd)2BF4/7a by electrospray mass spectrometry showed the presence of several rhodium species. Notable are the presence of [Rh(7a)]3+ and [Rh(7a)]4+. There is at present insufficient evidence to conclude if the active catalytic species carries one or two ligands. In view of the low cost of MonoPhos this invention might well lead to a broader application of asymmetric olefin hydrogenation for the production of enantiopure amino acids and amines.
Iridium‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Hydrogenation of Olefins
Authors: Pfaltz Andreas , Blankenstein Jörg , Hilgraf Robert , Hörmann Esther , McIntyre Steven , Menges Frederik , Schönleber Marc , Smidt Sebastian P. , Wüstenberg Bettina , Zimmermann Nicole
Published: January 2003

Cationic iridium complexes with chiral P,N‐ligands and tetrakis[3,5‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borate (BArF) as the counterion are efficient homogeneous catalysts for the enantioselective hydrogenation of olefins. The complexes are readily prepared, air‐stable, and easy to handle. In contrast to chiral rhodium‐ and ruthenium‐phosphine catalysts, they do not require the presence of a polar coordinating group near the CC bond. In the hydrogenation of unfunctionalized arylolefins, high enantioselectivities of >95% ee with turnover numbers of up to 5000 and turnover frequencies of >5000 h−1 have been achieved.
Asymmetric Hydrogenations (Nobel Lecture 2001)
Authors: Knowles William S.
Published: January 2003

The start of the development of catalysts for asymmetric hydrogenation was the concept of replacing the triphenylphosphane ligand of the Wilkinson catalyst with a chiral ligand. With the new catalysts, it should be possible to hydrogenate prochiral olefins. Knowles and his co‐workers were convinced that the phosphorus atom played a central role in this selectivity, as only chiral phosphorus ligands such as (R,R)‐DIPAMP, whose stereogenic center lies directly on the phosphorus atom, lead to high enantiomeric excesses when used as catalysts in asymmetric hydrogenation reactions. This hypothesis was disproven by the development of ligands with chiral carbon backbones. Although the exact mechanism of action of the phosphane ligands is not incontrovertibly determined to this day, they provide a simple entry to a large number of chiral compounds.
Enantioselective Hydrogenation Using Heterogeneous Modified Catalysts: An Update
Authors: Studer Martin , Blaser Hans‐Ulrich , Exner Christian
Published: January 2003

The state of the art for the enantioselective hydrogenation applying chirally modified heterogeneous catalysts is reviewed with emphasis on new developments between 1997 and 2002. Discussed are various combinations of metal–modifier–substrate which give enantioselectivities useful for synthetic applications. The three most important asymmetric catalysts types are nickel catalysts modified with tartaric acid, useful for β‐functionalized ketones with ees up to 98.6%, platinum catalysts modified with cinchona alkaloids and related modifiers, successful for α‐functionalized ketones with ees up to 98% and palladium catalysts modified with cinchona alkaloids which achieve ees up to 94% for selected activated CC bonds. Mechanistic investigations comprising surface science and spectroscopic studies often combined with computational modeling as well as kinetic studies are summarized and the various mechanistic models are discussed.
Ruthenium(II)‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of Carbonyl Compounds with 2‐Propanol and Ephedrine‐Type Ligands
Authors: Everaere Kathelyne , Mortreux André , Carpentier Jean‐François
Published: January 2003

This account describes the development and application of Noyori's type catalysts based on ruthenium‐arene complexes and simple chiral β‐amino alcohols derived from ephedrine, for the asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of 2‐propanol to carbonyl substrates. The influence of key parameters of the catalyst system has been studied systematically, resulting in particular in the design of the novel ligand (4‐biphenylmethyl)norephedrine. Thanks to the latter, the catalytic precursors and true active species could be isolated for the first time, enabling a complete structural description of the catalytic cycle and of probable deactivation pathways. Highly effective applications of those catalysts systems, i.e., the asymmetric reductions of simple aryl ketones and aryl β‐keto esters, the synthesis of chiral phthalides and syn‐β,δ‐dihydroxy esters, are described.
Recent Developments in Catalytic Asymmetric Hydrogenation Employing P‐Chirogenic Diphosphine Ligands
Authors: Crépy Karen V. L. , Imamoto Tsuneo
Published: January 2003

Rhodium‐ and ruthenium‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenations reactions employing C2‐symmetric chiral diphosphine ligands have a long history, and exceedingly high enantioselectivities have been reported. On the other hand, metal complexes containing P‐chirogenic, electron‐rich diphosphine ligands such as 1,2‐bis(alkylmethylphosphino)ethane (BisP*) and bis(alkylmethylphosphino)methane (MiniPHOS) have been tested only recently, and proved greatly successful. These results prompted intensive research amongst organic chemists, and the scope and limitations of the use of ligands bearing the chiral center at phosphorus atoms is presented in this review. The most recent data have been collected and summarized. In terms of ligand design, it is necessary to address an important question: “which properties are responsible for very high enantioselectivity in hydrogenation reactions?”. To this extent, a full discussion of new aspects on the mechanism, in particular the demonstration of a dihydride mechanism for enantioselective hydrogenation as opposed to the unsaturated mechanism widely accepted so far, also constitutes an important part of this review.
Cape Asbestos, Barking, health and environment: 1928–1946
Authors: Greenberg Morris
Published: January 2003

Background

The mining of chrysotile began in the province of Quebec in the late 1870s. Twenty years later, while annual exports were still measured in hundreds of tonnes, serious and lethal effects were being reported in England and shortly after in France. In 1913, after a number of years of operating in South Africa, Cape Asbestos Company established a factory in Britain in Barking, Essex. Some 15 years later, in 1929, the local Medical Officer of Health was seeing their asbestotic workers at his Chest Clinic, the local Chest Hospital was investigating them and publishing their findings, and the Coroner began what was to be a long series of inquests.

Methods

Documents from the Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, The Royal School of Mines, Central Library of Imperial College, The Porton and Barking Archives, and documents obtained by legal discovery were utilized in preparing this historical perspective.

Results

Despite complaints from the local authority, Parliament was assured that there was no special incidence of disease at Cape, Barking, and that its exhaust ventilation was quite up to the general standard and constantly being improved. Reports on the factory environment and information on the health of Cape's workforce that are available for the years 1928–1934, provide a less sanguine view of the situation, as was confirmed by subsequent health reports on its workforce.

Conclusions

The case of asbestos is considered as a paradigm for the economic considerations that are considered to justify the perpetuation of unsafe and unhealthy occupations, decisions with which medical opinion can be found to concur. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 109–119, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association between occupational exposure to power frequency electromagnetic fields and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A review
Authors: Li Chung‐Yi , Sung Fung‐Chang
Published: January 2003

Background

For the past two decades, there has been concern over electromagnetic exposure and human health. While most research has focused on cancer and reproductive outcomes, there is interest in the relationship between electromagnetic fields (EMF) and neurodegenerative diseases.

Methods

We review epidemiological findings and evidence regarding the association between occupational exposure to power frequency EMFs and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Medline was searched for citations related to occupational hazards and ALS, literature reviews and epidemiological evaluations.

Results

Nine out of the ten epidemiological studies that have been conducted on the risk of ALS in relation to occupational exposure to EMF show moderate to strong relative risk estimates that supported a link between them. Although data from these studies was consistent, the causal inference to a link between EMF exposure and ALS is restricted mainly due to the lack of direct information on EMF exposure and incomplete consideration of the other potential risk factors for ALS at workplaces. For instance, electric shock, in particular, is more common in electrical occupations than in any other occupations.

Conclusions

This review concludes that further studies should consider investigating the separate effect of EMF exposure and electrical shocks to make more specific interpretations. On‐site measurements of EMF should be conducted to include information on EMF exposure from residences as well as workplaces to improve exposure assessment. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 212–220, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Influence of the delta‐aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) polymorphism on biomarkers of lead exposure in Turkish storage battery manufacturing workers
Authors: Süzen H. Sinan , Duydu Yalçın , Aydın Ahmet , Işımer Aşkın , Vural Nevin
Published: January 2003

Background

The relationship between delta‐aminolevulinic acid dehydratase polymorphism (ALAD) and biomarkers of exposure was investigated in Turkish lead workers in this study.

Methods

Seventy two male lead battery manufacturing workers were selected for the study. Blood lead (BPb) and urinary lead (UPb) concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. Erythrocyte ALAD activity and urinary 5‐aminolevulinic acid (UALA) were measured spectrophotometrically. The polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) technique was used to determine the genotype of the ALAD gene.

Results

In total, 51 workers (70.8%) had the ALAD 1‐1 genotype, whereas 21 workers (29.2%) had the ALAD 1‐2 genotype. No significant relationships were found between the two genotypes and BPb, UPb, and ALAD activity. ALAD1 homozygotes showed significantly higher levels of UALA in comparison with those ALAD2 carriers.

Conclusions

ALAD 1‐1 individuals might be an increased risk compared to ALAD2 carriers to disturbance in heme biosynthetic pathway in high lead exposure. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 165–171, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lifetime principal occupation and risk of Alzheimer's disease in the Kungsholmen project
Authors: Qiu Chengxuan , Karp Anita , von Strauss Eva , Winblad Bengt , Fratiglioni Laura , Bellander Tom
Published: January 2003

Background

Some studies suggest that manual work is associated with dementia. This study is aimed at identifying the specific occupational categories that may be related to dementia.

Methods

A cohort of 913 non‐demented subjects aged 75 + years was longitudinally examined twice over 6 years to detect incident dementia using the DSM‐III‐R diagnostic criteria. The lifetime longest occupations of all subjects were divided into different categories according to the occupation‐based classification system. Data were analyzed with Cox models.

Results

During the follow‐up period, 260 subjects were diagnosed with dementia (197 with Alzheimer's disease). Manual work was associated with an increased risk of dementia, and the association was dependent on educational level. Compared with non‐manual work, manual work involving goods production had a multi‐adjusted relative risk (95% CI) of 1.6 (1.0–2.5, P = 0.046) for Alzheimer's disease and 1.4 (0.9–2.1) for dementia.

Conclusions

An association between goods production, manual work and Alzheimer's disease found in this study suggests that factors in the mid‐twentieth century goods production environment may be involved in the development of Alzheimer's disease. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 204–211, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
National Health Interview Survey mortality among US farmers and pesticide applicators
Authors: Fleming Lora E. , Gómez‐Marín Orlando , Zheng Diane , Ma Fangchao , Lee David
Published: January 2003

Background

The mortality experience of pesticide‐exposed workers across the US has not been thoroughly studied.

Methods

Cox regression mortality analyses adjusted for the complex sample survey design were performed on mortality‐linked 1986–1994 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data.

Results

Nine thousand four hundred seventy‐one farmers and pesticide applicators with 571 deaths were compared to 438,228 other US workers with 11,992 deaths. Age‐adjusted risk of accidental death, as well as cancers of the nervous and lymphatic/hematopoietic systems, was significantly elevated in male and female pesticide‐exposed workers; breast, prostate, and testicular cancer mortality risks were not elevated.

Conclusions

Compared to all other workers, farmers and pesticide applicators were at greater risk of accidental mortality. These pesticide‐exposed workers were not at an increased risk of cancers possibly associated with exposure to estrogen analogue compounds, but were at an increased risk of hematopoietic and nervous system cancers. NHIS mortality follow‐up represents an important occupational health surveillance instrument. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 227–233, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitative analysis of asbestos burden in women with mesothelioma
Authors: Dodson Ronald F. , O'Sullivan Michael , Brooks Dwaina R. , Hammar Samuel P.
Published: January 2003

Background

Lung tissue from 15 women who died from mesothelioma was evaluated for tissue burden of ferruginous bodies and uncoated asbestos fibers. The group contained individuals who had occupational exposure to asbestos and others had family members whose work history included vocations where contact with asbestos containing materials occurred.

Methods

Tissue samples from tumor free lung were digested and filtered and then investigated for ferruginous bodies by light microscopy and asbestos and non‐asbestos fibers by analytical transmission electron microscopy (ATEM). Size and type of fibers were also analyzed.

Results

Asbestos bodies were found in 13 of the 15 samples and asbestos fibers were found in all cases. The most commonly found uncoated asbestos fiber in these individuals was amosite whereas tremolite was the second most commonly found form. The asbestos fiber burden in these females was often of mixed types.

Conclusions

The asbestos body and fiber burden in these cases show variation in tissue burden. Some cases in this study had appreciable burden, which was attributed to secondhand exposure from occupationally exposed family members. Mesothelioma can occur also in individuals with comparatively low tissue burdens of asbestos. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 188–195, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stressful psychosocial work environment increases risk for back pain among retail material handlers
Authors: Johnston Janet M. , Landsittel Douglas P. , Nelson Nancy A. , Gardner Lytt I. , Wassell James T.
Published: January 2003

Background

Back pain is a major source of lost work time. Occupational physical activity only accounts for a fraction of low back pain; therefore, there is growing interest in investigating other possible causes of back pain including the psychosocial work environment.

Methods

Material handlers (N = 6,311) in 160 newly opened stores were interviewed at study entry and approximately 6 months later. Factor analysis was used to reduce the 37 psychosocial questionnaire items to seven distinct factors.

Results

After adjusting for history of back problems and work‐related lifting, risk of back pain was moderately increased among employees who reported high job intensity demands (odds ratio (OR) = 1.8), job dissatisfaction (OR = 1.7), and high job scheduling demands (OR = 1.6).

Conclusions

Modification of the psychosocial work environment for material handlers in large retail stores may help reduce back pain among employees. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 179–187, 2003. Published 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The Drake Health Registry Study: Findings from fifteen years of continuous bladder cancer screening
Authors: Marsh Gary M. , Cassidy Laura D.
Published: January 2003

Background

The Drake Health Registry Study (DHRS) is an ongoing bladder cancer screening program initiated in 1986 due to workers' probable past exposure to the bladder carcinogen, beta‐naphthylamine (BNA).

Methods

At periodic screening visits, a health survey is administered and three screening tests are applied to a urine sample, urinalysis (UA), papanicolaou (PAP), and quantitative fluorescence image analysis (QFIA). Positive screens are eligible for a free bladder cystoscopy with random biopsies.

Results

Forty of 51 persons eligible for diagnostic evaluation underwent cystoscopy. One person was diagnosed with carcinoma in situ, two with transitional cell papilloma, 14 with dysplasia, two of which developed transitional cell carcinoma; 26 had bladder abnormalities such as chronic inflammation, chronic cystitis, atypical changes, atypia, hyperplasia, or papillary clusters.

Conclusions

The DHRS continues to identify early stage bladder cancer and other abnormalities among workers exposed to BNA before 1981 and generates useful clinical, psycho‐social, and epidemiologic data. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 142–148, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Health care utilization of carpenters with substance abuse‐related diagnoses
Authors: Lipscomb Hester J. , Dement John M. , Li Leiming
Published: January 2003

Background

Persons in the construction trades in the US have high rates of alcohol and substance abuse. We had the unique opportunity to evaluate health care utilization through private insurance and workers' compensation for a group of carpenters at high risk of injury and substance abuse.

Methods

We identified a cohort of union carpenters. Their claims for medical care through union insurance and workers' compensation, and appropriate measures of time at risk were documented. Using methods of indirect standardization, we compared utilization and costs between carpenters with and without alcohol and substance‐abuse related diagnoses (ASRD).

Results

Through private insurance, those with ASRD had 10% higher outpatient utilization and 2.1 times higher rates of hospitalizations for injury care; 2.6 times higher rates of outpatient care; and 2.9 times higher inpatient admissions for non‐injury care. Individuals with ASRD had only modestly increased rates (10%) of outpatient utilization through workers' compensation.

Conclusions

These findings support the need for alcohol and drug abuse prevention and treatment services for this workforce. Operationalizing this among highly mobile workforces, such as the construction trades, is a challenge. While not intending to minimize the problems of alcohol or substance abuse on the job among carpenters, the focus of prevention should not necessarily be in the workplace. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 120–131, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Occupation and smoking as risk factors for lung cancer: A population‐based case‐control study
Authors: Ruano‐Ravina Alberto , Figueiras Adolfo , Barreiro‐Carracedo María Amparo , Barros‐Dios Juan
Published: January 2003

Background

Lung cancer is associated with occupation, but not much is known about the influence exerted on risk by length of exposure and the joint effect of occupational exposure and tobacco on risk of lung cancer.

Methods

Through a population‐based case‐control study, we defined risk professions as those that have been associated previously with higher risk of lung cancer.

Results

The relative risk seems to increase linearly and significantly with the number of years spent in risk occupations, rising significantly by 28% for every 10 years in a risk profession. Should such occupations be combined with exposure to a smoking habit, then in the case of heavy smokers, a working career spanning 20 years or more in risk occupations would mean tripling the possibility of developing lung cancer from occupation.

Conclusions

The high risks observed indicate a public health problem and indicate that joint exposure to risk professions and tobacco ought to be avoided. We must stress from these results the need for effective education for all workers. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 149–155, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Symptoms and lung function in health care personnel exposed to glutaraldehyde
Authors: Waters Andrew , Beach Jeremy , Abramson Michael
Published: January 2003

Background

Glutaraldehyde is widely used as a disinfectant for endoscopic equipment. The aim of this study was to investigate work practices and glutaraldehyde exposure in relation to symptoms and lung function.

Methods

A questionnaire was administered to 76 nurses. Exposed nurses (n = 38) also completed lung function tests and visual analogue scales before and after a work session in which glutaraldehyde exposure occurred. Disinfection activities were timed and counted, personal exposures established, and control measures documented.

Results

Exposure values above the exposure limit (0.10 ppm) were found for all exposure control methods except for the enclosed washing machine. Skin symptoms were 3.6 times more likely to be reported by exposed workers. None of the other symptoms were significantly associated with glutaraldehyde exposure. There were significant cross‐shift reductions in FVC and FEV1 in the exposed group. No evidence of a dose–response relationship for symptoms or lung function was found.

Conclusions

Further exposure controls for both glutaraldehyde and gloves are required to improve skin care in glutaraldehyde exposed nurses. Exposure monitoring methods also need review. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 196–203, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An investigation of noise levels in Alberta sawmills
Authors: Koehncke Niels , Taylor Maurice , Taylor Chris , Harman Lloyd , Hessel Patrick A. , Beaulne Paul , Guidotti Tee
Published: January 2003

Background

Noise exposure in the sawmill industry is an area of concern. This study documents the level of noise exposure in nine sawmills in the province of Alberta, Canada.

Methods

Personal noise monitoring data were collected in nine Alberta sawmills, in winter and in summer (n = 213). Exposures were considered in light of an estimated “real world” noise reduction rating (NRR) calculation assuming use of conventional hearing protection. Limited comparisons were made with spot area monitoring data.

Results

Only 10% of the personal monitoring measurements were below the Alberta 8‐hr exposure limit of 85 dBA. Twenty‐seven percent of the personal monitoring measurements were 95 dBA or higher. Worker enclosures played a large role in reducing noise exposure. There were no significant differences between seasons in noise category distributions (P = 0.61). The planermen and planer infeed operators had the highest percentage of personal monitoring measurements 95 dBA or higher (62% and 82%, respectively).

Conclusions

Based on a conservative formula, a risk of excess noise exposure could exist even when wearing required hearing protection due to very high noise levels found in planing operations in sawmills. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 156–164, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prevalence of hepatitis A virus infection among sewage workers in Georgia
Authors: Venczel Linda , Brown Stuart , Frumkin Howard , Simmonds‐Diaz Jorge , Deitchman Scott , Bell Beth P.
Published: January 2003

Background

Wastewater (WW) workers could have opportunity for direct contact with raw sewage, which might contain hepatitis A virus (HAV).

Methods

A serologic survey of WW workers and a comparison population of roads and drainage workers (RD). Factors potentially associated with anti‐HAV positivity were evaluated in univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Among the 365 WW workers, overall anti‐HAV prevalence was 38%, similar to that (35%) of the 166 RD workers (P = 0.5). Prevalence varied by wastewater job type from 45% among the 164 field crew workers to 32% among the 201 treatment plant workers. In multivariate modeling, factors associated with anti‐HAV positivity included age ≥ 40 years (odds ratio [OR] = 2.4; 95% CI = 1.6–3.7), black compared to other races (OR = 2.4; 95% CI = 1.5–3.8), birth outside the United States (OR = 7.5; 95% CI = 3.0–18.6), a high school education or less (OR 2.1; 95% CI = 1.4–3.2) and work on the field crew compared to RD work (OR 1.6; 95% CI = 1.1–2.4).

Conclusions

These results are consistent with no or a small increased risk of hepatitis A among WW workers, and do not provide a clear mandate for hepatitis A vaccination of these workers. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 172–178, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Occupational issues in episodic care populations
Authors: Harber Philip , Bublik Michael , Steimberg Clara , Wallace Jeanne , Merz Brenda
Published: January 2003

Background

Much care for non‐emergency problems is provided at “episodic care” settings (e.g., urgent care and emergency room).

Methods

Ninety‐four subjects, without known occupational disease, who were seeking care for a chronic or sub‐acute problem in an episodic care location, were interviewed to assess the frequency and types of occupational health concerns. They were asked whether work probably “caused” or “made worse” their illness and whether their illness “made work difficult.”

Results

Categorized hierarchically, 20% reported causation, 15% worsening, and 15% interference of illness with work. (Each was categorized in one category only). Only 50% reported absence of a workplace‐health interaction. One‐third reported that workplace changes could improve their functional status. Nevertheless, workplace factors were discussed only 21% of the time in physician‐patient encounters.

Conclusions

This study suggests that occupational health issues are frequent in episodic care settings and that the definition of occupational health issues should be broadened to include “made worse” and “illness makes work difficult” as well as the traditional workplace causation definition. Further, episodic care settings present unique opportunities for prevention. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 221–226, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Excess of symptoms among radiographers
Authors: Dimich‐Ward Helen , Wymer Michelle , Kennedy Susan , Teschke Kay , Rousseau Roxanne , Chan‐Yeung Moira
Published: January 2003

Background

The prevalence and occupational determinants of miscellaneous symptoms referred to as “Darkroom disease” was compared between radiographers and physiotherapists working in British Columbia, Canada.

Methods

The participation rate for the mailout questionnaire survey was 66.1%. A small subset underwent spirometry and methacholine challenge testing.

Results

Radiographers had a higher prevalence of most symptoms, with an extreme odds ratio of 11.4 for chemical/metallic taste. The percentage of radiographers with non‐specific bronchial hyperresponsiveness (NSBHR) was 3 times higher than that of physiotherapists, although the comparison was not statistically significant. Reporting inadequate ventilation, frequently detecting the odor of X‐ray processing chemicals and cleaning up spills within the past 12 months were highly associated with most of the symptoms.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that differences in the prevalence of symptoms represent a complex process, both in exposure and response to the many constituents found in radiographic processing chemicals. Objective testing of health outcomes and more refined exposure measurements are recommended to further investigate occupational health problems of radiographers. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43: 132–141, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A new autosomal recessive congenital contractural syndrome in an Israeli Bedouin kindred
Authors: Landau Daniella , Mishori‐Dery Anat , Hershkovitz Reli , Narkis Ginat , Elbedour Khalil , Carmi Rivka
Published: January 2003

We describe 23 cases with a syndrome of congenital contractures belonging to a large, inbred Israeli‐Bedouin kindred. The phenotype described is similar to the Finnish type lethal congenital contracture syndrome yet differs in the following ways: by some additional craniofacial/ocular findings, by the lack of hydrops, multiple pterygia, and fractures, and by the normal duration of pregnancy. The major unique and previously undescribed clinical feature in our patients is a markedly distended urinary bladder as well as other urinary abnormalities. The vast majority of the cases died shortly after birth. Sonographic prenatal diagnosis was possible as early as 15 weeks gestation by demonstrating fetal akinesia, limb contractures, hydramnios, and distended urinary bladder. Linkage to 5q and 9q34 loci has been excluded. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Widespread occurrence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA from 18th–19th century Hungarians
Authors: Fletcher Helen A. , Donoghue Helen D. , Holton John , Pap Ildikó , Spigelman Mark
Published: January 2003

A large number (265) of burials from 1731–1838 were discovered in sealed crypts of the Dominican Church, Vác, Hungary in 1994. Many bodies were naturally mummified, so that both soft tissues and bones were available. Contemporary archives enabled the determination of age at death, and the identification of family groups. In some cases, symptoms before death were described and, occasionally, occupation. Initial radiological examination of a small number of individuals had indicated calcified lung lesions and demonstrable acid‐fast bacteria suggestive of tuberculosis infection. Tuberculosis was endemic in 18th–19th century Europe, so human remains should contain detectable Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTB) DNA, enabling comparisons with modern isolates. Therefore, a comprehensive examination of 168 individuals for the presence of MTB DNA was undertaken. Specific DNA amplification methods for MTB showed that 55% of individuals were positive and that the incidence varied according to age at death and sampling site in the body. Radiographs were obtained from 27 individuals and revealed an association between gross pathology and the presence of MTB DNA. There was an inverse relationship between PCR positivity and MTB target sequence size. In some cases, the preservation of MTB DNA was excellent, and several target gene sequences could be detected from the same sample. This information, combined with MTB DNA sequencing data and molecular typing techniques, will enable us to study the past epidemiology of TB infection, and extends the timeframe for studying changes in molecular fingerprints. Am J Phys Anthropol 120:144–152, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Brief communication: Coexistence of two distinct patterns in the surname structure of Sicily
Authors: Pavesi Angelo , Pizzetti Paola , Siri Enzo , Lucchetti Enzo , Conterio Franco
Published: January 2003

The extent of variation in the migratory movements that occurred in Sicily was evaluated using surname data taken from the telephone directories of the 390 communes of the island. The surname distribution of each commune was linearized by a log‐log transformation, and a significant fit to a linear regression model was found in almost all cases. Interestingly, the slope of the regression line appeared to be a sensitive indicator of the different level of isolation associated with each Sicilian commune. By this approach, two distinct groups of communes, showing a higher or lower degree of isolation, were obtained, and two independent analyses of the surname structure of Sicily were carried out. A first multidimensional scaling analysis, based on the more isolated communes, yielded evidence for a more ancient pattern, characterized by a geographical gradient along the east‐west axis. The same analysis, addressed to the less isolated communes, instead highlighted a wide network of interactions between geographically distant zones of the island. The fitting of the surname distribution to the log‐log model allowed for the detection of a narrow subset of 35 Sicilian communes, whose significantly higher degree of isolation was statistically proved by the parallelism test. We believe that a genetic analysis focused on such specific zones of the island could reveal ancient patterns of differentiation, thus helping to answer the controversial question of the genetic history of Sicily. Am J Phys Anthropol 120:195–199, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparative functional analysis of skull morphology of tree‐gouging primates
Authors: Vinyard Christopher J. , Wall Christine E. , Williams Susan H. , Hylander William L.
Published: January 2003

Many primates habitually feed on tree exudates such as gums and saps. Among these exudate feeders,Cebuella pygmaea,Callithrixspp.,Phaner furcifer, and most likelyEuoticus elegantuluselicit exudate flow by biting into trees with their anterior dentition. We define this behavior as gouging. Beyond the recent publication by Dumont ([1997] Am J Phys Anthropol102:187–202), there have been few attempts to address whether any aspect of skull form in gouging primates relates to this specialized feeding behavior. However, many researchers have proposed that tree gouging results in larger bite force, larger internal skull loads, and larger jaw gapes in comparison to other chewing and biting behaviors. If true, then we might expect primate gougers to exhibit skull modifications that provide increased abilities to produce bite forces at the incisors, withstand loads in the skull, and/or generate large gapes for gouging.

We develop 13 morphological predictions based on the expectation that gouging involves relatively large jaw forces and/or jaw gapes. We compare skull shapes forP. furciferto five cheirogaleid taxa,E. elegantulusto six galagid species, andC. jacchusto two tamarin species, so as to assess whether gouging primates exhibit these predicted morphological shapes. Our results show little morphological evidence for increased force‐production or load‐resistance abilities in the skulls of these gouging primates. Conversely, these gougers tend to have skull shapes that are advantageous for creating large gapes. For example, all three gouging species have significantly lower condylar heights relative to the toothrow at a given mandibular length in comparison with closely related, nongouging taxa. Lowering the height of the condyle relative to the mandibular toothrow should reduce the stretching of the masseters and medial pterygoids during jaw opening, as well as position the mandibular incisors more anteriorly at wide jaw gapes. In other words, the lower incisors will follow a more vertical trajectory during both jaw opening and closing.

We predict, based on these findings, that tree‐gouging primates do not generate unusually large forces, but that they do use relatively large gapes during gouging. Of course, in vivo data on jaw forces and jaw gapes are required to reliably assess skull functions during gouging. Am J Phys Anthropol 120:153–170, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Two probable cases of treponemal disease of Medieval date from England
Authors: Mays Simon , Crane‐Kramer Gillian , Bayliss Alex
Published: January 2003

Two British Medieval skeletons are described. Paleopathological examination suggests that treponemal disease was present in each case. Radiocarbon dating indicates that one is firmly pre‐Columbian, and the other of likely pre‐Columbian date. The implications for our understanding of the history and geographic spread of the treponemal diseases, particularly venereal syphilis, are discussed. Am J Phys Anthropol 120:133–143, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dietary constraints on encephalization in primates
Authors: Fish Jennifer L. , Lockwood Charles A.
Published: January 2003

Encephalization, and its relationship to potential selective forces, have been a focus of many studies of primate adaptation. It has been argued that gut size may constrain brain mass because these two types of “expensive tissue” (among others) compete in their metabolic requirements (Aiello and Wheeler [1995] Curr. Anthropol.36:199–221). Following from the inverse correlation of gut size with diet quality, the expensive tissue hypothesis predicts that differences in diet quality are positively correlated with differences in brain mass, once the correlation of each variable with body mass is taken into account. We tested this prediction using both nonphylogenetic and phylogenetic methods. The results of both methods are consistent with predictions made by the expensive tissue hypothesis. We also discuss several examples of independent contrasts that are consistent with the hypothesis (e.g., Colobinae vs. Cercopithecinae), as well as some that are not (e.g.,Tarsiusvs. anthropoidea). Overall, the results indicate that improved diet quality, by allowing reduction in relative gut mass, is one mechanism involved in increased encephalization. Am J Phys Anthropol 120:171–181, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Native American mtDNA prehistory in the American Southwest
Authors: Malhi Ripan S. , Mortensen Holly M. , Eshleman Jason A. , Kemp Brian M. , Lorenz Joseph G. , Kaestle Frederika A. , Johnson John R. , Gorodezky Clara , Smith David Glenn
Published: January 2003

This study examines the mtDNA diversity of the proposed descendants of the multiethnic Hohokam and Anasazi cultural traditions, as well as Uto‐Aztecan and Southern‐Athapaskan groups, to investigate hypothesized migrations associated with the Southwest region. The mtDNA haplogroups of 117 Native Americans from southwestern North America were determined. The hypervariable segment I (HVSI) portion of the control region of 53 of these individuals was sequenced, and the within‐haplogroup diversity of 18 Native American populations from North, Central, and South America was analyzed. Within North America, populations in the West contain higher amounts of diversity than in other regions, probably due to a population expansion and high levels of gene flow among subpopulations in this region throughout prehistory. The distribution of haplogroups in the Southwest is structured more by archaeological tradition than by language. Yumans and Pimans exhibit substantially greater genetic diversity than the Jemez and Zuni, probably due to admixture and genetic isolation, respectively. We find no evidence of a movement of mtDNA lineages northward into the Southwest from Central Mexico, which, in combination with evidence from nuclear markers, suggests that the spread of Uto‐Aztecan was facilitated by predominantly male migration. Southern Athapaskans probably experienced a bottleneck followed by extensive admixture during the migration to their current homeland in the Southwest. Am J Phys Anthropol 120:108–124, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pathological alterations in the archaic Homo sapiens cranium from Eliye Springs, Kenya
Authors: Bräuer Günter , Groden Christoph , Delling Günter , Kupczik Kornelius , Mbua Emma , Schultz Michael
Published: January 2003

This paper reports on the results of a first computerized tomography (CT)‐based study of the Middle Pleistocene matrix‐filled skull KNM‐ES 11693 from Eliye Springs at Lake Turkana. Ectocranially, the hominid cranium exhibits a remarkable enlargement of the vault symmetrical to the sagittal suture and a porotic surface covering most of the vault. CT analysis further revealed a strong thickening of the cranial vault as well as other relevant aspects. Differential diagnosis suggests that the changes of the Eliye Springs cranium were probably caused by chronic anemia in the childhood or youth of this individual. Am J Phys Anthropol 120:200–204, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.