bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serotonin Syndrome Induced by Fluvoxamine and Oxycodone
Authors: Karunatilake Harindra , Buckley Nicholas A
Published: December 2005

Objective:

To report a case of severe serotonergic symptoms following the addition of oxycodone to fluvoxamine.

Case Summary:

A 70-year-old woman developed severe serotonergic features, including confusion, nausea, fever, clonus, hyperreflexia, hypertonia, shivering, and tachycardia, following the addition of oxycodone 40 mg twice daily to fluvoxamine 200 mg/day, easily fulfilling diagnostic criteria for serotonin syndrome. Discontinuation of the offending drugs resulted in resolution of her symptoms over 48 hours, and no other cause of the syndrome was identified. Use of the Naranjo probability scale indicated a probable relationship between the serotonergic symptoms and the addition of oxycodone to fluvoxamine therapy.

Discussion:

Serotonin syndrome is a serious adverse reaction usually due to interactions with serotonergic drugs. There have been only 3 previous reports involving oxycodone. Most previous reports of serotonin syndrome involving analgesics have been associated with meperidine, dextromethorphan, and tramadol. Unlike these synthetic opioids, however, oxycodone does not inhibit the reuptake of serotonin. In addition, there are a number of other possible pharmacologic mechanisms for the interaction we observed.

Conclusions:

Monitoring for serotonergic adverse events should be done when oxycodone is given to patients receiving serotonin-reuptake inhibitors.
Quality Assessment of Dyslipidemia in Managed Care: Current Best Evidence Should Be Used to Benchmark Quality
Authors: Nair Kavita V , Saseen Joseph J
Published: December 2005

Quality measurements in managed care allow purchasers of health care to distinguish between health plans. Existing measures (Health Plan Employer Data and Information Set goals) for treatment of dyslipidemia provide a limited snapshot about quality of care for members within commercial health plans. Newer evidence (ie, the Heart Protection Study) and consensus guidelines (the National Cholesterol Education Program) expand the definition of high-risk populations and emphasize pharmacotherapy in managing dyslipidemia. We believe that newer evidence and standards provide health plans with the best opportunity to accurately assess the quality of dyslipidemia care for their populations. We propose a broad framework that provides health plans with guidance on developing a new quality measure for dyslipidemia that focuses on pharmacotherapy.
Neurotoxicity Related to Valganciclovir in a Child With Impaired Renal Function: Usefulness of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
Authors: Peyrière Hélène , Jeziorsky Eric , Jalabert Anne , Cociglio Marylène , Benketira Abdelkader , Blayac Jean-Pierre , Hansel Sylvie , Margueritte Geneviève , Hillaire-Buys Dominique
Published: December 2005

Objective:

To report a case of neurotoxicity related to antiviral drugs, discuss the involvement of concomitant medications, and document the pharmacokinetics of ganciclovir (administered as valganciclovir) in a child with impaired renal function.

Case Summary:

A 13-year-old boy with acute lymphoblastic leukemia was treated for cytomegalovirus retinitis with valganciclovir 450 mg every 2 days in the course of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Concomitant medication included omeprazole, furosemide, and acetaminophen. During treatment, when creatinine clearance decreased to 20 mL/min, the child presented with acute neurotoxicity, consisting of mental confusion and hallucinations, which resolved when all medications were stopped. Valganciclovir therapeutic monitoring showed high ganciclovir concentrations in the plasma (3.85 μg/mL) and cerebrospinal fluid (2.6 μg/mL) 48 hours after the last valganciclovir dose. After recovery of neurologic function, valganciclovir was resumed at a lower dosage (225 mg twice a week) with therapeutic drug monitoring and was well tolerated. However, the cytomegalovirus infection was not resolved. The leukemia relapsed, and the patient had terminal renal failure and died. The Naranjo probability scale indicated a probable relationship between valganciclovir and neurotoxicity.

Discussion:

Drugs taken by this child (acyclovir, valganciclovir, omeprazole) have been reported to induce neurotoxicity, with the pharmacokinetics of the first 2 being altered by renal failure. At the time when acyclovir was first administered, symptoms of neurotoxicity were already apparent. Moreover, plasma concentrations of ganciclovir were very high during the course of the neurotoxicity. Thus, the adverse effects seemed related to an overdosage of valganciclovir and were worsened by the addition of acyclovir.

Conclusions:

This case is informative because few clinical and pharmacokinetic data are available concerning the use of valganciclovir in children. A study should be performed to determine the proper pediatric dose of valganciclovir with and without renal impairment to prevent the occurrence of adverse effects.
Can Olanzapine Cause Delirium in the Elderly?
Authors: Lim Christine J , Trevino Christina , Tampi Rajesh R
Published: December 2005

Objective:

To report a case of delirium probably caused by the atypical antipsychotic olanzapine in a 74-year-old man with dementia.

Case Summary:

A 74-year-old white man with a diagnosis of severe dementia of mixed etiology with behavioral disturbances was admitted to an urban teaching hospital for increasing agitation in the context of worsening dementia. Olanzapine 2.5 mg each evening was started for agitation, and the dose was titrated to 5 mg each evening with additional emergent doses. Memantine, an N-methyl-d-aspartate antagonist, was increased from the admission dose of 10 mg/day to 15 mg/day. The patient developed symptoms of delirium on hospital day 4. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome and other causes of delirium were ruled out. Discontinuation of olanzapine resulted in resolution of the delirium.

Discussion:

Antipsychotic medications are commonly used to treat symptoms of delirium. Atypical antipsychotics are better tolerated in the elderly because of their fewer adverse reactions compared with other antipsychotics. Olanzapine has been successfully used in the treatment of delirium. However, there have been case reports of delirium associated with olanzapine, probably related to its intrinsic anticholinergic effect. Application of the Naranjo probability scale indicated a probable relationship between the onset of delirium and the use of olanzapine in this patient. As of December 1, 2005, this was the second such report of a case in the elderly.

Conclusions:

Although olanzapine is useful in the treatment of delirium, elderly patients treated with this drug can develop delirium and hence should be closely monitored.
Effects of Steady-State Lasofoxifene on Cyp2D6- and Cyp2E1-Mediated Metabolism
Authors: Moller Robert A , Fisher Jeannine M , Taylor Ann E , Kolluri Sheela , Gardner Mark J , Obach R Scott , Walsky Robert L
Published: December 2005

Background:

Lasofoxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator, may be coadministered with other drugs, raising the issue of drug–drug interactions.

Objective:

Using a 7-day, open-label, sequential study to determine whether lasofoxifene at steady-state concentration affects cytochrome P450–mediated drug metabolism.

Methods:

Lasofoxifene was tested in 18 postmenopausal women with probe drugs for CYP2E1 and CYP2D6. Changes in CYP2E1 metabolism were measured by the formation clearance of 6-hydroxychlorzoxazone (6-OHCLZ; Clf,6-OHCLZ) following a 250 mg dose of chlorzoxazone in the absence (day 1) and presence (day 6) of lasofoxifene. Changes in the dextromethorphan/dextrorphan urine metabolic ratio (MRDX) measured the effect on CYP2D6 metabolism following a 30 mg dose of dextromethorphan in the absence and presence of lasofoxifene (days 2 and 7).

Results:

Steady-state lasofoxifene did not affect the formation clearance of 6-OHCLZ or the urinary MRDX. For 6-OHCLZ, the lower boundary (87.12%) of the 90% confidence interval for the ratio (day 6/day 1) of Clf,6-OHCLZ was well above the clinically acceptable ratio of 60%. Both the individual and group mean Clf,6-OHCLZ values were comparable in the absence and presence of lasofoxifene. For MRDX, the upper boundary (129.37%) of the 90% confidence interval for the ratio (day 7/day 2) of MRDX was well below the stipulated ratio of 200%. The individual and mean MRDX values were comparable in the absence and presence of lasofoxifene. Lasofoxifene was well tolerated; adverse events were mild and transient.

Conclusions:

Lasofoxifene has no effect on CYP2E1- or CYP2D6-mediated drug metabolism and should not affect drugs metabolized by other cytochrome P450 isoenzymes.
Possible Interaction Between Lopinavir/Ritonavir And Valproic Acid Exacerbates Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Sheehan Nancy L , Brouillette Marie-Josée , Delisle Marie-Soleil , Allan James
Published: December 2005

Objective:

To describe a case of exacerbated mania potentially related to an interaction between lopinavir/ritonavir and valproic acid (VPA) and propose a mechanism of action for this interaction.

Case Summary:

A 30-year-old man with bipolar disorder and HIV initiated treatment with lopinavir/ritonavir, zidovudine, and lamivudine. Prior to beginning therapy with these antiretrovirals, he was receiving VPA 250 mg 3 times daily, with his most recent VPA concentration measured at 495 μmol/L. Twenty-one days after starting antiretroviral treatment, he became increasingly manic. His VPA concentration at admission was 238 μmol/L, a 48% decrease. The daily VPA dose was increased to 1500 mg, and olanzapine was introduced. The VPA concentration following this dose escalation was 392 μmol/L, and the patient improved clinically.

Discussion:

Fifty percent of VPA is metabolized by glucuronidation, 40% undergoes mitochondrial β-oxidation, and less than 10% is eliminated by the cytochrome P450 isoenzymes. Ritonavir can induce glucuronidation of several medications including ethinyl estradiol, levothyroxine, and lamotrigine. We believe that ritonavir-mediated induction of VPA glucuronidation resulted in a decrease in VPA concentrations and efficacy. An objective causality assessment suggested that the increased mania was probably related to the decrease in VPA concentration and that a possible interaction exists between lopinavir/ritonavir and VPA.

Conclusions:

A potential interaction exists between VPA and all ritonavir-boosted antiretroviral regimens. Clinicians should monitor patients closely for a decreased VPA effect when these medications are given concomitantly.
Topological Hochschild homology of connective complex K -theory
Authors: Ausoni Christian
Published: December 2005

Let ku be the connective complex K -theory spectrum, completed at an odd prime p . We present a computation of the mod ( p, υ 1 ) homotopy algebra of the topological Hochschild homology spectrum of ku .
Finiteness results for modular curves of genus at least 2
Authors: Baker Matthew H. , González-Jiménez Enrique , González Josep , Poonen Bjorn
Published: December 2005

A curve X over [inline-graphic xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:href="01i" /] is modular if it is dominated by X 1 ( N ) for some N ; if in addition the image of its jacobian in J 1 ( N ) is contained in the new subvariety of J 1 ( N ), then X is called a new modular curve. We prove that for each g ≥ 2, the set of new modular curves over [inline-graphic xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:href="02i" /] of genus g is finite and computable. For the computability result, we prove an algorithmic version of the de Franchis-Severi Theorem. Similar finiteness results are proved for new modular curves of bounded gonality, for new modular curves whose jacobian is a quotient of J 0 ( N ) new with N divisible by a prescribed prime, and for modular curves (new or not) with levels in a restricted set. We study new modular hyperelliptic curves in detail. In particular, we find all new modular curves of genus 2 explicitly, and construct what might be the complete list of all new modular hyperelliptic curves of all genera. Finally we prove that for each field k of characteristic zero and g ≥ 2, the set of genus- g curves over k dominated by a Fermat curve is finite and computable.
The displacement map associated to polynomial unfoldings of planar Hamiltonian vector fields
Authors: Gavrilov Lubomir , Iliev Iliya D.
Published: December 2005

We study the displacement map associated to small one-parameter polynomial unfoldings of polynomial Hamiltonian vector fields on the plane. Its leading term, the generating function M ( t ), has an analytic continuation in the complex plane and the real zeroes of M ( t ) correspond to the limit cycles bifurcating from the periodic orbits of the Hamiltonian flow. We give a geometric description of the monodromy group of M ( t ) and use it to formulate sufficient conditions for M ( t ) to satisfy a differential equation of Fuchs or Picard-Fuchs type. As examples, we consider in more detail the Hamiltonian vector fields [inline-graphic xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:href="01i" /] and [inline-graphic xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:href="02i" /], possessing a rotational symmetry of order two and three, respectively. In both cases M ( t ) satisfies a Fuchs-type equation but in the first example M ( t ) is always an Abelian integral (that is to say, the corresponding equation is of Picard-Fuchs type) while in the second one this is not necessarily true. We derive an explicit formula of M ( t ) and estimate the number of its real zeroes.
Cohomological quotients and smashing localizations
Authors: Krause Henning
Published: December 2005

The quotient of a triangulated category modulo a subcategory was defined by Verdier. Motivated by the failure of the telescope conjecture, we introduce a new type of quotients for any triangulated category which generalizes Verdier's construction. Slightly simplifying this concept, the cohomological quotients are flat epimorphisms, whereas the Verdier quotients are Ore localizations. For any compactly generated triangulated category S , a bijective correspondence between the smashing localizations of S and the cohomological quotients of the category of compact objects in S is established. We discuss some applications of this theory, for instance the problem of lifting chain complexes along a ring homomorphism. This is motivated by some consequences in algebraic K -theory and demonstrates the relevance of the telescope conjecture for derived categories. Another application leads to a derived analogue of an almost module category in the sense of Gabber-Ramero. It is shown that the derived category of an almost ring is of this form.
Curvature tensor under the Ricci flow
Authors: Šešum Nataša
Published: December 2005

Consider the unnormalized Ricci flow ( g ij ) t = -2 R ij for t ∈ [0, T ), where T < ∞. Richard Hamilton showed that if the curvature operator is uniformly bounded under the flow for all times t ∈ [0, T ), then the solution can be extended beyond T . We prove that if the Ricci curvature is uniformly bounded under the flow for all times t ∈ [0, T ), then the curvature tensor has to be uniformly bounded as well.
The α-invariant on toric Fano manifolds
Authors: Song Jian
Published: December 2005

The global holomorphic α-invariant plays an important role in the study of the existence of Kähler-Einstein metrics on complex manifolds with positive first Chern class. In this paper, we apply the Tian-Yau-Zelditch expansion of the Szegö kernel on polarized Kähler metrics to approximate almost plurisubharmonic functions and derive a formula to compute the α-invariant on toric Fano manifolds.
New Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Substrates via Self-Assembly of Silver Nanoparticles for Perchlorate Detection in Water
Authors: Wang Wei , Gu Baohua
Published: December 2005

Perchlorate (ClO4−) has recently emerged as a widespread contaminant in drinking water and groundwater supplies in the United States, and a need exists for rapid detection and monitoring of this contaminant. In this study, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) was studied as a means of ClO4− detection, and new sol-gel-based SERS substrates were developed by self-assembly of silver colloidal nanoparticles with various functionalized silane reagents. These substrate materials were tailored to allow detection of ClO4− in water with improved sorptivity, stability, and sensitivity and with the ability to detect ClO4− at concentrations as low as 10−6 M (or 100 μg/L) with good reproducibility. Similar techniques were used to fabricate capillary SERS flow cells by assembling functionalized silver nanoparticles capable of attracting ClO4− to the SERS surface or the internal wall of glass capillaries. These capillary flow cells could be readily configured to allow for in situ, nondestructive detection of ClO4− via fiber optics.
Simple Nanosecond to Minutes Transient Absorption Spectrophotometer
Authors: Mikhonin Aleksandr V. , Maurer Marta K. , Reese Chad E. , Asher Sanford A.
Published: December 2005

We built a transient absorption spectrophotometer that can determine transient absorption spectral changes that occur at times as fast as ∼200 ns and as slow as a minute. The transient absorption can be induced by a temperature-jump (T-jump) or by optical pumping from the deep ultraviolet (UV) to the infrared (IR) by use of single ns Nd:YAG laser pulses. Our use of a fiber-optic spectrometer coupled to a XeF flashlamp makes the collection of transient spectra easy and convenient in the spectral range from the near IR (1700 nm) down to the deep UV (200 nm), with high signal-to-noise (S/N) ratios. The spectral resolution is determined by the specific configuration of the fiber-optic spectrometer (grating groove density, fiber diameter, slit width) and varies between 0.3 and 10 nm. The utility of this spectrometer was demonstrated by measuring the rate at which a polymerized crystalline colloidal array (PCCA) of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) nanogel particles optically switch light due to a T-jump induced by nanosecond 1.9 μm laser pulses. In addition, we measured the rate of optical switching induced by a 3 ns 355 nm pump pulse in PCCA functionalized with azobenzene.
Tunable Laser Diode System for Noninvasive Blood Glucose Measurements
Authors: Olesberg Jonathon T. , Arnold Mark A. , Mermelstein Carmen , Schmitz Johannes , Wagner Joachim
Published: December 2005

Optical sensing of glucose would allow more frequent monitoring and tighter glucose control for people with diabetes. The key to a successful optical noninvasive measurement of glucose is the collection of an optical spectrum with a very high signal-to-noise ratio in a spectral region with significant glucose absorption. Unfortunately, the optical throughput of skin is low due to absorption and scattering. To overcome these difficulties, we have developed a high-brightness tunable laser system for measurements in the 2.0–2.5 μm wavelength range. The system is based on a 2.3 μm wavelength, strained quantum-well laser diode incorporating GaInAsSb wells and AlGaAsSb barrier and cladding layers. Wavelength control is provided by coupling the laser diode to an external cavity that includes an acousto-optic tunable filter. Tuning ranges of greater than 110 nm have been obtained. Because the tunable filter has no moving parts, scans can be completed very quickly, typically in less than 10 ms. We describe the performance of the present laser system and avenues for extending the tuning range beyond 400 nm.
Optimization of Instrumental Parameters of a Near-Field Thermal-Lens Detector for Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: Proskurnin Mikhail A. , Bendrysheva Svetlana N. , Ragozina Nataliya , Heissler Stefan , Faubel Werner , Pyell Ute
Published: December 2005

The optical scheme of a near-field dual-beam mode-mismatched thermal-lens detector for capillary electrophoresis with a crossed-beam configuration employing a multimode HeCd laser (325 nm) as an excitation source was optimized. It is shown that a multimode laser can be successfully used as an excitation source in thermal lensing with minimal deviations in thermal responses from Gaussian excitation sources. An equation for diffraction thermal-lens theory for near-field measurements is deduced, and the experimental results agree with the deduced equation. The temperature rise in the capillary was estimated, and the exponential decrease of the signal with time for static conditions and low flow velocities was explained. The optimum configuration of the detector from the viewpoint of the maximum sensitivity and beam sizes was found. The detector provides a significant improvement in the detection limits for model compounds absorbing at 325 nm (nitrophenols) compared to the results obtained with a commercial absorbance detector operating at the same wavelength.
Steady-State and Transient Ultraviolet Resonance Raman Spectrometer for the 193–270 nm Spectral Region
Authors: Bykov Sergei , Lednev Igor , Ianoul Anatoli , Mikhonin Aleksandr , Munro Calum , Asher Sanford A.
Published: December 2005

We describe a state-of-the-art tunable ultraviolet (UV) Raman spectrometer for the 193–270 nm spectral region. This instrument allows for steady-state and transient UV Raman measurements. We utilize a 5 kHz Ti-sapphire continuously tunable laser (∼20 ns pulse width) between 193 nm and 240 nm for steady-state measurements. For transient Raman measurements we utilize one Coherent Infinity YAG laser to generate nanosecond infrared (IR) pump laser pulses to generate a temperature jump (T-jump) and a second Coherent Infinity YAG laser that is frequency tripled and Raman shifted into the deep UV (204 nm) for transient UV Raman excitation. Numerous other UV excitation frequencies can be utilized for selective excitation of chromophoric groups for transient Raman measurements. We constructed a subtractive dispersion double monochromator to minimize stray light. We utilize a new charge-coupled device (CCD) camera that responds efficiently to UV light, as opposed to the previous CCD and photodiode detectors, which required intensifiers for detecting UV light. For the T-jump measurements we use a second camera to simultaneously acquire the Raman spectra of the water stretching bands (2500–4000 cm−1) whose band-shape and frequency report the sample temperature.
Part III: Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering of Amino Acids and Their Homodipeptide Monolayers Deposited onto Colloidal Gold Surface
Authors: Podstawka Edyta , Ozaki Yukihiro , Proniewicz Leonard M.
Published: December 2005

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectra were measured for monolayers of various amino acids: L-methionine (Met), L-cysteine (Cys), L-glycine (Gly), L-leucine (Leu), L-phenylalanine (Phe), and L-proline (Pro) and their homodipeptides (Met-Met, Cys-Cys, Gly-Gly, Leu-Leu, Phe-Phe, and Pro-Pro) deposited onto a colloidal gold surface. Orientation of amino acids and their homodipeptides, as well as specific-competitive interactions of their functional groups with the gold surface, were predicted by detailed spectral analysis of the obtained SERS spectra. The analysis performed allowed us to propose a particular surface geometry for each amino acid and homodipeptide on the gold surface. In addition, we compared the structures of these molecules adsorbed on colloidal gold and silver surfaces.
Numerical Simulations of Subsurface Probing in Diffusely Scattering Media Using Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Matousek P. , Morris M. D. , Everall N. , Clark I. P. , Towrie M. , Draper E. , Goodship A. , Parker A. W.
Published: December 2005

We present the first elementary model predicting how Raman intensities vary for a range of experimental variables for spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS), a recently proposed technique for the effective retrieval of Raman spectra of subsurface layers in diffusely scattering media. The model was able to reproduce the key observations made from the first SORS experiments, namely the dependence of Raman signal intensities on the spatial offset between the illumination and collection points and the relative contributions to the overall spectrum from the top layer and sub-layer. The application of the SORS concept to a three-layer system is also discussed. The model also clearly indicates that an annular geometry, rather than a point-collection geometry, which was used in the earlier experiments, would yield much improved data.
Nanofabrication of Densely Packed Metal—Polymer Arrays for Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectrometry
Authors: De Jesús M. A. , Giesfeldt K. S. , Oran J. M. , Abu-Hatab N. A. , Lavrik N. V. , Sepaniak M. J.
Published: December 2005

A key element to improve the analytical capabilities of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) resides in the performance characteristics of the SERS-active substrate. Variables such as shape, size, and homogeneous distribution of the metal nanoparticles throughout the substrate surface are important in the design of more analytically sensitive and reliable substrates. Electron-beam lithography (EBL) has emerged as a powerful tool for the systematic fabrication of substrates with periodic nanoscale features. EBL also allows the rational design of nanoscale features that are optimized to the frequency of the Raman laser source. In this work, the efficiency of EBL fabricated substrates are studied by measuring the relative SERS signals of Rhodamine 6G and 1,10-phenanthroline adsorbed on a series of cubic, elliptical, and hexagonal nanopatterned pillars of ma-N 2403 directly coated by physical vapor deposition with 25 nm films of Ag or Au. The raw analyte SERS signals, and signals normalized to metal nanoparticle surface area or numbers of loci, are used to study the effects of nanoparticle morphology on the performance of a rapidly created, diverse collection of substrates. For the excitation wavelength used, the nanoparticle size, geometry, and orientation of the particle primary axis relative to the excitation polarization vector, and particularly the density of nanoparticles, are shown to strongly influence substrate performance. A correlation between the inverse of the magnitude of the laser backscatter passed by the spectrometer and SERS activities of the various substrate patterns is also noted and provides a simple means to evaluate possible efficient coupling of the excitation radiation to localized surface plasmons for Raman enhancement.
Experimental Method for Determining the Damping Parameter of Spectral Lines Emitted by a Microwave Plasma at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Santiago I. , García M. C. , Calzada M. D.
Published: December 2005

In this work, a simple method for experimentally obtaining the value of the damping parameter or a-parameter of the spectral lines emitted by an argon plasma generated at atmospheric pressure is presented. The value of this coefficient indicates the proportion existing between the Lorentzian and Doppler components of the total line profile, which can be approximated to a Voigt function for our experimental conditions. The a-parameter values found were within the value interval recorded in the literature. The results obtained showed that the damping coefficient of the lines next to the fundamental level remains practically constant along the plasma column, whereas for the spectral lines involving high-lying levels, the a-parameter is sensitive to the changes in the electron density in the plasma. In this work it is also proved that the self-absorption phenomenon induces errors in the calculation of a, due to an increase in the broadening of the line profile produced by this phenomenon.
A Chemometric Analysis for Evaluation of Early-Stage Cartilage Degradation by Infrared Fiber-Optic Probe Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Guiyang , Thomson Mary , Dicarlo Edward , Yang Xu , Nestor Bryan , Bostrom Mathias P. G. , Camacho Nancy P.
Published: December 2005

In vivo identification of early-stage cartilage degradation could positively impact disease progression in osteoarthritis, but to date remains a challenge. The primary goal of this study was to develop an infrared fiber-optic probe (IFOP) chemometric method using partial least squares (PLS1) to objectively determine the degree of cartilage degradation. Arthritic human tibial plateaus ( N = 61) were obtained during knee replacement surgery and analyzed by IFOP. IFOP data were collected from multiple regions of each specimen and the cartilage graded according to the Collins Visual Grading Scale of 0, 1, 2, or 3. These grades correspond to cartilage morphology that displayed normal, swelling or softening, superficially slight fibrillation, and deeper fibrillation or serious fibrillation, respectively. The model focused on detecting early cartilage degradation and therefore utilized data from grades 0, 1, and 2. The best PLS1 calibration utilized the spectral range 1733–984 cm−1, and independent validation of the model utilizing 206 spectra to create a model and 105 independent test spectra resulted in a correlation between the predicted and actual Collins grade of R2 = 0.8228 with a standard error of prediction of 0.258 with a PLS1 rank of 15 PLS factors. A preliminary PLS1 calibration that utilized a cross-validation technique to investigate the possibility of correlation with histological tissue grade (33 spectra from 18 tissues) resulted in R2 = 0.8408 using only eight PLS factors, a very encouraging outcome. Thus, the groundwork for use of IFOP-based chemometric determination of early cartilage degradation has been established.
Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Illicit Drug Mixtures on Paper Currency Using Raman Microspectroscopy
Authors: Noonan Kathryn Y. , Beshire Melissa , Darnell Jason , Frederick Kimberley A.
Published: December 2005

Measurement of illicit drugs on paper currency is of interest for evidentiary purposes in legal cases involving the drug trade. Current methods, primarily based on mass spectrometry, are destructive and prevent re-analysis of the evidence. This article details a method based on Raman microspectroscopy that is able to collect spectra from individual crystals on the surface of paper currency. Mixtures of isoxsuprine and norephedrine, which are non-pharmacologically active drug surrogates, as well as lidocaine and benzocaine, common excipients in street drugs, were doped in small quantities onto US currency. Significant fluorescence interference resulted from the underlying dollar bill. This work presents two methods for reducing the fluorescence background, photobleaching and background subtraction, which both worked well. Finally, a method for determining the percent composition of individual components in heterogeneous mixtures was developed by systematically sampling the surface of the dollar bill. Results were accurate within a few percent, although the method was quite time consuming.
Detection of Lead Derived from Automotive Scrap Residue Using a Direct Push Fiber-Optic Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy Metal Sensor
Authors: Mosier-Boss P. A. , Lieberman S. H.
Published: December 2005

At Naval Base Point Loma in San Diego, California, a canyon had been filled with construction debris and automotive scrap residue (ASR), the latter of which included lead acid batteries. A magnetic survey and induced potential (IP)/DC resistivity survey showed the presence of anomalies at the western end of the site where historic records indicated that the ASR had been placed. Lead concentration depth profiles were obtained in situ and in real time at the site using a direct push fiber-optic laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (FO-LIBS) sensor probe. Lead, along with strontium and titanium, was detected at depths of 7 to 8 m bgs. These results provided confirmation that the magnetic/IP anomalies at the site are due to ASR.
Identification and Quantification of Industrial Grade Glycerol Adulteration in Red Wine with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy Using Chemometrics and Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Dixit Vivechana , Tewari Jagdish C. , Cho Byoung-Kwan , Irudayaraj Joseph M. K.
Published: December 2005

Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) single bounce micro-attenuated total reflectance (mATR) spectroscopy, combined with multivariate and artificial neural network (ANN) data analysis, was used to determine the adulteration of industrial grade glycerol in selected red wines. Red wine samples were artificially adulterated with industrial grade glycerol over the concentration range from 0.1 to 15% and calibration models were developed and validated. Single bounce infrared spectra of glycerol adulterated wine samples were recorded in the fingerprint mid-infrared region, 900–1500 cm−1. Partial least squares (PLS) and PLS first derivatives were used for quantitative analysis ( r2 = 0.945 to 0.998), while linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and canonical variate analysis (CVA) were used for classification and discrimination. The standard error of prediction (SEP) in the validation set was between 1.44 and 2.25%. Classification of glycerol adulterants in the different brands of red wine using CVA resulted in a classification accuracy in the range between 94 and 98%. Artificial neural network analysis based on the quick back propagation network (BPN) and the radial basis function network (RBFN) algorithms had classification success rates of 93% using BPN and 100% using RBFN. The genetic algorithm network was able to predict the concentrations of glycerol in wine up to an accuracy of r2 = 0.998.
Optimization of Measurement Conditions of an Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer with High-Energy Polarized Beam Excitation for Analysis of Aerosol Filters
Authors: Spolnik Z. , Belikov K. , Van Meel K. , Adriaenssens E. , De Roeck F. , Van Grieken R.
Published: December 2005

A new commercial energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (EDXRF), applying a three-dimensional geometry and high-energy excitation, was optimized for the quantitative analysis of aerosols deposited on filters. The preliminary results are presented here. First-order calibration curves were obtained for 20 elements deposited on the filters. The accuracy of the applied method and of the obtained calibration curves was checked by the measurement of a standard reference material from NIST. The precision of the analysis for the majority of the analytes was better than 10%. Due to the obtained low detection limits, it is possible to determine the analytes usually present at very low concentrations in ambient air, such as, e.g., Cd, Sb, Cr, and V. It is also possible to decrease significantly the time of analysis or the time of the sampling.
Resonant Laser Ablation of Metals Detected by Atomic Emission in a Microwave Plasma and by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Cleveland Danielle , Stchur Peter , Hou Xiandeng , Yang Karl X. , Zhou Jack , Michel Robert G.
Published: December 2005

It has been shown that an increase in sensitivity and selectivity of detection of an analyte can be achieved by tuning the ablation laser wavelength to match that of a resonant gas-phase transition of that analyte. This has been termed resonant laser ablation (RLA). For a pulsed tunable nanosecond laser, the data presented here illustrate the resonant enhancement effect in pure copper and aluminum samples, chromium oxide thin films, and for trace molybdenum in stainless steel samples, and indicate two main characteristics of the RLA phenomenon. The first is that there is an increase in the number of atoms ablated from the surface. The second is that the bandwidth of the wavelength dependence of the ablation is on the order of 1 nm. The effect was found to be virtually identical whether the atoms were detected by use of a microwave-induced plasma with atomic emission detection, by an inductively coupled plasma with mass spectrometric detection, or by observation of the number of laser pulses required to penetrate through thin films. The data indicate that a distinct ablation laser wavelength dependence exists, probably initiated via resonant radiation trapping, and accompanied by collisional broadening. Desorption contributions through radiation trapping are substantiated by changes in crater morphology as a function of wavelength and by the relatively broad linewidth of the ablation laser wavelength scans, compared to gas-phase excitation spectra. Also, other experiments with thin films demonstrate the existence of a distinct laser–material interaction and suggest that a combination of desorption induced by electronic transition (DIET) with resonant radiation trapping could assist in the enhancement of desorption yields. These results were obtained by a detailed inspection of the effect of the wavelength of the ablation laser over a narrow range of energy densities that lie between the threshold of laser-induced desorption of species and the usual analytical ablation regime. Normal ablation employs high-power lasers in an attempt to create a vapor plume without selective vaporization, and with a stoichiometry that accurately represents the stoichiometry of species in the solid sample. RLA, as a method of selective vaporization, appears to provide an opportunity to exploit selective vaporization in new ways.
Raman Spectroscopic Studies of the Phase Transitions in Hexane at High Pressure
Authors: Huai Wang , Haifei Zheng , Qiang Sun
Published: December 2005

Raman spectroscopic study of n-hexane was carried out in a cubic zirconia anvil cell up to approximately 2.0 GPa. Under high pressure, the C–H stretching region of the spectrum at 2850–3000 cm−1 shows measurable changes in frequency, bandwidth, and intensity. These Raman bands shift towards higher frequencies with increasing pressure. At about 1.4 GPa, phase transition from liquid to solid was induced by compression, as was simultaneously observed with the built-in microscope.
A Prospective Study on the Influences of Workplace Stress on Mental Health
Authors: Babazono Akira , Mino Yoshio , Nagano Jun , Tsuda Toshihide , Araki Tomoko
Published: December 2005

A Prospective Study on the Influences of Workplace Stress on Mental Health: Akira Babazono, et al. Institute of Health Science, Kyushu University—The purpose of this study was to clarify the influences of subjective stress in the workplace on mental health according to work contents in subjects without mental health problems. In a survey in fiscal 1997, 1,246 (84.6%) of all 1,363 workers of a manufacturing company in Japan, responded to a questionnaire including questions on subjective stress and GHQ60, and 1,135 workers answered all questions (effective response rate, 83.3%). In fiscal 1997, there were 705 “mentally healthy” workers with a GHQ score of ≤16. Of the 705 workers, 603 (85.5%) could be followed up by another survey 2 yr later (fiscal 1999). According to the contents of the work, multiple logistic regression analysis was performed using the status of mental health in fiscal 1999 as a dependent variable and subjective workplace stress, sex, age, smoking, and alcohol usage in fiscal 1997 as explanatory variables. The statistically significant items relating to problematic mental health for “factory work” were “too much competition”, “feel pressed for time”, and “cannot keep up with new technology” (Table 4). For “too much competition”, the odds ratios (95% CI) of “always” and “sometimes” to “do not feel” were 4.04 (1.39–11.76) and 1.85 (0.92–3.70), respectively. For “feel pressed for time”, the odds ratios (95% CI) of “always” and “sometimes” to “do not feel” were 2.40 (1.08–5.35) and 0.98 (0.46–2.06), respectively. For “cannot keep up with new technology”, the odds ratio (95% CI) of “always” and “sometimes” to “do not feel” were 6.54 (0.37–116.36) and 2.52 (1.34–4.77), respectively. The statistically significant items relating to problematic mental health for “research and development or office work” were “too much trouble at work” and “feel pressed for time”. For “too much trouble at work”, the odds ratios (95% CI) of “always” and “sometimes” to “do not feel” were 3.92 (1.41–10.93) and 1.44 (0.67–3.09), respectively. For “feel pressed for time”, the odds ratios (95% CI) of “always” and “sometimes” to “do not feel” were 2.69 (1.04–6.93) and 2.09 (0.94–4.67), respectively. Our study suggests that subjective stress items aggravating mental health are different among work contents. If we could identify items of workplace stress influencing mental health by work contents, we could utilize the results for a mental health promotion program.
Expression of Clara Cell Secretory Protein in the Lungs of Rats Exposed to Crystalline Silica In Vivo
Authors: Morimoto Yasuo , Nagatomo Hiroko , Hirohashi Masami , Oyabu Takako , Ogami Akira , Yamato Hiroshi , Kuroda Kaori , Obata Yasuko , Higashi Toshiaki , Tanaka Isamu
Published: December 2005

Expression of Clara Cell Secretory Protein in the Lungs of Rats Exposed to Crystalline Silica In Vivo: Yasuo Morimoto, et al. Department of Occupational Pneumology, Institute of Industrial and Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health—It has been theorized that Clara cell secretion protein (CCSP) plays a critical role in regulating the acute inflammatory response in the lung. We hypothesized that CCSP is also related to lung injury induced by occupational dust. The present study was conducted to investigate the time course of the expression of CCSP in lungs exposed to crystalline silica in vivo. Male Wistar rats were administered 1 mg or 2 mg of silica suspended in saline by a single intratracheal instillation and were sacrificed at 3 d, 1 wk, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months of recovery time. The expression of CCSP was observed by RT‐PCR and western blot analysis. Exposure to 2 mg of silica decreased in levels of CCSP mRNA at 3 d, 1 wk, 1 month and 6 months following intratracheal instillation. The protein level of CCSP in silica‐exposed rats was decreased at 3 d, 7 d and 1 month after a single instillation of 2 mg. The decreases in CCSP at the acute phase in this experiment suggest that CCSP may regulate the acute injury of the lung exposed to silica.
A Prospective Cohort Study of Employment Status and Mortality from Circulatory Disorders among Japanese Workers
Authors: Fujino Yoshihisa , Iso Hiroyasu , Tamakoshi Akiko , Inaba Yutaka , Koizumi Akio , Kubo Tatsuhiko , Yoshimura Takesumi ,   for The JACC Study Group
Published: December 2005

A Prospective Cohort Study of Employment Status and Mortality from Circulatory Disorders among Japanese Workers: Yoshihisa Fujino, et al. Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Graduate school of Medicine, Osaka University—This study prospectively examined the association between employment status (employed or self‐employed) and the risk of death from circulatory diseases among Japanese workers. A baseline survey was conducted between 1988 and 1990 among 110,792 inhabitants of 45 areas. Follow‐up surveys were conducted annually and causes of death were identified from death certificates. Analysis was restricted to 25,945 individuals (15,434 male and 10,511 female) with ages ranging from 40 to 59 years. These subjects were employed or self‐employed at the time of recruitment. The risks of self‐employment for death due to circulatory system disease, ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease were estimated using the Cox proportional hazards model. During the 10‐year follow‐up period (151,817 and 104,870 person‐years for males and females, respectively), 720 male and 193 female deaths were recorded. No significant differences were detected between the employed and self‐employed workers in the total death risk, or the risk of death from ischemic heart disease. However, self‐employed men showed a significantly lower risk of death from cerebrovascular disease compared with employed men (relative risk=0.58; 95% confidence interval=0.35, 0.97). Our findings suggest that employed men are at increased risk of death from cerebrovascular disease compared with self‐employed men.
Occupational Safety and Health Aspects of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Japanese Companies Listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE) First Section
Authors: Kawashita Futoshi , Taniyama Yukari , Hwi Song You , Fujisaki Takeshi , Kameda Takashi , Mori Koji
Published: December 2005

Occupational Safety and Health Aspects of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Japanese Companies listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE) First Section: Futoshi Kawashita, et al. Occupational Health Training Center, University of Occupational and Environmental Health—Recently, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is becoming widely recognized as an issue for Japanese companies. Corporate responsibility for employees is considered important by various stakeholders, and occupational safety and health is regarded as one of these responsibilities. The present authors examined this issue from the viewpoint of corporate management by analysis of statements found in CSR‐related reports. For companies listed on the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE), we searched for CSR‐related reports, and titles and contents, based on two established guidelines: the GRI Sustainability Reporting Guidelines 2002 as the international reference and the Environmental Reporting Guidelines of the Ministry of the Environment, Government of Japan, as the domestic reference. Corporations that published CSR reports were 26.3% (416/1,581) of the total, and large differences were recognized by type of industry. Comparing the numbers of pages for various contents, more concern was shown about the environment than about social activity, indicating the environment to be the main issue of CSR in Japan. In the items included in the guidelines, many matters about occupational accidents were mentioned, but it was found that statements regarding HIV/AIDS, which is not of such strong social concern in Japan, and statements regarding the costs of safety that are difficult to calculate were few. However, statements regarding mental health, which is of high interest socially, were many, even though this issue is not included in the two guidelines used. In revising the guidelines, these matters should be reviewed. In the future, continuance of analysis of CSR‐related reports with regard to changes and comparisons with overseas reports will help improve occupational safety and health.
Penetration of Ultraviolet Radiation in the Marine Environment. A Review
Authors: Tedetti Marc , Sempéré Richard
Published: December 2005

UV radiation (UVR) is a significant ecological factor in the marine environment that can have important effects on planktonic organisms and dissolved organic matter (DOM). The penetration of UVR into the water column is likely to change in the near future due to interactions between global warming and ozone depletion. In this study we report underwater instruments employed for the measurement of UVR and we review data dealing with the depth of UVR penetration in different oceanic areas including the open ocean, Antarctic waters and coastal waters. We provide the 10% irradiance depth (Z10%) for UV‐A and UV‐B as well as for DNA damage effective dose (DNA), which we calculated from the values of diffuse attenuation coefficients or vertical profiles reported in the literature. We observe a clear distinction between open ocean (high Z10%, no variation in the ratio UV‐B/UV‐A), Antarctic waters (increase in the ratio UV‐B/UV‐A during ozone hole conditions) and coastal waters (low Z10%, no variation in the ratio W‐B/UV‐A). These variations in the penetration of WR could lead to differences in the relative importance of photobiologicaVphotochemical processes. We also compare in this study the penetration of UV‐B (unweighted and weighted by the Setlow action spectrum) and DNA damage effective dose.