bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selecting Organization Development Theory From an HRD Perspective
Authors: Lynham Susan A. , Chermack Thomas J. , Noggle Melissa A.
Published: May 2004

As is true for human resource development (HRD), the field of organization development (OD) draws from numerous disciplines to inform its theory base. However, the identification and selection of theory to inform improved practice remains a challenge and begs the question of what can be used to inform and guide one in the identification and selection of practice-informing theory. This article considers the topic of OD for performance improvement and proposes that the selection of OD theory relevant to the topic can be informed from two perspectives: the theoretical foundations of HRD and multiple domains of performance improvement. When integrated, these two views inform the development of a heuristic and theory-for-practice (TFP) matrix useful to researchers and practitioners. The synthesis of this heuristic is presented, discussed, and applied to the topic of OD for performance improvement. Implications of the TFP matrix for further research and improved practice are briefly noted.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Generalized Anxiety in a 6-Year-Old
Authors: Anderson Kristen G.
Published: May 2004

Cognitive-behavioral treatment has been identified as a probably efficacious treatment for anxiety disorders in children. In the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder in childhood, two cognitive-behavioral treatments have received themost empirical attention, Kendall’s “Coping Cat” program and Silverman and Kurtines’s transfer-of-control approach. The following case study involves the use of the transfer-of-control approach and medication in the treatment of a 6-year-old with generalized anxiety disorder. At the onset of treatment, this child was unable to engage in age-appropriate social activities, eat in public, and be separated from his parents. In addition, he had lost 10 pounds and was having significant difficulties sleeping. At 3-month follow-up, he was reengagedwith his peers, separating from his parents, and had returned to his normal weight.
Burn Injuries From Radiation
Authors: Pandey Manoj , Rajan Balakrishnan
Published: May 2004

Accidental exposure to radiation leading to injury and illness occurs notwithstanding safety devices and protocols used for protection. The medicalmanagement of radiation casualties is amajor concern. Radiation effects are principally thermal, similar to electrical burn injuries, but with some unique systemic expression. The pathological effects of radiation to the skin are known; it is often difficult to assess the level of severity, quickly and with accuracy, because of the delay between exposure and the appearance of lesions and obscured lesions.The severity depends mainly on the nature of the radiation.High-energy penetrating radiation causes more irreversible damage than low-energy radiation, which penetrates tissues less than the former. A thorough knowledge, high index of suspicion, and a team approach are keys to successful management.
Is There Enough Information About Foot Care Among Patients With Diabetes?
Authors: Basu Subrata , Hadley Julie , Tan Rebecca Marie , Williams Jenny , Shearman C. P.
Published: May 2004

The United Kingdom has a diabetic population of approximately 1.2million. It is estimated that approximately 15% of all patients with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer in their lifetime. Twenty-five percent of all patients with foot ulcers will have a major amputation.There have been several publications demonstrating a reduction in foot ulcer and amputation rate through a range of active educational programs and ways of improving patient awareness of the problem. The authors’ study attempted to establish the amount of information patients with diabetes have about care of their feet. Of 110 patientsrecruited, 37 (33%) claimed they had never received any information about foot care. Of those who had received advice, approximately half had received information or had access to information over the previous 10 years. In the majority of cases, information had been given once only. In conclusion, 33% of patients with diabetes did not recall receiving any information about foot care.
Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in Inflammation and Malignancy
Authors: Jho David H. , Cole Shawn M. , Lee Ellyn M. , Espat N. Joseph
Published: May 2004

Omega-3 fatty acids (FAs), which include eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid, are found in fish oils and have long been investigated as components of therapy for various disease states. Population studies initially revealed the cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 FAs and EPA, with subsequent clinical studies supporting the therapeutic role of omega-3 FAs in cardiovascular and chronic inflammatory conditions. Prospective randomized placebo-controlled trials have also demonstrated the utility of omega-3 FA supplementation in malignancy and cancer cachexia. In recent years, in vitro and animal studies have elucidated some of the mechanistic explanations underlying the wide range of biological effects produced by omega-3 FAs and EPA, including their antiproliferative and anticachectic actions in malignancy. In this review, the authors discuss the recent progress made with omega-3 FAs, focusing on the advances in mechanistic understanding and the results of clinical trials.
Cancer and Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Italy: Personal Observations and Historical Considerations
Authors: Moss Ralph W.
Published: May 2004

This article contains observations and historical considerations on cancer and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in Italy, a country that has a great tradition in medical research, going back to the Renaissance. However, Italy does not have a strong tradition of using CAM approaches in the treatment of cancer. While surveys show that the Italian population is eager to learn more about CAM, the medical profession there is largely dismissive of these methods. In 1997-1998, the notorious Luigi Di Bella affair occurred in Italy, when a professor of physiology at Modena proposed a nonconventional approach to cancer treatment, based on the off-label use of somatostatin. This treatment found champions in the media and general public but was opposed by most of the medical profession. Although clinical trials later demonstrated that it had no efficacy, the affair divided Italian public opinion and nearly brought down the national government. Italy no longer has prominent proponents of nonconventional treatments in cancer. However, it continues to have innovative scientists who do important work that is consonant with a CAM approach. This article considers the work of 3 such scientists: Paolo Lissoni, MD, of Monza (Milan), who has carried out numerous clinical trials with the pineal hormone melatonin; Giancarlo Pizza, MD, of Bologna, who has done extensive work on the use of transfer factor and other immunomodulators in the treatment of renal cell and other kinds of cancer; and Aldo Mancini, MD, of Naples, who has isolated a mutated formof Mn-SOD-2 from the growth medium of a unique liposarcoma cell line. These scientists have introduced some flexibility into a rigid state-run hospital system by offering patients innovative treatment options in the context of approved clinical trials.
Polycystic Liver Disease
Authors: Rhodes Paula , Aranda Sharon
Published: May 2004

As sonographic resolution capabilities improve and more abdominal sonograms are requested, diagnosis of polycystic liver disease (PLD) is on the increase. At first glance, the numerous liver cysts caused by PLD can be alarming. However, the disease is usually asymptomatic, and lab tests are generally within normal ranges. Prudent sonographers are advised to recognize and document the cysts for future reference in the event that symptoms progress. Appropriate reactions by the clinician, along with an understanding of the disease and its ramifications, are important to keep the patient informed.
Induction of preneoplastic altered hepatic foci following dietary sulphur supplementation
Authors: Arora Annu , Shukla Yogeshwer
Published: May 2004

Sulphur is an essential micronutrient required by the body in low concentrations, but its high intake can lead to a serious health hazard. Sulphur compounds are reported to induce several toxic responses in animals, but so far no reports are available on the toxic effects of elemental sulphur, following dietary supplementation. The present investigation was carried out with the aim of providing an insight into the role of dietary supplementation of sulphur on the induction of altered hepatic foci (AHF) using medium term liver bioassay in Wistar rats. Induction of AHF are early neoplastic changes in rat liver in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-initiated and 2-acetylamino fluorene (2-AAF)-promoted hepatocarcinogenesis. The role of sulphur on induction of AHF was evaluated by the development of negative enzymatic foci for alkaline phosphatase (AlkPase), adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase), glucose-6-phosphatase (G-6-Pase) and positive foci for marker enzymes, glutamyl transferase (GGT), placental isozyme of glutathione-S transferase (GST-P). A significant dose-dependent decrease in the relative and absolute liver weight of sulphur-administered rats was recorded. Dietary supplementation of 2% and 4% sulphur significantly induces both negative and positive focal areas in terms of area and counts for AHF. However, 1% sulphur administration failed to induce AHF up to significant levels. The results thus revealed the possible tumorigenic risk associated with the high sulphur-containing diet.
Multiple dose toxicity study of the humanized anti-epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibody h-R3 intravenously administered to Cercopithecus aethiops sabaeus monkeys
Authors: Arteaga-Pérez María E , Maceira M , Casaó A , Hernández-Sosa O , Bada-Barro Ana M , León-Goñí A , Orpheé-Suárez R , Cuevas-Fiallo A , Moreno-Díaz D , Padro-Gutiérrez P , Baro-González F , Rodríguez-Rodríguez V , Charoo-Ruiz L , Vázquez-Castro F , Ballester-Labrada A , Cedeño M
Published: May 2004

The h-R3 is a humanized growth factor receptor monoclonal antibody (mAb) in development for the treatment of head and neck tumours in which malignant cells overexpress the Epidermal Growth Factor receptor. The present study was designed to evaluate the toxicity of repeated intravenous doses of the h-R3 mAb in a relevant species demonstrated by the avidin-biotin-peroxidase immunohistochemical (IHC) technique in skin biopsy samples from three Cercopithecus aethiops sabaeus monkeys (green monkeys). Additionally, 18 green monkeys were daily intravenously treated during 14 consecutive days. Monkeys were distributed into three experimental groups with three animals of each sex in each group. Group I received saline solution and served as control group; group II received 2.85 mg/kg of h-R3 mAb; and group III received 11.4 mg/kg of the h-R3 mAb. During the study there were no deaths, neither pathological clinical signs, or variations in the corporal weight curve. The electroneurophysiological and sanguine chemistry results did not evidence alterations related to the assay substance. Areas of haematomas, haemorrhages and inflammation, probably related with the administration procedure, were observed at the administration zones of all animals; this fact could also explain the increase in the neutrophil count of all animals at the end of the study. The electrocardiography study showed that in the 14 days of the study one female monkey, from the higher dose group, shifted its cardiac axis from +60° to +120°; this finding could be interpreted as a right ventricular elongation due to the relative high daily administered volume.

It is concluded that doses up to 11.4 mg/kg of h-R3, intravenously administered during 14 consecutive days to Cercopithecus aethiops sabaeus monkeys do not produce considerable toxic effects in the studied system.
Serum IgE elevation correlates with blood lead levels in battery manufacturing workers
Authors: Heo Y , Lee B-K , Ahn K-D , Lawrence D A
Published: May 2004

Lead (Pb), an occupational and environmental toxicant, is known to induce immunomodulatory effects resulting in lowered resistance to infectious micro-organisms and altered levels of immunoglobulins in humans. Preferential activation of type-2 helper T cells and inhibition of type-1 T-cell activation is considered a cellular mechanism for the Pb-induced immune alteration, which has not been investigated well in humans. Lead's influence on in vivo balance between type-1 and type-2 activities was assessed among workers exposed to Pb through battery manufacturing in Korea. Serum IgE levels were significantly higher in the workers with a blood Pb level (PbB) of ≤30 μg/dL than in the workers with a PbB of <30 μg/dL. Furthermore, the serum IgE concentrations significantly correlated with PbB although no significant relationship between PbB and serum interleukin-4 or interferon gamma levels was observed. The present study indicates that elevation of IgE levels may be an immunologic index for Pb-induced in vivo toxicities, potentially involved with progression of various allergic diseases in humans.
Prevention of acute adriamycin cardiotoxicity by dantrolene in rats
Authors: Büyükokuroğlu Mehmet Emin , Taysi Seyithan , Buyukavci Mustafa , Bakan Ebubekir
Published: May 2004

Possible preventive effect of dantrolene against the peroxidative damage in rat heart which was induced by the administration of an acute dose of adriamycin (ADR, 20 mg/kg, i.p.) has been examined. Forty-eight hours after ADR administration, biochemical changes including the activities of serum creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in heart tissue were measured. Pretreatment of rats with dantrolene, given i.p. 30 min prior to ADR injection, substantially reduced the peroxidative damage in the myocardium, and markedly lowered the serum CKMB, LDH and AST. The protective effects obtained by dantrolene administration, however, were not complete and did not reach those of the control group. Dantrolene, at 5 mg/kg, was useful to obtain significant protective effects, while the protector effect of higher dantrolene dosing level (10 mg/kg) was weak or absent. These results suggest that, at least in part, due to antioxidative properties, dantrolene may provide a significant protective effect against acute ADR-induced cardiotoxicity.
Passive smoking elevates neurotrophin levels in tears
Authors: Kimata Hajime
Published: May 2004

The effect of passive smoking on levels of neurotrophin in tears was studied in normal subjects or patients with atopic keratoconjunctivitis (AKC). Basal levels of neurotrophins, nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) and NT-4, in tears were significantly higher in AKC patients than those in normal subjects. Passive smoking had no effect on levels of neurotrophin in tears of normal subjects, while it elevated levels of NGF, BDNF, NT-3 and NT-4 in tears of AKC patients. These results indicate that passive smoking elevates levels of neurotrophin in tears, which in turn may aggravate AKC.
Gaze Following in Newborns
Authors: Farroni Teresa , Massaccesi Stefano , Pividori Donatella , Johnson Mark H.
Published: May 2004

Eye gaze has been shown to be an effective cue for directing attention in adults. Whether this ability operates from birth is unknown. Three experiments were carried out with 2‐ to 5‐day‐old newborns. The first experiment replicated the previous finding that newborns are able to discriminate between direct and averted gaze, and extended this finding from real to schematic faces. In Experiments 2 and 3 newborns were faster to make saccades to peripheral targets cued by the direction of eye movement of a central schematic face, but only when the motion of the pupils was visible. These results suggest that newborns may show a rudimentary form of gaze following.
The status of telepsychiatry services in Canada: a national survey
Authors: Urness Doug , Hailey David , Delday Lenore , Callanan Ted , Orlik Herb
Published: May 2004

A survey of Canadian telepsychiatry programmes was undertaken to provide information for future health services. Fourteen programmes were identified. They used a variety of service models and administrative arrangements. The average number of clinical consultations per programme per year was 238, which corresponds to 107 psychiatric teleconsultations per million persons served by the programmes. The rate for children's telepsychiatry services was higher, at 194 per million. Comparison with some telepsychiatry programmes in the USA revealed similar patterns of activity. While the development of telepsychiatry services in Canada is promising, there is nevertheless concern regarding the viability and activity levels of these programmes over the long term. This survey demonstrates that programmes from across a large country can respond to a standardized questionnaire and provide comparable information.
An assessment of the readiness of hospice organizations to accept technological innovation
Authors: Parker Oliver Debra R , Demiris George
Published: May 2004

We surveyed seven of the 62 certified hospice programmes in the state of Missouri. The survey consisted of 19 questions that covered demographic information, how employees received new information, the current use of various forms of technology, employees' comfort with technology and their perceptions of the use of video-phones. A total of 124 surveys were returned. Respondents were categorized within the following disciplines: nurses (48%), administrators and nurse supervisors (6%), social workers (9%), physicians (3%), home health aids (18%), chaplains (5%) and other staff (e.g. clerical and bereavement staff) (12%). Staff reported using several types of technological device at work but not a video-phone or a Web camera. There were significant differences between hospices in the degree of use of computers at work, the number of devices used at work and the perceived benefits of video-phone technology. There were significant differences between disciplines in the degree of use of computers at work and at home, the number of devices used at work, and their comfort both with the use of new technology and with the idea of introducing new technology to patients and their families. Because there were variations in the perceived usefulness of video-phones for hospice care, the introduction of such equipment would require substantial involvement of the users.
The feasibility of telemedicine for the training and supervision of general practitioners performing ultrasound examinations of patients with urinary tract symptoms
Authors: Hussain P , Deshpande A , Shridhar P , Saini G , Kay D
Published: May 2004

Ultrasound examinations were carried out by a general practitioner on patients who presented with lower urinary tract symptoms. To assist in the interpretation of ultrasound anatomy, still images were captured during the ultrasound examination and transmitted to a university expert. In total 15 telemedicine sessions were conducted, using PC-based videoconferencing equipment connected by ISDN at 128 kbit/s. Fifteen patients were randomly selected and both the transmitted and hard-copy images (printed on thermal paper) were graded for technical quality. Data were missing for 13 of the possible 105 paired comparisons, as some images could not be evaluated. Overall agreement between the technical quality scores for the transmitted and hard-copy images was poor (weighted kappa=0.04). The 105 transmitted images were also rated for their diagnostic quality: 90% were classified as diagnostic and 10% were judged to be non-diagnostic. The results show the feasibility of tele-ultrasound in primary care. The general practitioner concerned benefited from regular ultrasound training and supervision, and achieved a satisfactory level of clinical competency in scanning the prostate, bladder and kidneys.
Testing the “Inverted‐U” Phenomenon in Moral Development on Recently Promoted Senior Managers and Partners*
Authors: BERNARDI RICHARD A. , ARNOLD DONALD F.
Published: May 2004

This paper examines the change in the average level of moral development over a 7.5‐year period of promotion, attrition, and survival in five Big 6 firms. The study improves upon previous cross‐sectional studies that found decreases in the average level of moral development at the senior manager and partner levels, which has been referred to as the “inverted‐U” phenomenon. Problems with these studies that limit the generalizability of their findings include their cross‐sectional nature and samples that usually come from one or two firms. Over a 7.5‐year period, we found that the participating Big 6 firms retained auditors with higher average levels of moral development (measured using the defining issues test), while those with lower average levels left the firms. The average level of moral development for new partners was at least as high as the group from which they came. This research suggests that the concern about Big 6 firms retaining a higher proportion of auditors with lower moral development may be an artifact of research design.
Last‐Chance Earnings Management: Using the Tax Expense to Meet Analysts' Forecasts*
Authors: DHALIWAL DAN S. , GLEASON CRISTI A. , MILLS LILLIAN F.
Published: May 2004

We assert that the tax expense is a powerful context in which to study earnings management, because it is one of the last accounts closed prior to earnings announcements. Although many pre‐tax accruals must be posted in the year‐end general ledger, managers estimate and negotiate tax expense with their auditors immediately prior to earnings announcements. We hypothesize that changes from third‐ to fourth‐quarter effective tax rates (ETRs) are negatively related to whether and how much a firm's earnings absent tax expense management miss analysts' consensus forecast, a proxy for target earnings. We measure earnings absent tax expense management as actual pre‐tax earnings adjusted for the annual ETR reported at the third quarter. We provide robust evidence that firms lower their projected ETRs when they miss the consensus forecast, which is consistent with firms decreasing their tax expense if non‐tax sources of earnings management are insufficient to achieve targets. We also find that firms that exceed earnings targets increase their ETR, but this effect is less significant. By studying the tax expense in total, rather than narrow components of deferred tax expense, our results provide general evidence that reported taxes are used to manage earnings.
Accounting for Flexibility and Efficiency: A Field Study of Management Control Systems in a Restaurant Chain*
Authors: AHRENS THOMAS , CHAPMAN CHRISTOPHER S.
Published: May 2004

While some field studies have suggested that management control systems can be used simultaneously to make organizations more efficient and more flexible, the contingency literature has found it difficult to address this issue in the absence of a clear and comprehensive typology for analyzing more processual uses of management control systems. This paper distinguishes between enabling and coercive (Adler and Borys 1996) uses of management control systems. Coercive use refers to the stereotypical top‐down control approach that emphasizes centralization and preplanning. In contrast, enabling use seeks to put employees in a position to deal directly with the inevitable contingencies in their work. The design principles that underlie the enabling use of management control systems are repair, internal transparency, global transparency, and flexibility. Through a detailed analysis of a single‐case field study carried out over a two‐year period, we illustrate how management pursued the objectives of efficiency and flexibility by using management control systems in enabling ways. We suggest that the four design principles of enabling use can facilitate field studies of management control systems, but that they can also be used to define an enabling typology for contingency researchers to analyze the ways in which organizations simultaneously pursue efficiency and flexibility through their management control systems.
Mutation in the STR Locus D21S11 of Father Causing Allele Mismatch in the Child
Authors: Thangaraj K , Reddy AD , Singh L
Published: May 2004

We analyzed a case of paternity dispute with 15 autosomal STR loci and found a mismatch in one of the alleles of the locus D21S11 in the child. The composition of the alleles of this locus in the mother, suspicious father, and child were 29/32, 29/29, and 29/30, respectively. The combined paternity index (2.4×1010) and paternity probability (0.9999) suggest that the suspicious father is the biological father of the child. Further analysis of 6 Y chromosome STR loci revealed matching of all the Y chromosomal alleles of the child with that of the suspicious father. Since there was a perfect match of all the paternal alleles inherited (15 autosomal and 6 Y chromosomal) in the child with that of the suspicious father except the allele D21S11, it is suggested that this might be a case of mutation. Cloning and sequencing of all the alleles of the locus D21S11 of the suspicious father, mother, and the child helped in determining that the suspicious father contributed the mutated allele.
Assignment of Paternity in a Judicial Dispute Between Two Neighbor Holstein Dairy Farmers
Authors: Lirón JP , Ripoli MV , García PP , Giovambattista G
Published: May 2004

DNA profiling was used as evidence to assign paternity in a dispute between two neighbors in a judicial case of undue appropriation of cattle offspring from five alleged Holstein sires. Five offspring were genotyped using ten genetic markers (nine microsatellites and the BOLA-DRB3 locus). The computer program CERVUS was used to estimate the LOD score values and the confidence of paternity assignments. The results presented here show that three out of five paternity cases were assigned at 95% of confidence to a single sire with a LOD score ranging from 2.53 to 3.55. A fourth male was assigned using its Δ value. Finally, all alleged sires were excluded from the paternity of the fifth offspring, probably due to the existence of an non-sampled male in the studied population.We concluded that the likelihood-based approach, included into CERVUS program, was a powerful tool in cattle kinship analysis when dealing with judicial dispute particularly when the dam's genotype was absent, allowing the assignments of paternity at 95% level of confidence in situations usually used by dairy and beef cattle producers in Argentine (e.g., multi-sire pasture mating).
Sudden Unexpected Death Due to a Brainstem Glioma in an Adult
Authors: Dolinak D , Matshes E , Waghray R
Published: May 2004

Sudden death due to undiagnosed central nervous system tumors is an uncommon, but well-described occurrence. Most of the tumors in these circumstances are supratentorial and occur in a wide spectrum of ages. Brainstem tumors are more rare and occur predominantly in the pediatric and adolescent populations. We present the case of a 48-year-old man who died suddenly and unexpectedly of a brainstem glioma. This case is unusual because of his age and the paucity of antecedent symptoms.
An Example of the Use of Forensic Palynology in Assessing an Alibi
Authors: Mildenhall DC
Published: May 2004

A man was found shot in the back on Mount Holdsworth in the Tararua Ranges north of Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand. Police investigations pinpointed one individual who had been seen in the area, knew, and had the means and motive to kill the victim. His alibi was that an eyewitness was mistaken as he never had been in the area and the jacket he was reported to have been wearing had been purchased in The Netherlands and brought to Wellington, where it never had left the city. Furthermore the distinctive board shorts that he was reported to have been wearing had been purchased in a small coastal New Zealand town after the victim had been murdered. Pollen of Nothofagus menziesii, a mountain plant, on the clothing suggested that the alibi was untrue and that the clothing had been in mountains in the vicinity of Mount Holdsworth or a similar mountain scene where Nothofagus menziesii was growing.
The Identification of 2-Phenoxyethanol in Ballpoint Inks Using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry—Relevance to Ink Dating
Authors: LaPorte GM , Wilson JD , Cantu AA , Mancke SA , Fortunato SL
Published: May 2004

Developing and implementing a generally accepted procedure for the dating of ink found on documents using dynamic approaches has been a very formidable undertaking by forensic document examiners. 2-Phenoxyethanol (PE), a common volatile organic compound found in ballpoint inks, has been recognized for over a decade as a solvent that evaporates as ink ages. More recently, investigations have focused on the solvent loss ratio of PE prior to and after heating. To determine how often PE occurs in ink formulations, the authors analyzed 633 ballpoint inks utilizing a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer. 2-Phenoxyethanol was identified in 85% (237/279) and 83% (293/354) of black and blue inks, respectively.
The Distribution of Sevoflurane in a Sevoflurane Induced Death
Authors: Burrows DL , Nicolaides A , Stephens GC , Ferslew KE
Published: May 2004

The distribution of sevoflurane (fluoromethyl 2,2,2,-trifluoro-1-(trifluoromethyl) ethyl ether) in blood, urine, liver, kidney, vitreous humor, and tracheal aspirate is presented from a subject with a sevoflurane induced death. Sevoflurane is a nonflammable general anesthetic administered by inhalation of vaporized liquid. Although general inhalation anesthetics have the potential to be fatal if not properly administered, the incidence of abuse is minute in comparison to other illicit drugs (1). Currently, there are no citations in the literature defining the body distribution of sevoflurane in a sevoflurane induced death. The decedent was found lying in a bed with an oxygen mask containing a gauze pad secured to his face. Three empty bottles and one partially full bottle of Ultane™ (sevoflurane) were found with the body in addition to two pill boxes containing a variety of prescription and non-prescription drugs. Serum, urine and gastric contents from the deceased were screened for numerous drugs and metabolites using a combination of thin layer chromatographic, colorimetric and immunoassay techniques. Analysis of biological specimens from the deceased revealed the presence of: amphetamine, caffeine, pseudoephedrine, nicotine, nicotine metabolite, and valproic acid. Sevoflurane concentrations were determined by headspace gas chromatography with flame ionization detection and revealed concentrations of 26.2 μg/mL in the blood, 105 μg/mL in the urine, 31.9 μg/mL in the tracheal aspirate, 86.7 μg/mL in the vitreous humor, 30.8 mg/kg in the liver, and 12.8 mg/kg in the kidney. The decedent had pathologies consistent with respiratory suppression including pulmonary atelectasis, pulmonary edema, and neck vein distention. The official cause of death was respiratory suppression by sevoflurane and the manner of death was unclear.
Death by Chainsaw: Fatal Kickback Injuries to the Neck
Authors: Koehler SA , Luckasevic TM , Rozin L , Shakir A , Ladham S , Omalu B , Dominick J , Wecht CH
Published: May 2004

Each year over 3 million new chainsaws are sold in the United States. The operation of these newer saws combined with the millions of older chainsaws in circulation results in over 28,000 chainsaw-related injures annually. The majority of the injuries involve the hands and lower extremities with less than 10% involving injuries to the head and neck regions. Deaths while operating a chainsaw are extremely rare. The most common hazards associated with chainsaws are injuries caused by kickback, pushback, and pull-in. Kickback is the most common and poses the greatest hazard. Kickback occurs when the rotating chain is stopped suddenly by contact with a more solid area throwing the saw rapidly backward toward the operator. The cause of most injuries can be traced to improper use of the saw or poor judgment on part of the operator. We present two fatal chainsaw deaths; one with an older style saw, and the other with a modern type. In both cases the victims died from fatal injuries received to the neck region from a chainsaw kickback. The first case involved a 49-year-old white male operating an older style chainsaw with limited safety features. The second case involved a 38-year old white male who was operating a newer model chainsaw equipped with a low kickback chain in an unsafe manner.
Crime Scene Ethics: Souvenirs, Teaching Material, and Artifacts
Authors: Rogers TL
Published: May 2004

Police and forensic specialists are ethically obliged to preserve the integrity of their investigations and their agencies' reputations. The American Academy of Forensic Sciences and the Canadian Society of Forensic Science provide no guidelines for crime scene ethics, or the retention of items from former crime scenes. Guidelines are necessary to define acceptable behavior relating to removing, keeping, or selling artifacts, souvenirs, or teaching specimens from former crime scenes, where such activities are not illegal, to prevent potential conflicts of interest and the appearance of impropriety.

Proposed guidelines permit the retention of objects with educational value, provided they are not of significance to the case, they are not removed until the scene is released, permission has been obtained from the property owner and police investigator, and the item has no significant monetary value. Permission is necessary even if objects appear discarded, or are not typically regarded as property, e.g., animal bones.
Remembering Walter C. McCrone—Scientist, Mentor, Leader and Friend
Authors: Reffner JA
Published: May 2004

Walter C. McCrone (1916-2002)was a special person. While books, journals and ledgers record over 400 of his technical contributions, his true legacy is his inspiration and leadership. In remembering “Doc” McCrone, we honor a man dedicated to people, to science and to education. His passion for microscopy was only exceeded by his love of science, people and teaching. While he ranked microscopy as the first step in every scientific investigation he made use of all technologies in formulating and testing hypotheses. Everyone who met Walter has a story to tell of this man's impact on his or her life; I will tell you mine.
Dr. Walter McCrone's Contributions to Microscopy Workshops and the Certification of Criminalists
Authors: Peterson JL
Published: May 2004

Walter McCrone was not only a remarkable forensic microscopist, but also a skilled grants man and devoted scientific professional. This article briefly recounts his activities in the1970s and 80s where he played a major role in securing grant funds to sponsor microscopy training around the country, and in using his considerable professional influence to advance the cause of certification.
Chitosan Membrane: Tool for Chromium (III) Recovery from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Pietrelli Loris , Xingrong Liu
Published: May 2004

In this study four kinds of Chitosan membranes were prepared. The permeability of the membranes was then investigated by permeation of K+ in these membranes. The performances of the prepared membranes for recovery of chromium (III) from aqueous solution were evaluated. The effects of operation conditions on permeation characteristics were determined, and permeation mechanism was discussed. The stability of the membranes was also studied.
A Nitric Oxide Biosensor Based on Horseradish Peroxidase/Kieselguhr Co‐Modified Pyrolytic Graphite Electrode
Authors: Shang Libin , Liu Xinjian , Fan Chunhai , Li Genxi
Published: May 2004

A reagentless nitric oxide (NO) biosensor was prepared using a pyrolytic graphite (PG) electrode modified with a composite film containing horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and kieselguhr. Noticeably, the electron‐transfer reactivity of HRP was significantly enhanced when incorporated in the inorganic kieselguhr material. Consequently, we observed the direct electrochemical response of HRP in this composite film, which would be otherwise electrochemically silent (in the absence of kieselguhr). Importantly, this modified electrode demonstrated nice catalytic activity, as well as high stability, towards the reduction of NO. The peak current related to NO was linearly proportional to its concentration from 2.0×10‐7 to 2.0×10‐5 mol/L, and the relative standard deviation was 4 % for five successive determinations at a NO concentration of 1.0×10‐5 mol/L. The critical level in concentration was estimated to be (4.0±0.3)×10‐8 mol/L.
Using Chlorine Dioxide for Drinking Water Disinfection by the Application of the Chlorite/Chlorine Process
Authors: Schmidt Wido
Published: May 2004

Chlorine dioxide stock solutions for the disinfection of drinking water are made by the application of chlorite/chlorine process in many waterworks. In such cases the stock solution is always characterised by a mixture of chlorine and chlorine dioxide.

The disinfection of waters of different origin with a mixture of chlorine dioxide and chlorine showed the formation of odours of different intensity. The reasons are the re‐formation of chlorine dioxide and the formation of odorous disinfection by‐products. Applying the chlorine dioxide for disinfection, its re‐formation caused by the reaction of chlorite with chlorine is the dominant reason of odour formation. When chlorine is used, the formation of odorous by‐products becomes more relevant. In order to quantify the sensitivity of water concerning odour, the odour indicator coefficient OI was defined.

The decreased demand of chlorine dioxide by applying chlorine and chlorine dioxide in combination is recognised to be the key in order to avoid the formation of odour after the disinfection of drinking water with chlorine dioxide.
Bestimmung polarer Phosphorsäureester in Trink‐ und Oberflächenwasser mittels HPLC‐MS‐MS
Authors: Ventker Michaela , Werres Friedrich , Balsaa Peter , Winterhalter Peter , Overath Horst
Published: May 2004

Die in der EU‐Wasserrahmenrichtlinie 2000/60/EG und der Gewässerschutzrichtlinie 76/464/EWG genannten 16 Phosphorsäureester aus dem Bereich der Insektizide und Akarizide werden den sogenannten prioritären Stoffen zugerechnet, für die strenge Qualitätsziele gelten. Häufig werden niedrige Maximalkonzentrationen von weniger als 0.1 μg/L gefordert. Mit dem in dieser Arbeit beschriebenen HPLC‐MS‐Verfahren können die meisten der in Frage kommenden Phosphorsäureester auch in Oberflächenwasser mit der geforderten Empfindlichkeit nachgewiesen werden. Die hohe Analysenempfindlichkeit wird sowohl durch die Festphasenextraktion (SPE) als auch durch die Injektion großer Volumina erreicht. Für einige Stoffe konnte auf die Probenvorbereitung sogar vollständig verzichtet werden und eine hinreichende Empfindlichkeit durch direkte Injektion der Wasserprobe erreicht werden.
Molecular basis of inherited antithrombin deficiency in Portuguese families: Identification of genetic alterations and screening for additional thrombotic risk factors
Authors: David Dezsö , Ribeiro Sofia , Ferrão Lénia , Gago Teresa , Crespo Francisco
Published: May 2004

Antithrombin (AT), the most important coagulation serine proteases inhibitor, plays an important role in maintaining the hemostatic balance. Inherited AT deficiency, mainly characterized by predisposition to recurrent venous thromboembolism, is transmitted in an autosomal dominant manner. In this study, we analyzed the underlying genetic alterations in 12 unrelated Portuguese thrombophilic families with AT deficiency. At the same time, the modulating effect of the FV Leiden mutation, PT 20210A, PAI‐1 4G, and MTHFR 677T allelic variants, on the thrombotic risk of AT deficient patients was also evaluated. Three novel frameshift alterations, a 4‐bp deletion in exon 4 and two 1‐bp insertions in exon 6, were identified in six unrelated type I AT deficient families. A novel missense mutation in exon 3a, which changes the highly conserved F147 residue, and a novel splice site mutation in the invariant acceptor AG dinucleotide of intron 2 were also identified in unrelated type I AT deficient families. In addition to these, two previously reported missense mutations changing the AT reactive site bond (R393–S394) and leading to type II‐RS deficiency, and a previously reported cryptic splice site mutation (IVS4–14G→A), were also identified. In these families, increased thrombotic risk associated with co‐inheritance of the FV Leiden mutation and of the PAI‐1 4G variant was also observed. In conclusion, we present the first data regarding the underlying genetic alterations in Portuguese thrombophilic families with AT deficiency, and confirm that the FV Leiden mutation and probably the PAI‐1 4G variant represent additional thrombotic risk factors in these families. Am. J. Hematol. 76:163–171, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Use of alveolar carbon monoxide to measure the effect of ribavirin on red blood cell survival†
Authors: Virtue Mark A. , Furne Julie K. , Ho Samuel B. , Levitt Michael D.
Published: May 2004

A major side effect of ribavirin (RBV) treatment is anemia. While this anemia is thought to result from increased RBC turnover, RBC survival has not been determined in subjects receiving RBV due to the complexity of the techniques commonly used to quantitate RBC life span. We recently described a simple, rapid, non‐invasive technique that utilizes measurements of alveolar carbon monoxide (CO) concentration to determine RBC survival. In the present report, this method was employed to assess RBC survival in patients receiving RBV for hepatitis C. Each of the 31 measurements of RBC survival in 12 subjects with RBV‐associated anemia was below the lower limit of normal (77 days), and the average survival (46 ± 14 days) in these subjects was only about 38% of that of healthy controls (122 ± 23 days). Five hepatitis C patients not undergoing RBV treatment had normal RBC survivals (112 ± 17 days). While the mean reticulocyte percentage was significantly elevated in subjects treated with RBV, 59% of these measurements fell within the limits of normal. We conclude that RBV‐associated anemia consistently is associated with reduced RBC survival as determined from breath CO measurements and that this reduced survival frequently is not associated with an elevated reticulocyte count. Am. J. Hematol. 76:107–113, 2004. Published 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The older sickle cell patient
Authors: McKerrell Thomas D.H. , Cohen Hillel W. , Billett Henny H.
Published: May 2004

The lifespan of sickle cell patients has increased substantially. We chose to compare the attributes of older sickle cell patients with younger ones within the confines of a single institutional study serving the local Bronx population. Laboratory and clinical assessments from 40 patients with sickle cell disease over 40 years of age were compared to 40 patients under 30 years of age. When the older group was compared to the younger group, hemoglobin, indirect bilirubin, and platelet counts were significantly lower. Creatinine clearances were lower and BUN levels were higher in the older group. Although the prevalence of radiographically measured cardiomegaly was significantly higher in the older group, systolic and diastolic blood pressures remained unchanged. The number of crises and number of admissions were higher in the younger group than in the older, but there was wide variation, and no significant differences could be detected; days spent in hospital over the previous 2 years did not differ. No statistically significant differences were observed for absolute reticulocyte count, MCV, % HbF, white cell count, liver function tests, or oxygen saturation. Comparing genders within age groups, younger males had higher hemoglobin levels and absolute reticulocyte counts than younger females, while only the older females had higher HbF levels than the corresponding males. Lower levels of hemoglobin associated with older age may reflect decreased hematopoietic potential that may in part be due to decreased renal function. Lower platelet counts in older sickle cell patients may be a consequence of this decreased hematopoietic potential but may also represent a secondary survival benefit effect in sickle cell anemia. Am. J. Hematol. 76:101–106, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Risk behaviors for pesticide exposure among pregnant women living in farmworker households in Salinas, California
Authors: Goldman Lisa , Eskenazi Brenda , Bradman Asa , Jewell Nicholas P.
Published: May 2004

Background

Farmworkers and their families are at risk for pesticide exposure, however, little is known about behaviors that increase their risk. We determined the frequency of risky behaviors among pregnant farmworkers and characterized those at greatest risk.

Methods

Participants included 153 pregnant farmworkers and 248 pregnant non‐farmworkers who resided with farmworkers from the CHAMACOS (Center for the Health Assessment of Mothers and Children of Salinas) study. We examined risky behaviors relating to handwashing, bathing, protective clothing, house cleaning, laundering of work clothes, wearing of work clothes and shoes into the home, and eating produce from the fields.

Results

Between 25 and 60% of women demonstrated risky behavior on each item. Practices of households with pregnant farmworkers and non‐farmworkers did not differ. Women who lived in the United States longer, and in crowded households demonstrated the most risky behavior overall.

Conclusions

Pregnant farmworkers and those living with farmworkers need to be educated to reduce potential take‐home pesticide exposure. Am. J. Ind. Med. 45:491–499, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Work‐attributed symptom clusters (darkroom disease) among radiographers versus physiotherapists: Associations between self‐reported exposures and psychosocial stressors
Authors: Tarlo Susan M. , Liss Gary M. , Greene Justina M. , Purdham Jim , McCaskell Lisa , Kipen Howard , Kerr Mickey
Published: May 2004

Background

“Darkroom disease” (DRD) has been used to describe unexplained multiple symptoms attributed by radiographers to their work environment. This study determines the prevalence of symptom clusters similar to other unexplained syndromes among (medical radiation technologists (MRTs) as compared with physiotherapists (PTs), and identifies associated work‐related (WR) factors.

Methods

A mail survey was undertaken of members of the professional associations of MRTs and PTs in Ontario, Canada. Questions were included to determine the prevalence and frequency of symptom clusters including abnormal tiredness as well as WR headaches, and symptoms suggestive of eye, nasal, and throat irritation. For the purpose of this study, these are considered to be DRD symptom clusters. Individuals with doctor‐diagnosed asthma were excluded from our analyses.

Results

Overall, 63.9% of MRTs and 63.1% of PTs participated. Criteria for DRD were met by 7.8% of 1,483 MRTs and 1.8% of 1,545 PTs [odds ratio, OR 4.8 (confidence interval, CI 3.1–7.5); (P < 0.0001)]. Both occupations showed significant associations between responses reflecting psychosocial stressors and DRD. Those with this symptom cluster were more likely to report additional symptoms than those without, and MRTs with DRD symptoms reported significantly more workplace chemical exposures.

Conclusions

Findings suggest excess symptoms consistent with DRD among MRTs versus PTs, and there were associations among those meeting our definition of DRD with self‐reported irritant exposures and psychosocial stressors. Am. J. Ind. Med. 45:513–521, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.