bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ethnographic Evaluation of Michigan's High‐Risk Hepatitis B Vaccination Program
Authors: Adams Inez F.
Published: February 2007

This paper discusses the evaluation of Michigan's High‐Risk Hepatitis B Vaccination Program using ethnographic methods. Ninety‐six face‐to‐face interviews were conducted in Family Planning, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Adolescent Health clinics throughout Michigan. The purpose of this evaluation was to determine why many Michigan residents who sought care at these clinics refused free hepatitis B vaccines and others failed to complete the vaccination series. Key reasons for refusal included lack of knowledge about hepatitis B, lack of knowledge about vaccines, and inconvenience. This paper explores how using ethnographic research methods—one—on—one interviews and participant—observation—captured data from this population that would likely have not been discovered using quantitative research methods.
Collective Memory and Nonpublic Opinion: A Historical Note on a Methodological Controversy About a Political Problem
Authors: Olick Jeffrey K.
Published: February 2007

This article describes a little‐known moment in the history of social research, the so‐called Group Experiment (Gruppenexperiment) conducted in Germany in 1950–51 by members of the reconstituted Frankfurt school. That research, I argue, provides a missing link in the history of the ideas of deliberative democracy and public discourse, areas of political theory in which the substantive legacies of pragmatism and interactionism are particularly significant. Most important, however, the Gruppenexperiment provides a model for rethinking certain methodological and conceptual problems plaguing contemporary research on collective memory, namely, the tendency to reify it.
Finely Orchestrated Movements: Evolution of the Ribosomal RNA Genes
Authors: Eickbush Thomas H , Eickbush Danna G
Published: February 2007

Evolution of the tandemly repeated ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes is intriguing because in each species all units within the array are highly uniform in sequence but that sequence differs between species. In this review we summarize the origins of the current models to explain this process of concerted evolution, emphasizing early studies of recombination in yeast and more recent studies in Drosophila and mammalian systems. These studies suggest that unequal crossover is the major driving force in the evolution of the rRNA genes with sister chromatid exchange occurring more often than exchange between homologs. Gene conversion is also believed to play a role; however, direct evidence for its involvement has not been obtained. Remarkably, concerted evolution is so well orchestrated that even transposable elements that insert into a large fraction of the rRNA genes appear to have little effect on the process. Finally, we summarize data that suggest that recombination in the rDNA locus of higher eukaryotes is sufficiently frequent to monitor changes within a few generations.
Modulations of Immune Functions and Oxidative Status Induced by Noise Stress
Authors: Zheng Kui‐Cheng , Ariizumi Makoto
Published: February 2007

Modulations of Immune Functions and Oxidative Status Induced by Noise Stress: Kui‐Cheng Zheng, et al. Department of Environmental and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus—Noise has long been realized as an environmental stress causing physiological, psychological and behavioral changes in humans. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of acute or chronic noise stress on both cellular and humoral immune responses and oxidative status. BALB/c mice were exposed to 90 dB (A) white noise 5 h per day for either 3 d or 4 wk. Hormone levels, splenic lymphocyte proliferation, lymphocyte subsets in spleen and thymus, serum antibody and oxidative status were determined. A 3‐d exposure to noise stress resulted in increased hormone levels, splenic lymphoproliferation and serum IgM. On the other hand, a 4‐wk exposure to noise stress caused a reduction of splenic lymphoproliferation, splenic CD4+ cells and serum IgG, but hormone levels and urinary 8‐hydroxy‐2'deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) were increased. These results imply that acute exposure to noise stress may enhance immune responses, whereas chronic exposure to noise stress may suppress both cellular and humoral immune functions. The effect of noise stress on immune functions may be related to neuroendocrine modulation and oxidative imbalance as well.
Effect of the Physical Activities in Leisure Time and Commuting to Work on Mental Health
Authors: Ohta Masanori , Mizoue Tetsuya , Mishima Norio , Ikeda Masaharu
Published: February 2007

Effect of the Physical Activities in Leisure Time and Commuting to Work on Mental Health: Masanori Ohta, et al. Department of Health Development, University of Occupational and Environmental Health—Although some evidence suggests that exercise may improve mental health status, information regarding the intensity and duration of exercise is incomplete. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the association between physical activities in both leisure time and commuting to work and mental health. A questionnaire survey was conducted at three municipal offices in Japan. A total of 670 men and women completed the questionnaire. Mental health status was assessed by the 28‐item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ). Respondents were asked about weekly hours of leisure‐time exercise for four levels of exercise, and the volume of exercise was assessed using a metabolic equivalent task index. Information about commuting to work on foot or by bicycle was also obtained. The mean GHQ scores were calculated according to physical activity levels using analysis of covariance with adjustment of potential confounders including job stress. In men, the GHQ score decreased steadily with increasing levels of leisure‐time exercise, and an inverse association was evident even for mild intensity exercise. Moreover, the GHQ score decreased according to increasing duration of time on commuting to work by either walking or cycling in men, but not in women. These relations did not materially change after adjustment for potential confounding factors. In women, there was no significant association between any of the indices of physical activity. In conclusion, leisure‐time exercise and walking or cycling during commuting to work may be associated with better mental health in men.
Some examples of recurrent Riemannian manifolds with semi-symmetric metric connection
Authors: Altay Sezgin , Özen Füsun
Published: February 2007

The purpose of this paper is to introduce recurrent manifolds with semi-symmetric metric connection and to establish some special examples for these manifolds.
On derivations of standard operator algebras and semisimple H *-algebras
Authors: Vukman Joso
Published: February 2007

In this paper we prove the following result. LetXbe a real or complex Banach space, letL(X) be the algebra of all bounded linear operators onX, and letA(X) ⊂L(X) be a standard operator algebra. Suppose we have a linear mappingD:A(X) →L(X) satisfying the relationD(A3) =D(A)A2+AD(A)A+A2D(A), for allA∈A(X). In this caseDis of the formD(A) =AB−BA, for allA∈A(X) and someB∈L(X). We apply this result, which generalizes a classical result of Chernoff, to semisimpleH*-algebras.
A strength model for no-slump concrete with fly ash
Authors: Tangtermsirikul S. , LeViet H.
Published: February 2007

The current paper presents a model for predicting compressive strength of no-slump concrete with and without fly ash by considering the effect of elevated curing temperature. The model was constructed based on the current authors' test results of compressive strength of no-slump concrete. Additionally, the influences of other parameters, such as mix proportion, chemical composition and physical properties of binders, were also taken into account. The model was established based on a relationship between gel/space ratio of paste and compressive strength development ratio of concrete. In the present study, the gel/space ratio concept for cement paste proposed by Powers and Brownyard in 1946 was adopted and extended for cement–fly-ash system application. The gel/space ratio was found to have a good correlation with compressive strength development ratio of concrete. The proposed model was calibrated and verified by the data obtained from the studies of the current authors and other researchers. The verification of the model showed satisfactory accuracy.
Geostatistical modelling (3D) of the stratigraphic unit surfaces of the Gulf of Lion western margin (Mediterranean Sea) based on seismic profiles
Authors: Chihi Hayet , Tesson Michel , Galli Alain , de Marsily Ghislain , Ravenne Christian
Published: February 2007

The purpose of this study is to build efficiently and automatically a three-dimensional geometric model of the stratigraphic units of the Gulf of Lion margin on the basis of geophysical investigations by a network of seismic profiles, using geostatistics. We want to show that geostatistics can produce unbiased maps of the morphology of submarine stratigraphic units, and furthermore that some specific features of these units can be found, that classical manual mapping may ignore. Depth charts of each surface identified by seismic profiling describe the geometry of these units. The geostatistical approach starts with a statistical analysis to determine the type and parameters of the variograms of the variable “depth” of each identified surface. The variograms of these surfaces show that they are mostly non-stationary. We therefore tried the following two non-stationary methods to map the desired surfaces : (i) the method of universal kriging in case the underlying variogram was directly accessible; (ii) the method of increments if the underlying variogram was not directly accessible. After having modelled the variograms of the increments and of the variable itself, we calculated the surfaces by kriging the variable “depth” on a small-mesh estimation grid.

The depth charts of each surface calculated with the geostatistical model are then interpreted in terms of their geological significance, which makes it possible to suggest hypotheses on the influence of major processes, such as tectonics and rivers (Rhône, Hérault, etc.) on the sedimentary structure of the gulf of Lion margin. The added value of geostatistics for this interpretation is emphasized. These unusual geostatistical methods are capable of being widely used in earth sciences for automatic mapping of “non-stationary” geometric surfaces, i.e. surfaces that possess a gradient or a trend developing systematically in space, such as piezometric or concentrations surfaces.
The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board: Reflections of a Former Board Member
Authors: Taylor Andrea Kidd
Published: February 2007

Through the eyes and experiences of a former board member, this article discusses the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB), its formation and development, its victories and accomplishments, and its challenges as a new and independent agency of the federal government in environmental and occupational health.
Assessing Grief and Bereavement: Observations from the Field
Authors: Michalski Marion J. , Vanderwerker Lauren C. , Prigerson Holly G.
Published: February 2007

The purpose of this article is to describe the evaluations involved in the Yale Bereavement Study (YBS), a three-year NIMH and NCI-funded longitudinal study conducted from January 2000 through May 2003. The quantitative and qualitative questions included in the YBS gave the respondents an opportunity to describe their most recent loss, rate and review their past losses, and assess all aspects of their current life situations. In this article, the first author describes, in a qualitative manner, the ways in which this assessment, per se, appeared helpful and not harmful to the respondents. Also, developed here is the implication for potential application of a modified version of the YBS which could be used in both research and clinical practice.
Downsizing and Social Cohesion: The Case of Downsizing Survivors
Authors: Campbell Richard , Pepper Lewis
Published: February 2007

Organizational downsizing was a pervasive feature of the U.S. economy during the 1980s and 1990s. A long-standing public health literature recognizes that unemployment and job loss may adversely affect health, but there has been little attention to date on the impact of downsizing upon those who survive job cuts and continue to work in downsized firms. Drawing on research with survivors of downsizing carried out by the U.S. Department of Energy, this article identifies a variety of social and psychological consequences of downsizing that fundamentally destabilize the work environment and work experience for remaining employees. Evidence from this research suggests that the work climate of the post-downsizing environment is laden with suspicion and conflict, and that survivors show feelings of demoralization, sadness, anxiety, and disorientation. A critical factor influencing these responses, we argue, is not downsizing—which is the exposure faced by those who lose their jobs—but the loss of social cohesion that downsizing ultimately represents to survivors. We conclude that addressing the trauma of downsizing for survivors will require providing employees with more genuine opportunities to participate in workplace governance.
Man as the Measure of All Things: A Limiting Approach to Urban Regeneration?
Authors: Hugentobler Margrit
Published: February 2007

Urban planning and change in the last century has been guided by concepts of Modernity rooted in the Age of Enlightenment that placed the needs of “rational man” at the core of human endeavors of all kinds. Yet, rather than leading to aesthetically beautiful cities characterized by sustainable resource utilization processes, the anthropocentric approach to urban and economic development has created global problems of depletion of natural resources, massive pollution and growing social imbalances within and between nation states. The widely heralded concept of (economically, environmentally, and socially) sustainable development has not yet produced a fundamental rethinking of our patterns of production and consumption. A multi-systems level framework with which to think about sustainable urban development and regeneration is outlined. It is based on an evolutionary perspective of systems and their emergent qualitatively different properties. A distinction between chemical/physical, biological, human/individual, social and cultural systems levels is made. Broadly framed guiding questions at each system's level are proposed as the basis for the development of sustainability criteria and indicators that can be tailored to any type of project in the planning or evaluation stage. A case study addressing the renewal of urban villages in the mega city of Guangzhou in Southern China illustrates the application potential of the framework to the challenge of urban regeneration.
Neurotoxicity of Persistent Organic Pollutants: Possible Mode(S) of Action and Further Considerations
Authors: Kodavanti Prasada Rao S.
Published: February 2007

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are long-lived toxic organic compounds and are of major concern for human and ecosystem health. Although the use of most POPs is banned in most countries, some organochlorine pesticides are still being used in several parts of the world. Although environmental levels of some POPs such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have declined, newly emerging POPs such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been increasing considerably. Exposure to POPs has been associated with a wide spectrum of effects including reproductive, developmental, immunologic, carcinogenic, and neurotoxic effects. It is of particular concern that neurotoxic effects of some POPs have been observed in humans at low environmental concentrations. This review focuses on PCBs as a representative chemical class of POPs and discusses the possible mode(s) of action for the neurotoxic effects with emphasis on comparing dose-response and structure-activity relationships (SAR) with other structurally related chemicals. There is sufficient epidemiological and experimental evidence showing that PCB exposure is associated with motor and cognitive deficits in humans and animal models. Although several potential mode(s) of actions were postulated for PCB-induced neurotoxic effects, changes in neurotransmitter systems, altered intracellular signalling processes, and thyroid hormone imbalance are predominant ones. These three potential mechanisms are discussed in detail in vitro and in vivo. In addition, SAR was conducted on other structurally similar chemicals to see if they have a common mode(s) of action. Relative potency factors for several of these POPs were calculated based on their effects on intracellular signalling processes. This is a comprehensive review comparing molecular effects at the cellular level to the neurotoxic effects seen in the whole animal for environmentally relevant POPs.
Induction of Oxidative Stress Responses by Dioxin and other Ligands of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor
Authors: Reichard John F. , Dalton Timothy P. , Shertzer Howard G. , Puga Alvaro
Published: February 2007

TCDD and other polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbon ligands of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) have been classically considered as non-genotoxic compounds because they fail to be directly mutagenic in either bacteria or most in vitro assay systems. They do so in spite of having repeatedly been linked to oxidative stress and to mutagenic and carcinogenic outcomes. Oxidative stress, on the other hand, has been used as a marker for the toxicity of dioxin and its congeners. We have focused this review on the connection between oxidative stress induction and the toxic effects of fetal and adult dioxin exposure, with emphasis on the large species difference in sensitivity to this agent. We examine the roles that the dioxin-inducible cytochromes P450s play in the cellular and toxicological consequences of dioxin exposure with emphasis on oxidative stress involvement. Many components of the health consequences resulting from dioxin exposure may be attributable to epigenetic mechanisms arising from prolonged reactive oxygen generation.
Analysis of Nonlinear Regression Models: A Cautionary Note
Authors: Peddada Shyamal D. , Haseman Joseph K.
Published: February 2007

Regression models are routinely used in many applied sciences for describing the relationship between a response variable and an independent variable. Statistical inferences on the regression parameters are often performed using the maximum likelihood estimators (MLE). In the case of nonlinear models the standard errors of MLE are often obtained by linearizing the nonlinear function around the true parameter and by appealing to large sample theory. In this article we demonstrate, through computer simulations, that the resulting asymptotic Wald confidence intervals cannot be trusted to achieve the desired confidence levels. Sometimes they could underestimate the true nominal level and are thus liberal. Hence one needs to be cautious in using the usual linearized standard errors of MLE and the associated confidence intervals.
Cell Proliferation, Reactive Oxygen and Cellular Glutathione
Authors: Day Regina M. , Suzuki Yuichiro J.
Published: February 2007

A variety of cellular activities, including metabolism, growth, and death, are regulated and modulated by the redox status of the environment. A biphasic effect has been demonstrated on cellular proliferation with reactive oxygen species (ROS)—especially hydrogen peroxide and superoxide—in which low levels (usually submicromolar concentrations) induce growth but higher concentrations (usually >10–30 micromolar) induce apoptosis or necrosis. This phenomenon has been demonstrated for primary, immortalized and transformed cell types. However, the mechanism of the proliferative response to low levels of ROS is not well understood. Much of the work examining the signal transduction by ROS, including H2O2, has been performed using doses in the lethal range. Although use of higher ROS doses have allowed the identification of important signal transduction pathways, these pathways may be activated by cells only in association with ROS-induced apoptosis and necrosis, and may not utilize the same pathways activated by lower doses of ROS associated with increased cell growth. Recent data has shown that low levels of exogenous H2O2 up-regulate intracellular glutathione and activate the DNA binding activity toward antioxidant response element. The modulation of the cellular redox environment, through the regulation of cellular glutathione levels, may be a part of the hormetic effect shown by ROS on cell growth.
Low-Let-Induced Radioprotective Mechanisms within a Stochastic Two-Stage Cancer Model
Authors: Schöllnberger H. , Stewart R. D. , Mitchel R. E. J.
Published: February 2007

A stochastic two-stage cancer model with clonal expansion was used to investigate the potential impact on human lung cancer incidence of some aspects of the hormesis mechanisms suggested by Feinendegen ( Health Phys. 52 663–669, 1987). The model was applied to low doses of low-LET radiation delivered at low dose rates. Non-linear responses arise in the model because radiologically induced adaptations in radical scavenging and DNA repair may reduce the biological consequences of DNA damage formed by endogenous processes and ionizing radiation. Sensitivity studies were conducted to identify critical model inputs and to help define the changes in cellular defense mechanisms necessary to produce a lifetime probability for lung cancer that deviates from a linear no-threshold (LNT) type of response. Our studies suggest that lung cancer risk predictions may be very sensitive to the induction of DNA damage by endogenous processes. For doses comparable to background radiation levels, endogenous DNA damage may account for as much as 50 to 80% of the predicted lung cancers. For an additional lifetime dose of 1 Gy from low-LET radiation, endogenous processes may still account for as much as 20% of the predicted cancers ( Fig. 2 ). When both repair and scavengers are considered as inducible, radiation must enhance DNA repair and radical scavenging in excess of 30 to 40% of the baseline values to produce lifetime probabilities for lung cancer outside the range expected for endogenous processes and background radiation.
Sparsely Ionizing Diagnostic and Natural Background Radiations are Likely Preventing Cancer and other Genomic-Instability-Associated Diseases
Authors: Scott Bobby R. , Di Palma Jennifer
Published: February 2007

Routine diagnostic X-rays (e.g., chest X-rays, mammograms, computed tomography scans) and routine diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures using sparsely ionizing radiation forms (e.g., beta and gamma radiations) stimulate the removal of precancerous neoplastically transformed and other genomically unstable cells from the body (medical radiation hormesis). The indicated radiation hormesis arises because radiation doses above an individual-specific stochastic threshold activate a system of cooperative protective processes that include high-fidelity DNA repair/apoptosis (presumed p53 related), an auxiliary apoptosis process (PAM process) that is presumed p53-independent, and stimulated immunity. These forms of induced protection are called adapted protection because they are associated with the radiation adaptive response. Diagnostic X-ray sources, other sources of sparsely ionizing radiation used in nuclear medicine diagnostic procedures, as well as radioisotope-labeled immunoglobulins could be used in conjunction with apoptosis-sensitizing agents (e.g., the natural phenolic compound resveratrol) in curing existing cancer via low-dose fractionated or low-dose, low-dose-rate therapy (therapeutic radiation hormesis). Evidence is provided to support the existence of both therapeutic (curing existing cancer) and medical (cancer prevention) radiation hormesis. Evidence is also provided demonstrating that exposure to environmental sparsely ionizing radiations, such as gamma rays, protect from cancer occurrence and the occurrence of other diseases via inducing adapted protection (environmental radiation hormesis).
The Therapeutic use of Radon: A Biomedical Treatment in Europe; An “Alternative” Remedy in the United States
Authors: Erickson Barbra E.
Published: February 2007

There is a growing recognition in the United States and Europe that health care is driven to a significant extent by an emphasis on consumer choice and demand. As consumers, people regularly choose their own solutions for health promotion and maintenance, solutions which may or may not be sanctioned by mainstream medicine. Radioactive radon therapy exemplifies a non-sanctioned treatment eagerly sought by certain patients, but scorned or dismissed by many physicians. This is certainly the case in the United States, where well-publicized Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warnings portray radon as a potential carcinogen. Between 1997 and 2001, I worked with a population of arthritis sufferers who expose themselves to radon gas in Montana radon health mines in order to alleviate their symptoms. In this paper I discuss the decision-making process involved in using radon, and compare the Montana radon health mine facilities with selected radon mines and spas in Europe.
Radiological Emergency Response: The National Biological Dosimetry Response Plan
Authors: Dolling J. A. , Boreham D. R.
Published: February 2007

This presentation will discuss new developments in emergency biological dosimetry and the CRTI (CBRN Research and Technology Initiative) National Biological Dosimetry Response Plan (NBDRP). Biological dosimetry is a technique used to estimate the biological consequences of a radiation exposure and is largely based on chromosome aberration detection. The NBDRP will establish a national network of laboratories to respond to a nuclear event for the purposes of rapid radiation dose estimation for crisis management and for long-term health risk assessment. In the event of a large-scale radiation accident or deliberate act of terrorism this will help guide the actions of emergency officials, emergency responders and health care personnel by providing timely biological dose estimates. The presentation will outline the research initiatives to develop modern techniques used for biological dosimetry. The overall purpose of this presentation is to provide the audience with a brief introduction to radiobiology, radiation-induced DNA damage, the health risks associated with radiation exposure, and the latest cytogenetic techniques used to estimate the risk.
Spectral encoding on Gold Nanorods Doped in a Silica Sol–Gel Matrix and Its Application to High‐Density Optical Data Storage
Authors: Chon J. W. M. , Bullen C. , Zijlstra P. , Gu M.
Published: February 2007

Metallic nanorods exhibit fascinating optical properties due to surface plasmons—collective oscillation of the electron cloud within a particle. They exhibit two principle absorption bands that correspond to surface plasmon resonance (SPR) along the longitudinal and transverse directions of the nanorod. Most importantly, the longitudinal band can be tuned with the aspect ratio of the rod, making it a spectrally tuneable optical material, which can be applied to a variety of devices from bioimaging to high‐density optical storage. Here, spectral encoding for high‐density optical storage applications is demonstrated on two sizes of gold nanorods (aspect ratios of three and five) doped in a silica sol–gel matrix by femtosecond pulsed laser irradiation. It is widely known that high‐power pulsed laser irradiation causes metal nanorods to undergo shape transformations via the process of melting or fragmentation. The process is enhanced if the laser wavelength is tuned at the longitudinal surface plasmon resonance peak of the nanorods, which results in a significant reduction or shift in the surface plasmon resonance peak. As such a shape change occurs only on the subpopulation of rods that have a longitudinal plasmon band matching the laser wavelength, a size‐ or spectrum‐selective shape transition is possible in a rod mixture with varying aspect ratios. The current spectral encoding technology can be incorporated into existing optical disc technology, such as three‐dimensional bit‐by‐bit and holographic, and can increase the capacity limit by utilizing the spectral domain.
Cover Picture: A Hierarchically Structured Ni(OH)2 Monolayer Hollow‐Sphere Array and Its Tunable Optical Properties over a Large Region (Adv. Funct. Mater. 4/2007)
Authors: Duan G. , Cai W. , Luo Y. , Sun F.
Published: February 2007

The fabrication of hierarchically structured Ni(OH)2 monolayer hollow‐sphere arrays with the shell composed of building blocks of nanoflakelets is reported on p. 644 by Weiping Cai and co‐workers. The morphology can be easily controlled by the synthesis parameters, and the arrays show a tunable optical transmission stop band. Tuning can be achieved by changing the size or morphology of the hollow spheres. Such arrays may have potential applications in optical devices, photonic crystals, and as sensors for gas detection.

The fabrication of a hierarchically structured Ni(OH)2 monolayer hollow‐sphere array with the shell composed of building blocks of nanoflakelets is demonstrated based on a colloidal monolayer and electrochemical deposition. The morphology can be easily controlled by the colloidal monolayer and deposition parameters. Importantly, such monolayer hollow‐sphere array shows a morphology‐ and size‐dependent tunable optical transmission stop band. This stop band can be easily tuned from 455–1855 nm by changing the size of the hollow spheres between 1000 and 4500 nm, and also fine‐adjusted by changing the deposition time. The array exhibits a nearly incident‐angle‐independent position of the stop band that 3D photonic crystals do not possess. This structure may have potential applications in optical devices, photonic crystals, and sensors for gas detection.
Genetic information: Special or not? Responses from focus groups with members of a health maintenance organization
Authors: Diergaarde Brenda , Bowen Deborah J. , Ludman Evette J. , Culver Julie O. , Press Nancy , Burke Wylie
Published: February 2007

Genetic information is used increasingly in health care. Some experts have argued that genetic information is qualitatively different from other medical information and, therefore, raises unique social issues. This view, called “genetic exceptionalism,” has importantly influenced recent policy efforts. Others have argued that genetic information is like other medical information and that treating it differently may actually result in unintended disparities. Little is known about how the general public views genetic information. To identify opinions about implications of genetic and other medical information among the general population, we conducted a series of focus groups in Seattle, WA. Participants were women and men between ages 18 and 74, living within 30 miles of Seattle and members of the Group Health Cooperative. A structured discussion guide was used to ensure coverage of all predetermined topics. Sessions lasted approximately 2 hr; were audio taped and transcribed. The transcripts formed the basis of the current analysis. Key findings included the theme that genetic information was much like other medical information and that all sensitive medical information should be well protected. Personal choice (i.e., the right to choose whether to know health risk information and to control who else knows) was reported to be of crucial importance. Participants had an understanding of the tensions involved in protecting privacy versus sharing medical information to help another person. These data may guide future research and policy concerning the use and protection of medical information, including genetic information. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Titelbild: Asymmetrische organokatalytische Dominoreaktionen (Angew. Chem. 10/2007)
Authors: Enders Dieter , Grondal Christoph , Hüttl Matthias R. M.
Published: February 2007

Mit dem richtigen Anstoß (Katalysator) wird die Dominoreaktion in Gang gesetzt, und wie Dominosteine der Reihe nach umfallen, so reagieren die Ausgangsverbindungen nacheinander unter denselben Reaktionsbedingungen und ergeben auf diese Weise das gewünschte Produkt. So lassen sich oftmals aus einfachen Vorstufen komplexe Strukturen aufbauen, wie es im Kurzaufsatz über asymmetrische organokatalytische Dominoreaktionen von Enders et al. auf S. 1590 ff. beschrieben ist.
Cover Picture: Asymmetric Organocatalytic Domino Reactions (Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 10/2007)
Authors: Enders Dieter , Grondal Christoph , Hüttl Matthias R. M.
Published: February 2007

A gentle nudge is all it takes to set off a line of dominoes, and the same principle applies to domino reactions with a suitable catalyst as initiator. Just as dominoes fall down sequentially, the intermediate compounds in a domino reaction react successively under the same reaction conditions to give the desired product. Thus, complex structures can often be constructed from simple precursors, as D. Enders et al. describe in their Minireview on page 1570 ff. on asymmetric organocatalytic domino reactions.
Non Platinum Metal Complexes as Anti‐cancer Drugs
Authors: Ott Ingo , Gust Ronald
Published: February 2007

The development of metal complexes with platinum central atoms such as cisplatin or carboplatin had an enormous impact on current cancer chemotherapy. However, the spectrum of cancers that can be treated with platinum agents is narrow and treatment efficacy suffers from side effects and resistance phenomena. These unresolved problems in platinum‐based anti‐cancer therapy have stimulated increased research efforts in the search for novel non platinum‐containing metal species as cytostatic agents. Preclinical and clinical investigations showed that the development of new metal agents with modes of action different from cisplatin is possible. Thus, complexes with iron, cobalt, or gold central atoms have shown promising results in preclinical studies and compounds with titanium, ruthenium, or gallium central atoms have already been evaluated in phase I and phase II trials. This review covers some relevant examples of preclinical and clinical research on novel non platinum metal complexes.
Synthesis and In Vitro Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Novel Naphthindolizinedione Derivatives
Authors: Defant Andrea , Guella Graziano , Mancini Ines
Published: February 2007

Novel 6,11‐dioxo‐6,11‐dihydro‐benzo[f]pyrido[1,2‐a]indole‐12‐carboxamide derivatives and the corresponding 7,10‐dihydroxy analogues were designed in accordance with Moore's and Pindur's theory and synthesized based on the structural similarity with known antitumour agents such as ellipticine, daunorubicin, mitoxantrone and 9‐aminoacridine‐4 carboxamide derivatives. These compounds, including structural variations of the amide side chain, were evaluated in the NCI panel of human tumour cell lines, from which 6,11‐dioxo‐6,11‐dihydro‐benzo[f]pyrido[1,2‐a]indole‐(2‐dimethylamino‐ethyl)‐12‐carboxamide 11a was found to be the most potent agent within the series. It showed good selectivity towards leukaemia, colon and renal cancer cell lines, with significant GI50 values, from lower than 10 nM to 0.2 μM. Moreover, its cytotoxicity against the adriamicine‐resistant breast tumour cell line at a concentration lower than 1 μM turned out to be higher than the values using the clinical anticancer agents, daunorubicin and mitoxantrone.
Synthesis and Antioxidant Properties of Novel N‐H and N‐Substituted Propanamide Derivatives
Authors: Ölgen Süreyya , Kılıç Zuhal , Ada Ahmet O. , Çoban Tülay
Published: February 2007

The interest in the application of antioxidants for medical treatment has been growing recently. A lot of evidence has proven the link between the development of human diseases and oxidative stress. Indole derivatives were found to be very effective in protecting against oxidative stress. Recent exciting findings have demonstrated that several indole derivatives (IDs) are strong inhibitors of superoxide anion (SOD) and lipid peroxidation (LP). In this study, a series of novel N‐H and N‐substituted indole‐3‐propanamide derivatives (I3PADs) have been prepared and their efficiencies were investigated towards SOD and LP. Among the synthesized I3PADs, compounds 5 and 7‐12 significantly inhibited O2∗︁– in the range of 94–100%. In addition, N‐H I3PADs showed a stronger inhibitory effect (compounds 1–5, 56–83%) on lipid peroxidation levels than SOD.
Randomized clinical trial of surgical technique and local antibiotics for ingrowing toenail
Authors: Bos A M C , van Tilburg M W A , van Sorge A A , Klinkenbijl J H G
Published: February 2007

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate different surgical techniques for treating ingrowing toenails (IGTNs) and to determine the value of a locally applied antibiotic after intervention.

Methods

One hundred and twenty-three patients with IGTN were assigned randomly to one of four groups. All patients had partial nail avulsion. This was combined with excision of the matrix or application of phenol, with or without local application of gentamicin afterwards. All procedures were performed by one physician. The primary outcome measure was symptomatic recurrence of IGTN.

Results

One hundred and seventeen patients were available for follow-up. Phenol gave significantly better results than matrix excision with respect to recurrence (including regrowth and spike formation) after 1 year (P < 0·001). In terms of signs of infection, there was no significant difference between phenol and matrix excision after 2 days (P = 0·224) or 1 week (P = 0·501). Antibiotics had no effect in reducing the risk of infection after 2 days (P = 0·989) or 1 week (P = 0·676), or in reducing the rate of recurrent IGTN at 1 year (P = 0·187). If regrowth or spike formation is included, the effect is even less significant (P = 0·876).

Conclusion

Partial nail avulsion with phenolization gave better results than partial avulsion with matrix excision. Local antibiotics did not reduce signs of infection or recurrence. Use of phenol did not produce more signs of infection than matrix excision.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of standard and extended lymphadenectomy in pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic cancer
Authors: Michalski C W , Kleeff J , Wente M N , Diener M K , Büchler M W , Friess H
Published: February 2007

Background

Although some retrospective studies of extended radical lymphadenectomy for pancreatic cancer have suggested a survival advantage, this is controversial.

Methods

A literature search identified randomized controlled trials comparing extended with standard lymphadenectomy in pancreatic cancer surgery. Overall survival was analysed using hazard ratios and standard errors. Pooled estimates of overall treatment effects were calculated using a random effects model (odds ratio and 95 per cent confidence interval).

Results

Of four randomized trials identified for systematic review, three were included in a meta-analysis of survival. The log hazard ratios (standard errors) for survival for the three trials were 0·36 (0·22), − 0·15 (0·17) and − 0·21 (0·15); the weighted mean log hazard ratio for survival overall was 0·93 (95 per cent confidence interval 0·77 to 1·13), revealing no significant differences between the standard and extended procedure (P = 0·480). Morbidity and mortality rates were also comparable, with a trend towards higher rates of delayed gastric emptying for extended lymphadenectomy. The number of resected lymph nodes was significantly higher in the extended lymphadenectomy groups (P < 0·001).

Conclusion

The extended procedure does not benefit overall survival, and there may even be a trend towards increased morbidity. Therefore extended lymphadenectomy should be performed only within adequately powered controlled trials, if at all.
Randomized clinical trial evaluating the need for routine nasogastric decompression after elective hepatic resection
Authors: Pessaux P , Regimbeau J-M , Dondéro F , Plasse M , Mantz J , Belghiti J
Published: February 2007

Background

The value of routine nasogastric tube (NGT) decompression after elective hepatic resection has not been investigated.

Methods

Of 200 patients who had elective hepatic resection, including 68 who had previously had colorectal surgery, 100 were randomized to NGT decompression, where the NGT was left in place after surgery until the passage of flatus or stool, and 100 to no decompression, where the NGT was removed at the end of the operation.

Results

There was no difference between patients who had NGT decompression and those who did not in terms of overall surgical complications (15·0 versus 19·0 per cent respectively; P = 0·451) medical morbidity (61·0 versus 55·0 per cent; P = 0·391), in-hospital mortality (3·0 versus 2·0 per cent; P = 0·640), duration of ileus (mean(s.d.) 4·3(1·5) versus 4·5(1·7) days; P = 0·400) or length of hospital stay (14·2(8·5) versus 15·8(10·8) days; P = 0·220). Twelve patients randomized to no NGT decompression required reinsertion of the tube 3·9(1·9) days after surgery. Previous abdominal surgery had no influence on the need for NGT reinsertion. Severe discomfort was recorded in 21 patients in the NGT group and premature removal of the tube was required in 19. Pneumonia (13·0 versus 5·0 per cent; P = 0·047) and atelectasis (81 versus 67 per cent; P = 0·043) were significantly more common in the NGT group.

Conclusion

Routine NGT decompression after elective hepatectomy had no advantages. Its use was associated with an increased risk of pulmonary complications.
Neoadjuvant therapy for pancreatic cancer
Authors: Kleeff J , Friess H , Büchler M W
Published: February 2007

No good evidence of benefit—trials needed
Tailoring treatments for curable gastric cancer
Authors: Sano T
Published: February 2007

A key role for surgeons
Response from authors: A 10-year review of surgery for desmoid disease associated with familial adenomatous polyposis (Br J Surg 2006; 93: 1258–1264)
Authors: Latchford A R , Phillips R K S
Published: February 2007

No Abstract.
Reversible Transformation of ZnII Coordination Geometry in a Single Crystal of Porous Metal‐Organic Framework [Zn3(ntb)2(EtOH)2]⋅4 EtOH
Authors: Suh Myunghyun Paik , Cheon Young Eun , Lee Eun Young
Published: February 2007

A 3D porous metal‐organic framework [Zn3(ntb)2(EtOH)2]n⋅4nEtOH (1) that generates 1D channels of honeycomb aperture has been prepared by the solvothermal reaction of Zn(NO3)2⋅6 H2O and 4,4′,4′′‐nitrilotrisbenzoic acid (H3NTB) in EtOH at 110 °C. Framework 1 exhibits reversible single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal transformations upon removal and rebinding of the coordinating EtOH as well as the EtOH guest molecules, which give rise to desolvated crystal [Zn3(ntb)2]n (1′) and resolvated crystal [Zn3(ntb)2(EtOH)2]n⋅4nEtOH (1′′). The X‐ray structures indicate that 3D host framework is retained during the transformations from 1 to 1′ and from 1′ to 1′′, but the coordination geometry of ZnII ions changes from/to trigonal bipyramid to/from tetrahedron, concomitant with the rotational rearrangement of a carboxylate plane of the NTB3− relative to its associated phenyl ring. To retain the single crystal integrity, extensive cooperative motions must exist between the molecular components throughout the crystal. Framework 1′ exhibits permanent porosity, thermal stability up to 400 °C, and blue luminescence, and high storage capabilities for N2, H2, CO2, and CH4.
High‐Resolution Solid‐State NMR Structure of an Anticancer Agent
Authors: Lange Adam , Schupp Thomas , Petersen Frank , Carlomagno Teresa , Baldus Marc
Published: February 2007

We demonstrate that solid‐state NMR methods can be used to rapidly determine the high‐resolution 3D structure of Epothilone B in the polycrystalline state. The solid‐state NMR structures exhibit an average heavy atom RMSD to the mean structure of 0.14 Å. The 3D‐structural analysis leads to stereospecific assignments and provides insight into the influence of intermolecular interactions upon ssNMR chemical‐shift parameters. Our results pave the way to the study of ligand–microtubule interactions in a noncrystalline and insoluble environment at atomic level.
Fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy for acoustic neuroma
Authors: Koh Eng‐Siew , Millar Barbara‐Ann , Ménard Cynthia , Michaels Howard , Heydarian Mostafa , Ladak Shenaz , McKinnon Sharon , Rutka John A. , Guha Abhijit , Pond Gregory R. , Laperriere Normand J.
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND.

The clinical outcome and toxicity of fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (FSRT) was assessed for acoustic neuroma in 60 patients treated in a single institution.

METHODS.

Between October 1996 and February 2005, 60 patients received FSRT for acoustic neuroma (AN). The mean total dose applied was 50 Gy in single daily 2‐Gy fractions over 5 weeks. The median irradiated tumor volume was 4.9 cm3 (range, 0.3–49.0 cm3). The median follow‐up period was 31.9 months.

RESULTS.

FSRT was well tolerated in all patients. The 5‐year actuarial local control rate was 96.2% (95% CI: 91.1%–100.0%). Five‐year actuarial progression‐free survival was 92.8% (95% CI: 84.8%–100.0%). The overall hearing preservation rate was 77.3%. Five of 6 patients with initial cranial nerve V (CNV) numbness remained stable post‐FSRT. Two of 3 patients with baseline trigeminal neuralgia improved with the remaining patient stable. All 3 patients with nonsurgically related facial nerve weakness either improved or achieved stability in function. There were no cases of new cranial nerve toxicity post‐FSRT.

CONCLUSIONS.

FSRT for the treatment of AN is safe, effective, and well tolerated. FSRT should thus be considered as an effective alternative treatment modality when compared with microsurgical resection or single fraction stereotactic radiosurgery. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
A Novel ATR‐FTIR Approach for Characterisation and Identification of Ex Situ Immobilised Species
Authors: Andersson Per Ola , Lundquist Margaretha , Tegler Lotta , Börjegren Susanne , Baltzer Lars , Österlund Lars
Published: February 2007

We demonstrate a novel method to analyse ex situ prepared protein chips by attenuated total reflection Fourier IR spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR), which circumvents tedious functionalisation steps of internal reflection elements (IREs), and simultaneously allows for complementary measurements by other analytical techniques. This concept is proven by utilising immobilised metal affinity capture (IMAC™) chips containing about 10 μm thick films of copolymers coated with nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) groups, which originally was manufactured for surface enhanced laser desorption ionisation (SELDI) spectrometry. Three immobilisation steps were analysed by ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy: 1) NTA complexation with nickel(II) ions 2) binding of two histidine (His)‐tagged synthetic peptides of 25 (25‐His6) and 48 (48‐His6) amino acids to the NTA‐groups and 3) attachment of a ligand, mesyl amide, to the surface‐bound 48‐His6. Despite interference from H2O, both amide I and II were well resolved. Utilising peptide adsorption in the thick copolymer matrix yields a high saturation peptide concentration of ≈100 mg mL−1 and a dissociation constant of 116±11 μM, as determined by a detailed analysis of the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The mesyl amide ligand was directly seen in the raw ATR‐FTIR spectrum with specific peaks in the fingerprint region at 1172 and 1350 cm−1. Several aspects of the fine structure of the amide I band of the peptide were analysed: influences from secondary structure, amino side chains and competing contamination product. We believe that this approach has great potential as a stand‐alone or complementary analytical tool for determination of the chemical composition of functionalised surfaces. We emphasise further that with this approach no chemical treatment of IREs is needed; the chips can be regenerated and reused, and applied in other experimental set‐ups.