bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why does Sally never Call Bobby `I'?
Authors: Boesch Ernest E.
Published: October 2003

Coelho and Figueiredo (2003) raise the issue of intersubjectivity. I propose to consider the problem from an action-theoretical and constructivist perspective that in some ways agrees, in others contradicts, the theses of the authors. The view I present is based on various publications on the `I'-Other problem since 1975. The centrality of the person's `I', as the overarching locus of action control and regulation, is re-claimed. By the same token, the role of society is re-defined, society being too heterogeneous, too contradictory, to influence directly the formation of the `I'; social impacts have to be filtered, selected, evaluated and assimilated by individual `I's, and thus the `social other' is itself personally constructed.
Reduction in injury rates in nursing personnel through introduction of mechanical lifts in the workplace
Authors: Evanoff B. , Wolf L. , Aton E. , Canos J. , Collins James
Published: October 2003

Background

Health care workers incur frequent injuries resulting from patient transfer and handling tasks. Few studies have evaluated the effectiveness of mechanical lifts in preventing injuries and time loss due to these injuries.

Methods

We examined injury and lost workday rates before and after the introduction of mechanical lifts in acute care hospitals and long‐term care (LTC) facilities, and surveyed workers regarding lift use.

Results

The post‐intervention period showed decreased rates of musculoskeletal injuries (RR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.68–1.00), lost workday injuries (RR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.41–0.78), and total lost days due to injury (RR = 0.42). Larger reductions were seen in LTC facilities than in hospitals. Self‐reported frequency of lift use by registered nurses and by nursing aides were higher in the LTC facilities than in acute care hospitals. Observed reductions in injury and lost day injury rates were greater on nursing units that reported greater use of the lifts.

Conclusions

Impglementation of patient lifts can be effective in reducing occupational musculoskeletal injuries to nursing personnel in both LTC and acute care settings. Strategies to facilitate greater use of mechanical lifting devices should be explored, as further reductions in injuries may be possible with increased use. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:451–457, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Exposing the “Myth” of ABC, “Anything But Chrysotile”: A critique of the Canadian asbestos mining industry and McGill University chrysotile studies
Authors: Egilman David , Fehnel Corey , Bohme Susanna Rankin
Published: October 2003

Background

Beginning in the 1930s, the Canadian asbestos industry created and advanced the idea that chrysotile asbestos is safer than asbestos of other fiber types.

Methods

We critically evaluate published and unpublished studies funded by the Quebec Asbestos Mining Association (QAMA) and performed by researchers at McGill University.

Results

QAMA‐funded researchers put forth several myths purporting that Quebec‐mined chrysotile was harmless, and contended that the contamination of chrysotile with oils, tremolite, or crocidolite was the source of occupational health risk. In addition, QAMA‐funded researchers manipulated data and used unsound sampling and analysis techniques to back up their contention that chrysotile was “essentially innocuous.”

Conclusions

These studies were used to promote the marketing and sales of asbestos, and have had a substantial effect on policy and occupational health litigation. Asbestos manufacturing companies and the Canadian government continue to use them to promote the use of asbestos in Europe and in developing countries. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:540–557, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Downsizing and health at the United States Department of Energy
Authors: Pepper Lewis , Messinger Miriam , Weinberg Janice , Campbell Richard
Published: October 2003

Background

Downsizing and reorganization not only affect workers who lose their jobs, but even workers who retain their jobs are affected in negative ways. The present study measured how downsizing was accomplished at five Department of Energy facilities by evaluating communication with workers, perceived fairness of the process, and job characteristics, and how each of these were associated with worker health and well‐being.

Methods

The researchers collected quantitative data using structured surveys, and captured qualitative data using interviews, focus groups, and open‐ended survey responses.

Results

Employees, who felt that the downsizing process was fair, and that communication was open and honest, reported fewer medical symptoms, lower survivor syndrome, and more job security than their counterparts. Employees who were less immediately impacted by downsizing reported fewer medical symptoms than those who were more directly involved (e.g., delivered layoff notices, changed jobs, etc.) Thus, downsizing appears to affect the health of survivors, through the effects of the downsizing process.

Conclusion

This examination of the effect of downsizing on the physical and mental health of surviving employees supports the conclusion that the impact of downsizing is not limited to those who lose their jobs and highlights the potential repercussions of downsizing on the emotional health of employees. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:481–491, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fatal injuries to teenage construction workers in the US
Authors: Suruda Anthony , Philips Peter , Lillquist Dean , Sesek Richard
Published: October 2003

Background

The construction industry is second only to agriculture in the annual number of fatal injuries in workers less than 18 years of age. We examined fatal injury reports for youth and adult workers to determine risk factors for injury and applicability of existing child labor regulations.

Methods

The US Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) investigation data for fatal work injuries from 1984 through 1998 were reviewed with respect to type of event, employer characteristics, and apparent violations of existing child labor laws under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). We also examined whether the employer met exemption criteria for federal enforcement of child labor or OSHA regulations.

Results

The fatality rate for teenage construction workers age 19 and younger was 12.1 per 100,000 per year, slightly less than for adult workers. Teenage workers who were fatally injured were more likely than adults to have been employed at non‐union construction firms (odds ratio (OR) = 4.96, P < 0.05), firms with fewer than 11 employees (OR = 1.72, P < 0.05), and their employers were more likely to have been cited by OSHA for safety violations (OR = 1.66, P < 0.05) than for firms which were investigated because of a fatality in an adult worker. Fatalities in teenagers were more likely to occur in special construction trades such as roofing. Among fatalities in workers less than 18 years of age, approximately one‐half (49%) of the 76 fatal injuries were in apparent violation of existing child labor regulations. We estimated that in 41 of the 76 cases (54%) the employer's gross annual income exceeded the $500,000 threshold for federal enforcement of child labor laws. Only 28 of 76 cases (37%) were at construction firms with 11 or more employees, which are subject to routine OSHA inspections.

Conclusions

Fatal injuries in teenage construction workers differed from those in adults in that they were more likely to be at small, non‐union firms of which a substantial proportion were exempt from federal enforcement of child labor laws and from routine OSHA inspections. Safety programs for young construction workers should include small, non‐union construction firms and those in special construction trades such as roofing. We did not identify specific areas for new regulation but the number of fatalities reviewed was small. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:510–514, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Novel diterpenoids and hydrocarbons in the Dufour gland of the ectoparasitoid Habrobracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)
Authors: Howard Ralph W. , Baker James E. , Morgan E. David
Published: October 2003

Chemical constituents contained in the Dufour gland of the ectoparasitoid Habrobracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) were characterized. Three terpenes, β‐springene, a homo‐β‐springene, and a homo‐geranyllinalool constitute approximately 37% of the gland components, with the remaining 63% all being hydrocarbons. The hydrocarbons consist of a homologous series of n‐alkanes (n‐C21 to n‐C31), a trace amount of 3‐methyl C23, a homologous series of internally methyl‐branched alkanes (11‐methyl C23 to 13‐methyl C35), one dimethylalkane (13,17‐dimethyl C33), a homologous series of monoenes (C25:1 to C37:1) with the double bonds located at Δ9, Δ13 and Δ15 for alkenes of carbon number 25 to 31 and at Δ13 and Δ15 for carbon numbers 33 to 37 and three homologous dienes in very low amounts with carbon numbers of 31, 32, and 33. The terpenoid and hydrocarbon composition of the Dufour gland was similar in virgin and mated females. However, in contrast to the hydrocarbons, the amount of β‐springene and homo‐geranyllinalool increased significantly with time after adult emergence from the cocoon. Although many hydrocarbons in the Dufour gland are the same as those on the cuticle of this species [Howard and Baker, Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 53:1–18 (2003)], substantial differences also occur. Of particular note is the chain length of alkenes and location of the double bonds: cuticular alkenes have a chain length of C23 to C29 and double bond locations at Δ5, Δ7, and Δ9, whereas the Dufour gland alkenes contains a greater range of carbon numbers and have no Δ5 or Δ7 alkenes. The Dufour gland contains only one of the long‐chain dimethylalkanes found on the cuticle. Also, no terpenoids are found on the cuticle, and the Dufour gland contains none of the secondary wax esters that are major components on the cuticle. GC‐MS analysis of lipids carried in the hemolymph of H. hebetor indicated that all hydrocarbons found on both the cuticle and in the Dufour gland are present, as are some of the wax esters. However, none of the terpenoids were detected in the hemolymph. This suggests that the hydrocarbons are synthesized in other tissues or cells, probably by oenocytes, and differentially partitioned between the cuticle and the Dufour gland. The terpenoids are most likely synthesized within the Dufour gland. Analysis of surface lipids from eggs laid within 18 h indicated that no diterpenoids were present. Rather, the lipids present on the eggs were n‐alkanes, monomethylalkanes, alkenes, and secondary alcohol wax esters. This composition did not reflect that of the Dufour gland, hence eggs are not being coated with Dufour gland components during oviposition. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 54:95–109, 2003. Published 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Xenorhabdus nematophilus inhibits p‐bromophenacyl bromide (BPB)‐sensitive PLA2 of Spodoptera exigua
Authors: Park Youngjin , Kim Yonggyun
Published: October 2003

Xenorhabdus nematophilus is a Gram‐negative symbiotic bacterium of the entomopathogenic nematode, Steinernema carpocapsae. The bacteria delivered into the insect hemocoel by the nematodes cause immunodepression of the target insects to protect host nematodes and themselves from the cellular immune reaction. Previous reports suggest that the immunodepression is caused by inhibition of the eicosanoid pathway that is known to be critically important to mediate cellular immunity. This study focused on the inhibitory effect of X. nematophilus on PLA2 activity of Spodoptera exigua. The PLA2 activity was functionally associated with the activation cascade of prophenoloxidase (pPO). Dexamethasone (DEX), a specific PLA2 inhibitor, inhibited pPO activation completely at the higher doses of ≈2.4 μM in vitro condition. The inhibitory effect of DEX was reversed by the addition of arachidonic acid, the catalytic product of PLA2. By means of this in vitro PLA2 inhibitor assay system, two different PLA2 inhibitors were used to compare their inhibitory effects on the hemolymph PLA2 of S. exigua. p‐Bromophenacyl bromide (BPB), a specific inhibitor of secretory PLA2 (sPLA2), significantly inhibited pPO activation, but methylarachidonyl fluorophosphates (MAFP), a specific inhibitor of cytosolic PLA2 (cPLA2), did not show any inhibitory effect. BPB also inhibited pPO activation of the plasma, though much higher PO activation and its inhibition by BPB was found in the hemocytes. Growth medium of X. nematophilus at the stationary phase had a PLA2 inhibitory effect. Via the in vitro PLA2 inhibitor assay, it was shown that the ethyl ether extract of the medium contained significant PLA2 inhibitor activity. These results indicate that X. nematophilus produces and secretes PLA2 inhibitor, which acts on BPB‐susceptible PLA2 of S. exigua. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 54:134–142, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular epidemiology of hypospadias: Review of genetic and environmental risk factors
Authors: Manson Jeanne M. , Carr Michael C.
Published: October 2003

Hypospadias is one of the most common congenital anomalies in the United States, occurring in approximately 1 in 125 live male births. It is characterized by altered development of the urethra, foreskin, and ventral surface of the penis. In this review, the embryology, epidemiology, risk factors, genetic predisposition, and likely candidate genes for hypospadias are described. Recent reports have identified increases in the birth prevalence of mild and severe forms of hypospadias in the United States from the 1960s to the present. Studies in consanguineous families and small case series have identified allelic variants in genes controlling androgen action and metabolism that cause hypospadias, but the relevance of these findings to the general population is unknown. Concern has also focused on whether exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC) with antiandrogenic activity is the cause of this increase. Hypospadias is believed to have a multifactorial etiology in which allelic variants in genes controlling androgen action and metabolism predispose individuals to develop this condition. When genetic susceptibility is combined with exposure to antiandrogenic agents, a threshold is surpassed, resulting in the manifestation of this birth defect. A clear role for exposure to antiandrogenic environmental chemicals has yet to be established in the etiology of hypospadias, although results from laboratory animal models indicate that a number of environmental chemicals could be implicated. Molecular epidemiology studies that simultaneously examine the roles of allelic variants in genes controlling androgen action and metabolism, and environmental exposures are needed to elucidate the risk factors for these anomalies and the causes of the increased rate of hypospadias. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Maternal periconceptional alcohol consumption and risk for conotruncal heart defects
Authors: Carmichael Suzan L. , Shaw Gary M. , Yang Wei , Lammer Edward J.
Published: October 2003

BACKGROUND

In this study we investigated whether the risk of delivering infants with conotruncal heart defects was increased among mothers who consumed alcohol during the periconceptional period (i.e., 1 month before conception to 3 months after conception).

METHODS

Data were obtained from a population‐based case‐control study of California births from 1987–1988. Information concerning alcohol consumption was obtained via telephone interviews with mothers of 207 (87% of eligibles) case infants and 481 (76%) nonmalformed control infants.

RESULTS

Bivariate results indicated that relative to nonconsumers, women who consumed alcohol less than once a week had a 1.3‐fold increased risk of delivering infants with a conotruncal heart defect (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.0, 1.9), and women who consumed alcohol once a week or more had a 1.9‐fold increased risk (95% CI 1.0, 3.4). The risks associated with consuming five or more drinks per drinking occasion were 1.6 (95% CI 0.8, 3.2) for less than once a week, and 2.4 for once a week or more (95% CI 0.6, 9.7). The results for the phenotypic subgroups were similar to those for all cases. Adjustment for potential covariates resulted in somewhat weaker, but still elevated, risks.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that the risk of conotruncal heart defects in offspring was moderately elevated among women who consumed alcoholic beverages during the periconceptional period, and that risk was higher with increased frequency of drinking or increased number of drinks consumed per occasion. Most of the risk estimates were imprecise, and chance could not be ruled out as an explanation for the observed findings. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Antibodies to folate receptors impair embryogenesis and fetal development in the rat
Authors: da Costa Maria , Sequeira Jeffrey M. , Rothenberg Sheldon P. , Weedon Jeremy
Published: October 2003

BACKGROUND

Folic acid (FA) supplementation reduces neural tube defects (NTDs) by 70%. However, the cause of most NTDs cannot be attributed to folate deficiency, to mutations of genes that encode folate pathway enzymes, and folate receptors (FRs) that mediate cellular folate uptake. Mouse embryos nullizygous for the ortholog of the FRα gene have lethal congenital abnormalities that are preventable by administration of folinic acid to the dams. To determine whether antibodies to FRs are similarly teratogenic, we studied a rat model.

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry with an antiserum to rat FRs was used to identify the receptors on reproductive tissues and embryos. Gestation day (GD) 8 rats received intraperitoneal injections of antiserum to the FRs, and their embryos were examined 2–9 days later. Some rats received pharmacologic doses of folinic acid or dexamethasone before the antiserum was administered.

RESULTS

The FRs are present on oocytes, the oviduct, and uterine epithelial cells, and in the embryo at all stages examined between GD4 and GD15. The antiserum has a dose‐related effect on embryo viability and organogenesis. Folinic acid prevented teratogenicity resulting from smaller doses of antiserum, but not that caused by larger doses. Resorption of embryos with the larger doses of the antiserum was prevented by dexamethasone.

CONCLUSIONS

FRs are expressed on oocytes, epithelial cells of reproductive organs, and embryonic and extraembryonic tissues. Antiserum to FRs administered to pregnant rats causes embryonic damage. Embryo lethality with smaller doses of antiserum is preventable by administration of folinic acid, while larger doses cause embryo damage by immune‐mediated cell lysis, which can be prevented by dexamethasone. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pediatric neurobehavioral diseases in Nevada counties with respect to perchlorate in drinking water: An ecological inquiry
Authors: Chang Soju , Crothers Carol , Lai Shenghan , Lamm Steven
Published: October 2003

Background

Contamination of drinking water with perchlorate, a known thyrotropic agent, has been demonstrated in areas in the western United States. The health consequences of that exposure have been studied, particularly in the State of Nevada. Previous studies in Nevada, comparing the area with perchlorate in the drinking water and the areas without perchlorate in the drinking water, have found no difference in neonatal thyroxine (T4) or thyrotropin (TSH) levels, or in the prevalences of thyroid diseases and thyroid cancer. This same study design has now been applied to the major neurobehavioral diseases of childhood (i.e., attention deficit‐hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism) and to school performance in order to determine whether those conditions are more frequent in the area with perchlorate‐contaminated water.

METHODS

Medical services data on ADHD and autism were obtained from the Nevada Medicaid system for the period of January 1, 1996, to December 31, 2000, with county of residence used as the basis for residential information. Analyses of fourth‐grade school performance results for two recent time periods came from the state government. Perchlorate concentrations in drinking water had been determined by local water authorities. ADHD and autism rates for the area with perchlorate in the drinking water (Clark County) were calculated and compared with the rates for the other areas in the state, as were fourth‐grade school performances.

RESULTS

Analysis of the data from the Nevada Medicaid program shows that the rates for ADHD and for autism in the area where perchlorate was in the drinking water did not exceed the rates in those areas where there was no perchlorate contamination in the drinking water. Fourth‐grade standardized test results for students in Clark County were not different from those of the remainder of the state.

CONCLUSIONS

This ecological study of children in the exposure area did not find evidence of an increased risk of either ADHD or of autism caused by perchlorate contamination in the drinking water. Furthermore, no difference in overall fourth‐grade school performance was observed. No evidence was found that children from the area with perchlorate in the drinking water (up to 24 μg/liter) had either an increase in pediatric neurobehavioral disease (ADHD and autism) or a decrease in fourth‐grade academic performance. The limitations of this ecological study relate to diagnostic criteria and ascertainment of geographic and demographic differences and to data on individual residence and water consumption during pregnancy. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Caspase‐3 mediates retinoid‐induced apoptosis in the organogenesis‐stage mouse limb
Authors: Ali‐Khan Sarah E. , Hales Barbara F.
Published: October 2003

BACKGROUND

Caspases are key mediators in the regulation and execution of apoptosis, a crucial part of the morphogenetic process during limb development. Caspase‐8 and ‐9 are upstream caspases. Caspase‐8 mediates the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis triggered by signaling through TNF‐R1 family receptors. Caspase‐9 is activated during the intrinsic pathway downstream of mitochondria. Caspase‐3 is an effector caspase that initiates degradation of the cell in the final stages of apoptosis. Vitamin A is a potent teratogen that causes limb reduction defects in embryos exposed during organogenesis. Previous in vitro studies have shown that exposure of the organogenesis‐stage murine limb to vitamin A results in excessive levels of apoptosis. The goal of this work was to characterize the involvement of caspase‐3, ‐8, and ‐9, as well as cytochrome‐c release from the mitochondria, in the apoptotic cascade induced by vitamin A.

METHODS

Limb buds from gestational day 12 CD‐1 mice were cultured in a chemically defined medium in the absence or presence of vitamin A. Cultures were terminated after 6 days to examine the effect of the drug on gross morphology. Apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining after culture for 24 hr. Caspase activation was determined by Western blotting and localized by immunohistochemistry of control and treated limbs. The release of cytochrome‐c into the cytoplasm was assessed by Western blotting after cell‐fractionation.

RESULTS

Limbs cultured in the presence of vitamin A showed a dose‐dependent growth reduction and dysmorphogenesis of the cartilaginous anlagen. Apoptosis was increased in the interdigital, anterior, and posterior marginal zones and in the apical ectodermal ridge. Western‐blotting confirmed the presence of activated caspase‐3 that increased with time in culture and vitamin A concentration. Cleaved caspase‐3 immunoreactivity colocalized with TUNEL stained limb regions and increased dramatically with increasing drug concentrations. In contrast, procaspase‐8 and ‐9 were not activated. Exposure to high concentrations of vitamin A did, however, increase cytoplasmic cytochrome‐c, suggesting mitochondrial involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Caspase‐3 is a key effector caspase in the apoptotic pathway induced by Vitamin A. While caspases‐8 and ‐9 are not responsible for the activation of caspase‐3 in response to the drug, cytochrome‐c release from mitochondria may play an upstream role. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 67:848–860, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Increased risk of birth defects among children from multiple births
Authors: Li Si‐Jia , Ford Nancy , Meister Karen , Bodurtha Joann
Published: October 2003

BACKGROUND

Multiple births are increasing, and may be associated with birth defects.

METHODS

To explore this relationship, data from the Virginia birth defects registry (VaCARES) was analyzed.

RESULTS

During 1989–1998, a total of 44,505 children from singleton births and 2258 children from multiple births were born with birth defects in Virginia. The risk of birth defects was significantly increased in children from multiple births as compared to singleton births (birth defect rate per 10,000 live births: singleton 482.3, twin 922.0, triplet 1300.0, and quadruplet or higher 2222.2). Increased risk was observed for 39 of 86 diagnoses. The five diagnoses with the highest risk ratio per 10,000 live births (RR) were: neurofibromatosis (RR, 12.80), retrolental fibroplasia (RR, 9.96), microphthalmos (RR, 5.24), pulmonary valve anomalies (RR, 5.00), and patent ductus arteriosus (RR, 4.68). A significantly reduced risk ratio for congenital hip dislocation was found in these children (RR, 0.54). In most multiple births, only one child was born with birth defects (81% in twin births, 71% in triplet births, and 56% in quadruplet and higher births). The diagnosis of birth defects might be concordant or discordant for children in which all siblings had birth defects. The children from multiple births who had birth defects were generally preterm and had significantly lower birth weight. A higher fatality and mortality rate and longer hospital stay were also observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, children from multiple births have an increased risk of birth defects. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 67:879–885, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Efficient Bayesian Sample Size Calculation for Designing a Clinical Trial with Multi‐Cluster Outcome Data
Authors: Zou Kelly H. , Resnic Frederic S. , Gogate Adheet S. , Ondategui‐Parra Silvia , Ohno‐Machado Lucila
Published: October 2003

Health care utilization and outcome studies call for hierarchical approaches. The objectives were to predict major complications following percutaneous coronary interventions by health providers, and to compare Bayesian and non‐Bayesian sample size calculation methods. The hierarchical data structure consisted of: (1) Strata: PGY4, PGY7, and physician assistant as providers with varied experiences; (2) Clusters: ks providers per stratum; (3) Individuals: ns patients reviewed by each provider. The main outcome event illustrated was mortality modeled by a Bayesian beta‐binomial model. Pilot information and assumptions were utilized to elicit beta prior distributions. Sample size calculations were based on the approximated average length, fixed at 1%, of 95% posterior intervals of the mean event rate parameter. Necessary sample sizes by both non‐Bayesian and Bayesian methods were compared. We demonstrated that the developed Bayesian methods can be efficient and may require fewer subjects to satisfy the same length criterion.
Incorporating Inter‐item Correlations in Item Response Data Analysis
Authors: Sheng Xiaoming , Biswas Atanu , Carrière K.C.
Published: October 2003

This paper concerns with the analysis of item response data, which are usually measured on a rating scale and are therefore ordinal. These study items tended to be highly inter‐correlated. Rasch models, which convert ordinal categorical scales into linear measurements, are widely used in ordinal data analysis. In this paper, we improve the current methodology in order to incorporate inter‐item correlations. We have advocated the latent variable approach for this purpose, in combination with generalized estimating equations to estimate the Rasch model parameters. The data on a study of families of lung cancer patients demonstrate the utility of our methods.
Analysis of correlated series of repeated measurements: application to challenge data
Authors: Engel Bas , van Reenen Kees , Buist Willem
Published: October 2003

Data from an ACTH challenge experiment with veal calves, two short time series of cortisol measurements per animal at 6 and 27 weeks of age, are analysed. Interest is focussed on variation in cortisol profiles both within and between animals. Potential effects of an animals diet and housing system on the profiles are addressed as well. Fully parametric and semi‐parametric models, combining individual random effects with effects of diet and housing, were fitted using (approximate) restricted maximum likelihood (employing Laplacian integration). Eigenfunctions were utilized to describe the variation between profiles and the connection between profiles of the same individual. All calculations were performed with standard software. Results of the analysis provides empirical support for the existence of stable individual characteristics mediating reactivity of the adrenal cortex.
Percutaneous intervention for the treatment of hypoplastic aortoiliac syndrome
Authors: Walton Brian L. , Dougherty Kathy , Mortazavi Ali , Strickman Neil , Krajcer Zvonimir
Published: October 2003

Hypoplastic aortoiliac syndrome (HAIS) occurs in young women and is characterized by a small infrarenal aorta with a hypoplastic iliofemoral arterial system and advanced atherosclerotic disease. Of 304 aortoiliac interventions (AoI), 30 female patients (mean age, 50 ± 5 years) had HAIS. HAIS patients were less likely to have coronary disease (33% vs. 88%; P < 0.0001) or diabetes (10% vs. 42%; P < 0.001) compared to their AoI counterparts. Twenty‐three patients (73%) had hyperlipidemia with mean cholesterol of 287 ± 42 mg/dl. Twenty‐eight patients (93%) were successfully treated with AoI. The ankle/brachial indices improved from pre‐AoI ABI of 0.55 ± 0.1 to post‐AoI ABI of 0.99 ± 0.1. Complications included one groin hematoma and one case of thrombosis. Follow‐up averaged 31 months (range, 3–91 months) with an early (less than 12 months) restenosis rate of 7% and late (greater than 12 months) restenosis of 21%. One patient (3%) required surgical revascularization for persistent symptoms. Percutaneous treatment of HAIS is an alternative to surgical revascularization with satisfactory long‐term results.Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2003;60:329–334. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stenting and glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibition in patients with acute myocardial infarction undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: Findings from the global registry of acute coronary events (GRACE)
Authors: Montalescot Gilles , Van de Werf Frans , Gulba Dietrich C. , Avezum Álvaro , Brieger David , Kennelly Brian M. , Mazurek Tomasz , Spencer Frederick , White Kami , Gore Joel M.
Published: October 2003

Stenting and GP IIb/IIIa inhibition are promising adjunctive therapies in PCI. The Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) is a registry of unselected patients with acute coronary syndromes, allowing for the study of treatments in a real‐world environment. Data from GRACE patients with AMI who underwent PCI were analyzed. After adjusting for demographics, baseline characteristics, and previous medications, treatment with GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors and a stent and treatment with a stent alone were significant predictors of survival at 6 months. Stents were used in 90.9% of patients. GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors were used in 59.7%; in most cases they were started after the beginning of the procedure. The in‐hospital death rate (7.6%) was highest in patients undergoing urgent PCI. Mortality at 6 months following PCI was 14.4% among patients who received neither GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors nor a stent, compared to patients who received both GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors and a stent (7.3%), GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors alone (12.8%), or a stent alone (6.7%) Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2003;60:360–367. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical impact of abciximab on long‐term outcome after complex coronary angioplasty
Authors: Wijpkema Jasper S. , Jessurun Gillian A.J. , Van Boven Ad J. , Versteeg Dik I.K. , Hautvast Raymond W.M. , Tio René A.
Published: October 2003

Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor antagonists, such as abciximab, are used to reduce major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) in patients undergoing percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. The goal of this study was to evaluate the administration of abciximab in relation to lesion complexity and periprocedural complications. A total of 357 patients with 435 de novo lesions were included in this study. Lesions were divided into simple (type A and type B1) and complex (type B2 and type C) lesions according to the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force lesion complexity system. Abciximab was given to unstable complex lesions and simple lesions with a periprocedural unstable complicated course. The overall incidence of MACE during the 9‐month follow‐up period was 17.0%. Patients treated with abciximab had a higher lesion complexity (P < 0.001), dissections (P = 0.014), stents (P < 0.001), and vessels involved (P < 0.001). in addition, the abciximab group was characterized by a higher angina NYHA class (P = 0.005), lower TIMI flow prior to stenting (P = 0.01), and a longer total inflation time (P = 0.006). Despite these clinical differences, the occurrence of MACE within the abciximab group was slightly less than in the group without abciximab (16.2% and 17.3%, respectively). Lesion complexity was directly related to MACE in the group that did not receive abciximab (simple and stable complex lesions; P = 0.04). On the other hand, in subjects treated with abciximab, lesion complexity was not related to a higher incidence of MACE (P = 0.76). The use of abciximab equalizes the difference in outcome between simple and complex lesions. Therefore, abciximab should be advocated especially in unstable and complex percutaneous coronary interventions. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2003;60:339–343. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Endovascular intervention of aortoiliac occlusive disease in high‐risk patients using the kissing stents technique: Long‐term results
Authors: Mouanoutoua Mouatou , Maddikunta Rajesh , Allaqaband Suhail , Gupta Anjan , Shalev Yoseph , Tumuluri Ramagopal , Bajwa Tanvir
Published: October 2003

Endovascular intervention deploying a kissing stents (KS) technique has been used as an alternative to surgical intervention in treating symptomatic aortoiliac occlusive disease. However, the long‐term results on high‐risk patients are unknown. We retrospectively analyzed data on high‐risk patients who underwent endovascular intervention using the KS technique at our institution. Fifty high‐risk patients aged 62 ± 6.4 years with severe aortoiliac stenosis underwent stent‐supported angioplasty using the KS technique. Thirty percent of the patients had total occlusion of the distal aorta and/or the iliac arteries. Twelve patients received thrombolytics prior to stenting. The procedure was successful in all 50 patients. There was a 4% acute complication rate (distal embolization). However, there were no vascular complications, myocardial infarction, or perioperative death. Primary patency during follow‐up of 20 ± 12.3 months was 92%, while secondary patency rate was 100%. Amputation‐free survival was 100%. Ninety‐two percent remained free of lifestyle‐limiting claudication.Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2003;60:320–326.© 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transcatheter left atrial appendage occlusion with Amplatzer devices to obviate anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Meier Bernhard , Palacios Igor , Windecker Stephan , Rotter Martin , Cao Qi‐Ling , Keane David , Ruiz Carlos E. , Hijazi Ziyad M.
Published: October 2003

It is assumed that over 90% of clinically apparent embolisms in atrial fibrillation originate from the left atrial appendage. Recently, a percutaneous method (PLAATO technique) to occlude the left atrial appendage to the end of preventing thromboembolic complications of atrial fibrillation has been introduced into clinical practice. This technique is quite intricate and requires general anesthesia. The Amplatzer atrial septal occluder lends itself for a more simple approach to this intervention. The first 16 patients treated at four centers are described. Their age varied from 58 to 83 years. All suffered from atrial fibrillation but eight of them were in sinus rhythm at the time of implantation. All but two procedures were done under local anesthesia of the groin only. There was one technical failure (device embolization) requiring surgery. All other patients left the hospital a day after the procedure without complications. There were no problems or embolic events during an overall follow‐up of 5 patient‐years and all left atrial appendages were completely occluded without evidence of thrombosis at the atrial side of the device at the latest follow‐up echocardiography. With the Amplatzer technique, the left atrial appendage can be percutaneously occluded with a venous puncture under local anesthesia, without echocardiographic guidance, and at a reasonable risk. It remains to be evaluated in larger series or randomized trials how the simpler Amplatzer technique compares with the complex PLAATO technique, and whether left atrial appendage closure is competitive with oral anticoagulation with warfarin or the novel ximelagatran to prevent thromboembolism in atrial fibrillation. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2003;60:417–422. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synergistic effects of a novel nanoporous stent coating and tacrolimus on intima proliferation in rabbits
Authors: Wieneke Heinrich , Dirsch Olaf , Sawitowski Thomas , Gu Yan Li , Brauer Holger , Dahmen Uta , Fischer Alfons , Wnendt Stefan , Erbel Raimund
Published: October 2003

To overcome the problem of in‐stent restenosis, the concept of local delivery of antiproliferative or immunosuppressive drugs has been introduced into interventional cardiology. Local drug delivery can be achieved by drug‐eluting stents coated with polymer surfaces used for controlled drug release. However, several polymer coatings have shown an induction of inflammatory response and increased neointima formation. In the present study, the effect of a new inorganic ceramic nanoporous aluminum oxide (Al2O3) coating on neointima proliferation and its suitability as a carrier for the immunosuppressive drug tacrolimus have been investigated. 316 L stainless steel coronary stents were coated with a 500 nm thin nanoporous aluminum oxide layer. This ceramic nanolayer was used as a carrier for tacrolimus. Bare stents (n = 6), ceramic coated stents (n = 6), and ceramic coated stents loaded with 60 (n = 7) and 120 μg (n = 6) tacrolimus were implanted in the common carotid artery of New Zealand rabbits. The ceramic coating caused no significant reduction of neointimal thickness after 28 days. Loading the ceramic stents with tacrolimus led to a significant reduction of neointima thickness by 52% for 60 μg (P = 0.047) and 56% for 120 μg (P = 0.036) as compared to the bare stents. The ceramic coating alone as well as in combination with tacrolimus led to a reduced infiltration of lymphocytes and macrophages in the intima in response to stent implantation. Ceramic coating of coronary stents with a nanoporous layer of aluminum oxide in combination with tacrolimus resulted in a significant reduction in neointima formation and inflammatory response. The synergistic effects of the ceramic coating and tacrolimus suggest that this new approach may have a high potential to translate into clinical benefit. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2003;60:399–407. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Incidence and predictors of late total occlusion following coronary stenting
Authors: Shah Pinak B. , Cutlip Donald E. , Popma Jeffrey J. , Kuntz Richard E. , Ho Kalon K.L.
Published: October 2003

To determine the incidence and predictors of total occlusion in‐stent restenosis, we reviewed three randomized stent vs. stent trials and one stent registry, which provided 955 coronary artery lesions with 6‐month angiographic follow‐up. Fifteen (1.6%) of the 955 stented lesions were totally occluded at 6‐month follow‐up. Most patients with total occlusion presented with recurrent angina at the time of repeat angiography (60.0%) while no patient presented with an acute ST segment elevation myocardial infarction. The univariate predictors of total occlusion following elective coronary stenting included stenting for restenosis after a previous percutaneous intervention (P = 0.001), longer stent length (P < 0.001), longer lesion length (P < 0.001), smaller reference vessel diameter (P = 0.022), smaller preprocedure minimum lumen diameter (MLD; P = 0.004), and smaller postprocedure MLD (P = 0.036). Stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated that stenting for restenotic lesions (P = 0.004), longer stent length (P < 0.001), and smaller preprocedure MLD (P = 0.012) were independent predictors of total occlusion following coronary stenting. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2003;60:344‐351. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stenting for spontaneous left internal mammary artery dissection: A case report
Authors: Ziaee Ali , Puri Sanjeev , Kern Morton J.
Published: October 2003

We present a case of a spontaneously occurring mid LIMA dissection found on routine cardiac catheterization. We report our evaluation and intervention for this exceedingly rare phenomenon. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2003;60:389–391. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Direct stent implantation without predilatation through 5 French guiding catheter following transfemoral coronary angiogram: A feasibility study
Authors: Brasselet Camille , Metz Damien , Pérotin Sophie , Mangina Sophie Tassan , Deschildre Alain , Maillier Bruno , Blaise Claude , Elaerts Jacques
Published: October 2003

Direct stenting (DS) is accepted as reducing procedural cost and duration and 5 Fr guiding catheters as lowering peripheral vascular complications. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of both strategies. We retrospectively studied 150 consecutive patients treated with DS strategy using a 5 Fr femoral approach. A need for 6 Fr devices or balloon predilatation defined 5 Fr DS failure. Procedural success was defined as good angiographic result (residual stenosis < 30% and TIMI flow 3) without ischemic complications. A total of 161 out of 174 lesions were elected as suitable for DS. The success rate of 5 Fr DS was 87.6% (141/161 lesions). The procedural success rate was 92% (138/150 patients). The angiographic success rate was 96.3% (155/161 lesions). Other complications were six non‐Q‐wave MI and one repeat angioplasty for acute in‐stent thrombosis. Only one major peripheral vascular complication occurred. Direct stenting through 5 Fr guiding catheters in selected lesions is safe and effective with a low incidence of peripheral arterial complications. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2003;60:354–359. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Renal angioplasty and stenting under protection: The way for the future?
Authors: Henry Michel , Henry Isabelle , Klonaris Christos , Polydorou Antonio , Rath Pathrap , Lakshmi Gopalakrishnan , Rajacopal Sriram , Hugel Michèle
Published: October 2003

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of renal artery angioplasty and stenting utilizing a distal protection device to reduce the risk of intraprocedural artery embolism and avoid deterioration of the renal function. Fifty‐six hypertensive patients (32 men; mean age, 66 ± 11.8 years; range, 22–87) with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis (8 bilateral) underwent angioplasty and stenting with distal protection in 65 renal arteries (58 ostial lesions). Five patients had a solitary kidney, 18 a renal insufficiency. The lesion was crossed either with a GuardWire temporary occlusion balloon (n = 38), which was inflated to provide parenchyma protection or with a filter (EPI Filter; n = 26), or with Angioguard (n = 1), which allows a continuous flow. Generated debris was aspirated and analyzed. Blood pressure and serum creatinine levels were followed. Immediate technical success was 100%. All lesions except one were stented, either directly (43 ostial lesions) or after predilatation (22 ostial lesions). Visible debris were aspirated with the PercuSurge in all patients or removed with filters in 80% of the patients. Mean particle number and diameter were 98.1 ± 60.0 per procedure (range, 13–208) and 201.0 ± 76.0 μm (range, 38–6,206), respectively. Mean renal artery occlusion time was 6.55 ± 2.46 min (range, 2.29–13.21) with the PercuSurge device. Mean time in situ (filters) was 4.25 ± 1.12 min. Mean follow‐up was 22.6 ± 17.6 months (range, 1–47). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure declined from 169.0 ± 15.2 and 104.0 ± 13.0 mm Hg, respectively, to 149.7 ± 12.4 and 92.7 ± 6.7 mm Hg after the procedure. The mean creatinine level remains constant during the follow‐up. At 6‐month follow‐up (45 patients), renal function did not deteriorate in any patient, whereas 8 patients with baseline renal insufficiency improved after the procedure. At 3 years (19 patients), renal function deteriorated only in 1 patient with renal insufficiency and in 1 patient treated for bilateral renal stenosis, one side without protection. These preliminary results suggest the feasibility and safety of distal protection during renal interventions to protect against atheroembolism and to avoid renal function deterioration. This technique's beneficial effects should be evaluated by randomized studies. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2003;60:299–312. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Wärme‐ und Stoffübertragung
Authors: Martin H.
Published: October 2003

No abstracts.
Gasreinigung
Authors: Schmidt E.
Published: October 2003

No abstracts.
Extraktion
Authors: Bart H.‐J.
Published: October 2003

No abstracts.
Hochdruckverfahrenstechnik: Rückblick – Entwicklung – Status – Ausblick
Authors: Brunner G.
Published: October 2003

No abstracts.
Von der Müllbeseitigung zum Stoffstrommanagement – Meilensteine der Abfallwirtschaft
Authors: Neukirchen B.
Published: October 2003

No abstracts.
Membrantechnik
Authors: Melin T.
Published: October 2003

No abstracts.
Ein leidenschaftliches Paar: Nanowisssenschaft und Nanotechnologie
Authors: Hedderich R.
Published: October 2003

No abstracts.
Rohrleitungsplanung – Ein dynamisches Fachgebiet
Authors: Klaer R.‐H.
Published: October 2003

No abstracts.
Forensische Chemie — Aufklärung von Verbrechen mit chemischen Methoden
Authors: Bader Hans Joachim , Rothweil Martin
Published: October 2003

Bei der Aufklärung von Verbrechen, besonders bei der Sicherung und dem Nachweis von Spuren, finden chemische und physikalische Verfahren eine breite Anwendung. Im Chemieunterricht lassen sich einige dieser Verfahren mit vergleichsweise geringem Aufwand nachvollziehen. Es werden hier Methoden zum Nachweis von Fingerabdrücken und Prägespuren vorgestellt.
Didaktische Überlegungen zur Implementierung diffusionsgesteuerter Wachstumsphänomene in den Chemieunterricht
Authors: Höltkemeier Dirk , Oetken Marco
Published: October 2003

UNTER BESTIMMTEN BEDINGUNGEN wachsen bei dem Gefrieren von Wasser, der Kristallisation von Salzen aus übersättigten Salz‐Lösungen und der Fällung von Metallen durch Reduktion aus Metallsalz‐Lösungen dendritische, d.h. baumartig verzweigte Kristalle. Das Modell des diffusions‐kontrollierten Wachstums (engl. diffusion‐limited aggregation, DLA) führt dieses Phänomen auf eine ungerichtete Diffusionsbewegung von Teilchen und ihrer gesetzmäßigen Anlagerung bei dem Kontakt mit einem Wachstumskeim zurück. In diesem Beitrag wird nun aufgezeigt, dass eine Thematisierung derartiger diffusionskontrollierter Wachstumsphänomene im Chemieunterricht eine ungewöhnlichen Möglichkeit bietet, das Wechselspiel zwischen den charakteristischen Betrachtungsebenen der Chemie (makroskopische, submikroskopische und symbolische Ebene), dem so genannten „chemischen Dreieck”︁, bewusst zu machen und das Zusammensetzen der unterschiedlichen Perspektiven zu einem einheitlichen Bild zu üben. Das DLA‐Modell, das grundlegende Aspekte einer schulisch relevanten Diskontinuumsebene benutzt, spielt hierfür eine zentrale Rolle und es ermöglicht, die Morphologie und den Wachstumsprozess der dendritischen Kristalle in einem dynamischen Teilchenmodell interpretieren zu können.