bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic Screening With Incarcerated Youths
Authors: Mcreynolds Larkin S. , Wasserman Gail A. , Fisher Prudence , Lucas Christopher P.
Published: May 2007

In the first examination in a juvenile justice setting, associations between the DISC Predictive Scales (DPS) and the Voice Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children in identifying mental health concerns were investigated. Assessment center youth ( N = 195) completed computerized versions of both instruments. Psychometric properties and logistic regression estimates for diagnostic clusters were examined, and DPS summary subscales to derive cut points for incarcerated youths were created. DPS consistently identified higher percentages of youths. At the cluster level, there was considerable concordance, with agreement higher for the same diagnostic constructs, even after statistical adjustment. Summary subscale cut points identified ≥ 82% of disordered youths. Given recommendations for universal screening in corrections, the DPS offers advantages over existing screens as a component of mental health assessment.
Taxometric Analysis of the Psychological Inventory of Criminal Thinking Styles in Incarcerated Offenders and College Students
Authors: Walters Glenn D. , McCoy Katrina
Published: May 2007

The Psychological Inventory of Criminal Thinking Styles (PICTS) was administered to 427 (204 male and 223 female) incarcerated offenders and 393 (177 male and 216 female) college students in order to assess the latent structure of the PICTS under conditions conducive to the formation of a pseudotaxon. Objective and subjective analyses of 3 different taxometric procedures—mean above minus below a cut (MAMBAC), maximum covariance/maximum eigenvalue (MAXCOV/ MAXEIG), and latent mode (L-Mode) factor analysis—in the total sample and 4 subgroups of participants were conducted. Results revealed modest to moderate support for a dimensional interpretation of the latent structure of the PICTS, despite wide differences in age, race, criminality, and PICTS scores between the groups in each subsample. The implications of these results for the lifestyle theory of criminal behavior are discussed.
Communication, Language, and Discrimination
Authors: Sachdev Itesh
Published: May 2007

This article provides a general overview on language and discrimination from the point of view of the social psychology of language. Following a short historical preamble, it provides a brief introduction to the research that was part of the special task force on Language and Discrimination established by the International Association of Language and Social Psychology. The task force aimed to draw attention to current conceptualizations of the links between language and discrimination, delineate communicative features related to discrimination, focus on the experience of victims of discrimination, and outline measures that may contribute to thwarting discriminatory practices or limiting their impact.
Intergroup Contact and Minority-Language Education
Authors: Wright Stephen C. , Bougie Évelyne
Published: May 2007

The authors consider two related approaches that may be important in the amelioration of language-based discrimination. The first focuses on the attitudes of the dominant-language group and applies recent perspectives on the intergroup contact theory to suggest ways of reducing prejudice among members of the dominant group. Research with White/Anglo children in California are used to show the potential benefits of bilingual over English-only education in this regard. The second approach focuses on the psychology of the minority-language group. Supported by research with Inuit children in Arctic Quebec, the authors describe how heritage-language education can have a positive impact on personal and social identity, support heritage-language development, facilitate second-language acquisition, and perhaps buffer the negative impact of discrimination on self-esteem and well-being by supporting the development of strong ingroup identification.
Disappearance of a Stutter Shortly Before Death
Authors: Duong Phuc H. , Zulian Gilbert B.
Published: May 2007

A patient with a stutter caused by the trauma of the death of a loved one was able to recover normal speech 1 week before her death, which resulted from intestinal obstruction caused by ovarian cancer. The stutter appeared to have been overcome using a combination therapy of sophrology, self-regulation, and drug therapy. During a genuine resilience process, the patient was able to overcome an earlier existential fracture. In this final phase of life, health professionals and the family fully respected the patient's independence to remain in control of events. She repeatedly refused to have a nasogastric tube inserted to extract fecal matter from the stomach. This patient consequently repossessed her own language of expression in a body that was shattered by cancerous illness and the consequences of treatments. She thus managed to find a successful balance between the body, the spirit, and the brain.
Where do Prevention and Palliative Care Meet? A Systematic Literature Study on the Interfaces of two Different Health Care Sectors
Authors: Schneider Nils , Walter Ulla
Published: May 2007

The objective of this study was to elaborate aspects of prevention in palliative care on the basis of available literature sources. We analyzed 223 articles from 145 different journals covering the period from April 2001 to April 2006. Subject-related categories were derived from the contents of these articles. Each article was subsequently allocated to one of the categories. In addition, we performed a free search in 6 selected text books on palliative care. The results revealed that the main textual emphasis had been placed on pain therapy and controlling the symptoms of bone metastasis. Altogether, the focus was on measures of tertiary prevention, whereas measures of primary prevention and preventive medicine received little attention. Therefore, the accentuation of the preventive aspect in the World Health Organization definition of palliative care is only rudimentarily reflected in the literature.
The Early Identification of Palliative Care Patients: Preliminary Processes and Estimates From Urban, Family Medicine Practices
Authors: Rainone Francine , Blank Arthur , Selwyn Peter A.
Published: May 2007

Primary care providers are positioned to identify patients, well in advance of their deaths, who could benefit from palliative care services, but little is known about how to correctly identify these upstream palliative care patients. This article reports on efforts to devise a methodology for identifying such patients and to offer preliminary estimates of their prevalence in urban, primary care practices. The data presented here suggest 2 conclusions: (1) that electronic databases may be used to create a preliminary screen to assist clinicians in the early identification of patients in need of palliative care, and (2) that 1% to 3% of patients in primary care practices may benefit from palliative care services. Currently, there are no standards regarding the role of primary care providers in end-of-life care and it is hoped that this article will contribute to developing such standards.
A Comprehensive Community-Based Model for Hospice Care
Authors: Harrison Jeffrey P. , Ford Dennis
Published: May 2007

This study discusses the unique characteristics of a comprehensive community-based model for hospice care. The data demonstrate that community-based hospice programs serve a population composed primarily of Medicare patients 75 years and older. It also addresses the primary clinical diagnoses for hospice patients, which include lung cancer, cognitive disability, cerebrovascular disease, congestive heart failure, chronic airway obstruction, colon cancer, renal failure, and prostrate cancer. Finally, the study found that the primary caregiver for community-based hospice patients is the spouse, followed by other family members.
A Multilevel Multisite Outcomes-by-Implementation Evaluation of an Early Childhood Literacy Model
Authors: Zvoch Keith , Letourneau Lawrence E. , Parker Robert P.
Published: May 2007

The evaluation of an intervention delivered across multiple treatment sites presents a unique opportunity for evaluators to gauge the manner and degree to which the “impact” of treatment varies across implementation conditions and different target populations. However, the availability of implementation data for each treatment site, while presenting the opportunity for more sophisticated impact assessment, also presents an analytic challenge. In the following, multilevel growth models were applied to data describing students and classroom sites to demonstrate how the multilevel modeling framework can be used to analyze data obtained from a multisite program implementation. Results of the investigation indicated that increased adherence to the program model was not associated with more positive recipient outcomes. Further examination of the null finding indicated that the highest and lowest rates of literacy growth observed in the study were concentrated in several low-implementing sites. Implications for multisite evaluation design and practice are discussed.
Epidemiology of Male Sexual Dysfunction
Authors: Hatzimouratidis Konstantinos
Published: May 2007

Male sexual dysfunction includes erectile dysfunction (ED), ejaculation disorders, orgasmic dysfunctions, and disorders of sexual interest/desire. Although current epidemiologic research supports the high prevalence of ED worldwide, incidence data are limited. Furthermore, prevalence data on other male sexual dysfunctions are also limited whereas incidence data are lacking. These epidemiologic data vary widely due to the different definitions used, the method of sampling, and the unknown value of the instruments used to assess sexual dysfunction. Many of the epidemiologic studies are old and associated with poor methodology. Although risk factors for ED are well described, there are almost no data for risk factors in other sexual dysfunctions. The impact of modification of risk factors in sexual dysfunctions is extremely interesting. To provide evidence-based data, there is an urgent need for new, properly designed epidemiological research.
Successful treatment of lymphoproliferative disease complicating primary immunodeficiency/immunodysregulatory disorders with reduced-intensity allogeneic stem-cell transplantation
Authors: Cohen Jonathan M. , Sebire Neil J. , Harvey Julia , Gaspar H. Bobby , Cathy Cale , Jones Alison , Rao Kanchan , Cubitt David , Amrolia Persis J. , Davies E. Graham , Veys Paul
Published: May 2007

Lymphoproliferative disease (LPD) is a recognized complication of primary immunodeficiency (PID) and immunodysregulatory syndromes. Historically, it has a very poor outcome. For patients surviving LPD, myeloablative hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT) was the only cure for the underlying PID, with a high risk of developing posttransplantation complications, including recurrent lymphoproliferative disease. We describe 8 patients with a range of PID and immunodysregulatory syndromes complicated by LPD. After initial treatment of the LPD (including the use of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, rituximab, in 6 of the patients), all patients underwent reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) SCT with prospective monitoring for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) viremia. After transplantation, 3 patients received rituximab, and 3 patients received prophylactic EBV-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocytes. Only 1 patient developed recurrent LPD posttransplantation, which responded to rituximab. All patients who underwent transplantation survive free of LPD and are cured of their PID at a median follow-up of 4 years (range, 1-7 years). With careful monitoring and pre-emptive therapy, we advocate this RIC SCT approach to patients with PID who have pre-existing EBV-LPD.
From Polemic to Exegesis: The Ancient Philosophical Commentary
Authors: Baltussen Han
Published: May 2007

Commentary was an important vehicle for philosophical debate in late antiquity. Its antecedents lie in the rise of rational argumentation, polemical rivalry, literacy, and the canonization of texts. This essay aims to give a historical and typological outline of philosophical exegesis in antiquity, from the earliest allegorizing readings of Homer to the full-blown “running commentary” in the Platonic tradition (fourth to sixth centuries CE). Running commentaries are mostly on authoritative thinkers such as Plato and Aristotle. Yet they are never mere scholarly enterprises but, rather, springboards for syncretistic clarification, elaboration, and creative interpretation. Two case studies (Galen 129-219 CE, Simplicius ca. 530 CE) will illustrate the range of exegetical tools available at the end of a long tradition in medical science and in reading Aristotle through Neoplatonic eyes, respectively.
Development and Application of a Convergent Strategy for the Total Synthesis of Polycyclic Ether Natural Products
Authors: Sasaki Makoto
Published: May 2007

The polycyclic ether class of marine natural products presents formidable and challenging synthetic targets due to their structural complexity and exceptionally potent biological activities. Over the past decade, however, their extremely limited availability from natural sources has precluded detailed biological studies on polycyclic ethers. Therefore, the supply of useful quantities of these natural products by chemical total synthesis has been strongly demanded. We developed a highly convergent strategy for the rapid assembly of a huge polycyclic ether array, which features Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reaction of alkylboranes, generated from exocyclic enol ethers, with cyclic ketene acetal triflates or phosphates combined with reductive ring-closure. The utility of this strategy was demonstrated by its application to the convergent total synthesis of the natural products gambierol and gymnocin-A. These practical synthetic routes allowed for the first time systematic studies of the structure–activity relationships of the polycyclic ether class of natural products.
Investigations of Electronic Structures and Photocatalytic Activities under Visible Light Irradiation of Lead Molybdate Replaced with Chromium(VI)
Authors: Shimodaira Yoshiki , Kato Hideki , Kobayashi Hisayoshi , Kudo Akihiko
Published: May 2007

Chromium-replaced PbMoO4, PbMo1−xCrxO4, prepared by an aqueous reflux method, showed a photocatalytic activity for O2 evolution from an aqueous solution containing an electron accepter, such as Ag+ or Fe3+ under visible light irradiation (vis) (λ ≥ 420 nm). PbMo0.98Cr0.02O4 (Energy gap: 2.26 eV) showed the highest activity for the O2 evolution under vis and UV + vis light irradiation. The activity of PbMo0.98Cr0.02O4 was one order of magnitude higher than that of PbMoO4 under UV + vis light irradiation. The crystal structures of PbMo1−xCrxO4 were studied by the Rietveld analysis for powder X-ray diffraction. PbMo1−xCrxO4 had a scheelite-type structure when x was equal to or smaller than 0.2. The energy band structures of PbMo1−xCrxO4 were calculated based on density functional theory using the structural parameters refined by the Rietveld analysis. It was revealed that the top of the valence band of PbMoO4 consisted of O2p and Pb6s orbitals and the accepter level was composed of a Cr3d orbital in the forbidden band below the conduction band consisting of a Mo4d orbital. It was concluded that the visible light response was due to the excitation from the Pb6s + O2p valence band to the Cr3d accepter level.
Dinuclear Valence Tautomeric 1,2-Semiquinonato/Catecholatocobalt Complexes Containing 1,1,4,7,10,10-Hexamethyltriethylenetetramine
Authors: Liang Hui , Na Young Mee , Chun In Sung , Kwon Soon Sik , Lee Young-A , Jung Ok-Sang
Published: May 2007

Dinuclear 1,2-semiquinonato/catecholatocobalt complexes containing 1,1,4,7,10,10-hexamethyltriethylenetetramine (hmdeta) as a potential tetradentate N4 coligand, [Co2(hmteta)(dbbq)4], (dbbq = 3,5- and 3,6-di-tert-butyl-1,2-benzoquinone (3,5-dbbq and 3,6-dbbq)) were synthesized and characterized. The crystal structures proved that [Co2(hmteta)(3,6-dbbq)4]·2C6H5CH3 ([3,6]) exists as low spin [(3,6-dbsq)(3,6-dbcat)CoIII(hmteta)CoIII(3,6-dbsq)(3,6-dbcat)] (3,6-dbsq = 3,6-di-tert-butyl-1,2-semiquinonato; 3,6-dbcat = 3,6-di-tert-butylcatecholato), while [Co2(hmteta)(3,5-dbbq)4]·C6H5CH3 ([3,5]) approximates to [(3,5-dbsq)2CoII(hmteta)CoII(3,5-dbsq)2] in the solid state at ambient temperature. On the basis of the effective magnetic moments, the [CoIII] → [CoII] conversion of [3,6] underwent a relatively abrupt transition around 330 K while that of [3,5] occurs in a wide range of temperature. Electronic absorption spectra showed that [3,6] shifts predominantly to [CoIII] whereas [3,5] shifts to [CoII] valence tautomer in solution at room temperature. The charge distribution of [3,6] exhibited significant solvent effects at room temperature. These prominent features between [3,5] and [3,6] appeared to be associated with difference between delicate electronic and steric effects of the two dbbq ligands.
Catalytic Alkane Hydroxylation Reaction with Nickel(II) Complexes Supported by Di- and Triphenol Ligands
Authors: Nagataki Takayuki , Itoh Shinobu
Published: May 2007

NiII-complexes supported by the tetradentate ligands containing two or three 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol groups were synthesized and structurally characterized. The NiII-complex of the diphenol ligand has been found to act as a very efficient turnover catalyst in the alkane hydroxylation reaction with m-chloroperbenzoic acid (m-CPBA).
On Our Obligation to Respond to Psuedo‐Science
Authors: Vitzthum Virginia J
Published: May 2007

?A Case of Misrepresenting the Scientific Record on the Effects of Parents' Sexual Orientation Edward H Hagen, Raymond Hames  ?The Complexities of the Peer Review System Alex W Barker
Association for Feminist Anthropology
Authors: Upton Rebecca
Published: May 2007

?Popular Purity? ?Hurston Travel Award
Council on Anthropology and Education
Authors: Baltodano Marta P
Published: May 2007

?Seeking a New CAE Contributing Editor ?George and Louise Spindler Award ?Outstanding Dissertation Award ?Shorter CAE Presidential Term ?New CAE Ad Hoc Committees
Society for the Anthropology of North America
Authors: Hyatt Susan B
Published: May 2007

?Doing Time With Foucault: Reading the Literature on Prisons While Inside the Walls Kathleen Costello
Society for the Anthropology of Work
Authors: Jancius Angela
Published: May 2007

?Developing Work Alternatives in the Philippines Lynne Milgram
Terms of Engagement
Authors: Devrim G?rsel Zeynep , Hodzic Saida
Published: May 2007

?Of War, Culture and Responsibility Saida Hodzic  ?The Importance of Getting the Story Right First Kendall Thu  ?Engaged Anthropology Zeynep Devrim G?rsel  ?Slipping In and Out of Metaphor Stacy Lathrop
Dietary exposure to low pesticide doses causes long-term immunosuppression in the leopard frog (Rana pipiens)
Authors: Albert Anathea , Drouillard Ken , Haffner G. Douglas , Dixon Brian
Published: May 2007

This study examines the relationship between dietary exposure of pesticides, DDT, and dieldrin and immunosuppression in the northern leopard frog (Rana pipiens). Immune function was measured before, during, and after a 10-week exposure period with the use of both adaptive and innate immunity responses. Exposure to low doses (75 ng/g body wt DDT or 2.1 ng/g dieldrin total dose over the 10 weeks) resulted in significant suppressive effects on antibody production and secondary delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH). The high doses (750 ng/g DDT and 21 ng/g dieldrin), however, did not affect antibody production, DTH, or oxidative burst in a predictable dose–response manner. The differences in magnitude and direction of the effects of the two dosing regimes were likely due to differences in chemical exposure on the basis of feeding and effectiveness of chemical uptake. The low dose results demonstrated that moderate concentrations of pesticides, frequently observed in the environment, are able to weaken the immune response of R. pipiens.
Wildlife ecological screening levels for inhalation of volatile organic chemicals
Authors: Gallegos Patricia , Lutz Jill , Markwiese James , Ryti Randall , Mirenda Rich
Published: May 2007

For most chemicals, evaluation of ecological risk typically does not address inhalation because ingestion dominates exposure. However, burrowing ecological receptors have an increased exposure potential from inhalation at sites contaminated with volatile chemicals in the subsurface. Evaluation of ecological risk from contaminants like volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) is constrained by a lack of relevant ecological screening levels (ESLs). To address this need, inhalation ESLs were developed for 16 VOCs: Acetone, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, chloromethane, dichlorodifluoromethane, 1,1-dichloroethane, 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,1-dichloroethene, methylene chloride, tetrachloroethene, toluene, 1,1,1-trichloroethane, trichloroethene, trichloro-fluoromethane, and total xylene. These ESLs are based on Botta's pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae) as a representative fossorial receptor. The ESLs are presented with an emphasis on the process for developing inhalation toxicity reference values to illustrate the selection of suitable toxicity data and effect levels from the literature. The resulting ESLs provide a quantitative method for evaluating ecological risk of VOCs through comparison to relevant exposure data such as direct burrow-air measurements. The toxicity reference value development and ESL calculation processes and assumptions detailed here are provided as bases from which risk assessors can use or refine to suit site-specific needs with respect to toxicity and exposure inputs.
Application of the biotic ligand model to explain potassium interaction with thallium uptake and toxicity to plankton
Authors: Hassler Christel S. , Chafin Ryan D. , Klinger Mary Beth , Twiss Michael R.
Published: May 2007

Competitive interaction between Tl(I) and K was successfully predicted by the biotic ligand model (BLM) for the microalga Chlorella sp. (Chlorophyta; University of Toronto Culture Collection strain 522) during 96-h toxicity tests. Because of a greater affinity of Tl(I) (log K = 7.3–7.4) as compared to K (log K = 5.3–6.3) for biologically sensitive sites, an excess of 40-to 160-fold of K is required to suppress Tl(I) toxic effects on Chlorella sp., regardless of [Tl(I)] in solution. Similar excess of K is required to suppress Tl(I) toxicity to Synechococcus leopoliensis (Cyanobacteria; University of Texas Culture Collection strain 625) and Brachionus calyciflorus (Rotifera; strain AB-R1F). The mechanism for the mitigating effect of K on Tl(I) toxicity was investigated by measuring 204Tl(I) cellular uptake flux and efflux in Chlorella sp. Potassium shows a competitive effect on Tl(I) uptake fluxes that could be modeled using the BLM-derived stability constants and a Michaelis—Menten relationship. A strong Tl efflux dependent only on the cellular Tl concentration was measured. Although Tl efflux does not explain the effect of K on Tl(I) toxicity and uptake, it is responsible for a high turnover of the cellular Tl pool (intracellular half-life = 12–13.5 min). No effect of Na+, Mg2+, or Ca2+ was observed on Tl+ uptake, whereas the absence of trace metals (Cu, Co, Mo, Mn, Fe, and Zn) significantly increased Tl uptake and decreased the mitigating effect of K+. The importance of K+ in determining the aquatic toxicity of Tl+ underscores the use of ambient K+ concentration in the establishment of Tl water-quality guidelines and the need to consider K in predicting biogeochemical fates of Tl in the aquatic environment.
Emerging pollutants in the North Sea in comparison to Lake Ontario, Canada, data
Authors: Andresen Jens Arne , Muir Derek , Ueno Daisuke , Darling Colin , Theobald Norbert , Bester Kai
Published: May 2007

In the present study, the concentrations and fate of contaminants such as organophosphate flame retardants and plasticizers, musk compounds such as galaxolide (HHCB), tonalide (AHTN), musk ketone and musk xylene, the bactericide triclosan, as well as the metabolites HHCB-lactone and triclosan-methyl were compared in the aqueous phase of the German Bight (North Sea). The concentrations of these compounds were around 1 to 10 ng/L in nearshore areas, and the concentrations were lower in the more pristine areas. The highest concentrations were determined for tris-(2-chloro-isopropyl) phosphate in the North Sea with concentration exceeding 10 ng/L even for the offshore samples. The samples contained 1 to 20 ng/L chlorinated organophosphates, approximately 1 ng/L nonchlorinated organophosphates, and 0.3 to 3 ng/L fragrance compounds. Some samples from Lake Ontario (Canada) were analyzed in comparison. Per capita emissions were calculated for both regions. These emissions were compared and turned out to be very similar for the Canadian and German locations. For the North Sea, some observations concerning stability, dilution, and degradation, as well as sources of the respective substances, were performed. These data indicate that the chlorinated organophosphates and some musk fragrances exhibit half lives exceeding the residence times and thus can be considered to be persistent in this ecosystem. In the German Bight, the river Elbe is the dominating source for the more hydrophilic compounds, such as chlorinated organophosphate flame retardants, which are diluted only into the North Sea. However, for the more lipophilic compounds such as the musk fragrances, different input patterns as well as distribution patterns are relevant, though the river Elbe is still a major source of pollution to the German Bight of the North Sea. The data seem to indicate either relevant inputs further west of the sampling area or mobilization from the sediments.
Analysis of dioxins in contaminated soils with the CALUX and CAFLUX bioassays, an immunoassay, and gas chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Nording Malin , Denison Michael S. , Baston David , Persson Ylva , Spinnel Erik , Haglund Peter
Published: May 2007

The chemically activated luciferase expression assay, the chemically activated fluorescence expression assay, and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) are all bioanalytical methods that have been used for the detection and quantification of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs). However, no comparisons of the results obtained by these three methods have been published analyzing identical replicates of purified sample extracts. Therefore, we have evaluated the performance of each of these methods for analyzing PCDD/Fs in aliquots of extracts from aged-contaminated soil samples and compared the results with those obtained by gas chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry (GC/HRMS). The quantitative performance was assessed and the effects of sample purification and data interpretation on the quality of the bioassay results were investigated. Results from the bioanalytical techniques were, in principle, not significantly different from each other or from the GC/HRMS data (p = 0.05). Furthermore, properly used, all of the bioanalytical techniques examined were found to be sufficiently sensitive, selective, and accurate to be used in connection with soil remediation activities when aiming at the remediation goal recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (i.e., < 1,000 pg toxic equivalency/g). However, a site-specific correction factor should be applied with the use of the ELISA to account for differences between the toxic equivalency factors and the ELISA cross-reactivities of the various PCDD/F congeners, which otherwise might significantly underestimate the PCDD/F content.
Toxicological characterization of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene, its transformation products, and two nitramine explosives
Authors: Neuwoehner Judith , Schofer Andrea , Erlenkaemper Bibiane , Steinbach Klaus , Hund-Rinke Kerstin , Eisentraeger Adolf
Published: May 2007

The soil and groundwater of former ordnance plants and their dumping sites have often been highly contaminated with the explosive 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (2,4,6-TNT) leading to a potential hazard for humans and the environment. Further hazards can arise from metabolites of transformation, by-products of the manufacturing process, or incomplete combustion. This work examines the toxicity of polar nitro compounds relative to their parent compound 2,4,6-TNT using four different ecotoxicological bioassays (algae growth inhibition test, daphnids immobilization test, luminescence inhibition test, and cell growth inhibition test), three genotoxicological assays (umu test, NM2009 test, and SOS Chromotest), and the Ames fluctuation test for detection of mutagenicity. For this study, substances typical for certain steps of degradation/transformation of 2,4,6-TNT were chosen for investigation. This work determines that the parent compounds 2,4,6-TNT and 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene are the most toxic substances followed by 3,5-dinitrophenol, 3,5-dinitroaniline and 4-amino-2-nitrotoluene. Less toxic are the direct degradation products of 2,4,6-TNT like 2,4-dinitrotoluene, 2,6-dinitrotoluene, 2-amino-4,6-dinitrotoluene, and 4-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene. A weak toxic potential was observed for 2,4,6-trinitrobenzoic acid, 2,4-diamino-6-nitrotoluene, 2,4-dinitrotoluene-5-sulfonic acid, and 2,6-diamino-4-nitrotoluene. Octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine and hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine show no hint of acute toxicity. Based on the results of this study, we recommend expanding future monitoring programs of not only the parent substances but also potential metabolites based on conditions at the contaminated sites and to use bioassays as tools for estimating the toxicological potential directly by testing environmental samples. Site-specific protocols should be developed. If hazardous substances are found in relevant concentrations, action should be taken to prevent potential risks for humans and the environment. Analyses can then be used to prioritise reliable estimates of risk.
Biotransformation of caffeine, cotinine, and nicotine in stream sediments: Implications for use as wastewater indicators
Authors: Bradley Paul M. , Barber Larry B. , Kolpin Dana W. , McMahon Peter B. , Chapelle Francis H.
Published: May 2007

Microbially catalyzed cleavage of the imadazole ring of caffeine was observed in stream sediments collected upstream and downstream of municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) in three geographically separate stream systems. Microbial demethylation of the N-methyl component of cotinine and its metabolic precursor, nicotine, also was observed in these sediments. These findings indicate that stream sediment microorganisms are able to substantially alter the chemical structure and thus the analytical signatures of these candidate waste indicator compounds. The potential for in situ biotransformation must be considered if these compounds are employed as markers to identify the sources and track the fate of wastewater compounds in surface-water systems.
All-optical switch based on liquid-crystal infiltrated photonic bandgap fiber in transverse configuration
Authors: Tuominen Jesse , Hoffrén Hannu , Ludvigsen Hanne
Published: May 2007

We demonstrate optically controlled switching in a photonic bandgap fiber filled with liquid crystal using transverse coupling geometry. Fiber samples made from silica and lead silicate are studied. For the latter one, a continuous and fairly flat operating range from 600 to 1700 nm was achieved. The insertion loss was 3 dB and the extinction ratio better than 20 dB.
RAGE polymorphisms and the heritability of insulin resistance: the Leeds Family Study
Authors: Sullivan Clair M , Futers T. Simon , Barrett Jennifer H , Hudson Barry I , Freeman Mark S , Grant Peter J
Published: May 2007

Activation of the receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) leads to a cascade of pro-inflammatory and pro-coagulant responses which are important in the pathogenesis of the vascular complications of diabetes mellitus. It is known that pro-inflammatory mechanisms underpin the development of type 2 diabetes. Our hypothesis is that RAGE may be involved in the evolution of insulin resistance in addition to mediating glucotoxic complications of diabetes mellitus.

Methods To investigate the relationship between RAGE allelic variation and insulin resistance, the Gly82Ser variant and three promoter variants (429, 374, 63 bp deletion) were studied in 480 subjects of known relationship from 89 families characterised for insulin resistance (using homeostasis model assessment [HOMA]) and for atherothrombotic risk. Carriage of the-429 C allele was weakly associated with increased insulin resistance (p=0.02) when pedigree analysis was performed using SOLAR software.

Results Insulin resistance was estimated to have a heritability of 25.8% before the addition of covariates. Analysis of the relationship between RAGE and insulin resistance indicated that the-429 polymorphism reduced the unexplained heritability of insulin resistance after adjusting for covariates (age, sex, body mass index) from 17.5% of the total variance to 15.6% of the total variance.

Conclusions These preliminary results indicate that the RAGE gene may affect the development of insulin resistance or be in linkage disequilibrium with a locus involved in this process.
Thiazolidinediones, peripheral oedema and congestive heart failure: what is the evidence?
Authors: Patel Chetan , Wyne Kathleen L , McGuire Darren K
Published: May 2007

Cardiovascular disease is the most common complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (type 2 DM), accounting for approximately 80% of deaths. While atherosclerotic vascular disease accounts for much of the cardiovascular morbidity and mortality among diabetic patients, congestive heart failure (CHF) is another key complication associated with diabetes, with an incidence three to five times greater in diabetic patients than in those without diabetes.

One of the most promising developments in the treatment of type 2 DM has been the introduction of the thiazolidinedione (TZD) class of drugs, which appear to have pleiotropic effects beyond glycaemic control. Enthusiasm has been tempered, however, by concerns for safety in patients with CHF, given reports of worsening heart failure symptoms and peripheral oedema. With the growing epidemic of type 2 DM and the increasing use of TZDs, such concern has important therapeutic implications for a population of patients with a high prevalence of often subclinical systolic and diastolic dysfunction.

This review provides an overview of the currently available data regarding the effects of TZDs on fluid retention and cardiac function. Particular emphasis is placed on the mechanisms of development of peripheral oedema and its significance in patients with impaired left ventricular function. TZDs are well known to cause an expansion in plasma volume; there has also been concern that TZDs may have direct toxic effects on the myocardium, leading to impaired cardiac function. Studies to date do not support this hypothesis and in fact there is growing evidence from animal models and human trials that treatment with TZDs actually improves cardiac function. There are also preclinical data to suggest TZDs may protect the myocardium in the setting of ischaemic insult or the toxic effects of myocardial lipid deposition. Ongoing clinical trials examining the use of these agents in patients at risk for heart failure will probably provide further insight into the aggregate cardiovascular effects of this promising class of medications.
Cross-sectional evaluation of the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score: a tool to identify undetected type 2 diabetes, abnormal glucose tolerance and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Saaristo Timo , Peltonen Markku , Lindström Jaana , Saarikoski Liisa , Sundvall Jouko , Eriksson Johan Gunnar , Tuomilehto Jaakko
Published: May 2007

The aim of this study was to assess the performance of the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score as a screening tool for undetected type 2 diabetes (T2D), abnormal glucose tolerance (AGT) and metabolic syndrome in the general population.

In a cross-sectional, population-based survey, a total of 4, 622 subjects aged 45–74 years were invited to a health examination that included an oral glucose tolerance test. Full data with risk score estimate and glucose tolerance status were available for 2, 966 subjects without a prior history of diabetes.

The risk score was associated with the presence of previously undiagnosed T2D, AGT, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk factors. The area under the receiver operating curve for the prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes was 0.72 in men and 0.73 in women. The sensitivity using a cutoff risk score of 11 to identify undiagnosed diabetes was 66% in men and 70% in women; the corresponding false-positive rates were 31% and 39%, respectively. The area under the receiver operating curve for detecting the metabolic syndrome was 0.72 in men and 0.75 in women.

The Finnish Diabetes Risk Score can be used as a self-administered test to screen subjects at high risk for T2D. It can also be used in the general population and clinical practice to identify undetected T2D, AGT and the metabolic syndrome.
All obese individuals are not created equal: insulin resistance is the major determinant of cardiovascular disease in overweight/obese individuals
Authors: Reaven Gerald
Published: May 2007

The ability of insulin to mediate glucose disposal varies more than six-fold in an apparently healthy population, and approximately one third of the most insulin-resistant of these individuals are at increased risk to develop cardiovascular disease. Differences in degree of adiposity account for approximately 25% of this variability, and another 25% varies as a function of level of physical fitness. The more overweight/obese the person, the more likely they are to be insulin-resistant and at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, but substantial numbers of overweight/obese individuals remain insulin-sensitive, and not all insulin-resistant persons are obese.

Of greater clinical relevance is evidence that the metabolic benefit and decrease in risk of cardiovascular disease following weight loss occurs primarily in those overweight/obese individuals that are also insulin resistant. The relationship between insulin resistance and overall obesity, as assessed by measurement of body mass index, is essentially the same as the relationship between insulin action and abdominal obesity as quantified by determining waist circumference.

Finally, there appears to be a comparable relationship between insulin-mediated glucose disposal and amount of visceral fat, subcutaneous fat, and total fat as quantified by various imaging techniques, and the magnitude of these relationships is no greater than that between insulin action and simple measure of body mass index.
Biomarkers in acute coronary syndromes and their role in diabetic patients
Authors: Heeschen Christopher
Published: May 2007

Diabetic patients with acute coronary syndromes are at high risk for cardiovascular complications but risk stratification in these patients remains challenging. Regularly, diabetic patients have a less typical clinical presentation, which could lead to delayed diagnosis and subsequent delayed initiation of treatment. Since diabetic patients derive particular benefit from aggressive anti-platelet therapy, early diagnostic and therapeutic risk stratification of these patients is of critical importance to improve their adverse outcome.

Although the electrocardiogram remains a pivotal diagnostic tool in the evaluation of patients suspected of having an acute coronary syndrome, only significant ST-segment changes provide reasonable prognostic information. Therefore, repeated assessment of circulating protein biomarkers represents a valuable diagnostic tool for improving efficacy and safety of decision-making in these patients. The combined use of biomarkers reflecting distinct pathophysiological aspects, such as myocardial necrosis, vascular inflammation, oxidative stress and neurohumoral activation, may significantly improve triage of patients with chest pain. These tools may identify those patients that are at particularly high risk for short-term and/or long-term cardiovascular events. Eventually, tailored medical and interventional treatment of diabetic patients should help to prevent these cardiac events in a cost-effective manner.
Diabetes and percutaneous coronary intervention in the setting of an acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Safley David M , Marso Steven P
Published: May 2007

Diabetes mellitus has reached epidemic proportions worldwide. Patients with diabetes are at increased risk for acute coronary syndromes, and these syndromes lead to frequent morbidity and cardiovascular mortality. Emerging adjunctive pharmacological strategies coupled with the drug-eluting stent platform have resulted in improved adverse event rates for this high-risk group. This review will concentrate on the historical data associated with acute coronary syndromes in diabetes mellitus, focusing on revascularisation, drug-eluting stents and antiplatelet therapies.
Adipose tissue metabolism, diabetes and vascular disease — lessons from in vivo studies
Authors: Summers Lucinda KM
Published: May 2007

There is an epidemic of obesity, insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease. Adipose tissue plays a major metabolic role and produces hormones with important physiological effects. In vitro studies remove regulatory factors, such as blood flow, making results difficult to interpret, and animal studies cannot necessarily be extrapolated to humans. Fortunately, adipose tissue can be studied in vivo with microdialysis, adipose tissue vein cannulation, measurement of blood flow using 133Xenon washout, stable isotope tracers and biopsies. In vivo studies have shown that adipose tissue is an efficient buffer against the postprandial flux of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) in the circulation, protecting other tissues. When there is excess adipose tissue, this buffering effect may be impaired. The postprandial blood flow response is also reduced, potentially causing an atherogenic lipid profile and atheroma. A systems biology approach, combining in vivo techniques with genomics, proteomics and metabolomics, will clarify links between adipose tissue and vascular disease.
Success rates of percutaneous coronary intervention of chronic total occlusions and long-term survival in patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Safley David M , House John A , Rutherford Barry D , Marso Steven P
Published: May 2007

The objectives of this study were to evaluate angiographic and clinical outcomes among patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for a chronic total occlusion (CTO). We compared them with matched patients undergoing PCI of a non-CTO lesion. All patients had documented DM. Matching was performed using a propensity score for CTO.

There were 506 patients with DM and CTO who were matched with a non-CTO group. Results showed that angiographic success rates were lower with CTO (75% vs. 93%, p<0.001). In-hospital major adverse cardiac event (MACE Â death, urgent bypass surgery, Q-wave myocardial infarction or target vessel revascularisation) rates were equivalent (CTO 3.2% vs. non-CTO 2.6%, p=0.57). Survival was not different five years after revascularisation of CTO (75%) vs. non-CTO (79%) (p=0.20). In addition, when DM patients with CTO were analysed according to angiographic success of PCI, there were no significant differences in either in-hospital (success 1.6% vs. failure 2.4%, p=0.7) or 1-year mortality (success 22.2% vs. failure 26.8%, p=0.3).

We conclude that PCI of CTO is safe in patients with DM. Angiographic failure is not associated with an increase in MACE rates or mortality as compared to matched nonCTO patients. However, there is not a measurable improvement in survival in this DM-CTO population.
Risk factors for stroke in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Asfandiyarova Nailya , Kolcheva Nina , Ryazantsev Igor , Ryazantsev Vladimir
Published: May 2007

Stroke is a serious complication of diabetes but the risk factors for stroke in these patients are not fully defined.

The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the risk factors for stroke in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The group comprised 208 patients with T2DM, and the mean duration of follow-up was seven years (range 4–11 years). The incidence of stroke was investigated according to lymphocyte proliferation in response to insulin.

Using cimetidine to inhibit cells with histamine receptors and indometacin to inhibit prostaglandin-synthesising cells, a higher incidence of stroke was found in patients with indirect cell-mediated immunity to insulin.

Therefore, one of the risk factors for stroke in patients with T2DM is high activity of cells with histamine receptors and prostaglandin-synthesising cells. These cells suppress cell-mediated immunity to insulin and may have a role in promoting the development of insulin resistance.
Reducing residual cardiovascular risk: the relevance of raising high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in patients on cholesterol-lowering treatment
Authors: Pedersen Terje R , Assmann Gerd , Bassand Jean-Pierre , Chapman M John , Erbel Raimund , Sirtori Cesare
Published: May 2007

Reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) with statin therapy represents the cornerstone of dyslipidaemia management in patients with cardiovascular disease, as reflected in current treatment guidelines. Yet even among statin-treated patients who achieve LDL-C targets (< 2.59 mmol/L [100 mg/dL]), the residual risk of further cardiovascular events remains unacceptably high. Although clinical studies indicate that intensive LDL-C lowering may provide some additional benefit, this does not suppress the excess cardiovascular risk sufficiently. This European Expert Panel therefore recognises that there is an unmet clinical need in the management of these patients. Additional intervention to modify other clinically important risk factors should be viewed as a priority.

A reduced level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) < 1.03 mmol/L (40 mg/dL) in men and < 1.29 mmol/L (50 mg/dL) in women is an important independent predictive factor for coronary heart disease. HDL-C levels are also predictive of cardiovascular risk in statin-treated patients, irrespective of their LDL-C levels. Therefore, HDL-C represents a logical therapeutic target for reducing cardiovascular risk further in statin-treated patients, including those who achieve LDL-C targets. Given that low HDL-C is common among dyslipidaemic patients with cardiovascular disease, a therapeutic strategy aimed at effectively raising HDL-C, while at the same time lowering LDL-C to target levels, would be expected to offer clinical benefit beyond that achieved through LDL-C reduction alone. Although both nicotinic acid and fibrates raise HDL-C, nicotinic acid has greater potency. Studies show that combination therapy with prolonged-release (PR) nicotinic acid and a statin has an acceptable tolerability profile, normalises an atherogenic lipoprotein profile, and is able to induce regression of atherosclerosis and reduce coronary risk in patients with established cardiovascular disease and suboptimal HDL-C levels.

In conclusion, this European Expert Panel recommends that combination therapy with a statin and an HDL-C raising agent, such as PR nicotinic acid, should be considered in these patients, who remain at high residual risk despite achieving target LDL-C levels with statin monotherapy. Ongoing studies are essential to confirm the clinical outcome benefits of this approach.