bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficiency Improved byH2Forming Gas Treatment for Si-Based Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Cheng Yuang-Tung , Ho Jyh-Jier , Lee William , Tsai Song-Yeu , Chen Liang-Yi , Liou Jia-Jhe , Chang Shun-Hsyung , Shen Huajun , Wang Kang L.
Published: June 2010

The photovoltaic (PV) effects have been investigated and improved using efficient treatments both on single-crystalline (sc) and on multicrystalline (mc) silicon (Si) solar cells. The major effect of forming gas (FG) treatment on solar cell performance is the fill-factor values, which increase 3.75% and 8.28%, respectively, on sc-Si and mc-Si solar cells. As for the optimal 15%-H2ratio and 40-minute FG treatment, the conversion efficiency (η) values drastically increase to 14.89% and 14.31%, respectively, for sc- and mc-Si solar cells. Moreover, we can measure the internal quantum efficiency (IQE) values increase withH2-FG treatment under visible wavelength (400~900 nm) radiation. Thus based on the work in this research, we confirm thatH2passivation has become crucial both in PV as well as in microelectronics fields. Moreover, the developed mc-Si solar cell by properH2FG treatment is quite suitable for commercial applications.
Synostosis of the Proximal Tibiofibular Joint
Authors: Sferopoulos Nikolaos K.
Published: June 2010

The incidence of synostosis of the proximal tibiofibular joint (TFJ) was assessed among 1029 patients examined for osteoarthritis of the knee in a 4-year period. Radiographic evidence of a synostosis of the proximal TFJ was demonstrated in 3 knees (3 patients). The synostosis appeared incidental and was not the cause of symptoms in any of them. These patients were further examined with MRI and/or CT scans. In two cases, which were found to be primary (idiopathic), the synostosis was complete and bony. In a third case the lesion was secondary (acquired) to surgical reconstruction for a depressed fracture of the lateral tibial plateau. This iatrogenic complication followed open reduction, internal fixation, and grafting with synthetic bone. The bridging of the joint on the CT views was partial and compatible with ectopic calcification rather than ossification. The patients were treated conservatively and were followed for an average period of 3 years. No evidence that the synostosis accelerated the onset or progression of the degenerative changes to the ipsilateral knee could be verified.
Combinatory Models for Predicting the Effective Thermal Conductivity of Frozen and Unfrozen Food Materials
Authors: Reddy K. S. , Karthikeyan P
Published: June 2010

A model to predict the effective thermal conductivity of heterogeneous materials is proposed based on unit cell approach. The model is combined with four fundamental effective thermal conductivity models (Parallel, Series, Maxwell-Eucken-I, and Maxwell-Eucken-II) to evolve a unifying equation for the estimation of effective thermal conductivity of porous and nonporous food materials. The effect of volume fraction (ν) on the structure composition factor (ψ) of the food materials is studied. The models are compared with the experimental data of various foods at the initial freezing temperature. The effective thermal conductivity estimated by the Maxwell-Eucken-I + Present model shows good agreement with the experimental data with a minimum average deviation of ±8.66% and maximum deviation of ±42.76% of Series + Present Model. The combined models have advantages over other empirical and semiempirical models.
Leaves and Seeds as Materials for Flow Cytometric Estimation of the Genome Size of 11 Rosaceae Woody Species Containing DNA-Staining Inhibitors
Authors: Jedrzejczyk Iwona , Sliwinska Elwira
Published: June 2010

The presence of some secondary metabolites in the cell cytosol can cause a stoichiometric error in the flow cytometric estimation of nuclear DNA content. There is no fully reliable method to completely eliminate the effect of these compounds on nuclei fluorescence, and therefore using plant organs/parts free of staining inhibitors is recommended. Eleven species of Rosaceae with high concentrations of propidium-iodide-staining inhibitors were studied to check the possibility of using seeds instead of leaves for genome size estimation. Despite optimizing the concentration and composition of antioxidants in nuclei-isolation buffer for each species, the effect of cytosolic compounds present in the leaves could not be avoided entirely. None of the seeds of the studied species contained inhibitors, and they produced histograms of good quality. The genome size of the studied species ranged from 1.15 to 3.17 pg/2C; for 10 species the DNA content was estimated for the first time.
Orography‐Induced Gravity Wave Drag Parameterization in the Global WRF: Implementation and Sensitivity to Shortwave Radiation Schemes
Authors: Shin Hyeyum Hailey , Hong Song-You , Dudhia Jimy , Kim Young-Joon
Published: June 2010

This paper describes the implementation of the orographic gravity wave drag (GWDO) processes induced by subgrid‐scale orography in the global version of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. The sensitivity of the model simulated climatology to the representation of shortwave radiation and the addition of the GWDO processes is investigated using the Kim‐Arakawa GWDO parameterization and the Goddard, RRTMG (Rapid Radiative Transfer Model for GCMs), and Dudhia shortwave radiation schemes. This sensitivity study is a part of efforts of selecting the physics package that can be useful in applying the WRF model to global and seasonal configuration. The climatology is relatively well simulated by the global WRF; the zonal mean zonal wind and temperature structures are reasonably represented with the Kim‐Arakawa GWDO scheme using the Goddard and RRTMG shortwave schemes. It is found that the impact of the shortwave radiation scheme on the modeled atmosphere is pronounced in the upper atmospheric circulations above the tropopause mainly due to the ozone heating. The scheme that excludes the ozone process suffers from a distinct cold bias in the stratosphere. Moreover, given the improper thermodynamic environment conditions by the shortwave scheme, the role of the GWDO process is found to be limited.
Plasma Cytokines and Future Risk of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): A Case-Control Study Nested in the Italian European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition
Authors: Saberi Hosnijeh Fatemeh , Krop Esmeralda J.M. , Scoccianti Chiara , Krogh Vittorio , Palli Domenico , Panico Salvatore , Tumino Rosario , Sacredote Carlotta , Nawroly Niga , Portengen Lützen , Linseisen Jakob , Vineis Paolo , Vermeulen Roel
Published: June 2010

Background: Recently, biological markers related to the immune system such as cytokines have been studied to further understand the etiology of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL). However, to date, there are no studies that have studied cytokine levels prospectively in relation to NHL risk in the general population.

Methods: Using bead-based immunoassays, plasma levels of 11 cytokines, 4 chemokines, and 1 adhesion molecules were measured in prediagnostic blood samples of 86 NHL cases and 86 matched controls (average time between blood collection and diagnosis, 4.5 y). Conditional logistic regression adjusted for body mass index and alcohol consumption was used to analyze the association between individual plasma cytokine levels and the risk of developing NHL.

Results: In multivariate models, excluding cases diagnosed within 2 years after inclusion, we observed a significant association for interleukin 2 (IL2; P trend = 0.004), interferon (IFN)-γ (P trend = 0.05), and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM) (P trend = 0.04). Subanalyses of B-cell NHL patients showed a significant association with IL2 (P trend = 0.003), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α; P trend = 0.03), and ICAM (P trend = 0.04) and a borderline association with IL5 (P trend = 0.07) and IFN-γ (P trend = 0.08).

Conclusions: The results of this study suggest, in a prospective setting, a possible association between plasma levels of IL2, ICAM, IFN-γ, and TNF-α with NHL risk and provide some evidence that risk of NHL might be related to a downregulation of T helper 1 cytokines.

Impact: Identification of subtle changes in immune response regulation quantified by plasma cytokine levels possibly provides new insights in the etiology of NHL. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(6); 1577–84. ©2010 AACR.
Adolescent Diet and Subsequent Serum Hormones, Breast Density, and Bone Mineral Density in Young Women: Results of the Dietary Intervention Study in Children Follow-up Study
Authors: Dorgan Joanne F. , Liu Lea , Klifa Catherine , Hylton Nola , Shepherd John A. , Stanczyk Frank Z. , Snetselaar Linda G. , Van Horn Linda , Stevens Victor J. , Robson Alan , Kwiterovich Peter O. , Lasser Norman L. , Himes John H. , Pettee Gabriel Kelley , Kriska Andrea , Ruder Elizabeth H. , Fang Carolyn Y. , Barton Bruce A.
Published: June 2010

Background: Adolescent diet is hypothesized to influence breast cancer risk. We evaluated the long-term effects of an intervention to lower fat intake among adolescent girls on biomarkers that are related to breast cancer risk in adults.

Methods: A follow-up study was conducted on 230 girls who participated in the Dietary Intervention Study in Children (DISC), in which healthy, prepubertal, 8 to 10 year olds were randomly assigned to usual care or to a behavioral intervention that promoted a reduced fat diet. Participants were 25 to 29 years old at follow-up visits. All tests of statistical significance are two-sided.

Results: In analyses that did not take account of diet at the time of the follow-up visit, the only statistically significant treatment group difference was higher bone mineral content in intervention group participants compared with usual care group participants; their mean bone mineral contents were 2,444 and 2,377 g, respectively. After adjustment for current diet, the intervention group also had statistically significantly higher bone mineral density and luteal phase serum estradiol concentrations. Serum progesterone concentrations and breast density did not differ by treatment group in unadjusted or adjusted analyses.

Conclusions: Results do not support the hypothesis that consumption of a lower fat diet during adolescence reduces breast cancer risk via effects on subsequent serum estradiol and progesterone levels, breast density, or bone mineral density. It remains unclear, however, if the results are specific to the DISC intervention or are more broadly applicable.

Impact: Modest reductions in fat intake during adolescence are unlikely to lower later breast cancer risk via long-term effects on the biomarkers measured. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(6); 1545–56. ©2010 AACR.
Chlamydia pneumoniaeInfection and Risk for Lung Cancer
Authors: Chaturvedi Anil K. , Gaydos Charlotte A. , Agreda Patricia , Holden Jeffrey P. , Chatterjee Nilanjan , Goedert James J. , Caporaso Neil E. , Engels Eric A.
Published: June 2010

Background: We evaluated the relationship of Chlamydia pneumoniae infection with prospective lung cancer risk using traditional serologic markers [microimmunoflourescence (MIF) IgG and IgA antibodies] and Chlamydia heat shock protein-60 (CHSP-60) antibodies, a marker for chronic chlamydial infection.

Methods: We conducted a nested case-control study (593 lung cancers and 671 controls) within the screening arm of the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial (N = 77,464). Controls were matched to cases by age, sex, randomization year, follow-up time, and smoking (pack-years of smoking, time since quitting). We assessed C. pneumoniae seropositivity and endpoint antibody titers (IgG and IgA against C. pneumoniae elementary bodies and IgG against CHSP-60).

Results: C. pneumoniae seropositivity by microimmunoflourescence IgG or IgA antibodies was not associated with lung cancer [odds ratio of 0.88 and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of 0.69-1.13 for IgG; odds ratio of 0.98 and 95% CI of 0.75-1.27 for IgA]. In contrast, individuals seropositive for CHSP-60 IgG antibodies had significantly increased lung cancer risk (odds ratio, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.02-1.67), and risk increased with increasing antibody titers (P trend = 0.006). CHSP-60–related risk did not differ significantly by lung cancer histology, follow-up time, or smoking. CHSP-60 seropositivity was associated with increased risk 2 to 5 years before lung cancer diagnosis (odds ratio, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.16-2.71; P trend = 0.006), thus arguing against reverse causality.

Conclusions: CHSP-60 seropositivity and elevated antibody titers were associated with significantly increased risk for subsequent lung cancer, supporting an etiologic role for C. pneumoniae infection in lung carcinogenesis.

Impact: Our results highlight the potential for lung cancer risk reduction through treatments targeted toward C. pneumoniae infections and chronic pulmonary inflammation. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(6); 1498–505. ©2010 AACR.
Epidemiology of Extracutaneous Melanoma in the Netherlands
Authors: Koomen Els R. , de Vries Esther , van Kempen Leon C. , van Akkooi Alexander C.J. , Guchelaar Henk Jan , Louwman Marieke W.J. , Nijsten Tamar , Coebergh Jan-Willem W.
Published: June 2010

Background: Reliable population-based incidence and survival data on extracutaneous melanoma (ECM) are sparse.

Methods: Incidence data (1989-2006) from the Netherlands Cancer Registry were combined with vital status on January 1, 2008. Age-adjusted annual incidence rates were calculated by direct standardization, and the estimated annual percentage change was estimated to detect changing trends in incidence. Additionally, we carried out cohort-based relative survival analysis.

Results: Ocular melanomas were the most common ECM subsite with European standardized incidence rates (ESR) of 10.7 and 8.2 per 1,000,000 person-years for males and females, respectively. In comparison, for cutaneous melanoma (CM), the ESRs for men and women were 122 and 155 per million person-years, respectively. No statistically significant trends in the incidence of ECM were detected, whereas an annual increase of 4.4% for men and 3.6% for women was detected in the incidence of CM. Relative survival for ECM was poor, but differed largely between anatomic subtypes ranging from a 5-year relative survival of 74% for ocular melanomas to 15% for certain subsites of mucosal melanomas.

Conclusions: Of all ECM subsites, ocular melanomas had the highest incidence and the best survival. Mucosal melanomas were the second most frequent subsite of ECM. Five-year relative survival for all ECM subtypes was worse if compared with CM. No statistically significant trends in the incidence of (subsites of) ECM were determined.

Impact: This study gives insight into the relative sizes of the different subgroups of ECM as well as an estimate of 5-year survival, which varies substantially by subsite. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(6); 1453–9. ©2010 AACR.
Spatial Patterns of Localized-Stage Prostate Cancer Incidence Among White and Black Men in the Southeastern United States, 1999-2001
Authors: Altekruse Sean F. , Huang Lan , Cucinelli James E. , McNeel Timothy S. , Wells Kristen M. , Oliver M. Norman
Published: June 2010

Background: In the United States, prostate cancer incidence is higher among black than among white males, with a higher proportion of blacks diagnosed with advanced-stage cancer.

Methods: Prostate cancer incidence (1999-2001) and census tract data were obtained for 66,468 cases in four states that account for 20% of U.S. blacks: Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and Tennessee. Spatial clusters of localized-stage prostate cancer incidence were detected by spatial scan. Clusters were examined by relative risk, population density, and socioeconomic and racial attributes.

Results: Overall prostate cancer incidence rates were higher in black than in white men, and a lower proportion of black cases were diagnosed with localized-stage cancer. Strong associations were seen between urban residence and high relative risk of localized-stage cancer. The highest relative risks generally occurred in clusters with a lower percent black population than the national average. Conversely, of eight nonurban clusters with significantly elevated relative risk of localized-disease, seven had a higher proportion of blacks than the national average. Furthermore, positive correlations between percent black population and relative risk of localized-stage cancer were seen in Alabama and Georgia.

Conclusion: Association between urban residence and high relative risk of localized-stage disease (favorable prognosis) persisted after spatial clusters were stratified by percent black population. Unexpectedly, seven of eight nonurban clusters with high relative risk of localized-stage disease had a higher percentage of blacks than the U.S. population.

Impact: Although evidence of racial disparity in prostate cancer was found, there were some encouraging findings. Studies of community-level factors that might contribute to these findings are recommended. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(6); 1460–7. ©2010 AACR.
Low-Penetrance Susceptibility Variants in Familial Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Niittymäki Iina , Kaasinen Eevi , Tuupanen Sari , Karhu Auli , Järvinen Heikki , Mecklin Jukka-Pekka , Tomlinson Ian P.M. , Di Bernardo Maria Chiara , Houlston Richard S. , Aaltonen Lauri A.
Published: June 2010

Background: Genomewide association studies have identified 10 low-penetrance loci that confer modestly increased risk for colorectal cancer (CRC). Although they underlie a significant proportion of CRC in the general population, their impact on the familial risk for CRC has yet to be formally enumerated. The aim of this study was to examine the combined contribution of the 10 variants, rs6983267, rs4779584, rs4939827, rs16892766, rs10795668, rs3802842, rs4444235, rs9929218, rs10411210, and rs961253, on familial CRC.

Methods: The population-based series of CRC samples included in this study consisted of 97 familial cases and 691 sporadic cases. Genotypes in the 10 loci and clinical data, including family history of cancer verified from the Finnish Cancer Registry, were available. The overall number of risk alleles (0-20) was determined, and its association with familial CRC was analyzed. Excess familial risk was estimated using cancer incidence data from the first-degree relatives of the cases.

Results: A linear association between the number of risk alleles and familial CRC was observed (P = 0.006). With each risk-allele addition, the odds of having an affected first-degree relative increased by 1.16 (95% confidence interval, 1.04-1.30). The 10 low-penetrance loci collectively explain ∼9% of the variance in familial risk for CRC.

Conclusions: This study provides evidence to support the previous indirect estimations that these low-penetrance variants account for a relatively small proportion of the familial aggregation of CRC.

Impact: Our results emphasize the need to characterize the remaining molecular basis of familial CRC, which should eventually yield in individualized targeting of preventive interventions. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(6); 1478–83. ©2010 AACR.
Occupational Exposure to Silica and Lung Cancer: Pooled Analysis of Two Case-Control Studies in Montreal, Canada
Authors: Vida Stephen , Pintos Javier , Parent Marie-Élise , Lavoué Jerome , Siemiatycki Jack
Published: June 2010

Background: Respirable crystalline silica is a highly prevalent occupational exposure and a recognized lung carcinogen. Most previous studies have focused on selected high-exposure occupational groups. This study examines the relationship between occupational exposure to silica and lung cancer in an occupationally diverse male population.

Methods: Two large population-based case-control studies of lung cancer were conducted in Montreal, one in 1979-1986 (857 cases, 533 population controls, 1,349 cancer controls) and the second in 1996-2001 (738 cases and 899 controls). Interviews provided descriptive lifetime job histories, smoking histories, and other information. Industrial hygienists translated job histories into histories of exposure to a host of occupational substances, including silica. Relative risk was estimated, adjusting for several potential confounders, including smoking.

Results: The odds ratio for substantial exposure to silica was 1.67 (95% confidence interval, 1.21-2.31) and for any exposure was 1.31 (95% confidence interval, 1.08-1.59). Joint effects between silica and smoking were between additive and multiplicative, perhaps closer to the latter. In this population, it is estimated that approximately 3% of lung cancers were attributable to substantial silica exposure.

Conclusions: The carcinogenicity of inhaled crystalline silica was observed in a population with a wide variety of exposure circumstances.

Impact: The finding of carcinogenicity across a wide range of occupations complements prior studies of specific high-exposure occupations. This suggests that the burden of cancer induced by silica may be much greater than previously thought. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(6); 1602–11. ©2010 AACR.
A Case-Control Study of Body Mass Index and Breast Cancer Risk in White and African-American Women
Authors: Berstad Paula , Coates Ralph J. , Bernstein Leslie , Folger Suzanne G. , Malone Kathleen E. , Marchbanks Polly A. , Weiss Linda K. , Liff Jonathan M. , McDonald Jill A. , Strom Brian L. , Simon Michael S. , Deapen Dennis , Press Michael F. , Burkman Ronald T. , Spirtas Robert , Ursin Giske
Published: June 2010

Objective: Large body size has been associated with decreased risk of breast cancer in premenopausal women but with increased risk in postmenopausal women. Limited information is available about African-American women and differences by estrogen and progesterone receptor status.

Methods: We analyzed data from the Women's Contraceptive and Reproductive Experiences Study among 3,997 white and African-American breast cancer case patients diagnosed in 1994 to 1998 and 4,041 control participants ages 35 to 64 years. We calculated multivariate odds ratios (OR) as measures of relative risk of breast cancer associated with self-reported body mass index (BMI) at age 18 and 5 years before diagnosis (recent BMI).

Results: Risk tended to decrease with increasing BMI at age 18 years in all women [ORBMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 versus < 20 kg/m2 = 0.76; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.63-0.90; Ptrend = 0.005] and with recent BMI in premenopausal women (ORBMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 versus < 25 kg/m2 = 0.81; 95% CI, 0.61-1.06; Ptrend = 0.05), unmodified by race. Among postmenopausal white but not African-American women, there was an inverse relation between recent BMI and risk. High recent BMI was associated with increased risk of estrogen receptor– and progesterone receptor–positive tumors among postmenopausal African-American women (ORBMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 versus < 25 kg/m2 = 1.83; 95% CI, 1.08-3.09; Ptrend = 0.03).

Conclusion: Among women at age 35 to 64 years, BMI at age 18 years is inversely associated with risk of breast cancer, but association with recent BMI varies by menopause status, race, and hormone receptor status.

Impact: Our findings indicate that studies of BMI and breast cancer should consider breast cancer subtypes. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(6); 1532–44. ©2010 AACR.
FAS and FASLG Genetic Variants and Risk for Second Primary Malignancy in Patients with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck
Authors: Lei Dapeng , Sturgis Erich M. , Wang Li-E , Liu Zhensheng , Zafereo Mark E. , Wei Qingyi , Li Guojun
Published: June 2010

Background: Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the promoter region of the FAS and FASLG may alter the transcriptional activity of these genes. We therefore investigated the association between the FAS and FASLG polymorphisms and risk for second primary malignancy (SPM) after index squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN).

Methods: We used log-rank test and Cox proportional hazard models to assess the association of the four single-nucleotide polymorphisms (FAS -1377 G > A, FAS -670 A > G, FASLG -844 C > T, and FASLG -124 A > G) with the SPM-free survival and SPM risk among 1,286 incident SCCHN patients.

Results: Compared with patients having the FAS -670 AA or the FASLG -844 CC genotypes, the patients having variant genotypes of FAS -670 AG/GG or FASLG -844 CT/TT genotypes had significantly increased risk for SPM, respectively. A trend for significantly increased SPM risk with increasing number of risk genotypes of the four polymorphisms was observed in a dose-response manner. Moreover, the patients with three or four combined risk genotypes had an ∼1.8- or 2.5-fold increased risk for developing SPM compared with patients with zero or one risk genotypes, respectively.

Conclusions: Our results suggest a modestly increased risk for SPM after index SCCHN with FAS -670 A > G and FASLG -844 C > T polymorphisms and an even greater risk for SPM with multiple combined FAS and FASLG risk genotypes.

Impact: The FAS and FASLG polymorphisms may serve as a susceptible marker for SCCHN patients at high SPM risk. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(6); 1484–91. ©2010 AACR.
Evaluation of Plakophilin-3 mRNA as a Biomarker for Detection of Circulating Tumor Cells in Gastrointestinal Cancer Patients
Authors: Valladares-Ayerbes Manuel , Díaz-Prado Silvia , Reboredo Margarita , Medina Vanessa , Lorenzo-Patiño Maria J. , Iglesias-Díaz Pilar , Haz Mar , Pértega Sonia , Santamarina Isabel , Blanco Moises , Quindós-Varela Maria , Figueroa Angélica , Antón-Aparicio Luis M.
Published: June 2010

Background: This study aims to assess Plakophilin-3 (PKP3) as a surrogate biomarker of circulating tumor cells in patients with gastrointestinal cancer.

Methods: The primary aim is to estimate the diagnostic accuracy of PKP3 real-time reverse transcriptase-PCR in blood. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed. Correlations between the blood PKP3 levels and the clinicopathologic features of the study subjects were analyzed. Logistic regression was used to predict outcomes based on PKP3.

Results: Sixty-four patients with gastrointestinal cancer and 23 controls were included. The mean relative PKP3 mRNA expression was 48.45 in cancer patients and 2.8 in controls (P < 0.0001). Comparing the PKP3 levels in patients and controls, the area under the curve was 0.852 (95% confidence interval, 0.76-0.94; P < 0.0001) in receiver operating characteristic analysis. A higher blood level of PKP3 mRNA was associated with a more advanced stage (P = 0.025), pT3-4 tumors (P = 0.028), metastasis (P = 0.021), and residual (R2) disease (P = 0.037). Higher PKP3 mRNA was associated with the risk of cancer progression and death (odds ratio, 3.875; 95% confidence interval, 1.781-8.430; P = 0.001).

Conclusions: Increased PKP3 mRNA was detected in the blood of gastrointestinal cancer patients. Significant correlations were found with advanced stage, pT3-4, metastatic disease, and the residual disease status. PKP3 mRNA in blood was associated with the risk of cancer progression and death.

Impact: PKP3 mRNA can be used as a marker of subclinical disease in gastrointestinal cancer and thus holds potential clinical relevance as a predictor for disease outcome. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(6); 1432–40. ©2010 AACR.
Circulating Folate, Vitamin B12, Homocysteine, Vitamin B12 Transport Proteins, and Risk of Prostate Cancer: a Case-Control Study, Systematic Review, and Meta-analysis
Authors: Collin Simon M. , Metcalfe Chris , Refsum Helga , Lewis Sarah J. , Zuccolo Luisa , Smith George Davey , Chen Lina , Harris Ross , Davis Michael , Marsden Gemma , Johnston Carole , Lane J. Athene , Ebbing Marta , Bønaa Kaare Harald , Nygård Ottar , Ueland Per Magne , Grau Maria V. , Baron John A. , Donovan Jenny L. , Neal David E. , Hamdy Freddie C. , Smith A. David , Martin Richard M.
Published: June 2010

Background: Disturbed folate metabolism is associated with an increased risk of some cancers. Our objective was to determine whether blood levels of folate, vitamin B12, and related metabolites were associated with prostate cancer risk.

Methods: Matched case-control study nested within the U.K. population–based Prostate testing for cancer and Treatment (ProtecT) study of prostate-specific antigen–detected prostate cancer in men ages 50 to 69 years. Plasma concentrations of folate, B12 (cobalamin), holo-haptocorrin, holo-transcobalamin total transcobalamin, and total homocysteine (tHcy) were measured in 1,461 cases and 1,507 controls. ProtecT study estimates for associations of folate, B12, and tHcy with prostate cancer risk were included in a meta-analysis, based on a systematic review.

Results: In the ProtecT study, increased B12 and holo-haptocorrin concentrations showed positive associations with prostate cancer risk [highest versus lowest quartile of B12 odds ratio (OR) = 1.17 (95% confidence interval, 0.95-1.43); Ptrend = 0.06; highest versus lowest quartile of holo-haptocorrin OR = 1.27 (1.04-1.56); Ptrend = 0.01]; folate, holo-transcobalamin, and tHcy were not associated with prostate cancer risk. In the meta-analysis, circulating B12 levels were associated with an increased prostate cancer risk [pooled OR = 1.10 (1.01-1.19) per 100 pmol/L increase in B12; P = 0.002]; the pooled OR for the association of folate with prostate cancer was positive [OR = 1.11 (0.96-1.28) per 10 nmol/L; P = 0.2) and conventionally statistically significant if ProtecT (the only case-control study) was excluded [OR = 1.18 (1.00-1.40) per 10 nmol/L; P = 0.02].

Conclusion: Vitamin B12 and (in cohort studies) folate were associated with increased prostate cancer risk.

Impact: Given current controversies over mandatory fortification, further research is needed to determine whether these are causal associations. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(6); 1632–42. ©2010 AACR.
Risk Factors for Ductal, Lobular, and Mixed Ductal-Lobular Breast Cancer in a Screening Population
Authors: Phipps Amanda I. , Li Christopher I. , Kerlikowske Karla , Barlow William E. , Buist Diana S. M.
Published: June 2010

Background: Biological distinctions between histologic subtypes of breast cancer suggest etiologic differences, although few studies have been powered to examine such differences. We compared associations between several factors and risk of ductal, lobular, and mixed ductal-lobular breast cancers.

Methods: We used risk factor data from the Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium for 3,331,744 mammograms on 1,211,238 women, including 19,119 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer following mammography (n = 14,818 ductal, 1,602 lobular, and 1,601 mixed ductal-lobular). Histologic subtype–specific risk factor associations were evaluated using Cox regression.

Results: Significant positive associations with family history and breast density were similar across subtypes. Hormone therapy use was associated with increased risk of all subtypes, but was most strongly associated with lobular cancer [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.46; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.25-1.70]. Relative to nulliparous women, parous women had lower risk of ductal and mixed but not lobular cancers (HR = 0.80; 95% CI, 0.76-0.84; HR = 0.79; 95% CI, 0.68-0.93; HR = 0.96; 95% CI, 0.81-1.15, respectively). Late age at first birth was associated with increased risk of all subtypes.

Conclusions: Similarities in risk factor associations with ductal, lobular, and mixed breast cancer subtypes were more pronounced than differences. Distinctions between subtype-specific associations were limited to analyses of hormone therapy use and reproductive history.

Impact: The results of this study indicate that the strongest risk factors for breast cancer overall (that is, family history and breast density) are not histologic subtype specific. Additional studies are needed to better characterize subtype-specific associations with genetic, hormonal, and nonhormonal factors. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(6); 1643–54. ©2010 AACR.
Presentation, Etiology, Diagnosis, and Management of Camptocormia
Authors: Finsterer Josef , Strobl Walter
Published: June 2010

Camptocormia (bent spine syndrome, cyphose hystérique) is an abnormality characterized by severe forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine which typically increases during walking or standing and completely disappears in supine position. Camptocormia can be due to central nervous system diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, multisystem atrophy, or Alzheimer’s disease, due to peripheral nervous system diseases, such as primary myopathy, secondary myopathy, motor neuron disease, myasthenia, or chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, due to side effects of drug treatment, due to disc herniation, arthritis or spinal trauma, or due to paraneoplasia. Only rarely may camptocormia be attributable to psychiatric disease. The diagnosis is based on clinical findings, imaging of the cerebrum or spine, needle electromyography, or muscle biopsy. Treatment options are limited and frequently futile and rely on conservative measures, such as psychotherapy, physiotherapy, use of orthoses, drugs, injection of botulinum toxin, withdrawal of causative drugs, electroconvulsive therapy, or invasive measures, such as surgical correction or deep brain stimulation. The outcome is generally fair. Some patients profit from therapy whereas others do not respond to treatment and become progressively immobile.
Global Transcriptional Analysis of Bacillus licheniformis Reveals an Overlap between Heat Shock and Iron Limitation Stimulon
Authors: Nielsen Allan K. , Breüner Anne , Krzystanek Marcin , Andersen Jens T. , Poulsen Thomas A. , Olsen Peter B. , Mijakovic Ivan , Rasmussen Michael D.
Published: June 2010

In this study, we characterized the heat shock stimulon of the important industrial microorganism Bacillus licheniformis using DNA microarrays. While sharing a high degree of homology with the closely related model organism Bacillus subtilis, the heat shock stimulon of B. licheniformis exhibited several novel and unexpected features. Most notably, heat shock in B. licheniformis resulted in decreased amounts of mRNA from the ytrABCEF operon, encoding a putative acetoin uptake system, and stimulated the transcription of purine biosynthesis and iron uptake genes. Unexpectedly, deletion of the ytrEF genes did not affect acetoin uptake, but increased heat sensitivity. To investigate the connection between heat stress and iron uptake further, we analyzed the iron limitation response of B. licheniformis by DNA microarrays and concluded that the response mostly involves the genes related to iron uptake and metabolism, while the only heat shock gene affected by iron limitation was clpE. We also attempted to delete the fur gene (encoding the ferric uptake repressor), but unexpectedly found it to be essential in B. licheniformis. Using the fluorescent protein-encoding reporter gene under control of the dhb promoter, which responded to both heat shock and iron-starvation, we confirmed the overlap between these responses.
Thalamic Deep Brain Stimulation for the Treatment of Action Myoclonus Caused by Perinatal Anoxia
Authors: Kobayashi Kazutaka , Katayama Yoichi , Otaka Toshiharu , Obuchi Toshiki , Kano Toshikazu , Nagaoka Takafumi , Kasai Masahiko , Oshima Hideki , Fukaya Chikashi , Yamamoto Takamitsu
Published: June 2010

Background: Perinatal anoxia rarely causes myoclonus as the main neurologic abnormality. The exact neuronal mechanism underlying myoclonus induced by perinatal anoxia remains unknown. Some studies have indicated that the development of involuntary movements may be related to the maturation of the thalamus after birth. Objectives and Methods: Here, we describe the first case of a patient who developed action myoclonus after experiencing perinatal anoxia and was successfully treated by chronic deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the thalamus (thalamic DBS). Results andConclusion: The effectiveness of chronic thalamic DBS in this patient supports the concept of involvement of the thalamus in postperinatal anoxic myoclonus.
Is There a Role for Adjuvant Treatment after Hepatic Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma?
Authors: Tan Ann , Aucejo Federico , Kim Richard
Published: June 2010

The only curative treatment option for hepatocellular carcinoma patients is either a surgical resection or liver transplantation. Due to limited supply of donor organs and the stringent selection criteria for liver transplantation, resection is the mainstay of therapy, particularly for patients with preserved liver function and small tumors with no portal hypertension. However, tumor recurrences and subsequent death is common after resection, which has prompted a search for an effective adjuvant therapy to improve patient outcomes. Studies have looked at various adjuvant treatment modalities, including systemic chemotherapy, intra-arterial approaches with or without chemotherapy, and the use of cytokines, but there is still no established role for adjuvant therapy after a curative liver resection. Unfortunately, many of these trials lack adequate sample sizes, and are heterogeneous in the patient populations and study end points, thereby limiting robust conclusions. Based on current available data, the role of adjuvant therapy after liver resection needs to be further investigated. The use of molecular targeted therapy focusing on the vascular endothelial growth factor pathway appears to be a promising step. Clinical trials assessing adjuvant therapies after a curative liver resection are urgently needed. These should ideally be prospective, randomized trials with properly selected patients and appropriate end points.
High-Level Connexin Expression in the Human Juxtaglomerular Apparatus
Authors: Kurtz Lisa , Madsen Kirsten , Kurt Birgül , Jensen Boye L. , Walter Steen , Banas Bernhard , Wagner Charlotte , Kurtz Armin
Published: June 2010

Recent evidence obtained in rodents indicates that gap junctions in the juxtaglomerular apparatus play an important role in the control of renin-producing cells and in tubuloglomerular signaling. These gap junctions are formed by cell-specific expression patterns of the vascular connexins Cx37, Cx40, Cx43 and Cx45. In order to obtain a first indication if gap junctions might play a similar important functional role in the juxtaglomerular apparatus of human kidneys, this study aimed to characterize the juxtaglomerular localization of Cx40, Cx37, Cx43 and Cx45 in human kidney specimens. We found Cx37, Cx40 and Cx43, but not Cx45 expression in high density in the extraglomerular mesangium. Renin-producing cells displayed strong immunoreactivity for Cx40 and Cx37. Cx37, Cx40 and Cx43 were also seen in the endothelium of arteries/arterioles outside of the glomeruli, whereas Cx45 was located in vascular smooth muscle cells. All four connexins were also expressed within the glomeruli. These findings indicate that the expression pattern of vascular connexins in the human kidney cortex is very similar to that previously found for mouse and rat kidneys, suggesting that the intrarenal expression pattern of vascular connexins is conserved among the mammalian species. Because of this similarity, and in particular in view of the strong expression of Cx37 and Cx40 in the juxtaglomerular area, we infer that those functions of connexins that have already been demonstrated for rodent kidneys, such as a central role of Cx40 for the development and function of renin-producing cells and for tubuloglomerular signal transmission, might hold for human kidneys as well.
The Systemic Pro-Inflammatory Response in Sepsis
Authors: de Jong Hanna Katrien , van der Poll Tom , Wiersinga Willem Joost
Published: June 2010

The systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is the predominantly cytokine-mediated, pro-inflammatory response of the host to invading pathogens and is considered the hallmark sign of sepsis. Molecular components of this response can be divided into cytokines, plasma cascades and acute phase proteins while the predominant cellular components are leukocytes and the endothelium. High-throughput genetic profiling studies have led to increased insights into leukocyte regulation during sepsis. New players in the pro-inflammatory cytokine network include interleukin-17, high-mobility group box-1 protein, macrophage migration inhibitory factor, the myeloid-related proteins Mrp8 and Mrp14, and soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1. Activation of coagulation with concurrent downregulation of anticoagulant systems and fibrinolysis are almost universally present in septic patients with SIRS. Increasing evidence points to an extensive cross-talk between inflammation and coagulation, in which the protease-activated cell receptors play an important role. Sepsis causes excessive activation of the complement system in which C5a plays a key part. Further dissection of the role of host-pathogen interactions, the cytokine network, the coagulation cascade, the complement system and their multidirectional interactions in sepsis will pave the way for new treatment targets that can modify the excessive and collective activation of all these systems.
Outcomes in Patients With De Novo Left Main Disease Treated With Either Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Using Paclitaxel-Eluting Stents or Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Treatment in the Synergy Between Percutaneous Coronary Intervention With TAXUS and Cardiac Surgery (SYNTAX) Trial
Authors: Morice Marie-Claude , Serruys Patrick W. , Kappetein A. Pieter , Feldman Ted E. , Ståhle Elisabeth , Colombo Antonio , Mack Michael J. , Holmes David R. , Torracca Lucia , van Es Gerrit-Anne , Leadley Katrin , Dawkins Keith D. , Mohr Friedrich
Published: June 2010

Background—

The prospective, multinational, randomized Synergy Between Percutaneous Coronary Intervention With TAXUS and Cardiac Surgery (SYNTAX) trial was designed to assess the optimal revascularization strategy between percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), for patients with left main (LM) and/or 3-vessel coronary disease.

Methods and Results—

This observational hypothesis-generating analysis reports the results of a prespecified powered subgroup of 705 randomized patients who had LM disease among the 1800 patients with de novo 3-vessel disease and/or LM disease randomized to PCI with paclitaxel-eluting stents or CABG in the SYNTAX trial. Major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular event rates at 1 year in LM patients were similar for CABG and PCI (13.7% versus 15.8%; Δ2.1% [95% confidence interval −3.2% to 7.4%];
P
=0.44). At 1 year, stroke was significantly higher in the CABG arm (2.7% versus 0.3%; Δ−2.4% [95% confidence interval −4.2% to −0.1%];
P
=0.009]), whereas repeat revascularization was significantly higher in the PCI arm (6.5% versus 11.8%; Δ5.3% [95% confidence interval 1.0% to 9.6%];
P
=0.02); there was no observed difference between groups for other end points. When patients were scored for anatomic complexity, those with higher baseline SYNTAX scores had significantly worse outcomes with PCI than did patients with low or intermediate SYNTAX scores; outcomes for patients with CABG did not correlate with baseline SYNTAX score, but baseline EuroSCORE significantly predicted outcomes for both treatments.

Conclusions—

Patients with LM disease who had revascularization with PCI had safety and efficacy outcomes comparable to CABG at 1 year; longer follow-up is required to determine whether these 2 revascularization strategies offer comparable medium-term outcomes in this group of complex patients.

Clinical Trial Registration—

http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00114972.
Targeted Deletions of Cyclooxygenase-2 and Atherogenesis in Mice
Authors: Hui Yiqun , Ricciotti Emanuela , Crichton Irene , Yu Zhou , Wang Dairong , Stubbe Jane , Wang Miao , Puré Ellen , FitzGerald Garret A.
Published: June 2010

Background—

Although the dominant product of vascular Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostacyclin (PGI
2
), restrains atherogenesis, inhibition and deletion of COX-2 have yielded conflicting results in mouse models of atherosclerosis. Floxed mice were used to parse distinct cellular contributions of COX-2 in macrophages and T cells (TCs) to atherogenesis.

Methods and Results—

Deletion of macrophage–COX-2 (Mac–COX-2KOs) was attained with LysMCre mice and completely suppressed lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophage prostaglandin (PG) formation and lipopolysaccharide-evoked systemic PG biosynthesis by ≈30%. Lipopolysaccharide-stimulated COX-2 expression was suppressed in polymorphonuclear leukocytes isolated from MacKOs, but PG formation was not even detected in polymorphonuclear leukocyte supernatants from control mice. Atherogenesis was attenuated when MacKOs were crossed into hyperlipidemic low-density lipoprotein receptor knockouts. Deletion of Mac–COX-2 appeared to remove a restraint on COX-2 expression in lesional nonleukocyte (CD45- and CD11b-negative) vascular cells that express vascular cell adhesion molecule and variably α-smooth muscle actin and vimentin, portending a shift in PG profile and consequent atheroprotection. Basal expression of COX-2 was minimal in TCs, but use of CD4Cre to generate TC knockouts depressed its modest upregulation by anti-CD3ε. However, biosynthesis of PGs, TC composition in lymphatic organs, and atherogenesis in low-density lipoprotein receptor knockouts were unaltered in TC knockouts.

Conclusions—

Macrophage–COX-2, primarily a source of thromboxane A
2
and prostaglandin (PG)E
2
, promotes atherogenesis and exerts a restraint on enzyme expression by lesional cells suggestive of vascular smooth muscle cells, a prominent source of atheroprotective prostacyclin. TC COX-2 does not detectably influence TC development or function or atherogenesis in mice.
An Analysis of Prospective Risk Factors for Aortic Stiffness in Men
Authors: McEniery Carmel M. , Spratt Michael , Munnery Margaret , Yarnell John , Lowe Gordon D. , Rumley Ann , Gallacher John , Ben-Shlomo Yoav , Cockcroft John R. , Wilkinson Ian B.
Published: June 2010

Arterial stiffness is an important determinant of cardiovascular risk. The precise risk factors for arterial stiffening remain unclear. We aimed to identify potential risk factors using prospective exposure data from the Caerphilly Prospective Study. Aortic pulse wave velocity and augmentation index were measured in 825 men and related to current (2004) and baseline (1979–1988) anthropometric, hemodynamic, and biochemical factors. The mean age of the men was 74 years, with an average follow-up of 20 years. The only independent baseline predictors of current velocity were pulse pressure (standardized β-coefficient: 0.58), C-reactive protein (0.35), glucose (0.25), and waist circumference (0.23). The sole baseline predictor of current augmentation index was fibrinogen (0.78). After additional adjustment for the corresponding current risk factor, pulse wave velocity was best related to cumulative exposure to C-reactive protein, whereas augmentation index was most strongly related to current levels. Velocity was also more strongly correlated with baseline levels of triglycerides and smoking but with current waist circumference. The pulse pressure heart rate product assessed over the whole of 20 years was independently correlated with aortic pulse wave velocity but not augmentation index. Other than blood pressure, established cardiovascular risk factors have only a modest effect on aortic stiffness and wave reflection. Inflammation and the level of repetitive cyclic stress are important predictors of aortic stiffness, whereas wave reflection is predicted by acute inflammation only. Adequate control of pulse pressure and heart rate, as well as reducing inflammation, may, in the long-term, retard aortic stiffening, although this remains to be tested directly.