bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved anti‐tumor activity of stabilized anthracycline polymeric micelle formulation, NC‐6300
Authors: Harada Mitsunori , Bobe Iulian , Saito Hiroyuki , Shibata Naoya , Tanaka Ryosuke , Hayashi Tatsuyuki , Kato Yasuki
Published: September 2010

Anthracyclines have long been considered to be among the most active agents clinically available for the treatment of breast cancer despite their toxicity. To improve their pharmacological profiles, a new macromolecular prodrug, denoted NC‐6300, was synthesized. NC‐6300 comprises epirubicin covalently bound to polyethylene‐glycol polyaspartate block copolymer through an acid‐labile hydrazone bond. The conjugate forms a micellar structure spontaneously in aqueous media with a diameter of 60–70 nm. The block copolymers are partially substituted with hydrophobic benzyl groups to stabilize the micellar structure. The present study was designed to confirm that polymeric micelles incorporating epirubicin through an acid‐labile linker improve the therapeutic index and achieve a broad range of therapeutic doses. Pharmacokinetic studies in rats showed highly enhanced plasma retention of NC‐6300 compared with native epirubicin. The maximal tolerated doses in mice of NC‐6300 and native epirubicin were 25 and 9 mg/kg, respectively, when administered three times with a 4‐day interval between each dose. NC‐6300 at 15 and 20 mg/kg with the same administration schedule regressed a Hep3B human hepatic tumor with slight and transient bodyweight loss. Remarkably, NC‐6300 also inhibited growth of an MDA‐MB‐231 human breast tumor at the same dosage. In contrast, native epirubicin at 7 mg/kg administered three times with a 4‐day interval was only able to slow tumor growth. Tissue distribution studies of NC‐6300 showed efficient free epirubicin released in the tumor at 74% by area under the concentration‐time curve (AUC) evaluation, supporting the effectiveness of NC‐6300. In conclusion, NC‐6300 improved the potency of epirubicin, demonstrating the advantage of NC‐6300 attributable to the efficient drug release in the tumor. (Cancer Sci2011; 102: 192–199)
Deliberate induction of alcohol tolerance: empirical introduction to a novel health risk
Authors: Martinez Julia A. , Steinley Douglas , Sher Kenneth J.
Published: September 2010

Aims  Alcohol tolerance is a hallmark indicator of alcohol dependence. Even so, the allure of peers' admiration for having the ability to drink heavily may lead some adolescents and young adults to practice, or ‘train’, to increase their tolerance (particularly at US colleges, where heavy drinking is highly prevalent and central to the social culture). This is a potential health hazard that has not been documented empirically. Thus, we initiated a study of tolerance ‘training’ and its association to risky and heavy drinking.

Design, setting and participants  A cross‐sectional online survey of 990 college student life‐time drinkers at a large Midwestern US university.

Findings  Of the sample, 9.9% (n = 97) reported deliberately ‘training’ to increase tolerance. On average, they reported increasing from approximately seven to 10 US standard drinks in a night prior to ‘training’ to 12–15 drinks at the end of ‘training,’ over approximately 2–3 weeks' duration. Although the proportion of frequent binge drinking among ‘non‐trainers’ (34.4%) was similar to national rates, ‘trainers’ were much more likely to be frequent bingers (76.3%; OR = 6.15).

Conclusions  A number of students report deliberately inducing alcohol tolerance, probably directly increasing the risk for alcohol poisoning and other acute harms and/or dependence. This phenomenon might additionally be applicable to other populations, and deserves further study and attention as a potential personal and public health risk. Prevention efforts might aim to reduce the perceived importance of heavy‐drinking abilities.
Treatment process, alliance and outcome in brief versus extended treatments for marijuana dependence
Authors: Gibbons Carly J. , Nich Charla , Steinberg Karen , Roffman Roger A. , Corvino Joanne , Babor Thomas F. , Carroll Kathleen M.
Published: September 2010

Aims  The Marijuana Treatment Project, a large multi‐site randomized clinical trial, compared a delayed treatment control condition with a brief (two‐session) and extended (nine‐session) multi‐component treatment among 450 marijuana‐dependent participants. In this report we present treatment process data, including the fidelity of treatment delivery in the three community‐based treatment settings as well as the relationships between treatment process and outcome.

Design  Independent evaluations of clinician adherence and competence ratings were made based on 633 videotaped sessions from 163 participants. Relationships between clinician adherence and competence, ratings of the working alliance and marijuana treatment outcomes were evaluated.

Findings  Protocol treatments were implemented with strong fidelity to manual specifications and with few significant differences in adherence and competence ratings across sites. In the brief two‐session treatment condition, only the working alliance was associated significantly with frequency of marijuana use, but in the extended treatment therapist ratings of working alliance predicted outcomes, as did the interaction of alliance and curvilinear adherence.

Conclusions  Behavioral treatments for marijuana use were delivered in community settings with good fidelity. Participant and therapist working alliance scores were associated significantly with improved marijuana use outcomes in a brief behavioral treatment for adults with marijuana dependence. In extended treatment the therapist ratings of working alliance were associated with more positive outcome. However, in that treatment there was also a significant interaction between alliance and curvilinear adherence.
Effects of smoking cessation with voucher‐based contingency management on birth outcomes
Authors: Higgins Stephen T. , Bernstein Ira M. , Washio Yukiko , Heil Sarah H. , Badger Gary J. , Skelly Joan M. , Higgins Tara M. , Solomon Laura J.
Published: September 2010

Aims  This study examined whether smoking cessation using voucher‐based contingency management (CM) improves birth outcomes.

Design  Data were combined from three controlled trials.

Setting  Each of the trials was conducted in the same research clinic devoted to smoking and pregnancy.

Participants  Participants (n = 166) were pregnant women who participated in trials examining the efficacy of voucher‐based CM for smoking cessation. Women were assigned to either a contingent condition, wherein they earned vouchers exchangeable for retail items by abstaining from smoking, or to a non‐contingent condition where they received vouchers independent of smoking status.

Measurement  Birth outcomes were determined by review of hospital delivery records.

Findings  Antepartum abstinence was greater in the contingent than non‐contingent condition, with late‐pregnancy abstinence being 34.1% versus 7.4% (P < 0.001). Mean birth weight of infants born to mothers treated in the contingent condition was greater than infants born to mothers treated in the non‐contingent condition (3295.6 ± 63.8 g versus 3093.6 ± 67.0 g, P = 0.03) and the percentage of low birth weight (<2500 g) deliveries was less (5.9% versus 18.5%, P = 0.02). No significant treatment effects were observed across three other outcomes investigated, although each was in the direction of improved outcomes in the contingent versus the non‐contingent condition: mean gestational age (39.1 ± 0.2 weeks versus 38.5 ± 0.3 weeks, P = 0.06), percentage of preterm deliveries (5.9 versus 13.6, P = 0.09), and percentage of admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit (4.7% versus 13.8%, P = 0.06).

Conclusions  These results provide evidence that smoking‐cessation treatment with voucher‐based CM may improve important birth outcomes.
Reductions in alcohol and cocaine use following a group coping intervention for HIV‐positive adults with childhood sexual abuse histories
Authors: Meade Christina S. , Drabkin Anya S. , Hansen Nathan B. , Wilson Patrick A. , Kochman Arlene , Sikkema Kathleen J.
Published: September 2010

Aims  Few interventions exist to reduce alcohol and non‐injection drug use among people living with HIV/AIDS. This study tested the effects of a coping group intervention for HIV‐positive adults with childhood sexual abuse histories on alcohol, cocaine and marijuana use.

Design  Participants were assigned randomly to the experimental coping group or a time‐matched comparison support group. Both interventions were delivered in a group format over 15 weekly 90‐minute sessions.

Setting and Participants  A diverse sample of 247 HIV‐positive men and women with childhood sexual abuse were recruited from AIDS service organizations and community health centers in New York City.

Measurements  Substance use was assessed pre‐ and post‐intervention and every 4 months during a 12‐month follow‐up period. Using an intent‐to‐treat analysis, longitudinal changes in substance use by condition were assessed using generalized estimating equations.

Findings  At baseline, 42% of participants drank alcohol, 26% used cocaine and 26% used marijuana. Relative to participants in the support group, those in the coping group had greater reductions in quantity of alcohol use (Wald χ2(4) = 10.77, P = 0.029) and any cocaine use (Wald χ2(4) = 9.81, P = 0.044) overtime.

Conclusions  Many HIV patients, particularly those with childhood sexual abuse histories, continue to abuse substances. This group intervention that addressed coping with HIV and sexual trauma was effective in reducing alcohol and cocaine use, with effects sustained at 12‐month follow‐up. Integrating mental health treatment into HIV prevention may improve outcomes.
Victimization and substance use disorders in a national sample of heterosexual and sexual minority women and men
Authors: Hughes Tonda , McCabe Sean Esteban , Wilsnack Sharon C. , West Brady T. , Boyd Carol J.
Published: September 2010

Context  There is consensus in the research literature that substance use disparities exist among sexual minority women and men; however, few studies have examined risk factors that may contribute to these disparities.

Aims  To compare reports of life‐time victimization experiences in a US national sample of adult heterosexual and sexual minority women and men and to examine the relationships between victimization experiences and past‐year substance use disorders.

Design, participants, measurements  The secondary data analyses used 2004–05 (wave 2) National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC) data collected in structured diagnostic face‐to‐face interviews in the United States. Substance use disorders (SUDs) were defined according to DSM‐IV criteria and included past‐year alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, drug abuse and drug dependence. The sample consisted of 34 653 adults aged 20 years and older; approximately 2% of the respondents self‐identified as sexual minority (lesbian, gay or bisexual).

Findings  Results showed strong associations between victimization and any past‐year SUDs and confirmed findings from several previous studies indicating that, compared with heterosexuals, sexual minority women and men are at heightened risk for life‐time victimization. However, prevalence of the seven victimization experiences and the degree of association between individual victimization experiences and SUDs varied substantially across sexual minority subgroups. The childhood victimization variables—especially childhood neglect—showed the strongest and most consistent associations with SUDs. Odds of SUDs were generally higher among both female and male respondents, regardless of sexual identity, who reported multiple (two or more) victimization experiences than among those who reported no life‐time victimization, suggesting a possible cumulative effect of multiple victimization experiences.

Conclusions  Higher rates of life‐time victimization, particularly victimization experienced in childhood, may help to explain higher rates of substance use disorders among sexual minorities. However, more research is needed to understand better the complex relationships among sexual orientation, victimization and substance use.
Methadone dose and neonatal abstinence syndrome—systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cleary Brian J. , Donnelly Jean , Strawbridge Judith , Gallagher Paul J. , Fahey Tom , Clarke Mike , Murphy Deirdre J.
Published: September 2010

Aim  To determine if there is a relationship between maternal methadone dose in pregnancy and the diagnosis or medical treatment of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS).

Methods  PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and PsychINFO were searched for studies reporting on methadone use in pregnancy and NAS (1966–2009). The relative risk (RR) of NAS was compared for methadone doses above versus below a range of cut‐off points. Summary RRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using random effects meta‐analysis. Sensitivity analyses explored the impact of limiting meta‐analyses to prospective studies or studies using an objective scoring system to diagnose NAS.

Results  A total of 67 studies met inclusion criteria for the systematic review; 29 were included in the meta‐analysis. Any differences in the incidence of NAS in infants of women on higher compared with lower doses were statistically non‐significant in analyses restricted to prospective studies or to those using an objective scoring system to diagnose NAS.

Conclusions  Severity of the neonatal abstinence syndrome does not appear to differ according to whether mothers are on high‐ or low‐dose methadone maintenance therapy.
Alcohol as a risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
Authors: Phillips David P. , Brewer Kimberly M. , Wadensweiler Paul
Published: September 2010

Aim  To test whether alcohol is a risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Design and setting  US epidemiological study using computerized death certificates, linked birth and infant death dataset, and Fatality Analysis Reporting System.

Participants  All SIDS cases (n = 129 090) and other infant deaths (n = 295 151) from 1973–2006; all persons involved in late‐night alcohol‐related crashes (n = 135 946) from 1994–2008.

Measurements  Three measures were used: the expected number of deaths on New Year versus the observed number (expected values were determined using a locally weighted scatterplot smoothing polynomial), the average number of weekend deaths versus the average number of weekday deaths, and the SIDS death rate for children of alcohol‐consuming versus non‐alcohol‐consuming mothers.

Findings  These measures indicate that the largest spikes in alcohol consumption and in SIDS (33%) occur on New Year, alcohol consumption and SIDS increase significantly on weekends, and children of alcohol‐consuming mothers are much more likely to die from SIDS than are children of non‐alcohol‐consuming mothers.

Conclusions  Alcohol consumption appears to be a risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome, although it is unclear whether alcohol is an independent risk factor, a risk factor only in conjunction with other known risk factors (like co‐sleeping), or a proxy for other risk factors associated with occasions when alcohol consumption increases (like smoking). Our findings suggest that caretakers and authorities should be informed that alcohol impairs parental capacity and might be a risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome; in addition, future research should further explore possible connections between sudden infant death syndrome and alcohol.
Measurement of Plasma Renin Concentration (PRC) Using Exogenous Substrate and Radioimmunoassay
Authors: Waldhäusl W. , Lewandowski J. A.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. An assay to determine renin concentration (RC) has been developed which allows quantitation on a scale of Goldblatt units (G.U.) and provides a way of comparing results from various laboratories. Renin activity is protected by Cleland's reagent. The enzymatic reaction is standardized for pH (8.0), temperature (30o C), time (30 min.) and by using hog plasma renin substrate (optimal pH 8.0). The latter avoids the interference of pseudorenin (optimal pH 5.0) and reduces the effects of endogenous renin substrate upon the enzyme reaction. The standard curves were corrected for the blank. Angiotensin I generated was measured by a double antibody radioimmunoassay method. Recoveries of added enzyme provided a control for the assay and were 96±12.5% (SD) for 47 experiments. The coefficient of variation was 16.8% and the sensitivity of the assay (=2 SD) was 0.2×10‐4 G.U. per ml plasma. The effect of various materials on the hydrolysis of hog substrate by renin was studied. Plasma renin concentration (PRC) from healthy individuals on an uncontrolled diet and in the upright position was 0.88 ±0.09 times 10‐4 G.U. per ml. Patients suffering from primary aldosteronism had suppressed values of PRC which reached maximal levels of 0.2 ×10‐4 G.U. per ml in the upright position on a sodium restricted diet (10 mEq per day).
Insulin and Glucagon Release from Monolayer Cell Cultures of Pancreas from Newborn Rats
Authors: Marliss Errol B. , Wollheim1 Claes B. , Blondel Benigna , Orci Lelio , Lambert André E. , Stauffacher Werner , Like Arthur A. , B. enold Albert E.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. Monolayer culture of pancreatic cells from newborn rats has been shown to yield ultrastructurally normal endocrine cells, virtual absence of differentiated exocrine cells, and the maintenance of the capacity to synthesize immuno‐reactive insulin (IRI) and glucagon (ERG). Such a preparation has potential advantages for the study of mechanisms of hormone synthesis and release. Therefore, a survey of factors influencing hormone content and release from cultured cells was undertaken. The following general features were demonstrated: (1) highly reproducible responses within a given preparation of cells despite (2) some variations of absolute hormone content and release between preparations, (3) suitability for preparing sufficient quantities of cells to permit the simultaneous comparison of several factors within a given preparation, and (4) persistence of physiological responses to known modulators of IRI and IRG release. Thus, IRI release was stimulated in concentration‐related fashion by glucose. Amino acids, tolbutamide and glucagon augmented release, and 2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose, mannoheptulose and diazoxide inhibited glucose‐induced release. Epinephrine inhibited glucose‐induced IRI release through stimulation of an α‐adrenergic receptor mechanism, and the presence of probable β‐receptor stimulation of release was also demonstrated. Agents affecting the microtubular‐microfilamentous system exerted effecte similar to those demonstrated in other preparations. Ouabain, as well as the absence or augmented potassium in the medium increased IRI release in the presence of non‐stimulatory 2.75 mM glucose, whereas absence of calcium inhibited the response to 11 mM glucose without affecting baseline, non‐stimulated release. IRG release was shown to be inversely related to the glucose concentration in the medium. It was stimulated by epinephrine, arginine, alanine, lactate and pyruvate, and inhibited by β‐hydroxybutyrate. Diazoxide alone had no effect on IRG release. The monolayer culture employed in these studies provides a convenient, reproducible system for the further study of adult‐type IRI and IRG secretory behaviour. In addition to acute or short‐term regulation it may be especially suited for the study of long‐term modulating effects during the culture period.
Calcium and Phosphorus Metabolism, Parathyroid Hormone, Calcitonin and Bone Histology in Pseudohypoparathyroidism*
Authors: Birkenhäger J. C. , Seldenrath H. J. , Hackeng W. H. L. , Schelleken A. P. M. , van der Veer A. L. J. , Roelfsema F.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. High blood levels of immunreactive parathyroid hormone and normal levels of calcitonin were detected in a 14‐yearoIdgirl suffering from pseudohypoparathyroidism. Antibodies to parathyroid hormone have not been detected. Normalization of the serum calcium concentration suppressed parathyroid hormone and stimulated calcitonin secretion to a reproducible extent. Prolonged administration of parathyroid extract induced an increase ofphosphaturia and subsequently normalized the serum calcium level, while intestinal absorption of calcium did not improve. High values for the exchangeable calcium pool and the bone accretion rate of calcium were found. Histologically the iliac crest bone showed a deficient degree of mineralization and a high osteoclastic activity. Treatment with die hydrotachysterol for over a year did not normalize the respons‐of urinary excretion of phosphate and cyclic AMP to administration of parathyroid extract. The data presented are compatible with a relative resistance of the renal tubules, the bone tissue and probably the gut to parathyroid hormone and with the co‐existence of a moderate degree of osteomalacia and secondary hyperparathyroidism.
Acrylamide Electrophoresis and Binding Ability of Hepatic Ribosomal Protein from Normal and from Diabetic Rats
Authors: Tragi K. H. , Reaven G. M.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. Liver ribosomes were isolated from normal and diabetic rats. Diabetes mellitus was induced either by the administration of alloxan or by injection of anti‐insulin serum. Treatment of rat liver ribosomes with ammonium chloride leads to a detachment of proteins which have an inhibitory effect on the binding of polyuridylic acid (poly U) to ribosomes. However, there is evidence that these proteins do bind to poly U and that there is less binding of proteins derived from diabetic liver ribosomes than of proteins derived from normal animals.

The separation of these detachable proteins by means of a polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis reveals a quantitative increase of one single protein. The appearance of this increase is independent of the mode of induction of diabetes (alloxan, anti‐insulin serum) and is abolished by the administration of insulin. This finding added to the evidence of a reduction of ribosomal aggregation in diabetes mellitus could lead one to suggest the hypothesis that this detachable ribosomal protein has a repressive function with regard to the binding of messenger RNA to the ribosome.
Serum Guanase in Kidney Diseases
Authors: Kebejian G. Y. , Al‐Khalidi U. A. S.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. The use of an ultrasensitive method for measurement of serum guanase levels permitted the determination of levels in normal circumstances and in a variety of kidney diseases. A significant decrease in serum guanase correlating with an elevation in BUN level was observed in the various types of kidney diseases studied. This decrease is not due to inhibitors in the sera of patients. Experimental rabbits injected with glycerol or magnesium chloride also showed a decrease in serum guanase within a few hours.
Red Cell Glycolysis in a Case of 3‐Phosphoglycerate Kinase Deficiency
Authors: Arese P. , Bosia A. , Gallo E. , Mazza U. , Pescarmona G. P.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. A severe deficiency in red cell 3‐phosphoglycerate kinase was observed in a 62‐year‐old woman with haemolytic anaemia. Compared with a normal “young” red cell population with the same degree of reticulocytosis (6–7%) the 3‐phosphoglycerate kinase activity was reduced to 27%. A concomitant decrease of hexokinase and pyruvate kinase (both reduced by about 30%) was observed. The activities of glucoses‐phosphate dehydrogenase, phosphofructokinase, fructose‐1,6‐di‐phosphate aldolase, gIyceraIdehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase and lactate dehydrogenase were slightly increased (7 to 15%). The total glycolytic output of the deficient cells was decreased by 28% at pH 7.0, by 36% at pH 7.4 and by 34% at pH 7.6. Compared with a normal “adult” red cell population the 3‐phosphoglycerate kinase activity was reduced to 42% of the control values. Hexokinase, glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase and lactate dehydrogenase activities were increased by approximately 20–50%. Phosphofructokinase activity was unchanged and pyruvate kinase only slightly increased. The steady state levels of the intermediates preceding the 3‐phosphoglycerate kinase step were increased 2–3 fold. The subsequent metabolites were decreased or practically unmodified. ATP, ADP, NAD+, and NADH were not affected. The reduced glutathione level was increased and the ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione was doubled. The glycolytic output and its pH‐dependency were normal. The metabolic significance of the enzyme defect was assessed by the in vitro creation of cell stressing conditions, i.e. low pH and high pyruvate levels. In both cases, the 3‐phosphoglycerate kinase activity became limiting at low pH, glucose‐6‐phosphate accumulated at a faster rate and fructose‐ 1,6‐diphosphate and dihydroxyacetone phosphate disappeared more slowly in the deficient cells. After pyruvate loading these cells showed: a faster, more pronounced rise in 1,3‐diphosphoglycerate and a decrease in 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate (slightly increased in the controls): a drop in reduced glutathione (constant in the controls): constant ATP and slightly increased 3‐phosphoglycerate concentrations (both strongly increased in the controls): a slight increase in NADH (dropped to nil in the controls). Steady state glycolysis under normal conditions seemed to be affected by the enzyme deficiency. 3‐phosphoglycerate kinase however, became more severely limiting a low pH or after the addition of pyruvate. In these conditions, the flow was diverted to the 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate bypass, less ATP was produced and the concentration of reduced glutathione decreased. This may be assumed to have led to impairment of the ionic pump and may thus explain the increased haemolysis.
Evaluation of antileukaemic effects of rapamycin in patients with imatinib‐resistant chronic myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Sillaber C. , Mayerhofer M. , Böhm A. , Vales A. , Gruze A. , Aichberger K. J. , Esterbauer H. , Pfeilstöcker M. , Sperr W. R. , Pickl W. F. , Haas O. A. , Valent P.
Published: September 2010

Background  Recent data suggest that the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is involved in the regulation of growth of neoplastic cells in chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML).

Patients and methods  We treated six patients with imatinib‐resistant CML in haematological relapse (leukocytes > 20 000 µL−1) with rapamycin at 2 mg per os daily for 14 consecutive days, with dose‐adjustment allowed to reach a target rapamycin serum concentration of 10–20 pg mL−1.

Results  A major leukocyte response with decrease to less than 10 000 µL−1 was obtained in two patients, and a minor transient response was seen in two other patients. In responding patients, we also observed a decrease in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA levels in circulating leukaemic cells. Side effects during rapamycin treatment were mild in most patients. In one patient, pneumonia developed. Rapamycin was also found to counteract growth of CML cells in vitro as determined by 3H‐thymidine incorporation. Moreover, rapamycin inhibited the growth of Ba/F3 cells exhibiting various imatinib‐resistant mutants of BCR/ABL, including the T315I variant that exhibits resistance against most currently available BCR/ABL kinase inhibitors.

Conclusions  Rapamycin shows antileukaemic effects in imatinib‐resistant CML in vitro and in vivo. Larger trials with rapamycin or rapamycin‐derivatives in combination with other targeted drugs are warranted to further determine clinical efficacy in CML.
Strong evidence for up‐regulation of cyclooxygenase‐1 in head and neck cancer
Authors: Erovic B. M. , Woegerbauer M. , Pammer J. , Selzer E. , Grasl M. Ch. , Thurnher D.
Published: September 2010

Background  Cyclooxygenase‐1, in contrast to cyclooxygenase‐2, is generally reported to be constitutively expressed as a housekeeping enzyme in many different tissues. A number of recently published reports, however, challenge the notion that cyclooxygenase‐1 expression is invariably constitutive by demonstrating that this enzyme might be up‐regulated under certain pathological conditions in, for example, breast or ovarian cancer cells. In this study we investigated the expression of cyclooxygenase‐1 in head and neck tumours and compared it to the cyclooxygenase‐1 expression levels in normal oropharyngeal epithelial cells.

Material and methods  Paraffin‐embedded pretreatment biopsies were obtained from head and neck tumour patients (n = 35). In addition, samples of normal oropharyngeal mucosa were taken from patients (n = 12) undergoing routine tonsillectomy. Cyclooxygenase‐1 expression levels were determined by immunohistochemistry, Western blotting and real‐time RT‐PCR in cancerous tissue versus normal mucosa.

Results  Immunohistochemistry revealed overexpression of cyclooxygenase‐1 in tumour biopsies compared to normal mucosa. Cyclooxygenase‐1 was highly synthesized in the cytoplasm of neoplastic cells while significantly lower levels were detectable in normal mucosal cells. Western blotting and real‐time RT‐PCR also demonstrated higher cyclooxygenase‐1 levels in tumour specimens compared to normal tissue samples.

Conclusion  In this study we show for the first time that cyclooxygenase‐1 is overexpressed in head and neck cancer cells compared to epithelial cells of normal mucosa.
Myeloperoxidase level in patients with stable coronary artery disease and acute coronary syndromes
Authors: Ndrepepa G. , Braun S. , Mehilli J. , Von Beckerath N. , Schömig A. , Kastrati A.
Published: September 2010

Background  No studies have measured plasma myeloperoxidase (MPO) across the entire spectrum of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). The aim of the study was to compare MPO level across the entire spectrum of CAD, to assess the accuracy of MPO in predicting acute coronary syndromes and to define independent correlates of MPO level.

Design  This case–control study included 874 patients with angiographically proven CAD. Cases included 680 patients with CAD (382 patients with stable CAD, 107 patients with non‐ST‐segment elevation acute coronary syndromes and 191 patients with ST‐segment elevation acute myocardial infarction). Controls included 194 subjects with normal coronary angiograms. MPO was measured using an enzyme immunoassay before angiography and heparin administration.

Results  MPO level [median (25th–75th percentiles)] was 74·5 (52·5–135·3) µg L−1 in cases vs. 61·2 (44·6–80·9), µg L−1 in controls (P < 0·001). MPO level was 61·2 (47·5–85·8), µg L−1 in patients with stable CAD, 99·2 (62·2–154·9), µg L−1 in patients with non‐ST‐segment elevation acute coronary syndromes and 129·5 (72·2–216·0) µg L−1 in patients with acute myocardial infarction (P < 0·001). Elevated MPO level was associated with acute coronary syndromes with an area under receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0·731 (95% confidence interval 0·692–0·770; P < 0·001). Independent correlates of MPO level were acute coronary syndrome (P < 0·001), high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (P = 0·007), creatinine (P = 0·026), left ventricular ejection fraction (P = 0·027, negative association) and smoking (P = 0·028).

Conclusions  MPO level is elevated in patients with CAD and higher levels of MPO were found with progression of CAD from stable CAD to non‐ST‐segment elevation acute coronary syndromes and to acute myocardial infarction.
Incidence of type 2 diabetes in southern Spain (Pizarra Study)
Authors: Soriguer F. , Rojo‐Martínez G. , Almaraz M. C. , Esteva I. , Ruiz de Adana M. S. , Morcillo S. , Valdés S. , García‐Fuentes E. , García‐Escobar E. , Cardona I. , Gomez‐Zumaquero J. M. , Olveira‐Fuster G.
Published: September 2010

Background  Few European studies have used an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) to examine the incidence of type 2 diabetes. We determined the incidence of impaired fasting glucose (IFG), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and type 2 diabetes in a population from southern Spain.

Material and methods  A population‐based cohort study was undertaken in Pizarra, Spain. Baseline data were recorded on age, sex, weight, height, waist and hip circumferences, and diabetes status for 1051 persons, of whom 910 were free of type 2 diabetes (at‐risk sample). Of these, 714 completed the 6‐year follow‐up study. Body mass index, waist‐to‐hip ratio and weight increase since baseline were calculated. The homeostasis model assessment equations were used to estimate the indices of insulin resistance and β‐cell function. Each person received an OGTT at baseline and after 6 years.

Results  Type 2 diabetes developed in 81 people for a total of 4253 person‐years, representing an incidence of 19·1 cases per 1000 person‐years (95% confidence interval, 15·3–23·6). Age and the presence of obesity, central obesity and carbohydrate metabolism disorders [IFG (cut off = 100 mg dL−1, capillary blood glucose level), IGT or both] at baseline were significant markers for the onset of type 2 diabetes during follow‐up. After adjusting for these variables, multivariate analysis showed weight increase, waist‐to‐hip ratio and the indices of insulin resistance and β‐cell function were significantly associated with the risk for type 2 diabetes.

Conclusions  The incidence of type 2 diabetes in a population from southern Spain is high. It is probably associated with the high prevalence of obesity and weight increase in this population.
DRB1 alleles in polymyalgia rheumatica and rheumatoid arthritis in southern France
Authors: Reviron D. , Foutrier C. , Guis S. , Mercier P. , Roudier J.
Published: September 2010

To investigate the association of HLA‐DRB1 alleles with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 55 patients with PMR without giant cell arteritis, 203 patients with RA and 230 controls, all from the European population of Marseille, were HLA‐DRB1 genotyped by PCR‐SSO.

HLA‐DRB1*01 was significantly increased in both the PMR and RA groups compared to controls (35% versus 17%, Pc < 0.05, and 41% versus 17%, Pc < 0.001, respectively). HLA‐DRB1*04 was significantly increased in the RA group compared to controls (48% versus 23%, Pc < 0.001) but not in the PMR group. HLA‐DRB1*04 subtype frequencies were significantly different between PMR patients and RA patients. Shared epitope‐positive HLA‐DRB1*04 alleles (DRB1*0401, 0404, 0405, 0408) were significantly overrepresented in RA patients compared to PMR patients and shared epitope‐negative HLA‐DRB1*04 alleles were overrepresented in PMR patients compared to RA patients.

In conclusion, in the Mediterranean population studied, HLA‐DRB1*01 is associated with RA and PMR whereas HLA‐DRB1*04 is associated with RA only.
Fisheries management in inland and coastal waters in Denmark from 1987 to 1999
Authors: Rasmussen G. , Geertz‐Hansen P.
Published: September 2010

Fishing is a major recreational activity in Denmark, involving both inland and coastal waters. Anglers, aged 18–67, and amateur fishermen, aged 12–67, must hold a valid fishing permit. Fees are used for stocking, river restoration and fisheries research. All proposals for stocking inland waters require stocking plans based on the carrying capacity of the aquatic habitat in question. All stocking is undertaken using hatchery‐reared fish that are the offspring, either of wild fish caught in nature for subsequent stripping, or of more or less domesticated fish stocks that have lived in captivity for several generations. Stocking is also subject to genetic guidelines. This paper reviews the status of fisheries in Danish inland waters, their regulation, socio‐economic aspects, stocking, aquaculture and the main problems and trends.
Present status, and social and economic significance of inland fisheries in Germany
Authors: Wedekind H. , Hilge V. , Steffens W.
Published: September 2010

The Federal Republic of Germany is situated in the central part of Europe and covers an area of 358 000 km2. The climate is maritime in the north and continental in the south with precipitation varying between 600 and 2000 mm year–1. Lakes and farm ponds are common in the north‐eastern part of the country and in the alpine and pre‐alpine regions to the south. A great number of small natural and artificial water bodies exist all over the country. There are about 800 000 ha of inland waters. The population of 82 million people are concentrated around a number of large conurbations. Over the last 150 years, intense use of the water resources by industry led to pollution and a severe decrease in river and lake fisheries. Only 587 inland fishing enterprises still existed in the early 1990s. Catches from commercial fisheries are decreasing with a total of 3469 t being caught in 1998. The Lake Constance fishery, which landed about 840 t in 1998, is an exception to the general trend. Strong competition for the aquatic resource is affecting commercial fisheries, whilst recreational fisheries have gained increasing importance over the last decades. Recent studies provided basic information on anglers’ habits, social structure and economic significance as well as their effects on the waters. Aquaculture mainly produces rainbow trout, Oncoryhnchus mykiss (Walbaum) 20 000 t and carps (12 000 t) e.g. Cyprinus carpio L. Despite pressures from industry and conservation movements, regional support for fisheries and their development has intensified, leading to improved water quality. There are even attempts to re‐establish abandoned fisheries. Co‐operation with conservationists provides an opportunity for the future survival and development of fisheries. The fisheries and aquaculture sectors changed drastically after the reunification of Germany. The collapse of the infrastructure in the eastern part of Germany led to a decline in production and to a special investigation on recent developments of this sector.
Importance of recreational fisheries in the Guadiana River Basin in Portugal
Authors: Marta P. , Bochechas J. , Collares‐Pereira M. J.
Published: September 2010

The rapid expansion of recreational fishing in Portugal over the last 20 years, along with the multiplicity of pressures affecting inland fisheries, demands the urgent recognition of the social and economic values. Sport‐angling information is still inadequate to formulate management actions. To address this issue, a regional survey on freshwater recreational fishing in all the municipalities of the Guadiana River Basin was carried out in 1999. The survey, based on 1998 data, provided information on the profile of anglers, preferences as regards reservoirs and sections of rivers fished, frequency of fishing trips, motivation, expenditure, fish species caught, an estimation of total catch and its destination, interest in competitions, enforcement and personal opinions. The results recommended improved communication and feedback between users, and mechanisms for future regional development and management of recreational fisheries.
The development of the Finnish inland fisheries system
Authors: Sipponen M.
Published: September 2010

The efficiency of Finnish inland fisheries administration has improved during the past 15 years because of changes in fisheries legislation. The establishment of regional management units particularly has improved the practice of co‐management, which has allowed the participation of many relevant interest groups in the decision‐making process. The long‐term private market equilibrium supply for recreational fishing with active types of gear accounted for 50% of the Finnish lake surface area. Presently the public sector has become involved in the supply of recreational fishing licences. The improvement in the system owes much to political initiatives. As regards commercial fishing, state‐ownership of fishing grounds is a channel for recruitment into the occupation. Private ownership has led to a suboptimal allocation of fisheries resources, particularly in the commercial branch of the industry. However, by giving priority to social instead of economic goals the statutory fishery associations will help to maintain social and community values, which are locally important.
Economic valuation of inland recreational fisheries: empirical studies and their policy use in Norway
Authors: Navrud S.
Published: September 2010

Cost‐benefit analyses (CBAs) of liming programmes in selected acidified rivers and lakes in southern Norway, showed a benefit–cost ratio (B/C) varying from 1.2 for brown trout, Salmo trutta L., lakes to 4.4. for Atlantic salmon, S. salar L., rivers. Contingent valuation (CV) and travel cost (TC) methods were used to estimate recreational value (use value) and non‐use value of increased fish stocks. These local studies, and two national CV surveys, were used by the environmental authorities to document the benefits of liming and other fish stock restoration and preservation programmes. They were also used to calculate social benefits from local reductions in air pollution and international agreements on reduced air emissions of acid compounds. The Norwegian Fishing and Hunting Association (NJFF) also successfully used the results to increase the governmental funds for liming by 300% between 1993 and 1995. The NJFF have since used these results to fight reductions in the liming budget, and has managed to keep it constant at about €13.5 million annually. However, €40 million are needed annually to neutralize the current acid depositions in Norway. Two national CV surveys found social benefits of increased fish stocks 2–4 times higher than these costs.
Cost benefit analysis of fisheries management plans
Authors: Changeux T. , Bonnieux F. , Armand C.
Published: September 2010

The management of freshwater fisheries in France is generally entrusted to angling associations, which are in turn grouped into departmental federations. These associations, act under State supervision to protect the aquatic environment and develop recreational fisheries. The National Fishing Council has developed a general method for the formulation of departmental fishery management plans. More than half the departments of France have been involved in this programme since 1995. The approach focuses on the potential number of adult wild fish in each homogeneous ecological unit called a ‘context’. The cost of any rehabilitation work needed to restore habitat and to place the context under self‐sustaining management (called ‘patrimonial management’) is estimated. Examples of the way in which cost‐benefit analysis helps determine the economic viability of management plans are drawn from the Indre and Hérault, two departments with contrasting ecological and fishery situations. The analysis takes into account the value of wild fish in relation to stocked fish.
Density‐dependence of growth characteristics and maturation in stream‐dwelling resident brown trout, Salmo trutta, in Serbia
Authors: SIMONOVIĆ P. D. , NIKOLIĆ V. P.
Published: September 2010

Abstract  Breakpoints in both length and weight that represent the onset of first maturation, revealed that growth and maturation were correlated with density‐related parameters in stream‐dwelling resident brown trout, Salmo trutta L., from nine different rivers in Serbia. The determination of density dependence of growth is not simple, as both river width and depth, as single variables of habitat and relative biomass, and density were not significantly correlated with breakpoints. The significant relationship between breakpoints and the mean weight of brown trout (xp) suggests that differences in breakpoints were inversely related to brown trout density. The implications of density dependence for management of streams holding resident brown trout are discussed.
Benefits of repeated stocking with adult, hatchery‐reared brown trout, Salmo trutta, to recreational fisheries?
Authors: BAER J. , BLASEL K. , DIEKMANN M.
Published: September 2010

Abstract  Recaptures of adult, hatchery‐reared, brown trout, Salmo trutta L., and fishing time from anglers were used to evaluate the benefits of stocking programmes with repeated releases of adult brown trout. The recapture rate varied between 17% and 29%. The time between stocking and capture (referred to as residence time) varied between 1 and 160 days (median 3–49 days). Between 67% and 84% of trout caught in the river were recently released fish. Fishing effort increased after stocking, thereby increasing the impact of angling on wild stocks. Stocking with adult brown trout decreases the impact of angling on wild trout only if the time spent fishing by all anglers is kept stable. Furthermore, because of the short residence time of stocked trout, long‐term impacts through competition for space and food, or genetic impact through introgression, are limited.
Changes in yellow perch length frequencies and sex ratios following closure of the commercial fishery and reduction in sport bag limits in southern Lake Michigan
Authors: LAUER T. E. , DOLL J. C. , ALLEN P. J. , BREIDERT B. , PALLA J.
Published: September 2010

Abstract  The closure of the Indiana commercial fishery in Lake Michigan in 1997 provided the opportunity to examine the effects of commercial exploitation on the yellow perch, Perca flavescens (Mitchill), population. Data from annual gillnet and trawl sampling, recreational angler creel surveys and commercial fishing harvest were used to determine whether changes in length–frequency distributions and sex ratios were altered following closure. The proportions of large, adult yellow perch were significantly greater after the closure of the commercial fishery. Overexploitation of fish >200 mm by commercial harvest likely truncated the size distribution, but recreational harvest was comparatively small and did not appear to be a factor influencing size distributions. This post‐closure period also had a greater proportion of females in trawl catches, and the mean length of harvested fish increased in the recreational fishery. These findings suggest commercial exploitation influenced yellow perch population dynamics in far southern Lake Michigan.
Migration of silver American eels past a hydroelectric dam and through a coastal zone
Authors: CARR J. W. , WHORISKEY F. G.
Published: September 2010

Abstract  Twenty five silver American eels, Anguilla rostrata (Lesueur), were sonically tagged to determine the passage success at a recently reconstructed hydroelectric facility on the Magaguadavic River, and to explore the environmental correlates of surviving eel movements through the coastal zone to the Bay of Fundy. Downstream movements of many eels were delayed at the dam and tagged fish moved extensively in the reservoir, presumably searching for an exit. All 19 eels that entered the turbines died. Six eels survived by passing the dam either via a fish bypass chute (4), by spilling over the dam (1), or through a fish ladder for upstream migrating fish (1). Coastal zone movements of 20 control eels released downstream of the dam, and of the six survivors, were linked to environmental parameters (tides, luminosity). The efficiency of the downstream fish bypass at this site might be improved by altering water management strategies.
Emigration patterns among trout, Salmo trutta (L.), kelts and smolts through spillways in a hydroelectric dam
Authors: KRAABØL M. , ARNEKLEIV J. V. , MUSETH J.
Published: September 2010

Abstract  The emigration patterns among radio‐tagged trout, Salmo trutta L., kelts (n = 41, total length: 60–90 cm) and smolts [n = 27, total body length (BL): 22–30 cm] in the regulated River Gudbrandsdalslågen, south‐east Norway, were studied by investigating the influence of sex (kelts) and BL (kelts and smolts) on the timing of emigration. In total, 49% of the kelts emigrated towards the hydroelectric dam shortly after spawning, whilst 51% over‐wintered. Female kelts were five times more likely to initiate autumn emigration, and eight times more likely to descend the spillways during the first release of surface water than males. Large individuals of both sexes descended earlier than smaller individuals. Larger smolts were more likely to descend during the first release of surface water than smaller smolts. To safeguard the emigration of iteroparous trout kelts and smolts, the spillways should release surface water both in autumn and spring to avoid selective forces during emigration through spillways.