bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cigarette smoking and colorectal carcinoma mortality in a cohort with long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Colangelo Laura A. , Gapstur Susan M. , Gann Peter H. , Dyer Alan R.
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that colorectal carcinoma (CRC) may be a tobacco‐associated malignancy.

METHODS

In the current study, the authors examined the association between cigarette smoking and CRC mortality in the Chicago Heart Association Detection Project in Industry study, a cohort of 39,299 men and women with an average of 26 years of follow‐up. To assess whether the association was stronger in participants with a potentially long history of smoking, the authors also stratified the analysis using a baseline age ≥ 50 years versus < 50 years.

RESULTS

Using multivariate Cox regression analysis, there was a marginally significant trend (P = 0.06) for men and women combined between smoking and CRC mortality. In the age‐stratified analysis in the older participant group, there was no apparent association for men, women, or men and women combined. In the younger participant group, there appeared to be dose‐response relations for women and for men and women combined (P value for trend = 0.008 and 0.03, respectively) between smoking and CRC mortality. The relative risk for women who smoked >20 cigarettes/day compared with never smokers was 2.49 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.87–7.12), and was 1.87 for men and women combined (95% CI, 1.08–3.22).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the current study support an association between cigarette smoking and CRC mortality, particularly in women age < 50 years. Cancer 2004;100:288–93. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
Comparative genomic hybridization in primary sinonasal adenocarcinomas
Authors: Ariza Manuela , Luis Llorente José , Alvarez‐Marcas Cesar , Baragaño Lucia , Salas Ana , Rodriguez Prado Nuria , Hermsen Mario , Suárez Carlos , Sampedro Andres
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the genetic alterations that occur in sinonasal adenocarcinomas. The goal of the current study was to detect recurrent chromosomal gains and losses in a series of 21 primary sinonasal adenocarcinomas using comparative genomic hybridization (CGH).

METHODS

The authors examined ethmoid sinus adenocarcinoma samples from 21 patients. All 21 adenocarcinomas were associated with work‐related exposure to wood dust. CGH was used to detect chromosomal abnormalities, and the results of CGH analysis were evaluated for correlations with clinicopathologic characteristics.

RESULTS

Chromosomal gains and losses were detected in all 21 adenocarcinomas. Gains were detected at high frequencies at 7q11–21 (n = 15 [71%]), 18p11 (n = 14 [66%]), 8q11–22 (n = 13 [62%]), 5p11–13 (n = 12 [57%]), 12q11–13 and 19p (n = 11 [52%]), 20q (n = 10 [47%]), X and 5p (n = 9 [43%]), and 3q26–27 (n = 8 [38%]); and losses were detected at 8p22–23 (n = 18 [86%]), 18q22–23 (n = 17 [80%]), 17p13 (n = 12 [57%]), and 5q31–qter (n = 11 [52%]). Aside from low‐level gains, 43 high‐level amplifications were observed in the current series of 21 tumors, most commonly at Xq13 (n = 7 [33%]).

CONCLUSIONS

CGH revealed that ethmoid sinus adenocarcinomas carry a large number of chromosomal losses and gains, including high‐level amplifications. To the authors' knowledge, the current study represents the first attempt to investigate sinonasal adenocarcinomas on a genetic level by using CGH. The pattern of chromosomal abnormalities in these tumors was different from the pattern in other tumors within the same anatomic region (e.g., squamous cell carcinomas and salivary gland tumors); this finding may be explained by differences in etiology. Nonetheless, sinonasal adenocarcinomas appear to be genetically similar to adenocarcinomas of the stomach and colon, which also have an etiology that differs from that of sinonasal adenocarcinomas. Further study is necessary to better understand the molecular genetic basis underlying the development of sinonasal adenocarcinomas. In the near future, this type of understanding may present new possibilities for prevention and treatment of malignant disease. Cancer 2004;100:335–41. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
Androgen ablation therapy for prostate carcinoma suppresses the immunoreactive telomerase subunit hTERT
Authors: Iczkowski Kenneth A. , Huang Wei , Mazzucchelli Roberta , Pantazis Cooley G. , Stevens Gary R. , Montironi Rodolfo
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein complex that protects the ends of chromosomes from degradation. Its catalytic subunit, hTERT, controls its activity. Prior data in prostate carcinoma cases indicated that immunohistochemical hTERT reactivity increases with tumor grade and may be absent in lower grade cases. The effect of complete androgen ablation (CAA) on tumor hTERT expression was uncertain.

METHODS

hTERT immunostaining was performed on the cancerous pretreatment biopsy tissue of 30 men who consecutively underwent CAA with bicalutamide and goserelin acetate for 30 days prior to undergoing radical prostatectomy, and on their tumor tissue from radical prostatectomy. As controls, biopsy and prostatectomy samples from 30 untreated men were studied. Nuclear staining was evaluated by two observers, and the change in staining between biopsy and prostatectomy samples was evaluated using the Student t test in both groups.

RESULTS

The percent of reactive tumor nuclei in treated men declined from 36.7% to 13.2% (P = 0.0001), and declined from 19.8% to 16.1% in untreated men (P = 0.4). The greater mean hTERT reactivity in the treated men's biopsy specimens was attributed to an increased proportion of higher (Gleason score ≥ 7) grade tumors. The decline in hTERT immunostaining remained significant after normalizing it to that of the untreated group (P = 0.002). The original Gleason scores, corresponding declines in the percentage of reactive tumor nuclei, and significance were: Gleason score ≤ 6: 11% (P = 0.03); Gleason score of 7: 23% (P < 0.006); and Gleason score ≥ 8: 46% (P < 0.005) (from a mean 63% to 17%).

CONCLUSIONS

CAA for prostate carcinoma can be considered an antitelomerase therapy. The steepest reduction in telomerase activity was noted in the highest grade tumors. Cancer 2004;100:294–9. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
Human papillomavirus‐31‐related types predict better survival in cervical carcinoma
Authors: Huang Lee‐Wen , Chao Shiouh‐Lirng , Hwang Jiann‐Loung
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

The aim of the current study was to explore the clinical implications and prognostic value of human papillomavirus (HPV) genotype in cervical carcinomas.

METHODS

A total of 152 patients diagnosed with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics Stage I–IV cervical carcinoma were studied between 1992–1999. HPV DNA status was assessed from paraffin‐embedded, formaldehyde‐fixed cervical carcinoma specimens by polymerase chain reaction‐based methods using E7 type‐specific and L1 modified general primers (MY11/GP6+ and GP5+/GP6+). The authors divided the patients into four groups: HPV‐16‐related, HPV‐18‐related, HPV‐31‐related, and HPV‐58‐related types. The relations with clinicopathologic data and overall survival were evaluated.

RESULTS

HPV DNA was detected in 98% of the tumor specimens and 28.9% of the tumor specimens contained multiple HPV types. The HPV‐16‐related types were detected more often in squamous cell carcinomas, whereas the HPV‐18‐related types were more prevalent in adenocarcinomas and adenosquamous carcinomas. In addition, Stage I–II diseases were found more frequently in the HPV‐16‐related group than in the other groups (P = 0.001). Otherwise, no significant correlation between the HPV genotype and other clinicopathologic parameters was found. After a median follow‐up of 64.5 months, the 5‐year survival rate was 92% in the HPV‐31‐related group compared with 70% in the HPV‐16‐related group, 69% in the HPV‐18‐related group, and 36% in the HPV‐58‐related group. The survival rates statistically differed among the four groups by log‐rank test (P = 0.02). However, the presence of multiple HPV types was not associated with prognosis. After stratifying for clinical stage, multivariate analysis demonstrated that HPV genotype was an independent prognostic factor. Compared with the HPV‐16‐related group, the long‐term mortality rate was 73 % lower in the HPV‐31‐related group (relative risk, 0.27; 95% confidence interval, 0.09–0.76; P = 0.013).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of HPV‐31‐related types was an independent predictor of better survival in patients with cervical carcinoma. Therefore, HPV genotyping of cervical carcinomas may have profound implications for future patient management. Cancer 2004;100:327–34. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
Prospective randomized controlled study of interferon‐alpha in preventing hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after medical ablation therapy for primary tumors
Authors: Lin Shi‐Ming , Lin Chun‐Jung , Hsu Chao‐Wei , Tai Dar‐In , Sheen I‐Shyan , Lin Deng‐Yn , Liaw Yun‐Fan
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence after ablation therapy for primary tumors is common.

METHODS

To evaluate the effectiveness of interferon‐alpha (IFN‐α) in preventing HCC recurrence, 30 eligible patients were randomized into three groups: 11 patients treated with three mega units (MU) of IFN‐α three times weekly for 24 months (IFN‐α‐continuous group), 9 patients treated with 3 MU of IFN‐α daily for 10 days every month for 6 months followed by 3 MU of IFN‐α daily for 10 days every 3 months for a further 18 months (IFN‐α‐intermittent group), and 10 patients who received no IFN‐α therapy (control group). The three groups were comparable in terms of etiology, demographics, and laboratory data at entry and HCC characteristics.

RESULTS

After a median follow‐up of 27 months (range 4–53 months), 9 patients (90%) in the control group and 9 patients (45%) in 2 treatment groups (6 patients in the IFN‐α‐continuous group and 3 patients in the IFN‐α‐intermittent group) developed an HCC recurrence (P= 0.021). Cumulative HCC recurrence rates in the IFN‐α‐intermittent, IFN‐α‐continuous, and control groups were 22.2%, 27.3%, and 40% at the end of 1 year and 33.3%, 54.6%, and 90% at the end of 4 years (P= 0.0375), respectively (control vs. IFN‐α‐intermittent group,P= 0.0123; vs. IFN‐α‐continuous group,P= 0.0822). If both IFN‐α groups were combined, the cumulative HCC recurrence rate of the patients treated with IFN‐α and the control group was 25% and 40% at the end of 1 year and 47% and 90% at the end of 4 years, respectively (P= 0.0135).

CONCLUSIONS

The data suggested that IFN‐α therapy may reduce HCC recurrence after medical ablation therapy for primary tumors. Cancer 2004;100:376–82. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
Large cell neuroblastoma
Authors: Tornóczky Tamás , Kálmán Endre , Kajtár Pál G. , Nyári Tibor , Pearson Andrew D. J. , Tweddle Deborah A. , Board Julian , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

Among cases of undifferentiated and poorly differentiated tumors in the neuroblastoma (Schwannian stroma–poor) category, the authors histologically identified a group of rare tumors, known as large cell neuroblastomas (LCNs), that are composed of large cells with sharply outlined nuclear membranes and 1–4 prominent nucleoli.

METHODS

Histologic and immunohistochemical features of LCN were characterized. Morphologic characteristics, clinical features, and MYCN status were compared between LCNs and conventional neuroblastomas documented in the files of two European centers (the Sir James Spence Institute of Child Health, Royal Victoria Infirmary, University of Newcastle, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, and the Medical and Health Sciences Center, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary).

RESULTS

Of 92 peripheral neuroblastic tumors (pNTs; including neuroblastoma [n = 81]; ganglioneuroblastoma, intermixed [n = 6]; and ganglioneuroblastoma, nodular [n = 5]), 7 (7.6%) qualified as LCN. All 7 LCNs were classified as having unfavorable histology (UH) according to the International Neuroblastoma Pathology Classification. The LCNs were composed of monomorphous undifferentiated neuroblasts and shared certain histologic features, such as a high incidence of high mitosis‐karyorrhexis index and a low incidence of calcification, with other neuroblastomas in the conventional UH (c‐UH) group. These features were significantly different from those of neuroblastomas in the conventional favorable histology (c‐FH) group. On immunohistochemical analysis, LCN tumor cells were positive for neuron‐specific enolase (5 of 5 cases), protein gene product 9.5 (5 of 5 cases), synaptophysin (5 of 5 cases), tyrosine hydroxylase (focally in 3 of 3 cases), and NB84 (3 of 5 cases) and negative for CD99. Patients with LCN and patients with c‐UH disease had similar clinical features (diagnosis at age > 1 year, often with distant metastasis). The clinical features of these patients also were significantly different from those of patients with c‐FH disease. Further analysis demonstrated that the LCN group was significantly different from both the c‐UH and c‐FH groups with respect to MYCN status (MYCN amplification, 4 of 5 vs. 3 of 17 vs. 8 of 17, respectively; P = 0.023) and survival rate (4‐year expected survival, 0% vs. 71% vs. 17%, respectively; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Because of its unique clinicopathologic features, the authors propose that LCN be recognized as a distinct entity within the undifferentiated and poorly differentiated subtypes of the neuroblastoma category. Cancer 2004;100:390–7. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
News media coverage of human papillomavirus
Authors: Anhang Rebecca , Stryker Jo Ellen , Wright Thomas C. , Goldie Sue J.
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

Now that human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing is being incorporated into cervical cancer screening programs, salient and accurate media information about HPV will be crucial to inform women's screening choices and to manage psychosocial responses to HPV DNA test results.

METHODS

The authors conducted a content analysis of 111 news stories about HPV from the 10 most circulated newspapers and from 3 major television networks for the period from January 1995 through July 2002. Stories were assessed for predominant theme (STD, cancer, or new tests); information about symptoms, transmission, prevention, and cancer‐causing properties of HPV; screening test descriptions; and recommended screening guidelines.

RESULTS

Thirty‐six percent of stories primarily were about new tests for HPV or cervical cancer, 30% of stories focused on cervical cancer or its link to HPV, and 27% of stories emphasized sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or genital warts. Seventy‐nine percent of stories mentioned that HPV is an STD, and 50% of stories reported that HPV is very common. Twenty‐six percent of stories reported that most women with HPV will not develop cervical carcinoma. Of 81 stories that mentioned a screening test for HPV or cervical carcinoma, 38% reported the sensitivity of the test; 30% mentioned wrong, uncertain, or unnecessary test results; and 25% mentioned consequences of such results.

CONCLUSIONS

Media coverage of HPV could better fulfill women's educational needs by including information about low‐risk and high‐risk types of HPV and their differing links to cervical cancer; describing HPV prevention, transmission, and symptoms; explaining the benefits and consequences of HPV testing; and outlining the latest screening guidelines in every story. Cancer 2004;100:308–14. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
Women's desired information about human papillomavirus
Authors: Anhang Rebecca , Wright Thomas C. , Smock Laura , Goldie Sue J.
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

As human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing is incorporated into cervical carcinoma screening programs, educational messages must be developed to inform women's screening choices and manage psychosocial responses to HPV DNA test results. However, little is known about women's questions and concerns about HPV or their attitudes toward HPV testing.

METHODS

Eight focus groups with 48 ethnically diverse, low‐income women were conducted at community centers, family planning and primary care clinics, and substance abuse rehabilitation facilities in Massachusetts.

RESULTS

The participants' comments and questions about HPV revealed five major themes. First, most women overestimated the likelihood that women with HPV would develop cancer. Second, women struggled to balance the anxiety of knowing that HPV infection causes cervical carcinoma with the information that HPV infection often regresses without treatment. Third, many women were confused that Papanicolaou smear results could be normal when HPV infection is present. Fourth, women preferred to receive a personalized risk profile to assess their own likelihood of contracting HPV infection and cervical carcinoma. Fifth, younger women focused on the sexual transmission of HPV infection, rather than on its potential to cause cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Effective HPV education must include information about transmission, prevention, treatment, and cervical carcinoma risk; tailor messages to describe HPV susceptibility according to age and risk profile; present clarification regarding HPV strains and their consequences; offer explanations of different types of tests and their results; and provide a balance between accurate discussion of cancer risk and reassurance that following recommended screening practices will reduce risk to negligible levels. Cancer 2004;100:315–20. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
Quality of life as a survival predictor for patients with advanced head and neck carcinoma treated with radiotherapy
Authors: Fang Fu‐Min , Liu Yi‐Tien , Tang Yeh , Wang Chong‐Jong , Ko Sheung‐Fat
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

Accumulating reports suggest that quality of life (QoL) may predict survival in patients with malignant disease. In the current study, the authors investigated if baseline QoL and changes in QoL during treatment were prognostic for patients with advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) treated with radiotherapy.

METHODS

The authors studied 102 consecutive new patients with HNSCC treated with primary radiotherapy. The Taiwan Chinese versions of the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ‐C30) and Head and Neck Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ‐H&N35) were completed before and during radiotherapy. The Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyze the impact of clinical and QoL variables on survival.

RESULTS

Clinical variables that were significant survival predictors included American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage, N status, and Karnofsky performance status (KPS) after multivariate analysis. After introducing the QoL variables, baseline fatigue scale and N status emerged as the most significant survival predictors, whereas KPS lost its significance. Changes in the QoL scales during radiotherapy were not significantly correlated with survival. An increase in the baseline fatigue score of 10 points corresponded to a 17% reduction in the likelihood of survival (95% confidence interval: 8–27%). Significant correlations between baseline fatigue scale and KPS, comorbidity, hemoglobin level, AJCC stage, T status, and most QoL scales also were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The data support the correlation of patient reported QoL scales with survival. Pretreatment fatigue level was a significant survival predictor for patients with advanced HNSCC treated with radiotherapy. Cancer 2004;100:425–32. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
Smoking causes colon carcinoma
Authors: Colditz Graham A. , Yaus Kathleen P.
Published: January 2004

In the study by Colangelo et. al., the authors reported their findings regarding the correlation between smoking and mortality from colorectal carcinoma in a cohort of 39,299 subjects with an average of 26 years of follow‐up. The editorial concludes that smoking causes colon cancer and tobacco control should be the highest public health priority.

See also pages 288–93.
Human papillomavirus infections
Authors: Monk Bradley J. , Wiley Dorothy J.
Published: January 2004

In this issue of Cancer, Anhang et al. present a review of written and verbal media reports that concern human papillomavirus infection, cervical cancer screening, and sexually transmitted infection. Their findings suggest that it is little wonder that the public is informed so inadequately about the virus, the consequences of infection, and the natural history of cervical neoplasia.

See also pages 308–14.
Racial disparities in the use of and indications for colorectal procedures in Medicare beneficiaries
Authors: Cooper Gregory S. , Koroukian Siran M.
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

African Americans are diagnosed more frequently with colorectal carcinoma at a later stage compared with Caucasians. One potential reason for the disparity is a lower rate of screening examinations.

METHODS

Using Outpatient and Physician‐Supplier claims for all Medicare beneficiaries age ≥ 65 years in 1999, indications for fecal occult blood testing (FOBT), sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and barium enema were divided into diagnostic, surveillance, or screening categories. Annualized rates were calculated based on the number of eligible fee‐for‐service months.

RESULTS

Rates of FOBT (18.24% vs. 11.86%; P < 0.001) and sigmoidoscopy (3.07% vs. 2.17%; P < 0.001) were higher in Caucasians compared with African Americans, whereas rates of barium enema were higher in African Americans (2.26% vs. 1.88%; P < 0.001). Colonoscopy use was more frequent among men only in Caucasians compared with African‐Americans (8.00% vs. 6.97%; P < 0.001). For FOBT, sigmoidoscopy, and colonoscopy, the racial differences in procedures performed for diagnostic purposes were of smaller magnitude than for screening; and, for colonoscopy, the use of diagnostic procedures actually was higher for African Americans.

CONCLUSIONS

Racial disparities exist not only in the use of colorectal procedures but also in the indications for such testing, with African Americans less likely to undergo screening tests. The differences are consistent with delay in ;100:418–24. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
Growth of IrO2 Films and Nanorods by Means of CVD: An Example of Compositional and Morphological Control of Nanostructures
Authors: Chen R.‐S. , Chen Y.‐S. , Huang Y.‐S. , Chen Y.‐L. , Chi Y. , Liu C.‐S. , Tiong K.‐K. , Carty A.J.
Published: January 2004

Conductive iridium oxide films or one‐dimensional nanorods are deposited using (MeCp)Ir(COD). A systematic investigation is carried out, showing a close correlation of morphology with deposition pressure and oxygen partial pressure. Of particular interest, are the vertically aligned IrO2 nanorods (see Figure) deposited at 350 °C in 30 torr of oxygen. The surface morphology and structural composition of the materials are confirmed.
Pyrolytic Laser CVD of Boron Nitride and Molybdenum
Authors: Duty C. , Johnson R. , Bondi S. , Lackey W.J.
Published: January 2004

The first pyrolytic laser deposition of boron nitride and molybdenum is reported. The deposition from borazine and molybdenum pentachloride on variety of substrates is demonstrated including graphite, alumina and tungsten. The deposition of boron nitride on graphite produces very short fibers while its deposition on alumina results in uniform shallow dots. Molybdenum layers deposited on graphite at temperatures above 1150 °C are more fibrous and porous whereas films deposited at lower temperatures are flat and flaky. The morphology of each material has also been related to the operating parameters of the gas‐jet LCVD system.
Polymorphous Silicon Films Deposited at 27.12 MHz
Authors: Martins R. , Águas H. , Ferreira I. , Fortunato E. , Lebib S. , Roca i Cabarrocas P. , Guimarães L.
Published: January 2004

This paper describes, for the first time, a method of producing polymorphous silicon (pm‐Si:H) films by plasma‐enhanced (PE) CVD, using an excitation frequency of 27.12  MHz. The aim is to produce, at high growth rates, nanostructured films that are more stable than the conventional amorphous or polymorphous silicon films grown by PECVD at 13.56  MHz. The processing data show that, at 27.12  MHz, the pm‐Si:H films are produced close to the transition region from amorphous to microcrystalline silicon films, at a growth rate of about 0.3  nm s–1, using pressures above 160  Pa. Apart from that, the analysis of the exodiffusion, spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE), and micro Raman data reveal that these films are more dense and compact than the polymorphous films grown at 13.56  MHz.
Growth of Hafnium Dioxide Thin Films by Liquid‐Injection MOCVD Using Alkylamide and Hydroxylamide Precursors
Authors: Williams P.A. , Jones A.C. , Tobin N.L. , Chalker P.R. , Taylor S. , Marshall P.A. , Bickley J.F. , Smith L.M. , Davies H.O. , Critchlow G.W.
Published: January 2004

Thin films of HfO2 have been deposited by liquid‐injection metal–organic (MO)CVD using two nitrogen‐containing precursors [Hf(NMe2)4] and [Hf(ONEt2)4]. The [Hf(NMe2)4] precursor deposits oxide at lower growth temperatures and over a wider temperature range than [Hf(ONEt2)4]. Varying levels of residual carbon and nitrogen were detected in the films grown from each precursor. Analysis by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) indicates that films grown from both precursors exist predominantly in the thermodynamically stable monoclinic phase. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows that the morphology of the HfO2 films from each precursor is markedly different, with films deposited from [Hf(NMe2)4] having a well‐defined columnar crystalline structure, whereas films grown from [Hf(ONEt2)4] are smoother with little evidence of columnar structure. Full crystal structure data for [Hf(NMe2)4] are given, and the dielectric properties of [Al/HfO2/n‐Si(100)] MOS capacitors, fabricated using each precursor, are also reported.
Autobiographical memories in patients treated for bulimia nervosa
Authors: Laberg Stine , Andersson Gerhard
Published: January 2004

Objective:

Previous research has shown that individuals suffering from depression and other emotional disorders such as post‐traumatic stress disorder and delusional disorder have difficulties being specific in autobiographical memory. The aim of this study was to investigate autobiographical memories in patients treated for bulimia nervosa.

Method:

A sample of 18 women recently treated for bulimia nervosa were tested using the Autobiographical Memory Test.

Results:

Results showed that bulimic patients had difficulty retrieving specific memories, and retrieved an excess of categoric memories. Bulimic patients also had longer response latencies to both positive and negative cue words than a control group of 18 matched women without any history of eating disorder. There was little relation between severity of depression (Beck Depression Inventory) and specificity in autobiographical memory.

Discussion:

Findings suggest that persistent memory biases could be worth considering in the treatment of bulimic patients. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Binge eating disorder and non‐purging bulimia: more similar than different?
Authors: Vervaet M. , van Heeringen C. , Audenaert K.
Published: January 2004

There is evidence of an overlap of symptoms between binge‐eating disordered (BED) and bulimia nervosa non‐purging (BN‐NP) patients. In addition, there are indications of an evolution from bulimia nervosa to BED along a continuum of vulnerability. However, DSM‐IV categorizes BED and BN‐NP as distinct disorders based on clinical characteristics. In this study weight history and personality‐related characteristics (TCI; Cloninger, Svrakic, & Przybeck, 1993) were studied in 30 BED and 17 BN‐NP patients. BED patients were older, and had a longer duration of illness, a larger weight cycling, a higher current and previous BMI and a lower score for the temperament dimension ‘Persistence’ than BN‐NP patients. After correcting for age, differences between weight variables remained, including comparatively higher BMIs and larger weight fluctuations among the BED patients. A possible explanation is that this difference is due to a genetic effect of the propensity to be overweight and the temperamental characteristic of Persistence. This ‘morbid’ starting position and the lack of controlling mechanisms are associated with a more trait‐ than state‐dependent condition. Thus, restrained eating is not to be regarded as eliciting bingeing in BED patients. Due to personality characteristics these patients are not able to restrain, which clearly differentiates them from BN‐NP patients. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Coping style and vulnerability to eating disorders in adolescent boys
Authors: García‐Grau Eugeni , Fusté Adela , Miró Anna , Saldaña Carmina , Bados Arturo
Published: January 2004

The main goal of this study was to analyse the relationship between coping styles and the predisposition to eating disorders in a sample of adolescent boys. The sample comprised 171 males (mean age 15.74 years) and the questionnaires used were the Eating Disorders Inventory‐2 (EDI‐2) and the Adolescent Coping Scale (ACS). The results indicated that self‐blame, a scale of the dimension intropunitive avoidance, characterized by self‐blaming excessively in the face of problems, was the strategy most closely linked to the predisposition to eating disorders. This scale accounted for 18 per cent of the variance of the total score of the EDI‐2, 11 per cent of the drive for thinness and 10 per cent of the body dissatisfaction. Several hypotheses are presented in an attempt to account for the differences between the results of this study and those obtained by studies carried out with adolescent girls. Finally, the need for prevention programmes for adolescents, in particular in groups at risk, is emphasized. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS): profiles of clients presenting at a community eating disorder service
Authors: Turner Hannah , Bryant‐Waugh Rachel
Published: January 2004

Objective

A substantial proportion of eating disorder presentations receive a DSM‐IV diagnosis of eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS), yet research comparing EDNOS with anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) is limited. The aim of this study was to further investigate EDNOS in clients at a UK Community Eating Disorder Service.

Method

The Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) was used to generate DSM‐IV diagnoses. Clinical profiles of EDNOS clients are compared with those of patients with AN and BN and cluster analysis used to identify subgroups based on presenting features rather than diagnosis.

Results

190 of 200 participants had a clinical eating disorder: 11 had AN, 45 had BN, 134 had EDNOS. Cluster analysis suggested four subgroups within the clinical sample: three with similar cognitive psychopathology but varied behavioural presentation, and one with less severe cognitive and behavioural features, but low mean BMI.

Discussion

These results highlight the need for further investigation into EDNOS and its usefulness as a diagnosis. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Strict versus lenient weight criterion in anorexia nervosa
Authors: McIntosh Virginia V. W. , Jordan Jennifer , Carter Frances A. , McKenzie Janice M. , Luty Suzanne E. , Bulik Cynthia M. , Joyce Peter R.
Published: January 2004

The present study evaluates the current BMI cut‐off for diagnosing anorexia nervosa. Physical state, eating disorder and general psychopathology were compared in two groups diagnosed with anorexia nervosa, using ‘strict’ or ‘lenient’ weight criteria (above or below the generally accepted BMI cut‐off of 17.5 kg/m2). Individuals in the lenient group had a higher percentage body fat and a greater discrepancy between current and ideal body weight, but there were no differences between the two groups on other body image measures. The strict group had met criteria for strict anorexia nervosa for a greater proportion of the past 5 years, but there was no difference in the number of months with anorexia nervosa. On all other variables, the two groups were indistinguishable. These results challenge the cut‐off of BMI 17.5 kg/m2 in the diagnosis of anorexia nervosa. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Trends in the literature on eating disorders over 36 years (1965‐2000): terminology, interpretation and treatment
Authors: Theander Sten S.
Published: January 2004

A database with more than 14 700 references to articles on ED during 1965–2000 was analysed with the aim of identifying long‐term and short‐term trends in the literature. The main data of the analysis are the percentages of references per 6‐year period or per year for the most recent 6 years, that contain certain words or phrases. The use of words in references should reflect changes in the content of the scientific papers. Trends over time have been noted in the use of terms on diagnostics, personality, comorbidity, psychotherapy, epidemiology, biology and course of illness. The use of words on psychoanalysis has diminished, while the use of biological words has increased. The discussion concerns the use of bibliographic methods and especially the general problems of using data from digital databases as a research tool in the search for trends in the development of a medical field. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Disgust and disgust sensitivity in bulimia nervosa: an fMRI study
Authors: Schienle Anne , Stark Rudolf , Schäfer Axel , Walter Bertram , Kirsch Peter , Vaitl Dieter
Published: January 2004

This study attempted to demonstrate an elevated disgust sensitivity in bulimia nervosa. Eleven bulimic patients and 12 control subjects underwent a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study in which they were presented with alternating blocks of 40 disgust‐inducing, 40 fear‐inducing and 40 affectively neutral scenes. Each scene was shown for 1.5 s. After completion of all blocks, affective ratings were then determined. The viewing of the disgusting pictures, which had been rated as highly repulsive by the bulimic females, was associated with an activation of the left amygdala and the occipito‐temporal visual cortex. The subjective and brain‐physiological responses did not differ from those of the healthy control subjects. This held true for the fear‐inducing scenes as well. Thus, bulimic patients are not characterized by an increased global disgust sensitivity and they do not show any indication of an altered central processing of generally disgust and fear‐inducing visual stimuli. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Switching asymmetric GARCH and options on a volatility index
Authors: Daouk Hazem , Guo Jie Qun
Published: January 2004

Few proposed types of derivative securities have attracted as much attention and interest as option contracts
on volatility. Grunbichler and Longstaff (1996) is the only study that proposes a model to value
options written on a volatility index. Their model, which is based on modeling volatility as a GARCH process,
does not take into account the switching regime and asymmetry properties of volatility. We show that the
Grunbichler and Longstaff (1996) model underprices a three‐month option by about 10%. A
Switching Regime Asymmetric GARCH is used to model the generating process of security returns. The comparison
between the switching regime model and the traditional uni‐regime model among GARCH, EGARCH, and
GJR‐GARCH demonstrates that a switching regime EGARCH model fits the data best. Next, the values of
European call options written on a volatility index are computed using Monte Carlo integration. When comparing
the values of the option based on the Switching Regime Asymmetric GARCH model and the traditional GARCH
specification, it is found that the option values obtained from the different processes are very different. This
clearly shows that the Grunbichler‐Longstaff model is too stylized to be used in pricing derivatives on a
volatility index. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 24:251–282, 2004
Natural gas prices and the gas storage report: Public news and volatility in energy futures markets
Authors: Linn Scott C. , Zhu Zhen
Published: January 2004

This study examines the short‐term volatility of natural gas prices through an examination of the
intraday prices of the nearby natural gas futures contract traded on the New York Mercantile Exchange. The
influence on volatility of what many regard as a key element of the information set influencing the natural gas
market is investigated. Specifically, we examine the impact on natural gas futures price volatility of the
Weekly American Gas Storage Survey report compiled and issued by the American Gas Association during the period
January 1, 1999 through May 3, 2002 and the subsequent weekly report compiled and issued by the U.S. Energy
Information Administration after May 6, 2002. We find that the weekly gas storage report announcement was
responsible for considerable volatility at the time of its release and that volatility up to 30 minutes
following the announcement was also higher than normal. Aside from these results, we document pronounced price
volatility in this market both at the beginning of the day and at the end of the day and offer explanations for
such behavior. Our results are robust to the manner in which the mean percentage change in the futures price is
estimated and to correlation of these changes both within the day and across days. © 2004 Wiley
Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 24:283–313, 2004
Common risk factors in the U.S. and UK interest rate swap markets: Evidence from a nonlinear vector autoregression approach
Authors: Lekkos Ilias , Milas Costas
Published: January 2004

This paper produces evidence in support of the existence of common risk factors in the U.S. and UK interest
rate swap markets. Using a multivariate smooth transition autoregression (STVAR) framework, we show
that the dynamics of the U.S. and UK swap spreads are best described by a regime‐switching model. We
identify the existence of two distinct regimes in U.S. and UK swap spreads; one is characterized by a
“flat” term structure of U.S. interest rates and the other is characterized by an
“upward” sloping U.S. term structure. In addition, we show that there exist significant asymmetries
on the impact of the common risk factors on the U.S. and UK swap spreads. Shocks to UK oriented risk factors
have a strong effect on the U.S. swap markets during the “flat” slope regime but a very limited
effect otherwise. On the other hand, U.S. risk factors have a significant impact on the UK swap markets in both
regimes. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 24:221–250, 2004
Role of thromboxane derived from COX-1 and -2 in hepatic microcirculatory dysfunction during endotoxemia in mice
Authors: Katagiri Hiroyuki , Ito Yoshiya , Ishii Ken-ichiro , Hayashi Izumi , Suematsu Makoto , Yamashina Shohei , Murata Takahiko , Narumiya Shuh , Kakita Akira , Majima Masataka
Published: January 2004

Although thromboxanes (TXs), whose synthesis is regulated by cyclooxygenase (COX), have been suggested to promote inflammation in the liver, little is known about the role of TXA2 in leukocyte endothelial interaction during endotoxemia. The present study was conducted to investigate the role of TXA2 as well as that of COX in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced hepatic microcirculatory dysfunction in male C57Bl/6 mice. We observed during in vivo fluorescence microscopic study that LPS caused significant accumulation of leukocytes adhering to the hepatic microvessels and non-perfused sinusoids. Levels of serum alanine transaminase (ALT) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) also increased. LPS raised the TXB2 level in the perfusate from isolated perfused liver. A TXA2 synthase inhibitor, OKY-046, and a TXA2 receptor antagonist, S-1452, reduced LPS-induced hepatic microcirculatory dysfunction by inhibiting TNFα production. OKY-046 suppressed the expression of an intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 in an LPS-treated liver. In thromboxane prostanoid receptor-knockout mice, hepatic responses to LPS were minimized in comparison with those in their wild-type counterparts. In addition, a selective COX-1 inhibitor, SC-560, a selective COX-2 inhibitor, NS-398, and indomethacin significantly attenuated hepatic responses to LPS including microcirculatory dysfunction and release of ALT and TNFα. The effects of the COX inhibitors on hepatic responses to LPS exhibited results similar to those obtained with TXA2 synthase inhibitor, and TXA2 receptor antagonist. In conclusion, these results suggest that TXA2 is involved in LPS-induced hepatic microcirculatory dysfunction partly through the release of TNFα, and that TXA2 derived from COX-1 and COX-2 could be responsible for the microcirculatory dysfunction during endotoxemia. (Hepatology 2004;39:139-150.)
Reactive oxygen species suppress hepatitis C virus RNA replication in human hepatoma cells
Authors: Choi Jinah , Lee Ki Jeong , Zheng Yanyan , Yamaga Ardath K. , Lai Michael M.C. , Ou Jing-hsiung
Published: January 2004

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a positive-stranded RNA virus that causes severe liver diseases, such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. HCV uses an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase to replicate its genome and an internal ribosomal entry site to translate its proteins. HCV infection is characterized by an increase in the concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the effect of which on HCV replication has yet to be determined. In this report, we investigated the effect of ROS on HCV replication, using a bicistronic subgenomic RNA replicon and a genomic RNA that can replicate in human hepatoma cells. The treatment with peroxide at concentrations that did not deplete intracellular glutathione or induce cell death resulted in significant decreases in the HCV RNA level in the cells. This response could be partially reversed by the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine. Further studies indicated that such a suppressive response to ROS was not due to the suppression of HCV protein synthesis or the destabilization of HCV RNA. Rather, it occurred rapidly at the level of RNA replication. ROS appeared to disrupt active HCV replication complexes, as they reduced the amount of NS3 and NS5A in the subcellular fraction where active HCV RNA replication complexes were found. In conclusion, our results show that ROS can rapidly inhibit HCV RNA replication in human hepatoma cells. The increased ROS levels in hepatitis C patients may therefore play an important role in the suppression of HCV replication. (Hepatology 2004;39:81-89.)
Cholestasis shuts down calcium signaling in cholangiocytes
Authors: Martin Juliette , Dufour Jean-François , Jaeschke Hartmut , Mullen Kevin , Moradpour Darius
Published: January 2004

Abstract

Background & Aims:

Cholestasis is one of the principal manifestations of liver disease and often results from disorders involving bile duct epithelia rather than hepatocytes. A range of disorders affects biliary epithelia, and no unifying pathophysiologic event in these cells has been identified as the cause of cholestasis. Here we examined the role of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (InsP3R)/Ca(2+) release channel in Ca(2+) signaling and ductular secretion in animal models of cholestasis and in patients with cholestatic disorders. Methods: The expression and distribution of the InsP3R and related proteins were examined in rat cholangiocytes before and after bile duct ligation or treatment with endotoxin. Ca(2+) signaling was examined in isolated bile ducts from these animals, whereas ductular bicarbonate secretion was examined in isolated perfused livers. Confocal immunofluorescence was used to examine cholangiocyte InsP3R expression in human liver biopsy specimens. Results: Expression of the InsP3R was selectively lost from biliary epithelia after bile duct ligation or endotoxin treatment. As a result, Ca(2+) signaling and Ca(2+)-mediated bicarbonate secretion were lost as well, although other components of the Ca(2+) signaling pathway and adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP)-mediated bicarbonate secretion both were preserved. Examination of human liver biopsy specimens showed that InsP3Rs also were lost from bile duct epithelia in a range of human cholestatic disorders, although InsP3R expression was intact in noncholestatic liver disease. Conclusions: InsP3R-mediated Ca(2+) signaling in bile duct epithelia appears to be important for normal bile secretion in the liver, and loss of InsP3Rs may be a final common pathway for cholestasis.
Genipin enhances Mrp2 (Abcc2)-mediated bile formation and organic anion transport in rat liver
Authors: Shoda Junichi , Miura Tetsuo , Utsunomiya Hirotoshi , Oda Koji , Yamamoto Masahiro , Kano Masahito , Ikegami Tadashi , Tanaka Naomi , Akita Hidetaka , Ito Kousei , Suzuki Hiroshi , Sugiyama Yuichi
Published: January 2004

Inchin-ko-to (ICKT), an herbal medicine, and its ingredients exert potent choleretic effects by a “bile acid-independent” mechanism. The current study was designed to determine whether ICKT or its ingredients potentiate multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 (Mrp2; Abcc2)-mediated choleresis in vivo. Biliary secretion of Mrp2 substrates and the protein mass, subcellular localization, and messenger RNA (mRNA) level of Mrp2 were assessed in rat liver after infusion of genipin, an intestinal bacterial metabolite of geniposide, a major ingredient of ICKT. The function of Mrp2 was also assessed by the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-dependent uptake of Mrp2-specific substrates using canalicular membrane vesicles (CMVs) from the liver. Infusion of genipin increased bile flow by 230%. It also increased biliary secretion of bilirubin conjugates and reduced glutathione (GSH) by 513% and 336%, respectively, but did not increase bile acid secretion. The ATP-dependent uptake of estradiol 17-β-D-glucuronide (E217βG; by 265%), leukotriene C4 (LTC4; by 161%), taurolithocholate-3-sulfate (TLC-3S; by 266%), and methotrexate (MTX; by 234%) was significantly stimulated in the CMVs from the liver. These effects were not observed in Mrp2-deficient rats. Under these conditions, genipin treatment increased the protein mass of Mrp2 in the CMVs but not the mRNA level. In immunoelectron microscopic studies, a marked increase in Mrp2 density in the canalicular membrane (CM) and microvilli was observed in the genipin-treated liver tissue sections when compared with the vehicle-treated liver tissue sections. In conclusion, genipin may enhance the bile acid-independent secretory capacity of hepatocytes, mainly by stimulation of exocytosis and insertion of Mrp2 in the bile canaliculi. ICKT may be a potent therapeutic agent for a number of cholestatic liver diseases. (Hepatology 2004;39:167-178.)