bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acetylcholine elongates neuronal growth cone filopodia via activation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors
Authors: Zhong Lei Ray , Estes Stephen , Artinian Liana , Rehder Vincent
Published: January 2013

In addition to acting as a classical neurotransmitter in synaptic transmission, acetylcholine (ACh) has been shown to play a role in axonal growth and growth cone guidance. What is not well understood is how ACh acts on growth cones to affect growth cone filopodia, structures known to be important for neuronal pathfinding. We addressed this question using an identified neuron (B5) from the buccal ganglion of the pond snail Helisoma trivolvis in cell culture. ACh treatment caused pronounced filopodial elongation within minutes, an effect that required calcium influx and resulted in the elevation of the intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca]i). Whole‐cell patch clamp recordings showed that ACh caused a reduction in input resistance, a depolarization of the membrane potential, and an increase in firing frequency in B5 neurons. These effects were mediated via the activation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), as the nAChR agonist dimethylphenylpiperazinium (DMPP) mimicked the effects of ACh on filopodial elongation, [Ca]i elevation, and changes in electrical activity. Moreover, the nAChR antagonist tubucurarine blocked all DMPP‐induced effects. Lastly, ACh acted locally at the growth cone, because growth cones that were physically isolated from their parent neuron responded to ACh by filopodial elongation with a similar time course as growth cones that remained connected to their parent neuron. Our data revealed a critical role for ACh as a modulator of growth cone filopodial dynamics. ACh signaling was mediated via nAChRs and resulted in Ca influx, which, in turn, caused filopodial elongation. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 73: 487–501, 2013
Increased extracellular matrix and proangiogenic factor transcription in endothelial cells after cocultivation with primary human osteoblasts
Authors: Simunovic F. , Steiner D. , Pfeifer D. , Stark G.B. , Finkenzeller Günter , Lampert F.
Published: January 2013

The most promising strategies in bone engineering have concentrated on providing sufficient vascularization to support the newly forming tissue. In this context, recent research in the field has focused on studying the complex interactions between bone forming and endothelial cells. Our previous work has demonstrated that direct contact cocultivation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with primary human osteoblasts (hOBs) induces the osteogenic phenotype and survival of hOBs. In order to investigate the mechanisms that lead to this effect, we performed microarray gene expression profiling on HUVECs following cocultivation with hOBs. Our data reveal profound transcriptomic changes that are dependent on direct cell contact between these cell populations. Pathway analysis using the MetaCore™ platform and literature research suggested a striking upregulation of transcripts related to extracellular matrix and cell‐matrix interactions. Upregulation of a number of major angiogenetic factors confirms previous observations that HUVECs enter a proangiogenic state upon cocultivation with osteoblasts. Interestingly, the downregulated transcripts clustered predominantly around cell cycle‐related processes. The microarray data were confirmed by quantitative real‐time RT‐PCR on selected genes. Taken together, this study provides a platform for further inquiries in complex interactions between endothelial cells and osteoblasts. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 1584–1594, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Truncated thioredoxin (Trx‐80) promotes pro‐inflammatory macrophages of the M1 phenotype and enhances atherosclerosis
Authors: Mahmood Dler Faieeq Darweesh , Abderrazak Amna , Couchie Dominique , Lunov Oleg , Diderot Vimala , Syrovets Tatiana , Slimane Mohamed‐Naceur , Gosselet Fabien , Simmet Thomas , Rouis Mustapha , El Hadri Khadija
Published: January 2013

Vascular cells are particularly susceptible to oxidative stress that is believed to play a key role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disorders. Thioredoxin‐1 (Trx‐1) is an oxidative stress‐limiting protein with anti‐inflammatory and anti‐apoptotic properties. In contrast, its truncated form (Trx‐80) exerts pro‐inflammatory effects. Here we analyzed whether Trx‐80 might exert atherogenic effects by promoting macrophage differentiation into the M1 pro‐inflammatory phenotype. Trx‐80 at 1 µg/ml significantly attenuated the polarization of anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophages induced by exposure to either IL‐4 at 15 ng/ml or IL‐4/IL‐13 (10 ng/ml each) in vitro, as evidenced by the expression of the characteristic markers, CD206 and IL‐10. By contrast, in LPS‐challenged macrophages, Trx‐80 significantly potentiated the differentiation into inflammatory M1 macrophages as indicated by the expression of the M1 cytokines, TNF‐α and MCP‐1. When Trx‐80 was administered to hyperlipoproteinemic ApoE2.Ki mice at 30 µg/g body weight (b.w.) challenged either with LPS at 30 µg/30 g (b.w.) or IL‐4 at 500 ng/30 g (b.w.), it significantly induced the M1 phenotype but inhibited differentiation of M2 macrophages in thymus and liver. When ApoE2.Ki mice were challenged once weekly with LPS for 5 weeks, they showed severe atherosclerotic lesions enriched with macrophages expressing predominantly M1 over M2 markers. Such effect was potentiated when mice received daily, in addition to LPS, the Trx‐80. Moreover, the Trx‐80 treatment led to a significantly increased aortic lesion area. The ability of Trx‐80 to promote differentiation of macrophages into the classical proinflammatory phenotype may explain its atherogenic effects in cardiovascular diseases. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 1577–1583, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Macrophages derived from septic mice modulate nitric oxide synthase and angiogenic mediators in the heart
Authors: de la Torre Eulalia , Hovsepian Eugenia , Penas Federico N. , Dmytrenko Ganna , Castro María E. , Goren Nora B. , Sales Maria E.
Published: January 2013

Macrophages (Mps) can exert the defense against invading pathogens. During sepsis, bacterial lipopolisaccharide (LPS) activates the production of inflammatory mediators by Mps. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) derived‐nitric oxide (NO) is one of them. Besides, Mps may produce pro‐angiogenic molecules such as vascular endothelial growth factor‐A (VEGF‐A) and metalloproteinases (MMPs). The mechanisms involved in the cardiac neovascular response by Mps during sepsis are not completely known. We investigated the ability of LPS‐treated Mps from septic mice to modulate the behavior of cardiac cells as producers of NO and angiogenic molecules. In vivo LPS treatment (0.1 mg/mouse) increased NO production more than fourfold and induced de novo NOS2 expression in Mps. Immunoblotting assays also showed an induction in VEGF‐A and MMP‐9 expression in lysates obtained from LPS‐treated Mps, and MMP‐9 activity was detected by zymography in cell supernatants. LPS‐activated Mps co‐cultured with normal heart induced the expression of CD31 and VEGF‐A in heart homogenates and increased MMP‐9 activity in the supernatants. By immunohistochemistry, we detected new blood vessel formation in hearts cultured with LPS treated Mps. When LPS‐stimulated Mps were co‐cultured with isolated cardiomyocytes in a transwell assay, the expression of NOS2, VEGF‐A and MMP‐9 was induced in cardiac cells. In addition, MMP‐9 activity was up‐regulated in the supernatant of cardiomyocytes. The latter was due to NOS2 induction in Mps from in vivo LPS‐treated mice. In conclusion LPS‐treated Mps are inducers of inflammatory/angiogenic mediators in cardiac cells, which could be triggering neovascularization, as an attempt to improve cardiac performance in sepsis. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 1584–1593, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tree‐ring‐based temperature reconstruction for the northern Greater Higgnan Mountains, China, since A.D. 1717
Authors: Zhang Tongwen , Yuan Yujiang , Wei Wenshou , Yu Shulong , Zhang Ruibo , Shang Huaming , Chen Feng , Fan Zi'ang , Qin Li
Published: January 2013

In this paper, ring‐width chronologies of pine trees (Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica) from one sampling site in the northern Greater Higgnan Mountains, China, were constructed. The results of growth‐climate responses show that mean temperature is the limiting factor affecting radial growth of pine trees in the study area. Consequently, mean temperature from May to October from 1717 to 2008 has been reconstructed using the standard chronology. For the calibrated period (1957‐2008), the explained variance of the reconstruction is 57%. The characteristics of the reconstruction expose that mean temperature has increased since the 1970s, and the decade 2000s and 1990s are also ranked as the warm decades on record. However, this period from 1970s to now is not exceptional within the past 300 years. By applying an 11‐year moving average to the reconstruction, three warm periods and three cold periods are evident. The warm and cold periods of the reconstructed mean temperature correspond well with other reconstructions. Power spectral and wavelet analysis demonstrated the existence of significant ∼70‐ and ∼100‐year cycles of variability. Furthermore, the reconstruction and North Atlantic Oscillation Index showed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.34, n = 136, p < 0.0001). Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Capsule function following anterior dislocation: Implications for diagnosis of shoulder instability
Authors: Rainis Carrie A. , Browe Daniel P. , McMahon Patrick J. , Debski Richard E.
Published: January 2013

During shoulder dislocation, the glenohumeral capsule undergoes non‐recoverable strain, leading to joint instability. Clinicians use physical exams to diagnose injury and direct repair procedures; however, they are subjective and do not provide quantitative information. Our objectives were to: (1) determine the relationship between capsule function following anterior dislocation and non‐recoverable strain; and (2) identify joint positions at which physical exams can be used to detect non‐recoverable strain in specific capsule regions. Physical exams were simulated at three joint positions including external rotation (ER) using robotic technology before and after anterior dislocation. The resulting joint kinematics, strain distribution in the capsule, and non‐recoverable strain were determined. Following dislocation, anterior translation increased by as much as 48% (0° ER: p = 0.03; 30° ER: p = 0.03; 60° ER: p < 0.01). Capsule sub‐regions with less non‐recoverable strain required more ER to detect differences in the strain ratios between the intact and injured joint. Strain ratio changes on the humeral side of the posterior axillary pouch (0.31 ± 0.32) were significant at all joint positions (0° ER: p = 0.03; 30° ER: p = 0.048; 60° ER: p = 0.04), whereas strain ratio differences on the humeral side of the anterior axillary pouch (0.18 ± 0.21) were significant only at 60° of ER (p = 0.03). Therefore, standardizing physical exams for joint position could help surgeons identify specific locations of non‐recoverable strain that may have been ignored. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 962–968, 2013
Biological characteristics of adult degenerative nucleus pulposus cells in a three‐dimensional microcarrier stirring culture system
Authors: Ning Bin , Liu Haifei , Gong Weiming , Jiang Jianhao , Hu Yougu , Yang Shang‐You
Published: January 2013

A major problem in reconstructing degenerative intervertebral discs is to obtain sufficient nucleus pulposus (NP) seeding cells with normal physiologic functions. The current study adopted a three‐dimensional microcarrier culture system for massive cell expansion and evaluated the biological characteristics and physiological functions of the propagated adult degenerative NP cells. Isolated adult NP cells were cultured in either microcarrier stirring culturing system or traditional monolayer cultivation. The growth characteristics, proliferation, extracellular matrix secretion, and apoptosis potential were examined to evaluate the different features of the two cultivation methods. Compared to the monolayer cultivation system, the adhesion time of NP cells in the three‐dimensional microcarrier culture system appeared longer with relatively transient stable growth period. MTT and 3H‐TdR assays suggested significantly elevated proliferation and higher thymidine incorporation rates in cells from microcarrier system compare to cells in the monolayer system at the exponential growth phase (p < 0.05). Western blot data complimented the immunostaining results that the NP cells in the microcarrier system expressed significantly more protein levels of both type collagens at the exponential growth phase than that in the monolayer system (p < 0.05). Further, significantly more 35S labeled proteoglycan incorporation was noticed in the cells on the microcarriers at both the stable growth and the exponential growth phases (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01). In conclusion, the three‐dimensional microcarrier stirring culture system provides a means of fast and massive propagation of NP seeding cells which maintain their normal physiological characteristics and functions. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 858–863, 2013
Outcomes among patients treated for gastric adenocarcinoma during the last decade
Authors: Bringeland E.A. , Wasmuth H.H. , Johnsen G. , Johnsen T.B. , Juel I.S. , Mjønes P. , Uggen P.E. , Ystgaard B. , Grønbech J.E.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To evaluate the outcomes among patients treated for gastric adenocarcinoma in a referral hospital, and to identify possible trends during the last decade.

Methods

All patients evaluated for gastric adenocarcinoma during the period 1999–2009 were included.

Results

Of 397 patients, 52% were curatively resected. Crude 5‐year survival for the first 6 years period was 38.7% (CI 29.5–47.9), for the last 5 years, 49.2% (CI 38.8–59.6). Time period (P = 0.013), age (P < 0.001) and disease stage (P < 0.001), were significant predictors of long‐term survival rates. Among curatively resected, in‐hospital mortality was reduced from 8.5% in the first period to 2.0% in the last one (P = 0.037). There was a significant increase in the use of primary stents from the first to the last period (P = 0.006), paralleled by a significant reduction in the number of explorative laparotomies or bypass procedures (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

During the last decade, long‐term survival rates improved among patients curatively resected for gastric adenocarcinoma, and in‐hospital mortality was substantially reduced. For patients in a non‐curative situation, there was a significant shift from explorative laparotomies or bypass procedures to primary use of stents. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:752–757. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nutrition intervention to decrease symptoms in patients with advanced heart failure
Authors: Lennie Terry A. , Moser Debra. K. , Biddle Martha J. , Welsh Darlene , Bruckner Geza G. , Thomas D. Travis , Rayens Mary Kay , Bailey Alison L.
Published: January 2013

For a majority of patients with advanced heart failure, there is a need for complementary, non‐pharmacologic interventions that could be easily implemented by health care providers to provide palliative care. Three major pathologic pathways underlying heart failure symptoms have been identified: fluid overload, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Prior research has demonstrated that three nutrients‐sodium, omega‐3 fatty acids, and lycopene‐can alter these pathologic pathways. Therefore, the purposes of this study are to test the effects of a 6‐month nutrition intervention of dietary sodium reduction combined with supplementation of lycopene and omega‐3 fatty acids on heart failure symptoms, health‐related quality of life, and time to heart failure rehospitalization or all‐cause death. The aims of this double blind‐placebo controlled study are (1) to determine the effects of a 6‐month nutrition intervention on symptom burden (edema, shortness of air, and fatigue) and health‐related quality of life at 3 and 6 months, and time to heart failure rehospitalization or all‐cause death over 12 months from baseline; (2) compare dietary sodium intake, inflammation, and markers of oxidative stress between the nutrition intervention group and a placebo group at 3 and 6 months; and (3) compare body weight, serum lycopene, and erythrocyte omega‐3 index between the nutrition intervention group and a placebo group at 3 and 6 months. A total of 175 patients with advanced heart failure will be randomized to either the nutrition intervention or placebo group. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 36:120–145, 2013
The influence of social‐developmental context and nurse visitation intervention on self‐agency change in unmarried adolescent mothers
Authors: DeSocio Janiece E. , Holland Margaret L. , Kitzman Harriet J. , Cole Robert E.
Published: January 2013

Pregnancy among unmarried adolescents has been linked to negative personal control beliefs. In contrast, self‐agency beliefs about control over future possibilities have been linked to delay in subsequent childbearing. In this secondary analysis, we examined factors associated with self‐agency change in 429 unmarried adolescent mothers from intervention and control groups of a nurse home visitation study. Adolescent mothers who participated in a sustained relationship with a nurse made greater gains in self‐agency than did control group mothers (p = .034). Adolescents with lower cognitive ability who were behind their age‐appropriate grade level in school made the greatest self‐agency gains. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 36:158–170, 2013
Hospital‐based home care for children with cancer: Feasibility and psychosocial impact on children and their families
Authors: Hansson Helena , Kjærgaard Hanne , Johansen Christoffer , Hallström Inger , Christensen Jane , Madsen Marianne , Schmiegelow Kjeld
Published: January 2013

Background

To assess the feasibility and psychosocial impact of a hospital‐based home care (HBHC) program for children with cancer.

Procedure

A HBHC program was carried out with 51 children (0–18 years) with cancer to assess its feasibility in terms of satisfaction, care preferences, safety, and cost. A controlled trial was conducted to assess children's health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) using the parent‐reported and self‐reported PedsQL Generic Core Scale and PedsQL Cancer Module, and the psychosocial impact on the family by PedsQL Family Impact Module comprising a subsample of 28 children and 43 parents in the home care group, and 47 children and 66 parents receiving standard hospital care.

Results

All parents in the HBHC program were satisfied and preferred home care. There were no serious adverse events associated with HBHC, and costs did not increase. When adjusting for age, gender, diagnosis and time since diagnosis, we found significant higher HRQOL scores in parent‐reported physical health (P = 0.04; 95% confidence interval (CI): −0.2–19.5) and worry (P = 0.04; 95% CI: −0.4–20.6) in the home‐care group indicating better physical health and less worry for children in the home‐care group. No significant difference was found in the Family Impact Module.

Conclusion

This study indicates that HBHC is a feasible alternative to hospital care for children with cancer, and is greatly preferred by parents. Specific aspects of children's HRQOL may be improved with HBHC and the psychosocial burden on the family does not increase. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013; 60: 865–872. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High‐grade prostate cancer and biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy among men using 5α‐reductase inhibitors and alpha‐blockers
Authors: Murtola Teemu J. , Kujala Paula M. , Tammela Teuvo L.J.
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND

Two clinical trials have shown that users of 5α‐reductase inhibitors finasteride and dutasteride (5‐ARIs) have reduced overall prostate cancer risk, while the proportion of high‐grade tumors is increased. We studied tumor characteristics, risk of biochemical recurrence and mortality after radical prostatectomy in 5‐ARI and alpha‐blocker users.

METHODS

The study cohort consisted of 1,315 men who underwent radical prostatectomy at the Tampere University Hospital during 1995–2009. Biochemical relapse was defined as serum PSA ≥ 0.2 ng/ml after the operation. Information on mortality and medication purchases was obtained from national registries. Cox proportional regression was used to analyze hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) of biochemical relapse and death.

RESULTS

The proportion of high‐grade (Gleason 7–10) tumors was significantly elevated among men who had used 5‐ARIs for 4 years or longer compared to the non‐users (83.3% vs. 53.3%, respectively). Survival curves for biochemical relapse‐free survival differed between long‐term and short‐term 5‐ARI users, but the hazard ratio remained statistically non‐significant. Risk of biochemical recurrence was elevated among alpha‐blocker users (HR 1.68, 95% CI 1.37–2.06), but in sensitivity analyses this was evident only in men using alpha‐blockers after prostatectomy. Mortality was not associated with medication usage.

CONCLUSIONS

Long‐term users of finasteride or dutasteride had more often high‐grade prostate cancer. Our results suggest also worse progression‐free survival. The association between risk of biochemical recurrence and post‐operative alpha‐blocker usage suggests that voiding or storage symptoms after prostatectomy may predict biochemical relapse. Prostate 73: 923–931, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of CXCL1 overexpression on growth and invasion of prostate cancer cell
Authors: Benelli Roberto , Stigliani Sara , Minghelli Simona , Carlone Sebastiano , Ferrari Nicoletta
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND

The role of CXCL1 in prostate cancer (PCa) progression has been poorly investigated. A limitation of previous studies is linked to the use of human PCa cell lines PC3 and DU145, producing CXCL8 at levels strongly exceeding CXCL1 levels. Moreover, in mouse models the sharing of CXCR2 receptor by both ligands makes the phenotype induced by CXCL8 and CXCL1 almost indistinguishable. To overcome this problem we used the murine TRAMP‐C2 cell line, not expressing CXCL8 and expressing CXCL1 at low levels.

METHODS

The effect of CXCL1 overexpression was examined by in vivo subcutaneous tumor studies and in vitro functional assays of invasion and adhesion. Biochemical modifications were evaluated by Western blotting and antibody arrays.

RESULTS

Our data show that the overexpression of CXCL1 in TRAMP‐C2 cells represses tumor establishment and in situ invasion. In vitro, the main action of CXCL1 expression in TRAMP cells is associated with the perturbation of molecules linked to cell adhesion and migration thus explaining in vivo data. Other in vitro findings also suggest that signaling by CXCL1 might activate a secretory network limiting in vivo tumor growth by reinforcing senescence. Immunohistochemical staining of human PCa, BPH, and normal prostate biopsies strengthen our observations on the mouse model: when expressed, CXCL1 is limited to small areas with faint staining and PCa progression does not rely on CXCL1 expression.

CONCLUSION:

We could speculate that CXCL1 overexpression acts as a suppressor of malignancy limiting the escape of tumor cells from the primary tumor and reinforcing growth arrest. Prostate 73: 941–951, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel canine model for prostate cancer
Authors: Keller Jill M. , Schade George R. , Ives Kimberly , Cheng Xu , Rosol Thomas J. , Piert Morand , Siddiqui Javed , Roberts William W. , Keller Evan T.
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND

No existing animal model fully recapitulates all features of human prostate cancer. The dog is the only large mammal, besides humans, that commonly develops spontaneous prostate cancer. Canine prostate cancer features many similarities with its human counterpart. We sought to develop a canine model of prostate cancer that would more fully represent the features of human prostate cancer than existing models.

METHODS

The Ace‐1 canine prostate cancer cell line was injected transabdominally under transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) guidance into the prostates of immunosuppressed, intact, adult male dogs. Tumor progression was monitored by TRUS imaging. Some dogs were subjected to positron emission tomography (PET) for tumor detection. Time of euthanasia was determined based on tumor size, impingement on urethra, and general well‐being. Euthanasia was followed by necropsy and histopathology.

RESULTS

Ace‐1 tumor cells grew robustly in every dog injected. Tumors grew in subcapsular and parenchymal regions of the prostate. Tumor tissue could be identified using PET. Histological findings were similar to those observed in human prostate cancer. Metastases to lungs and lymph nodes were detected, predominantly in dogs with intraprostatic tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

We have established a minimally invasive dog model of prostate cancer. This model may be valuable for studying prostate cancer progression and distant metastasis. Prostate 73: 952–959, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Consumption of deep‐fried foods and risk of prostate cancer
Authors: Stott‐Miller Marni , Neuhouser Marian L. , Stanford Janet L.
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that high‐heat cooking methods may increase the risk of prostate cancer (PCa). The addition of oil/fat, as in deep‐frying, may be of particular concern, and has not specifically been investigated in relation to PCa. Potential mechanisms include the formation of potentially carcinogenic agents such as aldehydes, acrolein, heterocyclic amines, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and acrylamide.

METHODS

We estimated odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between tertiles of intake of deep‐fried foods from a food frequency questionnaire (French fries, fried chicken, fried fish, doughnuts and snack chips) and PCa risk, adjusted for potential confounders, among 1,549 cases and 1,492 controls. We additionally examined associations with more aggressive PCa (defined as regional/distant stage, elevated Gleason score or prostate‐specific antigen level).

RESULTS

Compared with <1/week, there was a positive association with PCa risk for intake ≥1/week of French fries (OR = 1.37; 95% CI, 1.11–1.69), fried chicken (OR = 1.30; 95% CI, 1.04–1.62), fried fish (OR = 1.32; 95% CI, 1.05–1.66), and doughnuts (OR = 1.35; 95% CI, 1.11–1.66). There was no association for snack chips (OR = 1.08; 95% CI, 0.89–1.32). Most of the estimates were slightly stronger for more aggressive disease (OR = 1.41; 95% CI, 1.04–1.92 for fried fish).

CONCLUSION

Regular consumption of select deep‐fried foods is associated with increased PCa risk. Whether this risk is specific to deep‐fried foods, or whether it represents risk associated with regular intake of foods exposed to high heat and/or other aspects of the Western lifestyle, such as fast food consumption, remains to be determined. Prostate 73: 960–969, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Departures from convective equilibrium with a rapidly varying surface forcing
Authors: Davies L. , Plant R. S. , Derbyshire S. H.
Published: January 2013

Convective equilibrium is a long‐standing and useful concept for understanding many aspects of the behaviour of deep moist convection. For example, it is often invoked in developing parametrizations for large‐scale models. However, the equilibrium assumption may begin to break down as models are increasingly used with shorter time steps and finer resolutions. Here we perform idealized cloud‐system resolving model simulations of deep convection with imposed time variations in the surface forcing. A range of rapid forcing time‐scales from 1 to 36 h are used, in order to induce systematic departures from equilibrium. For the longer forcing time‐scales, the equilibrium assumption remains valid, in at least the limited sense that cycle‐integrated measures of convective activity are very similar from cycle to cycle. For shorter forcing time‐scales, cycle‐integrated convection becomes more variable, with enhanced activity on one cycle being correlated with reduced activity on the next, suggesting a role for convective memory. Further investigation shows that the memory does not appear to be carried by the domain‐mean thermodynamic fields but rather by structures on horizontal scales of 5–20 km. Such structures are produced by the convective clouds and can persist beyond the lifetime of the cloud, even through to the next forcing cycle.
A real‐time automated convective and stratiform precipitation segregation algorithm in native radar coordinates
Authors: Qi Youcun , Zhang Jian , Zhang Pengfei
Published: January 2013

A new convective/stratiform (C/S) precipitation segregation algorithm was developed for applications with single radar volume scan data and in its native (spherical) coordinates. The new algorithm consists of two parts: the first is to find convective rainfall cores based on physical characteristics of different rainfall types, and the second is to delineate the full convective area through seeded region growing. The new scheme takes into account radar sampling characteristics and a variety of precipitation scenarios where the C/S delineation was relatively challenging. The new C/S delineation scheme has two impacts on radar quantitative precipitation estimation (QPE): (i) correctly separate convective and stratiform regions such that appropriate Ze–R relationships can be applied; (ii) correctly define the stratiform area such that a vertical profile of reflectivity (VPR) correction can be applied. The VPR correction is very important to reduce overestimation errors in radar QPEs associated with bright band. The new algorithm was tested on many events and showed improved performance over previous schemes, especially when handling strong bright band and melting graupels in stratiform precipitation. The new scheme was also tested in radar quantitative precipitation estimation (QPE) and it consistently reduced the root mean square error and mean absolute bias in the radar QPE when compared with gauges.
Carotid arterial intima–media thickness and arterial stiffness in pre‐eclampsia: analysis with a radiofrequency ultrasound technique
Authors: Yuan L.‐J. , Xue D. , Duan Y.‐Y. , Cao T.‐S. , Yang H.‐G. , Zhou N.
Published: January 2013

Objective

Whether arterial elasticity is reduced in pre‐eclampsia has been investigated only rarely. This study aimed to characterize in vivo the carotid arterial intima–media thickness (IMT) and mechanical properties in women with pre‐eclampsia by employing a radiofrequency ultrasound technique.

Methods

We included 22 late‐onset pre‐eclamptic pregnant women and 28 normotensive pregnant women who were matched for age (29 ± 6 vs 27 ± 3, P = 0.09) and gestational age (36.0 ± 3.2 vs 35.8 ± 2.4 weeks, P = 0.802). All women were nulliparous with singleton pregnancy. The pre‐eclamptic women had a significantly higher arterial pressure than did the normotensive women (P < 0.0001). All women underwent right common carotid arterial measurements with an ultrasound machine equipped with automatic Quality IMT (QIMT) and Quality Arterial Stiffness (QAS) capability. At follow‐up examination 18 months after parturition, measurements were repeated in 10 of the pre‐eclamptic women and 11 of the normotensive women.

Results

In pre‐eclamptic compared with normotensive pregnancy, carotid arterial IMT (459 ± 95 vs 351 ± 85 µm, P = 0.0001), internal diameter (7.8 ± 0.5 vs 7.2 ± 0.4 mm, P < 0.0001), pulse wave velocity (7.1 ± 1.7 vs 6.0 ± 1.5 m/s, P = 0.007), augmentation index (7.9 ± 9.2 vs −5.0 ± 5.6%, P < 0.0001) and arterial wall tension (55.0 ± 6.5vs 38.6 ± 4.9 mmHg/cm, P < 0.0001) were significantly greater, and the distensibility coefficient (0.020 ± 0.009 vs 0.029 ± 0.011 1/kPa, P = 0.006) was significantly smaller, remaining so after adjusting for body mass index and carotid arterial pressure. Eighteen months after parturition, carotid arterial internal diameter, pressure and wall tension remained greater in the pre‐eclamptic group.

Conclusion

Carotid arterial remodeling, including changes in arterial internal diameter and wall thickness, and arterial stiffening occur in pre‐eclampsia but this may reverse, to some extent, postpartum. QIMT and QAS techniques together could provide a comprehensive assessment of carotid arterial remodeling. Copyright © 2013 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Bridge over troubled waters: understanding the synthetic and biological identities of engineered nanomaterials
Authors: Fadeel Bengt , Feliu Neus , Vogt Carmen , Abdelmonem Abuelmagd M. , Parak Wolfgang J.
Published: January 2013

Engineered nanomaterials offer exciting opportunities for ‘smart’ drug delivery and in vivo imaging of disease processes, as well as in regenerative medicine. The ability to manipulate matter at the nanoscale enables many new properties that are both desirable and exploitable, but the same properties could also give rise to unexpected toxicities that may adversely affect human health. Understanding the physicochemical properties that drive toxicological outcomes is a formidable challenge as it is not trivial to separate and, hence, to pinpoint individual material characteristics of nanomaterials. In addition, nanomaterials that interact with biological systems are likely to acquire a surface corona of biomolecules that may dictate their biological behavior. Indeed, we propose that it is the combination of material‐intrinsic properties (the ‘synthetic identity’) and context‐dependent properties determined, in part, by the bio‐corona of a given biological compartment (the ‘biological identity’) that will determine the interactions of engineered nanomaterials with cells and tissues and subsequent outcomes. The delineation of these entwined ‘identities’ of engineered nanomaterials constitutes the bridge between nanotoxicological research and nanomedicine. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2013, 5:111–129. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1206

This article is categorized under:

Toxicology and Regulatory Issues in Nanomedicine > Toxicology of Nanomaterials
Clinical developments of chemotherapeutic nanomedicines: polymers and liposomes for delivery of camptothecins and platinum (II) drugs
Authors: Kieler‐Ferguson Heidi M. , Fréchet Jean M. J. , Szoka Jr Francis C.
Published: January 2013

For the past 40 years, liposomal and polymeric delivery vehicles have been studied as systems capable of modulating the cytotoxicity of small molecule chemotherapeutics, increasing tumor bearing animal survival times, and improving drug targeting. Although a number of macromolecular‐drug conjugates have progressed to clinical trials, tuning drug release to maintain efficacy in conjunction with controlling drug toxicity has prevented the clinical adoption of many vehicles. In this article, we review the motivations for and approaches to polymer and liposomal delivery with regard to camptothecin and cisplatin delivery. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2013, 5:130–138. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1209

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease
Recent advances in prostate development and links to prostatic diseases
Authors: Powers Ginny L. , Marker Paul C.
Published: January 2013

The prostate is a branched ductal‐acinar gland that is part of the male reproductive tract. Prostate development depends upon the integration of steroid hormone signals, paracrine interactions between the stromal and epithelial tissue layers, and the actions of cell autonomous factors. Several genes and signaling pathways are known to be required for one or more steps of prostate development including epithelial budding, duct elongation, branching morphogenesis, and/or cellular differentiation. Recent progress in the field of prostate development has included the application of genome‐wide technologies including serial analysis of gene expression, expression profiling microarrays, and other large‐scale approaches to identify new genes and pathways that are essential for prostate development. The aggregation of experimental results into online databases by organized multilab projects including the Genitourinary Developmental Molecular Atlas Project has also accelerated the understanding of molecular pathways that function during prostate development and identified links between prostate anatomy and molecular signaling. Rapid progress has also recently been made in understanding the nature and role of candidate stem cells in the developing and adult prostate. This has included the identification of putative prostate stem cell markers, lineage tracing, and organ reconstitution studies. However, several issues regarding their origin, precise nature, and possible role(s) in disease remain unresolved. Nevertheless, several links between prostatic developmental mechanisms and the pathogenesis of prostatic diseases including benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer have led to recent progress on targeting developmental pathways as therapeutic strategies for these diseases. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2013, 5:243–256. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1208

This article is categorized under:

Developmental Biology > Developmental Processes in Health and Disease
Contribution of the two domains of E. coli 5′‐nucleotidase to substrate specificity and catalysis
Authors: Krug Ulrike , Patzschke Rica , Zebisch Matthias , Balbach Jochen , Sträter Norbert
Published: January 2013

Escherichia coli 5′‐nucleotidase, a two‐domain enzyme, dephosphorylates various nucleotides with comparable efficiency. We have expressed the two domains individually in E. coli and show by liquid state NMR that they are properly folded. Kinetic characterization reveals that the C‐terminal domain, which contains the substrate‐binding pocket, is completely inactive while the N‐terminal domain with the two‐metal‐ion‐center and the core catalytic residues exhibits significant activity, especially towards substrates with activated phosphate bonds (ATP, ADP, p‐nitrophenyl phosphate). In contrast, residues of the C‐terminal domain are required for efficient hydrolysis of AMP.
The Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (FINGER): Study design and progress
Authors: Kivipelto Miia , Solomon Alina , Ahtiluoto Satu , Ngandu Tiia , Lehtisalo Jenni , Antikainen Riitta , Bäckman Lars , Hänninen Tuomo , Jula Antti , Laatikainen Tiina , Lindström Jaana , Mangialasche Francesca , Nissinen Aulikki , Paajanen Teemu , Pajala Satu , Peltonen Markku , Rauramaa Rainer , Stigsdotter‐Neely Anna , Strandberg Timo , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Soininen Hilkka
Published: January 2013

Background

Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (FINGER) is a multi‐center, randomized, controlled trial ongoing in Finland.

Materials

Participants (1200 individuals at risk of cognitive decline) are recruited from previous population‐based non‐intervention studies. Inclusion criteria are CAIDE Dementia Risk Score ≥6 and cognitive performance at the mean level or slightly lower than expected for age (but not substantial impairment) assessed with the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD) neuropsychological battery. The 2‐year multidomain intervention consists of: nutritional guidance; exercise; cognitive training and social activity; and management of metabolic and vascular risk factors. Persons in the control group receive regular health advice. The primary outcome is cognitive performance as measured by the modified Neuropsychological Test Battery, Stroop test, and Trail Making Test. Main secondary outcomes are: dementia (after extended follow‐up); disability; depressive symptoms; vascular risk factors and outcomes; quality of life; utilization of health resources; and neuroimaging measures.

Results

Screening began in September 2009 and was completed in December 2011. All 1200 persons are enrolled and the intervention is ongoing as planned. Baseline clinical characteristics indicate that several vascular risk factors and unhealthy lifestyle–related factors are present, creating a window of opportunity for prevention. The intervention will be completed during 2014.

Conclusions

The FINGER is at the forefront of international collaborative efforts to solve the clinical and public health problems of early identification of individuals at increased risk of late‐life cognitive impairment, and of developing intervention strategies to prevent or delay the onset of cognitive impairment and dementia.
Relating badly to brands
Authors: Fournier Susan , Alvarez Claudio
Published: January 2013

Our commentary focuses on the negative pole of Park et al.'s Attachment–Aversion continuum. We argue that the distinction between positively‐ and negatively‐valenced relationships matters, and open opportunities to further our knowledge about what makes a brand relationship “bad.” Two theoretical extensions are offered: (1) additional negativity dimensions beyond brand–self distance including pathology, power, and self‐ versus brand‐focused emotionality; and (2) distinctions between neutrality and variations of emotional ambivalence “in the middle” of the Attachment–Aversion spectrum. Our call is for a science of negative relationships concerning the negative outcomes, processes, states, and attributes of consumers' relationships with brands.
Healthcare Consumers' Need for Brain-injury Services: The Critical Importance of Timing in Planning Future Services
Authors: O'Callaghan Anna , McAllister Lindy , Wilson Linda
Published: January 2013

Developing an awareness of the preferences of healthcare consumers is essential in determining the ‘reality’ of service provision, in planning the provision of brain-injury services and in service evaluation. Consumers should be given the opportunity to express satisfaction or dissatisfaction with the services they receive, offering their perceptions of barriers to service access, which could be removed once known. This article presents narratives of the healthcare journeys of three adults with a moderate to severe brain injury. The experiences of these participants were elicited through in-depth interviews. The aim of this article is to convey how the needs and experiences of adults with brain injury change throughout time, affecting their ability to access care over time. Previous research by the authors of this paper identified five factors that affect consumers’ experiences of care: acceptance and readiness, support, advocacy, the right service at the right time and mismatched expectations. The fluidity and interaction of these factors through time is demonstrated in this article as facilitating and impeding access to services. The implications for clinicians in considering these factors when planning services for adults with moderate to severe brain injuries are explored.
Comparing Performance of Young Adults on a Computer-based Version of the Austin Maze and the Conventional Form of the Test
Authors: McKay Adam , Lee Shuzi , Stolwyk Rene , Ponsford Jennie
Published: January 2013

The Austin Maze has declined in use in both clinical and research contexts due to difficulties in accessing the conventional button-box form of the test. Computer-based versions of the Austin Maze offer a potential means of making the test more accessible, but as yet there is limited evidence regarding the equivalence of computer and conventional versions of the Austin Maze. The present study compared performance on a computer version of the Austin Maze by Bray and McDonald with performance on the traditional button maze in 63 participants aged 18–27 years. The results showed no differences between the computer and conventional versions in terms of mean scores and distributions, and performances on the two versions were significantly correlated. Examination of correlates found no relationship between Austin Maze performance and years of education or age for either version of the Austin Maze performance. Intellectual function was modestly associated with performance on the conventional version but not the computer version. Overall, these findings suggest that scores on the Bray and McDonald computer version of the Austin Maze produces comparable scores to the conventional form of the test and can be interpreted using existing normative data.
Pitfalls of Psychogenic Non-epileptic Status Epilepticus
Authors: Karatas Hulya , Tezer F. Irsel , Dericioglu Nese , Saygi Serap
Published: January 2013

Objectives and Background: In patients with medically refractory seizures 20–30% do not have epilepsy, and the majority are diagnosed with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES). Almost one-third of this group has a prolonged episode that is termed as PNES status epilepticus (PNES-SE). The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of patients with (1) PNES-SE only and (2) PNES-SE with concurrent epileptic seizures.

Methods: We screened retrospectively all patients who underwent video-electroencephalogram (video-EEG) long-term monitoring at our institution between 1996 and 2009. Patients with PNES were identified by typical clinical features with no ictal EEG changes. Patients with continuous episodes for at least 30 min that led to intubation were identified as PNES-SE. They were divided into two groups: group 1, pure PNES-SE and group 2, PNES-SE with concurrent epilepsy. Group characteristics were defined with respect to demographic, clinical, electroencephalographic, neuroimaging and psychiatric variables.

Results: PNES were recorded in 88/916 patients (10%) of whom 6 (7%) were treated intensively due to misdiagnosis of status epilepticus (SE), with two having coexistent epileptic seizures. All patients had concurrent psychiatric disorder(s), diagnosed by a psychiatrist. Duration of time until correct diagnosis was lengthy in all cases, and particularly for patients with PNES-SE with coexisting epileptic seizures (more than 10 years).

Conclusion: To avoid iatrogenic complications and to treat the underlying psychiatric conditions, early diagnosis of PNES is necessary. Understanding the clinical characteristics of PNES-SE leads to early diagnoses, which may avoid iatrogenesis and economic burden.
A study of a pilot-scale biogas bio-filter system for utilization on pig farms
Authors: SU J.-J. , CHEN Y.-J. , CHANG Y.-C.
Published: January 2013

Combustion of biogas containing hydrogen sulphide (H2S) yields highly corrosive sulphur oxides, thereby limiting the use of biogas for heat and power generation. The current study developed and tested a pilot-scale biogas bio-filter system (BBS) to replace conventional water scrubbing systems at a commercial pig farm in Miaoli County, Taiwan. A 62·8-litre pilot-scale BBS, packed with dried aerial roots from the common tree fern (Sphaeropteris lepifera) and a mixture of dried aerial roots and plastic rings as bio-carriers and inoculated with sulphur oxidizing bacteria, was installed at a commercial pig farm. H2S concentration was 5600 mg/m3 and the biogas flow rate was 4 litres/min. The pilot-scale BBS could remove 26·9 g H2S/m3/h using a bio-filter that operated at a 7% (v/v) O2 level continuously for >200 days. It was found that most H2S was oxidized to elemental sulphur (S0) and accumulated on the surface of the dried aerial roots (0·084 g S0/g aerial root) in the BBS. The dried aerial roots and plastic Raschig ring mixture was more efficent at sulphur dioxide removal than the dried aerial roots on their own. The pH and sulphate (SO42−) concentrations of water dropping from the BBS were 1·6 ± 1·0 and 28 680 ± 8253 mg/l, respectively. However, sulphur is the dominant product of sulphur oxidizers at the 7% O2 level. Periodical flushing of the bio-filter with the effluent from the wastewater treatment system on the farm can maintain high efficiency of H2S removal.