bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CONTRIBUTION OF THE INTERPHASE INTERACTION TO THE DIELECTRIC PERMITTIVITY OF COLLOID SYSTEMS
Authors: BORISOV V. S.
Published: May 2011

Specific features of the dielectric response of colloid systems with electrically interacting components (polar liquid matrix and solid spherical inclusions) have been revealed. A theory was developed to describe dielectric dispersion and anisotropy of the liquid phase caused by the electric field of surface charges on the solid particles. It was found that the local dielectric permittivity in different directions can vary over a wide range and strongly depends on the strength of the inner field. The existence of the interphase interaction leads to the formation of thin structured liquid layers in the contact area of two phases and, therefore, to a decrease in the average dielectric permittivity of the considered system. Nonuniform structure of the polar liquid was taken into account while the derivation of a mixing formula which clearly demonstrates the contribution of the interphase interaction to the dielectric response of the investigated colloid system.
Proton-Pumping Mechanism of Cytochrome c Oxidase
Authors: Yoshikawa Shinya , Muramoto Kazumasa , Shinzawa-Itoh Kyoko
Published: May 2011

Cytochrome c oxidase (CcO), as the terminal oxidase of cellular respiration, coupled with a proton-pumping process, reduces molecular oxygen (O2) to water. This intriguing and highly organized chemical process represents one of the most critical aspects of cellular respiration. It employs transition metals (Fe and Cu) at the O2 reduction site and has been considered one of the most challenging research subjects in life science. Extensive X-ray structural and mutational analyses have provided two different proposals with regard to the mechanism of proton pumping. One mechanism is based on bovine CcO and includes an independent pathway for the pumped protons. The second mechanistic proposal includes a common pathway for the pumped and chemical protons and is based upon bacterial CcO. Here, recent progress in experimental evaluations of these proposals is reviewed and strategies for improving our understanding of the mechanism of this physiologically important process are discussed.
Investigation of the Solid Electrolyte Interphase Formed by Fluoroethylene Carbonate on Si Electrodes
Authors: Nakai Hideki , Kubota Tadahiko , Kita Akinori , Kawashima Atsumichi
Published: May 2011

The solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formed by a fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC)-based electrolyte on a Si electrode was investigated using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and time of flight–secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). The FEC-derived SEI consists of lithium fluoride and a polyene-compound, which are originated from free fluoride and the acetylene unit due to the preferential reaction of FEC, and is very thin. Oxidation of the Si electrode of the EC-based cell was confirmed, although it did not proceed to a significant extent. The FEC-derived SEI protects against not only the decomposition of the FEC-based electrolyte, but also oxidation of the Si electrode. The FEC-derived SEI acts as a passivation film for the Si electrode, which results in the improvement of the cycling performance.
Dual functional significance of calcineurin homologous protein 1 binding to Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 1
Authors: Matsushita Masafumi , Tanaka Hiroo , Mitsui Keiji , Kanazawa Hiroshi
Published: May 2011

Calcineurin homologous protein 1 (CHP1) binds to the hydrophilic tail of the Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 1 (NHE1). Previous gene knockout of CHP1 revealed that the loss of CHP1 caused a decrease in the total amount of NHE1, suggesting the destabilization of NHE1 molecules without CHP1 (Matsushita et al., Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 293: C246–C254, 2007). However, Pang et al. ( J Biol Chem 276: 17367–17372, 2001) reported that NHE1 without a CHP1 binding site was found in the plasma membrane, suggesting no requirement of CHP1 binding for plasma membrane localization of NHE1. Here, the functional significance of CHP1 binding to NHE1 was examined to resolve these contradictory results. In CV1 cells, which overexpressed wild-type NHE1, overexpression of CHP1 caused an increase in both the total amount of NHE1 and the colocalization of NHE1 and CHP1 at the plasma membrane. This provided new visual evidence of the localization of NHE1 from endoplasmic reticulum to the plasma membrane upon CHP1 binding. An immunoprecipitation assay showed that the expression of CHP1 reduced the ubiquitination of NHE1 and/or its associated proteins. Mutant NHE1s without CHP1 binding site exhibited a modest localization to the plasma membrane. After reaching the plasma membrane, these mutant NHE1s exhibited shorter half-lives than the wild-type NHE1 with CHP1. The results suggest a dual functional significance of CHP1 and its binding region: 1) binding of CHP1 stabilizes NHE1 and increases its plasma membrane localization by masking a NHE1 disposal signal, and 2) CHP1 binding is required for the antiporter activity.
NP603, a novel and potent inhibitor of FGFR1 tyrosine kinase, inhibits hepatic stellate cell proliferation and ameliorates hepatic fibrosis in rats
Authors: Lin Nan , Chen Si , Pan Weidong , Xu Linan , Hu Kunpeng , Xu Ruiyun
Published: May 2011

Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) and its main receptor FGFR1 have been shown to promote hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and proliferation. However, scant information is available on the anti-fibrogenic activity of FGFR1 inhibitors. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a selective FGFR1 tyrosine kinase inhibitor NP603 on HSC proliferation and hepatic fibrosis. We demonstrated that rat primary HSCs secreted significant amounts of FGF-2, and its tyrosine phosphorylation of FGFR1 was attenuated by NP603. NP603 inhibited HSC activaton by measuring the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and the production of type I collagen using ELISA. Furthermore, NP603 (25 μM) in vitro strongly suppressed HSC growth induced by FGF-2 (10 ng/ml) and FCS. This effect correlated with the suppression of extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK) activity and its downstream targets cyclin D1 and p21. In addition, PO NP603 (20 mg·kg−1·day−1) administration significantly decreased hepatic collagen deposition and α-SMA expression in CCl4-treated rats. Collectively, these studies suggest that selective blocking of the FGFR1-mediated pathway could be a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis.
Relationship between surface area of nonperfused myocardium and extravascular extraction of contrast agent following coronary microembolization
Authors: Malyar Nasser M. , Lerman Lilach O. , Gössl Mario , Beighley Patricia E. , Ritman Erik L.
Published: May 2011

Myocardial microvascular permeability and coronary sinus concentration of muscle metabolites have been shown to increase after myocardial ischemia due to epicardial coronary artery occlusion and reperfusion. However, their association with coronary microembolization is not well defined. This study tested the hypothesis that acute coronary microembolization increases microvascular permeability in the porcine heart. The left anterior descending perfusion territories of 34 anesthetized pigs (32 ± 3 kg) were embolized with equal volumes of microspheres of one of three diameters (10, 30, or 100 μm) and at three different doses for each size. Electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) was used to assess in vivo, microvascular extraction of a nonionic contrast agent (an index of microvascular permeability) before and after microembolization with microspheres at baseline and during adenosine infusion. A high-resolution three-dimensional microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) scanner was subsequently used to obtain ex vivo, the volume and corresponding surface area of the embolized myocardial islands within the perfusion territories of the microembolized coronary artery. EBCT-derived microvascular extraction of contrast agent increased within minutes after coronary microembolization ( P < 0.001 vs. baseline and vs. control values). The increase in coronary microvascular permeability was highly correlated to the micro-CT-derived total surface area of the nonperfused myocardium ( r = 0.83, P < 0.001). In conclusion, myocardial extravascular accumulation of contrast agent is markedly increased after coronary microembolization and its magnitude is in proportion to the surface area of the interface between the nonperfused and perfused territories.
Disruption of COX-2 and eNOS does not confer protection from cardiovascular failure in lipopolysaccharide-treated conscious mice and isolated vascular rings
Authors: Stæhr Mette , Madsen Kirsten , Vanhoutte Paul M. , Hansen Pernille B. , Jensen Boye L.
Published: May 2011

It was hypothesized that a serial stimulation of vascular cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) with subsequent activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) is responsible for decrease in blood pressure, cardiac performance, and vascular reactivity in endotoxemia caused by LPS. The hypothesis was tested in catheterized, conscious, freely moving, wild-type mice and mice (C57BL/6J background) with targeted deletion of COX-2 and eNOS that were given an intravenous LPS bolus (2 mg/kg, 055:B5). In vitro studies were performed on murine aorta rings. LPS caused a concomitant decrease in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) that was significant after 3 h and was sustained throughout the experiment (8 h). The LPS-induced changes in MAP and HR were not different from control in COX-2−/− and eNOS−/− mice. A prostacyclin receptor antagonist (BR5064) blocked the hypotensive effect of a prostacyclin agonist (beraprost), but did not attenuate the LPS-induced decrease in MAP and HR. LPS decreased eNOS and neuronal NOS mRNA abundances in several organs, while inducible NOS mRNA was enhanced. In aortic rings, LPS suppressed α1-adrenoceptor-mediated vascular tone. Inhibition of COX-2 activity (NS 398), disruption of COX-2, endothelium removal, or eNOS deletion (eNOS−/−) did not improve vascular reactivity after LPS, while the NO synthase blockers 1400W and NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester prevented loss of tone. COX-2 and eNOS activities are not necessary for LPS-induced decreases in blood pressure, heart rate, and vascular reactivity. Inducible NOS activity appears crucial. COX-2 and eNOS are not obvious therapeutic targets for cardiovascular rescue during gram-negative endotoxemic shock.
Trial type probability modulates the cost of antisaccades
Authors: Chiau Hui-Yan , Tseng Philip , Su Jia-Han , Tzeng Ovid J. L. , Hung Daisy L. , Muggleton Neil G. , Juan Chi-Hung
Published: May 2011

The antisaccade task, where eye movements are made away from a target, has been used to investigate the flexibility of cognitive control of behavior. Antisaccades usually have longer saccade latencies than prosaccades, the so-called antisaccade cost. Recent studies have shown that this antisaccade cost can be modulated by event probability. This may mean that the antisaccade cost can be reduced, or even reversed, if the probability of surrounding events favors the execution of antisaccades. The probabilities of prosaccades and antisaccades were systematically manipulated by changing the proportion of a certain type of trial in an interleaved pro/antisaccades task. We aimed to disentangle the intertwined relationship between trial type probabilities and the antisaccade cost with the ultimate goal of elucidating how probabilities of trial types modulate human flexible behaviors, as well as the characteristics of such modulation effects. To this end, we examined whether implicit trial type probability can influence saccade latencies and also manipulated the difficulty of cue discriminability to see how effects of trial type probability would change when the demand on visual perceptual analysis was high or low. A mixed-effects model was applied to the analysis to dissect the factors contributing to the modulation effects of trial type probabilities. Our results suggest that the trial type probability is one robust determinant of antisaccade cost. These findings highlight the importance of implicit probability in the flexibility of cognitive control of behavior.
Anesthetic state modulates excitability but not spectral tuning or neural discrimination in single auditory midbrain neurons
Authors: Schumacher Joseph W. , Schneider David M. , Woolley Sarah M. N.
Published: May 2011

The majority of sensory physiology experiments have used anesthesia to facilitate the recording of neural activity. Current techniques allow researchers to study sensory function in the context of varying behavioral states. To reconcile results across multiple behavioral and anesthetic states, it is important to consider how and to what extent anesthesia plays a role in shaping neural response properties. The role of anesthesia has been the subject of much debate, but the extent to which sensory coding properties are altered by anesthesia has yet to be fully defined. In this study we asked how urethane, an anesthetic commonly used for avian and mammalian sensory physiology, affects the coding of complex communication vocalizations (songs) and simple artificial stimuli in the songbird auditory midbrain. We measured spontaneous and song-driven spike rates, spectrotemporal receptive fields, and neural discriminability from responses to songs in single auditory midbrain neurons. In the same neurons, we recorded responses to pure tone stimuli ranging in frequency and intensity. Finally, we assessed the effect of urethane on population-level representations of birdsong. Results showed that intrinsic neural excitability is significantly depressed by urethane but that spectral tuning, single neuron discriminability, and population representations of song do not differ significantly between unanesthetized and anesthetized animals.
A Case of Giant Bladder Carcinosarcoma without Submucosal Invasion
Authors: Zaitsu Masayoshi , Yamanoi Mariko , Mikami Koji , Tonooka Akiko , Uekusa Toshimasa , Takeuchi Takumi
Published: May 2011

Carcinosarcoma is a rare biphasic neoplasia containing both malignant mesenchymal and epithelial elements. Bladder carcinosarcoma commonly presented as high-grade, advanced stage, and aggressive behavior with a poor prognosis. An 83-year-old male presented with painless gross hematuria to our hospital. Cystoscopy revealed massive nonpapillary bladder tumor on the right wall. The 91 g tumor could be completely removed with transurethral resection. Histology of the tumor was diagnosed as carcinosarcoma with no submucosal invasion composed of biphasic malignant epithelial and mesenchymal cells. Epithelial malignancy was urothelial cancer and mesenchymal one was chondrosarcoma and leiomyosarcoma. The specimens taken at the second-look TUR-Bt revealed that carcinoma in situ (urothelial cancer) but not sarcoma existed at the mucosa surrounding the previous tumor site. 80 mg of BCG instillation intravesically every week for six weeks was successfully administered to the patient. There is no tumor recurrence for 6 months after treatments.
Digital Soil Mapping in the Absence of Field Training Data: A Case Study Using Terrain Attributes and Semiautomated Soil Signature Derivation to Distinguish Ecological Potential
Authors: Browning Dawn M. , Duniway Michael C.
Published: May 2011

Spatially explicit data for soil properties governing plant water availability are needed to understand mechanisms influencing plant species distributions and predict plant responses to changing climate. This is especially important for arid and semiarid regions. Spatial data representing surrogates for soil forming factors are becoming widely available (e.g., spectral and terrain layers). However, field-based training data remain a limiting factor, particularly across remote and extensive drylands. We present a method to map soils with Landsat ETM+ imagery and high-resolution (5 m) terrain (IFSAR) data based on statistical properties of the input data layers that do not rely on field training data. We then characterize soil classes mapped using this semiautomated technique. The method distinguished spectrally distinct soil classes that differed in subsurface rather than surface properties. Field evaluations of the soil classification in conjunction with analysis of long-term vegetation dynamics indicate the approach was successful in mapping areas with similar soil properties and ecological potential.
Management and Clinical Outcome of Penetrating Keratoplasty for Long-Term Corneal Changes in Sympathetic Ophthalmia
Authors: Ramamurthi Saraswathi , Obi Ebube E. , Dutton Gordon N. , Ramaesh Kanna
Published: May 2011

Purpose. To report the visual outcome of penetrating keratoplasty performed on the sympathizing eye in three cases of sympathetic ophthalmitis.Methods. Interventional case series of three patients, diagnosed with sympathetic ophthalmitis, with corneal changes in the form of band keratopathy and decompensation underwent penetrating keratoplasty to the sympathizing eye. They had each sustained penetrating trauma as a child and had undergone previous cataract surgery and superficial keratectomy. Two patients had undergone lamellar keratoplasty prior to this procedure. One patient had undergone trabeculectomy for glaucoma, and she was on antiglaucoma medication. The preoperative visual acuity was 1/60 in the affected eye of each patient. Penetrating keratoplasty was performed in the sympathizing eye and the donor graft size was 7.50 mm, and the host graft size was 7.25 mm. Our patients were immunosuppressed prior to the procedure to help prevent graft rejection.Result. At one year follow-up, a BCVA of 6/36 or better was achieved in all three patients. Postoperative examination of the fundus showed peripheral chorioretinal atrophy with pigmentary changes at the macula, accounting for the limited vision. The grafts remain clear to date, and there has been no recurrence of uveitis or rejection.Conclusion. Penetrating keratoplasty can be considered as a surgical option to restore useful vision in a stable sympathizing eye in sympathetic ophthalmitis, and this depends on the extent of the pathology. However, these cases require treatment with immunosuppressives to prevent graft rejection and to prolong graft survival.
Toxocariasis Presenting as Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Helsen Gregory , Vandecasteele Stefaan J. , Vanopdenbosch Ludo J.
Published: May 2011

We describe a farmer who presented with a clinical picture of a transverse thoracic myelitis. MRI showed inflammatory lesions in brain and thoracic spinal cord. Toxocariasis was suspected because of eosinophilia in blood and cerebrospinal fluid, and this diagnosis was confirmed immunologically. He was successfully treated with antihelminthics in combination with corticosteroids. Neurotoxocariasis is rare and diagnosis can be difficult because of the different and atypical clinical manifestations. It should be considered in every case of central neurological syndrome associated with eosinophilia.
The Critical Strips of the Sums 1 + 2z + ⋯+nz
Authors: Mora G. , Sepulcre J. M.
Published: May 2011

We give a partition of the critical strip, associated with each partial sum 1 + 2z + ⋯+nz of the Riemann zeta function for Re z < −1, formed by infinitely many rectangles for which a formula allows us to count the number of its zeros inside each of them with an error, at most, of two zeros. A generalization of this formula is also given to a large class of almost‐periodic functions with bounded spectrum.
Multivariate Local Polynomial Regression with Application to Shenzhen Component Index
Authors: Su Liyun
Published: May 2011

This study attempts to characterize and predict stock index series in Shenzhen stock market using the concepts of multivariate local polynomial regression. Based on nonlinearity and chaos of the stock index time series, multivariate local polynomial prediction methods and univariate local polynomial prediction method, all of which use the concept of phase space reconstruction according to Takens′ Theorem, are considered. To fit the stock index series, the single series changes into bivariate series. To evaluate the results, the multivariate predictor for bivariate time series based on multivariate local polynomial model is compared with univariate predictor with the same Shenzhen stock index data. The numerical results obtained by Shenzhen component index show that the prediction mean squared error of the multivariate predictor is much smaller than the univariate one and is much better than the existed three methods. Even if the last half of the training data are used in the multivariate predictor, the prediction mean squared error is smaller than the univariate predictor. Multivariate local polynomial prediction model for nonsingle time series is a useful tool for stock market price prediction.
Body Mass Index and Obesity- and Diabetes-Associated Genotypes and Risk for Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Tang Hongwei , Dong Xiaoqun , Hassan Manal , Abbruzzese James L. , Li Donghui
Published: May 2011

Background: The genetic factors predisposing individuals with obesity or diabetes to pancreatic cancer have not been identified.

Aims: To investigate the hypothesis that obesity- and diabetes-related genes modify the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Methods: We genotyped 15 single nucleotide polymorphisms of fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO), peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), nuclear receptor family 5 member 2 (NR5A2), AMPK, and ADIPOQ genes in 1,070 patients with pancreatic cancer and 1,175 cancer-free controls. Information on risk factors was collected by personal interview. Adjusted ORs (AOR) and 95% CIs were calculated using unconditional logistic regression.

Results: The PPARγ P12A GG genotype was inversely associated with risk of pancreatic cancer (AOR, 0.21; 95% CI, 0.07–0.62). Three NR5A2 variants that were previously identified in a genome-wide association study were significantly associated with reduced risk of pancreatic cancer, AORs ranging from 0.57 to 0.79. Two FTO gene variants and one ADIPOQ variant were differentially associated with pancreatic cancer according to levels of body mass index (BMI; Pinteraction = 0.0001, 0.0015, and 0.03). For example, the AOR (95% CI) for FTO IVS1-2777AC/AA genotype was 0.72 (0.55–0.96) and 1.54 (1.14–2.09) in participants with a BMI of less than 25 or 25 kg/m2 or more, respectively. We observed no significant association between AMPK genotype and pancreatic cancer and no genotype interactions with diabetes or smoking.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest the PPARγ P12A GG genotype and NR5A2 variants may reduce the risk for pancreatic cancer. A positive association of FTO and ADIPOQ gene variants with pancreatic cancer may be limited to persons who are overweight.

Impact: The discovery of genetic factors modifying the risk of pancreatic cancer may help to identify high-risk individuals for prevention efforts. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 20(5); 779–92. ©2011 AACR.
Common Genetic Variation at BARD1 Is Not Associated with Breast Cancer Risk in BRCA1 or BRCA2 Mutation Carriers
Authors: Spurdle Amanda B. , Marquart Louise , McGuffog Lesley , Healey Sue , Sinilnikova Olga , Wan Fei , Chen Xiaoqing , Beesley Jonathan , Singer Christian F. , Dressler Anne-Catharine , Gschwantler-Kaulich Daphne , Blum Joanne L. , Tung Nadine , Weitzel Jeff , Lynch Henry , Garber Judy , Easton Douglas F. , Peock Susan , Cook Margaret , Oliver Clare T. , Frost Debra , Conroy Don , Evans D. Gareth , Lalloo Fiona , Eeles Ros , Izatt Louise , Davidson Rosemarie , Chu Carol , Eccles Diana , Selkirk Christina G. , Daly Mary , Isaacs Claudine , Stoppa-Lyonnet Dominique , Sinilnikova Olga M. , Buecher Bruno , Belotti Muriel , Mazoyer Sylvie , Barjhoux Laure , Verny-Pierre Carole , Lasset Christine , Dreyfus Hélène , Pujol Pascal , Collonge-Rame Marie-Agnès ,   for the GEMO Study Collaborators, Rookus Matti A. , Verhoef Senno , Kriege Mieke , Hoogerbrugge Nicoline , Ausems Margreet G. E. M. , van Os Theo A. , Wijnen Juul , Devilee Peter , Meijers-Heijboer Hanne E. J. , Blok Marinus J. , Heikkinen Tuomas , Nevanlinna Heli , Jakubowska Anna , Lubiński Jan , Huzarski Tomasz , Byrski Tomasz , Durocher Francine , Couch Fergus J. , Lindor Noralane M. , Wang Xianshu , Thomassen Mads , Domchek Susan , Nathanson Kate , Caligo MA , Jernström Helena , Liljegren Annelie , Ehrencrona Hans , Karlsson Per ,   for SWE-BRCA, Ganz Patricia A. , Olopade Olufunmilayo I. , Tomlinson Gail , Neuhausen Susan , Antoniou Antonis C. , Chenevix-Trench Georgia , Rebbeck Timothy R.
Published: May 2011

Background: Inherited BRCA1 and BRCA2 (BRCA1/2) mutations confer elevated breast cancer risk. Knowledge of factors that can improve breast cancer risk assessment in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers may improve personalized cancer prevention strategies.

Methods: A cohort of 5,546 BRCA1 and 2,865 BRCA2 mutation carriers was used to evaluate risk of breast cancer associated with BARD1 Cys557Ser. In a second nonindependent cohort of 1,537 of BRCA1 and 839 BRCA2 mutation carriers, BARD1 haplotypes were also evaluated.

Results: The BARD1 Cys557Ser variant was not significantly associated with risk of breast cancer from single SNP analysis, with a pooled effect estimate of 0.90 (95% CI: 0.71–1.15) in BRCA1 carriers and 0.87 (95% CI: 0.59–1.29) in BRCA2 carriers. Further analysis of haplotypes at BARD1 also revealed no evidence that additional common genetic variation not captured by Cys557Ser was associated with breast cancer risk.

Conclusion: Evidence to date does not support a role for BARD1 variation, including the Cy557Ser variant, as a modifier of risk in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers.

Impact: Interactors of BRCA1/2 have been implicated as modifiers of BRCA1/2-associated cancer risk. Our finding that BARD1 does not contribute to this risk modification may focus research on other genes that do modify BRCA1/2-associated cancer risk. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 20(5); 1032–8. ©2011 AACR.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) 6, 11, 16, and 18 Seroprevalence Is Associated with Sexual Practice and Age: Results from the Multinational HPV Infection in Men Study (HIM Study)
Authors: Lu Beibei , Viscidi Raphael P. , Lee Ji-Hyun , Wu Yougui , Villa Luisa L. , Lazcano-Ponce Eduardo , Carvalho da Silva Roberto J. , Baggio Maria Luiza , Quiterio Manuel , Salmerón Jorge , Smith Danelle C. , Abrahamsen Martha , Papenfuss Mary , Stockwell Heather G. , Giuliano Anna R.
Published: May 2011

Background: Few human papillomavirus (HPV) serology studies have evaluated type-specific seroprevalence of vaccine HPV types in men. This study investigates seroprevalence of HPV 6, 11, 16, and 18, and associated risk factors in men residing in three countries (United States, Mexico, and Brazil).

Methods: Data from 1,477 men aged 18 to 70 enrolled in the HPV Infection in Men Study (HIM Study) were analyzed. Serum antibody testing was performed with virus-like particle-based ELISA. Potential risk factors were assessed for individual HPV types by the use of logistic regression.

Results: Overall, HPV-6, 11, 16, and 18 seroprevalence was 14.8%, 17.3%, 11.2%, and 5.8%, respectively. Thirty-four percent of men were seropositive to one or more HPV types. When examined by sexual practice, 31.2% of men who had sex with women, 65.6% of men who had sex with men (MSM), and 59.4% of men who had sex with both men and women (MSMW) were seropositive to one or more HPV types. Seroprevalence increased with age among young-to-middle-aged men with significant upward age trends observed for HPV 11, 16, and 18. Men with multiple lifetime male anal sex partners were 2 to 4 times more likely to be HPV 6 or 11 seropositive and 3 to 11 times more likely to be HPV 16 or 18 seropositive.

Conclusion: Our data indicate that exposures to vaccine HPV types were common in men and highly prevalent among MSM and MSMW.

Impact: Our study provides strong evidence that the practice of same-sex anal intercourse is an independent risk factor for seroprevalence of individual vaccine HPV types. Examination of antibody responses to HPV infections at various anatomic sites in future studies is needed to elaborate on the mechanism. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 20(5); 990–1002. ©2011 AACR.
Circulating Inflammation Markers and Risk of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Clendenen Tess V. , Lundin Eva , Zeleniuch-Jacquotte Anne , Koenig Karen L. , Berrino Franco , Lukanova Annekatrin , Lokshin Anna E. , Idahl Annika , Ohlson Nina , Hallmans Goran , Krogh Vittorio , Sieri Sabina , Muti Paola , Marrangoni Adele , Nolen Brian M. , Liu Mengling , Shore Roy E. , Arslan Alan A.
Published: May 2011

Background: Factors contributing to chronic inflammation appear to be associated with increased risk of ovarian cancer. The purpose of this study was to assess the association between circulating levels of inflammation mediators and subsequent risk of ovarian cancer.

Methods: We conducted a case-control study of 230 cases and 432 individually matched controls nested within three prospective cohorts to evaluate the association of prediagnostic circulating levels of inflammation-related biomarkers (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12p40, IL-12p70, IL-13, TNFα, IL-1Ra, sIL-1RII, sIL-2Ra, sIL-4R, sIL-6R, sTNF-R1, and sTNF-R2) measured using Luminex xMap technology with risk of ovarian cancer.

Results: We observed a trend across quartiles for IL-2 (ORQ4 vs. Q1: 1.57, 95% CI: 0.98–2.52, P = 0.07), IL-4 (ORQ4 vs. Q1: 1.50, 95% CI: 0.95–2.38, P = 0.06), IL-6 (ORQ4 vs. Q1: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.03–2.58, P = 0.03), IL-12p40 (ORQ4 vs. Q1: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.02–2.51, P = 0.06), and IL-13 (ORQ4 vs. Q1: 1.42, 95% CI: 0.90–2.26, P = 0.11). Trends were also observed when cytokines were modeled on the continuous scale for IL-4 (P trend = 0.01), IL-6 (P trend = 0.01), IL-12p40 (P trend = 0.01), and IL-13 (P trend = 0.04). ORs were not materially different after excluding cases diagnosed less than 5 years after blood donation or when limited to serous tumors.

Conclusions and Impact: This study provides the first direct evidence that multiple inflammation markers, specifically IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-12, and IL-13, may be associated with risk of epithelial ovarian cancer, and adds to the evidence that inflammation is involved in the development of this disease. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 20(5); 799–810. ©2011 AACR.
Race, African Ancestry, and Helicobacter pylori Infection in a Low-Income United States Population
Authors: Epplein Meira , Signorello Lisa B. , Zheng Wei , Peek Richard M. , Michel Angelika , Williams Scott M. , Pawlita Michael , Correa Pelayo , Cai Qiuyin , Blot William J.
Published: May 2011

Background: Gastric cancer incidence in African Americans is twice that of whites, and differing prevalence of Helicobacter pylori strain-specific isolates may help explain the disparity.

Methods: Serum levels of antibodies to each of 15 H. pylori proteins were assessed using multiplex serology for a sample of 689 African American and white participants from the Southern Community Cohort Study. African and European admixture was estimated using a panel of 276 ancestry genetic markers, with “low,” “medium,” and “high” categories of African ancestry defined as <85%, 85% to 95%, and ≥95%.

Results: The majority (79%) of our study population were sero-positive for H. pylori. African American race was associated with a two- to sixfold increased odds for sero-positivity to eight H. pylori proteins, including the cancer-associated virulence constituents CagA [odds ratio (OR), 6.4; 95% CI, 4.5–9.1], and VacA (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.5–3.5). Compared to whites, African Americans of low, medium, and high African ancestry had 1.6-, 4.1-, and 5.2-fold increased odds of sero-positivity to H. pylori, primarily related to CagA sero-positive strains, for which increasing African ancestry led to 2.5-, 9.6-, and 13.1-fold increased odds. Among African Americans alone, compared to those of low African ancestry, African Americans of medium and high African ancestry had 2.5- and 3.4-fold increased odds of sero-positivity to H. pylori, and 3.5- and 4.9-fold increased odds of CagA sero-positive H. pylori strains.

Conclusions: Host genetic variation and/or lifestyle factors associated with African ancestry contribute to the likelihood of infection with H. pylori, particularly its virulent strains, in this low-income U.S. southern population.

Impact: Our findings that low-income African Americans of high African ancestry have a particularly high prevalence of antibodies against H. pylori provides a framework for further research into better detection and prevention of gastric cancer in this population. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 20(5); 826–34. ©2011 AACR.
Conducting Cancer Control and Survivorship Research via Cooperative Groups: A Report from the American Society of Preventive Oncology
Authors: Palesh Oxana , Demark-Wahnefried Wendy , Mustian Karen , Minasian Lori , Rowland Julia , Sprod Lisa , Janelsins Michelle , Peppone Luke , Sloan Jeff , Engquist Karen Basen , Jones Lee , Buist Diana , Paskett Electra D.
Published: May 2011

As the number of cancer survivors expands, the need for cancer control and survivorship research becomes increasingly important. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) Cooperative Groups may offer a viable platform to perform such research. Observational, preventive, and behavioral research can often be performed within the cooperative group setting, especially if resources needed for evaluation are fairly simple, if protocols are easily implemented within the typical clinical setting, and if interventions are well standardized. Some protocols are better suited to cooperative groups than are others, and there are advantages and disadvantages to conducting survivorship research within the cooperative group setting. Behavioral researchers currently involved in cooperative groups, as well as program staff within the NCI, can serve as sources of information for those wishing to pursue symptom management and survivorship studies within the clinical trial setting. The structure of the cooperative groups is currently changing, but going forward, survivorship is bound to be a topic of interest and one that perhaps may be more easily addressed using the proposed more centralized structure. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 20(5); 1050–5. ©2011 AACR.
DNA Amount of X and B Chromosomes in the Grasshoppers Eyprepocnemis plorans and Locusta migratoria
Authors: Ruiz-Ruano F.J. , Ruiz-Estévez M. , Rodríguez-Pérez J. , López-Pino J.L. , Cabrero J. , Camacho J.P.M.
Published: May 2011

We analyzed the DNA amount in X and B chromosomes of 2 XX/X0 grasshopper species (Eyprepocnemis plorans and Locusta migratoria), by means of Feulgen image analysis densitometry (FIAD), using previous estimates in L. migratoria as standard (5.89 pg). We first analyzed spermatids of 0B males and found a bimodal distribution of integrated optical densities (IODs), suggesting that one peak corresponded to +X and the other to –X spermatids. The difference between the 2 peaks corresponded to the X chromosome DNA amount, which was 1.28 pg in E. plorans and 0.80 pg in L. migratoria. In addition, the +X peak in E. plorans gave an estimate of the C-value in this species (10.39 pg). We next analyzed diplotene cells from 1B males in E. plorans and +B males in L. migratoria (a species where Bs are mitotically unstable and no integer B number can be defined for an individual) and measured B chromosome IOD relative to X chromosome IOD, within the same cell, taking advantage of the similar degree of condensation for both positively heteropycnotic chromosomes at this meiotic stage. From this proportion, we estimated the DNA amount for 3 different B chromosome variants found in individuals from 3 E. plorans Spanish populations (0.54 pg for B1 from Saladares, 0.51 pg for B2 from Salobreña and 0.64 for B24 from Torrox). Likewise, we estimated the DNA amount of the B chromosome in L. migratoria to be 0.15 pg. To automate measurements, we wrote a GPL3 licensed Python program (pyFIA). We discuss the utility of the present approach for estimating X and B chromosome DNA amount in a variety of situations, and the meaning of the DNA amount estimates for X and B chromosomes in these 2 species.
Activation of Rye 5RL Neocentromere by an Organophosphate Pesticide
Authors: Cuacos M. , González-García M. , González-Sánchez M. , Puertas M.J. , Vega J.M.
Published: May 2011

An interstitial constriction located on the long arm of rye chromosome 5R (5RL) shows neocentromeric activity at meiosis. In some meiocytes this region is strongly stretched orienting with the true centromere to opposite poles at metaphase I, and keeping sister chromatid cohesion at anaphase I. We found previously that the frequency of neocentric activity varied dramatically in different generations suggesting the effect of environmental factors. Here we studied the behavior of the 5RL neocentromere in mono- and ditelosomic 5RL, and mono-, and disomic 5R wheat-rye addition lines, untreated and treated with an organophosphate pesticide. The treated plants form neocentromeres with an about 4.5-fold increased frequency compared to untreated ones, demonstrating that the pesticide promotes neocentric activity. The neocentromere was activated irrespectively of the pairing configuration or the presence of a complete or truncated 5R centromere. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with 2 repetitive sequences (UCM600 and pSc119.2) present at the constriction showed kinetic activity at several locations within this region. Immunostaining with anti-α-tubulin showed that treated plants have abnormal spindles in 46% of the metaphase I cells, indicating that disturbances in spindle formation might promote neocentromere activation.
1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 Attenuates Platelet Activation and the Expression of VCAM-1 and MT1-MMP in Human Endothelial Cells
Authors: Stach Ksenija , Kälsch Anna-Isabelle , Nguyen Xuan Duc , Elmas Elif , Kralev Stefan , Lang Siegfried , Weiss Christel , Borggrefe Martin , Kälsch Thorsten
Published: May 2011

Objective: Inflammatory conditions contribute to increased expression of various activity markers in platelets and endothelial cells, leading to atherosclerotic changes in the vascular wall. The objective of this study was to investigate possible protective effects of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 in an endothelial cell model. Methods: After a 24-hour incubation with 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, human umbilical vein endothelial cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and incubated in direct contact with platelets. The expression of CD40L and CD62P in platelets, the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), the urokinase receptor uPAR and membrane type 1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) in endothelial cells and endothelial cell reactive oxygen species generation were measured by flow cytometry. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase was analyzed by Western blot. Results: The increased expression of VCAM-1 and MT1-MMP in endothelial cells by proinflammatory stimulation with LPS and by direct contact with activated platelets was significantly reduced through preincubation with 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Platelets in direct contact with preincubated endothelial cells showed significantly reduced CD62P expression when compared to platelets incubated with untreated endothelial cells. Conclusions: 1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 attenuates platelet activation and the expression of VCAM-1 and MT1-MMP in human endothelial cells and could have early therapeutic relevance in atherosclerotic diseases.
Mitral and Tricuspid Annular Velocities Before and After Pericardiectomy in Patients With Constrictive Pericarditis
Authors: Veress Gabriella , Ling Lieng H. , Kim Kye-Hun , Dal-Bianco Jacob P. , Schaff Hartzell V. , Espinosa Raul E. , Melduni Rowlens M. , Tajik Jamil A. , Sundt Thoralf M. , Oh Jae K.
Published: May 2011

Background—

Previous studies have demonstrated that mitral annulus early diastolic (e′) velocity is increased in constrictive pericarditis (CP) and reduced in restrictive cardiomyopathy. However, those studies did not comprehensively evaluate mitral and tricuspid annular velocities before and after pericardiectomy.

Methods and Results—

We performed comprehensive echocardiography before and after pericardiectomy in 99 patients with CP, 52 with primary (idiopathic or postpericarditis etiology) and 47 with secondary CP (due to surgery or radiation). Overall, mean±SD mitral medial, mitral lateral, and tricuspid lateral e′ velocities were 12.2±4.2, 10.0±5.4, and 11.6±3.5 cm/s, respectively; annular late diastolic velocities were 10.3±4.3, 12.2±4.9, and 11.7±5.4 cm/s, respectively; and annular systolic (s′) velocities were 7.8±2.8, 8.2±2.1, and 11.2±3.8 cm/s, respectively. Medial e′ was equal to or greater than mitral lateral e′ in 74% of analyzable cases. With the exception of tricuspid s′, there were significant differences in all s′ and e′velocities between primary and secondary CP before pericardiectomy. After pericardiectomy, all annular velocities decreased significantly (
P
<0.02 for all comparisons). The reduction in medial e′ velocity was greater than that of mitral lateral e′ velocity (
P
<0.0001 and
P
=0.0004, respectively), and the mitral lateral/medial e′ ratio normalized (
P
=0.0002).

Conclusions—

The mitral lateral/medial e′ ratio is reversed in three fourths of patients with CP. All annular velocities are lower in secondary compared to primary CP before pericardiectomy. After pericardiectomy, there is reduction of all annular velocities and normalization of the mitral lateral/medial e′ ratio.
A Comparison of Methods for Estimating Confidence Intervals for Omega-Squared Effect Size
Authors: Finch W. Holmes , French Brian F.
Published: May 2011

Effect size use has been increasing in the past decade in many research areas. Confidence intervals associated with effect sizes are encouraged to be reported. Prior work has investigated the performance of confidence interval estimation with Cohen’s d. This study extends this line of work to the analysis of variance case with more than two groups. Confidence interval estimation for the omega-squared (ω2) effect size measure was evaluated under a variety of simulated conditions with three methods where the primary interest was in the comparative performance of the three confidence interval calculation methods (i.e., parametric, percentile bootstrap, and bootstrap bias-corrected and accelerated confidence interval [BCA]) across a variety of real-life data situations. Results suggest that sample size and magnitude of the effect influence coverage rates and interval width. The percentile bootstrap method produced the widest intervals and had higher coverage rates in the smaller effect size conditions compared with the parametric and BCA approaches.
Prospects for Individual Economies
Authors: Holland Dawn , Barrell Ray , Delannoy Aurélie , Fic Tatiana , Hurst Ian , Orazgani Ali , Paluchowski Paweł , Whitworth Rachel
Published: May 2011

The headline figure for US GDP growth in the final quarter of 2010 was perhaps slightly higher than expected given the slowdown in Europe and Japan, at an annualised rate of 3.1 per cent. But a closer look at the components of GDP reveals an underlying weakness in the US economy. Domestic demand stagnated in the final quarter of 2010, and the strong rise in GDP is entirely attributable to a 12.6 per cent (annualised) contraction in import volumes. The slowdowns in Europe and Japan should be seen as at least partly attributable to this loss of demand from the US, which remains the world's largest importer of goods and services, accounting for about 12½ per cent of world trade (see Appendix figure B3). Available information for the first quarter of 2011 suggests that consumer spending growth moderated to about 1½ per cent at an annualised rate, and we expect GDP growth in the US to average about 2½ per cent per annum this year and next.
How Idiosyncratic are Banking Crises in OECD Countries?
Authors: Barrell Ray , Davis E. Philip , Karim Dilruba , Liadze Iana
Published: May 2011

Low levels of bank capital and liquidity in combination with ongoing crises in other countries are shown to increase the probability of banking crises in OECD countries. Hence global coordination of regulatory reform is vital for reducing crisis risks.
Feasibility and Acceptance of a Nonpharmacological Cognitive Remediation Intervention for Patients With Parkinson Disease
Authors: Mohlman Jan , Chazin Daniel , Georgescu Bianca
Published: May 2011

Many patients with idiopathic Parkinson disease (PD) experience deficits in executive skills (ES; eg, attentional control, self-monitoring), which are associated with a range of impairing symptoms such as visual hallucinations, decreased motor control, and increased apathy. Pharmacological methods for improving ES in PD have shown to be somewhat unreliable. The goal of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and patient acceptance of a nonpharmacological cognitive remediation program that aimed to improve sustained, selective, alternating, and divided attentional abilities in a sample of 16 nondemented PD patients. Based on ratings of 4 feasibility dimensions (fatigue, effort, progress, enjoyment), patients with PD demonstrated a high degree of acceptance and successfully engaged in the program. As predicted, ratings of progress differed significantly across tasks according to difficulty level and were positively related to posttraining improvement in ES. Fatigue ratings showed negative associations with other indices across task types, suggesting that monitoring fatigue during cognitive remediation is essential. Patients’ ratings of enjoyment did not correspond to task difficulty, indicating that tasks could be simultaneously challenging and rewarding. Males reported exerting greater effort during the training than females. It was concluded that the intervention is appropriate for testing in a randomized controlled trial.
Diagnostic Indicators of Anxiety and Depression in Older Dizzy Patients in Primary Care
Authors: Maarsingh Otto R. , Dros Jacquelien , van der Windt Daniëlle A. , ter Riet Gerben , Schellevis François G. , van Weert Henk C. , van der Horst Henriëtte E.
Published: May 2011

Background: Dizzy patients with both psychological and physical symptoms tend to have high levels of disability and are at risk of remaining symptomatic and disabled. The objective of this study was to develop a prediction model for the presence of anxiety and/or depression in older dizzy patients in primary care. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study among 415 older patients consulting their primary care physician for persistent dizziness. Participants underwent a standardized, comprehensive evaluation and completed self-administered questionnaires regarding anxiety and depression (PRIME-MD Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ]) and dizziness-related disability (Dizziness Handicap Inventory). To determine the diagnostic indicators of anxiety and/or depression, we used multiple logistic regression analysis with ‘‘presence of Panic Disorder, Other Anxiety Disorder, or Major Depressive Disorder’’ as dependent variable. Potential diagnostic indicators included dizziness-related disability, patient characteristics (age, sex, history of anxiety, and history of depression), and dizziness characteristics (description of dizziness, provoking circumstances, associated symptoms, onset, frequency, duration, and avoidance of activities because of dizziness). Results: According to the PHQ, an anxiety and/or depressive disorder was present in 90 patients (22%), of whom 35 reported no medical history of anxiety or depression, nor current pharmacological treatment for these disorders. In the final model, dizziness-related disability, a history of depression, and accompanying fear were associated with an increased odd of anxiety and/or depression, whereas tinnitus and rotational dizziness were associated with a decreased odd of anxiety and/or depression. The model showed good calibration (Hosmer-Lemeshow P value of .46) and discrimination (adjusted area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] after bootstrapping of .82). Conclusions: Primary care physicians should consider the existence of anxiety and depression in older patients presenting with dizziness. After external validation, our model may contribute to better recognition and hence better management of anxiety and depression in older patients with dizziness in primary care.