bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuregulin Effect on Quantal Content Dissociated From Effect on Miniature Endplate Potential Amplitude
Authors: Mann Mary Anne , Das Saumya , Zhang Jinghua , Wagner Meredith , Fischbach Gerald D.
Published: July 2006

Members of the neuregulin family of signaling proteins increase transcription of acetylcholine receptor (AChR) subunit genes in muscle fibers and the number of AChRs in the muscle membrane. In adult mice heterozygous for targeted deletion of type I neuregulins (Ig-NRG+/−), postsynaptic AChR density was decreased and transmitter release was increased. We examined the relationship between functional AChR density and ACh release in postnatal day 7 (P7), P14, and adult NRG-deficient mice. Here we report that changes in postsynaptic sensitivity and transmitter release are not temporally coupled during postnatal development in Ig-NRG–deficient mice. Although miniature endplate potential (MEPP) amplitude was decreased compared with control in P7 Ig-NRG+/−mice, quantum content was not increased. Quantum content was increased in adult heterozygotes despite normal MEPP amplitudes. Thus, during postnatal maturation, both quantal size and quantum content were influenced by decreased Ig-NRG expression, although the effects were dissociated in time.
Celecoxib Treatment Alters the Gene Expression Profile of Normal Colonic Mucosa
Authors: Glebov Oleg K. , Rodriguez Luz M. , Lynch Patrick , Patterson Sherri , Lynch Henry , Nakahara Kenneth , Jenkins Jean , Cliatt Janet , Humbyrd Casey-Jo , DeNobile John , Soballe Peter , Gallinger Steven , Buchbinder Aby , Gordon Gary , Hawk Ernest , Kirsch Ilan R.
Published: July 2006

A clinical trial was recently conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a selective inhibitor of cyclooxygenase-2 (celecoxib) in hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer patients. In a randomized, placebo-controlled phase I/II multicenter trial, hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer patients and gene carriers received either celecoxib at one of two doses or placebo. The goal was to evaluate the effects of these treatment arms on a number of endoscopic and tissue-based biomarker end points after 12 months of treatment. As part of this trial, we analyzed gene expression by cDNA array technology in normal descending (rectal) colonic mucosa of patients before and after treatment with celecoxib or placebo. We found that treatment of patients with celecoxib at recommended clinical doses (200 and 400 mg p.o. bid), in contrast to treatment with placebo, leads to changes in expression of >1,400 genes in the healthy colon, although in general, the magnitude of changes is <2-fold. Twenty-three of 25 pairs of colon biopsies taken before and after celecoxib treatment can be classified correctly by the pattern of gene expression in a leave-one-out cross-validation. Immune response, particularly T- and B-lymphocyte activation and early steps of inflammatory reaction, cell signaling and cell adhesion, response to stress, transforming growth factor-β signaling, and regulation of apoptosis, are the main biological processes targeted by celecoxib as shown by overrepresentation analysis of the distribution of celecoxib-affected genes across Gene Ontology categories. Analysis of possible cumulative effects of celecoxib-induced changes in gene expression indicates that in healthy colon, celecoxib may suppress the immune response and early steps of inflammation, inhibit formation of focal contacts, and stimulate transforming growth factor-β signaling. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(7):1382–91)
Mammographic Density Correlation with Gail Model Breast Cancer Risk Estimates and Component Risk Factors
Authors: Palomares Melanie R. , Machia Joelle R.B. , Lehman Constance D. , Daling Janet R. , McTiernan Anne
Published: July 2006

Background: The Gail model is a validated breast cancer risk assessment tool that is primarily based on nonmodifiable breast cancer risk factors. Conversely, mammographic breast density is strongly correlated with breast cancer risk and responds to risk-modifying interventions. The purpose of our study was to correlate mammographic density with breast cancer risk as calculated by the Gail model and to examine the relative association of each of the model covariates to mammographic density.

Methods: The study included 99 participants of the National Surgical Breast and Bowel Project P-1 trial, ages 36 to 74 years, all of whom had a mammogram and Gail model risk estimates done upon trial entry. Baseline mammograms were retrieved and digitized, and mammographic density was assessed by both subjective and computer-assisted objective measures.

Results: Mammographic density was 2-fold higher in women with a >15% lifetime risk of breast cancer compared with those with <15% risk, by all density assessment methods. This was equivalent to a 3% to 6% increase in density per 10% increase in risk. Gail model covariates that measured benign or premalignant breast tissue changes accounted for the majority (41%) of the relationship with increased mammographic density. Seven percent of density was not explained by risk factors included in the Gail model.

Conclusions: The Gail model does not fully account for the association between breast density and calculated breast cancer risk. Because mammographic density is a modifiable marker, development of a breast cancer risk assessment tool that includes mammographic density could be beneficial for assessing individual risk. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(7):1324–30)
Comparative Analysis of 19 Genital Human Papillomavirus Types with Regard to p53 Degradation, Immortalization, Phylogeny, and Epidemiologic Risk Classification
Authors: Hiller Thomas , Poppelreuther Sven , Stubenrauch Frank , Iftner Thomas
Published: July 2006

We have analyzed E6 proteins of 19 papillomaviruses able to infect genital tissue with regard to their ability to degrade p53 and the thus far unknown immortalization potential of the genomes of human papillomaviruses (HPV) 53, 56, 58, 61, 66, and 82 in primary human keratinocytes. E6 proteins of HPV types 16, 18, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, and 66, defined as high-risk types, were able to induce p53 degradation in vitro, and HPV18-, HPV56-, and HPV58-immortalized keratinocytes revealed markedly reduced levels of p53. In contrast, the E6 proteins of HPV6 and 11 and HPV44, 54, and 61, regarded as possible carcinogenic or low-risk HPV types, respectively, did not degrade p53. Interestingly, the E6 proteins of HPV 53, 70, and 82 inconsistently risk classified in the literature were also found to induce p53 degradation. The genomes of HPV53 and 82 immortalized primary human keratinocytes that revealed almost absent nuclear levels of p53. These data suggest a strict correlation between the biological properties of certain HPV types with conserved nucleotide sequence (phylogeny), which is largely coherent with epidemiologic risk classification. HPV types 16, 18, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, and 66, generally accepted as high-risk types, behaved in our assays biologically different from HPV types 6, 11, 44, 54, and 61. In contrast, HPV70, regarded as low-risk type, and HPV53 or HPV82, with inconsistent described risk status, were indistinguishable with respect to p53 degradation and immortalization from prototype high-risk HPV types. This could imply that other important functional differences exist between phylogenetically highly related viruses displaying similar biological properties in tissue culture that may affect their carcinogenicity in vivo. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(7):1262–7)
Estimating Exposure to Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: A Comparison of Survey, Biological Monitoring, and Geographic Information System–Based Methods
Authors: Gunier Robert B. , Reynolds Peggy , Hurley Susan E. , Yerabati Sauda , Hertz Andrew , Strickland Paul , Horn-Ross Pamela L.
Published: July 2006

Our objective was to compare polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) exposure estimates based on survey, biological monitoring, and geographic information system (GIS) methods. The 304 participants in this study supplied a urine sample and completed questionnaires about exposure to potential PAH sources. We assayed urine samples for 1-hydroxypyrene-O-glucuronide (1-OHPG), the major metabolite of pyrene, a common PAH. We used a GIS to estimate traffic exhaust exposure using vehicle count data at the residence and workplace. The five subjects who reported smoking during the 48-hour period had median 1-OHPG concentrations 10-fold that of nonsmokers (1.6 versus 0.16 pmol/mL; P = 0.01). Among nonsmokers, those who reported eating grilled, roasted, or broiled meat had significantly higher 1-OHPG concentrations than those who did not reported eating meat prepared by these methods (0.25 versus 0.06 pmol/mL; P = 0.02). Nonsmokers who reported traveling on roads for ≥3 hours during the 48-hour period also had significantly higher 1-OHPG levels than those who traveled <3 hours (0.23 versus 0.11 pmol/mL; P = 0.03). 1-OHPG levels were also correlated with hours of secondhand smoke exposure among nonsmokers (P = 0.04). In this study, 1-OHPG urine concentrations were not associated with self-reported exposures to cooking smoke, wood burning, or traffic levels near the home or to traffic density or urban/rural status determined using a GIS. Self-reported indicators of residential proximity to high traffic volume were, however, associated with GIS traffic density measures. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(7):1376–81)
Folate Intake and Stomach Cancer Incidence in a Prospective Cohort of Swedish Women
Authors: Larsson Susanna C. , Giovannucci Edward , Wolk Alicja
Published: July 2006

Background: Experimental and epidemiologic evidence suggests that folate may play a role in the development of some cancers. Case-control studies and one prospective cohort study on folate intake in relation to stomach cancer risk have yielded inconsistent results.

Methods: We prospectively investigated the relation between folate intake and the incidence of stomach cancer among 61,433 women in the Swedish Mammography Cohort. Participants completed a food frequency questionnaire at baseline (1987-1990) and again in 1997. During follow-up through December 2004, 156 incident stomach cancer cases were diagnosed. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate multivariate-adjusted hazard ratios.

Results: There was no association between dietary folate intake (i.e., folate from food sources) and the risk of stomach cancer. The multivariate hazard ratio for the highest compared with the lowest category of updated average dietary folate intake was 1.04 (95% confidence interval, 0.61-1.86; Ptrend = 0.91). The relation between dietary folate intake and stomach cancer did not vary significantly by intake of alcohol, methionine, or caffeine.

Conclusion: Results from this prospective study do not support an association between dietary folate intake and risk of stomach cancer. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(7):1409–12)
Motives of Belgian Adolescents for Using Sunscreen: The Role of Action Plans
Authors: de Vries Hein , Mesters Ilse , Riet Jonathan van't , Willems Karen , Reubsaet Astrid
Published: July 2006

The first objective of this study was to analyze the differences between adolescents who use sunscreen frequently and those who do not. The second objective was to explore the importance of specific action plans when planning sunscreen use. Data was gathered among 602 Belgian secondary school students. Frequent and infrequent users of sunscreen were compared on several determinants related with sunscreen use, and a regression analysis on sunscreen use was done. Frequent users of sunscreen measures had significantly higher scores on attitudes, social influence, self-efficacy, some awareness factors, intention, and action plans. The integrated model for exploring motivational and behavioral change (I-Change model) explained 57% of the total variance of using sunscreen every 2 hours. Frequent sunscreen use was most strongly predicted by action plans, followed by positive intentions to use sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, attitude toward sunscreen use, education, social influence, and exposure to the sun. Our results suggest that skin cancer prevention programs aimed at promoting sunscreen use need to emphasize the advantages of sunscreen to infrequent users and to increase feelings of self-efficacy. Moreover, support by friends and parents should be stimulated. Finally, developing specific action plans for the use of sunscreen should be promoted to more effectively translate general intentions into actual sunscreen use. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(7):1360–6)
Effect of Helicobacter pylori Infection Combined with CagA and Pepsinogen Status on Gastric Cancer Development among Japanese Men and Women: A Nested Case-Control Study
Authors: Sasazuki Shizuka , Inoue Manami , Iwasaki Motoki , Otani Tetsuya , Yamamoto Seiichiro , Ikeda Shinobu , Hanaoka Tomoyuki , Tsugane Shoichiro ,   for the Japan Public Health Center Study Group
Published: July 2006

Background: Although accumulating evidence suggests that Helicobacter pylori plays a role in gastric carcinogenesis, the magnitude of the risk remains uncertain.

Aim: We aimed to estimate the magnitude of the risk of gastric cancer associated with H. pylori infection by a large case-control study nested within a prospective cohort. Possible effect modification by CagA status, and serum pepsinogen status, as a marker of atrophic gastritis, was also considered to see its effect on developing gastric cancer.

Subjects and Methods: Subjects (n = 123,576) were followed up from 1990 to 2004; 511 gastric cancer cases matched to 511 controls were used in the analysis. Plasma immunoglobulin G antibody to H. pylori, CagA, and pepsinogen I and II were measured.

Results: The adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of gastric cancer associated with H. pylori infection was 5.1 (3.2-8.0). Assuming all CagA-positive subjects are true H. pylori positives doubled this risk. Atrophic gastritis was also associated with an elevated risk of gastric cancer and the risk increased further with pepsinogen levels.

Conclusions: Subjects with pepsinogen levels indicative of severe atrophic gastritis may need careful examination regularly regardless of H. pylori infection. Those who have other pepsinogen levels but who are H. pylori seropositive are likely to benefit from H. pylori eradication therapy. Considering both the cost and the potential for misclassification that may occur using multiple serologic tests, caution is needed in interpreting or extrapolating these findings into a screening strategy. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(7):1341–7)
Alpha CTX as a Biomarker of Skeletal Invasion of Breast Cancer: Immunolocalization and the Load Dependency of Urinary Excretion
Authors: Leeming Diana J. , Delling Günter , Koizumi Mitsuru , Henriksen Kim , Karsdal Morten A. , Li Bo , Qvist Per , Tankó László B. , Byrjalsen Inger
Published: July 2006

We recently showed that increased urinary excretion of the cross-linked, nonisomerized form of the C-telopeptide of collagen type I (ααCTX) could be a sensitive indicator of the presence of bone metastases in breast cancer patients. The present study was sought to investigate (a) the localization of αCTX epitopes in the proximity of a bone metastasis and (b) the relationship between number of metastases and the urinary excretion of ααCTX. Adjacent bone sections from breast cancer patients were stained for the presence of tumor cells (anti-cytokeratin antibody), osteoclasts (TRAcP activity), and αCTX (anti-αCTX antibody). The association between the extent of metastatic bone disease and urinary excretion of ααCTX measured with ELISA was assessed in 90 breast cancer patients (45 with bone metastasis and 45 without bone metastasis). Immunohistochemistry revealed accumulation of TRAcP-positive osteoclasts and intense staining for αCTX epitopes in the proximity of cytokeratin-positive bone metastasis. Areas of αCTX staining showed unstructured bone tissue under polarized light. In addition, there was a significant linear association between the number of bone metastases and the urinary levels of ααCTX in breast cancer patients with metastatic bone disease, independent of age and body mass index (r = 0.56, P < 0.001). The estimated relative increases in ααCTX associated with the presence of one, two, or three metastases are 38%, 57%, and 81%, respectively. Taken into account the 17% intraindividual variation of the assay, ααCTX could be a sensitive biochemical marker for the close monitoring of cancer patients aiming the facilitation of early metastasis detection. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(7):1392–5)
Familial Risks for Cervical Tumors in Full and Half Siblings: Etiologic Apportioning
Authors: Hemminki Kari , Chen Bowang
Published: July 2006

Many studies have shown familial aggregation for cervical cancer, but they have been unable to distinguish between shared environmental and genetic effects. Full and half-siblings were identified from the nationwide Swedish Family-Cancer Database, including invasive and in situ cervical cancers in women up to age 70 years. Half-siblings were defined through a common father or mother. Standardized incidence ratios, adjusted for several variables, were calculated for proband-wise risks between full and half-siblings. The familial risk for full siblings was 1.84, compared with 1.40 for maternal and 1.27 for paternal half-siblings. These data were used to apportion familial risk for cervical tumors in full siblings into a heritable component, accounting for 64%, and an environmental component, accounting for 36% of the total risk. No evidence for gene-environment interactions was found. The intractable difficulty in separating cervical cancer causation will be an obstacle for a successful identification of susceptibility genes. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(7):1413-4)
Loss of Heterozygosity at theBRCA1andBRCA2Loci Detected in Ductal Lavage Fluid fromBRCAGene Mutation Carriers and Controls
Authors: Locke Imogen , Kote-Jarai Zsofia , Bancroft Elizabeth , Bullock Sarah , Jugurnauth Sarah , Osin Peter , Nerurkar Ashutosh , Izatt Louise , Pichert Gabriella , Gui Gerald P. H. , Eeles Rosalind A.
Published: July 2006

Female BRCA gene mutation carriers are at increased risk for developing breast cancer. Ductal lavage is a novel method for sampling breast ductal fluid, providing epithelial cells for cytologic assessment and a source of free DNA for molecular analyses. Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) at the BRCA loci in ductal lavage fluid is a potential biomarker of breast cancer risk. The LOH rate was measured at the BRCA1/2 loci and compared with that at a control locus (APC) using free DNA from the ductal lavage fluid of BRCA carriers and predictive test negative controls. We evaluated the reproducibility of these analyses. Free DNA sufficient for PCR amplification was obtained from 33 ductal lavage samples of 17 healthy women of known BRCA status (14 BRCA carriers and 3 controls). LOH rates of 36.4% to 56.3% at the BRCA1 locus and 45% to 61.5% at the BRCA2 locus were found among BRCA carriers. The LOH rate at the APC locus was lower (18.5%). The interaliquot reproducibility for the D17S855 marker of the BRCA1 locus was 66.7%. Intraaliquot reproducibility was 90%. Although we successfully isolated sufficient free DNA from ductal lavage fluid for PCR amplification, the degree of reproducibility of these LOH studies raises questions about the robustness of this technique as a risk assessment tool in the evaluation of high-risk women. Further studies are required to evaluate the specificity and predictive value of LOH in ductal lavage fluid for breast cancer development. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(7):1399–402)
Loss of Heterozygosity Analysis in Ductal Lavage Samples from BRCA1 and BRCA2 Carriers: A Cautionary Tale
Authors: Antill Yoland C. , Mitchell Gillian , Johnson Sandra A. , Devereux Lisa , Milner Alvin , Phillips Kelly-Anne , Campbell Ian G.
Published: July 2006

Background: Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in breast ductal lavage (DL) fluid has been reported to be a potential biomarker of malignant change. Interpretation of LOH is reliant on sufficient quality and quantity of DNA. We investigated LOH of the BRCA1/2 loci in DL samples from BRCA1/2 mutation carriers, while also assessing the effect of DNA quantity.

Methods: DNA yield was estimated using quantitative real-time PCR. Allelic status of DL DNA was determined using fluorescently tagged microsatellite markers with the subject's lymphocytic DNA serving as a control. Samples were scored as consistently heterozygous or as demonstrating LOH if the same result was observed in replicate experiments. Additionally, samples were scored as “discordant LOH” if they initially showed LOH, but in replicate experiments either showed heterozygosity or LOH of the opposite allele.

Results: In 11 BRCA1 carriers, 46 ducts were assessable, and 39 ducts from 14 BRCA2 carriers were assessable. LOH was observed in 17% and 18% of ducts from BRCA1 and BRCA2, respectively. Discordant results were seen in 23 BRCA1 (50%) and 15 BRCA2 (38%) samples. DNA yield was significantly greater in samples that were consistently heterozygous than those that were either discordant or showed LOH in replicate experiments for both BRCA1 (P = 0.003) and BRCA2 (P = 0.003).

Conclusions: DNA quantity is highly variable between DL samples, with low yields likely to detrimentally affect the interpretation of LOH. In conclusion, LOH may not be an adequate method to detect the early stages of malignant change in samples obtained via DL. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(7):1396–8)
Smoking and Bladder Cancer in Spain: Effects of Tobacco Type, Timing, Environmental Tobacco Smoke, and Gender
Authors: Samanic Claudine , Kogevinas Manolis , Dosemeci Mustafa , Malats Núria , Real Francisco X. , Garcia-Closas Montserrat , Serra Consol , Carrato Alfredo , García-Closas Reina , Sala Maria , Lloreta Josep , Tardón Adonina , Rothman Nathaniel , Silverman Debra T.
Published: July 2006

We examined the effects of dose, type of tobacco, cessation, inhalation, and environmental tobacco smoke exposure on bladder cancer risk among 1,219 patients with newly diagnosed bladder cancer and 1,271 controls recruited from 18 hospitals in Spain. We used unconditional logistic regression to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for the association between bladder cancer risk and various characteristics of cigarette smoking. Current smokers (men: OR, 7.4; 95% CI, 5.3-10.4; women: OR, 5.1; 95% CI, 1.6-16.4) and former smokers (men: OR, 3.8; 95% CI, 2.8-5.3; women: OR, 1.8; 95% CI, 0.5-7.2) had significantly increased risks of bladder cancer compared with nonsmokers. We observed a significant positive trend in risk with increasing duration and amount smoked. After adjustment for duration, risk was only 40% higher in smokers of black tobacco than that in smokers of blond tobacco (OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 0.98-2.0). Compared with risk in current smokers, a significant inverse trend in risk with increasing time since quitting smoking blond tobacco was observed (≥20 years cessation: OR, 0.2; 95% CI, 0.1-0.9). No trend in risk with cessation of smoking black tobacco was apparent. Compared with men who inhaled into the mouth, risk increased for men who inhaled into the throat (OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.1-2.6) and chest (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.1-2.1). Cumulative occupational exposure to environmental tobacco smoke seemed to confer increased risk among female nonsmokers but not among male nonsmokers. After eliminating the effect of cigarette smoking on bladder cancer risk in our study population, the male-to-female incidence ratio decreased from 8.2 to 1.7, suggesting that nearly the entire male excess of bladder cancer observed in Spain is explained by cigarette smoking rather than occupational/environmental exposures to other bladder carcinogens. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(7):1348–54)
Glutaraldehyde-Fixed Bioprosthetic Heart Valve Conduits Calcify and Fail From Xenograft Rejection
Authors: Manji Rizwan A. , Zhu Lin F. , Nijjar Nimrit K. , Rayner David C. , Korbutt Greg S. , Churchill Thomas A. , Rajotte Ray V. , Koshal Arvind , Ross David B.
Published: July 2006

Background—

Glutaraldehyde fixation (G-F) decreases but likely does not eliminate the antigenicity of bioprosthetic heart valves. Rejection (with secondary dystrophic calcification) may be why G-F xenograft valves fail, especially in young patients, who are more immunocompetent than the elderly. Therefore, we sought to determine whether rejection of G-F xenograft occurs and to correlate this with graft calcification.

Methods and Results—

Ascending aortas/valves (from rats [syngeneic] or guinea pigs [xenogeneic]) were transplanted (fresh or after 48 hour of G-F) into the infrarenal aortas of young rat recipients for 20 days. A xenogeneic group was also treated with steroids until graft harvest. The valves and media/adventitia were scored blindly for inflammation (0 to 4). Percent graft infiltration by T cells/macrophages was determined (immunohistochemistry), and rat IgG ELISAs were performed. There was >3 times more valve inflammation, >10 times more valve T-cell/macrophage infiltrate, and >3 times antibody rise in the G-F xenogeneic groups compared with the fresh syngeneic or the G-F syngeneic groups (
P
<0.05). There was >2 times more adventitial inflammation and T-cell/macrophage infiltrate in the xenogeneic groups (
P
<0.05). Steroid treatment decreased inflammation and antibody rise in the xenogeneic groups (
P
<0.05). Correlation analysis revealed media/adventitia inflammation (
P
=0.02) and percent macrophage (
P
=0.01) infiltration to be predictors of calcification.

Conclusions—

G-F xenografts have cellular/humoral rejection and calcify secondarily.
Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blockade Prevents Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Cheng Che-Ping , Cheng Heng-Jie , Cunningham Carol , Shihabi Zakariya K. , Sane David C. , Wannenburg Thomas , Little William C.
Published: July 2006

Background—

Activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) may contribute to the development of alcoholic cardiomyopathy. We evaluated the effect of angiotensin II (Ang II) type 1 receptor (AT
1
) blockade on the development of alcoholic cardiomyopathy.

Methods and Results—

We serially evaluated left ventricular (LV) and cardiomyocyte function and the RAS over 6 months in 3 groups of instrumented dogs. Eight animals received alcohol (once per day orally, providing 33% of total daily caloric intake); 6 received alcohol and irbesartan (5 mg · kg
−1
· d
−1
PO); and 8 were controls. Compared with controls, alcohol ingestion caused sustained RAS activation with progressive increases in plasma levels of Ang II, renin activity, LV angiotensin-converting enzyme activity, and LV myocyte Ang II AT
1
receptor expression. The RAS activation was followed by a progressive fall in LV contractility (E
ES
, alcohol-fed dogs 3.9±0.8 versus control dogs 8.1±1.0 mm Hg/mL); reductions in the peak velocity of myocyte shortening (78.9±5.1 versus 153.9±6.2 μm/s) and relengthening; and decreased peak systolic Ca
2+
transient ([Ca
2+
]
iT
) and L-type Ca
2+
current (
I
Ca,L
;
P
<0.05). Irbesartan prevented the alcohol-induced decreases in LV and myocyte contraction, relaxation, peak [Ca
2+
]
iT
, and
I
Ca,L
. With alcohol plus irbesartan, plasma Ang II, cardiac angiotensin-converting enzyme activity, and AT
1
remained close to control values.

Conclusions—

Chronic alcohol consumption produces RAS activation followed by progressive cardiac dysfunction. The cardiac dysfunction is prevented by AT
1
receptor blockade.
Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia in Patients Referred for Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Authors: Sauer William H. , Alonso Concepcion , Zado Erica , Cooper Joshua M. , Lin David , Dixit Sanjay , Russo Andrea , Verdino Ralph , Ji Sen , Gerstenfeld Edward P. , Callans David J. , Marchlinski Francis E.
Published: July 2006

Background—

Although the most common sites of atrial ectopy that trigger atrial fibrillation (AF) are in or around the pulmonary veins (PVs), atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) can also cause or coexist with AF. We sought to characterize patients with AF and AVNRT and assess clinical outcomes after ablation.

Methods and Results—

To determine the prevalence of concomitant AVNRT and AF, 629 consecutive patients referred for catheter ablation between November 1998 and March 2005 were studied. Electrophysiological studies with programmed stimulation during isoproterenol infusion identified atrial ectopy that initiated AF and the presence of inducible AVNRT. AF ablation consisted of proximal isolation of PVs and elimination of any non-PV trigger of AF, including AVNRT. There were 27 patients (4.3%) who had inducible AVNRT at the time of AF ablation. Of these, 13 underwent AVNRT ablation without PV isolation. Compared with the rest of the cohort, patients with AVNRT and AF were younger at the time of symptom onset (age 36.8±13.8 versus 48.2±11.7 years;
P
<0.01). Freedom from AF with or without previously ineffective antiarrhythmic medication was similar in both groups (96.3% versus 90.7%; mean follow-up 21.4±9.4 months); however, patients with AVNRT targeted for ablation were more likely to be AF free while not taking any antiarrhythmic medication after a single procedure during the follow-up period (87.5% versus 54.7%;
P
<0.01) and had fewer complications (0% versus 2.5%;
P
=0.30). Twelve of the 13 patients who underwent slow-pathway ablation without left atrial ablation remained AF free without the need for antiarrhythmic medication after a single procedure.

Conclusions—

AVNRT is an uncommon AF trigger seen more frequently in younger patients. Ablation of AVNRT in patients with AF was associated with improved outcomes compared with those with other triggers of AF.
Zur Neuübersetzung des Thomasevangeliums in der Alandschen Synopse
Authors: Schüngel Paul
Published: July 2006

Die Überprüfung der neuen Übersetzung zeigt zunächst Folgen einer Fehlübersetzung von kopt. sōk gr. λκω auf (Log 3.1 34 114). Die teils kurze, teils ausführliche Diskussion problematischer Einzelstellen ergibt mehrmals neue Übersetzungsvorschläge, die den koptischen Textbestand festhalten oder besser erklären, bisherige Emendationen werden überflüssig.—Das EvThom wird vorgestellt als christliche Schrift, die eine jesuanisch inspirierte, die Außenwelt radikal distanzierende Ethik vertritt und ein selbständig-verantwortliches, tapferes und “männliches” Leben fördern will.
Das Weltgericht und die Matthäische Gemeinde
Authors: Suh Joong Suk
Published: July 2006

The Matthean community consists of two groups which are symbolized by sheep and goats respectively. In Matt. 25:31-46 the least of these are not the poor in general, but those who are in the mission fields sent out by the Matthean community. Determining that the unsuccessful result of the missionary works was due to the insufficient support from the community, Matthew attempts to elicit a strong concern among them. Hence, the Matthean Jesus, who identifies with the missionary team at the brink of collapse, encourages the sheep group to maximize its ongoing support for the least, and warns the goats group not to be indifferent to them.
The Written Torah and the Oral Gospel: Romans 10:5-13 in the Dynamic Tension between Orality and Literacy
Authors: Ito Akio
Published: July 2006

This article attempts to locate Rom. 10:5-13 within the tension of orality and literacy. There has been a debate concerning the precise nature of the relationship between Lev. 18:5 cited in 10:5 and Deut. 30 cited in 10:6-8. Here it is argued that Paul emphasizes the antithesis between the orality of the Gospel and the literacy of the Torah because he understands himself as living and working in the tradition of the “herald” of Isaiah 52. Against the orality of the Gospel he stresses the literacy of the Torah when he introduces the Leviticus citation with “Moses writes” in 10:5.
CO2 Sensitivity of Extreme Climate Events in the Western United States
Authors: Bell Jason L. , Sloan Lisa C.
Published: July 2006

Based upon trends in observed climate, extreme events are thought to be increasing in frequency and/or magnitude. This change in extreme events is attributed to enhancement of the hydrologic cycle caused by increased greenhouse gas concentrations. Results are presented of relatively long (50 yr) regional climate model simulations of the western United States examining the sensitivity of climate and extreme events to a doubling of preindustrial atmospheric CO2 concentrations. These results indicate a shift in the temperature distribution, resulting in fewer cold days and more hot days; the largest changes occur at high elevations. The rainfall distribution is also affected; total rain increases as a result of increases in rainfall during the spring season and at higher elevations. The risk of flooding is generally increased, as is the severity of droughts and heat waves. These results, combined with results of decreased snowpack and increased evaporation, could further stress the water supply of the western United States.
Alliance Formation and Conflict Initiation: The Missing Link
Authors: Kimball Anessa L.
Published: July 2006

Existing research on the connection between alliance formation and conflict initiation has explicitly focused on the direct effect of alliances on conflict by including some measure of alliance behavior as an independent variable in models of conflict behavior. Existing research misspecifies the relationship between alliances and conflict, because alliance formation and conflict initiation are shaped by many of the same factors (in particular, regime type and capabilities), and alliance formation decisions are endogenous to conflict initiation decisions. Thus, alliance formation and conflict initiation should be modeled in a system of equations where a set of variables shapes alliance formation and conflict directly, and indirectly affects conflict through the decision to ally. The author estimates a two-equation probit model that accounts for the endogenous nature of alliance formation decisions and, thus, for the indirect effects of variables like regime and power on conflict. Results suggest that the effect of regime on alliance behavior differs across time periods. Finally, the model provides evidence that the total effects of variables like power and regime on conflict are, in fact, mediated by how those variables influence the decision to ally.
External Threat and Democracy: The Role of NATO Revisited
Authors: Gibler Douglas M. , Sewell Jamil A.
Published: July 2006

This article examines the role of NATO in aiding democratic transitions and survival in the former Soviet republics. The authors argue that the level of external threat is a determining factor in centralization, militarization, and ultimately regime type. States tend to be democratic or are likely to make the transition toward democracy when threat levels are low, while autocracies are more likely to be found in states targeted by higher levels of threat. Building on recent findings examining the link between democracies and alliance, the authors demonstrate that NATO has been an effective guarantor of territorial sovereignty and independence in the Baltic states, Ukraine, and Moldova, reducing the level of threat experienced by each state, thus assuring the survival of decentralized and democratic governments. Former Soviet republics targeted by high levels of threat have reverted to or maintained centralized, autocratic forms of government.
School Performance in Childhood and Adolescence as a Predictor of Depressive Symptoms in Adulthood
Authors: Lehtinen Henri , Räikkönen Katri , Heinonen Kati , Raitakari Olli T. , Keltikangas-Järvinen Liisa
Published: July 2006

The current study examined whether school performance in childhood and adolescence predicts depressive symptoms in adulthood over 12 to 21 years. Questionnaires measuring grade point average (GPA), having remedial education or incurring penalties during the current school term were obtained from parents when the participants were aged 9, 12 and 15. Depressive symptoms were selfrated by the participants 12 ( n = 971), 17 ( n = 990) and 21 ( n = 955) years later at ages 21 to 36. The results yielded no systematic associations between indices of school performance and later depressive symptoms across the age cohorts, genders and follow-ups. A lower GPA predicted depressive symptoms in the 12- and 15-year-old girls 12 and/or 17 years later; remedial education predicted depressive symptoms 21 years later in the 9-year-old girls, and 12 and 17 years later in the 9-year-old boys. The results suggest that the association between school performance and depression may not be straightforward and potentially involves other psychological mechanisms.
Incidence and Teachers' Perceived Causation of Depression in Primary School Children in Greece
Authors: Kleftaras George , Didaskalou Eleni
Published: July 2006

Emotional difficulties, and especially depressive symptomatology, constitute a serious and relatively frequent childhood problem which are often overlooked. Teachers' responses to pupils' depression seem to be related to their understanding concerning the causes of this problem. Thus, the aims of the present research are: (a) to estimate the proportion of pupils displaying depressive symptomatology; (b) to examine teachers' readiness and ability to identify those pupils; (c) to search for teachers' perceptions concerning the causation of pupils' behavioural-emotional problems including depression and (d) to explore the differences between younger and older teachers' causal attributions. The sample consisted of 323 pupils from the fifth to sixth grades and their teachers, in the area of Volos, Greece. Pupils completed the Children's Depression Inventory, while their teachers completed a questionnaire concerning their perceptions of the incidence and causes of their students' emotional-behavioural problems and depressive symptoms. The results indicate that approximately 30 percent of the students indicated a high level of depressive symptoms, while their teachers seemed to lack readiness and skills for identifying this; they reported more often behaviour problems and tended to attribute students' difficulties to factors lying outside the school context. Implications are discussed in terms of developments in teachers' training and policies leading to greater support for pupils experiencing depressive symptoms.
Social Preference, Perceived Popularity and Social Intelligence
Authors: Andreou Eleni
Published: July 2006

Relations among social preference, perceived popularity, social intelligence and two types of aggressive behaviour were studied. Peer-estimation techniques were used to measure all major variables. Altogether, 403 Greek schoolchildren from fourth-through sixth-grade classrooms participated in the study. Both overt and relational aggression were negatively associated with social preference for girls; overt aggression was positively associated with perceived popularity for boys. Relational aggression was positively associated with perceived popularity for both boys and girls, and social information processing only for girls. In addition, as was hypothesized, relational aggression was predicted by cognitive aspects of social intelligence whereas overt aggression by lack of social skills. Overt aggression was found to be a unique significant negative predictor of perceived popularity whereas relational aggression a positive predictor. Implications for intervention are discussed.
Goals and Personality in Adolescents
Authors: Sanz de Acedo Lizarraga M. L. , Ugarte M. D. , Lumbreras M. Victoria , Sanz de Acedo Baquedano M. T.
Published: July 2006

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of personality factors in the value allotted by adolescents to various groups of goals. For this purpose, the ‘Cuestionario de Personalidad Situacional, CPS’ (Situational Personality Questionnaire) and the ‘Cuestionario de Metas para Adolescentes, CMA’ (Goals for Adolescents Questionnaire) were administered to a representative sample from the province of Navarra, Spain, made up of 1179 adolescents (565 girls and 614 boys), ages between 15 and 19 years old, from public and affiliated school centres and from various socioeconomic levels. After performing a principal components factor analysis on the CPS data, the results revealed that, to a great extent, personality factors – Adjustment, Emotivity, Superiority, Independence and Sociability – predict goals pursued by adolescents.
Ultrasound-Guided Sclerosis of Neovessels in Painful Chronic Patellar Tendinopathy
Authors: Hoksrud Aasne , Öhberg Lars , Alfredson Håkan , Bahr Roald
Published: July 2006

Background

Color Doppler ultrasound examination frequently reveals neovascularization in chronic painful Achilles and patellar tendinopathy. Sclerosing the area with vascular ingrowth using polidocanol has shown promising clinical results in patients with Achilles tendinopathy.

Purpose

To investigate sclerosing treatment using polidocanol on a group of elite athletes with patellar tendinopathy.

tudy Design

Randomized controlled trial/cross-over study; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods

The authors recruited 33 patients (42 tendons), mainly from the Norwegian elite divisions in basketball, team handball, and volleyball. Seventeen patients (23 knees) were randomized to the treatment group (polidocanol injections in the area of neovascularization) and 16 patients (20 knees) to the control group (similar injections with lidocaine/epinephrine). After 4 months of treatment, the control group was crossed over to active treatment. Pain and function were recorded using the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment score before the start of treatment and 4, 8, and 12 months after the first injection. Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment scores between groups were compared using multivariate analysis of variance for repeated measures.

Results

The treatment group reported a significant improvement in Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment score from 51 to 62 after 4 months; there was no change for the control group (group by time interaction, P=. 052). After 8 months, when the control group had also received active treatment with polidocanol, they had a greater improvement in Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment score (58-79) than did the treatment group (54-70; group by time interaction, P=. 022; time effect, P<. 0001). There was no further time or group effect in Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment score to the 12-month follow-up (treatment, 72; control, 85).

Conclusion

Sclerosing injections with polidocanol resulted in a significant improvement in knee function and reduced pain in patients with patellar tendinopathy.
The Modified Docking Procedure for Elbow Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Paletta George A. , Wright Rick W.
Published: July 2006

Background

Ulnar collateral ligament injury is most common in the overhead-throwing athlete. Jobe et al published the first report of ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction in throwing athletes with a 62.5% success rate. Recently, Altchek developed a new docking technique for reconstruction of the ulnar collateral ligament. The authors report the first series using a further modification of the docking technique using a 4-strand palmaris longus graft for reconstruction of the ulnar collateral ligament.

Hypothesis

The modified docking technique yields a high rate of successful return to preinjury level of competition in elite baseball players.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed 25 elite professional or scholarship collegiate baseball players who underwent elbow ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction using the modified docking procedure with a minimum 2-year follow-up.

Results

Twenty-three of 25 (92%) were able to return to their preinjury levels of competition. The mean time to return was 11.5 months (range, 10-16 months). Complications included 1 transient postoperative ulnar nerve neurapraxia and 1 stress fracture of the ulnar bone bridge that occurred at 14 months postoperatively, after a full return to pitching.

Conclusion

The modified docking technique yields highly successful return to preinjury level of competition rates (92%) in a select group of elite baseball players.
Promoting Smoking Cessation Among the Elderly
Authors: Abdullah Abu Saleh M. , Ho Lai-Ming , Kwan Yam H. , Cheung W. L. , McGhee S. M. , Chan W. H.
Published: July 2006

Purpose: To assess the predictors of smoking cessation and intention to quit among the Chinese elderly smokers. Design: A cross-sectional survey of elderly smokers. Setting: Shamsuipo district, Hong Kong. Subject: A total of 1,318 elderly were interviewed (response rate = 83%). Measures: A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The questionnaire sought information on the subject's sociodemographic background and smoking habits. The predictors for successful quitting and intention to quit were assessed by chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression. Results: Of the respondents, 20.2% were current smokers, 25.4% were ex-smokers, and 54.4% were never smokers. Of the smoker (current and ex-smokers) respondents, 55.7% (335/601) had successfully quit at the time of enumeration. The predictors of quitting were living with others, receiving assistance for mobility, being nondrinkers, smoking for shorter duration, and smoking more cigarettes per day. Having health problems in the past, smoking for shorter duration, and smoking fewer cigarettes per day were predictors of intention to quit smoking. Conclusion:The study identified several predictors of successful quitting that could help improve the provision of current smoking cessation services. Population-based smoking cessation programs, especially those targeted to elderly, should take these predictors into consideration in the design of interventions.
The Burden of Selected Diseases Among Older People in Denmark
Authors: Brønnum-Hansen Henrik , Juel Knud , Davidsen Michael
Published: July 2006

Objective: The study evaluated the health impact of specific diseases. Method: Life tables and health survey data are combined to estimate expected lifetime with and without long-standing illness. We compared estimates based on observed rates of mortality and prevalence of illness with those based on hypothetical rates from which a specific disease has been eliminated. Results: Life expectancy would increase by 4.0 years for 65-year-olds if circulatory diseases are eliminated, and the proportion of expected lifetime without long-standing, limiting illness would increase from 59.2% to 66.5% for men and from 52.2% to 55.6% for women. Elimination of musculoskeletal diseases would not change life expectancy but would increase the proportion of expected lifetime without long-standing illness. Conclusions: Because of comorbidity, more years of illness are to be expected if lethal diseases are to be eliminated. Elimination of nonfatal diseases would mainly transfer years with long-standing illness to years without illness.