bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alterations in mitochondrial respiratory function in response to endurance training and endurance racing
Authors: VOTION D.‐M. , FRAIPONT A. , GOACHET A. G. , ROBERT C. , Van ERCK E. , AMORY H. , CEUSTERS J. , De La REBIÈRE de POUYADE G. , FRANCK T. , MOUITHYS‐MICKALAD A. , NIESTEN A. , SERTEYN D.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:Limited information exists about the muscle mitochondrial respiratory function changes that occur in horses during an endurance season.

Objectives:To determine effects of training and racing on muscle oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and electron transport system (ETS) capacities in horses with high resolution respirometry (HRR).

Methods:Mitochondrial respiration was measured in microbiopsies taken from thetriceps brachii(tb) andgluteus medius(gm) muscles in 8 endurance horses (7 purebred Arabians and 1 crossbred Arabian) before training (T0), after two 10 week training periods (T1, T2) and after 2 CEI** endurance races (R1, R2). Muscle OXPHOS capacity was determined using 2 titration protocols without (SUIT 1) or with pyruvate (SUIT 2) as substrate. Electrons enter at the level of Complex I, Complex II or both complexes simultaneously (Complexes I+II). Muscle ETS capacity was obtained by uncoupling Complexes I+II sustained respiration.

Results:T1 improved OXPHOS and ETS capacities in thetbas demonstrated by the significant increase of oxygen fluxes vs. T0 (Complex I: +67%; ETS: +37%). Training improved only OXPHOS in thegm(Complex I: +34%). Among horses that completed the race, a significant decrease in OXPHOS (Complex I: ∼−35%) and ETS (−22%) capacities was found in thetbwith SUIT 2 indicating a reduced aerobic glycolysis. Significant correlations between CK activities and changes in OXPHOS were found suggesting a relationship between exercise‐induced muscle damage and depression of mitochondrial respiration.

Conclusions:For the first time, OXPHOS and ETS capacities in equine muscle at different steps of an endurance season have been determined by HRR. Significant alterations in mitochondrial respiratory function in response to endurance training and endurance racing have been observed although these changes appeared to be muscle group specific.
Modeling Subcooled Flow Film Boiling in a Vertical Tube
Authors: El Nakla Meamer , Groeneveld D. C. , Cheng Shui-Chih
Published: November 2010

A two-fluid one-dimensional model has been developed to predict the wall temperature of an internally heated tube during inverted annular flow film boiling (IAFB). The model is derived using basic conservation equations of mass, momentum, and energy. To simplify the derivation of the constitutive heat transfer relations, flow between two parallel plates is assumed. The model features shear stress and interfacial relations that make it accurately predict the parametric effects and heat transfer characteristics of IAFB over a wide range of flow conditions. The model predicts wall temperatures of R-134a-cooled tubes with an average error of −1.21% and a rms error of 6.37%. This corresponds to average and rms errors in predicted heat transfer coefficients of 1.33% and 10.07%, respectively. Using water data, the model predicts wall temperatures with an average error of −1.76% and a rms error of 7.78%, which corresponds to average and rms errors in predicted heat transfer coefficients of 4.16% and 15.06%, respectively.
45 nm hp line/space patterning into a thin spin coat film by UV nanoimprint based on condensation
Authors: Hiroshima Hiroshi , Wang Qing , Youn Sung-Won
Published: November 2010

Applicability of UV nanoimprint based on gas condensation to 45 nm line and space (L/S) patterning using a spin-coat UV curable resin was evaluated. Although high capillary pressure is generated in such fine L/S patterns when UV curable resin liquid comes in contact with the groove surface, the trapped air in those grooves is not completely compressed and results in the formation of bubble defects. Bubbles much larger than the pattern size were generated at the middle of the L/S patterns for a 108 nm thick, UV curable resin film, and incomplete filling may occur on a large area of the L/S patterns for a 19 nm thick film. Since nearly bubble-free L/S patterns have been fabricated for 48 nm thick, UV curable resin film, it might be possible to make bubble-free UV nanoimprint by prolonging the imprinting time. On the contrary, when UV nanoimprint was carried out in pentafluoropropane (PFP), no bubbles were created for all thicknesses of the UV curable resin films. Uniformity of residual layer looked quite good judging from the color uniformity of the area around the L/S patterns. It was found, from the residual layer measurement by a reflective thickness monitor, that bubble-free UV nanoimprint was carried out with a residual layer thickness of 15.2 nm. UV nanoimprinted samples were inspected with a scanning electron microscope and it was verified that UV nanoimprint using PFP is viable for the fabrication 45 nm L/S patterns.
The Anti-Arthritic Effects of Synthetic Melittin on the Complete Freund's Adjuvant-Induced Rheumatoid Arthritis Model in Rats
Authors: Li Jinghua , Ke Tao , He Chao , Cao Wei , Wei Mengqi , Zhang Lei , Zhang Jin-Xia , Wang Wen , Ma Jing , Wang Zong-Ren , Shao Zhong-Jun
Published: November 2010

Bee venom (BV) has been used for millennia in Chinese traditional medicine to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, its components and mechanism remain unclear, which has hampered its development and application for the treatment of RA. In this study, we examined the anti-arthritis effects of melittin, which composes nearly 50% of the dry weight of whole BV, on the complete Freund's adjuvant-induced (CFA-induced) RA model in rats. The RA animal models were treated with solutions of BV, melittin, and saline by injection into a specific acupoint (Zusanli). The BV and melittin treatments statistically diminished the thickness of the arthroses in the injected side of the paw, compared to the saline treatment. Melittin therapy also significantly reduced arthritis-induced nociceptive behaviors, as assessed by the thermal hyperalgesia test. In addition, CFA-induced Fos expression in the superficial layer of the lumbar spinal cord was significantly suppressed by the BV and melittin treatments, compared to the saline treatment. These results indicate that melittin is an effective anti-arthritis component of whole bee venom, making it a promising candidate as an anti-arthritis drug.
Improvement on Lipid Metabolic Disorder by 3′-Deoxyadenosine in High-Fat-Diet-Induced Fatty Mice
Authors: Niu Ya-Jing , Tao Rong-Ya , Liu Qian , Tian Jin-Ying , Ye Fei , Zhu Ping , Zhu Hai-Bo
Published: November 2010

This study explores the effects of 3′-deoxyadenosine, a compound from Cordyceps militaris, on lipid metabolic disorder induced by a high-fat-diet in C57BL/6 mice. These mice had an obese body, lipid metabolic disorder and insulin resistance and were treated orally with 100 mg/kg/day 3′-deoxyadenosine (DA), 15 mg/kg/day rosiglitazone and 150 mg/kg/day fenofibrate, respectively. Compared to the model mice, the body weight gain in DA-treated mice were decreased by 66.5%, serum triglyceride and total cholesterol levels were decreased by 20.7% and 16.7%, respectively, and the triglyceride content in the skeletal muscle was reduced by 41.2%. This treatment also had a significant effect on insulin resistance. In DA-treated mice, the serum insulin levels and homeostasis model assessment of the insulin resistance index were decreased by 30% and 46%, respectively, and the areas under the glucose-time curve were depressed by 18% in the insulin tolerance test and by 21.5% in the oral glucose tolerance test. Finally, the value of glucose infusion rates and insulin induced-glucose uptake into the skeletal muscle in the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp test were increased by 18% and 41%, respectively, compared to those in the model mice. This data suggests that the effects of DA on lipid metabolic disorder induced by a high-fat-diet may be linked to its improvement on insulin resistance, especially concerning the increase of insulin sensitivity in the skeletal muscle.
Effects of Berberine on Expression of LOX-1 and SR-BI in Human Macrophage-Derived Foam Cells Induced by ox-LDL
Authors: Guan Siming , Wang Bin , Li Wei , Guan Jinghuan , Fang Xin
Published: November 2010

This study investigates the effects of beriberine on the expression of lectin-like ox-LDL receptor-1 (LOX-1), scavenger receptor A (SR-A), SR class B type I (SR-BI) and ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) in human macrophage-derived foam cells induced by ox-LDL. Different concentrations of Berberine were co-cultured with THP-1 derived foam cells. The mRNA and protein expressions of LOX-1, SR-A, SR-BI and ABCA1 were determined by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. Ox-LDL significantly increased the expression of LOX-1 and inhibited the expression of SR-BI in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Berberine significantly inhibited the effects of ox-LDL in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Moreover, ox-LDL significantly promoted ABCA1 expression. However, berberine had no effect on SR-A or ABCA1 expression. Berberine can inhibit the expression of LOX-1 and promote the expression of SR-BI in macrophage-derived foam cells. Therefore, berberine could be used to treat atherosclerotic diseases.
Letter to the Editor: Panaxadiol's Anticancer Activity is Enhanced by Epicatechin
Authors: Rodriguez Miguel , Du Guang-Jian , Wang Chong-Zhi , Yuan Chun-Su
Published: November 2010

We previously reported the antiproliferative effect of panaxadiol (PD), an active compound in steamed ginseng, on human HCT-116 colorectal cancer cells, and that antioxidants might play a role in this effect. In this study, we observed that PD's antiproliferative effect was significantly enhanced by epicatechin (EC), a strong natural antioxidant in grape seed. Evidence for the synergistic antiproliferative effect was supported by the remarkable increase in the number of apoptotic cells.
EVALUATIONS OF THE TWISTED ALEXANDER POLYNOMIALS OF 2-BRIDGE KNOTS AT ±1
Authors: HIRASAWA MIKAMI , MURASUGI KUNIO
Published: November 2010

Let H(p) be the set of 2-bridge knots K(r), 0<r<1, such that there is a meridian-preserving epimorphism from G(K(r)), the knot group, to G(K(1/p)) with p odd. Then there is an algebraic integer s0such that for any K(r) in H(p), G(K(r)) has a parabolic representation ρ into SL(2, ℤ[s0]) ⊂SL(2, ℂ). Let [Formula: see text] be the twisted Alexander polynomial associated to ρ. Then we prove that for any K(r) in H(p), [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text], μ ∈ ℤ[s0]. The number μ can be recursively evaluated.
THE INVARIANT OF n-PUNCTURED BALL TANGLES
Authors: CHUNG JAE-WOOK
Published: November 2010

Based on the Kauffman bracket at A = eiπ/4, we define an invariant for a special type of n-punctured ball tangles. The invariant Fn takes values in the set PM2 × 2n(ℤ) of 2 × 2n matrices over ℤ modulo the scalar multiplication of ±1. We provide the formula to compute the invariant of the k1 + ⋯ + kn-punctured ball tangle composed of given n, k1, …, kn-punctured ball tangles. Also, we define the horizontal and the vertical connect sums of punctured ball tangles and provide the formulae for their invariants from those of given punctured ball tangles. In addition, we introduce the elementary operations on the class ST of 1-punctured ball tangles, called spherical tangles. The elementary operations on ST induce the operations on PM2 × 2(ℤ), also called the elementary operations. We show that the group generated by the elementary operations on PM2 × 2(ℤ) is isomorphic to a Coxeter group.
Ruthenium porphyrins-catalyzed atom-efficient amination of C-H bonds by arylazides
Authors: Intrieri Daniela , Caselli Alessandro , Ragaini Fabio , Cenini Sergio , Gallo Emma
Published: November 2010

Benzylic amines are synthesized in yield up to 90% by the Ru(TPP)CO -catalyzed amination of both exocyclic and endocyclic benzylic C-H bonds. The choice of arylazides as nitrogen sources confers to the methodology a good sustainability due to the formation of molecular nitrogen as the only stoichiometric by-product. A preliminary mechanistic investigation evidenced a critical role of the hydrocarbon concentration to drive the chemoselectivity of the reaction.
Fault seal calibration: a brief review
Authors: Yielding G. , Bretan P. , Freeman B.
Published: November 2010

Calibration is a necessary step in the workflow for prediction of fault seal because there is no direct way to detect the hydraulic behaviour of a fault at the scale of a hydrocarbon trap. Over the last 20 years two general approaches have been developed:

Measurement of hydraulic properties of fault-zone samples (lab calibration), then mapping these results onto the appropriate parts of trap-bounding faults.

Design of simple algorithms which attempt to capture a salient feature of the fault zone (e.g. CSP, SSF, SGR), then looking at known trap-bounding faults to find a relationship between the algorithm and the presence or capacity of a seal (sub-surface calibration).

Seal capacity is typically described by Hg–air threshold pressure in the lab or static pressure differences in the subsurface (e.g. hydrocarbon buoyancy pressure). In addition to likely interpretation and geometry errors in approaches (i) and (ii), further uncertainty is introduced when converting the calibrated seal strength to potential hydrocarbon column height, because of the variability of subsurface hydrocarbon fluids (interfacial tension). Despite these potential problems, the different methodologies typically agree reasonably well in their predictions for fault-seal capacity. However, this agreement may be largely coincidental and is likely to be a response to the heterogeneity of fault-zone structure (especially at intermediate ‘compositions’ or SGR).
An uncertainty modelling workflow for structurally compartmentalized reservoirs
Authors: Irving A. D. , Chavanne E. , Faure V. , Buffet P. , Barber E.
Published: November 2010

Despite their significance, structural parameters are sometimes neglected in assessments of uncertainty on connected volumes and forecast production for compartmentalized reservoirs. A workflow is proposed for modelling multiple realizations of fault geometry and properties using 3D geomodelling software. Geometrical parameters that may be simulated include fault and horizon shape and location, fault displacement and fault pattern, while property variables include fault permeability, thickness and clay smears. Realizations are ranked by estimated connected volume, with selected models being exported for numerical flow simulation. Experimental design is used to assess sensitivity of forecast production and pressure to different parameters. The workflow is illustrated using a North Sea reservoir, in which structural heterogeneities cause considerable uncertainty on connected volumes, with implications for history matching and infill well planning. Fault geometry and permeability were the most important properties for all studied responses, however their relative significance could vary between early and late field life. A number of improvements are proposed, chiefly in the areas of connected volume estimation, handling of uncertain grid geometries and calculation of stress- or saturation-dependent fault permeabilities. Finally, the method can be integrated with conventional sedimentary and petrophysical uncertainties to investigate interactions and relative sensitivities with regard to structural parameters.
The challenges and impact of compartmentalization in reservoir appraisal and development
Authors: Fox R. J. , Bowman M. B. J.
Published: November 2010

As an industry we have been poor at identifying and predicting the effect of reservoir compartmentalization on fluid flow throughout field life. In the context of harder-to-find reserves and rising development costs it is vital to have a well-rounded strategy in place to identify and mitigate uncertainties and risks associated with compartmentalization. The key challenge of today is therefore to improve predictive capability.

Historically we have relied too heavily on ‘single complex’ linear modelling approaches to understand the impact of compartmentalization. Lately, we have begun to place a greater emphasis on using a forensic level of reservoir analysis coupled with the use of dynamic signals from production data and constant down hole monitoring of fluid-type, pressures and temperatures. Evidence is mounting that as fields deplete they evolve mechanically over production time-scales leading to changes in fault behaviour, stress configuration, compaction and hence compartmentalization; such factors are commonly not predicted at start-up. Our challenge has been to develop toolkits and workflows which integrate an appropriate range of geological models iteratively coupled with dynamic data. We need to develop analytical approaches that enable real-time updates from the evolving reservoir & fluid system to iteratively modify our models and improve their predictive power. This will allow us to make better-informed decisions at every stage of field life.
Sedimentological control of fluid flow in deep marine turbidite reservoirs: Pierce Field, UK Central North Sea
Authors: Scott E. D. , Gelin F. , Jolley S. J. , Leenaarts E. , Sadler S. P. , Elsinger R. J.
Published: November 2010

The Pierce Field in the Central UK North Sea is a twin diapir structure that produces from the Paleocene Forties Sandstone Member (Forties Sandstone). Different hydrocarbon–water contacts encountered in the wells around both diapirs have been variously ascribed to a hydrodynamically tilted oil–water contact or else some form of stepped (compartmentalized) contact. Recent reinterpretation of the structure, sedimentology and fluid geochemistry has indicated that the stratigraphic architecture of the reservoir is the prime control on fluid flow over both geological and production time-scales. These depositional architectures deflect the hydrodynamic flow of aquifer water around the field, resulting in a modified-tilted-contact. The same depositional architectures control the flow of fluids under production. The Forties Sandstone was emplaced by turbidity flows influenced by pre-existing seafloor topography that funneled the flows into discrete sediment corridors and into the Pierce area. The rising twin diapirs further influenced the flows by forming: (a) a small salt withdrawal basin between the diapirs that captured sediment; and (b) enough seafloor topography to prevent the bulk of the flows from depositing significant amounts of sand over the crest of the diapirs. Because the bulk of the high permeability sands were deposited in a rim around the diapirs, the aquifer and injected water does not always flow to structurally higher elevations, but follows the geometry of the channelized sands. While faults are present on both South and North Pierce, they are not extensive and do not appear to play a major role in the compartmentalization of the field. From production data, pressure communication can be inferred around North Pierce and around the majority of South Pierce, the main exception being a block bound by large throw faults in the SE of the southern diapir. Geochemical fingerprinting of the hydrocarbons in Pierce shows families of oils that suggest that the northern and southern parts of the reservoir are separate oil compartments, which is a result of the interaction of the filling history and the stratigraphic and structural architecture of the reservoir.
Femtosecond Laser‐Induced Formation of Gold‐Rich Nanoalloys from the Aqueous Mixture of Gold‐Silver Ions
Authors: Herbani Yuliati , Nakamura Takahiro , Sato Shunichi
Published: November 2010

The synthesis of gold‐silver (AuAg) nanoalloys of various compositions has been performed by direct irradiation of highly intense femtosecond laser pulse in the presence of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). The mixture of Au and Ag ions of low concentration was simply introduced into a glass vial and subjected to femtosecond laser pulses for several minutes. The AuAg nanoalloys of 2‐3 nm with reasonably narrow size distribution were formed, and the position of the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) increased monotonically with an increase in the gold molar fraction in the ion solutions. The high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) images exhibited the absence of core‐shell structures, and the energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis confirmed that the particles were Au‐rich alloys even for the samples with large fraction of Ag+ ions fed in the solution mixture. The formation mechanism of the alloy nanoparticles in the high intensity optical field was also discussed.
The Robust Pole Assignment Problem for Second‐Order Systems
Authors: Liu Hao
Published: November 2010

Pole assignment problems are special algebraic inverse eigenvalue problems. In
this paper, we research numerical methods of the robust pole assignment problem for second‐order systems. The problem is formulated as an optimization problem. Depending upon whether the prescribed eigenvalues are real or complex, we separate
the discussion into two cases and propose two algorithms for solving this problem. Numerical examples show that the problem of the robust eigenvalue assignment for the quadratic pencil can be solved effectively.
Cancer Stem Cells in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Monroe Marcus M. , Anderson Eric C. , Clayburgh Daniel R. , Wong Melissa H.
Published: November 2010

Accumulating evidence suggests that self-renewal and differentiation capabilities reside only in a subpopulation of tumor cells, termed cancer stem cells (CSCs), whereas the remaining tumor cell population lacks the ability to initiate tumor development or support continued tumor growth. In head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), as with other malignancies, cancer stem cells have been increasingly shown to have an integral role in tumor initiation, disease progression, metastasis and treatment resistance. In this paper we summarize the current knowledge of the role of CSCs in HNSCC and discuss the therapeutic implications and future directions of this field.
A Viscosity of Cesàro Mean Approximation Methods for a Mixed Equilibrium, Variational Inequalities, and Fixed Point Problems
Authors: Jitpeera Thanyarat , Katchang Phayap , Kumam Poom
Published: November 2010

We introduce a new iterative method for finding a common element of the set of solutions for mixed equilibrium problem, the set of solutions of the variational inequality for a "Equation missing"-inverse-strongly monotone mapping, and the set of fixed points of a family of finitely nonexpansive mappings in a real Hilbert space by using the viscosity and Cesàro mean approximation method. We prove that the sequence converges strongly to a common element of the above three sets under some mind conditions. Our results improve and extend the corresponding results of Kumam and Katchang (2009), Peng and Yao (2009), Shimizu and Takahashi (1997), and some authors.
Subliminal Cues While Teaching: HCI Technique for Enhanced Learning
Authors: Chalfoun Pierre , Frasson Claude
Published: November 2010

This paper presents results from an empirical study conducted with a subliminal teaching technique aimed at enhancing learner's performance in Intelligent Systems through the use of physiological sensors. This technique uses carefully designed subliminal cues (positive) and miscues (negative) and projects them under the learner's perceptual visual threshold. A positive cue, called answer cue, is a hint aiming to enhance the learner's inductive reasoning abilities and projected in a way to help them figure out the solution faster but more importantly better. A negative cue, called miscue, is also used and aims at obviously at the opposite (distract the learner or lead them to the wrong conclusion). The latest obtained results showed that only subliminal cues, not miscues, could significantly increase learner performance and intuition in a logic-based problem-solving task. Nonintrusive physiological sensors (EEG for recording brainwaves, blood volume pressure to compute heart rate and skin response to record skin conductivity) were used to record affective and cerebral responses throughout the experiment. The descriptive analysis, combined with the physiological data, provides compelling evidence for the positive impact of answer cues on reasoning and intuitive decision making in a logic-based problem-solving paradigm.
Risk Factors for Lymphedema after Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Norman Sandra A. , Localio A. Russell , Kallan Michael J. , Weber Anita L. , Simoes Torpey Heather A. , Potashnik Sheryl L. , Miller Linda T. , Fox Kevin R. , DeMichele Angela , Solin Lawrence J.
Published: November 2010

Background: As cancer treatments evolve, it is important to reevaluate their effect on lymphedema risk in breast cancer survivors.

Methods: A population-based random sample of 631 women from metropolitan Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, diagnosed with incident breast cancer in 1999 to 2001, was followed for 5 years. Risk factor information was obtained by questionnaire and medical record review. Lymphedema was assessed with a validated questionnaire. Using Cox proportional hazards models, we estimated the relative incidence rates [hazard ratios (HR)] of lymphedema with standard adjusted multivariable analyses ignoring interactions, followed by models including clinically plausible treatment interactions.

Results: Compared with no lymph node surgery, adjusted HRs for lymphedema were increased following axillary lymph node dissection [ALND; HR, 2.61; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.77-3.84] but not sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB; HR, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.58-1.88). Risk was not increased following irradiation [breast/chest wall only: HR, 1.18 (95% CI, 0.80-1.73); breast/chest wall plus supraclavicular field (+/− full axilla): HR, 0.86 (95% CI, 0.48-1.54)]. Eighty-one percent of chemotherapy was anthracycline based. The HR for anthracycline chemotherapy versus no chemotherapy was 1.46 (95% CI, 1.04-2.04), persisting after stratifying on stage at diagnosis or number of positive nodes. Treatment combinations involving ALND or chemotherapy resulted in approximately 4- to 5-fold increases in HRs for lymphedema [e.g., HR of 4.16 (95% CI, 1.32-12.45) for SLNB/chemotherapy/no radiation] compared with no treatment.

Conclusion: With standard multivariable analyses, ALND and chemotherapy increased lymphedema risk whereas radiation therapy and SLNB did not. However, risk varied by combinations of exposures.

Impact: Treatment patterns should be considered when counseling and monitoring patients for lymphedema. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2734–46. ©2010 AACR.
Disparities in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Survival among Californians of Asian Ancestry, 1988 to 2007
Authors: Kwong Sandy L. , Stewart Susan L. , Aoki Christopher A. , Chen Moon S.
Published: November 2010

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a significant health disparity affecting Asian Americans, a population comprised of distinct ethnic groups. The purpose of this article is to analyze Californians of Asian ancestry with HCC with respect to socioeconomic status, demographic factors, stage of disease, treatment received, and survival.

Methods: To investigate ethnic differences in survival, we analyzed ethnically disaggregated data from 6,068 Californians of Asian ancestry with HCC diagnosed in 1988 to 2007 and reported to the California Cancer Registry.

Results: Compared with the average of all ethnic groups, cause-specific mortality was significantly higher among Laotian/Hmong [hazard ratio, 2.08; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.78-2.44] and Cambodian patients (hazard ratio, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.06-1.51), groups with higher proportions of their populations at low levels of socioeconomic status; in addition, Laotian/Hmong patients disproportionately presented at later stages of disease, with only 3% receiving local surgical treatment, resection, or liver transplantation. After adjustment for time of diagnosis, age at diagnosis, gender, geographic region, stage at diagnosis, type of surgery, and socioeconomic status, survival disparities remained for both groups (Laotian/Hmong hazard ratio, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.28-1.79; Cambodian hazard ratio, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.03-1.48).

Conclusions: Our hypothesis that survival outcomes would differ by ethnicity was verified.

Impact: Research is needed not only to develop more effective treatments for HCC but also to develop community-based interventions to recruit Asian Americans, particularly Laotian/Hmong and Cambodians, for hepatitis B screening and into medical management to prevent or detect this tumor at an early stage. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2747–57. ©2010 AACR.
Association of the VariantsCASP8D302H andCASP10V410I with Breast and Ovarian Cancer Risk inBRCA1andBRCA2Mutation Carriers
Authors: Engel Christoph , Versmold Beatrix , Wappenschmidt Barbara , Simard Jacques , Easton Douglas F. , Peock Susan , Cook Margaret , Oliver Clare , Frost Debra , Mayes Rebecca , Evans D. Gareth , Eeles Rosalind , Paterson Joan , Brewer Carole , McGuffog Lesley , Antoniou Antonis C. , Stoppa-Lyonnet Dominique , Sinilnikova Olga M. , Barjhoux Laure , Frenay Marc , Michel Cécile , Leroux Dominique , Dreyfus Helene , Toulas Christine , Gladieff Laurence , Uhrhammer Nancy , Bignon Yves-Jean , Meindl Alfons , Arnold Norbert , Varon-Mateeva Raymonda , Niederacher Dieter , Preisler-Adams Sabine , Kast Karin , Deissler Helmut , Sutter Christian , Gadzicki Dorothea , Chenevix-Trench Georgia , Spurdle Amanda B. , Chen Xiaoqing , Beesley Jonathan , Olsson Håkan , Kristoffersson Ulf , Ehrencrona Hans , Liljegren Annelie , van der Luijt Rob B. , van Os Theo A. , van Leeuwen Flora E. , Domchek Susan M. , Rebbeck Timothy R. , Nathanson Katherine L. , Osorio Ana , Ramón y Cajal Teresa , Konstantopoulou Irene , Benítez Javier , Friedman Eitan , Kaufman Bella , Laitman Yael , Mai Phuong L. , Greene Mark H. , Nevanlinna Heli , Aittomäki Kristiina , Szabo Csilla I. , Caldes Trinidad , Couch Fergus J. , Andrulis Irene L. , Godwin Andrew K. , Hamann Ute , Schmutzler Rita K.
Published: November 2010

Background: The genes caspase-8 (CASP8) and caspase-10 (CASP10) functionally cooperate and play a key role in the initiation of apoptosis. Suppression of apoptosis is one of the major mechanisms underlying the origin and progression of cancer. Previous case-control studies have indicated that the polymorphisms CASP8 D302H and CASP10 V410I are associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer in the general population.

Methods: To evaluate whether the CASP8 D302H (CASP10 V410I) polymorphisms modify breast or ovarian cancer risk in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers, we analyzed 7,353 (7,227) subjects of white European origin provided by 19 (18) study groups that participate in the Consortium of Investigators of Modifiers of BRCA1/2 (CIMBA). A weighted cohort approach was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results: The minor allele of CASP8 D302H was significantly associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer (per-allele HR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.76-0.97; Ptrend = 0.011) and ovarian cancer (per-allele HR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.53-0.89; Ptrend = 0.004) for BRCA1 but not for BRCA2 mutation carriers. The CASP10 V410I polymorphism was not associated with breast or ovarian cancer risk for BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation carriers.

Conclusions: CASP8 D302H decreases breast and ovarian cancer risk for BRCA1 mutation carriers but not for BRCA2 mutation carriers.

Impact: The combined application of these and other recently identified genetic risk modifiers could in the future allow better individual risk calculation and could aid in the individualized counseling and decision making with respect to preventive options in BRCA1 mutation carriers. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2859–68. ©2010 AACR.
Hemoglobin and Aerobic Fitness Changes with Supervised Exercise Training in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy
Authors: Dolan Lianne B. , Gelmon Karen , Courneya Kerry S. , Mackey John R. , Segal Roanne J. , Lane Kirstin , Reid Robert D. , McKenzie Donald C.
Published: November 2010

Background: Aerobic exercise training (AET) is known to increase RBC production; however, this has not been evaluated in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy. The purpose of this study was to examine the changes in hemoglobin (Hb) levels in the Supervised Trial of Aerobic versus Resistance Training (START) and to determine its association with changes in VO2peak.

Methods: Two hundred and forty-two breast cancer patients initiating chemotherapy were randomized to usual care (n = 82), resistance exercise (RET, n = 82), or AET (n = 78) groups for the duration of their chemotherapy (median, 17 weeks). Supervised exercise was thrice weekly based on standard AET and RET prescriptions. Aerobic fitness (VO2peak) and Hb concentration were measured at baseline and end of chemotherapy.

Results: Regardless of the exercise group, Hb declined over the course of chemotherapy (13.4 ± 10.0 to 11.8 ± 11.5 g/dL, P < 0.01). Both AET and RET groups had significant, moderate correlations between the change in VO2peak and Hb (AET: r = 0.49, P < 0.001; RET: r = 0.39, P = 0.001).

Conclusion: The results indicate that regular exercise does not protect against the decline in Hb associated with chemotherapy in breast cancer patients, but resulted in a stronger association between Hb and VO2peak.

Impact: Even with the chemotherapy-induced decline in Hb, breast cancer patients can maintain their aerobic capacity by participating in regular aerobic exercise. Further studies are required to determine safe intensity levels that may stimulate the maintenance of Hb levels in breast cancer patients. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2826–32. ©2010 AACR.
Cathepsin B Expression and Survival in Colon Cancer: Implications for Molecular Detection of Neoplasia
Authors: Chan Andrew T. , Baba Yoshifumi , Shima Kaori , Nosho Katsuhiko , Chung Daniel C. , Hung Kenneth E. , Mahmood Umar , Madden Karen , Poss Kirtland , Ranieri Audrey , Shue Daniel , Kucherlapati Raju , Fuchs Charles S. , Ogino Shuji
Published: November 2010

Background and Aims: Proteases play a critical role in tumorigenesis and are upregulated in colorectal cancer and neoplastic polyps. In animal models, cathepsin B (CTSB)–activatable imaging agents show high enzyme activity within intestinal tumors.

Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study of 558 men and women with colon cancer with tumors that were accessible for immunohistochemical assessment. We used Cox proportional hazards models, stratified by stage, to compute colon cancer–specific and overall mortality according to tumoral expression of CTSB.

Results: Among 558 participants, 457 (82%) had tumors that expressed CTSB (CTSB positive) and 101 (18%) had tumors that did not express CTSB (CTSB negative). CTSB expression was not associated with disease stage (P = 0.19). After a median follow-up of 11.6 years, there were 254 total and 155 colon cancer–specific deaths. Compared with participants with CTSB-negative tumors, participants with CTSB-positive tumors experienced a multivariate hazard ratio for colon cancer–specific mortality of 1.99 (95% confidence interval, 1.19-3.34) and overall mortality of 1.71 (95% confidence interval, 1.16-2.50). CTSB expression was independently associated with KRAS (P = 0.01) and BRAF mutation (P = 0.04), but not microsatellite instability status, CpG island methylator phenotype status, PIK3CA mutation, LINE-1 methylation, TP53 expression, or PTGS2 (cyclooxygenase-2) expression. Among 123 individuals with adenomas, 91% expressed CTSB.

Conclusions: As assessed by immunohistochemistry, CTSB is expressed in the vast majority of colon cancers, independent of stage, and is significantly associated with higher risk of colon cancer–specific and overall mortality.

Impact: These results support the potential of CTSB a target for image detection of neoplastic lesions in humans. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2777–85. ©2010 AACR.
Forty Years of Faster Decline in Cigarette Smoking in California Explains Current Lower Lung Cancer Rates
Authors: Pierce John P. , Messer Karen , White Martha M. , Kealey Sheila , Cowling David W.
Published: November 2010

Background: Declining lung cancer rates in California have been attributed to the California Tobacco Control Program, but may reflect earlier declines in smoking.

Methods: Using state-taxed sales and three survey series, we assessed trends in smoking behavior for California and the rest of the nation from 1960 to 2008 and compared these with lung cancer mortality rates. We tested the validity of recent trends in state-taxed sales by projecting results from a model of the 1960 to 2002 data.

Results: From 1960 to 2002, the state-taxed sales and survey data are consistent. Californians initially smoked more than the rest of the nation, but cigarette consumption declined earlier, dropping lower in 1971 with an ever widening gap over time. Lung cancer mortality follows a similar pattern, after a lag of 16 years. Introduction of the California Tobacco Control Program doubled the rate of decline in cigarette consumption. From 2002 to 2008, differences in enforcement and tax evasion may compromise the validity of the taxed sales data. In 2010, smoking prevalence is estimated to be 9.3% in California and 17.8% in the rest of the nation. However, in 2008, for the first time, both cigarette price and tobacco control expenditures were lower in California than the rest of the nation, suggesting that the gap in smoking behavior will start to narrow.

Conclusion: An effective Tobacco Control Program means that California will have faster declines in lung cancer than the rest of the nation for the next 2 decades, but possibly not beyond.

Impact: Tobacco control interventions need further dissemination. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2801–10. ©2010 AACR.
A Case-Control Study on the Effect of Apoliprotein E Genotype on Head and Neck Cancer Risk
Authors: De Feo Emma , Rowell Jessica , Cadoni Gabriella , Nicolotti Nicola , Arzani Dario , Giorgio Arianna , Amore Rosarita , Paludetti Gaetano , Ricciardi Gualtiero , Boccia Stefania
Published: November 2010

Background: The apolipoprotein E gene (apoE) has three major isoforms encoded by the ϵ2, ϵ3, and ϵ4 alleles, with the ϵ4 allele associated with hypercholesterolemia and the ϵ2 allele with the opposite effect. An inverse relationship between cholesterolemia and head and neck cancer (HNC) has been previously reported, although the relationship between apoE genotypes and HNC has not been explored to date.

Methods: Four hundred and seventeen HNC cases and 436 hospital controls were genotyped for apoE polymorphisms. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) from logistic regression were used to explore the relationship between HNC and putative risk factors. A gene-environment interaction analysis was done.

Results: A borderline significant 40% decreased HNC risk (OR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.31-1.05) was observed for individuals carrying at least one ϵ2 allele. Females carrying at least one ϵ2 allele showed a 60% risk reduction (OR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.21-0.90) for HNC compared with ϵ3 homozygotes. A statistically significant interaction was found between alcohol use and the ϵ4 allele (P for interaction = 0.04), with a 2-fold increased risk (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 0.95-4.48) among ever drinkers with an ϵ4 allele, with respect to ϵ3 homozygote nondrinkers.

Conclusions: Our study provides novel evidence of a possible protective effect of the ϵ2 allele against HNC, probably due to its increased antioxidant properties.

Impact: According to our results, apolipoprotein E may play a different role in carcinogenesis other than its well-known role in regulating blood serum cholesterol levels. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2839–46. ©2010 AACR.
Detection of Early-Stage Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Gold David V. , Goggins Michael , Modrak David E. , Newsome Guy , Liu Mengling , Shi Chanjuan , Hruban Ralph H. , Goldenberg David M.
Published: November 2010

Background: Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is an almost universally lethal disease, in large part, due to our inability to detect early-stage disease. Monoclonal antibody PAM4 is reactive with a unique biomarker expressed by >85% of pancreatic adenocarcinomas. In this report, we examined the ability of a PAM4-based immunoassay to detect early-stage disease.

Materials and Methods: The PAM4-based immunoassay was used to quantitate antigen in the serum of healthy volunteers (n = 19), patients with known pancreatic adenocarcinoma (n = 68), and patients with a primary diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis (n = 29).

Results: Sensitivity for detection of pancreatic adenocarcinoma was 82%, with a false-positive rate of 5% for healthy controls. Patients with advanced disease had significantly higher antigen levels than those with early-stage disease (P < 0.01), with a diagnostic sensitivity of 91%, 86%, and 62% for stage 3/stage 4 advanced disease, stage 2, and stage 1, respectively. We also evaluated chronic pancreatitis sera, finding 38% positive for antigen; however, this was discordant with immunohistochemical findings that suggest the PAM4 antigen is not produced by inflamed pancreatic tissue. Furthermore, several of the serum-positive pancreatitis patients, for whom tissue specimens were available for pathologic interpretation, had evidence of neoplastic precursor lesions.

Conclusions: These results suggest the use of the PAM4 serum assay to detect early-stage pancreatic adenocarcinoma and that positive levels of PAM4 antigen are not derived from inflamed pancreatic tissues but rather may provide evidence of subclinical pancreatic neoplasia.

Effect: The ability to detect pancreatic adenocarcinoma at an early stage could provide for early therapeutic intervention with potentially improved patient outcomes. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2786–94. ©2010 AACR.
Factors Associated with the Outcome of Life-Threatening Necrotizing Pneumonia due to Community-Acquired Staphylococcus aureus in Adult and Adolescent Patients
Authors: Li Hong-tao , Zhang Tian-tuo , Huang Jing , Zhou Yu-qi , Zhu Jia-xin , Wu Ben-quan
Published: November 2010

Background: Although community-acquired Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia with highly virulent Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL)-positive strains, a severe disease with significant lethality, is rare, especially in adult and adolescent patients, recent reports highlight that these infections are on the rise. Objectives: To describe the demographic and clinical features of reported cases of life-threatening community-acquired S. aureus pneumonia with usually PVL-positive strains in adult and adolescent patients, to evaluate the variables related to death, and to select a more appropriate antimicrobial treatment for this potentially deadly disease. Methods: We summarized all of the 92 reported cases and our case. The effect of 5 variables on mortality was measured using logistic regression. Results:S. aureus community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) with usually PVL-positive strains is a severe disease with significant lethality, i.e. 42.9%; a short duration of the time from the onset of symptoms to death, i.e. 5.5 ± 10.1 days, and prolonged hospital admissions, i.e. 33.2 ± 29.5 days. Seventy-three cases have been tested for the gene for PVL, and 71 strains have been found to carry the PVL gene. Logistic regression analysis showed that leucopenia (p = 0.002), influenza-like symptoms or laboratory-confirmed influenza (p = 0.011), and hemoptysis (p = 0.024) were the factors associated with death. Antibiotic therapies inhibiting toxin production were associated with an improved outcome in these cases (p = 0.007). Conclusions: Physicians should pay special attention to those patients who acquired severe CAP during influenza season and have flu-like symptoms, hemoptysis, and leucopenia, and they should consider S. aureus more frequently among the possible pathogens of severe CAP. Empiric therapy for severe CAP with this distinct clinical picture should include coverage for S. aureus. Targeted treatment with antimicrobials inhibiting toxin production appears to be a more appropriate selection.
Can High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein and Plasma Homocysteine Levels Independently Predict the Prognosis of Patients with Functional Disability after First-Ever Ischemic Stroke?
Authors: Song In-Uk , Kim Young-Do , Kim Joong-Seok , Lee Kwang-Soo , Chung Sung-Woo
Published: November 2010

Background: The prognosis of functional disability in patients with cerebrovascular disease has not been well established. Therefore, we conducted this study to determine the prognostic significance of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and homocysteine (Hcy) levels in patients with functional disability after acute first-ever ischemic stroke. Method: A total of 309 patients with first-ever stroke were examined within 24 h after symptom onset. Hcy was measured at admission, and hs-CRP measurements were made at admission and on the seventh hospital day. The correlations between the concentration of hs-CRP or Hcy and functional disability at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after stroke onset were analyzed. Results: The present study showed that both hs-CRP values on admission and on the seventh hospital day were significantly correlated with modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores obtained at 4 times after the onset of stroke. These results also demonstrated that mRS scores are more closely associated with hs-CRP values on the seventh hospital day than on admission. However, there was no significant relationship between Hcy and mRS scores during the 12-month follow-up period. Conclusion: According to the present study, we cautiously suggest that hs-CRP values on the subacute phase have sufficient value as a predictor of the prognosis of functional disability after first-ever stroke.
Common Misperceptions: The Press and Victorian Views of Crime
Authors: Casey Christopher A.
Published: November 2010

After a string of successes in the early nineteenth century, the Victorian movement to reform criminal punishment began to falter. Despite evidence to the contrary, the populace grew convinced that violent crime was on the rise. A frequency analysis of The Times and The Manchester Guardian suggests that this misperception was due to a drastic increase in crime coverage by the periodicals of the day.
Prison Architecture and Inmate Misconduct
Authors: Morris Robert G. , Worrall John L.
Published: November 2010

Researchers have not yet devoted sufficient attention to the effect of prison architecture on inmate misconduct. Using data from the population of male prisoners in Texas, the authors explored the association between two prison architectural design types (as determined by satellite imagery) and inmate misconduct. The results from multilevel statistical analyses suggest that architectural design is associated with nonviolent misconduct but not violent misconduct. Policy implications and directions for future research are discussed.
Respondent-Driven Sampling With Hard-to-Reach Emerging Adults: An Introduction and Case Study With Rural African Americans
Authors: Kogan Steven M. , Wejnert Cyprian , Chen Yi-fu , Brody Gene H. , Slater LaTrina M.
Published: November 2010

Obtaining representative samples from populations of emerging adults who do not attend college is challenging for researchers. This article introduces respondent-driven sampling (RDS), a method for obtaining representative samples of hard-to-reach but socially interconnected populations. RDS combines a prescribed method for chain referral with a mathematical model to adjust for potential sampling bias. A case study is presented of the use of RDS to obtain a sample of rural African American emerging adults and to document the feasibility, effectiveness, and efficiency of the method with this population. RDS-related findings indicate that rural African American emerging adults form interconnected social networks that are appropriate for using RDS. RDS procedures are an acceptable and relatively efficient strategy for rural African Americans that is likely to yield more representative samples than traditional snowball sampling and provides data on potential sampling biases for planning multivariate analyses.