bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altered expression of the ZBRK1 gene in human breast carcinomas
Authors: Garcia Vanesa , Domínguez Gemma , García José M , Silva Javier , Peña Cristina , Silva José M , Carcereny Enric , Menendez Josefa , España Pilar , Bonilla Félix
Published: January 2004

The ZBRK1 protein is a member of the KRAB‐ZFP family. It functions as a transcriptional repressor by binding to its recognition sequence within target genes and producing a nucleoprotein complex containing its co‐repressor BRCA1 and also probably the co‐repressor KAP‐1. Alterations that affect the ZBRK1 gene have not been reported in human tumours. For this reason, possible alterations in the ZBRK1 gene have been studied by analysing mRNA expression using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and gene sequence using single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis and DNA sequencing, in 61 patients with primary breast carcinomas. BRCA1 mRNA expression and allelic loss were also studied in 25 of the same patients. ZBRK1 was underexpressed in 28 (45.9%) and overexpressed in 18 (29.5%) of the 61 cases. No significant association was observed between ZBRK1 mRNA expression and clinicopathological parameters. Loss of heterozygosity of the BRCA1 gene was found in 3 of 23 (13%) informative cases and BRCA1 mRNA expression was altered in 11 of 25 (44%) cases. No significant correlation was found between altered BRCA1 expression and the different types of ZBRK1 mRNA expression. Nine polymorphisms were found in the ZBRK1 sequence, with no significant differences between patients and control subjects. Altered ZBRK1 expression correlated significantly with two of these polymorphisms. A point mutation in one polymorphism and allelic loss in one patient were also observed, findings that indicate that these inactivation mechanisms do not frequently affect this gene. Altered expression of the ZBRK1 gene is therefore frequent in primary breast carcinoma. The functional significance of the polymorphisms in this gene is unclear. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease in Ohio Medicaid patients: practice patterns and temporal trends
Authors: Cooper Gregory S. , Mourad William A. , Koroukian Siran M.
Published: January 2004

Purpose

There is a paucity of data about the use of procedures and prescription medications in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in actual clinical practice.

Methods

Outpatient Ohio Medicaid claims from 1994 to 1998 were searched to identify patients with an initial diagnosis of GERD along with associated prescriptions and gastrointestinal procedures. Complications of GERD and comorbid illnesses were also determined.

Results

A total of 5579 patients were identified. Histamine‐2 receptor antagonists (H2RA') were prescribed in 59%, followed by proton pump inhibitors (PPI's) (30%) and prokinetic drugs (17%). PPI's were more frequently prescribed to patients with GERD‐related complications, peptic ulcer disease and major comorbidities, and patients who received PPI's were also more likely to undergo upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The frequencies of upper endoscopy and barium studies were 20% and 11% respectively, with no change over the study period. There was an increased frequency of PPI therapy (17–43%) and decreased frequency of H2RA therapy (72–47%) from 1994 to 1998 which persisted after adjusting for potential differences in case mix.

Conclusions

In this population‐based study, prescription of PPI's increased over time which likely reflected changes in clinician practice rather than patient mix. Despite a greater awareness of GERD complications, use of upper endoscopy did not increase. Although the cohort consists of predominantly low socioeconomic status, female patients, further studies should be conducted in other populations to confirm these findings. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ovarian cancer risk and use of phenolphthalein‐containing laxatives
Authors: Cooper Glinda S. , Longnecker Matthew P. , Peters Ruth K.
Published: January 2004

Purpose

Experimental studies in rodents demonstrated the carcinogenic potential of phenolphthalein, the active ingredient in some laxatives, administered at doses similar to the dose that could be used by humans. Ovarian cancer was one of the cancers observed in these studies. We examined the association between epithelial ovarian cancer and use of phenolphthalein‐containing laxatives in a population‐based case‐control study.

Methods

The study includes 356 epithelial ovarian cancer cases (256 invasive, 100 borderline) and 424 controls. Cases were identified through a population‐based registry in Los Angeles County in 1992–1998, and controls were matched to cases by age, race/ethnicity and neighborhood. Data on laxative use (specific brands, frequency of use, usual dose) were obtained by structured in‐person interview.

Results

Compared to women who never used a laxative, ever use of a phenolphthalein‐containing laxative was not associated with an increased risk of invasive ovarian cancer (odds ratio (OR) 1.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.75, 1.5) or of borderline ovarian cancer (OR 0.75, 95%CI 0.37, 1.5). Total days used, mean number of pills per day and cumulative dose were also unrelated to risk.

Conclusions

This study provides some assurance that phenolphthalein‐containing laxatives do not increase the risk of ovarian cancer in humans. These findings are of particular importance to those countries in which phenolphthalein is still used in over‐the‐counter medications. Published in 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does hormone therapy for the treatment of breast cancer have a detrimental effect on memory and cognition? A pilot study
Authors: Jenkins Valerie , Shilling Valerie , Fallowfield Lesley , Howell Anthony , Hutton Sam
Published: January 2004

This pilot study examines whether hormone therapy for breast cancer affects cognition. Patients participating in a randomised trial of anastrozole, tamoxifen alone or combined (ATAC) (n=94) and a group of women without breast cancer (n=35) completed a battery of neuropsychological measures. Compared with the control group, the patients were impaired on a processing speed task (p=0.032) and on a measure of immediate verbal memory (p=0.026) after controlling for the use of hormone replacement therapy in both groups. Patient group performance was not significantly related to length of treatment or measures of psychological morbidity. The results showed specific impairments in processing speed and verbal memory in women receiving hormonal therapy for the treatment of breast cancer. Verbal memory may be especially sensitive to changes in oestrogen levels, a finding commonly reported in studies of hormone replacement therapy in healthy women. In view of the increased use of hormone therapies in an adjuvant and preventative setting their impact on cognitive functioning should be investigated more thoroughly. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of dyadic intervention on self‐efficacy, social support, and depression for men with prostate cancer
Authors: Weber Bryan A. , Roberts Beverly L. , Resnick Martin , Deimling Gary , Zauszniewski Jaclene A. , Musil Carol , Yarandi Hossein N.
Published: January 2004

Urinary and sexual dysfunctions are side effects of radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer (PC) that contribute to depression. Despite the effectiveness of support groups at reducing depression in cancer patients, men typically do not participate in them. The purpose of this pilot study was to test the effects of a dyadic intervention (one‐to‐one support) on social support (Modified Inventory of Socially Supportive Behaviors), self‐efficacy (Stanford Inventory of Cancer Patient Adjustment), and depression (Geriatric Depression Scale). Subjects were randomized to group. Controls (N=15; Mage=59.7) received usual care. Experimentals were paired with long‐term survivors (LTS) who had RP and who had treatment side effects in common. Experimentals (N=15; Mage=57.5) met with a LTS 8 times in 8 weeks to discuss concerns associated with survivorship. No significant differences were detected on social support, but after 4 weeks, significant differences were present on depression between controls and experimentals, however these differences were not seen at 8 weeks. After 8 weeks, there were also significant differences on self‐efficacy between controls and experimentals. Weekly anecdotal data supported the feasibility and acceptance of the intervention that was a low cost strategy effective at reducing depression and increasing self‐efficacy in men treated by RP. Future research directions and clinical application is presented. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cancer diagnosis and prognosis in Taiwan: Patient preferences versus experiences
Authors: Tang Siew Tzuh , Lee Shiu‐Yu C.
Published: January 2004

Considering the emphasis of nonmaleficence and beneficence and the relative power of family, there is a well‐recognized suggestion that, in Asian culture, informing cancer patients about their diagnosis and prognosis should be modified according to the family's opinion. However, up until now, except in Japan, the argument that cancer patients from an Asian culture have different preferences about being informed of their diagnosis and prognosis has not been demonstrated by evidence‐based studies especially by directly exploring cancer patients' preferences. The purpose of this study was to describe Taiwanese cancer patients' knowledge and experiences of being informed of their diagnosis and prognosis. Preferences of information from health‐care professionals and attitudes toward disclosing information to family and even respecting family's opinions not to disclose the life‐threatening diagnosis and prognosis to patients have also been explored from the patient's point of views. Evidence from this study demonstrated that Taiwanese cancer patients' information needs are substantial. However, the common practice of nondisclosure of prognosis and detailed disease‐related information by health‐care professionals continues. Cancer patients in Taiwan expressed a strong preference for health‐care professionals to inform them of disease‐related information before disclosing information to their family members. Health‐care professionals need to consider and respect cancer patients' views rather than routinely taking the family's opinions into consideration first in the event of disagreement. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Psychoeducational group intervention for wives of men with prostate cancer
Authors: Manne Sharon , Babb James , Pinover Wayne , Horwitz Eric , Ebbert Judi
Published: January 2004

Objective: The effects of a 6‐week psychoeducational group intervention on the distress, coping, personal growth, and marital communication of wives of men diagnosed with prostate cancer were evaluated using a randomized clinical trial.

Methods: Sixty wives completed measures prior to random assignment to either the psychoeducational group intervention or a no‐treatment control group, and 1 month after completion of the group.

Results: No differences with regard to wives' general distress or cancer‐specific distress were noted. In comparison with the control group, participants receiving the intervention perceived that having a spouse with prostate cancer had made positive contributions to their lives, reported gains in the use of positive reappraisal coping and reductions in denial coping.

Conclusion: Although the psychoeducational intervention did not result in changes in psychological distress, improvements in adaptive coping and indicators of psychological growth were found. The utility of group interventions for spouses of men with prostate cancer is discussed. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characteristics of prostate cancers detected at low PSA levels
Authors: Horninger Wolfgang , Berger A.P. , Rogatsch H. , Gschwendtner A. , Steiner H. , Niescher M. , Klocker H. , Bartsch G.
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

When age‐referenced PSA levels as recommended by Oesterling et al.1 were used as a biopsy criterion, only 25% of the cancers detected in a population based PSA Screening Project were organ‐confined. This observation led to the decision to use low PSA levels as the sole indication for biopsy. Since 1995 age‐referenced PSA levels of 1.25–3.25 ng/ml have been used in combination with a percentage free PSA cutoff of 18%. This PSA cutoff reduction led to a statistically significant migration to lower pathological stages with a decreased prostate cancer mortality in the years 1996–2001. However, concerns have been raised that screening with low PSA levels may detect clinically insignificant cancers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We evaluated prostate cancer patients with low PSA levels in terms of heterogeneity, clinical significance, multifocality, and tumor biology including ploidy and proliferation index.

RESULTS

Concerning heterogeneity the Gleason score of the needle biopsy failed to predict the Gleason score of the radical prostatectomy specimen in nearly 40% of prostate cancer patients; regarding multifocality 65% of patients with low PSA levels showed multifocal lesions and 36% exhibited tetraploid DNA distribution; more than 50% of tetraploid tumors were found in patients with tumor volumes of less than 0.5 cm3. Ploidy correlated with the Ki‐67 proliferation index, but not with tumor volume.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that small prostate cancers with low PSA levels and low tumor volumes exhibit all features of prostate cancers with higher tumor volumes and show the characteristics of malignant cancers, i.e., multifocality, tetraploidy, and high proliferative activity. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development of new prostate specific monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Lampe M.I. , Molkenboer‐Kuenen J.D.M. , Oosterwijk E.
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

Despite the need for new prostate‐specific diagnostic and therapeutic targets, very few unique prostate (cancer) specific antigens have been characterized. Monoclonal antibody (mAb) technology is a powerful tool to identify specific antigenic markers, which could be potential targets for cancer diagnostics or therapy.

METHODS

Splenocytes from mice immunized with prostate cancer (PCa) homogenates of different origin were fused using standard techniques. Employing a differential high‐throughput screening method followed by immediate screening in immunohistochemistry (IHC) a large number of hybridomas were screened for prostate (cancer) specificity.

RESULTS

From 25 successful fusions approximately 300 clones were identified excreting PCa‐reactive antibodies. Subsequent immunohistochemical fine‐specificity analysis reduced this number to 26. Eventually, after extensive fine‐specificity analysis, the number of mAbs appearing to define prostate‐specific antigenic structures that might serve as new diagnostic or therapeutic targets was reduced to three.

CONCLUSIONS

Using mAb technology combined with a high throughput screening method we have developed three mAbs (1.8, 2.26, and 3.10) directed against prostate associated antigens that might identify potential new therapeutic targets. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulation of rat prostate stromal cell myodifferentiation by androgen and TGF‐β1
Authors: Gerdes Michael J. , Larsen Melinda , Dang Truong D. , Ressler Steven J. , Tuxhorn Jennifer A. , Rowley David R.
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

Myodifferentiation of stromal cells is a key step in prostate development and is a hallmark of reactive stroma in prostate cancer. Little is known about regulatory mechanisms, however, prostate stromal cells are androgen‐regulated and TGF‐β1 is a known stimulator of stromal myodifferentiation. The PS‐1 rat prostate stromal cell line expresses androgen receptor, and exhibits androgen‐regulated gene expression and proliferation. TGF‐β1 inhibits androgen action in PS‐1 cells through translocation of androgen receptor from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. The present study was conducted to determine whether myodifferentiation of PS‐1 cells is regulated by androgen and TGF‐β1, and how myodifferentiation affects androgen receptor localization and cell proliferation.

METHODS

PS‐1 cell cultures were exposed to physiological concentrations of dihydrotestosterone, TGF‐β1, and combinations of both in chemically defined medium. Immunocytochemistry and Western blotting for smooth muscle α‐actin filament formation, smooth muscle α‐actin protein levels, calponin expression, PCNA index, and androgen receptor localization were performed.

RESULTS

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and TGF‐β1 each separately promoted PS‐1 myodifferentiation. A combination did not affect the rate of differentiation, however, the level of α‐actin protein was elevated and PCNA was decreased in co‐stimulated conditions. TGF‐β1 induction resulted in a transient translocation of androgen receptor from the nucleus to the cytoplasm during differentiation followed by a resumed nuclear localization in myodifferentiated cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These data indicate that a complex cross‐talk mechanism exists between androgen and TGF‐β1 signaling in prostate stromal cells that affects cell proliferation and myodifferentiation. These findings also suggest that androgen and TGF‐β1 interactions may cooperatively regulate myodifferentiation of stromal cells in the stromal response in prostate cancer. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phase I/II clinical trials of carbon ion therapy for prostate cancer
Authors: Akakura Koichiro , Tsujii Hirohiko , Morita Shinroku , Tsuji Hiroshi , Yagishita Tsuguo , Isaka Shigeo , Ito Haruo , Akaza Hideyuki , Hata Makoto , Fujime Makoto , Harada Masaoki , Shimazaki Jun
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

Heavy ion beams possess high linear energy transfer components and a prominent Bragg peak in the human body, resulting in higher relative biological effectiveness and improved dose distribution. To establish heavy ion therapy techniques for the treatment of prostate cancer, phase I/II clinical trials were initiated.

METHODS

For 96 patients with T1b‐T3 prostate cancer, three carbon ion beams were used to irradiate the prostate and seminal vesicles (20 times/5 weeks) with or without endocrine therapy. Radiation dose was expressed in GyE which was initially thought to be equivalent to photon dose. Total dose was gradually increased from 54 to 72 GyE.

RESULTS

Carbon ion therapy was completed in 20 cases of T1b/T1c/T2aN0M0 as monotherapy, in 8 cases of T2b/T3pN0M0 with neoadjuvant endocrine therapy, and in 68 cases of T2b/T3N0/pN1M0 with neoadjuvant and adjuvant endocrine therapy. Median observation period was 47 months. Grade 3 late radiation morbidity of rectum and/or bladder/urethra developed in one and five cases who received 66 and 72 GyE of radiation, respectively. After these adverse effects were observed, total dose was decreased to 66 GyE and the radiation field was coned down during the treatment course. At 5 years, overall, cause‐specific, clinical recurrence‐free, and biochemical recurrence‐free survival rates were 87.7, 94.9, 90.0, and 82.6%, respectively. Local control was achieved in all patients except one patient who received 54 GyE of radiation.

CONCLUSIONS

The therapeutic techniques of carbon ion therapy have been established for patients with prostate cancer. Carbon ion therapy may exert excellent effect to the tissues of prostate cancer. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of p21 cell cycle protein is an independent predictor of response to salvage radiotherapy after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Rigaud Jérôme , Tiguert Rabi , Decobert Marc , Hovington Hélène , Latulippe Eva , Laverdiere Jacques , Larue Hélène , Lacombe Louis , Fradet Yves
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

To assess whether the expression of p21, p27, and p53 could predict biochemical failure in prostate cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant androgen deprivation prior to salvage radiotherapy for a rising post‐radical prostatectomy (RP) prostate‐specific antigen (PSA).

METHODS

The expression of p21, p27, and p53 was determined by immunohistochemistry in a cohort of 74 formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded prostate cancer samples obtained from RP. Expression of these markers was then correlated with clinicopathological parameters and biochemical failure‐free survival after salvage radiotherapy.

RESULTS

Expression of p21, p27, and p53 was observed in 20%, 69%, and 74% of prostate cancer specimens, respectively. Overexpression of p21 correlated with a higher Gleason score (>7) (P = 0.024). Of the three markers, only p21 expression was correlated with PSA failure after radiotherapy (P = 0.034). In multivariate analysis, both positive p21 (P = 0.004) and pre‐radiation serum PSA > 1 ng/ml (P < 0.0001) were independent predictors of biochemical failure after salvage radiotherapy. Patients with p21− tumors and a serum PSA level ≤ 1 ng/ml before salvage radiotherapy had a biochemical failure‐free survival at 5 years of 83%, compared to 16% at 5 years for those patients with either p21+ tumor or a PSA > 1 ng/ml. Patients with both p21+ and a PSA level > 1 ng/ml had a much lower biochemical failure‐free survival rate of 25% at only 18 months (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of p21 in prostatectomy specimens could help predict the likelihood of response to salvage radiotherapy, particularly in patients treated before PSA reaches 1 ng/ml. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical and pathologic features of prostate cancer detected after repeat false‐negative biopsy in a screening population
Authors: Steiner Hannes , Moser Patrizia , Hager Martina , Berger Andreas P. , Klocker Helmut , Spranger Robert , Rogatsch Hermann , Bartsch Georg , Horninger Wolfgang
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

The present study was designed to investigate whether the clinical or pathologic features of prostate cancer (PCa) are related to the number of repeat biopsies required to establish the diagnosis of PCa.

METHODS

Between February 1993 and August 2000, 653 patients were evaluated in this retrospective study. All patients underwent transrectal ultrasound‐guided biopsy of the prostate prior to radical retropubic prostatectomy. The pathologic findings of specimens obtained at radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection as well as PSA levels, findings on DRE, prostate volumes, transition zone volumes, and age were analyzed separately for all PCa patients diagnosed at the first set of biopsies (group A) and compared with the data of those diagnosed at the 2nd–5th set of biopsies (group B). In a second step, we compared the results obtained from patients diagnosed at the 2nd set of biopsies (group B1) with those of patients diagnosed at the 3rd to 5th set of biopsies (group B2).

RESULTS

Gleason scores, pathologic tumor stages, and tumor volumes in group B were found to be significantly decreased compared to group A. But from the 2nd to 5th serial biopsy no further decrease in pathologic stage, Gleason score, or tumor volume was observed. On the contrary, there was a tendency towards higher tumor stages and Gleason scores. Of the tumors detected after the second false‐negative set of biopsies almost 70% were lesions with Gleason scores of 6 or higher.

CONCLUSIONS

False‐negative results at the first needle biopsy are predictive of a lower pathologic stage and grade as well as smaller tumor volumes of PCa diagnosed at repeat sets of biopsies. False‐negative results on repeat biopsy, however, have no prognostic significance for the tumor stage of PCas detected at subsequent sets of biopsies. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐term androgen‐ablation causes increased resistance to PI3K/Akt pathway inhibition in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Pfeil Karina , Eder Iris E. , Putz Thomas , Ramoner Reinhold , Culig Zoran , Ueberall Florian , Bartsch Georg , Klocker Helmut
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

In advanced stages of prostate cancer, the phosphatidylinositol‐3′ kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling cascade, one of the major survival pathways in the cell, is frequently constitutively activated due to mutation or loss of the tumor suppressor protein phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN). Using cell culture models representing different tumor stages, we explored the effect of inhibition of this survival pathway on the induction of apoptosis.

METHODS

Inhibition of the survival kinase Akt and induction of apoptosis was analyzed in androgen‐insensitive DU145 and PC‐3 cells, in androgen‐responsive LNCaP, and in androgen‐independent long‐term androgen‐ablated LNCaP‐abl cells representing therapy‐resistant prostate cancer cells. Activated Akt was determined by immunoblotting using a phospho‐Akt specific antibody. Induction of apoptosis was analyzed employing annexing V and propidium iodide staining and flow cytometry and measurement of cleavage of the caspases substrate poly‐ADP‐ribose polymerase (PARP).

RESULTS

IGF‐1, EGF, and heregulin but not PDGF or activators of protein kinase A induced phosphorylation of Akt in DU145 cells and activation was completely blocked by the PI3K inhibitor LY294002. In the hormone‐responsive prostate cancer cell line LNCaP that has a constitutively switched‐on Akt kinase, LY294002 caused a dose‐ and time‐dependent Akt inhibition, which was absent in long‐term androgen‐ablated LNCaP sublines. In agreement with the resistance to inhibition of the PI3K/Akt pathway, long‐term androgen‐ablated LNCaP sublines remained relatively resistant to induction of cell death by LY294002 or the cytotoxic drug etoposide. Inhibition of the PI3K/Akt pathway restored the sensitivity of long‐term androgen‐ablated cells to induction of apoptosis by a cytotoxic drug almost completely.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that long‐term androgen ablation therapy for prostate cancer reinforces the PI3K/Akt pathway and impedes its inhibition thus contributing to increased resistance of tumor cells to induction of apoptosis. With regard to treatment of therapy‐refractory prostate cancer, these findings suggest effectiveness of a combination of cytotoxic treatment and inhibition of the PI3K‐Akt survival pathway in tumor cells after failure of androgen‐ablation therapy. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of NF‐κB in prostate cancer lymph node metastases
Authors: Ismail A. Hazem , Lessard Laurent , Mes‐Masson Anne‐Marie , Saad Fred
Published: January 2004

INTRODUCTION

Nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) is a transcription factor that transactivates genes involved in the regulation of cell growth, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Our aim was to assess NF‐κB expression in lymph node (LN) metastases of prostate cancer.

METHODS

Immunohistochemical staining was performed using the p65 anti‐NF‐κB antibody. Seventy‐seven paraffin‐embedded LN specimens obtained from 54 prostate cancer patients were analyzed. Of the 54 patients, 32 had positive LN metastases, while 22 showed no evidence of metastasis and were considered as controls. The overall percentage of NF‐κB‐nuclear localization was assessed, as well as the intensity of staining.

RESULTS

Nuclear localization of NF‐κB was significantly greater in the metastatic LN group compared to controls. In patients with positive‐LN metastases, 84.4% showed >10% nuclear staining in tumor cells. Moreover, 64.4% of the malignant LN specimens had >10% nuclear staining in lymphocytes compared to 0% in controls. Intensity of cytoplasmic and nuclear staining was higher in the metastatic LN group than in controls (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Nuclear localization/activation of NF‐κB is up‐regulated in prostate cancer LN metastasis. Such up‐regulation of NF‐κB activity is observed in the tumor cells as well as in the surrounding lymphocytes. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Canine prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia: Is the comparative model relevant?
Authors: Madewell Bruce R. , Gandour‐Edwards Regina , DeVere White Ralph W.
Published: January 2004

BACKGROUND

Histologic sections from an archival collection of a veterinary teaching hospital were examined to determine the likelihood of detection of canine high‐grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasms (HGPIN), as a prelude to use of the canine model of prostatic carcinogenesis for chemopreventive strategies.

METHODS

Tissue specimens representing clinically healthy (normal) prostate glands, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and prostatic carcinoma were examined in one tissue plane for histological evidence of HGPIN.

RESULTS

No histological evidence of HGPIN was detected in 20 normal prostate glands or 95 prostate glands with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Seven of 20 prostatic carcinomas had synchronous HGPIN.

CONCLUSIONS

Histological evidence of HGPIN is unlikely to be detected in the healthy or hyperplastic canine prostate gland with the clinically‐procured biopsy. This might diminish the usefulness of canine HGPIN in temporal studies of chemoprevention of prostate cancer. HGPIN was found simultaneously with prostatic carcinoma in more than one‐third of the carcinomas examined. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Climate change and decreasing herbicide persistence
Authors: Bailey Steven W
Published: January 2004

A herbicide degradation model, using real weather data for the period 1980–2001, has been used to estimate the change in persistence of autumn‐applied isoproturon over this period. The results suggest that soil residues fell to the minimum for weed control on average approximately 30 days earlier over the last 5 years of this period than in the first 5 years, equivalent to a reduction of approximately 25% in the duration of weed control. This decline in persistence is attributed to increasing soil temperature. The results are discussed in relation to recent observations and predictions on climate change. The relevance of the findings to other pesticides and future weed control is considered. Copyright © 2003 Society of Chemical Industry
Biology and integrated control of Pestalotiopsis on container‐grown ericaceous crops
Authors: McQuilken Mark P , Hopkins KE
Published: January 2004

Pestalotiopsis isolates obtained from the foliage, stem‐base and roots of diseased container‐grown ericaceous crops (Calluna, Erica, Pieris and Rhododendron) collected from UK nurseries were identified as Pestalotiopsis sydowiana (Bresad) B Sutton on the basis of conidia morphology. Inoculum sources of the pathogen included diseased stock plants, crop debris, nursery soils, used growing media, pots and floor covering, and dust collected from greenhouse walkways. Isolates were not host‐specific and infected other species of ericaceous plants, with typical symptoms including browning of foliage, stems and roots, and the presence of black or greenish black acervuli on diseased tissue. The optimum temperature for growth of three selected isolates of the pathogen was 20–25 °C, with little or no growth occurring below 5 or above 30 °C. Growth occurred over pH 2.6–8.6, with optimum at 5.5. Decreases in matric potential from −0.3 to −4.0 MPa reduced growth, which was totally inhibited at −6.5 MPa. Greenhouse trials were conducted to evaluate the effects of disease management methods (irrigation, flooring/pot disinfection and fungicide application) on control of the pathogen on potted plants of C vulgaris. Disease incidence and foliar browning caused by P sydowiana were less on fungicide‐treated (five‐spray programme of alternating prochloraz and carbendazim) potted plants watered by sub‐irrigation compared with watering from overhead. Single and combined treatments of flooring/pot disinfection (hydrogen peroxide/peracetic acid) and the five‐spray fungicide programme significantly reduced disease incidence and severity compared with dipping pots in water. The combined disinfection and fungicide programme significantly reduced disease incidence and severity, compared to disinfection or fungicide application alone. The importance of these findings for the integrated control of P sydowiana on ericaceous plant nurseries is discussed. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Insecticidal effects of essential oils from various plants against larvae of pine processionary moth (Thaumetopoea pityocampa Schiff) (Lepidoptera: Thaumetopoeidae)
Authors: Kanat Mehmet , Alma M Hakki
Published: January 2004

Along with sulfate turpentine, the essential oils obtained by steam distillation from nine plant species naturally grown in Turkish forests were tested at three different concentrations to evaluate their effectiveness against the larvae of pine processionary moth (Thaumetopoea pityocampa Schiff). The results indicated that the essential oils from the nine species and sulfate turpentine were effective against the larvae of T pityocampa. The most effective essential oil in the control of the larvae was steam‐distilled wood turpentine, followed by thyme herb oil, juniper berry oil, laurel leaf oil, lavender flower oil, eucalyptus leaf oil, lavender leaf oil, cypress berry oil, essential oil of styrax and sulfate turpentine, respectively, in terms of mean mortality time. It is therefore feasible to use these essential oils as environment‐friendly insecticides in the control of T pityocampa. Copyright © 2003 Society of Chemical Industry
Long‐term selection for resistance to transgenic cotton expressing Bacillus thuringiensis toxin in Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Fengxia Meng , Shen Jinliang , Zhou Weijun , Cen Hongmei
Published: January 2004

Selection experiments for resistance to transgenic Bt cotton expressing Cry1Ac toxin in Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) were conducted using a leaf‐feeding method with 42 selection episodes over 45 generations. The cotton bollworm developed resistance to transgenic Bt cotton after 12 generations (F12) of selection. The survival rate of F12 neonates feeding on leaves of seedling stage for 4 days and boll‐opening stage for 5 days of R19 line were ca 34 and 72%, respectively, compared with ca 0 and 40% for a non‐selected sister strain (NYCS), but lower than or similar to that of F12 feeding on leaves of non‐Bt cotton, Sumian 12 (ca 87 or 76%). Resistance to B thuringiensis HD‐1 Dipel in neonates (F12) was ca 6‐fold. After 42 generations of selection, the strain developed a very high level of resistance to Cry1Ac protoxin, 210 g kg−1 MVPII wettable powder and 200 g litre−1 MVPII liquid formulation, the resistance ratios being 1680‐, 1780‐ and ca 1200‐fold, respectively, compared with a laboratory susceptible strain (HZS). When compared with the non‐selected NYCS, the resistance ratios to the above toxins were ca 540‐, 580‐ and 510‐fold, respectively, but to Dipel only ca 16‐fold. The results indicated that it is very important to develop and implement effective resistance‐management strategies and to detect early resistance to Bt cotton in field populations. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Feeding deterrent and growth inhibitory properties of limonoids from Khaya senegalensis against the cotton leafworm, Spodoptera littoralis
Authors: El‐Aswad Ahmed F , Abdelgaleil Samir AM , Nakatani Munehiro
Published: January 2004

Three rearranged phragmalin‐type limonoids, khayanolide A, khayanolide B and 1‐O‐acetylkhayanolide B, and a mexicanolide‐type limonoid, khayalactol, have been isolated from the stem bark of Khaya senegalensis (Desr) A Juss (Meliaceae). The antifeedant and growth‐inhibitory activities of the isolated compounds were evaluated on Spodoptera littoralis (Boisduval). When added to an artificial diet, khayanolide A, khayanolide B and 1‐O‐acetylkhayanolide B showed antifeedant activity in a concentration‐dependent manner. Khayalactol exhibited strong antifeedant activity without significant differences at all of the tested concentrations (7.5–100 mg kg−1). Khayanolide B was the most potent antifeedant with an EC50 of 2.19 mg kg−1. The results also revealed that the isolated compounds caused marked larval growth inhibition on S littoralis after 7 days of feeding on treated diet; this effect was concentration‐dependent. Khayanolide B was the most active growth inhibitor among the isolated compounds, with an EC50 of 6.96 mg kg−1. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Crop protection—what will shape the future picture?
Authors: Atkinson David , Litterick Audrey M , Walker Kerr C , Walker Robin , Watson Christine A
Published: January 2004

The drivers which influence the types of crop protection most needed by agriculture are changing. A polarisation of approaches has resulted in the needs of organic agriculture and biotechnological agriculture, which can be identified as the current extremes of the spectrum, becoming very different. The main requirements of these two sectors are identified here and used as the basis for questioning future EU research requirements in crop protection. Factors affecting/influencing organic farming and the use of genetically modified crops are discussed in some detail. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
De novo sequencing of tryptic peptides sulfonated by 4‐sulfophenyl isothiocyanate for unambiguous protein identification using post‐source decay matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Chen Ping , Nie Song , Mi Wei , Wang Xian‐Chun , Liang Song‐Ping
Published: January 2004

A simple method of solid‐phase derivatization and sequencing of tryptic peptides has been developed for rapid and unambiguous identification of spots on two‐dimensional gels using post‐source decay (PSD) matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry. The proteolytic digests of proteins are chemically modified by 4‐sulfophenyl isothiocyanate. The derivatization reaction introduces a negative sulfonic acid group at the N‐terminus of a peptide, which can increase the efficiency of PSD fragmentation and enable the selective detection of only a single series of fragment ions (y‐ions). This chemically assisted method avoids the limitation of high background normally observed in MALDI‐PSD spectra, and makes the spectra easier to interpret and facilitates de novo sequencing of internal fragment. The modification reaction is conducted in C18 μZipTips to decrease the background and to enhance the signal/noise. Derivatization procedures were optimized for MALDI‐PSD to increase the structural information and to obtain a complete peptide sequence even in critical cases. The MALDI‐PSD mass spectra of two model peptides and their sulfonated derivatives are compared. For some proteins unambiguous identification could be achieved by MALDI‐PSD sequencing of derivatized peptides obtained from in‐gel digests of phosphorylase B and proteins of hepatic satellite cells (HSC). Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of low molecular weight compounds by ultraviolet matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry using ionic liquid matrices
Authors: Zabet‐Moghaddam Masoud , Heinzle Elmar , Tholey Andreas
Published: January 2004

A major problem hampering the use of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry for quantitative measurements is the inhomogeneous distribution of analytes and matrices in solid sample preparations. The use of ionic liquids as matrices for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of low molecular weight compounds like amino acids, sugars and vitamins was investigated. The ionic liquid matrices are composed of equimolar combinations of classical MALDI matrices (sinapinic acid, α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamic acid or 2,5‐dihydroxybenzoic acid) with organic bases. These matrix systems allow a homogenous sample preparation with a thin ionic liquid layer having negligible vapour pressure. This leads to a facilitated qualitative and quantitative measurement of the analytes compared with classical solid matrices. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Solid‐phase microextraction combined with surface‐enhanced laser desorption/ionization introduction for ion mobility spectrometry and mass spectrometry using polypyrrole coatings
Authors: Wang Yan , Walles Markus , Thomson Bruce , Nacson Sabatino , Pawliszyn Janusz
Published: January 2004

The successful application of polypyrrole (PPY) solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) coatings as both an extraction phase and a surface to enhance laser desorption/ionization (SELDI) of analytes is reported. This SPME/SELDI fiber integrates sample preparation and sample introduction on the tip of a coated optical fiber, as well as acting as the transmission medium for the UV laser light. Using ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) detection, the signal intensity was examined as a function of extraction surface area and concentration of analyte. The linear relationship between concentration and signal intensity shows potential applicability of this detection method for quantitative analysis. Extraction time profiles for the fiber, using tetraoctylammonium bromide as test analyte, illustrated that equilibrium can be reached in less than one minute. To investigate the performance of the PPY coating, the laser desorption profile was studied. The fiber was also tested using a quadrupole time‐of‐flight (Q‐TOF) mass spectrometer with leucine enkephalin as test analyte. Since no matrix was used, mass spectra free from matrix background were obtained. This novel SPME/SELDI fiber is easy to manufacture, and is suitable for studying low‐mass analytes because of the intrinsic low background. These findings suggest that other types of conductive polymers could also be used as an extraction phase and surface to enhance laser desorption/ionization in mass spectrometry. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On‐line identification of phenanthroindolizidine alkaloids in a crude extract from Tylophora atrofolliculata by liquid chromatography combined with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Cui Lijie , Abliz Zeper , Xia Min , Zhao Liyan , Gao Song , He Wenyi , Xiang Yun , Liang Feng , Yu Shishan
Published: January 2004

Electrospray ionization multi‐stage tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MSn) and liquid chromatography coupled with sequential mass spectrometry (LC/MSn) were applied to identify trace‐level phenanthroindolizidine alkaloids in crude extracts from Tylophora atrofolliculata. Based on the relationship between the characteristic fragmentation reactions and the structural features of related compounds of known structure from this plant, the bioactive crude extract was analyzed in detail by positive and negative ion ESI‐MSn, LC/UV‐MS and LC/MSn techniques. A total of nine constituents in the crude extract were identified rapidly, including several isomers; seven of these constituents are new and two are known compounds. The structures of four of these constituents were subsequently confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and accurate mass measurements using high‐resolution fast‐atom bombardment mass spectrometry (FAB‐HRMS). Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new method for determining δ13C and δD simultaneously for CH4 by gas chromatography/continuous‐flow isotope‐ratio mass spectrometry
Authors: Potter Joanna , Siemann Michael G.
Published: January 2004

A continuous‐flow technique has been developed to analyse the δD and δ13C values for CH4 from gas samples, in a single run. This is achieved by splitting the sample gas stream and directing the streams simultaneously through a CuNiPt combustion reactor and an alumina pyrolysis reactor. The CO2 from CH4 combustion is trapped in a liquid nitrogen trap while the H2 exiting the pyrolysis reactor is directed to the mass spectrometer for δDCH4 determination. The CO2 is then sublimed and directed to the mass spectrometer for δ13CCH4 determination. Sample runs take approximately 10 minutes. This technique gives accurate δ13CCH4 results to within ±0.3–0.5‰ and δDCH4 results to within ±2–5‰. Injection volumes between 0.5 and 2.5 μL of CH4, equivalent to between 20 and 100 nmol CH4, are required for accurate δ13C and δD analyses, respectively, using sample injection into a split flow with a split ratio of 10. This method provides rapid, accurate and reproducible results on multiple sample runs and is, therefore, an ideal method for analysing natural gas samples from a variety of sources. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Headspace solid‐phase microextraction with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry in the investigation of volatile organic compounds in an ectomycorrhizae synthesis system
Authors: Menotta Michele , Gioacchini Anna M. , Amicucci Antonella , Buffalini Michele , Sisti Davide , Stocchi Vilberto
Published: January 2004

Ectomycorrhizae formation represents one of the most significant steps in the truffle life cycle and is determined by a complex molecular signaling between two symbionts. In order to understand the molecular pathway of ectomycorrhiza development, we focused on the signaling interaction between the ectomycorrhizal fungus Tuber borchii Vittad. and the Tilia americana L. plant roots. The medium of a pre‐symbiotic (T. americana–T. borchii) in vitro system was analysed by headspace solid‐phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. In total, 73 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were identified. Twenty‐nine of these VOCs were produced only during the interaction phase between the two partners, leading to a hypothesis that these molecules might act as molecular messengers in order to pilot the ectomycorrhizae formation. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous co‐extraction of organometallic species of different elements by accelerated solvent extraction and analysis by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry coupled to liquid and gas chromatography
Authors: Wahlen Raimund , Catterick Tim
Published: January 2004

This paper describes the development of an accelerated solvent extraction methodology that is capable of simultaneously extracting organometallic species of As, Sn and Hg in a semi‐automated manner. Accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) methods based on previous research on the separate extraction of organotin and ‐arsenic species in our laboratory were adapted for the co‐extraction of six different species from an oyster tissue certified reference material (BCR 710). For the first time, the extraction of MeHg by this technique is also investigated. The proposed ASE conditions employed 50% acetic acid in methanol at a temperature of 100°C with up to five consecutive extraction cycles of 3 minutes. Extraction efficiencies for organoarsenic species ranged from 80% (dimethylarsinic acid, DMA) to 99% for arsenobetaine (AsB). Species of toxicological interest, such as dibutyltin (DBT), tributyltin (TBT) and methylmercury (MeHg), were extracted with mean recoveries of 81, 84 and 76%, respectively. The extracted species were analysed by gas chromatography/inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (GC/ICPMS; DBT, TBT and MeHg) and liquid chromatography/inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LC/ICPMS; MMA, DMA, AsB) after ethylation with sodium tetraethylborate or dilution with water, respectively. In addition to those species for which the extraction efficiency was assessed during this study, a further five arsenic species (arsenite, arsenate and three unidentified species), as well as monobutyltin (MBT) and mono‐, di‐ and triphenyltin, could also be extracted from other matrices. The developed ASE method provides a significant improvement over many currently available routine monitoring methods for trace element speciation due to the fact that it is capable of extracting several species of toxicological interest simultaneously and quantitatively. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.