bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nuclear DNA from old collections of avian study skins reveals the evolutionary history of the Old World suboscines (Aves, Passeriformes)
Authors: Irestedt Martin , Ohlson Jan I. , Zuccon Dario , Källersjö Mari , Ericson Per G. P.
Published: September 2006

Museum study skins represent an invaluable source of DNA for phylogenetics, phylogeography and population genetics. This becomes evident by comparing the number of study skins of birds housed in museums worldwide (c. 10 million) with the corresponding number of tissue samples (probably fewer than 500 000). While the laboratory techniques used hitherto have primarily allowed PCR‐based studies of mitochondrial genes from museum skins, we present here the first avian phylogeny based on a large number of nuclear sequences. The targeted fragment sizes and the properties of the primers used are important contributory factors to obtain good amplification results. In this study we routinely amplified fragments of c. 350 bp nuclear DNA. This advance in methodology opens up a new avenue for the use of avian museum skins, as nuclear DNA is especially useful when studying ancient patterns of diversification. The phylogenetic hypothesis of the Old World suboscines (Eurylaimides) presented herein strongly supports a monophyletic origin of the pittas (Pittidae). The phylogeny further suggests that pittas could be divided into three major groups, in agreement with the external morphological variation found in this group. The broadbills (Eurylaimidae) as currently defined are, on the other hand, found to be a paraphyletic family, as both Sapayoa aenigma and the asities (Philepittidae) are nested among them. Based on the phylogenetic results we suggest a revised classification of the Old World suboscines (Eurylaimides).
Ultrasonography to visualize the upper urinary tract in children with meningomyelocele
Authors: Abrahamsson Kate , Jodal Ulf , Stokland Eira , Nordvall Anders , Sillén Ulla
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the frequency of difficulties when using ultrasonography (US, commonly used to visualize the upper urinary tract) to evaluate renal length and dilatation in children and adolescents with meningomyelocele (MMC), who have excessive obesity or a distorted spine.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The records of all children with MMC investigated during 1996–2002 were assessed retrospectively and the last investigation used for analysis. In addition to the US results, the body mass index (BMI) and angulation of the spine were recorded.

RESULTS

Of the 160 children investigated, US was not evaluable in 46 (29%), i.e. in 35 (22%) for renal length, in one (1%) for dilatation and in 10 (6%) for both. In 99 patients with a straight spine and mild to moderate angulation, renal length was not measurable in 14 (14%), while dilatation was not evaluable in two (2%). In 61 patients with a severely angled spine, the corresponding values were 31 (51%) and nine (15%), respectively. In eight patients with a BMI of ≥ 27 kg/m2 and a straight spine, four of the investigations were not completely evaluable, while six were not in the eight patients with both a BMI of ≥ 27 kg/m2 and severe angulation.

CONCLUSION

Both severe spinal angulation and a BMI of ≥ 27 kg/m2 significantly reduced the possibility of evaluating the urinary tract by US. However, in an unselected group of children with MMC, dilatation could be evaluated in >90% and renal length in ≈ 70%.
Improving outcomes in early prostate cancer: Part I – adjuvant treatment
Authors: Mazhar Danish , Ngan Sarah , Waxman Jonathan
Published: September 2006

I have always stressed in the Journal the need for cooperation between urologist, and medical and radiation oncologists in the treatment of prostate cancer. The two opening mini‐reviews this month were written by medical oncologists (the papers were reviewed by two American urologists) and they present their views on how adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatments can improve outcomes in prostate cancer.

Genetic susceptibility to renal cancer is very much in our minds at present, and our increasing knowledge of this subject has allowed us to develop new understanding about the condition. Authors from France have written a very thorough and scientific review on low‐penetrance genetic susceptibility to renal cancer.

Finally, a review from Korea on the management of neurogenic bladder and quality of life in spinal cord injury completes this section.
The effect of neoadjuvant androgen suppression on prostate cancer‐related outcomes after high‐intensity focused ultrasound therapy
Authors: Uchida Toyoaki , Illing Rowland O. , Cathcart Paul J. , Emberton Mark
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect of neoadjuvant androgen suppression (AS) compared to no AS on cancer‐related outcomes after radical high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy for men with presumed organ‐confined prostate cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 1999 and January 2005, 250 patients underwent HIFU for presumed localized adenocarcinoma of the prostate; 154 had received neoadjuvant hormonal therapy and 96 had not. The primary outcome measure was treatment failure, as defined by the presence of prostate cancer on the biopsy taken 6 months after HIFU. Multiple logistic regression was used to examine relationships between the use of HIFU with and with no neoadjuvant AS and treatment failure.

RESULTS

The treatment failure rate was slightly lower in patients receiving neoadjuvant AS (31% vs 34%), but this was not statistically significant (P = 0.119).

CONCLUSION

In this unrandomized comparison between neoadjuvant or no AS before HIFU for men with presumed organ‐confined prostate cancer, there appeared to be little if any benefit associated with the previous administration of AS.
The effect of nephroureterectomy on glomerular filtration rate
Authors: Meyer Jon‐Paul , Delves George H. , Sullivan Mark E. , Keoghane Stephen R.
Published: September 2006

Authors from the UK studied the effect of nephroureterectomy on the GFR; they found that this operation had a profound effect on the future estimated GFR, and that the effect was compounded in those with risk factors for renal impairments.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of nephroureterectomy (NU) on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and to determine whether the estimated GFR after NU is influenced by age and other factors associated with renal impairment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively identified 131 patients who had had a NU at either of two UK institutions. Their serum creatinine levels were recorded before and after NU, along with comorbidity data, and from this their GFR before and after NU was estimated using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study Group equation.

RESULTS

At a median follow‐up of 5 years there was an 18% deterioration in estimated GFR in the 131 patients. The percentage deterioration in estimated GFR was greater in those aged ≥ 70 years than in those aged <70 years (20% vs 15% deterioration). Those with more risk factors for renal impairment had a greater percentage deterioration in estimated GFR than those with no such risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that NU has a profound effect on future estimated GFR, an effect that is further compounded in those with risk factors for renal impairment. This study therefore provides both the patient and the urologist with an idea of potential future renal function after NU and contributes greatly to preoperative counselling.
Mass screening for prostate cancer in patients with end‐stage renal disease: a comparative study
Authors: Wada Yoshihiro , Nakanishi Juro , Takahashi Wataru , Kai Nobuyuki , Nakayama Yoshiharu , Yamashita Yasuyuki , Honda Jiro , Ueda Shoichi
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To determine the usefulness of prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) screening for prostate cancer in patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD), as although serum PSA is effective in the early detection of this cancer in the general population, there are few reports of its utility in patients with ESRD.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Blood samples were obtained for PSA screening from April 2002 to September 2003; 1250 men with ESRD aged >50 years were compared with 1007 healthy control men aged >55 years, all in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. All men with a serum PSA level of >4.0 ng/mL were categorized as PSA‐positive and were further assessed, including a prostate biopsy.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significantly greater increase in PSA level with age in the ESRD group than in the healthy controls. The rate of cancer detection among men with a PSA level of >10 ng/mL was significantly higher in patients with ESRD than in healthy controls. Thirteen patients with ESRD and five healthy control men were finally diagnosed with prostate cancer.

CONCLUSION

The serum PSA level was slightly higher and the incidence of prostate cancer at higher PSA levels appeared to be greater in men with ESRD than in healthy controls. The findings of this large study suggest that PSA screening is useful for the diagnosis of prostate cancer in these patients.
Injectable polydimethylsiloxane for treating incontinence in children with the exstrophy‐epispadias complex: long‐term results
Authors: Burki Tariq , Hamid Rizwan , Ransley Phillip G. , Mushtaq Imran , Duffy Patrick G.
Published: September 2006

In this section authors from the UK describe their experience with plastic injections for treating incontinence in children with the exstrophy‐epispadias complex, finding that in the long term the success rate was reasonable, although the injections often needed to be repeated.

Authors from Brazil present an analysis of anomalies of the epididymis and processus vaginalis in human fetuses, and in patients with cryptorchidism treated and untreated with hCG.

OBJECTIVE

To present our experience with the use of injectable polydimethylsiloxane (MacroplastiqueTM, Uroplasty, Minneapolis, MI, USA) for treating incontinence in children with the exstrophy‐epispadias complex (EEC), as incontinence continues to be a challenging problem in such children, and although the primary management of EEC has developed over the last few decades, with early closure and reconstruction of the penis, achieving satisfactory continence status remains elusive.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the hospital records of 52 patients (41 boys and 11 girls, mean age at first injection 6.6 years, range 3.6–16.7) with EEC who had injections with Macroplastique between January 1991 and February 2004; 34 had bladder exstrophy and 18 primary epispadias. For this study we defined success as complete dryness with no use of pads or nappies. Improvement was defined as being occasionally wet but with dry intervals lasting ≥ 4 h.

RESULTS

The mean (range) follow‐up was 4.6 (0.5–9) years. Twenty patients had one injection, 10 had two, 13 had three, six had four, two had six and one had seven injections. In most patients a maximum of three injections predicted the outcome. The injection of Macroplastique was successful in nine patients (17%; with an annual follow‐up, two at 1–2 years, three at 2–5 years and four at >5 years), whilst 17 (33%) improved significantly (one at <1 year, two at 1–2 years, eight at 2–5 years and six at >5 years). Those patients comprised five of 18 (27%) with epispadias and four of 34 (12%) with exstrophy. A history of previous surgery and gender had no significant effect on the outcome. Overall half the patients benefited from the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

This series confirms that injection with Macroplastique is minimally invasive, durable in significantly many patients and has a reasonable success rate. A history of previous surgery and gender had no significant effect on the outcome. Patients with epispadias are more likely to benefit from an injection with Macroplastique than those with bladder exstrophy. A maximum of three injections is predictive with reasonable certainty of any benefit from the procedure.
Chronic prostatitis during puberty
Authors: Li Yuan , Qi Lin , Wen Jian Guo , Zu Xiong Bing , Chen Zhi Yong
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the features of chronic prostatitis (CP) during puberty and the effects of biofeedback on young males with this disease.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 40 patients were divided into two groups; group 1 included 25 pubertal patients with CP (mean age 16.5 years, sd 1.1) and group 2 was a control group including 15 patients (mean age 16.2 years, sd 1.2) with a normal lower urinary tract. National Institute of Health‐Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH‐CPSI) scores (three parts) were assessed individually in both groups. Expressed prostatic secretions and urine samples after prostate massage from group 1 were cultured to determine whether patients were infected with bacteria, and group 1 was categorized into various NIH types. Each patients in the two groups underwent urodynamics and group 1 were treated with biofeedback.

RESULTS

In group 1, there were one, three and 21 patients with type II, IIIA and IIIB prostatitis. The incidence of staccato voiding and detrusor‐sphincter dyssynergia (DSD), and the maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), postvoid residual urine volume (PVR), maximum detrusor pressure (Pdetmax) and maximum urethral closure pressure (MUCP) between the groups were significantly different (P < 0.05). The total NIH‐CPSI scores and all the subdomains between the groups before biofeedback were significantly different (P < 0.001). In group 1 the difference in NIH‐CPSI scores and Qmax before and after biofeedback was significant (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The main type of CP during puberty is IIIB; the dominating symptom is a voiding disorder. The impact on life and psychological effects are substantial. Pubertal boys with CP have pelvic floor dysfunction and several abnormal urodynamic values, i.e. staccato voiding, DSD, decreasing Qmax, and increasing Pdetmax and MUCP. The effect of biofeedback strategies for treating pubertal CP is satisfactory.
African‐American race is a predictor of prostate cancer detection: incorporation into a pre‐biopsy nomogram
Authors: Yanke Brent V. , Carver Brett S. , Bianco Fernando J. , Simoneaux Walter J. , Venable Dennis D. , Powell Isaac J. , Eastham James A.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVES

To construct a pre‐biopsy predictive model incorporating several clinical variables, including African‐American (AA) or Caucasian race, to predict the risk of prostate cancer detection on prostate biopsy, as traditionally AA men have had a higher incidence of prostate cancer than Caucasian men, but previous predictive tools for prostate cancer have not incorporated the effect of race.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We evaluated 9473 patients undergoing initial prostate biopsy at three equal‐access healthcare institutes from 1993 to 2003. At each biopsy session, patient age, race, serum prostate‐specific antigen level (PSA), digital rectal examination (DRE) findings, number of biopsy cores taken, year of biopsy, and pathological findings were recorded. A logistic regression model was constructed to evaluate predictors of cancer detection based on pre‐biopsy variables. The model was internally validated using the bootstrap statistical method, and a nomogram was constructed.

RESULTS

Prostate cancer was diagnosed in 1895 (33%) AA men and 991 (26%) Caucasians. AA men had a significantly higher mean serum PSA level than Caucasians, at 13.0 and 8.5 ng/mL, respectively (P < 0.001). The mean ages were similar between AA and Caucasian men (P = 0.23), but Caucasian men had a higher incidence of an abnormal DRE (P < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, age, race, year of biopsy, PSA level, DRE, and number of cores taken were all statistically significant (P < 0.001). Hazard ratios were (controlling for year of biopsy); age (1.30), Caucasian race (0.74), PSA level (1.47), DRE (1.75), and number of cores taken (1.19). The predicted model had a boot‐strapped concordance index of 0.75.

CONCLUSION

AA race remains an independent predictor of prostate cancer detection in men undergoing initial prostate biopsy. This nomogram is the first to individualise the risk by AA or Caucasian race in a predictive model for counselling men on their probability of having cancer at the time of their first biopsy.
A prospective observational trial of pelvic floor muscle training for female stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Balmforth James R. , Mantle Jill , Bidmead John , Cardozo Linda
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on bladder neck mobility in a prospective observational study, and to correlate any observed changes with objective, standardized outcome measures of the severity of stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Women with the symptom of SUI were recruited prospectively over a 3‐year period from a tertiary referral urogynaecology clinic in a teaching hospital. A group of 97 treatment‐naive women complaining of SUI and confirmed as having urodynamic SUI on video‐urodynamic assessment agreed to participate. Bladder neck mobility on perineal ultrasonography was assessed immediately before and on completing a 14‐week programme of ‘PFM rehabilitation’. Treatment outcome was assessed using a standardized pad‐test and a condition‐specific, validated quality‐of‐life questionnaire (King’s Health Questionnaire). Changes in functional anatomy were quantified using transperineal ultrasonography to measure the bladder neck position at rest, maximum PFM contraction and maximum Valsalva manoeuvre. Bladder neck rotational mobility from rest to maximum incursion and maximum excursion was calculated.

RESULTS

Treatment with an intensive package of PFMT and behavioural modification resulted in significant elevation of the bladder neck position at all three measured positions. Displacement of the bladder neck on Valsalva (rotational excursion) was reduced after treatment, suggesting increased levator ‘stiffness’. These changes in functional anatomy were associated with a statistically and clinically significant reduction in urine loss and improvement in condition‐specific quality of life.

CONCLUSION

The present results show that PFMT is an effective treatment for SUI and provide an important new insight into how dynamic pelvic floor anatomy can be modified by this widely used intervention.
The thermo‐expandable metallic stent for managing benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review
Authors: Armitage James N. , Rashidian Arash , Cathcart Paul J. , Emberton Mark , Van Der Meulen Jan H.P.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVES

To systematically review published reports of the safety, effectiveness and durability of a self‐expanding metallic prostatic stent (Memokath®, Engineers & Doctors A/S Ltd., Denmark) in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who are unfit for surgery.

METHODS

We systematically searched the Medline and Embase databases from 1992. The reference lists of included studies and the bibliographies of review articles were also searched. We contacted the manufacturer of Memokath for additional information. The primary outcomes were treatment failure (stent removal, replacement or repositioning) and urological symptom scores. Secondary outcomes were urodynamic indices and minor complications. Two reviewers independently assessed the methodological quality of the studies and extracted data. Data were synthesized using narrative techniques.

RESULTS

In all, 14 case series described the use of the Memokath stent in 839 men with BPH. All patients were at high operative risk. Most studies were of poor quality with an inadequate follow‐up. Treatment failure rates were 0–48% but the duration of follow‐up was often unclear. Five studies reported International Prostate Symptom Scores and found reductions of 11–19 points after stent insertion. All seven studies that reported on maximum urinary flow rates found that these increased, and the four that described residual urine volumes found that these decreased. Minor complications were inconsistently reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The Memokath stent can provide an effective treatment for BPH in men at high operative risk; it also appears to be safe, but inadequate follow‐up does not allow firm conclusions on stent durability.
Measuring the psychosocial impact of population‐based prostate‐specific antigen testing for prostate cancer in the UK
Authors: Brindle Lucy A. , Oliver Steven E. , Dedman Daniel , Donovan Jenny L. , Neal David E. , Hamdy Freddie C. , Lane Janet A. , Peters Tim J.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the psychosocial impact of participation in a population‐based prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) testing programme, akin to screening, and to explore the relationship between urinary symptoms reported before PSA testing and the response to the subsequent PSA result.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This prospective questionnaire study was nested within the case‐finding component of the ProtecT (prostate testing for cancer and treatment) feasibility study (ISRCTN20141297). Men aged 50–69 years from 18 general practices in three cities in the UK completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Short Form‐12 (SF‐12) Health Survey, and the International Continence Society ‘male’ (ICSmale) questionnaires before giving consent for a PSA test in a community clinic (baseline). Men with an ‘abnormal’ PSA result returned for further investigation (including biopsy) and repeated these questionnaires before biopsy.

RESULTS

At baseline, study participants had similar levels of anxiety and depression to the general male population. There was no increase in the HADS scores, or reduction in the SF‐12 mental health component summary score, on attendance at the biopsy clinic after receiving an ‘abnormal’ PSA result. Urinary symptoms were associated with levels of anxiety and depression before receiving a PSA result (baseline), but were not associated with anxiety and depression at biopsy independently of baseline scores. Therefore changes in anxiety or depression at biopsy did not appear to differ between those with and without urinary symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the findings of other studies that the deleterious effects of receiving an abnormal PSA result during population screening are not identified by generic health‐status questionnaires. Comparisons with outcomes of studies measuring cancer‐specific distress and using qualitative research methods raise the question of whether a prostate cancer screening‐specific instrument is required. However, a standardized measure of anxiety identified differences at baseline between those who did and did not report urinary symptoms. These findings suggest that it might be advisable to better inform men undergoing PSA testing about the uncertain relationship between urinary symptoms and prostate cancer, to minimize baseline levels of psychological distress.
LRIG1, a candidate tumour‐suppressor gene in human bladder cancer cell line BIU87
Authors: Yang Wei‐Min , Yan Ze‐Jun , Ye Zhang‐Qun , Guo Dong‐Sheng
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effects of LRIG1 on the growth, migration and invasion of bladder cancer cells and the mechanisms underlying such effects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The plasmid pLRIG1‐green fluorescence protein (GFP) was transfected into BIU87 bladder cancer cells by Lipofectamine2000 (Invitrogen, Groningen, the Netherlands), and the cells that expressed LRIG1 stably were screened out by G418. The changes in LRIG1 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) protein levels were measured by Western blot; growth curves were estimated by the tetrazolium (MTT) assay; then cell‐cell adhesion, cell‐matrix adhesion and cell invasion assays were used to measure proliferation, adhesion and invasion in LGIR1‐transfected and control cells.

RESULTS

The LRIG1 protein level in pLRIG1‐GFP transfected cells was significantly higher than that in control cells, while the EGFR protein level was significantly lower. pLRIG1‐GFP transfected cells had less proliferation than control cells. Contrasting with non‐LRIG1‐transfected cells, the invasion and cell‐matrix adhesion ability of pLRIG1‐GFP transfected cells decreased markedly, and conversely the homotypic cell‐cell adhesion ability was significantly higher.

CONCLUSIONS

LRIG1 might act as a tumour‐suppressor gene, participating in negative feedback control of EGFR expression, which inhibits bladder cancer cells from growth, migration and invasion.
Anatomical foundations and surgical manoeuvres for precise identification of the prostatovesical junction during robotic radical prostatectomy
Authors: Tewari Ashutosh K. , Rao Sandhya R.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To develop a technique to identify the bladder neck during robotic radical prostatectomy (RRP) using anatomical and patient studies, and to evaluate its efficacy during and after surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The data for this study were from 10 fresh cadaveric dissections and 50 consecutive athermal RRPs performed at our institution. We used a technique we term ‘the bimanual bladder neck pinch’.

RESULTS

The technique helped us to identify the prostatovesical junction and to decrease the time required to dissect the bladder neck, and the time for urethrovesical anastomosis. Urinary continence requiring 0–1 pads was 29% at 1 week , 62% at 6 weeks, 88% at 12 weeks, and 95% at 16 weeks. No patient in the series had a clinically significant leak or urinary retention.

CONCLUSIONS

Our technique of the ‘bimanual pinch’ is easy to learn and has reduced the difficulty of bladder neck transection. It improved the outcome both during and after RRP in our series.
Comparison between tamsulosin and alfuzosin on the expulsion phase of ejaculation in rats
Authors: Giuliano François A. , Clément Pierre , Denys Pierre , Alexandre Laurent , Bernabé Jacques
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of acute intravenous (i.v.) delivery of tamsulosin and alfuzosin on the contractions of bulbospongiosus muscles (BS) induced by central delivery of a serotonin agonist, 8‐hydroxy‐2‐(di‐n‐propylamino)tetralin (8‐OH‐DPAT), in anaesthetized rats, as an experimental model of the expulsion phase of ejaculation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Under urethane anaesthesia, adult male rats were implanted with a cannula into the lateral cerebral ventricle for intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection, and with recording electrodes in the BS for electromyogram (EMG) monitoring. Tamsulosin (1 µg/kg) and alfusozin (10 µg/kg) were injected i.v. and 15 min later 8‐OH‐DPAT (20 µg) was delivered i.c.v. BS‐EMG recording was continued for 30 min after i.c.v. 8‐OH‐DPAT. The area under the curve (AUC) of the BS cluster of contractions was determined as reflecting the energy of BS contractions.

RESULTS

After i.c.v. delivery of 8‐OH‐DPAT, there were rhythmic BS contractions in the form of clusters of bursts in vehicle‐, tamsulosin‐ and alfuzosin‐treated rats. The number of BS clusters was not altered by the α1‐blockers as compared with vehicle, but the AUC was significantly less in tamsulosin‐treated rats than in vehicle‐ or alfuzosin‐treated (both P < 0.05) rats.

CONCLUSION

Systemic injection of tamsulosin impaired BS contractile capacity whereas alfuzosin did not. This might explain anejaculation in men treated with tamsulosin.
Gene expression profiling of the human prostate zones
Authors: Van Der Heul‐Nieuwenhuijsen Leonie , Hendriksen Peter J.M. , Van Der Kwast Theo H. , Jenster Guido
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To investigate differences in gene expression in different zones of the prostate by microarray analyses, to better understand why aggressive tumours predominantly occur in the peripheral zone (PZ), whereas benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) occurs almost exclusively in the transition zone (TZ).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Expression profiling of both prostate zones was done by microarray analysis. Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) of the top 18 genes confirmed the microarray analyses. RT‐PCR with common cell‐type markers indicated that the differential expression between the zones was not caused by an unequal distribution of different cell types. Primary stromal and epithelial prostate cells were used to study cell type expression in the 12 highest differentially expressed zonal‐specific genes.

RESULTS

In all, 346 genes were identified as preferentially expressed in the TZ or PZ. A few of the TZ‐specific genes, including ASPA, FLJ10970 and COCH, were also stroma‐specific. Comparisons with other microarray studies showed that gene expression profiles of prostate cancer and BPH correlate with the expression profiles of the PZ and TZ, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Gene expression differs between the PZ and TZ of the prostate, and stromal–epithelial interactions might be responsible for the distinct zonal localization of prostate diseases.
Laparoscopic varicocele ligation in children and adolescents using isosulphan blue: a prospective randomized trial
Authors: Schwentner Christian , Radmayr Christian , Lunacek Andreas , Gozzi Christian , Pinggera Germar M. , Neururer Richard , Peschel Reinhard , Bartsch Georg , Oswald Josef
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate, in a randomized prospective trial in children and adolescents, the feasibility of isosulphan blue‐based lymphatic vessel preservation during laparoscopic varicocelectomy and its impact on the complication rate, as the operative management of varicoceles remains controversial.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 50 consecutive patients were randomly assigned to two laparoscopic varicocelectomy groups. The indications for surgery included scrotal pain and a difference in testicular size, as well as severe cosmetic impairment. All the patients had a laparoscopic varicocelectomy using three ports. Patients in group A had standard laparoscopy, while those in group B had additional isosulphan blue administered. After surgery, the patients were assessed at 3, 6 and 12 months for varicocele recurrence, hydrocele formation, atrophy, pain or other complications.

RESULTS

There were no intraoperative complications or conversions to open surgery. There were no adverse reactions, scrotal haematomas or atrophy. At 3 months after surgery, the incidence of hydrocele in group A was 20% whereas in group B no hydroceles were detected (P = 0.025); at 6 months the 20% still had hydroceles. One patient in each group had varicocele recurrence associated with persistent pain. In two patients in group B, blue pigmentation of the left hemiscrotum persisted at the 3‐month follow‐up but resolved by 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic repair of varicoceles using isosulphan blue helps to identify and preserve the lymphatic drainage. It prevents secondary hydrocele formation, the most common complication, with no supplementary risk to the patient. Also, testicular oedema causing impaired spermatogenesis can be avoided.
The use of robotically assisted surgery for treating urachal anomalies
Authors: Madeb Ralph , Knopf Joy K. , Nicholson Craig , Donahue Laurence A. , Adcock Brian , Dever David , Tan Beng Jit , Valvo John R. , Eichel Louis
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To report the management of urachal anomalies using a robotically assisted approach.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 2005 and February 2006, five patients (mean age 51 years, range 24–68) were diagnosed with urachal anomalies. Two basic robot‐assisted surgical approaches were used for excising the urachal anomalies: excision of the urachal remnant via partial cystectomy, and radical cystectomy for excision of urachal adenocarcinoma.

RESULTS

All five cases were successful and the excised specimens were assessed histologically. The short‐term oncological outcome in the three patients with histologically confirmed moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma showed no evidence of recurrent disease within a median interval of 8 months. Surveillance follow‐up cystoscopy in the patients who had a partial cystectomy showed a well‐healed bladder mucosa with no evidence of recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Radical excision of the urachal tract with partial cystectomy or radical cystectomy using the da Vinci robot is safe, effective and technically feasible.
The role of Ca2+ influx and intracellular Ca2+ release in the muscarinic‐mediated contraction of mammalian urinary bladder smooth muscle
Authors: Rivera Luis , Brading Alison F.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE

To study the involvement of extracellular Ca2+ and the properties of the intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) stores on the carbachol‐induced contraction of mammalian urinary bladder smooth muscle strips under polarized and depolarized conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Strips of bladder were suspended between platinum ring electrodes in a cylindrical organ bath (0.2 mL) and continuously superfused with Krebs’ solution at 1 mL/min. The effect of nifedipine, cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), thapsigargin, procaine, ryanodine and caffeine before and during a 10‐s application of 100 µm carbachol under polarized conditions were studied. The effect of these drugs was also assessed under depolarized conditions using a protocol that allowed a more detailed assessment of the role of [Ca2+]i stores, consisting of emptying the stores by exposure to Ca2+‐free solution, rapidly refilling them by a 10‐s application of 81.5 mm Ca2+ (priming), returning to the Ca2+‐free solution for 3 min and then applying 100 µm carbachol (10 s) in Ca2+‐free solution (store release).

RESULTS

Under polarized conditions, nifedipine and Ca2+ removal almost completely inhibited the carbachol‐induced contractions. CPA increased the amplitude and duration of both carbachol‐ and electrical field stimulation‐induced contractions. Although ryanodine had no inhibitory effect, caffeine and procaine significantly inhibited the carbachol‐induced contraction. Under depolarized conditions nifedipine blocked both priming and store release contractions. CPA, thapsigargin, procaine and ryanodine significantly increased the priming and inhibited the store release contractions. However, caffeine virtually abolished both priming and store release contractions.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that in guinea‐pig urinary bladder smooth muscle the Ca2+ necessary for contraction enters the cell through voltage‐dependent dihydropiridine‐sensitive Ca2+ channels and is pumped into an intracellular store that is released by carbachol. Under polarized conditions, the blockade of sarco‐endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATP‐ase (SERCA) with CPA increases [Ca2+]i and carbachol‐induced contractions. The effects of caffeine and procaine suggest that store release involves ryanodine receptors and calcium‐induced calcium release. Under depolarized conditions, Ca2+ entry is blocked by nifedipine and the stores diminish. Stored Ca2+ is also greatly reduced by the blockade of SERCA with either CPA or thapsigargin. Procaine, ryanodine and caffeine blocked the store release contractions, suggesting that this involves ryanodine receptors and calcium‐induced calcium release.
Prostate cells exposed to lycopene in vitro liberate lycopene‐enriched exosomes
Authors: Goyal Anuj , Delves George H. , Chopra Mridula , Lwaleed Bashir A. , Cooper Alan J.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVES

To investigate whether cellular exosomes liberated by prostatic cell lines in culture might be acting as the transport vehicles for the dietary antioxidant lycopene, known to be sequestered in the prostate gland and to reduce the risk of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer; its subsequent secretion into seminal plasma also confers protection to spermatozoa against oxidative free‐radical damage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using benign and malignant human prostatic cell culture models, we assessed the role that their exosomes (the putative in vitro analogues of prostasomes) might have in the transport of lycopene.

RESULTS

Cells exposed to lycopene in vitro accumulated the molecule and secrete lycopene‐enriched exosomes. This continued after the lycopene exposure was stopped. Extraction of lycopene from the exosomes, followed by high‐performance liquid chromatography, confirmed nanogram quantities of lycopene per milligram of exosomal protein. Packaging into exosomes for export resulted in reduced degradation of this labile antioxidant, and therefore maximized the effectiveness of delivery to the sites of action.

CONCLUSION

These results support the likelihood that these organelles act as the transport vehicles for this important lipophilic agent known to have a role in the chemoprevention of various urological pathologies such as BPH, prostate cancer and male infertility.
Animal and human tissue Na,K‐ATPase in normal and insulin‐resistant states: regulation, behaviour and interpretative hypothesis on NEFA effects
Authors: Iannello S. , Milazzo P. , Belfiore F.
Published: September 2006

The sodium(Na)‐ and potassium(K)‐activated adenosine‐triphosphatase (Na,K‐ATPase) is a membrane enzyme that energizes the Na‐pump by hydrolysing adenosine triphosphate and wasting energy as heat, so playing a role in thermogenesis and energy balance. Na,K‐ATPase regulation by insulin is controversial; in tissue of hyperglycemic‐hyperinsulinemic ob/ob mice, we reported a reduction, whereas in streptozotocin‐treated hypoinsulinemic‐diabetic Swiss and ob/ob mice we found an increased activity, which is against a genetic defect and suggests a regulation by hyperinsulinemia. In human adipose tissue from obese patients, Na,K‐ATPase activity was reduced and negatively correlated with body mass index, oral glucose tolerance test‐insulinemic area and blood pressure. We hypothesized that obesity is associated with tissue Na,K‐ATPase reduction, apparently linked to hyperinsulinemia, which may repress or inactivate the enzyme, thus opposing thyroid hormones and influencing thermogenesis and obesity development. Insulin action on Na,K‐ATPase, in vivo, might be mediated by the high level of non‐esterified fatty acids, which are circulating enzyme inhibitors and increase in obesity, diabetes and hypertension. In this paper, we analyse animal and human tissue Na,K‐ATPase, its level, and its regulation and behaviour in some hyperinsulinemic and insulin‐resistant states; moreover, we discuss the link of the enzyme with non‐esterified fatty acids and attempt to interpret and organize in a coherent view the whole body of the exhaustive literature on this complicated topic.
Weighted Likelihood for Semiparametric Models and Two‐phase Stratified Samples, with Application to Cox Regression
Authors: BRESLOW NORMAN E. , WELLNER JON A.
Published: September 2006

Abstract. We consider semiparametric models for which solution of Horvitz–Thompson or inverse probability weighted (IPW) likelihood equations with two‐phase stratified samples leads toconsistent and asymptotically Gaussian estimators of both Euclidean and non‐parametric parameters. For Bernoulli (independent and identically distributed) sampling, standard theory shows that the Euclidean parameter estimator is asymptotically linear in the IPW influence function. By proving weak convergence of the IPW empirical process, and borrowing results on weighted bootstrap empirical processes, we derive a parallel asymptotic expansion for finite population stratified sampling. Several of our key results have been derived already for Cox regression with stratified case–cohort and more general survey designs. This paper is intended to help interpret this previous work and to pave the way towards a general Horvitz–Thompson approach to semiparametric inference with data from complex probability samples.
A Mixed Model Approach for Geoadditive Hazard Regression
Authors: KNEIB THOMAS , FAHRMEIR LUDWIG
Published: September 2006

Abstract. Mixed model based approaches for semiparametric regression have gained much interest in recent years, both in theory and application. They provide a unified and modular framework for penalized likelihood and closely related empirical Bayes inference. In this article, we develop mixed model methodology for a broad class of Cox‐type hazard regression models where the usual linear predictor is generalized to a geoadditive predictor incorporating non‐parametric terms for the (log‐)baseline hazard rate, time‐varying coefficients and non‐linear effects of continuous covariates, a spatial component, and additional cluster‐specific frailties. Non‐linear and time‐varying effects are modelled through penalized splines, while spatial components are treated as correlated random effects following either a Markov random field or a stationary Gaussian random field prior. Generalizing existing mixed model methodology, inference is derived using penalized likelihood for regression coefficients and (approximate) marginal likelihood for smoothing parameters. In a simulation we study the performance of the proposed method, in particular comparing it with its fully Bayesian counterpart using Markov chain Monte Carlo methodology, and complement the results by some asymptotic considerations. As an application, we analyse leukaemia survival data from northwest England.
On Asymptotics for the Signless Noncentral q‐Stirling Numbers of the First Kind
Authors: Kyriakoussis A. , Vamvakari M. G.
Published: September 2006

In this paper, we derive asymptotic formulas for the signless noncentral q‐Stirling numbers of the first kind and for the corresponding series. The signless noncentral q‐Stirling numbers of the first kind appear as coefficients of a polynomial of q‐number [t]q, expressing the noncentral ascending q‐factorial of t of order m and noncentrality parameter k. In this paper, we have two main purposes. The first is to give an expression by which we obtain the asymptotic behavior of these coefficients, using the saddle point method. The second main purpose is to derive an asymptotic expression for the signless noncentral q‐Stirling of the first kind series by using the singularity analysis method. We then apply our first formula to provide asymptotic expressions for probability functions of the number of successes in m trials and of the number of trials until the occurrence of the nth success in sequences of Bernoulli trials with varying success probability which are both written in terms of the signless noncentral q‐Stirling numbers of the first kind. In addition, we present some numerical calculations using the computer program MAPLE indicating that our expressions are close to the actual values of the signless noncentral q‐Stirling numbers of the first kind and of the corresponding series even for moderate values of m.
Painlevé Classification of Binomial Type Ordinary Differential Equations of the Arbitrary Order
Authors: Sobolevsky S.
Published: September 2006

The complete Painlevé classification of the binomial ordinary differential equations of the arbitrary order n≥ 4 is built. Six classes of equations with Painlevé property are obtained. All of these equations are solved in terms of elementary functions and known Painlevé transcendents.
Series Solutions of Unsteady Boundary‐Layer Flows over a Stretching Flat Plate
Authors: Liao Shijun
Published: September 2006

An analytic technique, namely, the homotopy analysis method, is applied to give series solution of the unsteady boundary‐layer flows over an impermeable stretching plate. Different from all previous perturbation solutions, our series solutions are convergent in the whole time region 0 ≤τ < +∞. To the best of our knowledge, such kind of series solution has never been reported for this problem. Besides, two kinds of new similarity transformations about dimensionless time are proposed. Using these two different similarity transformations, we obtain the same convergent solution valid in the whole time region 0 ≤τ < +∞. Furthermore, it is shown that a nonlinear initial/boundary‐value problem can be replaced by an infinite number of linear boundary‐value subproblems.
Spatial Stability for Mixed Convection Boundary Layer over a Heated Horizontal Plate
Authors: Sengupta T. K. , Subbaiah K. Venkata
Published: September 2006

The spatial stability properties of a mixed convection boundary layer developing over a heated horizontal plate is studied here under linear and quasi‐parallel flow assumption. The main aim of the present work is to find out if there is a critical buoyancy parameter that would indicate the importance of heat transfer in destabilizing mixed convection boundary layers, when the buoyancy effect is given by Boussinesq approximation. The undisturbed flow used here is that given by the similarity solution of [1] that implies the wall temperature to vary as the inverse square root of the distance from the leading edge of the plate. The stability of this flow has been investigated by using the compound matrix method (CMM)—that allows finding all the modes in the chosen range in the complex wave number plane for spatial stability analysis. Presented neutral curves for mixed convection boundary layer show the existence of two types of disturbances present simultaneously, for large buoyancy parameter. One notices very unstable high‐frequency mode when the buoyancy parameter exceeds the above‐mentioned critical value. This unstable thermal mode is in addition to the hydrodynamic mode of isothermal flow given by corresponding similarity profile. The calculated critical buoyancy parameter is shown to qualitatively match with experimental results.
Deconstructing ‘gender and development’ for ‘identities of women’
Authors: Singh Shweta
Published: September 2006

In this article, the gender and development paradigm is critically reviewed and an alternative framework of research –identities of women– is proposed. This article contends that the gender and development paradigm is primarily guided by the tenets of Western feminisms and economic development. The article also highlights other limitations of the paradigm, including its preoccupation with male–female inequalities, macro generalisations and symbolic representation of women and a limited inclusion of local contexts. The identities of women framework proposes to address the limitations of the gender and development paradigm by studying women's conception of their environment and women's understanding of their relationship with these environments. The identities of women framework is informed by poststructuralist critique of feminism, cultural anthropology and a socio‐psychological approach to identity.
Leases with Purchase Options and Double Moral Hazard
Authors: Chau Derek K.Y. , Firth Michael , Srinidhi Bin
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  The purpose of this paper is to explain why leases have a purchase option and how the exercise price of this option is determined. We follow Demski and Sappington's (1991) approach by using a double moral hazard setting. One limitation of their model is that the agent has unlimited liability. The agent has to have enough wealth and the obligation to buy the firm when the principal decides to exercise the put option. In our paper, this problem is resolved by using a call option, which is a feature of many lease contracts. We show that leases with a purchase option can completely resolve the double moral hazard problem even if all the variables in the model are unverifiable. It is the threat of being the residual claimant that induces the lessor to provide an efficient level of effort. On the other hand, it is the opportunity of being the residual claimant that induces the lessee to maintain the asset efficiently. Finally, the model predicts that certain leased assets are not properly accounted for under the current accounting standards for leasing.
Arbitrage Bounds and the Time Series Properties of the Discount on UK Closed‐End Mutual Funds
Authors: Copeland Laurence
Published: September 2006

Abstract: In a dataset of weekly observations over the period since 1990, the discount on UK closed‐end mutual funds is shown to be nonstationary, but reverting to a nonzero long run mean. Although the long run discount could be explained by factors like management expenses etc., its short run fluctuations are harder to reconcile with an arbitrage‐free equilibrium. In time series terms, there is evidence of long memory in discounts consistent with a bounded random walk. This conclusion is supported by explicit nonlinearity tests, and by results which suggest the behaviour of the discount is perhaps best represented by one of the class of Smooth‐Transition Autoregressive (STAR) models.