bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of Thick Composite Cylinders
Authors: Roy A. K. , Tsai S. W.
Published: November 2009

A simple and efficient design method for thick composite cylinders is presented. Micromechanics and macromechanics are integrated by simple relations and the integrated micro and macromechanics approach has been adopted to enable the designers to instantly study the sensitivity of the micromechanical variables on the final design. The stress analysis is based on 3-dimensional elasticity by considering the cylinder in the state of generalized plane strain. The analysis for both open-ended (pipes) and closed-ended (pressure vessels) cylinders subjected to internal and external pressures and axial load is presented. The failure of the cylinders is predicted by using a 3-dimensional quadratic failure criterion. A degradation model is used to calculate burst pressures and the calculated burst pressures agree very well with the available experimental results, for both thin and thick cylinders. In optimizing multilayer cylinders, the 3-D quadratic criterion enables one to obtain the optimal layer sequence very easily. It is found that the layer sequence is very critical in optimizing, in particular, thick cylinders. In addition, the design parameters and material use efficiency of multilayer closed cylinders subjected to internal pressure have also been studied.
High Level Dynamic Testing and Analytical Correlations for a Small Bore Piping System
Authors: Lindquist M. R. , Anderson M. J. , Severud L. K. , Weiner E. O.
Published: November 2009

High-level dynamic testing of a prototypic insulated small bore diameter pipe system is described. The pipe system was supported by a minimum number of supports, with several combinations of supports and support locations tested. Load input consisted of a dynamic multifrequency time history and sinusoidal loading at increasing acceleration levels until gross deformation of the system occurred. Very high level pipe damping was exhibited when plastic response occurred. Post-test analyses were performed to assess the structural loading and response of the pipe system under the dynamic load input. Several elastic and elasto-plastic analysis failure prediction methods were used, along with simplified inelastic analysis.
Elastic-Plastic Analysis of Hydride Blisters in Zircaloy-2 Pressure Tubes
Authors: Kim Y. J. , Vanderglas M. L.
Published: November 2009

The possibility that stresses might be produced as a consequence of expansion resulting from the transformation of zirconium to zirconium hydride in the form of blisters was investigated. Parametric elastic-plastic finite element analyses were performed because the physical properties near the blister were not clearly defined. Results show that significant stresses can arise from the volume expansion of hydride blisters, being largely compressive within the blister, tensile outside.
A Methodology for Evaluating the Integrity of Longitudinally Seam-Welded Steam Pipes in Fossil Plants
Authors: Viswanathan R. , Dooley R. , Saxena A.
Published: November 2009

Two recent catastrophic failures of steam pipes have generated great concern about the integrity of steam pipes in fossil power plants. In the wake of these failures, extensive pipe inspections have been carried out by utilities. Numerous flaws have been found, but the methodologies for disposition of flawed piping have varied widely. The failure scenario has emerged to be one involving creep crack growth of preexisting flaws located at the weld fusion line. The crack growth susceptibility itself has been found to be a function of the metallurgical condition of the steel. Based on creep damage initiation and crack growth methodologies developed by Electric Power Research Institute under a variety of projects, an overall approach to assessing pipe integrity and for determining inspection intervals has been constructed. This paper will report on the details of this approach.
Residual Life Assessment for Boiler Pressure Components Based on Measurements of Creep Strains
Authors: Mlynarski F. , Taler J.
Published: November 2009

This paper discusses different methods for calculating the residual life for boiler pressure components operating under creep conditions, based on tube outside diameter strain measurements. These measurements were made for over 20 yr. The methods have been applied to the residual life calculation for pipelines of 20 or more years of service. Then the results have been compared.
Simplified Estimation of Creep-Rupture Strength for Notched Tensile Specimens of Austenitic Stainless Steels
Authors: Konish H. J.
Published: November 2009

A method for characterizing the creep-rupture strength of notched tensile specimens subjected to constant membrane loading has been developed. This method resolves the apparent contradiction between notch-strengthening and notch-weakening by employing the average von Mises equivalent stress on the net section of a notched specimen as its true rupture strength. The nominal net section equivalent stress can be determined by elastic analysis. Seven different notched specimen geometries of 304 and 316 stainless steel, assessed by this approach, exhibit varying degrees of notch-weakening at test temperatures from 1000°F (538°C) to 1500°F (816°C). The extent of notch-weakening is slightly dependent on specimen material and test temperature but the principal factor appears to be the degree to which the notch constrains inelastic flow on the net section. The effects of notch constraint on notch-weakening are well characterized by the peak stress triaxiality factor.
Measurements of Thermal Contact Resistance for Steel Layered Vessels
Authors: Tauchert T. R. , Leigh D. C. , Tracy M. A.
Published: November 2009

An experimental procedure for measuring the thermal contact resistance of layered specimens under normal stress is described. Results for as-rolled SA-516-70 steel layers are used to establish a functional relationship between contact resistance and stress. The relationship is employed in a finite element formulation in order to predict transient temperature distributions. Agreement between the finite element results and the experimentally determined temperature profiles is good.
J-Integral Estimation With the Stiffness Gradient Method for Power Law Hardening Materials
Authors: Derbalian G. , Lange C.
Published: November 2009

A simplified method for determining the J-integral for elastic-plastic conditions using the stiffness gradient method is described. Power law hardening material is shown to simplify the J-integral estimation, rendering elastic and fully plastic J solution terms. Numerical results are obtained for an interior complete circumferential crack in a pipe and compared to the analogous EPRI handbook solution. Because the stiffness gradient method is based on external displacement and forces, and not directly dependent on the stresses, it is sufficient to use relatively coarse finite element meshes to detemine the J-integral instead of highly refined and costly meshes required in most conventional J-integral computations.
Flexibility Factors and Stress Indices for Piping Components With D/T ≧ 100 Subjected to In-Plane or Out-of-Plane Moment
Authors: Fujimoto T. , Soh T.
Published: November 2009

The finite element analyses are carried out for the several piping components (D/T ≧ 100) subjected to in-plane or out-of-plane moment. For the stress evaluation of the chemical plant piping systems, ANSI B31.3 is usually applied. But the stress intensification factors and flexibility factors in this code are mainly for a heavy-wall-thickness pipe, so it is necessary to reconsider these factors for a thin-wall-thickness pipe with a large diameter. In our study, several finite element analyses using MSC/NASTRAN program were performed on the pipe bends (elbow or miter bend, 0.01 ≦ h ≦ 0.2) and the unreinforced fabricated tees (50 ≦ D/Tr ≦ 300, 0.5 ≦ d/D ≦ 0.95, 0.25 ≦ Tb/Tr ≦ 0.95), and the empirical formulas for the flexibility factors and the stress indices, due to out-of-plane or in-plane moment, were proposed. Experimental stress analyses for the piping components with D/Tr = 127 were also carried out, and it was confirmed that the results agreed well with the numerical ones.
On the Statics of Supports and the Geometry of Wrinkling of Large Spherical Pressure Vessels
Authors: Szyszkowski W. , Glockner P. G.
Published: November 2009

Thin-walled spherical pressure vessels, the bending and compressive stiffnesses of which are small in comparison with their tensile stiffness, are discussed using membrane theory. In the first part of the paper linear membrane theory is used to analyze the statics of supports for large spherical pressure vessels. The reactions from such supports which are tangential or almost tangential to the pressure vessel surface, require reinforcements so as to distribute the reactions into the wall without causing undue stress concentrations and/or wrinkling. The size and contour of such reinforcing elements depend, of course, on the magnitude of the reactions as well as the internal pressure. In the second part of the paper, nonlinear membrane theory is used to analyze the geometry of wrinkled domains in such membrane pressure vessels. Using an Eulerian formulation, the parameters of the first and second fundamental forms of the surface are treated as key variables and are determined from the analysis as functions of the curvilinear coordinates referred to the current deformed configuration. The solution technique is applied to a simple example.
On the Design of Horizontal Pressure Vessels
Authors: Widera G. E. O. , Sang Z. F. , Natarajan R.
Published: November 2009

The objective of this paper is to provide analysis results of displacements and localized stresses in horizontal pressure vessels which were determined by using the three-dimensional finite element method. The analysis models utilized realistic geometry, including saddle supports, vessel heads and actual boundary conditions. The results give a detailed distribution of displacements and local stresses in the saddle support area, and show that the maximum stress is located at the horn of the saddle. A comparison of the results for different saddle locations, (A/L), was performed, and a reasonable location for the supports is suggested. Also, examples of parametric analyses and dimensionless design curves for calculating localized stresses are presented. The latter results should prove to be an invaluable aid in the generation of a new design code for horizontal vessels.
Seismic-Induced Impeller/Blade Rubs in Rotating Power Plant Components
Authors: Padovan J. , Choy F. K. , Batur C. , Canilang L.
Published: November 2009

During seismic or blade/impeller loss events, the potential for rubs in rotating nuclear and fossil fuel power plant components is quite high. Generally, such events involve interactions between blade/impeller tips and machinery components. This also includes the possibility of seal casing rubs. The paper will develop methodologies to: (i) evaluate the blade impeller-casing rub event; (ii) establish the associated stress, strain and force fields; (iii) enable signature analysis defining blade/impeller/seal particpation; and (iv) establish procedure enabling evaluation of blade/impeller/seal fatigue life. Additionally, the paper will present benchmarking examples of prototypical power plant components, i.e., feedwater pumps and steam turbines.
Development of a Pipe Rupture
Authors: Best T. R.
Published: November 2009

An approach to the problem of predicting reaction forces that can occur during pipe failure is provided. Use is made of experimental data measuring crack propagation speed to determine the pipe rupture forces. The results of this paper are for pipelines carrying subcooled liquid water, but may be applied to other fluids. The reaction forces during pipe failure are compared with steady-state values.
Consensus statement on epidemiological studies of medical conditions in tennis, April 2009
Authors: Pluim B M , Fuller C W , Batt M E , Chase L , Hainline B , Miller S , Montalvan B , Renström P , Stroia K A , Weber K , Wood T O
Published: November 2009

Background:

The reported incidence, severity and nature of injuries sustained in tennis vary considerably between studies. While some of these variations can be explained by differences in sample populations and conditions, the main reasons are related to differences in definitions and methodologies employed in the studies.

Objective:

This statement aims to review existing consensus statements for injury surveillance in other sports in order to establish definitions, methods and reporting procedures that are applicable to the specific requirements of tennis.

Design:

The International Tennis Federation facilitated a meeting of 11 experts from seven countries representing a range of tennis stakeholders. Using a mixed methods consensus approach, key issues related to definitions, methodology and implementation were discussed and voted on by the group during a structured 1-day meeting. Following this meeting, two members of the group collaborated to produce a draft statement, based on the group discussions and voting outcomes. Three revisions were prepared and circulated for comment before the final consensus statement was produced.

Results:

A definition of medical conditions (injuries and illnesses) that should be recorded in tennis epidemiological studies and criteria for recording the severity and nature of these conditions are proposed. Suggestions are made for recording players’ baseline information together with recommendations on how medical conditions sustained during match play and training should be reported.

Conclusions:

The definitions and methodology proposed for recording injuries and illnesses sustained during tennis activities will lead to more consistent and comparable data being collected. The surveillance procedures presented here may also be applicable to other racket sports.
AMPLITUDE CONTROL OF SPONTANEOUS EMISSION
Authors: AHMED RIZWAN , AZIM TASNIM
Published: November 2009

We study the control of spontaneous emission in four-level atomic system driven by two fields. We show that with the variation of dynamical variable, namely, Rabi frequency, a wide variety of spectral behavior can be obtained, including extreme spectral narrowing. In our system, the spectrum of the spontaneous emission is independent of the phase associated with microwave field.
THE EFFECT OF POSITION DEPENDENT EFFECTIVE MASS OF HYDROGENIC IMPURITIES IN PARABOLIC GaAs/GaAlAs QUANTUM DOTS IN A STRONG MAGNETIC FIELD
Authors: PETER A. JOHN
Published: November 2009

The binding energy of shallow hydrogenic impurities in parabolic GaAs/GaAlAs quantum dots is calculated as a function of dot radius in the influence of magnetic field. The binding energy has been calculated following a variational procedure within the effective-mass approximation. Calculations are presented with constant effective-mass and position dependent effective masses. A finite confining potential well with depth is determined by the discontinuity of the band gap in the quantum dot and the cladding. The results show that the impurity binding energy (i) increases as the dot radius decreases for the infinite case, (ii) reaches a peak value around 1R* as the dot radius decreases and then diminishes to a limiting value corresponding to the radius for which there are no bound states in the well for the infinite case, and (iii) increases with the magnetic field. Also it is found that (i) the use of constant effective mass (0.067 m0) is justified for dot sizes ≥ a* where a* is the effective Bohr radius which is about 100 Å for GaAs , in the estimation of ionization energy and (ii) the binding energy shows complicated behavior when the position dependent mass is included for the dot size ≤ a*. These results are compared with the available existing literatures.
TWO ADAPTIVE SYNCHRONIZATION METHODS OF UNCERTAIN CHEN SYSTEM
Authors: WANG XINGYUAN , XU MIN , ZHANG HUAGUANG
Published: November 2009

This article addresses the adaptive synchronization problem of two Chen systems with uncertain parameters. Two adaptive synchronization methods are designed. In the two methods, we use only two controllers to synchronize uncertain Chen systems. It is theoretically proved that these two methods can make uncertain Chen systems asymptotically synchronized and identify the unknown parameters. Numerical simulations show the effectiveness of the proposed methods further. The comparisons of these two methods show: The method of theorem 1 is easier and more feasible than that of theorem 2, and the synchronization results are better.
ON THE ANOMALOUS STEADY-STATE DARK CONDUCTIVITY INa-SeFILMS
Authors: QAMHIEH N. , OBAIDAT I. M. , HAMED F.
Published: November 2009

Thin films of amorphous selenium ( a-Se ) have been prepared by thermal evaporation. DC conductivity measurements were carried out on these films in the temperature range between 60 and -50° C . Above room temperature, the dark conductivity is thermally activated as usually observed in chalcogenide semiconductors. At low temperatures, the unexpected increase in the dark currents could be attributed to the phase change in the a-Se film. The current–voltage, I–V, curves showed a phase transition temperature of about 10°C.
Prospects of Nanostructure‐Based Solar Cells for Manufacturing Future Generations of Photovoltaic Modules
Authors: Gupta N. , Alapatt G. F. , Podila R. , Singh R. , Poole K. F.
Published: November 2009

We present a comprehensive review on prospects for one‐, two‐, or three‐dimensional nanostructure‐based solar cells for manufacturing the future generation of photovoltaic (PV) modules. Reducing heat dissipation and utilizing the unabsorbed part of the solar spectrum are the key driving forces for the development of nanostructure‐based solar cells. Unrealistic assumptions involved in theoretical work and the tendency of stretching observed experimental results are the primary reasons why quantum phenomena‐based nanostructures solar cells are unlikely to play a significant role in the manufacturing of future generations of PV modules. Similar to the invention of phase shift masks (to beat the conventional diffraction limit of optical lithography) clever design concepts need to be invented to take advantage of quantum‐based nanostructures. Silicon‐based PV manufacturing will continue to provide sustained growth of the PV industry.
On Exponential Dichotomy of Variational Difference Equations
Authors: Sasu Bogdan
Published: November 2009

We give very general characterizations for uniform exponential dichotomy of variational difference equations. We propose a new method in the study of exponential dichotomy based on the convergence of some associated series of nonlinear trajectories. The obtained results are applied to difference equations and also to linear skew‐product flows.
A Note on Implicit Functions in Locally Convex Spaces
Authors: Tavernise Marianna , Trombetta Alessandro
Published: November 2009

An implicit function theorem in locally convex spaces is proved. As an application we study the stability, with respect to a parameter "Equation missing", of the solutions of the Hammerstein equation "Equation missing" in a locally convex space.
On the Specific Heat Capacity of CuO Nanofluid
Authors: Zhou Le-Ping , Wang Bu-Xuan , Peng Xiao-Feng , Du Xiao-Ze , Yang Yong-Ping
Published: November 2009

This paper reviews briefly the definition of heat capacity and clarifies the defined specific heat capacity and volumetric heat capacity. The specific heat capacity and volumetric heat capacity, with our measured experimental data for CuO nanofluids, are discussed as an illustrating example. The result indicates that the specific heat capacity of CuO nanofluid decreases gradually with increasing volume concentration of nanoparticles. The measurement and the prediction from the thermal equilibrium model exhibit good agreement. The other simple mixing model fails to predict the specific heat capacity of CuO nanofluid. The nanoparticle size effect and solid-liquid interface effect on the specific heat capacity of nanofluid are discussed.
An Examination of the Psychosocial Factors Influencing Colorectal Cancer Patients' Communication of Colorectal Cancer Patient Risk with Their Siblings
Authors: Lawsin Catalina , DuHamel Katherine , Itzkowitz Steven , Brown Karen , Lim Helen , Jandorf Lina
Published: November 2009

This study examined psychosocial factors influencing colorectal cancer (CRC) patients' communication with their first-degree relatives regarding their CRC risk. Among a sample of CRC patients who were members of a colon registry in New York (n = 127), 60% reported discussing CRC risk with their siblings. These discussions were related to the CRC patients' age of diagnosis, such that those diagnosed before age 45 years were more likely to communicate with their siblings about CRC risk. Despite advances made in CRC prevention, compliance with screening recommendations among individuals who may be at familial risk for the disease is low. Perhaps this underrepresentation reflects how CRC patients communicate with their first-degree relatives about their potential risk for the disease. This study examined the psychosocial factors influencing whether CRC patients communicate with their siblings about CRC risk. The sample included CRC patients with siblings who enrolled in a colon disease registry at a NYC metropolitan hospital. Participants completed questionnaires regarding their current psychosocial functioning, perceived risk of sibling's development of CRC, and communication of CRC risk with their siblings. Patients were predominantly Caucasian, with a mean age of 60.4 years. Of the 127 patients, 60% engaged in discussions with their siblings regarding their CRC risk. Patients diagnosed with CRC before the age of 45 years were more likely to discuss the risk of CRC with their siblings (P < 0.01). These data suggest that CRC patients may serve as an effective vehicle to promote CRC screening and support the need for health care providers to not only educate patients of the familial risk of CRC, but to also encourage these patients to communicate this information with their siblings. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18(11):2907–12)
Energy Intake and Risk of Postmenopausal Breast Cancer: An Expanded Analysis in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial (PLCO) Cohort
Authors: Sue Laura Y. , Schairer Catherine , Ma Xiaomei , Williams Craig , Chang Shih-Chen , Miller Anthony B. , McCarty Catherine A. , Willcox Bradley J. , Ziegler Regina G.
Published: November 2009

Although animal experiments have consistently shown a positive relationship between breast cancer and energy intake, evidence from human studies remains inconclusive. In the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial cohort, 29,170 women, ages 55 to 75 years, who successfully completed a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) at entry (1993-2001), were followed through 2007, and 1,319 incident breast cancers were ascertained (median time from FFQ completion to diagnosis, 4.4 years). Women in the highest quartile of energy intake, relative to the lowest, had modestly, but significantly, increased breast cancer risk [multivariate relative risk (RR), 1.21; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.03-1.42; Ptrend = 0.03]. The inclusion of body mass index and physical activity in the model reduced risk slightly (RR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.00-1.39; Ptrend = 0.07). However, in similar analyses using energy intake from a FFQ administered approximately five years after entry (27,428 women; 806 incident breast cancers; median time from FFQ completion to diagnosis, 2.7 years), women in the highest and lowest quartiles of energy intake had similar risk. When follow-up time after the first FFQ was divided into three 4-year periods, the multivariate RRs for high versus low energy intake increased from 1.21 to 1.37 to 1.55 with increasing time since dietary assessment. Although the divergent results for the two FFQs could be due to subtle questionnaire differences, our findings suggest a modest positive association between energy intake and postmenopausal breast cancer that strengthens with time since dietary assessment. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18(11):2842–50)
Association of Breast Cancer Susceptibility Variants with Risk of Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Couch Fergus J. , Wang Xianshu , McWilliams Robert R. , Bamlet William R. , de Andrade Mariza , Petersen Gloria M.
Published: November 2009

Background: A number of susceptibility genes are common to breast and pancreatic cancer. Recently, several breast cancer susceptibility loci have been identified through genome-wide association studies. Here we evaluated possible associations between these single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) and pancreatic cancer risk.

Methods: Ten SNPs from FGFR2, TOX3, MAP3K1, H19, LSP1, chromosome 8q24, CASP8, and LUM were investigated for associations with pancreatic cancer risk following genotyping in 1,143 Caucasian individuals with pancreatic adenocarcinoma and 1,097 unaffected controls from a clinic-based pancreatic cancer case-control study.

Results: CASP8 rs1045485 [odds ratio (OR), 0.78; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.65-0.9; P = 0.005] and MAP3K1 rs889312 (OR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.74-0.97; P = 0.017) showed evidence of association with risk of pancreatic cancer. The CASP8 rs1045485 association was evident in ever smokers (P = 0.002), but not in nonsmokers (P = 0.55), and the effect was strongest in heavy smokers (OR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.29-0.93; P = 0.03). In contrast the MAP3K1 rs889312 association was only evident in nonsmokers (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.64-0.95; P = 0.01). In addition, evaluation of the influence of the 10 SNPs on survival detected significant associations between outcome for locally advanced pancreatic cancer cases and both 8q rs6983561 (P = 0.045) and LUM rs2268578 (P = 0.02).

Conclusion: Association studies in a large pancreatic case-control study indicate that SNPs associated with breast cancer may also be associated with pancreatic cancer susceptibility and survival. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18(11):3044–8)
The Prognostic Significance of Tryptophanyl-tRNA Synthetase in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Ghanipour Arezo , Jirström Karin , Pontén Fredrik , Glimelius Bengt , Påhlman Lars , Birgisson Helgi
Published: November 2009

Background: Tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase (TrpRS) is an aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase involved in protein synthesis and regulation of RNA transcription and translation and is an inhibitor of angiogenesis. TrpRS has been shown to be differentially expressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) and has thus been identified as a potential prognostic marker. The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation of TrpRS to the prognosis of patients diagnosed and treated for CRC within a defined population.

Methods: With a polyclonal, monospecific IgG antibody, TrpRS expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays with tumors from a population-based CRC cohort (n = 320). Staining intensity and fraction of positive tumor cells were recorded. A Cox multivariate model including TrpRS expression, carcinoembryonic antigen, age, stage, tumor differentiation, and lymphatic and vascular vessel invasion was used to calculate the hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for time to recurrence, disease-free survival, and overall survival.

Results: Low expression of TrpRS correlated to increased risk for lymph node metastasis (P = 0.025) and a more advanced tumor stage (P = 0.001). Patients with tumors and increased levels of TrpRS expression had better survival than patients with low expression levels. Multivariate analyses revealed significantly better disease-free survival (relative risk, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.38-0.95) for patients with high expression than for patients with low expression of TrpRS. For colon cancer patients, a reduced risk for recurrence was seen in patients with increased TrpRS expression (relative risk, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.07-0.80).

Conclusion: Low expression of TrpRS in tumor tissue correlates with increased risk for recurrence and worse survival in patients with CRC. This can be related to its antiangiogenic properties and could aid in the future selection of new drugs in the treatment of CRC. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18(11):2949–56)
Men with Low Serum Cholesterol Have a Lower Risk of High-Grade Prostate Cancer in the Placebo Arm of the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial
Authors: Platz Elizabeth A. , Till Cathee , Goodman Phyllis J. , Parnes Howard L. , Figg William D. , Albanes Demetrius , Neuhouser Marian L. , Klein Eric A. , Thompson Ian M. , Kristal Alan R.
Published: November 2009

Background: Several prospective studies suggest that use of cholesterol-lowering statin drugs is inversely associated with advanced stage and possibly high-grade prostate cancer. One study reported that men with low cholesterol had a lower risk of high-grade prostate cancer. Given these findings, we investigated the association between low serum cholesterol and prostate cancer risk in the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial.

Methods: We conducted a cohort study of 5,586 men ages ≥55 years who were randomized to the placebo arm of the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial between 1993 and 1996. Serum cholesterol was measured enzymatically at entry. By the end of follow-up, 1,251 prostate cancer cases were confirmed. We used logistic regression to calculate the multivariable odds ratio (OR) of total, and Gleason 2 to 6 (n = 993), 7 (n = 199), and 8 to 10 (n = 59) prostate cancer comparing low serum (normal, <200 mg/dL) to high-serum (borderline and elevated cholesterol, ≥200 mg/dL) cholesterol.

Results: Men with low cholesterol had a lower risk of Gleason 8 to 10 prostate cancer [OR, 0.41; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.22-0.77] than men with high cholesterol. No association was present for prostate cancer overall (OR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.85-1.11), Gleason 2 to 6 disease (OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.89-1.18), or Gleason 7 disease (OR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.69-1.24).

Conclusion: These prospective results support that men with low cholesterol have a reduced risk of high-grade prostate cancer. These and other contemporary data that suggest that cholesterol metabolism should be investigated further in the etiology of prostate cancer. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18(11):2807–13)
Impact of Multiple Alcohol Dehydrogenase Gene Polymorphisms on Risk of Upper Aerodigestive Tract Cancers in a Japanese Population
Authors: Oze Isao , Matsuo Keitaro , Suzuki Takeshi , Kawase Takakazu , Watanabe Miki , Hiraki Akio , Ito Hidemi , Hosono Satoyo , Ozawa Taijiro , Hatooka Shunzo , Yatabe Yasuhi , Hasegawa Yasuhisa , Shinoda Masayuki , Kiura Katsuyuki , Tajima Kazuo , Tanimoto Mitsune , Tanaka Hideo
Published: November 2009

Alcohol intake is positively associated with the risk of upper aerodigestive tract (UAT) cancer. The genes that encode alcohol-metabolizing enzymes, primarily alcohol dehydrogenases (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDH), are polymorphic. In Caucasians, significant associations between polymorphisms in ADH1B (rs1229984) and ADH1C (rs698 and rs1693482), and UAT cancer have been observed, despite strong linkage disequilibrium among them. Moreover, UAT cancer was significantly associated with rs1573496 in ADH7, and not with rs1984362 in ADH4. However, little evidence is available concerning ADH4 or ADH7 polymorphisms in Asian populations. We conducted a matched case-control study to clarify the role of ADH polymorphisms in a Japanese population. Cases and controls were 585 patients with UAT cancer and 1,170 noncancer outpatients. Genotyping for ADHs and ALDH2 was done using TaqMan assays. Associations between polymorphisms and UAT cancer were assessed by odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals using conditional logistic regression models that adjusted for age, sex, smoking, drinking, and ALDH2. Adjusted odds ratios were significant for rs4148887 and rs3805322 in ADH4, rs1229984 in ADH1B, rs698 and rs1693482 in ADH1C, and rs284787, rs1154460, and rs3737482 in ADH7. We also observed that ADH7 rs3737482 and ADH4 rs4148887 had independently and statistically significant effects on UAT cancer. The magnitude of effect of these ADH polymorphisms was greater in subjects who were heavy drinkers, heavy smokers, and had esophageal cancer. These findings show that multiple ADH gene polymorphisms were associated with UAT cancer in this Japanese population. Further studies in various ethnicities are required. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18(11):3097–102)
Testosterone and Biological Characteristics of Breast Cancers in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Secreto Giorgio , Venturelli Elisabetta , Meneghini Elisabetta , Greco Marco , Ferraris Cristina , Gion Massimo , Zancan Matelda , Fabricio Aline S.C. , Berrino Franco , Cavalleri Adalberto , Micheli Andrea
Published: November 2009

Androgens are involved in the development of breast cancer, although the mechanisms remain unclear. To further investigate androgens in breast cancer, we examined the relations between serum testosterone and age, body mass index (BMI), tumor size, histologic type, grade, axillary node involvement, estrogen receptor status, progesterone receptor status, and HER2 overexpression in a cross-sectional study of 592 postmenopausal breast cancer patients. Mean testosterone differences according to categories of patient and tumor characteristics were assayed by Fisher's or Kruskall-Wallis test as appropriate; adjusted odds ratios (OR) of having a tumor characteristic by testosterone tertiles were estimated by logistic regression. Testosterone concentrations were significantly higher in women with BMI ≥30 versus BMI <25. ORs of having a tumor ≥2 cm increased significantly with increasing testosterone tertiles, and the association was stronger in women ≥65 years. The OR of having infiltrating ductal carcinoma was significantly higher in the highest compared with the lowest testosterone tertile. ORs of having estrogen receptor– and progesterone receptor–negative versus estrogen receptor– and progesterone receptor–positive tumors decreased significantly with increasing testosterone tertiles. In women ≥70 years, those with high testosterone had a significantly greater OR of HER2-negative cancer than those with low testosterone. These results support previous findings that high-circulating testosterone is a marker of hormone-dependent breast cancer. The age-related differences in the association of testosterone with other disease and patient characteristics suggest that breast cancers in older postmenopausal women differ markedly from those in younger postmenopausal women. The relationship between testosterone and HER2 status in the oldest patients merits further investigation. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18(11):2942–8)
Reproducibility of Fifteen Urinary Estrogens and Estrogen Metabolites over a 2- to 3-Year Period in Premenopausal Women
Authors: Eliassen A. Heather , Ziegler Regina G. , Rosner Bernard , Veenstra Timothy D. , Roman John M. , Xu Xia , Hankinson Susan E.
Published: November 2009

Endogenous estrogens play an integral role in the etiology of breast, endometrial, and, possibly, ovarian cancers. Estrogen metabolism yields products that are potentially both estrogenic and genotoxic, yet individual metabolic patterns are just beginning to be explored in epidemiologic studies. Within the Nurses' Health Study II, we examined reproducibility of 15 urinary estrogens and estrogen metabolites (EM) among 110 premenopausal women with three luteal-phase urine samples collected over 3 years. EM were measured by a recently developed high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS2) method with high sensitivity, specificity, and precision. We assessed Spearman correlations and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) across the three samples. Correlations between urinary estrone or estradiol and EM were only modest (r = 0.1-0.5). The 2- and 4-hydroxylation pathways were highly correlated (r = 0.9) but weakly inversely correlated with the 16-hydroxylation pathway (r = −0.2). Within-woman reproducibility over time was fairly high for the three pathways, with ICCs ranging from 0.52 (16-hydroxylation pathway) to 0.72 (2-hydroxylation pathway). ICCs were similarly high for 2-catechols and the individual catechols (ICCs = 0.58-0.72). Individual and grouped methylated 2-catechols had fairly high ICCs (0.51-0.62), but methylated 4-catechols had low ICCs (0.14-0.27). These data indicate that, in general, urinary EM levels vary substantially among individuals compared with intraindiviual variability. Within-person reproducibility over time for most EM measures is comparable to or better than that for well-vetted biomarkers such as plasma cholesterol and, in postmenopausal women, estradiol. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18(11):2860–8)
Variation in the FGFR2 Gene and the Effects of Postmenopausal Hormone Therapy on Invasive Breast Cancer
Authors: Prentice Ross L. , Huang Ying , Hinds David A. , Peters Ulrike , Pettinger Mary , Cox David R. , Beilharz Erica , Chlebowski Rowan T. , Rossouw Jacques E. , Caan Bette , Ballinger Dennis G.
Published: November 2009

Background: Breast cancer concern is a major reason for the recent marked reduction in use of postmenopausal hormone therapy, although equally effective means of controlling menopausal symptoms are lacking. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) gene are substantially associated with postmenopausal breast cancer risk and could influence hormone therapy effects.

Participants and Methods: We interrogated eight SNPs in intron 2 of the FGFR2 gene for 2,166 invasive breast cancer cases from the Women's Health Initiative clinical trial and one-to-one matched controls to confirm an association with breast cancer risk. We used case-only analyses to examine the dependence of estrogen plus progestin and estrogen-alone odds ratios on SNP genotype.

Results: Seven FGFR2 SNPs, including six in a single linkage disequilibrium region, were found to associate strongly (P < 10−7) with breast cancer risk. SNP rs3750817 (minor allele T with frequency 0.39) had an estimated per-minor-allele odds ratio of 0.78, and was not in such strong linkage disequilibrium with the other SNPs. The genotype of this SNP related significantly (P < 0.05) to hormone therapy odds ratios. For estrogen plus progestin, the odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) at 0, 1, and 2 minor SNP alleles were 1.52 (1.14-2.02), 1.33 (1.01-1.75), and 0.69 (0.41-1.17), whereas the corresponding values for estrogen alone were 0.74 (0.51-1.09), 0.99 (0.68-1.44), and 0.34 (0.15-0.76).

Conclusions: Postmenopausal women having TT genotype for SNP rs3750817 have a reduced breast cancer risk and seem to experience comparatively favorable effects of postmenopausal hormone therapy. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18(11):3079–85)
Incidence of Carcinoma of the Major Salivary Glands According to the WHO Classification, 1992 to 2006: A Population-Based Study in the United States
Authors: Boukheris Houda , Curtis Rochelle E. , Land Charles E. , Dores Graça M.
Published: November 2009

Background: Carcinomas of the major salivary glands (M-SGC) comprise a morphologically diverse group of rare tumors of largely unknown cause. To gain insight into etiology, we evaluated incidence of M-SGC using the WHO classification schema (WHO-2005).

Methods: We calculated age-adjusted incidence rates (IR) and IR ratios (IRR) for M-SGC diagnosed between 1992 and 2006 in the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program.

Results: Overall, 6,391 M-SGC (IR, 11.95/1,000,000 person-years) were diagnosed during 1992 to 2006. Nearly 85% of cases (n = 5,370; IR, 10.00) were encompassed within WHO-2005, and among these, males had higher IRs than females [IRR, 1.51; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.43-1.60]. Squamous cell (IR, 3.44) and mucoepidermoid (IR, 3.23) carcinomas occurred most frequently among males, whereas mucoepidermoid (IR, 2.67), acinic cell (IR, 1.57), and adenoid cystic (IR, 1.40) carcinomas were most common among females. Mucoepidermoid, acinic cell, and adenoid cystic carcinomas predominated in females through age ∼50 years; thereafter, IRs of acinic cell and adenoid cystic carcinomas were nearly equal among females and males, whereas IRs of mucoepidermoid carcinoma among males exceeded IRs among females (IRR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.38-1.78). Except for mucoepidermoid and adenoid cystic carcinomas, which occurred equally among all races, other subtypes had significantly lower incidence among Blacks and Asians/Pacific Islanders than among Whites. Adenoid cystic carcinoma occurred equally in the submandibular and parotid glands, and other M-SGC histologic subtypes evaluated had 77% to 98% lower IRs in the submandibular gland. Overall M-SGC IRs remained stable during 1992 to 2006.

Conclusion: Distinct incidence patterns according to histologic subtype suggest that M-SGC are a diverse group of neoplasms characterized by etiologic and/or biological heterogeneity with varying susceptibility by gender and race. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18(11):2899–906)
Prognostic Significance of Prostate Cancer Susceptibility Variants on Prostate-Specific Antigen Recurrence after Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Huang Shu-Pin , Huang Li-Chia , Ting Wen-Chien , Chen Lu-Min , Chang Ta-Yuan , Lu Te-Ling , Lan Yu-Hsuan , Liu Chia-Chu , Yang Wen-Hui , Lee Hong-Zin , Hsieh Chi-Jeng , Bao Bo-Ying
Published: November 2009

Recent genomewide association studies have identified several prostate cancer susceptibility variants. However, the association between these variants and biochemical failure in prostate cancer patients receiving radical prostatectomy has not been determined. We systematically evaluated 20 prostate cancer–associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms in a cohort of 320 localized prostate cancer patients receiving radical prostatectomy. Each single-nucleotide polymorphism found to be associated with the recurrence of prostate-specific antigen was further analyzed by Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression model. Three prostate cancer susceptibility single-nucleotide polymorphisms (rs1447295 at 8q24, rs7920517 and rs10993994 at 10q11) were associated with prostate-specific antigen recurrence (P < 0.02). Of these, rs7920517 and rs10993994, which were in strong linkage disequilibrium (r2 = 0.91), also showed significant associations with poor prostate-specific antigen–free survival following radical prostatectomy (log-rank test; P < 0.01). The associations remained significant in our multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis after adjusting for other clinicopathologic risk covariates (P < 0.01). In conclusion, loci associated with risk for prostate cancer, such as rs7920517 and rs10993994, might also be used to predict the recurrence of prostate-specific antigen in prostate cancer patients receiving radical prostatectomy. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18(11):3068–74)
Diindolylmethane Inhibits Cervical Dysplasia, Alters Estrogen Metabolism, and Enhances Immune Response in the K14-HPV16 Transgenic Mouse Model
Authors: Sepkovic Daniel W. , Stein Johann , Carlisle Antoine D. , Ksieski H. Barbara , Auborn Karen , Bradlow H. Leon
Published: November 2009

This study was designed to establish whether 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM) can inhibit cervical lesions, alter estrogen metabolism in favor of C-2 hydroxylation, and enhance immune function in the K14-HPV16 transgenic mouse model. Mice were bred, genotyped, implanted with E2 pellets (0.25 mg/90-day release) under anesthesia, and divided into groups. Wild-type and transgenic mice were given either AIN76A diet alone or with 2,000 ppm DIM for 12 weeks. Blood and reproductive tracts were obtained. Blood was analyzed for estrogen metabolites and IFN-γ. The cervical transformation zone was sectioned and stained for histology. Estradiol C-2 hydroxylation and serum IFN-γ levels were significantly increased over controls in wild-type and transgenic mice receiving DIM. In wild-type mice without DIM, hyperplasia of the squamous epithelium was observed. Wild-type mice fed DIM displayed a normal thin epithelium. In transgenic mice without DIM, epithelial cell projections into the stroma (papillae) were present. An additional degree of nuclear anaplasia in the stratum espinosum was observed. Dysplastic cells were present. Transgenic mice fed DIM displayed some mild hyperplasia of the squamous epithelium. DIM increases estrogen C-2 hydroxylation in this model. Serum INF-γ was increased, indicating increased immune response in the DIM-fed animals. Histopathology showed a marked decrease in cervical dsyplasia in both wild-type and transgenic mice, indicating that DIM delays or inhibits the progression from cervical dysplasia to cervical cancer. Using the K14-HPV16 transgenic mouse model, we have shown that DIM inhibits the development of E6/E7 oncogene–induced cervical lesions. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18(11):2957–64)
The Relation of Serum Parathyroid Hormone and Serum Calcium to Serum Levels of Prostate-Specific Antigen: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Skinner Halcyon G. , Schwartz Gary G.
Published: November 2009

Experimental and clinical data implicate calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the development of prostate cancer. However, epidemiologic data on the role of these variables in prostate health are sparse. We examined the relationship between serum levels of calcium, PTH, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA), an established marker of prostate growth, in a large, population-based study using multivariate linear regression. We studied 1,273 men in National Health and Nutrition Survey 2005 to 2006 who were ≥40 years of age and who were without clinical prostate cancer. Adjusted for age, race, body mass index, and serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, serum levels of PTH were significantly positively correlated with serum PSA (P = 0.01). Serum levels of PTH and calcium each were correlated significantly with free PSA (P = 0.05 and 0.008, respectively). The percentage of men who had elevated serum levels of PTH (PTH, ≥66 pg/mL) was significantly greater among African American men (19.2 versus 9.6%, P = 0.04). Compared with men whose PTH was at the lower end of the reference range, the predicted PSA for men with a PTH of 66 pg/mL was increased 43%. These findings support the hypothesis that serum calcium and serum PTH stimulate prostate growth in men without clinical prostate cancer and have implications for the use of PSA as a screening tool for prostate cancer. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18(11):2869–73)