Timothy Brand - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Timothy Brand

Current Urology Reports, 2006

Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in men and, as a result, there has been a nationwid... more Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in men and, as a result, there has been a nationwide emphasis on screening and detection. With the widespread use of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA), prostate cancer screening effectively detects localized prostate cancer. However, recent reports have identified a significant proportion of prostate cancer in men with low PSA levels. Many of these cancers are higher-grade malignancies. Consequently, PSA may function more effectively as a screening tool when applied over a continuum that is associated with degree of risk, rather than a binary measure. Other markers are currently being investigated. Ideally, a marker will identify the malignancy that is a clinical threat, thereby avoiding intervention for indolent disease. Prevention strategies may be employed for higher-risk patients, and these strategies eventually may be tailored to genetic or other risks.

Urology, 2006

Objectives. To evaluate the recently developed Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial (PCPT) prostate c... more Objectives. To evaluate the recently developed Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial (PCPT) prostate cancer risk calculator in the San Antonio Center of Biomarkers of Risk for Prostate Cancer (SABOR) cohort of the Early Detection Research Network, a younger and more ethnically diverse population than that in the PCPT. Methods. From 3488 SABOR participants, we identified 446 who had undergone prostate biopsy and had undergone prostate-specific antigen measurement and digital rectal examination before biopsy. Most biopsies were performed for abnormal digital rectal examination findings, a prostate-specific antigen level of more than 2.5 ng/mL, or elevated risk because of a first-degree relative with prostate cancer. We evaluated the operating characteristics of the PCPT calculator for detecting prostate cancer in this cohort of SABOR participants. Of the 446 men in this cohort, 24% were younger than 55 years of age. Results. Of the 446 men who had undergone biopsy, 148 (33.2%) had prostate cancer. The observed SABOR prostate cancer rates increased with increasing PCPT risk: 15.7%, 39.0%, 48.8%, and 100.0% for a PCPT risk calculator value of less than 25%, 25% to 50%, 50% to 75%, and greater than 75%, respectively. The PCPT risk calculator had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 65.5% (95% confidence interval 60.2% to 70.8%, P Ͻ0.0001), was greater in African-American men (area under curve of 80.0%, 95% confidence interval 67.8% to 92.2%) than in other races (P ϭ 0.02), and was not different in Hispanic men (P Ͼ0.05). Conclusions. The results of our study have shown that the PCPT risk calculator, available from the Internet and incorporating the current best panel of risk factors, is valid in other, more diverse, populations. UROLOGY 68: [1152][1153][1154][1155] 2006. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Urology, 2007

Family history has been identified as a risk factor for prostate cancer. We assessed the risk of ... more Family history has been identified as a risk factor for prostate cancer. We assessed the risk of prostate cancer in men with a positive family history (at least one first-degree or second-degree relative), normal digital rectal examination (DRE) and a serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level of 4.0 ng/mL.

Current Prostate Reports, 2008

The number of men for whom testosterone is prescribed is rapidly increasing. The aging man normal... more The number of men for whom testosterone is prescribed is rapidly increasing. The aging man normally demonstrates a gradual decline in testosterone. Symptoms of hypogonadism include erectile dysfunction, diminished libido, sarcopenia, increased adiposity, osteopenia and osteoporosis, impaired cognition, and depression. There is a paucity of data regarding both efficacy and safety of testosterone replacement therapy. Testosterone levels have been shown to modulate prostate cancer risk and progression. A prospective evaluation of prostate cancer risk with testosterone replacement therapy has not been conducted. We outline concerns and recommendations for the use of testosterone replacement therapy in the aging man.

Current Urology Reports, 2007

The number of men for whom testosterone is prescribed is rapidly increasing. The aging man normal... more The number of men for whom testosterone is prescribed is rapidly increasing. The aging man normally demonstrates a gradual decline in testosterone. Symptoms of hypogonadism include erectile dysfunction, diminished libido, sarcopenia, increased adiposity, osteopenia and osteoporosis, impaired cognition, and depression. There is a paucity of data regarding both efficacy and safety of testosterone replacement therapy. Testosterone levels have been shown to modulate prostate cancer risk and progression. A prospective evaluation of prostate cancer risk with testosterone replacement therapy has not been conducted. We outline concerns and recommendations for the use of testosterone replacement therapy in the aging man.

Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy, 2006

Prostate cancer is a significant cause of disease and death, making it an attractive target for c... more Prostate cancer is a significant cause of disease and death, making it an attractive target for chemoprevention. The association between lifetime exposure to dihydrotestosterone and risk of developing prostate cancer suggests that chemoprevention is possible with 5alpha-reductase inhibition. The recently completed Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial indicates that chemoprevention is possible with the 5alpha-reductase inhibitor finasteride. Development of a cost-effective chemoprevention strategy for prostate cancer is evolving, and is expected to have significant positive economic and public health benefits.

Hematology-oncology Clinics of North America, 2006

Purpose: Due to the public health impact of prostate cancer including the burden of screening and... more Purpose: Due to the public health impact of prostate cancer including the burden of screening and treatment, there is significant public interest in the potential prevention of this disease. We review the most recent results of large scale randomized clinical trials. Materials and Methods: We review the potential agents, their hypothesized mechanisms of action and challenges for the design of chemoprevention trials, including the 3 large scale trials SELECT (testing selenium and vitamin E), PCPT (testing finasteride) and REDUCE (testing dutasteride). Results: The initial results of SELECT have now been reported and demonstrate no impact of selenium or vitamin E on the risk of prostate cancer. The REDUCE trial results should be available within the year. The results of the PCPT demonstrate a significant (measured relative risk reduction of 24.8%) reduction in the risk of prostate cancer. The initial observation of an excess risk of high grade disease appears to be related to improved detection of cancer and high grade cancer related to the improved sensitivity of prostate specific antigen, digital rectal examination and prostate biopsy for cancer and high grade cancer detection. Modeling studies suggest that with finasteride the risk of high grade cancer is unchanged or reduced. Sexual dysfunction and gynecomastia were observed but the rates were low. Conclusions: Recommendations for the prevention of prostate cancer must be based on outcomes of well designed randomized trials. Men undergoing prostate cancer screening should be informed of the potential for the reduction in risk with finasteride.

Journal of Urology, 2009

PCA ϭ prostate cancer SEMA ϭ semaphorin SNP ϭ single nucleotide polymorphism

Journal of Urology, 2008

Because of the role of TGFB1 in prostate cancer and progression, we hypothesized that polymorphis... more Because of the role of TGFB1 in prostate cancer and progression, we hypothesized that polymorphisms of TGFB1 at C-509T may be associated with prostate cancer risk and/or more aggressive tumors. This is a case-control study. Controls consisted of male volunteers 40 years old or older with a normal digital rectal examination and prostate specific antigen 2.5 ng/ml or less. Cases consisted of men with biopsy proven prostate cancer. High grade prostate cancer included all cancers of Gleason sum 7 or greater. Poor prognosis in cases was defined as any stage with Gleason sum 8-10, pT3A (if Gleason sum was greater than 7), pT3B or higher (all Gleason sums), any N1 or higher, any M1 or higher, or any documented PSA recurrence (biochemical failure). Single nucleotide polymorphisms were genotyped using allelic discrimination assays. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the OR with the corresponding 95% CI for individual racial/ethnic groups. Allelic frequency across ethnic/racial groups was compared using Pearson's chi-square test. A total of 653 cases and 1,476 controls were genotyped at C-509T. The TT genotype showed a significant protective effect against high grade prostate cancer (OR 0.482, 95% CI 0.274-0.849). In addition, the TT genotype was associated with a decreased risk of poor prognosis prostate cancer (OR 0.488, 95% CI 0.236-1.009). Limiting analysis to nonHispanic white men showed that the TT genotype had an even more pronounced protective effect for poor prognosis prostate cancer (OR 0.297, 95% CI 0.100-0.887). Finally, there was a significant difference in the distribution of allelic frequency across racial/ethnic groups (p <0.0001). We observed an association between single nucleotide polymorphisms of TGFB1 at C-509T and a decreased risk of aggressive prostate cancer. The TT genotype of TGFB1 at C-509T demonstrates a protective effect against high grade prostate cancer and cases with poor prognosis.

Progress in Oceanography, 1999

A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, P... more A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, PNtot, Porg, Sibio, Baex) elements of suspended particulate matter (SPM) on a series of transects in three marginal areas of the Mediterranean Sea; the NW Mediterranean, the western Adriatic to the Strait of Otranto and the southern (Cretan) and northern Aegean Sea, with the intention of assessing the influence that river discharges have on their concentrations. In the Adriatic, high Al concentrations (60–200 μgl−1) occur as a consequence of direct discharge from the River Po but importantly from sediment resuspension the amount of which, under steady state conditions, is also related to riverine discharge. In the Otranto Strait high Al concentrations overlie its western shelf and slope. On the NW Mediterranean only waters influenced by the River Rhone, as off Banyuls-sur-mer, show high Al. Particulate Mn is mostly river derived, but principally exists in marginal areas from redox cycling in surficial sediments, a consequence of high biological production induced by nutrient discharges from rivers. High particulate Mnex concentrations were measured in the northern Adriatic, off Banyuls-sur-mer and the northern Aegean, where there are strong river influences. In contrast, the more oligotrophic seawaters off Marseilles, the Balearics and the Cretan Sea show lower concentrations of Mnex, and depth profiles of Mnex especially in the latter area are similar to those found in ocean waters. Of the biogenic elements studied, the assumed presence of terrigenous organic carbon, especially on the Adriatic shelf, largely precludes POC concentrations from being an indicator of marine production. A better guide to productivity induced by river nutrient discharges is seen in the distribution of Porg and Sibio concentrations, which show a gradual southward reduction along the Adriatic shelf and higher concentrations off Banyuls-sur-mer than on other transects in the NW Mediterranean. In the Cretan Sea the close association between Baex and Sibio rather than Porg within cyclonic eddies, where upwelling occurs, implies degradation of organic matter associated with diatom production causes barite to precipitate in the seawater.

Progress in Oceanography, 1999

A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, P... more A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, PNtot, Porg, Sibio, Baex) elements of suspended particulate matter (SPM) on a series of transects in three marginal areas of the Mediterranean Sea; the NW Mediterranean, the western Adriatic to the Strait of Otranto and the southern (Cretan) and northern Aegean Sea, with the intention of assessing the influence that river discharges have on their concentrations. In the Adriatic, high Al concentrations (60–200 μgl−1) occur as a consequence of direct discharge from the River Po but importantly from sediment resuspension the amount of which, under steady state conditions, is also related to riverine discharge. In the Otranto Strait high Al concentrations overlie its western shelf and slope. On the NW Mediterranean only waters influenced by the River Rhone, as off Banyuls-sur-mer, show high Al. Particulate Mn is mostly river derived, but principally exists in marginal areas from redox cycling in surficial sediments, a consequence of high biological production induced by nutrient discharges from rivers. High particulate Mnex concentrations were measured in the northern Adriatic, off Banyuls-sur-mer and the northern Aegean, where there are strong river influences. In contrast, the more oligotrophic seawaters off Marseilles, the Balearics and the Cretan Sea show lower concentrations of Mnex, and depth profiles of Mnex especially in the latter area are similar to those found in ocean waters. Of the biogenic elements studied, the assumed presence of terrigenous organic carbon, especially on the Adriatic shelf, largely precludes POC concentrations from being an indicator of marine production. A better guide to productivity induced by river nutrient discharges is seen in the distribution of Porg and Sibio concentrations, which show a gradual southward reduction along the Adriatic shelf and higher concentrations off Banyuls-sur-mer than on other transects in the NW Mediterranean. In the Cretan Sea the close association between Baex and Sibio rather than Porg within cyclonic eddies, where upwelling occurs, implies degradation of organic matter associated with diatom production causes barite to precipitate in the seawater.

Deep-sea Research Part Ii-topical Studies in Oceanography, 2009

A series of cruises were conducted across the Pakistan continental shelf-edge and upper slope in ... more A series of cruises were conducted across the Pakistan continental shelf-edge and upper slope in the NE Arabian Sea between March and October 2003 coinciding with spring inter-monsoon and late-to-post SW monsoon conditions. Water column hydrographic profiling ...

Deep-sea Research Part Ii-topical Studies in Oceanography, 2009

A series of cruises were conducted across the Pakistan continental shelf-edge and upper slope in ... more A series of cruises were conducted across the Pakistan continental shelf-edge and upper slope in the NE Arabian Sea between March and October 2003 coinciding with spring inter-monsoon and late-to-post SW monsoon conditions. Water column hydrographic profiling ...

Deep-sea Research Part Ii-topical Studies in Oceanography, 2009

Porewater concentrations and benthic fluxes of phosphate, silicate, ammonia, nitrate and nitrite ... more Porewater concentrations and benthic fluxes of phosphate, silicate, ammonia, nitrate and nitrite were measured at five sites spanning the Pakistan margin oxygen minimum zone (OMZ), in order to characterise the biogeochemical processes occurring, and to assess whether oxygen ...

Deep-sea Research Part Ii-topical Studies in Oceanography, 2009

Porewater concentrations and benthic fluxes of phosphate, silicate, ammonia, nitrate and nitrite ... more Porewater concentrations and benthic fluxes of phosphate, silicate, ammonia, nitrate and nitrite were measured at five sites spanning the Pakistan margin oxygen minimum zone (OMZ), in order to characterise the biogeochemical processes occurring, and to assess whether oxygen ...

Progress in Oceanography, 1999

A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, P... more A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, PNtot, Porg, Sibio, Baex) elements of suspended particulate matter (SPM) on a series of transects in three marginal areas of the Mediterranean Sea; the NW Mediterranean, the western Adriatic to the Strait of Otranto and the southern (Cretan) and northern Aegean Sea, with the intention of assessing the influence that river discharges have on their concentrations. In the Adriatic, high Al concentrations (60–200 μgl−1) occur as a consequence of direct discharge from the River Po but importantly from sediment resuspension the amount of which, under steady state conditions, is also related to riverine discharge. In the Otranto Strait high Al concentrations overlie its western shelf and slope. On the NW Mediterranean only waters influenced by the River Rhone, as off Banyuls-sur-mer, show high Al. Particulate Mn is mostly river derived, but principally exists in marginal areas from redox cycling in surficial sediments, a consequence of high biological production induced by nutrient discharges from rivers. High particulate Mnex concentrations were measured in the northern Adriatic, off Banyuls-sur-mer and the northern Aegean, where there are strong river influences. In contrast, the more oligotrophic seawaters off Marseilles, the Balearics and the Cretan Sea show lower concentrations of Mnex, and depth profiles of Mnex especially in the latter area are similar to those found in ocean waters. Of the biogenic elements studied, the assumed presence of terrigenous organic carbon, especially on the Adriatic shelf, largely precludes POC concentrations from being an indicator of marine production. A better guide to productivity induced by river nutrient discharges is seen in the distribution of Porg and Sibio concentrations, which show a gradual southward reduction along the Adriatic shelf and higher concentrations off Banyuls-sur-mer than on other transects in the NW Mediterranean. In the Cretan Sea the close association between Baex and Sibio rather than Porg within cyclonic eddies, where upwelling occurs, implies degradation of organic matter associated with diatom production causes barite to precipitate in the seawater.

Progress in Oceanography, 1999

A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, P... more A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, PNtot, Porg, Sibio, Baex) elements of suspended particulate matter (SPM) on a series of transects in three marginal areas of the Mediterranean Sea; the NW Mediterranean, the western Adriatic to the Strait of Otranto and the southern (Cretan) and northern Aegean Sea, with the intention of assessing the influence that river discharges have on their concentrations. In the Adriatic, high Al concentrations (60–200 μgl−1) occur as a consequence of direct discharge from the River Po but importantly from sediment resuspension the amount of which, under steady state conditions, is also related to riverine discharge. In the Otranto Strait high Al concentrations overlie its western shelf and slope. On the NW Mediterranean only waters influenced by the River Rhone, as off Banyuls-sur-mer, show high Al. Particulate Mn is mostly river derived, but principally exists in marginal areas from redox cycling in surficial sediments, a consequence of high biological production induced by nutrient discharges from rivers. High particulate Mnex concentrations were measured in the northern Adriatic, off Banyuls-sur-mer and the northern Aegean, where there are strong river influences. In contrast, the more oligotrophic seawaters off Marseilles, the Balearics and the Cretan Sea show lower concentrations of Mnex, and depth profiles of Mnex especially in the latter area are similar to those found in ocean waters. Of the biogenic elements studied, the assumed presence of terrigenous organic carbon, especially on the Adriatic shelf, largely precludes POC concentrations from being an indicator of marine production. A better guide to productivity induced by river nutrient discharges is seen in the distribution of Porg and Sibio concentrations, which show a gradual southward reduction along the Adriatic shelf and higher concentrations off Banyuls-sur-mer than on other transects in the NW Mediterranean. In the Cretan Sea the close association between Baex and Sibio rather than Porg within cyclonic eddies, where upwelling occurs, implies degradation of organic matter associated with diatom production causes barite to precipitate in the seawater.

Current Urology Reports, 2006

Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in men and, as a result, there has been a nationwid... more Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in men and, as a result, there has been a nationwide emphasis on screening and detection. With the widespread use of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA), prostate cancer screening effectively detects localized prostate cancer. However, recent reports have identified a significant proportion of prostate cancer in men with low PSA levels. Many of these cancers are higher-grade malignancies. Consequently, PSA may function more effectively as a screening tool when applied over a continuum that is associated with degree of risk, rather than a binary measure. Other markers are currently being investigated. Ideally, a marker will identify the malignancy that is a clinical threat, thereby avoiding intervention for indolent disease. Prevention strategies may be employed for higher-risk patients, and these strategies eventually may be tailored to genetic or other risks.

Urology, 2006

Objectives. To evaluate the recently developed Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial (PCPT) prostate c... more Objectives. To evaluate the recently developed Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial (PCPT) prostate cancer risk calculator in the San Antonio Center of Biomarkers of Risk for Prostate Cancer (SABOR) cohort of the Early Detection Research Network, a younger and more ethnically diverse population than that in the PCPT. Methods. From 3488 SABOR participants, we identified 446 who had undergone prostate biopsy and had undergone prostate-specific antigen measurement and digital rectal examination before biopsy. Most biopsies were performed for abnormal digital rectal examination findings, a prostate-specific antigen level of more than 2.5 ng/mL, or elevated risk because of a first-degree relative with prostate cancer. We evaluated the operating characteristics of the PCPT calculator for detecting prostate cancer in this cohort of SABOR participants. Of the 446 men in this cohort, 24% were younger than 55 years of age. Results. Of the 446 men who had undergone biopsy, 148 (33.2%) had prostate cancer. The observed SABOR prostate cancer rates increased with increasing PCPT risk: 15.7%, 39.0%, 48.8%, and 100.0% for a PCPT risk calculator value of less than 25%, 25% to 50%, 50% to 75%, and greater than 75%, respectively. The PCPT risk calculator had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 65.5% (95% confidence interval 60.2% to 70.8%, P Ͻ0.0001), was greater in African-American men (area under curve of 80.0%, 95% confidence interval 67.8% to 92.2%) than in other races (P ϭ 0.02), and was not different in Hispanic men (P Ͼ0.05). Conclusions. The results of our study have shown that the PCPT risk calculator, available from the Internet and incorporating the current best panel of risk factors, is valid in other, more diverse, populations. UROLOGY 68: [1152][1153][1154][1155] 2006. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Urology, 2007

Family history has been identified as a risk factor for prostate cancer. We assessed the risk of ... more Family history has been identified as a risk factor for prostate cancer. We assessed the risk of prostate cancer in men with a positive family history (at least one first-degree or second-degree relative), normal digital rectal examination (DRE) and a serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level of 4.0 ng/mL.

Current Prostate Reports, 2008

The number of men for whom testosterone is prescribed is rapidly increasing. The aging man normal... more The number of men for whom testosterone is prescribed is rapidly increasing. The aging man normally demonstrates a gradual decline in testosterone. Symptoms of hypogonadism include erectile dysfunction, diminished libido, sarcopenia, increased adiposity, osteopenia and osteoporosis, impaired cognition, and depression. There is a paucity of data regarding both efficacy and safety of testosterone replacement therapy. Testosterone levels have been shown to modulate prostate cancer risk and progression. A prospective evaluation of prostate cancer risk with testosterone replacement therapy has not been conducted. We outline concerns and recommendations for the use of testosterone replacement therapy in the aging man.

Current Urology Reports, 2007

The number of men for whom testosterone is prescribed is rapidly increasing. The aging man normal... more The number of men for whom testosterone is prescribed is rapidly increasing. The aging man normally demonstrates a gradual decline in testosterone. Symptoms of hypogonadism include erectile dysfunction, diminished libido, sarcopenia, increased adiposity, osteopenia and osteoporosis, impaired cognition, and depression. There is a paucity of data regarding both efficacy and safety of testosterone replacement therapy. Testosterone levels have been shown to modulate prostate cancer risk and progression. A prospective evaluation of prostate cancer risk with testosterone replacement therapy has not been conducted. We outline concerns and recommendations for the use of testosterone replacement therapy in the aging man.

Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy, 2006

Prostate cancer is a significant cause of disease and death, making it an attractive target for c... more Prostate cancer is a significant cause of disease and death, making it an attractive target for chemoprevention. The association between lifetime exposure to dihydrotestosterone and risk of developing prostate cancer suggests that chemoprevention is possible with 5alpha-reductase inhibition. The recently completed Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial indicates that chemoprevention is possible with the 5alpha-reductase inhibitor finasteride. Development of a cost-effective chemoprevention strategy for prostate cancer is evolving, and is expected to have significant positive economic and public health benefits.

Hematology-oncology Clinics of North America, 2006

Purpose: Due to the public health impact of prostate cancer including the burden of screening and... more Purpose: Due to the public health impact of prostate cancer including the burden of screening and treatment, there is significant public interest in the potential prevention of this disease. We review the most recent results of large scale randomized clinical trials. Materials and Methods: We review the potential agents, their hypothesized mechanisms of action and challenges for the design of chemoprevention trials, including the 3 large scale trials SELECT (testing selenium and vitamin E), PCPT (testing finasteride) and REDUCE (testing dutasteride). Results: The initial results of SELECT have now been reported and demonstrate no impact of selenium or vitamin E on the risk of prostate cancer. The REDUCE trial results should be available within the year. The results of the PCPT demonstrate a significant (measured relative risk reduction of 24.8%) reduction in the risk of prostate cancer. The initial observation of an excess risk of high grade disease appears to be related to improved detection of cancer and high grade cancer related to the improved sensitivity of prostate specific antigen, digital rectal examination and prostate biopsy for cancer and high grade cancer detection. Modeling studies suggest that with finasteride the risk of high grade cancer is unchanged or reduced. Sexual dysfunction and gynecomastia were observed but the rates were low. Conclusions: Recommendations for the prevention of prostate cancer must be based on outcomes of well designed randomized trials. Men undergoing prostate cancer screening should be informed of the potential for the reduction in risk with finasteride.

Journal of Urology, 2009

PCA ϭ prostate cancer SEMA ϭ semaphorin SNP ϭ single nucleotide polymorphism

Journal of Urology, 2008

Because of the role of TGFB1 in prostate cancer and progression, we hypothesized that polymorphis... more Because of the role of TGFB1 in prostate cancer and progression, we hypothesized that polymorphisms of TGFB1 at C-509T may be associated with prostate cancer risk and/or more aggressive tumors. This is a case-control study. Controls consisted of male volunteers 40 years old or older with a normal digital rectal examination and prostate specific antigen 2.5 ng/ml or less. Cases consisted of men with biopsy proven prostate cancer. High grade prostate cancer included all cancers of Gleason sum 7 or greater. Poor prognosis in cases was defined as any stage with Gleason sum 8-10, pT3A (if Gleason sum was greater than 7), pT3B or higher (all Gleason sums), any N1 or higher, any M1 or higher, or any documented PSA recurrence (biochemical failure). Single nucleotide polymorphisms were genotyped using allelic discrimination assays. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the OR with the corresponding 95% CI for individual racial/ethnic groups. Allelic frequency across ethnic/racial groups was compared using Pearson's chi-square test. A total of 653 cases and 1,476 controls were genotyped at C-509T. The TT genotype showed a significant protective effect against high grade prostate cancer (OR 0.482, 95% CI 0.274-0.849). In addition, the TT genotype was associated with a decreased risk of poor prognosis prostate cancer (OR 0.488, 95% CI 0.236-1.009). Limiting analysis to nonHispanic white men showed that the TT genotype had an even more pronounced protective effect for poor prognosis prostate cancer (OR 0.297, 95% CI 0.100-0.887). Finally, there was a significant difference in the distribution of allelic frequency across racial/ethnic groups (p <0.0001). We observed an association between single nucleotide polymorphisms of TGFB1 at C-509T and a decreased risk of aggressive prostate cancer. The TT genotype of TGFB1 at C-509T demonstrates a protective effect against high grade prostate cancer and cases with poor prognosis.

Progress in Oceanography, 1999

A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, P... more A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, PNtot, Porg, Sibio, Baex) elements of suspended particulate matter (SPM) on a series of transects in three marginal areas of the Mediterranean Sea; the NW Mediterranean, the western Adriatic to the Strait of Otranto and the southern (Cretan) and northern Aegean Sea, with the intention of assessing the influence that river discharges have on their concentrations. In the Adriatic, high Al concentrations (60–200 μgl−1) occur as a consequence of direct discharge from the River Po but importantly from sediment resuspension the amount of which, under steady state conditions, is also related to riverine discharge. In the Otranto Strait high Al concentrations overlie its western shelf and slope. On the NW Mediterranean only waters influenced by the River Rhone, as off Banyuls-sur-mer, show high Al. Particulate Mn is mostly river derived, but principally exists in marginal areas from redox cycling in surficial sediments, a consequence of high biological production induced by nutrient discharges from rivers. High particulate Mnex concentrations were measured in the northern Adriatic, off Banyuls-sur-mer and the northern Aegean, where there are strong river influences. In contrast, the more oligotrophic seawaters off Marseilles, the Balearics and the Cretan Sea show lower concentrations of Mnex, and depth profiles of Mnex especially in the latter area are similar to those found in ocean waters. Of the biogenic elements studied, the assumed presence of terrigenous organic carbon, especially on the Adriatic shelf, largely precludes POC concentrations from being an indicator of marine production. A better guide to productivity induced by river nutrient discharges is seen in the distribution of Porg and Sibio concentrations, which show a gradual southward reduction along the Adriatic shelf and higher concentrations off Banyuls-sur-mer than on other transects in the NW Mediterranean. In the Cretan Sea the close association between Baex and Sibio rather than Porg within cyclonic eddies, where upwelling occurs, implies degradation of organic matter associated with diatom production causes barite to precipitate in the seawater.

Progress in Oceanography, 1999

A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, P... more A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, PNtot, Porg, Sibio, Baex) elements of suspended particulate matter (SPM) on a series of transects in three marginal areas of the Mediterranean Sea; the NW Mediterranean, the western Adriatic to the Strait of Otranto and the southern (Cretan) and northern Aegean Sea, with the intention of assessing the influence that river discharges have on their concentrations. In the Adriatic, high Al concentrations (60–200 μgl−1) occur as a consequence of direct discharge from the River Po but importantly from sediment resuspension the amount of which, under steady state conditions, is also related to riverine discharge. In the Otranto Strait high Al concentrations overlie its western shelf and slope. On the NW Mediterranean only waters influenced by the River Rhone, as off Banyuls-sur-mer, show high Al. Particulate Mn is mostly river derived, but principally exists in marginal areas from redox cycling in surficial sediments, a consequence of high biological production induced by nutrient discharges from rivers. High particulate Mnex concentrations were measured in the northern Adriatic, off Banyuls-sur-mer and the northern Aegean, where there are strong river influences. In contrast, the more oligotrophic seawaters off Marseilles, the Balearics and the Cretan Sea show lower concentrations of Mnex, and depth profiles of Mnex especially in the latter area are similar to those found in ocean waters. Of the biogenic elements studied, the assumed presence of terrigenous organic carbon, especially on the Adriatic shelf, largely precludes POC concentrations from being an indicator of marine production. A better guide to productivity induced by river nutrient discharges is seen in the distribution of Porg and Sibio concentrations, which show a gradual southward reduction along the Adriatic shelf and higher concentrations off Banyuls-sur-mer than on other transects in the NW Mediterranean. In the Cretan Sea the close association between Baex and Sibio rather than Porg within cyclonic eddies, where upwelling occurs, implies degradation of organic matter associated with diatom production causes barite to precipitate in the seawater.

Deep-sea Research Part Ii-topical Studies in Oceanography, 2009

A series of cruises were conducted across the Pakistan continental shelf-edge and upper slope in ... more A series of cruises were conducted across the Pakistan continental shelf-edge and upper slope in the NE Arabian Sea between March and October 2003 coinciding with spring inter-monsoon and late-to-post SW monsoon conditions. Water column hydrographic profiling ...

Deep-sea Research Part Ii-topical Studies in Oceanography, 2009

A series of cruises were conducted across the Pakistan continental shelf-edge and upper slope in ... more A series of cruises were conducted across the Pakistan continental shelf-edge and upper slope in the NE Arabian Sea between March and October 2003 coinciding with spring inter-monsoon and late-to-post SW monsoon conditions. Water column hydrographic profiling ...

Deep-sea Research Part Ii-topical Studies in Oceanography, 2009

Porewater concentrations and benthic fluxes of phosphate, silicate, ammonia, nitrate and nitrite ... more Porewater concentrations and benthic fluxes of phosphate, silicate, ammonia, nitrate and nitrite were measured at five sites spanning the Pakistan margin oxygen minimum zone (OMZ), in order to characterise the biogeochemical processes occurring, and to assess whether oxygen ...

Deep-sea Research Part Ii-topical Studies in Oceanography, 2009

Porewater concentrations and benthic fluxes of phosphate, silicate, ammonia, nitrate and nitrite ... more Porewater concentrations and benthic fluxes of phosphate, silicate, ammonia, nitrate and nitrite were measured at five sites spanning the Pakistan margin oxygen minimum zone (OMZ), in order to characterise the biogeochemical processes occurring, and to assess whether oxygen ...

Progress in Oceanography, 1999

A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, P... more A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, PNtot, Porg, Sibio, Baex) elements of suspended particulate matter (SPM) on a series of transects in three marginal areas of the Mediterranean Sea; the NW Mediterranean, the western Adriatic to the Strait of Otranto and the southern (Cretan) and northern Aegean Sea, with the intention of assessing the influence that river discharges have on their concentrations. In the Adriatic, high Al concentrations (60–200 μgl−1) occur as a consequence of direct discharge from the River Po but importantly from sediment resuspension the amount of which, under steady state conditions, is also related to riverine discharge. In the Otranto Strait high Al concentrations overlie its western shelf and slope. On the NW Mediterranean only waters influenced by the River Rhone, as off Banyuls-sur-mer, show high Al. Particulate Mn is mostly river derived, but principally exists in marginal areas from redox cycling in surficial sediments, a consequence of high biological production induced by nutrient discharges from rivers. High particulate Mnex concentrations were measured in the northern Adriatic, off Banyuls-sur-mer and the northern Aegean, where there are strong river influences. In contrast, the more oligotrophic seawaters off Marseilles, the Balearics and the Cretan Sea show lower concentrations of Mnex, and depth profiles of Mnex especially in the latter area are similar to those found in ocean waters. Of the biogenic elements studied, the assumed presence of terrigenous organic carbon, especially on the Adriatic shelf, largely precludes POC concentrations from being an indicator of marine production. A better guide to productivity induced by river nutrient discharges is seen in the distribution of Porg and Sibio concentrations, which show a gradual southward reduction along the Adriatic shelf and higher concentrations off Banyuls-sur-mer than on other transects in the NW Mediterranean. In the Cretan Sea the close association between Baex and Sibio rather than Porg within cyclonic eddies, where upwelling occurs, implies degradation of organic matter associated with diatom production causes barite to precipitate in the seawater.

Progress in Oceanography, 1999

A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, P... more A study has been made of the distribution of terrigenous (Al and Mnex, Feex) and biogenic (POC, PNtot, Porg, Sibio, Baex) elements of suspended particulate matter (SPM) on a series of transects in three marginal areas of the Mediterranean Sea; the NW Mediterranean, the western Adriatic to the Strait of Otranto and the southern (Cretan) and northern Aegean Sea, with the intention of assessing the influence that river discharges have on their concentrations. In the Adriatic, high Al concentrations (60–200 μgl−1) occur as a consequence of direct discharge from the River Po but importantly from sediment resuspension the amount of which, under steady state conditions, is also related to riverine discharge. In the Otranto Strait high Al concentrations overlie its western shelf and slope. On the NW Mediterranean only waters influenced by the River Rhone, as off Banyuls-sur-mer, show high Al. Particulate Mn is mostly river derived, but principally exists in marginal areas from redox cycling in surficial sediments, a consequence of high biological production induced by nutrient discharges from rivers. High particulate Mnex concentrations were measured in the northern Adriatic, off Banyuls-sur-mer and the northern Aegean, where there are strong river influences. In contrast, the more oligotrophic seawaters off Marseilles, the Balearics and the Cretan Sea show lower concentrations of Mnex, and depth profiles of Mnex especially in the latter area are similar to those found in ocean waters. Of the biogenic elements studied, the assumed presence of terrigenous organic carbon, especially on the Adriatic shelf, largely precludes POC concentrations from being an indicator of marine production. A better guide to productivity induced by river nutrient discharges is seen in the distribution of Porg and Sibio concentrations, which show a gradual southward reduction along the Adriatic shelf and higher concentrations off Banyuls-sur-mer than on other transects in the NW Mediterranean. In the Cretan Sea the close association between Baex and Sibio rather than Porg within cyclonic eddies, where upwelling occurs, implies degradation of organic matter associated with diatom production causes barite to precipitate in the seawater.