A propensity score-matching analysis of transthoracic echocardiography and abdominal ultrasonography for the detection of abdominal aortic aneurysms.

Introduction: We previously reported that the prevalence of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) was higher in patients undergoing scheduled transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) than in patients undergoing abdominal ultrasonography (AUS); however, intergroup patient backgrounds differed significantly in that report.

Purpose: We tested the hypothesis that TTE could detect AAA as effectively as AUS.

Design: A propensity score-matching analysis of a cross-sectional study was adopted as the design for this study.

Bioavailable copper modulates oxidative phosphorylation and growth of tumors.

Copper is an essential trace element, the imbalances of which are associated with various pathological conditions, including cancer, albeit via largely undefined molecular and cellular mechanisms. Here we provide evidence that levels of bioavailable copper modulate tumor growth. Chronic exposure to elevated levels of copper in drinking water, corresponding to the maximum allowed in public water supplies, stimulated proliferation of cancer cells and de novo pancreatic tumor growth in mice.

Two cases of reversible left ventricular hypertrophy during recovery from takotsubo cardiomyopathy.

We report 2 cases of reversible ventricular hypertrophy in patients with takotsubo cardiomyopathy (stress-induced cardiomyopathy) during recovery of cardiac function. The first case involved a 72-year-old woman who presented with cerebral infarction. On admission, an elevated troponin I and decreased apical wall motion were observed with normal myocardial perfusion imaging.

Enhancing tumor-specific uptake of the anticancer drug cisplatin with a copper chelator.

Uptake of the anticancer drug cisplatin is mediated by the copper transporter CTR1 in cultured cells. Here we show in human ovarian tumors that low levels of Ctr1 mRNA are associated with poor clinical response to platinum-based therapy. Using a mouse model of human cervical cancer, we demonstrate that combined treatment with a copper chelator and cisplatin increases cisplatin-DNA adduct levels in cancerous but not in normal tissues, impairs angiogenesis, and improves therapeutic efficacy.

Uptake of the anticancer drug cisplatin mediated by the copper transporter Ctr1 in yeast and mammals.

Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic drug used to treat a variety of cancers. Both intrinsic and acquired resistance to cisplatin, as well as toxicity, limit its effectiveness. Molecular mechanisms that underlie cisplatin resistance are poorly understood.