bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Immune Response against Orientia tsutsugamushi, a Causative Agent of Scrub Typhus, in 4‐Week‐Old and 10‐Week‐Old Scrub Typhus‐Infected Laboratory Mice Using Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay Technique
Authors: LERDTHUSNEE KRIANGKRAI , JENKITKASEMWONG SUPAK , INSUAN SUCHEERA , LEEPITAKRAT WARISA , MONKANNA TAWEESAK , KHLAIMANEE NITTAYA , CHAREONSONGSERMKIJ WEERAYUT , LEEPITAKRAT SURACHAI , CHAYAPHUM KWANTA , JONES JAMES. W.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Using the indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique, we compared the immune response of specific antibodies (IgM and IgG) in serum samples of scrub typhus‐infected and non‐infected mice against Orientia sutsugamushi (a causative agent of scrub typhus). Two different age groups (4‐week‐old and 10‐week‐old) of ICR laboratory mice were infected with O. tsutsugamushi by the animal passage procedure. Serum samples were detected for scrub typhus‐specific antibodies using ELISA technique. Results from determining the presence of IgM and IgG in the serum samples obtained from scrub typhus‐infected mice showed that the IgG was first detected on day‐13 after the initial infection in both the 4‐week‐old and 10‐week‐old mice. The IgG titer levels of both groups were not significantly different. Although the presence of IgM in the in serum samples obtained from scrub typhus‐infected mice was first detected on day 13 in the 4‐week‐old mice and on day‐12 in the 10‐week‐old mice, the IgM titer in the 4‐week‐old mice was slightly lower than in the 10‐week‐old mice. Clinical observations of the scrub typhus‐infected mice showed that the older mice become ill on day 9 whereas the younger mice exhibited the symptoms on day 12. Considering the earlier detection and slightly higher level of specific IgM antibody, it could be interpreted that the older mice may appear to have responded against O. tsutsugamushi faster than the younger mice.
Infective Endocarditis due to Bartonella spp. and Coxiella burnetii
Authors: SICILIANO RINALDO FOCACCIA , STRABELLI TÂNIA MARA , ZEIGLER ROGÉRIO , RODRIGUES CRISTHIENI , CASTELLI JUSSARA BIANCHI , GRINBERG MAX , COLOMBO SILVIA , Da SILVA LUIZ JACINTHO , Do NASCIMENTO ELVIRA MARIA MENDES , Dos SANTOS FABIANA CRISTINA PEREIRA , UIP DAVID EVERSON
Published: November 2006

Abstract: 
Bartonella spp. and Coxiella burnetii are recognized as causative agents of blood culture–negative endocarditis (BCNE) in humans and there are no studies of their occurrences in Brazil. The purpose of this study is to investigate Bartonella spp. and C. burnetii as a causative agent of culture‐negative endocarditis patients at a cardiology hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. From January 2004 to December 2004 patients with a diagnosis of endocarditis at our Institute were identified and recorded prospectively. They were considered to have possible or definite endocarditis according to the modified Duke criteria. Those with blood culture–negative were tested serologically using the indirect immunofluorescent assay (IFA) for Bartonella henselae, B. quintana, and C. burnetii. IFA‐IgG titers >800 for Bartonella spp. and C. burnetii were considered positive. A total of 61 patients with endocarditis diagnosis were evaluated, 17 (27%) were culture‐negative. Two have had IgG titer greater than 800 (≥3,200) against Bartonella spp. and one against C. burnetii (phase I and II≥6,400). Those with Bartonella‐induced endocarditis had a fatal disease. Necropsy showed calcifications and extensive destruction of the valve tissue, which is diffusely infiltrated with mononuclear inflammatory cells predominantly by foamy macrophages. The patient with C. burnetii endocarditis received specific antibiotic therapy. Reports of infective endocartitis due to Bartonella spp. and C. burnetii in Brazil reveal the importance of investigating the infectious agents in culture‐negative endocarditis.
Serologic Study of Rickettsioses among Acute Febrile Patients in Central Tunisia
Authors: KAABIA N. , ROLAIN J.M. , KHALIFA M. , JAZIA E. BEN , BAHRI F. , RAOULT D. , LETAÏEF A.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Although Mediterranean spotted or “boutonneuse” fever (MSF) has been documented in central Tunisia, other spotted fever group rickettsioses (SFGR) and typhus group rickettsioses (TGR) have received little attention in our region. We sought to determine the role of rickettsioses, Q fever, ehrlichioses, and bartonelloses among patients with acute fever. The results of this study of 47 persons with acute fever of undetermined origin are reported in this paper. We concluded that SFGR, murine typhus, and acute Q fever are common causes of acute isolate fever in summer in central Tunisia and should be investigated systematically in patients with acute fever of unknown origin.
Rickettsia spp. in Ixodes ricinus Ticks in Bavaria, Germany
Authors: WÖLFEL R. , TERZIOGLU R. , KIESSLING J. , WILHELM S. , ESSBAUER S. , PFEFFER M. , DOBLER G.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  This study aims to provide information on the occurrence of spotted fever rickettsiae in Ixodes ricinus ticks in southern Germany. A total of 2,141 I. ricinus ticks was collected in Bavaria. Pools of 5‐10 ticks were studied by a PCR targeting the rickettsial citrate synthase gene gltA. The average prevalence rate was 12% (257 of 2,141). Sequencing data exclusively identified Rickettsia helvetica DNA. Results and other data demonstrate the possible role of R. helvetica in I. ricinus as a source of human infections in southern Germany.
Phase II Study of Temozolomide in Relapsed or Refractory High-Risk Neuroblastoma: A Joint Société Française des Cancers de l’Enfant and United Kingdom Children Cancer Study Group–New Agents Group Study
Authors: Rubie Hervé , Chisholm Julia , Defachelles Anne Sophie , Morland Bruce , Munzer Caroline , Valteau-Couanet Dominique , Mosseri Véronique , Bergeron Christophe , Weston Clare , Coze Carole , Auvrignon Anne , Djafari Latifa , Hobson Rachel , Baunin Christiane , Dickinson Fiona , Brisse Hervé , McHugh Kieran , Biassoni Lorenzo , Giammarile Francesco , Vassal Gilles
Published: November 2006

Purpose

To determine the response rate (RR) of neuroblastoma (NB) in children to temozolomide (TMZ), and evaluate the duration of response and tolerance of the drug in this patient population.

Patients and Methods

A multicenter, phase II evaluation of an oral, daily schedule of TMZ (200 mg/m2/d × 5 days every 28 days) was undertaken in children with refractory or relapsed high-risk NB (metastatic or localized with Myc-N amplification). Response assessment was based on imaging with two-dimentional measurement of disease and meta-iodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) score. Activity was defined by a reduction in lesion size or isotope uptake at anytime. Methodology included a two-step design using Fleming’s method with a first step of 15 patients and a second of 10 additional patients if two to four responses had been observed in the first cohort. All data was centrally reviewed by a panel.

Results

Twenty-five assessable patients were recruited over a 14-month period in 14 centers and received 94 cycles of chemotherapy. Twenty-three patients had metastatic NB either refractory (n = 9) or in relapse (n = 14). Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia was the most frequent toxicity (16% of cycles). Myelosuppression resulted in treatment delays and dose reductions (24% and 21% of cycles, respectively). Response (complete response, very good partial response, or partial response) was observed in five patients (RR = 20% ± 8%) with a median duration of 6 months and an objective or mixed response in five additional patients.

Conclusion

Temozolomide shows activity in heavily pretreated patients with NB, and deserves further evaluation in combination with another drug.
Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials of Prophylactic Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor and Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor After Autologous and Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Dekker Allison , Bulley Sean , Beyene Joseph , Dupuis L. Lee , Doyle John J. , Sung Lillian
Published: November 2006

Purpose

The primary objective of our meta-analysis was to determine whether prophylactic hematopoietic colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) after hematopoietic autologous and allogeneic stem-cell transplantation (SCT) reduced documented infections. Our secondary objectives were to determine whether prophylactic CSFs affected other outcomes including parenteral antibiotic therapy duration, infection-related mortality, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), or treatment-related mortality.

Methods

We included studies if there was random assignment between CSFs and placebo/no therapy and CSFs were given after SCT and before recovery of neutrophils. From 3,778 reviewed study articles, 34 were included based on predefined inclusion criteria. All analyses were conducted using a random effects model.

Results

CSFs reduced the risk of documented infections (relative risk [RR] 0.87; 95% CI, 0.76 to 1.00; P = .05) and duration of parenteral antibiotics (weighted mean difference, −1.39 days, 95% CI, −2.56 to −0.22; P = .02) but did not reduce infection-related mortality (RR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.41 to 1.44; P = .4). CSFs did not increase grade 2 to 4 acute GVHD (RR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.81 to 1.31; P = .8) or treatment-related mortality (RR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.78 to 1.29; P = .98).

Conclusion

CSFs were associated with a small reduction in the risk of documented infections but did not affect infection or treatment-related mortality.
Communication About Prognosis Between Parents and Physicians of Children With Cancer: Parent Preferences and the Impact of Prognostic Information
Authors: Mack Jennifer W. , Wolfe Joanne , Grier Holcombe E. , Cleary Paul D. , Weeks Jane C.
Published: November 2006

Purpose

Concerns about the harms of prognostic information, including distress and loss of hope, cause some physicians to avoid frank disclosure. We aimed to determine parent preferences for prognostic information about their children with cancer and the results of receiving such information.

Patients and Methods

We surveyed 194 parents of children with cancer (overall response rate, 70%), treated at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Children's Hospital (Boston, MA) and the children's physicians. Our main outcome measure was parent rating of prognostic information as extremely or very upsetting.

Results

The majority of parents desired as much information about prognosis as possible (87%) and wanted it expressed numerically (85%). Although 36% of parents found information about prognosis to be extremely or very upsetting, those parents were more likely to want additional information about prognosis than those who were less upset (P = .01). Parents who found information upsetting were no less likely to say that knowing prognosis was important (P = .39), that knowing prognosis helped in decision making (P = .40), or that hope for a cure kept them going (P = .72).

Conclusion

Although many parents find prognostic information about their children with cancer upsetting, parents who are upset by prognostic information are no less likely to want it. The upsetting nature of prognostic information does not diminish parents' desire for such information, its importance to decision making, or parents' sense of hope.
Irinotecan Plus Temozolomide for Relapsed or Refractory Neuroblastoma
Authors: Kushner Brian H. , Kramer Kim , Modak Shakeel , Cheung Nai-Kong V.
Published: November 2006

Purpose

To report on an irinotecan and temozolomide regimen for neuroblastoma (NB). Quality of life and minimizing toxicity were major considerations.

Patients and Methods

The plan stipulated 5-day courses of irinotecan 50 mg/m2 (1-hour infusion) and temozolomide 150 mg/m2 (oral) every 3 to 4 weeks, with a pretreatment platelet count more than 30,000/μL. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor was used when the absolute neutrophil count was less than 1,000/μL.

Results

Forty-nine NB patients received 1 to 15 courses (median, 5). Gastrointestinal and myelosuppressive toxicities were readily managed. Lymphocyte responses to phytohemagglutinin after 2 to 10 courses (median, 3.5) were normal in 10 of 10 patients treated after nonimmunosuppressive therapy, and normalized in five of seven patients first treated less than 2 months after high-dose alkylators. Of 19 patients treated for refractory NB and assessable for response, nine showed evidence of disease regression, including two complete responses and seven objective responses. Of 17 patients treated for progressive disease, three showed evidence of disease regression, including one partial response and two objective responses. Multiple courses entailed no cumulative toxicity and controlled disease for prolonged periods in many patients, including some who were unable to complete prior treatments because of hematologic, infectious, cardiac, or renal problems.

Conclusion

This regimen has anti-NB activity, spares vital organs, is feasible with poor bone marrow reserve, causes limited immunosuppression, and allows good quality of life.
C-Reactive Protein Levels, Variation in the C-Reactive Protein Gene, and Cancer Risk: The Rotterdam Study
Authors: Siemes Claire , Visser Loes E. , Coebergh Jan-Willem W. , Splinter Ted A.W. , Witteman Jacqueline C.M. , Uitterlinden André G. , Hofman Albert , Pols Huibert A.P. , Stricker Bruno H.Ch.
Published: November 2006

Purpose

It remains unclear if inflammation itself may induce cancer, if inflammation is a result of tumor growth, or a combination of both exists. The aim of this study was to examine whether C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and CRP gene variations were associated with an altered risk of colorectal, lung, breast, or prostate cancer.

Patients and Methods

A total of 7,017 participants age ≥ 55 years from the Rotterdam Study were eligible for analyses. Mean follow-up time was 10.2 years. High-sensitivity CRP measurements were performed to identify additional values of 0.2 to 1.0 mg/L compared with standard procedures. Genotypes of the CRP gene were determined with an allelic discrimination assay.

Results

High levels (> 3 mg/L) of CRP were associated with an increased risk of incident cancer (hazard ratio, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.1 to 1.7) compared with persons with low levels (< 1 mg/L), even after a potential latent period of 5 years was introduced. Although CRP seems to affect several cancer sites, the association was strongest for lung cancer (hazard ratio, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.6 to 4.9). A CRP single nucleotide polymorphism associated with decreased CRP levels was associated with an increased lung cancer risk of 2.6 (95% CI, 1.6 to 4.4) in homozygous carriers.

Conclusion

Baseline CRP levels seem to be a biomarker of chronic inflammation preceding lung cancer, even after subtracting a 5-year latent period. Furthermore, CRP gene variation associated with low CRP blood levels was relatively common in patients with lung cancer. Both chronic inflammation and impaired defense mechanisms resulting in chronic inflammation might explain these results.
Phase II Study of Etoposide and Cisplatin With Concurrent Twice-Daily Thoracic Radiotherapy Followed by Irinotecan and Cisplatin in Patients With Limited-Disease Small-Cell Lung Cancer: West Japan Thoracic Oncology Group 9902
Authors: Saito Hiroshi , Takada Yoshiki , Ichinose Yukito , Eguchi Kenji , Kudoh Shinzoh , Matsui Kaoru , Nakagawa Kazuhiko , Takada Minoru , Negoro Shunichi , Tamura Kenji , Ando Masahiko , Tada Takuhito , Fukuoka Masahiro
Published: November 2006

Purpose

We initially conducted a randomized phase II study to compare irinotecan and cisplatin (IP) versus irinotecan, cisplatin, and etoposide (IPE) after etoposide and cisplatin (EP) with concurrent twice-daily thoracic radiotherapy (TRT) in limited-disease small-cell lung cancer (LD-SCLC). We amended the protocol to evaluate IP after EP with concurrent twice-daily TRT in a single-arm phase II study because of an unacceptable toxicity in IPE.

Patients and Methods

Previously untreated patients with LD-SCLC were treated intravenously with etoposide 100 mg/m2 on days 1 through 3 and cisplatin 80 mg/m2 on day 1 with concurrent twice-daily TRT (1.5 Gy per fraction, a total dose of 45 Gy) beginning on day 2 followed by three cycles of irinotecan 60 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, and 15 and cisplatin 60 mg/m2 on day 1 of a 4-week cycle.

Results

Of the 51 patients enrolled, 49 patients were assessable for response and toxicity. The overall response rate and complete response rate were 88% and 41%, respectively. The median survival time for all patients was 23 months. The 2-year and 3-year survival rates were 49% and 29.7%, respectively. The median progression-free survival was 11.8 months. The major toxicities observed were neutropenia (grade 4, 84%), febrile neutropenia (grade 3, 31%), infection (grade 3 to 4, 33%), electrolytes imbalance (grade 3 to 4, 20%), and diarrhea (grade 3 to 4, 14%).

Conclusion

EP with concurrent twice-daily TRT followed by the consolidation of IP appears to be an active regimen which deserves further phase III testing in patients with LD-SCLC.
Patient and Treatment Factors Associated With Complications After Prostate Brachytherapy
Authors: Chen Aileen B. , D’Amico Anthony V. , Neville Bridget A. , Earle Craig C.
Published: November 2006

Purpose

To assess the prevalence and predictors of complications after prostate brachytherapy in a population-based sample of older men.

Patients and Methods

We analyzed claims for Medicare-enrolled men older than age 65 years living in Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) surveillance areas diagnosed with prostate cancer from 1991 to 1999 who underwent brachytherapy as initial treatment.

Results

There were 5,621 men who had brachytherapy with at least 2 years of follow-up. A complication diagnosis or invasive procedure occurred in 54.5% of men within 2 years, with 14.1% undergoing an invasive procedure. Urinary, bowel, and erectile morbidity rates were 33.8%, 21.0%, and 16.7%, respectively, and invasive procedure rates were 10.3%, 0.8%, and 4.0%, respectively. On multivariable analysis, combined urinary diagnoses and invasive procedures (obstruction, incontinence, bleeding, fistula) were associated with older age (P < .01), nonwhite race (odds ratio [OR], 1.30; P = .01), low income (OR, 1.74; P < .01), external-beam radiotherapy (EBRT; OR, 0.85; P = .01), androgen deprivation (OR, 1.31; P < .01), later year of brachytherapy (OR, 1.03/yr; P = .02), higher Charlson comorbidity score (P < .01), and prior transurethral resection of the prostate (OR, 1.65; P < .01). Bowel morbidity (bleeding/proctitis, injury) was associated with older age (P = .04), EBRT (OR, 1.46; P < .01), later year (OR, 1.04/yr; P < .01), higher Charlson score (P = .01), and inflammatory bowel disease (OR, 2.60; P < .01). Erectile morbidity was associated with younger age (P < .01), nonwhite race (OR, 1.37; P < .01), AD (OR, 1.18; P = .04), and later year (OR, 1.08/yr; P < .01). Invasive procedure rates declined with later year of brachytherapy (OR, 0.93/yr; P < .01).

Conclusion

Morbidity after prostate brachytherapy was common, though invasive procedures were required infrequently. Invasive procedures for complications declined during the 1990s, suggesting technical improvement with experience.
Phase II Trial of Cetuximab in Patients With Previously Treated Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Hanna Nasser , Lilenbaum Rogerio , Ansari Rafat , Lynch Thomas , Govindan Ramaswamy , Jänne Pasi A. , Bonomi Philip
Published: November 2006

Purpose

To determine the efficacy of cetuximab in patients with recurrent or progressive non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after receiving at least one prior chemotherapy regimen.

Patients and Methods

This was an open-label, phase II study of patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) –positive and EGFR-negative advanced NSCLC with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0 to 1. Patients received cetuximab 400 mg/m2intravenously (IV) during 120 minutes on week 1 followed by weekly doses of cetuximab 250 mg/m2IV during 60 minutes. A cycle was considered as 4 weeks of treatment and therapy was continued until disease progression or intolerable toxicities. The primary end point was to assess response rate. Secondary end points included an estimation of time to progression and survival.

Results

Patient and disease characteristics (n = 66) included EGFR-positive status (n = 60); EGFR-negative status (n = 6); number of prior regimens (one, n = 28; two, n = 27; ≥ three, n = 11); male (n = 41); female (n = 25); adenocarcinoma (n = 36); and smoking status (never, n = 13; former, n = 45; current, n = 8). Grade 3/4 toxicities included acne-like rash (6.1%), anaphylactic reactions (1.5%), and diarrhea (1.5%). The response rate for all patients (n = 66) was 4.5% (95% CI, 0.9% to 12.7%) and the stable disease rate was 30.3% (95% CI, 19.6% to 42.9%). The response rate for patients with EGFR-positive tumors (n = 60) was 5% (95% CI, 1.0% to 13.9%). The median time to progression for all patients was 2.3 months (95% CI, 2.1 to 2.6 months) and median survival time was 8.9 months (95% CI, 6.2 to 12.6 months).

Conclusion

Although the response rate with single-agent cetuximab in this heavily pretreated patient population with advanced NSCLC was only 4.5%, the disease control rates and overall survival seem comparable to that of pemetrexed, docetaxel, and erlotinib in similar groups of patients.
Status and Trends of Fecal Indicator Bacteria in Two Urban Watersheds
Authors: Petersen Tina M. , Suarez Monica P. , Rifai Hanadi S. , Jensen Paul , Su Yu‐Chun , Stein Ron
Published: November 2006

This paper examines bacterial levels and their causes in two Houston bayous (Texas). Buffalo and Whiteoak bayous are two of the most contaminated water bodies in Texas for indicator bacteria, based on the frequency and magnitude of contact recreation water quality exceedances. Examination of historical data indicates frequent exceedances, although some improvement has been made since the 1970s.    Statistical analyses showed some correlation between in‐stream fecal coliform concentrations and rainfall and with land use. Differences in fecal coliform concentrations were found between high‐ and low‐flow conditions in Whiteoak Bayou, while reservoir releases confounded this relationship in Buffalo Bayou. Wastewater treatment plant effluent was found to make up two‐thirds to three‐fourths of the median flow in both bayous. Effluent sampling was conducted at 72 of the approximately 140 wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in the watersheds, providing evidence that WWTP effluent could act to maintain low‐flow concentrations of fecal coliform in the bayous.
sets and singletons
Authors: Hauser Kai , Woodin W. Hugh
Published: November 2006

We extend work of H. Friedman, L. Harrington and P. Welch to the third level of the projective hierarchy. Our main theorems say that (under appropriate background assumptions) the possibility to select definable elements of non-empty sets of reals at the third level of the projective hierarchy is equivalent to the disjunction of determinacy of games at the second level of the projective hierarchy and the existence of a core model (corresponding to this fragment of determinacy) which must then contain all real numbers. The proofs use Sacks forcing with perfect trees and core model techniques.
Generic expansions of ω-categorical structures and semantics of generalized quantifiers
Authors: Ivanov A. A.
Published: November 2006

LetMbe a countably infinite ω-categorical structure. Consider Aut(M) as a complete metric space by definingd(g, h) = Ω{2−n:g(xn) ≠h(xn) org−1(xn) ≠h−1(xn)} where {xn:n∈ ω} is an enumeration ofMAn automorphism α ∈ Aut(M) is generic if its conjugacy class is comeagre. J. Truss has shown in [11] that if the set P of all finite partial isomorphisms contains a co-final subset P1closed under conjugacy and having the amalgamation property and the joint embedding property then there is a generic automorphism. In the present paper we give a weaker condition of this kind which is equivalent to the existence of generic automorphisms. Really we give more: a characterization of the existence of generic expansions (defined in an appropriate way) of an ω-categorical structure. We also show that Truss' condition guarantees the existence of a countable structure consisting of automorphisms ofMwhich can be considered as an atomic model of some theory naturally associated toM. We do it in a general context of weak models for second-order quantifiers.

The author thanks Ludomir Newelski for pointing out a mistake in the first version of Theorem 1.2 and for interesting discussions. Also, the author is grateful to the referee for very helpful remarks.
On inverse γ-systems and the number ofL∞λ-equivalent, non-isomorphic models for λ singular
Authors: Shelah Saharon , Väisänen Pauli
Published: November 2006

Suppose λ is a singular cardinal of uncountable cofinality κ. For a modelof cardinality λ, let No() denote the number of isomorphism types of modelsof cardinality λ which areL∞λ-equivalent to. In [7] Shelah considered inverse κ-systemsof abelian groups and their certain kind of quotient limits Gr()/ Fact(). In particular Shelah proved in [7, Fact 3.10] that for every cardinal Μ there exists an inverse κ-systemsuch thatconsists of abelian groups having cardinality at most Μκand card(Gr()/ Fact()) = Μ. Later in [8, Theorem 3.3] Shelah showed a strict connection between inverse κ-systems and possible values of No (under the assumption that θκ< λ for every θ < λ): ifis an inverse κ-system of abelian groups having cardinality < λ, then there is a modelsuch that card() = λ and No() = card(Gr()/ Fact()). The following was an immediate consequence (when θκ< λ for every θ < λ): for every nonzero Μ < λ or Μ = λκthere is a model, of cardinality λ with No() = Μ. In this paper we show: for every nonzero Μ ≤ λκthere is an inverse κ-systemof abelian groups having cardinality < λ such that card(Gr()/ Fact()) = Μ (under the assumptions 2κ< λ and θ<κ< λ for all θ < λ when Μ > λ), with the obvious new consequence concerning the possible value of No. Specifically, the case No() = λ is possible when θκ> λ for every λ < λ.
Structural properties and Σ20 enumeration degrees
Authors: Nies André , Sorbi Andrea
Published: November 2006

We prove that each Σ20 set which is hypersimple relative to ∅′ is noncuppable in the structure of the Σ20 enumeration degrees. This gives a connection between properties of Σ20 sets under inclusion and and the Σ20 enumeration degrees. We also prove that some low non-computably enumerable enumeration degree contains no set which is simple relative to ∅′.
Logical questions concerning the μ-calculus: Interpolation, Lyndon and Łoś-Tarski
Authors: D'agostino Giovanna , Hollenberg Marco
Published: November 2006

The (modal) μ-calculus ([14]) is a very powerful extension of modal logic with least and greatest fixed point operators. It is of great interest to computer science for expressing properties of processes such as termination (every run is finite) and fairness (on every infinite run, no action is repeated infinitely often to the exclusion of all others).

The power of the μ-calculus is also evident from a more theoretical perspective. The μ-calculus is a fragment of monadic second-order logic (MSO) containing only formulae that are invariant for bisimulation, in the sense that they cannot distinguish between bisimilar states. Janin and Walukiewicz prove the converse: any property which is invariant for bisimulation and MSO-expressible is already expressible in the μ-calculus ([13]). Yet the μ-calculus enjoys many desirable properties which MSO lacks, like a complete sequent-calculus ([29]), an exponential-time decision procedure, and the finite model property ([25]). Switching from MSO to its bisimulation-invariant fragment gives us these desirable properties.

In this paper we take a classical logician's view of the μ-calculus. As far as we are concerned a new logic should not be allowed into the community of logics without at least considering the standard questions that any logic is bothered with. In this paper we perform this rite of passage for the μ-calculus. The questions we will be concerned with are the following.
Constructingω-stable structures: rank 2 fields
Authors: Baldwin John T. , Holland Kitty
Published: November 2006

We provide a general framework for studying the expansion of strongly minimal sets by adding additional relations in the style of Hrushovski. We introduce a notion ofseparation of quantifierswhich is a condition on the class of expansions of finitely generated models for the expanded theory to have a countable ω-saturated model. We apply these results to construct for each sufficiently fast growing finite-to-one functionμfrom ‘primitive extensions’ to the natural numbers a theoryTμof an expansion of an algebraically closed field which has Morley rank 2. Finally, we show that ifμis not finite-to-one the theory may not beω-stable.
The Hahn representation theorem for ℓ-groups in ZFA
Authors: Gluschankof D.
Published: November 2006

In [7] the author discussed the relative force —in the set theory ZF— of some representation theorems for ℓ-groups (lattice-ordered groups). One of the theorems not discussed in that paper is the Hahn representation theorem for abelian ℓ-groups. This result, originally proved by Hahn (see [8]) for totally ordered groups and half a century later by Conrad, Harvey and Holland for the general case (see [4]), states that any abelian ℓ-group can be embedded in a Hahn product of copies of R (the real line with its natural totally-ordered group structure). Both proofs rely heavily on Zorn's Lemma which is equivalent to AC (the axiom of choice).

The aim of this work is to point out the use of non-constructible axioms (i.e., AC and weaker forms of it) in the proofs. Working in the frame of ZFA, that is, the Zermelo-Fraenkel set theory where a non-empty set of atoms is allowed, we present alternative proofs which, in the totally ordered case, do not require the use of AC. For basic concepts and notation on ℓ-groups the reader can refer to [1] and [2]. For set theory, to [11].
Supersimple ω-categorical groups and theories
Authors: Evans David M. , Wagner Frank O.
Published: November 2006

An ω-categorical supersimple group is finite-by-abelian-by-finite, and has finite SU-rank. Every definable subgroup is commensurable with an acl(ø)-definable subgroup. Every finitely based regular type in a CM-trivial ω-categorical simple theory is non-orthogonal to a type of SU-rank 1. In particular, a supersimple ω-categorical CM-trivial theory has finite SU-rank.
Preserving σ-ideals
Authors: Jindřich Zapletal
Published: November 2006

It is proved consistent that there be a proper σ-ideal on ω1 and an ℵ1-preserving poset ℙ such that ℙ ⊩ the σ-ideal generated by is not proper.
The interpretation of unsolvable λ-terms in models of untyped λ-calculus
Authors: Kerth Rainer
Published: November 2006

Our goal in this paper is to analyze the interpretation of arbitrary unsolvable λ-terms in a given model of λ-calculus. We focus on graph models and (a special type of) stable models. We introduce the syntactical notion of a decoration and the semantical notion of a critical sequence. We conjecture that
any unsolvable term β-reduces to a term admitting a decoration. The main result of this paper concerns the interconnection between those two notions: given a graph model or stable model , we show that any unsolvable term admitting a decoration and having a non-empty interpretation in generates a critical sequence in the model.

In the last section, we examine three classical graph models, namely the model of Plotkin and Scott, Engeler's model and Park's model . We show that and do not contain critical sequences whereas does.
Σ2 Induction and infinite injury priority argument, Part I: Maximal sets and the jump operator
Authors: Chong C. T. , Yang Yue
Published: November 2006

The study of recursion theory on models of fragments of Peano arithmetic has hitherto been concentrated on recursively enumerable (r.e.) sets and their degrees (with a few exceptions, such as that in [2] on minimal degrees). The reason for such a concerted effort is clear: priority arguments have occupied a central position in post Friedberg-Muchnik recursion theory, and after almost forty years of intensive development in the subject, they are still the essential tools on which investigations of r.e. sets and their degrees depend. There are two possible approaches to the study within fragments of arithmetic: To give a general analysis of strategies, and identify their proof-theoretic strengths (for example in [6] on infinite injury priority methods), or to consider specific theorems in recursion theory, and, if possible, pinpoint the exact levels of induction provably equivalent to the theorems. The work reported in this paper belongs to the second approach. More precisely, we single out two infinitary injury type constructions of r.e. sets—one concerning maximal sets and the other based on the notion of the jump operator—to be the topics of study.
Ideals over ω and cardinal invariants of the continuum
Authors: Matet P. , Pawlikowski J.
Published: November 2006

Let P be any one of the following combinatorial properties: weak P-pointness, weak (semi-) Q-pointness, weak (semi-)selectivity, ω-closedness. We deal with the following two questions: (1) What is the least cardinal k such that there exists an ideal with k many generators that does not have the property P? (2) Can one extend every ideal with the property P to a prime ideal with the property P?
An variation for one souslin tree
Authors: Larson Paul
Published: November 2006

We present a variation of the forcing as presented in Woodin [4], Our forcing is a ℙmax-style construction where each model condition selects one Souslin tree. In the extension there is a Souslin tree TG which is the direct limit of the selected Souslin trees in the models of the generic. In some sense, the generic extension is a maximal model of "there exists a minimal Souslin tree,” with TG being this minimal tree. In particular, in the extension this Souslin tree has the property that forcing with it gives a model of Souslin's Hypothesis.
The independence of
Authors: Leshem Amir , Magidor Menachem
Published: November 2006

In this paper we prove the independence of for n ≥ 3. We show that can be forced to be above any ordinal of L using set forcing. For we prove that it can be forced, using set forcing, to be above any L cardinal κ such that κ is Π1 definable without parameters in L. We then show that cannot be forced by a set forcing to be above every cardinal of L Finally we present a class forcing construction to make greater than any given L cardinal.
Friedberg splittings in Σ30 quotient lattices of
Authors: Hammond Todd
Published: November 2006

Let {We}e∈ω be a standard enumeration of the recursively enumerable (r.e.) subsets of ω = {0,1,2,…}. The lattice of recursively enumerable sets, , is the structure ({We}e∈ω,∪,∩). ≡ is a congruence relation on if ≡ is an equivalence relation on and if for all U, U′ ∈ and V, V′ ∈ , if U ≡ U′ and V ≡ V′, then U ∪ V ≡ U′ ∪ V′ and U ∩ V ≡ U′ ∩ V′. [U] = {V ∈ | V ≡ U} is the equivalence class of U. If ≡ is a congruence relation on , the elements of the quotient lattice / ≡ are the equivalence classes of ≡. [U] ∪ [V] is defined as [U ∪ V], and [U] ∩ [V] is defined as [U ∩ V]. We say that a congruence relation ≡ on is if {(i, j)| Wi ≡ Wj} is . Define =* by putting Wi, =* Wj if and only if (Wi − Wj)∪ (Wj − Wi) is finite. Then =* is a congruence relation. If D is any set, then we can define a congruence relation by putting Wi Wj if and only if Wi ∩ D =* Wj ∩D. By Hammond [2], a congruence relation ≡ ⊇ =* is if and only if ≡ is equal to for some set D.

The Friedberg splitting theorem [1] asserts that if A is any recursively enumerable set, then there exist disjoint recursively enumerable sets A0 and A1 such that A = A0∪ A1 and such that for any recursively enumerable set B
A set with barely degree
Authors: Downey Rod , Laforte Geoffrey , Lempp Steffen
Published: November 2006

We construct a degree which fails to be computably enumerable in any computably enumerable set strictly below .
Music Education in This Age
Authors: John Robert W.
Published: November 2006

IS THE PLACE OF THE ARTS in the school curriculum threatened? The author thinks so and presents this challenge: Can music stand on its own merit? Is it enough to say that we know music contributes to a richer and fuller life? In attempting to formulate answers to these questions, it will be necessary to search for deeper reasons than those that apparently satisfy many practitioners in the field at the present time.

What would you do if called upon to justify the retention of music in the curriculum if in your community school administrators, supported by the school board and press, believed it must be eliminated in favor of more emphasis on the sciences? If you have any thoughts or suggestions you would like to contribute to a symposium, send them to the Music Educators Journal. Recommended readinq: Mr. Hilton's “Is Music Expendable?” in the Round Table, this issue, page 58.
Expert Recommendations on Use of Topical Therapeutics for Vitiligo in Pediatric, Adolescent, and Young Adult Patients
Authors: Renert-Yuval Yael , Ezzedine Khaled , Grimes Pearl , Rosmarin David , Eichenfield Lawrence F. , Castelo-Soccio Leslie , Huang Victor , Desai Seemal R. , Walsh Samantha , Silverberg Jonathan I. , Paller Amy S. , Rodrigues Michele , Weingarten Mark , Narla Shanthi , Gardner Jackie , Siegel Michael , Ibad Sidra , Silverberg Nanette B.
Published: March 2024

Importance

Evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of vitiligo in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients in the US are needed.

Objective

To develop evidence- and consensus-based expert recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of vitiligo in young patients.

Evidence Review

A process was developed to produce consensus recommendations addressing questions regarding pediatric vitiligo. A librarian-conducted literature review was performed using articles that met the inclusion criteria: published in English, containing primary data (including meta-analysis) and pediatric-specific data, and analysis of 6 or more patients. Included articles were graded by the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy criteria and Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine’s Levels of Evidence and Grades of Recommendation. Research questions were reviewed on May 9, 2022, through a video conference. One month after the conference, participants participated in an online survey documenting their level of agreement with the generated statements, using a 5-point Likert scale.

Findings

Articles on topical corticosteroids and/or topical calcineurin inhibitors (n = 50), topical Janus kinase inhibitors (n = 5), pseudocatalase (n = 2), and microdermabrasion (n = 2) met inclusion criteria. Forty-two recommendations were made on the diagnosis of vitiligo and optimal topical therapeutics, with 33 recommendations obtaining a 70% or greater composite agreement and strong agreement. Topical calcineurin inhibitors twice daily, topical corticosteroids with time limitation due to atrophy risk, and topical ruxolitinib, 1.5%, cream—used off-label for patients younger than 12 years and limited to nonsegmental vitiligo—were identified as evidence-based first-line therapies in the management of pediatric and adolescent patients, with specific guidance on age-based data, minimum therapeutic trial of 6 months or greater, prolonged therapy to prevent recurrence, and the positive benefit of coordinated use of UV therapeutic sources.

Conclusions and Relevance

Evidence supports the use of topical calcineurin inhibitors, topical corticosteroids, and topical Janus kinase inhibitors as effective therapeutics for vitiligo in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients, with specific decisions on choice of agent based on factors such as site location, body surface area, and age.
Adjuvant Immunotherapy in Stage II Melanoma—Further Risk Stratification is Needed
Authors: Rashdan Hannah , Adamson Adewole S. , Semenov Yevgeniy R.
Published: March 2024

This Viewpoint reviews the evidence for immune checkpoint inhibitor use in the adjuvant setting, discusses the individual and societal risks, benefits, and costs associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors, and highlights the need for more targeted patient selection approaches.
Mal de Meleda
Authors: Ho Pei-Yun , Lin Yi-Tsz
Published: March 2024

This case report describes diffuse waxy palmoplantar hyperkeratosis in a symmetrically well-demarcated “gloves and socks” distribution with nail dystrophy.
Adjuvant Ovarian Function Suppression in Premenopausal Hormone Receptor–Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Basmadjian Robert B. , Lupichuk Sasha , Xu Yuan , Quan May Lynn , Cheung Winson Y. , Brenner Darren R.
Published: March 2024

Importance

Few oncology studies have assessed the effectiveness of adjuvant ovarian function suppression (OFS) in observational settings for premenopausal hormone receptor–positive breast cancer. Target trial emulation is increasingly used for estimating treatment outcomes in observational cohorts.

Objectives

To describe hormone therapy and OFS treatment patterns (aim 1), examine the association between adding OFS to tamoxifen (TAM) or aromatase inhibitor (AI) and survival (aim 2), and examine the association between duration of hormone treatment (TAM or AI) plus OFS (H-OFS) and survival (aim 3).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based cohort study included all premenopausal, early-stage breast cancer diagnoses between 2010 and 2020 in Alberta, Canada. Target trial emulation was conducted. Eligibility criteria were directly modeled after the Suppression of Ovarian Function Trial (SOFT) and Tamoxifen and Exemestane Trial (TEXT). Participants were followed up for a maximum of 5 years. Data were analyzed from July 2022 through March 2023.

Exposures

For aim 2, exposures were receiving the following baseline treatments for 2 years: AI + OFS (AI-OFS), TAM + OFS (T-OFS), and TAM alone. For aim 3, exposures were a 2-year or greater and a less than 2-year duration of H-OFS.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Recurrence-free survival was the primary outcome of interest. Marginal structural Cox models with inverse probability treatment and censoring weights were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs), adjusted for baseline and time-varying confounding variables.

Results

Among 3434 female patients with premenopausal, early-stage breast cancer diagnoses (median [IQR] age, 45 [40-48] years), 2647 individuals satisfied SOFT and TEXT eligibility criteria. There were 2260 patients who initiated TAM, 232 patients who initiated T-OFS, and 155 patients who initiated AI-OFS; 192 patients received H-OFS for 2 or more years, and 195 patients received H-OFS for less than 2 years. The 5-year recurrence risks were not significantly lower in AI-OFS vs TAM (HR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.38-1.33) or T-OFS vs TAM (HR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.50-1.45) groups. Patients receiving H-OFS for 2 or more years had significantly better 5-year recurrence-free survival compared with those receiving H-OFS for less than 2 years (HR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.54-0.90).

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found no significant reductions in recurrence risk for AI-OFS and T-OFS compared with TAM alone. H-OFS duration for at least 2 years was associated with significantly improved recurrence-free survival.
Adolescent Psychedelic Use and Psychotic or Manic Symptoms
Authors: Simonsson Otto , Mosing Miriam A. , Osika Walter , Ullén Fredrik , Larsson Henrik , Lu Yi , Wesseldijk Laura W.
Published: March 2024

Importance

While psychedelic-assisted therapy has shown promise in the treatment of certain psychiatric disorders, little is known about the potential risk of psychotic or manic symptoms following naturalistic psychedelic use, especially among adolescents.

Objective

To investigate associations between naturalistic psychedelic use and self-reported psychotic or manic symptoms in adolescents using a genetically informative design.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This study included a large sample of adolescent twins (assessed at age 15, 18, and 24 years) born between July 1992 and December 2005 from the Swedish Twin Registry and cross-sectionally evaluated the associations between past psychedelic use and psychotic or manic symptoms at age 15 years. Individuals were included if they answered questions related to past use of psychedelics. Data were analyzed from October 2022 to November 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Primary outcome measures were self-reported psychotic and manic symptoms at age 15 years. Lifetime use of psychedelics and other drugs was also assessed at the same time point.

Results

Among the 16 255 participants included in the analyses, 8889 were female and 7366 were male. Among them, 541 participants reported past use of psychedelics, most of whom (535 of 541 [99%]) also reported past use of other drugs (ie, cannabis, stimulants, sedatives, opioids, inhalants, or performance enhancers). When adjusting for substance-specific and substance-aggregated drug use, psychedelic use was associated with reduced psychotic symptoms in both linear regression analyses (β, −0.79; 95% CI, −1.18 to −0.41 and β, −0.39; 95% CI, −0.50 to −0.27, respectively) and co-twin control analyses (β, −0.89; 95% CI, −1.61 to −0.16 and β, −0.24; 95% CI, −0.48 to −0.01, respectively). In relation to manic symptoms, likewise adjusting for substance-specific and substance-aggregated drug use, statistically significant interactions were found between psychedelic use and genetic vulnerability to schizophrenia (β, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.32 and β, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.02 to 0.32, respectively) or bipolar I disorder (β, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.36 and β, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.33, respectively).

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings in this study suggest that, after adjusting for other drug use, naturalistic use of psychedelic may be associated with lower rates of psychotic symptoms among adolescents. At the same time, the association between psychedelic use and manic symptoms seems to be associated with genetic vulnerability to schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder. These findings should be considered in light of the study’s limitations and should therefore be interpreted with caution.