bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Singular continuous spectrum under rank one perturbations and localization for random hamiltonians
Authors: Simon Barry , Wolff Tom
Published: April 2007

We consider a selfadjoint operator, A, and a selfadjoint rank‐one projection, P, onto a vector, φ, which is cyclic for A. In terms of the spectral measure dμAφ, we give necessary and sufficient conditions for A + λ P to have empty singular continuous spectrum or to have only point spectrum for a.e. λ. We apply these results to questions of localization in the one‐ and multi‐dimensional Anderson models.
Asymptotic behavior of solutions of certain parabolic problems with space and time dependent coefficients
Authors: Stredulinsky E. W. , Meyer‐Spasche Rita , Lortz Dietrich
Published: April 2007

Given a bounded domain G ⊂ Rm, m ≧ 2, we study weak formulations of parabolic problems

(Si)

L1 and L2 are uniformly elliptic differential operators with time and space dependent coefficients; γ1 = 1, γ2 a real function. Problem (S3) is the “time‐reversed” version of (S2): L3 = −L2, γ3 = γ2. Equations (S1), (S2) are supplemented with an initial condition, a decay condition for ∣x∣ → ∞ and conditions for smoothness or “matching” on the interface ∂G × ℝ+. Since (S3) is a backward equation the prescription of initial values is not appropriate and has to be replaced by a normalization condition for the initial values.

We prove existence of unique weak solutions of all three problems and show that the solutions of (S1) decay exponentially, while the solutions of the other two problems stay bounded for all times. In an appendix we characterize exterior harmonic functions of given decay rates at infinity.
Explicit solutions of the viscous model vorticity equation
Authors: Schochet Steven
Published: April 2007

Explicit solutions are found for the viscous version of the model vorticity equation recently proposed by P. Constantin, P. D. Lax, and A. Majda:

where H(w) is the Hilbert transform of w, and v is a positive constant. Various properties of these solutions, including the fact that they blow up after a finite time, are discussed.
The neumann problem for equations of monge‐ampère type
Authors: Lions P.‐L. , Trudinger N. S. , Urbas J. I. E.
Published: April 2007

We prove the existence of a classical solution to a Neumann type problem for nonlinear elliptic equations of Monge‐Ampère type. The methods depend upon the establishment of a priori derivative estimates up to order two and yield a sharp result for the equation of prescribed Gauss curvature. We also present applications to asymptotic problems which approach the non‐unique case and maximum principles for linear equations of Aleksandrov‐Bakelman type.
Shock waves for compressible navier‐stokes equations are stable
Authors: Liu Tai‐Ping
Published: April 2007

It is shown that shock waves for the compressible Navier‐Stokes equations are nonlinearly stable. A perturbation of a shock wave tends to the shock wave, properly translated in phase, as time tends to infinity. Through the consideration of conservation of mass, momentum and energy we obtain an a priori estimate of the amount of translation of the shock wave and the strength of the linear and nonlinear diffusion waves that arise due to the perturbation. Our techniques include the energy method for parabolic‐hyperbolic systems, the decomposition of waves, and the energy‐characteristic method for viscous conservation laws introduced earlier by the author.
Symmetry and phaselocking in chains of weakly coupled oscillators
Authors: Kopell N. , Ermentrout G. B.
Published: April 2007

Weakly coupled chains of oscillators with nearest‐neighbor interactions are analyzed for phaselocked solutions. It is shown that the symmetry properties of the coupling affect the qualitative form of the phaselocked solutions and the scaling behavior of the system as the number of oscillators grows without bound. It is also shown that qualitative behavior of these solutions depends on whether the coupling is “diffusive” or “I synaptic”. terms defined in the paper. The methods include the demonstration that the equations for phaselocked solutions can be approximated by a singularly perturbed two‐point (continuum) boundary value problem that is easier to analyze; the issue of convergence of the phaselocked solutions to solutions of the continuum equation is closely related to questions involving numerical entropy in computation schemes for a conservation law. An application to the neurophysiology of motor behavior is discussed briefly.
The mass of an asymptotically flat manifold
Authors: Bartnik Robert
Published: April 2007

We show that the mass of an asymptotically flat n‐manifold is a geometric invariant. The proof is based on harmonic coordinates and, to develop a suitable existence theory, results about elliptic operators with rough coefficients on weighted Sobolev spaces are summarised. Some relations between the mass, scalar curvature and harmonic maps are described and the positive mass theorem for n‐dimensional spin manifolds is proved.
Homogenization of elliptic equations with principal part not in divergence form and hamiltonian with quadratic growth
Authors: Bensoussan A. , Boccardo L. , Murat F.
Published: April 2007

In this paper, we consider the following problem:

equation image

Here the coefficients aij and bi are smooth, periodic with respect to the second variable, and the matrix (aij)ij is uniformly elliptic. The Hamiltonian H is locally Lipschitz continuous with respect to uϵ and Duϵ, and has quadratic growth with respect to Duϵ. The Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Beliman equations of some stochastic control problems are of this type.

Our aim is to pass to the limit in (0ϵ) as ϵ tends to zero. We assume the coefficients bi to be centered with respect to the invariant measure of the problem (see the main assumption (3.13)). Then we derive L∞, H and W, p0 > 2, estimates for the solutions of (0ϵ). We also prove the following corrector's result:

equation image

This allows us to pass to the limit in (0ϵ) and to obtain

equation image

This problem is of the same type as the initial one. When (0ϵ) is the Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman equation of a stochastic control problem, then (00) is also a Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman equation but one corresponding to a modified set of controls.
A stable manifold theorem for the curve shortening equation
Authors: Epstein C. L. , Weinstein M. I.
Published: April 2007

We present a family of homothetic solutions to the equation for a planar curve

and prove the existence of nonlinear stable and unstable manifolds about each such solution.
On the riemann problem for a prototype of a mixed type conservation law
Authors: Holden Helge
Published: April 2007

We study the system of conservation laws given by magnified image With initial value magnified image The system is elliptic when u2 + v2 < ρ2 and hyperbolic when u2 + v2 ≧ ρ2. Following Liu's construction it is found that the system always has a weak solution which however is not necessarily unique.
Unraveling the o‐Methoxy Effect in the CO/Ethene Copolymerization Reaction by Diphosphanepalladium(II) Catalysis
Authors: Bianchini Claudio , Meli Andrea , Oberhauser Werner , Claver Carmen , Garcia Suarez Eduardo J.
Published: April 2007

Relevant steps in the CO/ethene copolymerization reaction, namely the migratory insertion of [Pd(Me)(CO)(P‐P)]BAr′4 and the carbonylation of the β‐keto chelates [Pd(CH2CH2C(O)Me)(P‐P)]BAr′4 have been studied by in situ high‐pressure NMR spectroscopy in CH2Cl2; P‐P = 1,2‐bis[bis(2‐methoxyphenyl)phosphanyl]ethane or 1,3‐bis[bis(2‐methoxyphenyl)phosphanyl]propane. This study, backed by batch catalytic reactions in the same solvent, has contributed to rationalizing the higher catalytic activity of PdII catalysts modified with o‐methoxy‐substituted diphosphane ligands as compared to analogous PdII catalysts with 1,2‐bis(diphenylphosphanyl)ethane (dppe) and 1,3‐bis(diphenylphosphanyl)propane (dppp) ligands. It was found that o‐MeO substituents on the phosphorus aryl rings ease the opening of the β‐chelate ring by CO and affect the kinetics of the overall CO/ethene copolymerization. Indeed, unlike the catalysts with the dppe and dppp ligands, the rate of carbonylation of the o‐MeO‐modified β‐keto chelates is limited by the Pd(alkyl)(CO) migratory insertion, which makes the overall copolymerization process independent of the CO pressure. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Organocatalysis with Chiral Formamides: Asymmetric Allylation and Reduction of Imines
Authors: Baudequin Christine , Chaturvedi Devdutt , Tsogoeva Svetlana B.
Published: April 2007

Simple aldimine, derived from p‐nitrobenzaldehyde and 2‐aminophenol, reacts with allyltrichlorosilane in the presence of chiral N‐formylproline activator 5 and an L‐proline additive to afford the corresponding homoallylic amine in good yield (84 %) and with moderate enantioselectivity (43 % ee). The role of the second formamide moiety in the activator is crucial to bring about the enhancement in the reaction rate and enantioselectivity, as C2‐chiral bisformamide 1 promotes for the same allylation reaction in higher yield (94 %) and enantioselectivity (83 % ee). Chiral monoformamide 5 (10 mol‐%), with the assistance of HMPA as an additive, also catalyses the asymmetric reduction of ketimine 13 in the presence of trichlorosilane in good yield and enantioselectivity (75 %, 81 % ee). (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Pt‐Nanoparticle Incorporated Carbon Paste Electrode for the Determination of Cu(II) Ion by Anodic Stripping Voltammetry
Authors: Yoon Jang‐Hee , Muthuraman G. , Yang JeeEun , Shim Yoon‐Bo , Won Mi‐Sook
Published: April 2007

Pt‐nanoparticles were synthesized and introduced into a carbon paste electrode (CPE), and the resulting modified electrode was applied to the anodic stripping voltammetry of copper(II) ions. The synthesized Pt‐nanoparticles were characterized by cyclic voltammetry, scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy techniques to confirm the purity and the size of the prepared Pt‐nanoparticles (ca. 20 nm). This incorporated material seems to act as catalysts with preconcentration sites for copper(II) species that enhances the sensitivity of Cu(II) ions to Cu(I) species at a deposition potential of −0.6 V in an aqueous solution. The experimental conditions, such as, the electrode composition, pH of the solution, pre‐concentration time, were optimized for the determination of Cu(II) ion using as‐prepared electrode. The sensitivity changes on the different binder materials and the presence of surfactants in the test solution. The interference effect of the coexisted metals were also investigated. In the presence of surfactants, especially TritonX‐100, the Cu(II) detection limit was lowered to 3.9×10−9 M. However, the Pt‐nanoparticle modified CPE begins to degrade when the period of deposition exceeds to 10 min. Linear response for copper(II) was found in the concentration range between 3.9×10−8 M and 1.6×10−6 M, with an estimated detection limit of 1.6×10−8 M (1.0 ppb) and relative standard deviation was 4.2% (n=5).
Automatic generation control of multi‐area power system using fuzzy logic controller
Authors: Subbaraj P. , Manickavasagam K.
Published: April 2007

This paper presents an application of Fuzzy Logic Controller (FLC) with triangular and gauss membership functions to study Automatic Generation Control (AGC) of a four‐area interconnected power system. Out of the four areas three have steam turbines and one has hydro turbine. All steam turbines in the system contain the reheat effect of non‐linearity and hydro turbine contains upper and lower constraints for generation rate. The result proves that the performance of FLC with Gaussian membership function is better than that of conventional controller. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diverse roles of 2‐arachidonoylglycerol in invasion of prostate carcinoma cells: Location, hydrolysis and 12‐lipoxygenase metabolism
Authors: Endsley Michael P. , Aggarwal Nitin , Isbell Marilyn A. , Wheelock Craig E. , Hammock Bruce D. , Falck John R. , Campbell William B. , Nithipatikom Kasem
Published: April 2007

Endogenous 2‐arachidonoylglycerol (2‐AG) is antiinvasive in androgen‐independent prostate carcinoma (PC‐3) cells. Invasion of PC‐3 cells is also inhibited by exogenously added noladin ether, a non‐hydrolyzable analog of 2‐AG. In contrast, exogenous 2‐AG has the opposite effect. Cell invasion significantly increased with high concentrations of exogenous 2‐AG. In PC‐3 cells, arachidonic acid (AA) and 12‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12‐HETE) concentrations increased along with exogenously added 2‐AG, and 12‐HETE concentrations increased with exogenously added AA. Invasion of PC‐3 cells also increased with exogenously added AA and 12(S)‐HETE but not 12(R)‐HETE. The exogenous 2‐AG‐induced invasion of PC‐3 cells was inhibited by 3‐octylthio‐1,1,1‐trifluoropropan‐2‐one (OTFP, an inhibitor of 2‐AG hydrolysis) and baicalein (a 12‐LO inhibitor). Western blot and RT‐PCR analyses indicated expression of 12‐HETE producing lipoxygenases (LOs), platelet‐type 12‐LO (P‐12‐LO) and leukocyte‐type 12‐LO (L‐12‐LO), in PC‐3 cells. These results suggest that exogenous 2‐AG induced, rather inhibited, cell invasion because of its rapid hydrolysis to free AA, and further metabolism by 12‐LO of AA to 12(S)‐HETE, a promoter of PC cell invasion. The results also suggest that PC‐3 cells and human prostate stromal (WPMY‐1) cells released free AA, 2‐AG, and 12‐HETE. In the microenvironment of the PC cells, this may contribute to the cell invasion. The 2‐AG hydrolysis and concentration of 2‐AG in microenvironment are critical for PC cell's fate. Therefore, inhibitors of 2‐AG hydrolysis could potentially serve as therapeutic agents for the treatment of prostate cancer. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Adenovirus E1A proteins direct subcellular redistribution of Nek9, A NimA‐related kinase
Authors: Pelka Peter , Scimè Anthony , Mandalfino Christina , Joch Monica , Abdulla Parween , Whyte Peter
Published: April 2007

A monoclonal antibody raised against adenovirus E1A‐associated cellular proteins recognized Nek9, a NimA‐related protein kinase. Subcellular fractionation and immunofluorescence indicated that Nek9 was primarily cytoplasmic with a small portion located in the nucleus whereas E1A was primarily nuclear. Although co‐immunoprecipitation experiments indicated that nuclear Nek9 interacted, directly or indirectly, with E1A, the major effect of E1A was to diminish the amount of Nek9 in the nucleus suggesting that E1A alters the subcellular distribution of Nek9 and that the interaction is transient. A Nek9 deletion mutant lacking a central RCC1‐like domain interacted stably with E1A and accumulated in the nucleus in the presence of E1A, possibly representing an intermediate stage of the normally transient Nek9/E1A interaction. The interaction of Nek9 with E1A was dependent on the N‐terminal sequences of E1A. Attempts to stably overexpress either Nek9 or the kinase‐inactive mutant in various cell lines were unsuccessful; however, the presence of E1A allowed stable overexpression of both proteins. These results suggest that E1A disrupts a nuclear function of Nek9. J. Cell. Physiol. 212: 13–25, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of activity‐dependent gene expression profiles reveals specific subsets of genes induced by different routes of Ca2+ entry in cultured rat cortical neurons
Authors: Xiang Guangxin , Pan Liangbin , Xing Wanli , Zhang Liang , Huang Lihua , Yu Jian , Zhang Rui , Wu Jianping , Cheng Jing , Zhou Yuxiang
Published: April 2007

Neuronal activity‐dependent gene transcription is a key feature of long‐lasting synaptic strengthening associated with learning and memory, as well as activity‐dependent neuroprotection. To comprehensively determine the molecular alterations, we carried out genome‐wide microarray analysis in cultured rat cortical neurons treated with specific pharmacological agents, a model with alterations in neuronal activity, which were monitored by multi‐site electrophysiological recordings. Of the approximately 27,000 genes, the expression of 248 genes was strongly changed in response to enhanced activity. These genes encompass a large number of members of distinct families, including synaptic vesicle proteins, ion channels, signal transduction molecules, synaptic growth regulators, and others. Two subsets of these genes were further confirmed to be specifically induced by Ca2+ influx through N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors and L‐type voltage‐gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs). In addition, those genes dynamically regulated by the enhanced activity were also elucidated, as well as those candidate genes associated with synaptic plasticity and neuroprotection. Our findings therefore would help define the molecular mechanisms that occur in response to neuronal activity and identify specific clusters of genes that contribute to activity‐dependent and Ca2+‐inducible modulation of brain development and function. J. Cell. Physiol. 212: 126–136, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Epigenetic inactivation of the metastasis suppressor RECK enhances invasion of human colon cancer cells
Authors: Cho Chun‐Yu , Wang Jui‐Ho , Chang Hui‐Chiu , Chang Chong‐Keng , Hung Wen‐Chun
Published: April 2007

Down‐regulation of RECK, an important metastasis suppressor gene, has been found in human colon cancer. However, the molecular mechanism for this down‐ regulation and its biological significance are still unclear. In the present study, we investigated whether down‐regulation of RECK is caused by epigenetic inactivation via promoter methylation and tested the effect of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitor on RECK expression and cell invasion. The mRNA and protein levels of RECK in colon tumor tissues and their normal counterparts were compared. We found that down‐regulation of RECK was found in 48% of the twenty five tumors analyzed. MSP analysis demonstrated that methylation of RECK promoter was detected in 44% (11/25) of the tumor tissues and a strong correlation between down‐regulation and promoter methylation was found (P = 0.028). Promoter methylation was also found in SW480 and SW620 human colon cancer cell lines. DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitor 5′‐azacytidine reversed promoter methylation, restored RECK expression and suppressed invasion by these two cell lines. Restoration of RECK is critical for 5′‐azacytidine‐mediated suppression of cell invasion because inhibition of RECK by a specific antibody significantly attenuated the anti‐invasive ability of 5′‐azacytidine. Taken together, our results suggest that down‐regulation of the metastasis suppressor RECK in colon cancer is associated with promoter methylation and that a DNMT inhibitor may restore RECK expression to inhibit cell invasion. J. Cell. Physiol. 213: 65–69, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐term effects of fertilization on some soil properties under rainfed soybean‐wheat cropping in the Indian Himalayas
Authors: Prakash Ved , Bhattacharyya Ranjan , Selvakumar Govindan , Kundu Samaresh , Gupta Hari Shanker
Published: April 2007

This study aims to examine the effects of long‐term fertilization and cropping on some chemical and microbiological properties of the soil in a 32 y old long‐term fertility experiment at Almora (Himalayan region, India) under rainfed soybean‐wheat rotation. Continuous annual application of recommended doses of chemical fertilizer and 10 Mg ha–1 FYM on fresh‐weight basis (NPK + FYM) to soybean (Glycine max L.) sustained not only higher productivity of soybean and residual wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) crop, but also resulted in build‐up of total soil organic C (SOC), total soil N, P, and K. Concentration of SOC increased by 40% and 70% in the NPK + FYM–treated plots as compared to NPK (43.1 Mg C ha–1) and unfertilized control plots (35.5 Mg C ha–1), respectively. Average annual contribution of C input from soybean was 29% and that from wheat was 24% of the harvestable aboveground biomass yield. Annual gross C input and annual rate of total SOC enrichment from initial soil in the 0–15 cm layer were 4362 and 333 kg C ha–1, respectively, for the plots under NPK + FYM. It was observed that the soils under the unfertilized control, NK and N + FYM treatments, suffered a net annual loss of 5.1, 5.2, and 15.8 kg P ha–1, respectively, whereas the soils under NP, NPK, and NPK + FYM had net annual gains of 25.3, 18.8, and 16.4 kg P ha–1, respectively. There was net negative K balance in all the treatments ranging from 6.9 kg ha–1 y–1 in NK to 82.4 kg ha–1 y–1 in N + FYM–treated plots. The application of NPK + FYM also recorded the highest levels of soil microbial‐biomass C, soil microbial‐biomass N, populations of viable and culturable soil microbes.
Nutrient deficiencies in lesser yam (Dioscorea esculenta) characterized using constant–water table sand culture
Authors: O'Sullivan Jane N. , Ernest James
Published: April 2007

Nutritional deficiencies in Dioscorea esculenta (Lour.) Burk were studied using a novel culture system, applying a constant water table in acid‐washed sand, and a demand‐driven nutrient supply schedule. This system provided a stable growth environment and was highly efficient with respect to resources and labor. Yam plants (cv. Balbal) were propagated from 30 g tuber head setts and grown for 12 or 20 weeks, with nutrients supplied in the water reservoir to meet demand according to weekly leaf counts. Deficiencies of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulfur were induced by reducing supply of the relevant nutrient to one tenth of normal. Deficiencies of iron, boron, manganese, zinc, copper, and molybdenum were induced by omitting the relevant nutrient from the culture medium. After 12 weeks, leaf blades of the main stem were sampled from four positions (immature, young expanded, mid, and old) weighed and analyzed for nutrient concentration, and dry weight of plant parts was recorded. Significant growth reduction was achieved for each deficiency except Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mo, which nonetheless developed some foliar symptoms. Effects on nutrient concentrations in leaves are reported, providing concentrations indicative of adequate and deficient status. Dioscorea esculenta was found to be particularly sensitive to Mn deficiency, although symptom presentation was atypical. Unusually low translocation of phloem‐mobile nutrients was also observed, paralleling reported observations on D. alata.
Vascular reconstruction with the superficial femoral vein following major oncologic resection
Authors: McKay Andrew , Motamedi Mona , Temple Walley , Mack Lloyd , Moore Randy
Published: April 2007

Introduction

Involvement of critical vascular structures has historically been considered a contraindication to tumor resection. This study describes outcomes following radical oncologic resection with concomitant resection of critical vascular structures and reconstruction with the superficial femoral vein (SFV).

Methods

All patients undergoing radical oncologic resection requiring resection of major vascular structures and concomitant reconstruction using the SFV as conduit were retrospectively reviewed. Primary outcomes were surgical morbidity and mortality; secondary measures included long‐term patency and oncologic outcomes.

Results

Seven patients were included. There were three retroperitoneal and two groin sarcomas, and two squamous cell carcinomas metastatic to groin lymph nodes. No perioperative mortality occurred. Five patients experienced minor morbidity. One vein graft in a patient with pre‐existing chronic deep venous thrombosis (DVT) occluded post‐operatively. No subsequent long‐term venous or arterial graft occlusions occurred (median 20.2 months, range 9.0–49.7). Two patients died of tumor recurrence during follow‐up.

Conclusions

Resection of tumors involving critical vascular structures is feasible. The SFV conduit is a versatile option for major vascular reconstruction, providing good long‐term patency rates with acceptable morbidity and mortality. Vascular resection and reconstruction with the SFV offers another technique to provide limb‐sparing surgery in patients traditionally offered only amputation, while providing favorable oncologic outcomes. J. Surg. Oncol. 2007;96:151–159. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Combined liver and inferior vena cava resection for hepatic malignancy
Authors: Delis Spiros G. , Madariaga Juan , Ciancio Gaetano
Published: April 2007

Objective

The experience from a single center, in combined liver and inferior vena cava (IVC) resection for liver tumors, is presented.

Methods

Twelve patients underwent a combined liver resection with IVC replacement. The median age was 45 years (range 35–67 years). Resections were carried out for hepatocellular carcinoma (n = 4), colorectal metastases (n = 6), and cholangiocarcinoma (n = 2). Liver resections included eight right lobectomies and four left trisegmentectomies. The IVC was reconstructed with ringed Gore‐Tex tube graft.

Results

No perioperative deaths were reported. The median operative blood transfusion requirement was 2 units (range 0–12 units) and the median operative time was 5 hr. Median hospital stay was 10 days (range 8–25 days). Three patients had evidence of postoperative liver failure, resolved with supportive management. Two patients developed bile leaks, resolved conservatively. With a median follow up of 24 months, all vascular reconstructions were patent and no evidence of graft infection was documented.

Conclusions

Aggressive surgical management of liver tumors, offer the only hope for cure or palliation. We suggest that liver resection with vena cava replacement may be performed safely, with acceptable morbidity, by specialized surgical teams. J. Surg. Oncol. 2007;96: 258–264. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ovarian metastasis from colorectal cancer: Prognostic value of radical oophorectomy
Authors: Erroi Francesca , Scarpa Marco , Angriman Imerio , Cecchetto Attilio , Pasetto Lara , Mollica Eleonora , Bettiol Marina , Ruffolo Cesare , Polese Lino , Cillo Umberto , D'Amico Davide F.
Published: April 2007

Background

Ovarian metastases from primary colorectal cancer occur in 3–8% of female patients. The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic value of radical oophorectomy for ovarian metastasis from colorectal cancer.

Patients and methods

From our series of 859 patients operated for colorectal cancer from 1982 to 2005 ten patients with isolated ovarian metastasis were retrieved. Ovarian colorectal metastasis diagnosis was confirmed by pathology revision. Overall and disease‐free survival after radical oophorectomy for metastases were assessed and compared with literature data.

Results

The median follow‐up from ovarian metastases resection was 36 months (range 194–14). Survival analysis showed that survival rate after ovarian metastasectomy was 100% at 1 year and 80% at 5 years of follow up.

Conclusion

Our study, although limited by a relatively short follow‐up and small sample size, shows that bilateral oophorectomy for ovarian metastasis from colorectal cancer has a good impact on disease‐free and overall survival. J. Surg. Oncol. 2007;96:113–117. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The cryosurgical treatment of chondroblastoma of bone: Long‐term oncologic and functional results
Authors: van der Geest Ingrid C. M. , van Noort Marinel P. , Schreuder H.W. Bart , Pruszczynski Maciej , de Rooy Jacky W.J. , Veth René P.H.
Published: April 2007

Background

Chondroblastoma of bone is a rare tumor that occurs most often in the epiphysis or apophysis of long bones. This benign tumor sometimes shows aggressive or malignant behaviour, and rarely metastases occur. Since wide resection often leads to growth impairment, intra‐lesional curettage followed by an adjuvant therapy is developed to decrease the negative effects on growth and function without increased recurrence rates.

Patients and Methods

Between 1980 and 2001, 18 patients were treated for chondroblastoma of bone. Since 1989 cryosurgery has been used as an adjuvant treatment. The functional and oncologic results at follow‐up were studied.

Results

Four patients were treated with curettage, and four with wide resection without adjuvant therapy. One patient developed a local recurrence and distant metastases. Ten patients were treated with curettage and cryosurgery. One patient developed a local recurrence 6 years later that was treated with curettage and cryosurgery again. No serious complications from cryosurgery occurred and the functional results at follow‐up were excellent [mean MSTS score at follow‐up 29].

Conclusions

Chondroblastoma of bone is a benign tumor with a relatively high recurrence rate. The local recurrence rates can be decreased with cryosurgery as a local adjuvant therapy with excellent functional results. J. Surg. Oncol. 2007;96: 230–234. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hepatectomy and lung radiofrequency ablation for hepatic and subsequent pulmonary metastases from colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Yan Tristan D. , King Julie , Ebrahimi Ardalan , Sjarif Adrian , Glenn Derek , Steinke Karin , Morris David L.
Published: April 2007

Background

Lung radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a relatively safe procedure and may have a useful role in the management of non‐surgical candidates with colorectal pulmonary metastases.

Methods

This study consisted of 30 patients, who had previously undergone hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastases and subsequently developed pulmonary metastases, which were then treated with lung RFA. Lung RFA was performed percutaneously under local anesthesia and conscious sedation. The primary aim of this article was to demonstrate the survival outcome in this particular patient population after lung RFA. The secondary aim was to assess the prognostic indicators for survival after lung RFA.

Results

The median survival after lung RFA was 32 months, with 3‐year survival rate of 45%. The following four factors were found to significantly influence survival in univariate analysis: size of the largest pulmonary metastasis (P = 0.032), proximity of metastases to major pulmonary vessels (P = 0.003), pre‐lung RFA CEA levels (P = 0.013) and post‐lung RFA CEA levels (P = 0.022).

Conclusions

Lung RFA may have a useful role in the management of non‐surgical candidates with colorectal pulmonary metastases. J. Surg. Oncol. 2007;96:367–373. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Distribution and patterns of lymph nodes metastases and micrometastases in the mesorectum of rectal cancer
Authors: Zheng Yang‐Chun , Zhou Zong‐Guang , Li Li , Lei Wen‐Zhang , Deng Yi‐Ling , Chen Dai‐Yun , Liu Wei‐Ping
Published: April 2007

Background and Objectives

Facts buried in the mesorectum remain to be unveiled. This study investigated the number, size, and detailed distribution of lymph nodes metastases and micrometastases within the mesorectum of rectal cancer.

Methods

Thirty‐one patients who underwent total mesorectal excision (TME) were treated with lymph node revealing solution to retrieve lymph nodes, which were submitted to hematoxylin and eosin (HE) examination and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining.

Results

The mean number of mesorectal nodes per case was 17.7. The mean size of metastatic, micrometastatic, and isolated tumor cells (ITC) harbored nodes was 5.2 mm, 4.5 mm, and 3.3 mm, respectively. Most of the metastatic (92.1%), micrometastatic and ITC‐involved nodes (69.2%) were located along the superior rectal artery (SRA). Posterior‐wall located tumor might spread along both sides of the mesorectum simultaneously (P = 0.34), while lateral‐wall located tumor spread preferably to ipsolateral side versus contralateral side (P = 0.012).

Conclusion

Most of the metastases and micrometastases positive lymph nodes were smaller than 5 mm and distributed along the SRA. The patterns of lymph nodes spread were related to the circumferential situation of tumor in the rectal wall. Surgical excision of the rectal cancer should completely remove the whole mesorectum, especially to avoid any damage of the mesorectum on tumor side. J. Surg. Oncol. 2007;96: 213–219. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A role for cyclooxygenase‐2 in ultraviolet light‐induced skin carcinogenesis
Authors: Rundhaug Joyce E. , Mikulec Carol , Pavone Amy , Fischer Susan M.
Published: April 2007

Nonmelanoma skin cancer is the most prevalent cancer in the United States and its incidence is on the rise. These cancers generally arise on sun‐exposed areas of the body and the ultraviolet (UV) B spectrum of sunlight has been clearly identified as the major carcinogen responsible for skin cancer development. Besides inducing DNA damage directly, UV exposure of the skin induces the expression of the enzyme cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), which catalyzes the first step in the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, the primary product in skin being prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). COX‐2 has been shown to be overexpressed in premalignant lesions as well as in nonmelanoma skin cancers in both humans and mice chronically exposed to UV. Through the use of COX‐2‐selective inhibitors and COX‐2 knockout mice, it has been shown that UV‐induced COX‐2 expression plays a major role in UV‐induced PGE2 production, inflammation, edema, keratinocyte proliferation, epidermal hyperplasia, and generation of a pro‐oxidant state leading to oxidative DNA damage. Chronic exposure to UV leads to chronic up‐regulation of COX‐2 expression and chronic inflammation along with the accumulation of DNA damage and mutations, all of which combine to induce malignant changes in epidermal keratinocytes and skin cancers. Both inhibition of COX‐2 activity and reduction in COX‐2 expression by genetic manipulations significantly reduce, while overexpression of COX‐2 in transgenic mice significantly increases UV‐induced skin carcinogenesis. Together these studies demonstrate that COX‐2 expression/activity is critical to the development of UV‐related nonmelanoma skin cancers. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Targeting Bcl‐XL for prevention and therapy of skin cancer
Authors: Zhang Jack , Bowden G. Tim
Published: April 2007

Apoptosis plays an important role in skin carcinogenesis. Bcl‐XL, an antiapoptotic Bcl‐2 family member, is a key regulator in the process. Aberrant expression of Bcl‐XL allows cells carrying mutations to survive and propagate. Overexpression of Bcl‐XL is correlated with tumor malignancy and invasion. Importantly, deregulation of Bcl‐XL confers drug resistance to chemotherapy. Therefore, targeting Bcl‐XL in combination with conventional chemotherapy is a promising way to pursue cancer chemotherapy. Several compounds targeting Bcl‐XL expression or function have shown their potential in chemoprevention and of chemotherapy of cancer. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The silent negotiation or how to elicit collective information for group MCDA without excessive discussion
Authors: Pictet Jacques , Bollinger Dominique
Published: April 2007

Silent negotiation is a procedure designed to help a group of people elicit collective evaluations or weights to be used in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA). Its main feature relies on the fact that the interaction between the participants is based—during specific phases—on what they do (i.e. moving cards), and not on what they say. This explains the apparent paradox of the procedure name.

The silent negotiation might be useful in many situations, particularly when a unique collective result is required and no argument seems able to influence the participants' opinion. A good example is the elicitation of weights for public procurement.

The article describes in detail the elicitation of collective weights using the Cards elicitation procedure and the necessary changes to adapt it to: (1) the evaluation of alternatives on a given criterion and (2) various MCDA methods. The different ways to customize the procedure—by adapting the variables such as the number of moves allowed by round—are presented and discussed. Tests and real‐world cases are briefly described. Finally, the main issues related to the silent negotiation are discussed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Low plasma uric acid level in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Annanmaki Tua , Muuronen Antti , Murros Kari
Published: April 2007

Earlier studies suggest that low plasma uric acid level is a risk factor for Parkinson's disease (PD), and that uric acid associates with iron‐binding proteins. We therefore decided to examine plasma uric acid levels and markers of peripheral iron metabolism in PD patients and healthy controls. For the study, 40 patients with PD and 29 controls underwent clinical screening, laboratory testing, and body mass index (BMI) measurement. The average consumption of different foodstuffs and dairy products was estimated. Plasma uric acid level was significantly lower in the patients than in the controls. There were no significant differences in the levels of plasma iron parameters, but plasma uric acid correlated strongly with serum ferritin both in the patient and the control group. The BMI was slightly lower in the patients compared with the controls despite equal daily calorie consumption. Plasma uric acid level is low in patients with PD, which may have implications for both the disease pathogenesis and treatment recommendations. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Inhibition of human recombinant cytochromes P450 CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 bytrans‐resveratrol methyl ethers
Authors: Mikstacka Renata , Przybylska Dorota , Rimando Agnes M. , Baer‐Dubowska Wanda
Published: April 2007

CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 are the inducible forms of cytochrome P450 expressed in extrahepatic tissues, which are responsible for the biotransformation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, heterocyclic amines and estradiol to the carcinogenic intermediates. The aim of our research was to determine and compare the inhibitory effect of naturally occurring analogues oftrans‐resveratrol on the catalytic activities of human recombinant CYP1A1 and CYP1B1. Pinostilbene (3,4′‐dihydroxy‐5‐methoxystilbene), desoxyrhapontigenin (3,5‐dihydroxy‐4′‐methoxystilbene), and pterostilbene (3,5‐dimethoxy‐4′‐hydroxystilbene) appeared to be very potent inhibitors of CYP1A1 catalytic activity withKivalues of 0.13, 0.16 and 0.57 μM, respectively. Results from this study indicate thattrans‐resveratrol analogues in which the hydroxy groups are substituted by methoxy groups exhibit a remarkably stronger inhibitory effect towards CYP1A1 in comparison to the parent compound. On the contrary, the potency of pinostilbene, desoxyrhapontigenin and pterostilbene towards CYP1B1 withKivalues of 0.90, 2.06 and 0.91 μM, respectively, was comparable to that of resveratrol. It appears that between these analogues, inhibition of CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 catalytic activities does not vary much regardless of the number and position of methylether substitution. The results suggest that thetrans‐resveratrol analogues: pinostilbene, desoxyrhapontigenin and pterostilbene, which occur in some food plants, might be considered as promising chemopreventive agents.
Heme oxygenase induction by cyanidin‐3‐O‐β‐glucoside in cultured human endothelial cells
Authors: Sorrenti Valeria , Mazza Francesco , Campisi Agata , Di Giacomo Claudia , Acquaviva Rosaria , Vanella Luca , Galvano Fabio
Published: April 2007

The aim of the present research was to investigate the effect of cyanidin‐3‐O‐β‐glucoside (C3G) on heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), inducible NOS (iNOS) and dimethylarginine dimethylamino hydrolase‐2 (DDAH‐2) expression in cultured endothelial cells. Different concentrations (0.00625–250 μM) of C3G were tested in order to investigate possible beneficial and harmful effects of C3G. Our data demonstrated that C3G increased the induction of eNOS and HO‐1 in a dose‐dependent manner. Higher concentration (62.5–250 μM) also resulted in increase of isoprostane, cGMP and PGE2 levels and in induction of iNOS with consequent oxidative stress. In conclusion, our data evidence that C3G may exert various protective effects against endothelial dysfunction, whereas potentially harmful effects of C3G appear to be limited to concentrations very difficult to be reached in physiological conditions unless there is abundant oral supplementation.
Glucosamine inhibits LPS‐induced COX‐2 and iNOS expression in mouse macrophage cells (RAW 264.7) by inhibition of p38‐MAP kinase and transcription factor NF‐κB
Authors: Rafi Mohamed M. , Yadav Prem N. , Rossi Andrea O.
Published: April 2007

Glucosamine supplements are very promising nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory agents widely used for the treatment of arthritis in animals and humans. In this study, we have proposed the molecular mechanism underlying the anti‐inflammatory properties of glucosamine hydrochloride (GLN) using mouse macrophage cell line (RAW 264.7). Treatment with GLN inhibited LPS‐stimulated nitric oxide (NO) production. Western blotting and RT‐PCR analysis showed that GLN treatment decreased LPS‐induced inducible nitric‐oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) protein and mRNA expression in RAW 264.7 cells, respectively. To further elucidate the mechanism of inhibitory effect of GLN, we studied the LPS‐induced phosphorylation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (pp44/42 and pp38). Our results clearly indicated that GLN treatment resulted in a reduction of pp38, whereas activation of p44/42 was not affected. In addition, LPS‐induced activation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) DNA binding suggests an inhibitory effect of GLN. These results indicate that GLN suppresses the LPS‐induced production of NO, expression of iNOS and COX‐2 by inhibiting NF‐κB activation and phosphorylation of p38 MAP kinase.
Guidelines for the application of arima models in time series
Authors: Jensen Louise
Published: April 2007

Time series analysis has been suggested as a valuable approach to evaluating the effectiveness of nursing interventions. Time series analysis techniques provide the tools for analyzing unique behavioral fluctuations through time and a framework for predicting future changes in the individual. Because of its newness, time series modeling has not been used widely in nursing research, but it can provide information about processes in nursing practice. Despite the utility of the interrupted time series design, a number of problems frequently arise in view of the practical and inferential difficulties in conducting interrupted time series research. The inherent limitations of time series analysis procedures are discussed in application to research problems.
Internal consistency estimates of reliability
Authors: Ferketich Sandra
Published: April 2007

Reliability assessments are appropriate for each research instrument in a study. Measures of internal consistency are a popular set of assessments with Cronbach's alpha being the most favored. Two other measures of internal consistency, theta and omega, have particular characteristics that make their use desirable under certain circumstances. Each of these three measures and its computation is described and examples provided.
How age conditions the relationship between climacteric status and health symptoms in African American women
Authors: Jackson Beryl B. , Taylor Jerome , Pyngolil Mariamma
Published: April 2007

The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the relationship between climacteric status and health symptoms across age cohorts in 522 African American women aged 25–75. Data were collected through home interviews and subjected to hierarchical regression analyses. In the overall sample a direct relationship was found between climacteric status and physical health symptoms but not mental health symptoms. A direct relationship between climacteric status and both physical and mental health symptoms. A direct relationship between climacteric status and both physical and mental health symptoms was found for the younger age cohort 25–34. There was a direct relationship between climacteric status and physical health symptoms but not mental health symptoms for the 35–44 age cohort. The relationship between climacteric status and physical and mental health symptoms held despite controls for education, income, marital status, and body mass.
Potential indicators of insufficient milk supply syndrome
Authors: Hill Pamela D. , Aldag Jean
Published: April 2007

Insufficient milk supply syndrome is a complex phenomenon that has not been adequately investigated. Insufficient milk supply (IMS) is a major reason reported by mothers for early termination of breast‐feeding in both developed and developing countries. Using the IMS conceptual framework by Hill and Humenick (1989), a survey was conducted to determine which set of predictors distinguished between mothers who reported an inadequate supply of breast milk (n = 100) from those who reported an adequate supply of milk (n = 284) during the first 8 weeks postpartum. Factor analysis suggested that Potential Determinant factors Maternal Confidence, Paternal Support, Maternal Health, Mother‐in‐Law Disapproval, and Infant Birthweight accounted for 56.7% of the variance while Potential Indicator factors Baby Behavior, Solid Foods, and Formula accounted for 70.4% of the variance. Using discriminant analysis, factors Maternal Confidence, Maternal Health, Mother‐in‐Law Disapproval, Baby Behavior, Solid Foods, and Formula predicted 78.04% of the cases accurately. The Potential Indicator factors alone predicted 76.58% of the cases accurately. These findings suggest that the IMS model is valid but additional variables may need to be considered.
Families of children with developmental disabilities: An examination of family hardiness
Authors: Failla Salva , Jones Linda Corson
Published: April 2007

Using the Typology Model of Adjustment and Adaptation, a family stress model, relationships among family hardiness, family stressors, family appraisal, coping, social support, and satisfaction with family functioning were examined in a sample of 57 families of children with developmental disabilities. Family hardiness was associated with family appraisal, social support, parental coping related to maintaining family integration, and satisfaction with family functioning. Higher satisfaction with family functioning was correlated with coping‐integration, network support, functional support, and hardiness. Lower satisfaction with family functioning was associated with higher family stressor scores, social support loss, and increased parental age. Over 42% of the variance in family functioning was accounted for by family hardiness, functional support, family stressors, and parental age. The results highlight the value of continued investigations of hardiness in families.
Focus on psychometrics. Factor comparison across studies
Authors: Teel Cynthia , Verran Joyce A.
Published: April 2007

The need to compare the results of factor analysis across studies has become more necessary as substantive and instrumentation studies are replicated across populations. The purpose of this article is to provide a review of four procedures, which utilize factor loadings, to compare factors across studies when the same design and variables are applied to different populations. The techniques described are the Salient Variable Similarity Index (S), the Coefficient of Congruence (CC); the Pearson Correlation Coefficient (r); and, Confirmatory Factor Analysis using latent variable modeling procedures (EQS). The disagreement over use of comparison procedures using factor loadings and those using factor scores is briefly described.