bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Initial Clinical Results of Orthotopic Liver Transplantation for Hepatic Alveolar Echinococcosis
Authors: Li Fuqiang , Yang Meng , Li Bo , Yan Lunang , Zen Yong , Wen Tingfu , Zao Jichun
Published: May 2007

We analyzed the features of 7 patients who underwent orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) from April 2001 to April 2006 for incurable hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (AE) in view of the technical features of the OLT, incidence, and type of complications, as well as patient survival. All 7 patients had biliary diseases that resulted from parasitic involvement of the hilum or a large parasitic lesion that invaded the lobes of the liver due to parasitic involvement of the hepatic veins, which are all typical syndromes of hepatic AE. Five patients had previously undergone surgery for hepatic AE and were at the end stage of liver functional disorder. Four patients' operations were performed under venovenous bypass. The mean duration of surgery was 9.1 hours. After transplantation, one patient experienced biliary leakage but was successfully treated with reoperation. One patient died 21 days later of septicemia caused by pneumonia and multiple organ failure, and another patient died 3 months after OLT from heart failure. The other 5 patients are alive and in good condition after transplantation. Although the transplantation procedure was more difficult than usual in these patients, most achieved prolonged survival and a good quality of life. This study suggests that OLT is feasible for incurable AE of the liver and that this procedure ensures a good clinical outcome. Liver Transpl 13:924–926, 2007. © 2007 AASLD.
Living Donor Liver Transplantation of the Right Lobe for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Cirrhosis in a European Center
Authors: Jonas Sven , Mittler Jens , Pascher Andreas , Schumacher Guido , Theruvath Tom , Benckert Christoph , Rudolph Birgit , Neuhaus Peter
Published: May 2007

Living donor liver transplantation of the right lobe might offer the possibility to extend the eligibility criteria of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in cirrhosis without penalizing patients who are waiting for a graft from a deceased donor. From 1988 to 2005, surgical treatment of HCC was performed in 580 patients (187 transplantation, 393 resection) in a European center. In the transplantation group, 21 patients with HCC in cirrhosis underwent LDLT (11% of all transplantations for HCC; 22% of 96 LDLT). Solitary HCC were accepted irrespective of their diameter unless vascular invasion was detectable. Multiple HCC nodes were considered acceptable up to a diameter of the largest node of 6 cm and a total tumor diameter of 15 cm. The median follow-up period was 26 months (range, 1-65 months). Vascular invasion had occurred in 12 patients (57%). One patient (4.8%) died within 60 days after transplantation from sepsis. Rates of 3-year survival and 3-year recurrence-free survival were 68% and 64%, respectively. Overall 3-year survival rates in patients with HCC in cirrhosis not meeting the Milan criteria (n = 13) or the San Francisco criteria (n = 8) were 62% and 53%, respectively. LDLT is a safe procedure. However, small sample sizes do not yet permit a definitive comparison to be made between the former results obtained after cadaveric donation. So far, the outcome of the patients is in favor of a careful extension of the selection criteria for HCC in cirrhosis. Liver Transpl 13:896–903, 2007. © 2007 AASLD.
Partition reals and the consistency of t > add(R)
Authors: Keremedis Kyriakos
Published: May 2007

We show that it is consistent with ZFC that the additivity number add(R) of the ideal of meager sets of the real line is strictly greater than the tower number t of the reals. MSC: 03E35, 54D20.
Consequences of Schanuel's condition for zeros of exponential terms
Authors: Wolter Helmut
Published: May 2007

Assuming “Schanuel's Condition” for a certain class of exponential fields, Sturm's technique for polynomials in real closed fields can be extended to more complicated exponential terms in the corresponding exponential field. Hence for this class of terms the exact number of zeros can be calculated. These results give deeper insights into the model theory of exponential fields. MSC: 03C65, 03C60, 12L12.
On the Relations Between Discrete and Continuous Complexity Theory
Authors: Meer Klaus
Published: May 2007

Relations between discrete and continuous complexity models are considered. The present paper is devoted to combine both models. In particular we analyze the 3‐Satisfiability problem. The existence of fast decision procedures for this problem over the reals is examined based on certain conditions on the discrete setting. Moreover we study the behaviour of exponential time computations over the reals depending on the real complexity of 3‐Satisfiability. This will be done using tools from complexity theory over the integers.
Feasible Graphs and Colorings
Authors: Cenzer Douglas , Remmel Jeffrey
Published: May 2007

The problem of when a recursive graph has a recursive k‐coloring has been extensively studied by Bean, Schmerl, Kierstead, Remmel, and others. In this paper, we study the polynomial time analogue of that problem. We develop a number of negative and positive results about colorings of polynomial time graphs. For example, we show that for any recursive graph G and for any k, there is a polynomial time graph G′ whose vertex set is {0,1}* such that there is an effective degree preserving correspondence between the set of k‐colorings of G and the set of k‐colorings of G′ and hence there are many examples of k‐colorable polynomial time graphs with no recursive k‐colorings. Moreover, even though every connected 2‐colorable recursive graph is recursively 2‐colorable, there are connected 2‐colorable polynomial time graphs which have no primitive recursive 2‐coloring. We also give some sufficient conditions which will guarantee that a polynomial time graph has a polynomial time or exponential time coloring.
An Axiomatisation of the Conditionals of Post's Many Valued Logics
Authors: Surma Stan J.
Published: May 2007

The paper provides a method for a uniform complete Hilbert‐style axiomatisation of Post's (m, u)‐conditionals and Post's negation, where m is the number of truth values and u is the number of designated truth values (cf. [5]). The main feature of the technique which we employ in this proof generalises the well‐known Kalmár Lemma which was used by its author in his completeness argument for the ordinary, two‐valued logic (cf. [2]).
A Gap Cohomology Group
Authors: Morgan Charles
Published: May 2007

Dan Talayco has recently defined the gap cohomology group of a tower in p(ω)/fin of height ω1. This group is isomorphic to the collection of gaps in the tower modulo the equivalence relation given by two gaps being equivalent (cohomologous) if their levelwise symmetric difference is not a gap in the tower, the group operation being levelwise symmetric difference. Talayco showed that the size of this group is always at least 2N0 and that it attains its greatest possible size, 2N1, if ⋄ holds and also in some generic extensions in which CH fails, for example on adding many Cohen or random reals. In this paper it is shown that there is always some tower whose gap cohomology group has size 2N1. It is still open as to whether there are models in which there are towers whose gap cohomology group has size less than 2ω1.
On End‐Extensions of Models of ¬exp
Authors: Ferreira Fernando
Published: May 2007

Every model of IΔ0is the tally part of a model of the stringlanguage theory Th‐FO (a main feature of which consists in having induction on notation restricted to certainAC0. sets). We show how to “smoothly” introduce in Th‐FO the binary length function, whereby it is possible to make exponential assumptions in models of Th‐FO. These considerations entail that every model of IΔ0+ ¬exp is a proper initial segment of a model of Th‐FO and that amodicumof bounded collection is true in these models.

Mathematics Subject Classification: 03F30, 03C62, 68Q15.
Asymmetric Interpretations for Bounded Theories
Authors: Cantini Andrea
Published: May 2007

We apply the method of asymmetric interpretation to the basic fragment of bounded arithmetic, endowed with a weak collection schema, and to a system of “feasible analysis”, introduced by Ferreira and based on weak König's lemma, recursive comprehension and NP‐notation induction. As a byproduct, we obtain two conservation results.

Mathematics Subject Classification: 03F30, 03F35.
On Overspill Principles and Axiom Schemes for Bounded Formulas
Authors: Borrego‐Díaz Joaquín , Fernández‐Margarit Alejandro , Pérez‐Jiménez Mario
Published: May 2007

We study the theories I∇n, L∇n and overspill principles for ∇n formulas. We show that IEn ⇒ L∇n ⇒ I∇n, but we do not know if I∇n L∇n. We introduce a new scheme, the growth scheme Crγ, and we prove that L∇n ⇒ Cr∇n⇒ I∇n. Also, we analyse the utility of bounded collection axioms for the study of the above theories.

Mathematics Subject Classification: 03F30, 03H15.
An Intuitionistic Version of Cantor's Theorem
Authors: Maguolo Dario , Valentini Silvio
Published: May 2007

An intuitionistic version of Cantor's theorem, which shows that there is no surjective function from the type of the natural numbers N into the type N → N of the functions from N into N, is proved within Martin‐Löf's Intuitionistic Type Theory with the universe of the small types.

Mathematics Subject Classification: 03B15, 03B20.
Recursive Structures and Ershov's Hierarchy
Authors: Ash Christopher J. , Knight Julia F.
Published: May 2007

Ash and Nerode [2] gave natural definability conditions under which a relation is intrinsically r. e. Here we generalize this to arbitrary levels in Ershov's hierarchy of Δ sets, giving conditions under which a relation is intrinsically α‐r. e.

Mathematics Subject Classification: 03C57, 03D55.
Yosida Type Representation for Perfect MV‐Algebras
Authors: Belluce Lawrence P. , Nola Antonio Di
Published: May 2007

In [9] Mundici introduced a categorical equivalence Γ between the category of MV‐algebras and the category of abelian 𝓁‐groups with strong unit. Using Mundici's functor Γ, in [8] the authors established an equivalence between the category of perfect MV‐algebras and the category of abelian 𝓁‐groups. Aim of the present paper is to use the above functors to provide Yosida like representations (see [4]) of a large class of MV‐algebras.

Mathematics Subject Classification: 03G20, 03B50, 06D30, 06F20.
Effective Nonrecursiveness
Authors: Yamaguchi Takeshi
Published: May 2007

Productive sets are sets which are “effectively non recursively enumerable”. In the same spirit, we introduce a notion of “effectively nonrecursive sets” and prove an effective version of Post's theorem. We also show that a set is recursively enumerable and effectively nonrecursive in our sense if and only if it is effectively nonrecursive in the sense of Odifreddi [1].
Minimal Axiomatization in Modal Logic
Authors: Bellissima Fabio , Cittadini Saverio
Published: May 2007

We consider the problem of finding, in the ambit of modal logic, a minimal characterization for finite Kripke frames, i.e., a formula which, given a frame, axiomatizes its theory employing the lowest possible number of variables and implies the other axiomatizations. We show that every finite transitive frame admits a minimal characterization over K4, and that this result can not be extended to K.
On Series of Ordinals and Combinatorics
Authors: Jones James P. , Levitz Hilbert , Nichols Warren D.
Published: May 2007

This paper deals mainly with generalizations of results in finitary combinatorics to infinite ordinals. It is well‐known that for finite ordinals ∑bT<αβ is the number of 2‐element subsets of an α‐element set. It is shown here that for any well‐ordered set of arbitrary infinite order type α, ∑bT<αβ is the ordinal of the set M of 2‐element subsets, where M is ordered in some natural way. The result is then extended to evaluating the ordinal of the set of all n‐element subsets for each natural number n ≥ 2. Moreover, series ∑β<αf(β) are investigated and evaluated, where α is a limit ordinal and the function f belongs to a certain class of functions containing polynomials with natural number coefficients. The tools developed for this result can be extended to cover all infinite α, but the case of finite α appears to be quite problematic.
Computation Models for Parameterized Complexity
Authors: Cesati Marco , Dilanni Miriam
Published: May 2007

A parameterized computational problem is a set of pairs (x,k), wherekis a distinguished item called “parameter”. FPT is the class of fixed‐parameter tractable problems: for any fixed value ofk, they are solvable in time bounded by a polynomial of degree α, where α is a constant not dependent on the parameter. In order to deal with parameterized intractability, Downey and Fellows have introduced a hierarchy of classes W[l] ⊆ W[2] ⊆ ⃛ containing likely intractable parameterized problems, and they have shown that such classes have many natural, complete languages. In this paper we analyze several variations of the halting problem for nondeterministic Turing machines with parameterized time, and we show that its parameterized complexity strongly depends on some resources like the number of tapes, head and internal states, and on the size of the alphabet. Notice that classical polynomial‐time complexity fails in distinguishing such features. As byproducts, we show that parameterized complexity is a useful tool for the study of the intrinsic power of some computational models, and we underline the different “computational powers” of some levels of the parameterized hierarchy.
Effective Structures
Authors: Soskova Alexandra A.
Published: May 2007

The connection between some special properties of the computable functions in an abstract structure and the existence of a recursive and semi‐recursive representation of the structure is studied. The considerations are based on the notion of computability on many‐sorted abstract structures.
Some Hierarchies of Primitive Recursive Functions on Term Algebras
Authors: Sprenger Klaus‐Hilmar
Published: May 2007

We compare two different Grzegorczyk hierarchies {Hnσ}n≥0 and {Lnσ}n≥1 on term algebras, which grow according to the height and length of terms, respectively. The solution of almost all inclusion problems among the Grzegorczyk classes and the (simultaneous) recursion number classes Rnσ and Snσ on term algebras shows {Hnσ}n≥0 to generalize Weihrauch's Grzegorczyk hierarchy on words {Enk}n≥0 to arbitrary term algebras. However, by regarding terms as words, {Lnσ}n≥1 turns out to be computationally equivalent to Weihrauch's hierarchy {Enσ}n≥0 on the whole. Especially, L2σ} is equivalent to polynomial time computability and contains several natural term algebra functions. This establishes a notion of feasible term algebra functions and predicates.
Directed Sets and Malitz‐Cauchy‐Completions
Authors: Hinnion Roland
Published: May 2007

This is a study of the set of the Malitz‐completions (which are a special case of Cauchy‐completions) of a given infinite first‐order structure, put in relation with properties of directed sets.
Incompleteness Results in Kripke Bundle Semantics
Authors: Nagaoka Kazuaki , Isoda Eiko
Published: May 2007

Kripke bundle and C‐set semantics are known as semantics which generalize standard Kripke semantics. In [4] and in [1, 2] it is shown that Kripke bundle and C‐set semantics are stronger than standard Kripke semantics. Also it is true that C‐set semantics for superintuitionistic logics is stronger than Kripke bundle semantics ([6]). Modal predicate logic Q‐S4.1 is not Kripke bundle complete ([3] ‐ it is also yielded as a corollary to Theorem 6.1(a) of the present paper). This is shown by using difference of Kripke bundle semantics and C‐set semantics. In this paper, by using the same idea we show that incompleteness results in Kripke bundle semantics which are extended versions of [2].
The Wave Equation with Computable Initial Data Whose Unique Solution Is Nowhere Computable
Authors: Pour‐El Marian B. , Zhong Ning
Published: May 2007

We give a rough statement of the main result. Let D be a compact subset of ℝ3× ℝ. The propagation u(x, y, z, t) of a wave can be noncomputable in any neighborhood of any point of D even though the initial conditions which determine the wave propagation uniquely are computable. A precise statement of the result appears below.
On Partial Classes Containig All Monotone and Zero‐Preserving Total Boolean Functions
Authors: Strauch Birger
Published: May 2007

We describe sets of partial Boolean functions being closed under the operations of superposition. For any class A of total functions we define the set 𝔐(A) consisting of all partial classes which contain precisely the functions of A as total functions. The cardinalities of such sets 𝔐(A) can be finite or infinite. We state some general results on 𝔐(A). In particular, we describe all 30 closed sets of partial Boolean functions which contain all monotone and zero‐preserving total Boolean functions.
Derivatives of Computable Functions
Authors: Zhong Ning
Published: May 2007

As is well known the derivative of a computable and C1 function may not be computable. For a computable and C∞ function f, the sequence {f(n)} of its derivatives may fail to be computable as a sequence, even though its derivative of any order is computable. In this paper we present a necessary and sufficient condition for the sequence {f(n)} of derivatives of a computable and C∞ function f to be computable. We also give a sharp regularity condition on an initial computable function f which insures the computability of its derivative f′.
On the Number of Elementary Submodels of an Unsuperstable Homogeneous Structure
Authors: Hyttinen Tapani , Shelah Saharon
Published: May 2007

We show that if M is a stable unsuperstable homogeneous structure, then for most κ ⩽ |M|, the number of elementary submodels of M of power κ is 2κ.
Rheological Investigations in Understanding Shear‐Enhanced Crystallization of Isotactic Poly(propylene)/Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotube Composites
Authors: Wang Ke , Tang Changyu , Zhao Ping , Yang Hong , Zhang Qin , Du Rongni , Fu Qiang
Published: May 2007

A novel experimental technique to follow the crystallization processes of poly(propylene)/MWCNT composites that experience a steady shear deformation using dynamic melt rheometry is described. The effects of heterogeneous nucleation, temperature, and preshear on the crystallization behaviors were determined. A quantitative evaluation of crystallization kinetics difference between quiescent and preshear conditions could be achieved. By combining rheology with POM, we demonstrate that two different crystallization processes account for the shear‐enhanced crystallization at low and high temperatures, respectively.

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Cooperation of Ha‐ras and Bcl‐2 during multistep skin carcinogenesis
Authors: Lee Sangjun , Chari Nikhil S. , Kim Hyung Woo , Wang Xuemei , Roop Dennis R. , Cho Song H. , DiGiovanni John , McDonnell Timothy J.
Published: May 2007

Nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the United States. Deregulation of bcl‐2 and ras family members is commonly observed in NMSC. It has been previously demonstrated that simultaneous bcl‐2 and Ha‐ras gene expression in keratinocytes results in disordered differentiation and resistance to cell death induced by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It was, therefore, interest to assess the extent of cooperation between bcl‐2 and Ha‐ras during multistep skin carcinogenesis. The keratin 1 promoter was used to generate HK1.ras and HK1.bcl‐2 transgenic mice, which were subsequently crossed to generate HK1.ras/bcl‐2 double transgenic mice. The apoptotic index (AI) following UV‐irradiation was significantly lower in HK1.bcl‐2 and HKI.ras/bcl‐2 epidermis compared to control littermates. Interestingly, the AI of HK1.ras/bcl‐2 mice was significantly lower than even HK1.bcl‐2 mice following UV‐irradiation. To investigate the interaction of these oncogenes in skin tumorigenesis, a two‐stage chemical carcinogenesis protocol was used to induce tumors. The individual contributions of Ha‐ras and bcl‐2 to papilloma latency, incidence, and growth rate in HK1.ras/bcl‐2 double transgenic mice was marginally additive. Papillomas arising in HK1.ras transgenic mice exhibited the highest rate of apoptosis whereas papillomas arising in the HK1.ras/bcl‐2 double transgenic mice exhibited rates of apoptosis that were significantly lower than papillomas arising in either control littermate or HK1.ras mice. Constitutive expression of either Ha‐ras or bcl‐2 exhibited similar rates of malignant tumor progression and they were not significantly different than control littermates. Importantly, when these two oncoproteins were coexpressed, a significant, and synergistic, increase in malignant transformation was observed. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The high‐risk benign tumor: Evidence from the two‐stage skin cancer model and relevance for human cancer
Authors: Glick Adam , Ryscavage Andrew , Perez‐Lorenzo Rolando , Hennings Henry , Yuspa Stuart , Darwiche Nadine
Published: May 2007

Benign tumors that form following chemical initiation and promotion in the mouse skin can be grouped into two classes. The majority of papillomas do not progress to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and these are designated as low‐risk or terminally benign papillomas. In contrast, a much smaller group forms the true precursor to the SCC, and these have a significantly higher frequency and rate of malignant conversion than the bulk of low‐risk papillomas. In standard two‐stage carcinogenesis studies both tumor types are present, but grossly indistinguishable. Here we describe properties and potential origins of high‐risk papillomas and discuss the relevance of this model for certain human cancers with defined premalignant states. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mild Parkinsonian signs: An overview of an emerging concept
Authors: Louis Elan D. , Bennett David A.
Published: May 2007

Mild Parkinsonian signs (MPS) include gait and balance changes, rigidity, bradykinesia, and tremor. MPS can occur commonly during the clinical examination of older people who do not have known neurological disease, with prevalence estimates for MPS as a whole ranging from 15% to 95%. MPS are generally progressive and they are coupled with functional difficulties, impaired gait and balance, and increased risks of mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and mortality. The mechanistic basis for these signs is unclear, but is likely to be multifactorial, with possible factors including an age‐associated decline in dopaminergic nigrostriatal activity, the early development of neurodegenerative (Lewy body or Alzheimer's type) pathologies in the basal ganglia, or the accumulation of vascular pathology in the brain. It would be valuable to identify those individuals with MPS who are at increased risk for the development of future Alzheimer's disease, full‐blown Parkinson's disease, or strokes, and to develop therapeutic strategies to intervene to lessen the likelihood of MPS‐related morbidity and mortality. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Neuropathological study 16 years after autologous adrenal medullary transplantation in a Parkinson's disease patient
Authors: Kompoliti Katie , Chu Yaping , Shannon Kathleen M. , Kordower Jeffrey H.
Published: May 2007

To date, there is no clinicopathological correlation of adrenal medullary transplant cases in patients with survival beyond a few years. Postmortem examination of a brain from a patient with Parkinson's disease (PD), 16 years after autologous adrenal medullary transplant, was performed using tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and chromogranin A. The patient experienced a four‐year initial improvement in motor function followed by resumption of the progressive nature of her disease that continued until her death. She expired 16 years following grafting. At autopsy, TH stain of the brain revealed severe loss of TH‐immunoreactivity in the substantia nigra and Lewy bodies, confirming the diagnosis of PD. The transplant site was identified by the presence of scarring and there was complete absence of any TH staining cells at the site of the transplant. There were few surviving cells staining with chromogranin A. The absence of TH‐staining cells in the transplant 16 years after surgery provides further evidence that adrenal medullary transplants do not survive in the long term. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Levodopa responsiveness in disorders with parkinsonism: A review of the literature
Authors: Constantinescu Radu , Richard Irene , Kurlan Roger
Published: May 2007

A literature review was conducted to investigate whether or not levodopa (LD) responsiveness (LR) is a useful criterion in the diagnosis of parkinsonian disorders. Although LR does appear to differ among the parkinsonian disorders, there is considerable confusion in the literature. While most patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) have a sustained benefit from LD, a small minority of patients with documented PD do not respond. The literature suggests that the LR rate is higher for multiple system atrophy (MSA), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and corticobasal degeneration (CBD) than based on published diagnostic criteria. Magnitude and duration of response to LD and tolerability (time course, type and distribution of dyskinesias, mental effects and motor worsening) may be useful features in distinguishing PD, MSA, PSP, and CBD. Efforts should be directed toward better defining LR when used for diagnostic purposes and in scientific publications. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Buck (Capra hircus) genes encode new members of the spermadhesin family
Authors: Melo Luciana Magalhães , Teixeira Dárcio Ítalo Alves , Havt Alexandre , da Cunha Rodrigo Maranguape Silva , Martins Danyelly Bruneska Gondim , Castelletti Carlos Henrique Madeiros , de Souza Paulo Roberto Eleutério , Filho José Luiz de Lima , Freitas Vicente José de Figueirêdo , Cavada Benildo Sousa , Rádis‐Baptista Gandhi
Published: May 2007

Spermadhesins are the major proteins of boar seminal plasma and form a group of polypeptides probably involved in reproduction. In previous work, a member of the spermadhesin family from buck seminal plasma, called BSFP, was characterized by mass spectrometry and N‐terminal sequencing. The present study aimed to clone and characterize the BSFP gene and investigate its expression along the genital tract using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The cDNAs of the seminal vesicle, testis, epididymis, bulbourethral gland, and ductus deferens were prepared from a buck. Following 3′‐ and 5′‐end amplifications using seminal vesicle cDNA, we cloned and sequenced four highly similar (97–98%) nucleotide sequences encoding spermadhesins, which were named Bodhesin‐1(Bdh‐1), Bdh‐2, Bdh‐3, and Bdh‐4. All deduced amino acid sequences contained the CUB domain signature and were 49–52% similar to boar AWN. Among the four Bdh amino acid sequences, Bdh‐2 was the most similar to the BSFP N‐terminal fragment. By using real‐time PCR, it was verified specific amplifications for all Bdh in the seminal vesicle, testis, epididymis, and bulbourethral gland, with the exception of Bdh‐2 in epididymis. The amplicons had a melting temperature and size of approximately 78°C and 130 bp, respectively. Bdh expression was higher in the seminal vesicle when compared to the other tissues. The present work confirms that goat is the fifth mammalian species, after pig, cattle, horse, and sheep, in which spermadhesin molecules are found. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on buck spermadhesin genes using molecular cloning and expression profile. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 8–16, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A pilot study of the Video Observations Aarts and Aarts (VOAA): a new software program to measure motor behaviour in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Aarts Pauline BM , Jongerius Peter H , Aarts Michel AG , Van Hartingsveldt Margo J , Anderson Patricia G , Beumer Annechien
Published: May 2007

A new computer software program to score video observations, Video Observations Aarts and Aarts (VOAA) was developed to evaluate paediatric occupational therapy interventions. The VOAA is an observation tool that assesses the frequency, duration and quality of arm/hand use in children, in particular those with cerebral palsy. Reliability studies show that the first module, designed to evaluate a forced‐use programme, has an excellent content validity index (0.93) and good intra‐ and inter‐observer reliability (Cohen's kappas ranging from 0.62 to 0.85 for the three activities tested). With the built‐in statistical package, paediatric occupational therapy departments can conduct therapeutic evaluations with children with impairments in the upper extremities. Further research is recommended to apply the VOAA in clinical studies in paediatric occupational therapy. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Liposomal amphotericin B prophylaxis of invasive mold infections in children post allogeneic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Roman Elizabeth , Osunkwo Ifeyinwa , Militano Olga , Cooney Erin , van de Ven Carmella , Cairo Mitchell S.
Published: May 2007

Background

Invasive mold infections (IMI) are a leading cause of infectious mortality in allogeneic stem cell transplant (AlloSCT) recipients. Fluconazole, the current standard for fungal prophylaxis, is ineffective against molds. We initiated a pilot study to determine the safety and activity of prophylactic liposomal amphotericin B (AMB) in preventing IMI in pediatric and adolescent AlloSCT recipients during the first 100 days.

Procedure

Fifty‐one patients (57 AlloSCT) were given AMB (3 mg/kg/day) intravenously, day 0–100. Median age 6 years, 32 males, 19 females. Donors: 33 unrelated and 2 related cord blood, 13 related and 1 unrelated peripheral blood stem cell and 8 related bone marrow (BM); 30 received myeloablative and 27 reduced intensity conditioning. Graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis comprised tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil.

Results

Median follow‐up is 557 days. AMB was generally well tolerated. The probability of developing ≥grade II acute GVHD and extensive chronic GVHD was 45% and 7%, respectively. Estimated 1‐year OS is 62.4% for all patients with 78.8% and 26.7% for average‐risk and poor‐risk, respectively. The incidence of IMI was 0%.

Conclusions

These results suggest prophylactic AMB is tolerable and may prevent IMI, especially Aspergillus, during the first 100 days post AlloSCT in pediatric and adolescent patients. A randomized study is needed to determine the efficacy of this approach. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:325–330. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sperm Banking for Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Patients: Sperm Quality, Patient, and Parent Perspectives
Authors: Ginsberg Jill P. , Ogle Susan K. , Tuchman Lisa K. , Carlson Claire A. , Reilly Maureen M. , Hobbie Wendy L. , Rourke Mary , Zhao Huaqing , Meadows Anna T.
Published: May 2007

Background

Infertility is often a complication for adolescent and young adult males who receive cancer therapy, a problem that might be averted through using cryopreserved sperm. We aim to evaluate feasibility of offering newly diagnosed patients the opportunity to bank sperm and, to determine the beliefs and decision‐making processes of patients and their parents who considered sperm banking.

Procedure

Eligible patients and parents were approached and offered sperm cryopreservation. Semen samples from patients who sequentially attempted sperm banking were analyzed. Questionnaires were then administered to patients and parents who had been approached about sperm banking.

Results

Semen samples from 68 patients were analyzed. Nine patients were azoospermic; all had been pre‐treated with chemotherapy. Fifty patients completed the questionnaire. Parent and patient made the decision together to bank 80% of the time. All sons who attempted to bank and their parents felt they had made the right decision, including those who attempted but failed.

Conclusions

Viable sperm can be collected successfully from adolescent and young adults who are newly diagnosed with cancer. Semen quality was dramatically reduced by one course of gonadotoxic therapy. Parents and patients want information regarding sperm cryopreservation early. Parents appear to play an important role in the decision to sperm bank. We recommend sperm banking be offered to all eligible patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:594–598. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical implication of isolated right dominant heart in the fetus
Authors: Jung Eui , Won Hye‐Sung , Lee Pil Ryang , Kim Ahm , Park In‐Sook
Published: May 2007

Objective

To evaluate the clinical implication of isolated right dominant heart (RDH) in fetal echocardiography.

Study design

We reviewed the medical records of pregnant women diagnosed with fetal RDH at Asan Medical Center from December 1999 to December 2005. The criteria of RDH were the ratio of right‐to‐left atrial and ventricular width and the ratio of the diameter of pulmonary artery‐to‐aorta were greater than 1.5. Fetuses with congenital heart disease, including coarctation of the aorta (CoA), noncardiac anomalies or chromosomal abnormalities were excluded.

Results

RDH was identified in 44 fetuses. Twenty‐nine (66%) were confirmed to have normal heart and 15 (34%) had cardiac anomalies by postnatal echocardiogrphy; 11 CoA, 1 interruption of aortic arch, 1 patent ductus arteriosus, and 2 ventricular septal defect. Mean gestational age at presentation with RDH was later in normal fetuses as compared to fetuses with CoA (p < 0.005). Only 26% (4/15) of fetuses presenting with RDH during the second‐trimester were found to have normal heart postnatally, compared with 86% (25/29) of those diagnosed in the third‐trimester.

Conclusion

RDH in the fetus is a risk factor for postnatal CoA particularly when diagnosed in the second‐trimester, and should be an indication for neonatal echocardiography. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel method to prepare zinc hydroxystannate‐coated inorganic fillers and its effect on the fire properties of PVC cable materials
Authors: Yang Ling , Hu Yuan , You Fei , Chen Zuyao
Published: May 2007

Fire‐retardant (FR) properties, including limiting oxygen index, peak rate of heat release, and smoke parameter have been measured and compared for unfilled and filled polyvinyl‐chloride (PVC)‐based cable formulations, containing 15 wt% amounts of uncoated and zinc‐hydroxystannate (ZHS)‐coated magnesium hydroxide (MH) and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) fillers at the same addition level. Of the uncoated fillers, MH was more effective at lowering flammability than CaCO3. When the ZHS coating was applied to MH and CaCO3, CaCO3 became the most effective additive at lowering PVC flammability and smoke output. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 47:1163–1169, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Duration of treatment effect after tobramycin solution for inhalation in young children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Gibson Ronald L. , Emerson Julia , Mayer‐Hamblett Nicole , Burns Jane L. , McNamara Sharon , Accurso Frank J. , Konstan Michael W. , Chatfield Barbara A. , Retsch‐Bogart George , Waltz David A. , Acton James , Zeitlin Pamela , Hiatt Peter , Moss Richard , Williams Judy , Ramsey Bonnie W.
Published: May 2007

Rationale

Among young children with cystic fibrosis (CF), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) airway infection is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Early intervention strategies include tobramycin solution for inhalation (TSI), which can eradicate lower airway Pa from cultures obtained at the end of 28 days of treatment in young children.

Methods

We conducted an open label, sequential cohort study of TSI in young children with CF to investigate duration of antimicrobial treatment effect. The primary outcome was lower airway Pa eradication per bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid culture. Sequential treatment cohorts varied by duration of treatment (28 or 56 days) and timing of follow‐up BAL (at Days 56, 84, or 112). Subjects (N = 36) were treated with TSI, 300 mg twice daily, for 28 days or 56 days per cohort assignment.

Results

Among 31 evaluable subjects, culture based, lower airway Pa eradication was observed in the majority of subjects for up to 1–3 months following TSI treatment: 75% in Cohort 28/56 (days of treatment/day of follow‐up BAL), 63% in Cohort 28/84, 82% in Cohort 56/112, and 75% in Cohort 28/112. Non‐mucoid Pa at baseline and/or exotoxin A seronegativity were associated with higher rates of eradication. There was a less pronounced effect of TSI treatment on Pa eradication from oropharyngeal cultures in all cohorts. TSI treatment was associated with reduced neutrophilic airway inflammation and was not related to any serious adverse events.

Conclusion

TSI monotherapy is safe and can eradicate lower airway Pa for up to 3 months after treatment in young children with CF. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2007; 42:610–623. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss. Inc.
β‐strand recombination in tricalbin evolution and the origin of synaptotagmin‐like C2 domains
Authors: Jiménez José L. , Davletov Bazbek
Published: May 2007

Two protein families involved in membrane traffic, tricalbins and synaptotagmins, contain several copies of C2 domains and are related based on their sequence and domain architecture. Paradoxically, tricalbin and synaptotagmin C2 domains belong to different structural types with apparent circular permutation of terminal β‐strands. To understand whether a topological switch took place, we analyzed tricalbin and synaptotagmin‐like C2 domains using two‐dimensional structural analysis. We found that yeast tricalbins contain five to six C2 domains. One of these C2 domains possesses many features of synaptotagmin‐like C2 domains and also carries a conserved C‐terminal strand that is similar to its structural equivalent in synaptotagmin‐like C2 domains, suggesting a structural permutation event. Indeed, among higher eukaryotes, animal tricalbins have evolved a C2 domain with synaptotagmin‐like topology indicating that the structural conversion has taken place. Investigation of plant synaptotagmins, however, proves that they are direct tricalbin orthologs. Our analysis shows that β‐strand recombination is a possible evolutionary mechanism to generate new structural topologies with altered functional properties. Proteins 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nuclear orbital plus molecular orbital theory: Simultaneous determination of nuclear and electronic wave functions without Born–Oppenheimer approximation
Authors: Nakai Hiromi
Published: May 2007

We review a recent development in a rigorous non‐Born–Oppenheimer method, i.e., nuclear orbital plus molecular orbital (NOMO) method, which determines the nuclear and electronic wave functions simultaneously. The NOMO theory is an exact theory for the non‐BO problem in principle; for example, full‐configuration interaction formulation for a complete configuration space. Hartree–Fock (HF) equations for NOs and MOs are derived for practical calculations. The usage of Gaussian basis functions for NOs is discussed. We formulate the elimination of translational and rotational contaminations in the NOMO method. Further, many‐body effect such as nucleus–nucleus (n–n), nucleus–electron (n–e), and electron–electron (e–e) correlations are investigated by applying the second‐order Møller–Plesset perturbation theory to the NOMO method. The excited‐state theories such as configuration interaction and generator coordinate methods are examined to describe not only electronic but also vibrational excited states. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Hydrological impacts affecting endangered fish species: a Spanish case study
Authors: Sánchez Navarro Rafael , Stewardson Michael , Breil Pascal , de Jalón Diego García , Eisele Michael
Published: May 2007

The Júcar River Basin (Spain) harbours endemic aquatic species that are declining or going extinct at an alarming rate. After evaluating several possible stressors, flow modification is identified as the factor critically threatening one endemic cyprinid fish species Chondrostoma arrigonis. Physical habitat for this species is compared for river reaches with different flow modification histories to understand local extinctions across this species' historical range. Time‐series of physical habitat, generated using PHABSIM, indicate a dramatic reduction in habitat area with flow modification. Our findings indicate that efforts to regulate and stabilize flows in the Júcar River Basin may cause the rapid extinction of the remaining populations. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymptotic Joint Normality of Outdegrees of Nodes in Random Recursive Trees
Authors: Mahmoud Hosam M. , Smythe R. T.
Published: May 2007

We study the joint probability distribution of the number of nodes of outdegree 0, 1, and 2 in a random recursive tree. We complete the known partial list of exact means and variances for outdegrees up to two by obtaining exact combinatorial expressions for the remaining means, variances, and covariances. The joint probability distribution of the number of nodes of outdegree 0, 1, and 2 is shown to be asymptotically trivariate normal and the asymptotic covariance structure is explicitly determined. It is also shown how to extend the results (at least in principle) to obtain a limiting multivariate normal distribution for nodes of outdegree 0, 1, …, k.
Large Cliques Elude the Metropolis Process
Authors: Jerrum Mark
Published: May 2007

In a random graph on n vertices, the maximum clique is likely to be of size very close to 2 lg n. However, the clique produced by applying the naive “greedy” heuristic to a random graph is unlikely to have size much exceeding lg n. The factor of two separating these estimates motivates the search for more effective heuristics. This article analyzes a heuristic search strategy, the Metropolis process, which is just one step above the greedy one in its level of sophistication. It is shown that the Metropolis process takes super‐polynomial time to locate a clique that is only slightly bigger than that produced by the greedy heuristic.
Enumeration of Almost‐Convex Polygons on the Square Lattice
Authors: Enting I. G. , Guttmann A. J. , Richmond L. B. , Wormald N. C.
Published: May 2007

We classify self‐avoiding polygons on the square lattice according to a concavity measure, m, where 2m is the difference between the number of steps in the polygon and the perimeter of the minimal rectangle bounding the polygon. We generate series expansions for the perimeter generating functions Sm(x) for polygons of concavity m. We analyze the series Sm(x) for m = 0 to 3. If Nm,n denotes the number of polygons of perimeter 2n and concavity m, with m = o(n1/2), we prove that Nm,n ˜ 22n−m−7nm+1/m!, and that the radius of convergence of the series counting all polygons with m = o(n) is equal to 1/4. Our numerical data leads us to conjecture that in fact

magnified image for m = o(n1/2), a result confirmed for m = 0 and 1.
Randomized adaptive sorting
Authors: Estivill‐Castro Vladimir , Wood Derick
Published: May 2007

Our goal is to design practical sorting algorithms that require time proportional not only to the size of the input but also to the disorder in the input. Such sorting algorithms are said to be adaptive. We introduce randomization to achieve this goal; the first time randomization has used to obtain adaptive sorting algorithms. We investigate three randomized algorithms.

Randomized Merge Sort, which is expected Runs‐optimal;

Randomized Quicksort, which is Exchange‐sensitive, that is, it takes Θ(|X|[1+log(Exc(X)+1)]) time in the expected case; and

Skip Sort, whichh is Inversions‐, Runs‐, and Exchhange‐optimal.

The three sorting algorithms are simple and practical, in contrast to previous adaptive sorting algorithms that used complex data structures. Moreover, previous claims about the performance of adaptive variants of Quicksort were baed only on simulation results,; our claims are based on a formal analysis. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons. Inc.
Disjoint systems
Authors: Alon Noga , Sudakov Benny
Published: May 2007

A disjoint system of type (∀, ∃, k, n) is a collection 𝒞 = {𝒜1,…, 𝒜m} of pairwise disjoint families of k‐subsets of an n‐element set satisfying the following condition. For every ordered pair 𝒜i and 𝒜j of distinct members of 𝒞 and for every A ϵ 𝒜i there exists a B ϵ 𝒜j that does not intersect A. Let Dn (∀, ∃, k) denote the maximum possible cardinality of a disjoint system of type (∀, ∃, k, n). It is shown that for every fixed k ⩾ 2,.magnified imageThis settles a problem of Ahlswede, Cai, and Zhang. Several related problems are considered as well.
On the 2‐cyclic property in 2‐regular digraphs
Authors: Cooper Colin
Published: May 2007

A digraph D is said to be k‐cyclic if every k vertices of D lie in some directed cycle of D. We show that almost every 2‐regular digraph is 2‐cyclic.
Bounding Ramsey numbers through large deviation inequalities
Authors: Krivelevich Michael
Published: May 2007

We develop a new approach for proving lower bounds for various Ramsey numbers, based on using large deviation inequalities. This approach enables us to obtain the bounds for the off‐diagonal Ramsey numbers R(Kr, Kk), r ≤ k, that match the best known bounds, obtained through the local lemma. We discuss also the bounds for a related Ramsey‐type problem and show, for example, that there exists a K4‐free graph G on n vertices in which every cn3/5 log1/2 n vertices span a copy of K3. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Situationally embodied curriculum: Relating formalisms and contexts
Authors: Barab Sasha , Zuiker Steve , Warren Scott , Hickey Dan , Ingram‐Goble Adam , Kwon Eun‐Ju , Kouper Inna , Herring Susan C.
Published: May 2007

This study describes an example of design‐based research in which we make theoretical improvements in our understanding, in part based on empirical work, and use these to revise our curriculum and, simultaneously, our evolving theory of the relations between contexts and disciplinary formalisms. Prior to this study, we completed a first cycle of design revisions to a game‐based ecological sciences curriculum to make more apparent specific domain concepts associated with targeted learning standards. Of particular interest was using gaming principles to embed standards‐based science concepts in the curricular experience without undermining the situative embodiment central to our design philosophy. In Study One reported here, the same first‐cycle elementary teacher used the refined second‐cycle curriculum, again with high‐ability fourth graders. We then analyzed qualitative and quantitative data on student participation and performance to further refine our theory and revise the curriculum. In Study Two, another teacher implemented a further refined second‐cycle curriculum with lower achieving fourth graders, including several students labeled as having special needs. We use the design trajectory and results to illustrate and warrant the creation of a situationally embodied curriculum that supports the learning of specific disciplinary formalisms. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed, 91:750–782, 2007