bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diminished pregnancy rates in endometriosis due to impaired uterotubal transport assessed by hysterosalpingoscintigraphy
Authors: Kissler S. , Hamscho N. , Zangos S. , Gätje R. , Müller A. , Rody A. , Döbert N. , Menzel C. , Grünwald F. , Siebzehnrübl E. , Kaufmann M.
Published: September 2005

Objective  To investigate uterotubal transport by means of hysterosalpingoscintigraphy (HSSG) in women with and without endometriosis.

Design  A prospective observational study.

Setting  University Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecologic Endocrinology with 350 in vitro fertilisation (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles and 400 intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles/year.

Population  Cases included 56 infertile women with laparoscopic proven endometriosis and patent fallopian tubes. Twenty‐two women with partners suffering from male factor infertility served as controls.

Methods  A diagnostic cycle incorporating HSSG was performed. Subsequently, patients underwent either four cycles of timed intercourse (TI) or IUI in order to achieve pregnancy. If pregnancy did not occur, IVF or ICSI was performed.

Main outcome measures  Evaluation of uterotubal transport capacity in women with endometriosis and healthy controls.

Results  Patients suffering from endometriosis (group I) showed a significant reduction in physiologic uterotubal transport function: While 20 patients (36%) had ipsi‐ or bilateral uterotubal transport, there was pathological uterotubal transport contralateral to the dominant follicle or a complete failure of transport capacity (negative HSSG) in 36 patients (64%). In the controls (group II), transport function was significantly different: 15 of 22 patients (68%) revealed ipsi‐ and bilateral tubal demonstration, while 5 patients (22%) showed contralateral transport and 2 patients (10%) showed negative HSSG (P= 0.01). Twenty‐three pregnancies were observed (pregnancy rate: 29%). Eleven out of 14 (79%) women with ipsi‐ or bilateral tubal transport function fell pregnant by means of TI or IUI. In seven of nine patients (78%) with a failure in tubal transport, pregnancy was achieved by IVF/ICSI, despite acceptable semen parameters (P= 0.01).

Conclusions  Endometriosis is significantly associated with a reduction in physiologic uterotubal transport capacity compared with controls. This resulted in diminished pregnancy rates even in women with normozoospermic partners. Therefore, IVF/ICSI may be required even when fallopian tubes are patent or semen quality is normal.
Laterality in five‐year‐olds conceived by intracytoplasmic sperm injection, standard in vitro fertilisation and natural conception: a European study
Authors: Sutcliffe A.G. , Barnes J. , Wennerholm U.‐B. , Loft A. , Tarlatzis B.C. , Ponjaert‐Kristoferson I. , Bonduelle M.
Published: September 2005

Objective  To assess laterality in a group of European children conceived with the help of assisted reproductive therapy, or naturally conceived.

Design  Prospective cohort study.

Setting  Five European countries.

Population  A total of 1525 five‐year‐old children divided into three groups according to conception status: naturally conceived; intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI); in vitro fertilisation (IVF) group.

Methods  All children were assessed using the McCarthy Scale of Children's Abilities (Motor Scale) with additional items using a comb, a spoon and an indirect measure was made of the parental handedness scores, using a questionnaire.

Main outcome measures  Child handedness for drawing and writing.

Results  Observed handedness did not differ significantly between natural conception, IVF and ICSI in girls or boys, except for ICSI‐conceived girls, fewer of whom were left‐handed than the naturally conceived controls, 7.0%versus 12.4% (P < 0.05), however, this was close to the population norm of 8%. The degree of parental handedness did not significantly vary in the three groups.

Conclusions  Laterality, as assessed by handedness, may be marginally less common in girls conceived with assisted reproductive therapies than with children conceived naturally.
The Release Trial: a randomised controlled trial of umbilical vein oxytocin versus placebo for the treatment of retained placenta
Authors: Weeks Andrew , Mirembe Florence , Alfirevic Zarko
Published: September 2005

Hypothesis  Intraumbilical injection of oxytocin reduces the incidence of manual removal compared with placebo in the treatment of retained placenta.

Entry criteria  The women recruited will be stable haemodynamically, not bleeding vaginally, over 34 weeks of gestation and with a retained placenta for at least 30 minutes.

Treatment arms  Oxytocin (50 IU) or sterile water (in identical vials) in 25 mL saline injected through an intraumbilical venous catheter.

Sample size  Five hundred seventy‐two women.

Primary endpoint  Need for manual removal of placenta.

Centres  Initially, there will be two study sites in the UK (Liverpool and Sheffield) and five in Uganda (Mulago, Nsambia, Mengo, Rubaga and Arua).

Funding  World Health Organization and WellBeing of Women.
Selective feticide in complicated monochorionic twin pregnancies using ultrasound‐guided bipolar cord coagulation
Authors: Robyr Romaine , Yamamoto Masami , Ville Yves
Published: September 2005

Objective  To review our experience with selective feticide in complicated monochorionic (MC) twin pregnancies, using ultrasound‐guided cord coagulation with a bipolar forceps.

Design  Retrospective analysis.

Setting  All consecutive umbilical cord coagulations performed at our institution in the second trimester of pregnancy between November 1999 and 2003.

Population  Consecutive cases of complicated MC pregnancies with an indication for selective termination.

Methods  Ultrasound‐guided coagulation of the umbilical cord with a 2.5‐mm bipolar forceps under local anaesthesia.

Main outcome measures  Indications, gestational age at the procedure, perinatal outcome and neonatal follow up.

Results  Forty‐six patients with MC twin pregnancies underwent this procedure. Indications included twin reverse arterial perfusion sequence (n= 17), severe malformation in one twin (n= 7) and agonal presentation or cerebral anomalies of one twin in twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) after laser treatment or serial amniodrainage (n= 22). The procedure resulted in six intrauterine fetal demise (IUFD, 13%), with a rate of 41% and 3% when performed at 16–17 weeks or later, respectively (Fisher P= 0.002). Preterm rupture of the membranes (PROM) before 28 weeks and between 28 and 34 weeks occurred in 9% and 14% of the cases, respectively. All neonatal deaths (four) occurred in cases with PROM at 28 weeks or earlier. Paediatric follow up showed that all infants discharged alive but one were neurologically normal at 3–42 months, which corresponds to 70% of the 46 cases.

Conclusions  This technique is effective when the natural history is likely to severely affect the development of the normal co‐twin. The overall intact survival rate was 70% and our results support justification of later surgery. Prematurity remains a significant complication of the procedure.
The temperature dependence and involvement of mitochondria permeability transition and caspase activation in damage to organotypic hippocampal slices following in vitro ischemia
Authors: Rytter Anna , Cardoso Carla M. P. , Johansson Petra , Cronberg Tobias , Hansson Magnus J. , Mattiasson Gustav , Elmér Eskil , Wieloch Tadeusz
Published: September 2005

The aggravating effect of hyperglycemia on ischemic brain injury can be mimicked in a model of in vitro ischemia (IVI) using murine hippocampal slice cultures. Using this model, we found that the damage in the CA1 region following IVI in the absence or presence of 40 mm glucose (hyperglycemia) is highly temperature dependent. Decreasing the temperature from 35 to 31°C during IVI prevented cell death, whereas increasing the temperature by 2°C markedly aggravated damage. As blockade of the mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) is equally effective as hypothermia in preventing ischemic cell death in vivo, we investigated whether inhibition of MPT or of caspases was protective following IVI. In the absence of glucose, the MPT blockers cyclosporin A and MeIle4‐CsA but not the immunosuppressive compound FK506 diminished cell death. In contrast, following hyperglycemic IVI, MPT blockade was ineffective. Also, the pan‐caspase inhibitor Boc‐Asp(OMe)fluoromethyl ketone did not decrease cell death in the CA1 region following IVI or hyperglycemic IVI. We conclude that cell death in the CA1 region of organotypic murine hippocampal slices following IVI is highly temperature dependent and involves MPT. In contrast, cell death following hyperglycemic IVI, although completely prevented by hypothermia, is not mediated by mechanisms that involve MPT or caspase activation.
Inflammatory neurodegeneration induced by lipoteichoic acid from Staphylococcus aureus is mediated by glia activation, nitrosative and oxidative stress, and caspase activation
Authors: Kinsner Agnieszka , Pilotto Valentina , Deininger Susanne , Brown Guy C. , Coecke Sandra , Hartung Thomas , Bal‐Price Anna
Published: September 2005

In this study we investigated the mechanisms of neuronal cell death induced by lipoteichoic acid (LTA) and muramyl dipeptide (MDP) from Gram‐positive bacterial cell walls using primary cultures of rat cerebellum granule cells (CGCs) and rat cortical glial cells (astrocytes and microglia). LTA (± MDP) from Staphylococcus aureus induced a strong inflammatory response of both types of glial cells (release of interleukin‐1β, tumour necrosis factor‐α and nitric oxide). The death of CGCs was caused by activated glia because in the absence of glia (treatment with 7.5 µm cytosine‐d‐arabinoside to inhibit non‐neuronal cell proliferation) LTA + MDP did not cause significant cell death (less than 20%). In addition, staining with rhodamine‐labelled LTA confirmed that LTA was bound only to microglia and astrocytes (not neurones). Neuronal cell death induced by LTA (± MDP)‐activated glia was partially blocked by an inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibitor (1400 W; 100 µm), and completely blocked by a superoxide dismutase mimetic [manganese (III) tetrakis (4‐benzoic acid)porphyrin chloride; 50 µm] and a peroxynitrite scavenger [5,10,15,20‐tetrakis (4‐sulfonatophenyl) porphyrinato iron (III); 100 µm] suggesting that nitric oxide and peroxynitrite contributed to LTA‐induced cell death. Moreover, neuronal cell death was inhibited by selective inhibitors of caspase‐3 (z‐DEVD‐fmk; 50 µm) and caspase‐8 (z‐Ile‐Glu(O‐Me)‐Thr‐Asp(O‐Me) fluoromethyl ketone; 50 µm) indicating that they were involved in LTA‐induced neuronal cell death.
Variance and Uncertainty in the Expected Number of Occurrences in Reserve Selection
Authors: MOILANEN ATTE , CABEZA MAR
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  Reserve selection often concerns the design of reserve networks for the long‐term maintenance of biodiversity. We considered uncertainty in the context of three common reserve‐selection formulations, the expected number of populations, proportional coverage of land‐cover types, and the probability of having at least one population. By uncertainty, we mean variance in the outcome of any probability‐based reserve selection formulation. A typical reserve‐selection formulation might ask for the least expensive set of sites that contains n populations per species. It is implicit here that this requirement concerns the expected number of populations, which actually is obtained only with a 50% chance. If the requirement is changed to select the least expensive set of sites that gives n populations per species with a 95% probability, the number of sites required in the solution increases and the identity of the sites is changed toward sites that have high probabilities of persistence (or occurrence) and low associated binomial variance. Anthropogenic threat is one factor that may cause probabilistic uncertainty in the context of proportional area coverage.
Effect of Habitat Deterioration on Population Dynamics and Extinction Risks in a Previously Common Perennial
Authors: BRYS REIN , JACQUEMYN HANS , ENDELS PATRICK , DE BLUST GEERT , HERMY MARTIN
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  Habitat deterioration affects population viability and persistence of both plant and animal species. For plants the effect of changes in environmental conditions on population dynamics and extinction risks largely depends on the life span of the species. We used transition matrix models, a life‐table response experiment, and stochastic simulations to investigate the overall effects of nitrogen enrichment (9, 6, 3, and 0 g N/m2/year) and grassland management (mowing and grazing) on vital rates, population growth rate (λ), and extinction risks of a previously common perennial herb ( Primula veris [L.]). We experimentally manipulated 32 permanent plots that were monitored during a 5‐year period. To study the effects of nitrogen addition and management on recruitment in more detail and to evaluate the role of seed availability, we experimentally sowed seeds at different densities. Nitrogen addition always resulted in negative population growth rates (range: 0.998 to 0.700), whereas mean population growth rates in the control situation were >1. Interaction effects indicated that the negative effect of increasing nitrogen addition decreased population growth rate more strongly when the vegetation was mown compared with grazing. Besides significantly increased mortality rates, especially in the youngest life stages, decreased population growth rates under nitrogen enrichment were mainly the result of reduced flowering probabilities, seed production rates per plant, recruitment, and establishment of seedlings. Mowing, however, encouraged growth of vegetative adults into a flowering stage and decreased germination and seedling establishment, whereas the reverse was observed under grazing. Under the highest nitrogen levels, mean times to extinction were much shorter than would be expected based on the longevity of the species, especially under mowing. These results demonstrate that even long‐lived and formerly common perennial species may quickly respond to habitat deterioration, especially when the deterioration takes place over a short period of time.
The Novel and Endemic Pathogen Hypotheses: Competing Explanations for the Origin of Emerging Infectious Diseases of Wildlife
Authors: RACHOWICZ LARA J. , HERO JEAN‐MARC , ALFORD ROSS A. , TAYLOR JOHN W. , MORGAN JESS A.T. , VREDENBURG VANCE T. , COLLINS JAMES P. , BRIGGS CHERYL J.
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  Chytridiomycosis, caused by the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, is an emerging infectious disease implicated in declines of amphibian populations around the globe. An emerging infectious disease is one that has recently been discovered; has recently increased in incidence, geography, or host range; or is newly evolved. For any given outbreak of an emerging disease, it is therefore possible to state two hypotheses regarding its origin. The novel pathogen hypothesis states that the disease has recently spread into new geographic areas, whereas the endemic pathogen hypothesis suggests that it has been present in the environment but recently has increased in host range or pathogenicity. Distinguishing between these hypotheses is important, because the conservation measures needed to slow or stop the spread of a novel pathogen are likely to differ from those needed to prevent outbreaks of an endemic pathogen. Population genetics may help discriminate among the possible origins of an emerging disease. Current evidence suggests chytridiomycosis may be a novel pathogen being spread worldwide by carriers; until we know how much genetic variation to expect in an endemic strain, however, we cannot yet conclude that B. dendrobatidis is a novel pathogen.
Program Report: GENECOUNTING Support Programs
Authors: Curtis D. , Knight J. , Sham P. C.
Published: September 2005

We describe a suite of programs which enhance the usability of GENECOUNTING, a program for estimating haplotype frequencies in unrelated subjects. The programs, called RUNGC, SCANASSOC, COMPGR, SCANGROUP and LDPAIRS, carry out likelihood ratio tests and permutation tests to detect differences in haplotype frequencies between cases and controls,or between predefined groups, and output likely haplotype assignments and tables of linkage disequilibrium statistics between all pairs of markers in a dataset.
Age of First Faint in Patients with Vasovagal Syncope
Authors: SHELDON ROBERT S. , SHELDON AARON G. , CONNOLLY STUART J. , MORILLO CARLOS A. , KLINGENHEBEN THOMAS , KRAHN ANDREW D. , KOSHMAN MARY‐LOU , RITCHIE DEBBIE ,   for the Investigators of the Syncope Symptom Study and the Prevention of Syncope Trial
Published: September 2005

Introduction: Understanding whether vasovagal syncope is a lifelong disorder might shed insight into its physiology and affect management strategies. Accordingly, we determined the age of the first syncopal spell in adult patients who sought care for syncope.

Methods and Results: Patients were 42 ± 18 years old with 64% women. They had had a median 8 syncope spells (interquartile range [IQR]: 4, 20) with a median frequency of 1.0 syncopal spells per year. The range of syncopal spells was 1–3,375, and the range of duration of history of syncope was 0.003–70 years. The first syncopal spell occurred at ages 0–81 in a skewed distribution, with a marked mode age of 13 years, a median age of 18 years (IQR 12, 37), and a mean age of 26 ± 20 years. The distributions were statistically indistinguishable across countries (P = 0.50), among Canadian regions (P = 0.69), and between the studies (P = 0.49). The same modal values were seen in males and females, and in patients <40 and ≥40 years old. However, patients ≥40 years had median ages of onset older than patients <40 years (36 ± 23 vs 17 ± 8 years). Patients had a recalled history of syncopal spells of median duration of 10 years (IQR: 2, 23), with a range of 0.003–70 years. An age of onset <44 years was 86% accurate for vasovagal syncope.

Conclusion: The most common age at which vasovagal syncope first presents is 13 years, and patients remain at risk of syncope for many years. Lifelong coping strategies may be desirable.
The Impact of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy on Ventricular Tachycardia/Fibrillation: An Analysis from the Combined Contak‐CD and InSync‐ICD Studies
Authors: McSWAIN ROBERT L. , SCHWARTZ ROBERT A. , DeLURGIO DAVID B. , MERA FERNANDO V. , LANGBERG JONATHAN J. , LEÓN ANGEL R.
Published: September 2005

Objectives: To determine the potential influence of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) on the frequency and types of ventricular arrhythmia (VA) in patients with an indication for the implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD), we performed a retrospective electrogram (EGM) analysis of stored VA events from the two largest CRT‐ICD trials.

Background: Previous reports suggest that CRT might promote polymorphic VT (PVT), while a beneficial effect of CRT on ventricular function might reduce the frequency of monomorphic VT (MVT). Theoretically, a balanced effect produces no change in overall VA.

Methods: We analyzed stored EGMs from patients in the Contak‐CD and Insync‐ICD studies receiving appropriate therapy for VA. EGM inspection distinguishes MVT and PVT using morphologic criteria rather than cycle length classification alone.

Results: Of 1,041 subjects entering the two trials, 880 were randomized CRT (N = 439) or control (N = 441). We were able to analyze 840 EGMs in 150 patients with VA, including 678 MVT episodes and 162 PVT episodes. These events were distributed among 68 patients with active CRT (390 MVT vs 111 PVT) and 82 patients assigned to control (288 MVT compared to 51 PVT). The apparent increase in PVT episodes in the CRT group is not significant and can be explained by a disproportionate number of episodes in a few patients. We were unable to identify clinical variables predictive of PVT during CRT.

Conclusions: CRT is not associated with a measurable increase in the incidence of PVT, or in a reduction in MVT in the combined InSync‐ICD and Contak‐CD populations.
Primary Prophylaxis of Sudden Death in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy, and Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: KLEIN GEORGE J. , KRAHN ANDREW D. , SKANES ALLAN C. , YEE RAYMOND , GULA LORNE J.
Published: September 2005

We present an evidence‐based overview of primary prevention of sudden cardiac death. Several recent studies have provided important data regarding pharmacologic and device‐based therapy for patients with conditions that confer high risk for sudden death. A rational approach to these therapies, with emphasis on implanted cardiovertor defibrillators, is discussed.
Optimizing Resynchronization Therapy: Can We Increase the Number of True Responders?
Authors: DOSHI RAHUL N.
Published: September 2005

Cardiac resynchronization therapy is now considered a standard therapy for patients with cardiomyopathy, heart failure, and interventricular conduction delay. Despite the demonstrated benefits in multiple large‐scale trials, there is a clear nonresponder rate. This brief review will address some of the issues associated with maximizing the benefit of biventricular pacing, and whether or not advances in programming of such devices will increase the number of true responders.
Ablation of Idiopathic Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Tachycardia: Current Perspectives
Authors: JOSHI SANDEEP , WILBER DAVID J.
Published: September 2005

Ventricular tachycardia (VT) arising from the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) in the absence of overt structural heart disease is a common entity. Exclusion of occult structural disease such as arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy is critical as this diagnosis impacts both ablation outcomes and long‐term prognosis. VT is most commonly due to triggered activity. Induction of the target arrhythmia in the laboratory is often problematic, and is frequently facilitated by catecholamine infusion. Recent data indicate that high‐density three‐dimensional activation mapping facilitates identification of target sites for ablation, and that the spatial resolution of pacemapping may be more limited than previously recognized. A standard 12‐lead electrocardiogram is useful in providing an initial approximation of the site of origin within the outflow tract, and may contain subtle clues to potentially confounding foci on the left ventricular endocardial or epicardial surface. When sufficient arrhythmia is present to permit mapping, successful ablation can be expected in 90–95% of patients, with a recurrence risk of approximately 5%. In experienced centers, major complications are ≤1% and outcomes should approach those obtained for the common forms of supraventricular tachycardia.
Ventricular Tachycardia/Ventricular Fibrillation Ablation in the Setting of Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: MARCHLINSKI FRANCIS , GARCIA FERMIN , SIADATAN AMIR , SAUER WILLIAM , BELDNER STUART , ZADO ERICA , HSIA HENRY , LIN DAVID , COOPER JOSHUA , VERDINO RALPH , GERSTENFELD EDWARD , DIXIT SANJAY , RUSSO ANDREA , CALLANS DAVID
Published: September 2005

Recurrent ventricular tachycardia (VT) in the setting of coronary artery disease is frequently a life‐threatening electrophysiologic emergency. Even in patients with an implantable defibrillator, recurrent VT is frequently accompanied by repeated and disabling shock therapy. Catheter ablative therapy offers the ability to provide immediate control of recurrent VT. Long‐term elimination of VT should be anticipated in most patients. This article reviews the strategies, tools, techniques, and expected outcome for catheter ablation of stable and unstable ventricular arrhythmias in the setting ischemic heart disease.
Elastic Properties of the Ascending Aorta and Left Ventricular Function in Patients with Hypothyroidism
Authors: Özhan Hakan , Yazici Mehmet , Albayrak Sinan , Erbilen Enver , Bulur Serkan , Akdemir Ramazan , Uyan Cihangir
Published: September 2005

Background: We sought to clarify the possible role of elastic properties of the ascending aorta in the development of cardiac disease associated with hypothyroidism (HT). Methods: A total of 37 patients with HT (age: 39.3 ± 8.9 years) and 29 control subjects were studied. Ascending Aortic (Ao) diameter, Ao elastic indexes, strain (AoST), distensibility (AoD), stiffness index (AoSI), and pressure strain modulus were calculated from the echocardiographically derived Ao diameters. Myocardial performance index (MPI), E/A ratio, isovolumetric relaxation time (IVRT), deceleration time (DT) were measured by Doppler echocardiography to assess diastolic LV function. Patients were treated with levothyroxine and followed‐up for 6 months. Thyroid function tests and echocardiographic measurements were repeated at the end of the study. Results: AoD (cm2 dyn−1 10−3) and AoST (%) were significantly lower (3.8 vs. 6.1; P < 0.001, 7.4 vs. 12.6, P < 0.001; respectively), whereas AoSI was higher in HT patients (6.2 vs. 3.3; P < 0.001). After treatment, AoD and AoST were increased (5.7; P < 0.001 and 11.8; P < 0.001; respectively), whereas AoSI was decreased significantly (3.7; P < 0.001). Also, early/late mitral peak velocity ratio (Emax/Amax) was significantly lower in HT patients (1.19 vs 1.34; P < 0.01), whereas MPI was higher (0.52 vs. 0.42; P < 0.001). MPI showed a strong correlation with aortic root indexes [AoST (r =−0.61/P < 0.001); AoD, (r =−0.57/P < 0.002); AoSI, (r = 0.53/P < 0.005)] in the HT group. After 6 months of therapy, MPI significantly decreased P < 0.001) and E/A ratios were normalized (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Ao root functions have an important role on diastolic LV function. Levothyroxine replacement therapy can reverse all of these adverse effects of HT.
Live Three‐Dimensional Transthoracic Contrast Echocardiographic Assessment of Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Frans Ebenezer E. , Nanda Navin C. , Patel Vinod , Fonbah William S. , Vengala Srinivas , Mehmood Farhat , Bodiwala Kunal
Published: September 2005

We describe an adult patient in whom live three‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography combined with intravenous use of an echo contrast agent was useful in making a definitive diagnosis of apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and in characterizing the nature and full extent of the hypertrophy.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Calcium Diffusion in the Calcium Alumino‐Silicate Intergranular Films Between Different Alumina Grains
Authors: Zhang S. , Garofalini S. H.
Published: September 2005

Molecular dynamics computer simulations were used to study diffusion of calcium ions in calcium alumino‐silicate (CAS) intergranular films (IGFs) connecting two differently oriented alumina crystals. Diffusion coefficients and the activation energy for Ca diffusion in different parts of the IGF were calculated over four different IGF systems. The simulation results show that the diffusion coefficients adjacent to the interfaces are smaller and the activation energies are much higher than those in the interior of the IGF and in bulk glasses. Ca diffusion is greatly affected by the ordered structures at the basal and prism interfaces, while it is only slightly affected in the interior of the IGF in comparison to bulk glass behavior. The activation energies for Ca diffusion in the bulk‐simulated glasses are similar to that found experimentally and slightly lower in the interior of the same composition IGF. The results suggest that Ca transport is mainly though the interior of the IGF and implies that diffusion would be significantly inhibited by sufficiently thin IGFs.
Fabrication and Microstructure of C/SiC Composites Using a Novel Heaterless Chemical Vapor Infiltration Technique
Authors: Tang Sufang , Deng Jingyi , Du Haifeng , Liu Wenchuan , Yang Ke
Published: September 2005

Fabrication of C/SiC composites by using the heaterless chemical vapor infiltration (HCVI) technique, which is an improved technology based on the conventional chemical vapor infiltration, is reported for the first time in this paper. In the HCVI process, a gradient temperature field formed in the fiber preform overcomes the problems of slow diffusion and restricted permeability of gaseous reactant species to some extent, and the electro‐deposition is necessary to accelerate the SiC deposition rates. The highest linear deposition rates of SiC matrix within inter‐fiber pores are 0.33 μm/h. Microstructures of the C/SiC composites are uniform, and the inter‐fiber and inter‐ply pores can be well infiltrated. The longitudinal and circumferential microcracks are found in the composites.
The Effect of Zirconia Reinforcing Agents on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Hydroxyapatite‐Based Nanocomposites
Authors: Ahn Edward S. , Gleason Nathaniel J. , Ying Jackie Y.
Published: September 2005

A hydrothermally treated zirconia colloid was introduced during the precipitation of hydroxyapatite (HAP) to achieve an HAP–zirconia nanocomposite. High dispersion of zirconia was achieved at zirconia loadings below 8 wt%. Vickers hardness was optimized with a 1.5 wt% loading of zirconia. A low loading (1.5 wt%) of tetragonal zirconia was able to increase the bending strength of nanocrystalline HAP from 183 to 243 MPa. This HAP–zirconia nanocomposite was sintered to full density by 1000°C under an applied load of 50 MPa. The average grain sizes of HAP and zirconia were maintained at ≤100 nm. With the high strength and low loading of secondary phase, these HAP‐based nanocomposites should be attractive for orthopedic and dental implant applications.
Dispersing Properties of Copolymers Able to Act as Binders
Authors: Ben Romdhane M. Ramzi , Baklouti Samir , Bouaziz Jamel , Chartier Thierry , Baumard Jean‐François
Published: September 2005

Macromolecules, containing both charged groups (COO− and SO3−), in order to ensure powder dispersion, and neutral groups (vinyl alcohol and ethyl hydroxyl acrylate), in order to obtain enough strength in the green parts, were synthesized to be used in the dry pressing process. The evaluation and the comparison of the capacity of these synthesized copolymers with disperse alumina particles in aqueous media are considered in this paper. Both COO− and SO3− ionized groups are responsible for strong adsorption onto alumina surface and can promote sufficient electrostatic repulsive forces to achieve a good state of dispersion. The role of the copolymers in the stabilization of alumina suspensions was found to be greatly affected by the nature and by the fraction of groups in the macromolecular chains. A low concentration of copolymers (0.5 wt% on alumina basis) containing 35% of carboxylic groups and 65% of vinyl alcohol groups (PV35) or containing 55% of carboxylic groups and 45% of hydroxy ethyl acrylate groups (EH2A55) leads to stable alumina suspensions with a low viscosity similar to that obtained with a classical ammonium polymethacrylate (between 10 and 20 mPa·s for 27 vol% alumina suspensions). Copolymers containing sulfonate groups are less efficient.
Densification and Grain Growth of Al2O3 Nanoceramics During Pressureless Sintering
Authors: Li Jiangong , Ye Yinping
Published: September 2005

α‐Al2O3 nanopowders with mean particle sizes of 10, 15, 48, and 80 nm synthesized by the doped α‐Al2O3 seed polyacrylamide gel method were used to sinter bulk Al2O3 nanoceramics. The relative density of the Al2O3 nanoceramics increases with increasing compaction pressure on the green compacts and decreasing mean particle size of the starting α‐Al2O3 nanopowders. The densification and fast grain growth of the Al2O3 nanoceramics occur in different temperature ranges. The Al2O3 nanoceramics with an average grain size of 70 nm and a relative density of 95% were obtained by a two‐step sintering method. The densification and the suppression of the grain growth are achieved by exploiting the difference in kinetics between grain‐boundary diffusion and grain‐boundary migration. The densification was realized by the slower grain‐boundary diffusion without promoting grain growth in second‐step sintering.
Clonally rearranged T‐cell receptor β chain genes in HTLV‐I carriers with abnormal, non‐flower‐like, lymphocytes
Authors: Sales Maria M. , Bezerra Camila N. A. , Hiraki Yumi , Melo Neusa B. , Rebouças Nancy A.
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  Background: The diagnosis of Adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma ATLL subtypes in human T‐lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV‐I) carriers based in morphology and immunophenotype of lymphocytes can be challenger. We propose that polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of the rearranged TCR gene in HTLV‐I healthy carriers would be a convenient method for establishing the nature of the circulating T lymphocytes in asymptomatic HTLV‐I carriers, presenting only mild and inconclusive signals of deviation from normality. Methods: Using PCR, we analyzed the genetic recombination pattern of the T‐cell β‐chain receptor gene (TCR‐β) in order to identify clonal expansion of peripheral blood T lymphocytes in 17 HTLV‐I‐positive healthy carriers and in nine normal HTLV‐I‐negative blood donors. To evaluate the performance of PCR in detection of clonality, we also analyzed 18 patients with post‐thymic/mature T‐cell malignancies presenting circulating abnormal lymphocytes. Results: Seven of the 17 HTLV‐I positive individuals presented circulating abnormal lymphocytes; monoclonal or oligoclonal expansion of T‐cells was detected in five of the 17 HTLV‐I‐positive individuals, all of them presenting abnormal lymphocytes. Clonal expansion was not detected in any of the negative controls or in any of the 12 remaining healthy carriers. All patients in the positive control group tested positive by PCR and Southern blots. Southern blots were negative for all 17 healthy carriers. Conclusions: PCR amplification of segments of rearranged TCR‐β is reliable for allowing early detection of small populations of clonal T cells in blood samples from asymptomatic HTLV‐I carriers, providing an additional alert in the follow‐up of carriers with abnormal circulating lymphocytes.
First‐line autologous stem cell transplantation in primary CNS lymphoma
Authors: Brevet M. , Garidi R. , Gruson B. , Royer B. , Vaida I. , Damaj G.
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  The treatment of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) has been considerably improved over recent years. In this article, we report six cases of PCNSL treated by first‐line induction chemotherapy followed by intensive chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). Six immunocompetent patients presenting with a PCNSL, confirmed by thoraco‐abdomino‐pelvic computer tomography scan and bone marrow biopsy, were treated with induction chemotherapy followed by BEAM intensive chemotherapy and ASCT and radiotherapy. At the end of the treatment, all the patients were in complete remission. After a median follow‐up of 41.5 months (17–70 months), four patients were alive without signs of relapse (median survival: 35.5 months). Two patients died from relapse at 19 and 23 months. The neurotoxicity was low with epilepsy in one patient and persistent left side dysesthesia in another one. These results are fairly encouraging. Other studies with greater numbers of patients and longer follow‐up are needed to confirm this study.
Quality of life may be affected more by disease parameters and response to therapy than by haemoglobin changes
Authors: Wisløff Finn , Gulbrandsen Nina , Hjorth Martin , Lenhoff Stig , Fayers Peter
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  Earlier studies showing a negative impact of anaemia on quality of life (QOL) lack adequate adjustment for confounding factors such as disease stage and tumour response. We examined the impact of haemoglobin concentration on QOL scores of 745 multiple myeloma patients followed from diagnosis, adjusting for objective disease parameters. Data from two Nordic studies with the EORTC QLQ‐C30 questionnaire were analysed using linear regression analysis. Haemoglobin was independently related only to fatigue at baseline (P = 0.001) and at 12 months (P = 0.010). In multivariate analysis, extent of skeletal disease was at least as strong a predictor for fatigue at diagnosis as haemoglobin and was also related to other important QOL scores such as physical functioning, role functioning, global QOL and pain (P < 0.001). At 12 months’ follow‐up, response to therapy was related to physical functioning (P < 0.001) and pain (P = 0.001). In conclusion, haemoglobin and extent of skeletal disease were both predictors for fatigue in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma, but extent of skeletal disease was also associated with other important QOL scores. During follow‐up, response to therapy emerged as an important predictor variable. When examining the effect of haemoglobin on QOL, it is essential to adjust for disease parameters and response to therapy in order not to overestimate the impact of haemoglobin on QOL. Our findings imply that uncontrolled studies on the effect of erythropoietin (EPO) in cancer patients may be making exaggerated claims for the effect of EPO on QOL.
Extensive flow cytometric characterization of plasmacytoid dendritic cell leukemia cells
Authors: Gopcsa Laszlo , Banyai Aniko , Jakab Katalin , Kormos Luca , Tamaska Julia , Matolcsy Andras , Gogolak Peter , Rajnavolgyi Eva , Paloczi Katalin
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  Objectives: Accumulating evidence suggests that non‐T, non‐B cell CD4+CD56+ neoplasms with lymphoblastic morphology include clinically and immunophenotypically diverse entities. Although their cells of origin or classification are still controversial several entities clearly represent a distinct type of neoplasms that are clinically aggressive. Methods: In this work we present the immunophenotypic and genotypic features of bone marrow (BM), peripheral blood (PB), lymph node and skin lymphocytes from a patient diagnosed as plasmacytoid dendritic cell leukemia involving the skin, BM, PB, lymph nodes, liver and spleen. For determination of immunophenotypic characteristics of malignant plasmacytoid dendritic cells 73 monoclonal antibodies detecting lineage markers, chemokine receptors, cytokine receptors, activation, and co‐stimulatory molecules were used. Results and conclusion: The malignant cells proved to express CD4+, CD56+ lineage negative leukemia phenotype characteristically positive for CD36, CD38, CD40, CD45, CD45RA, CD68, CD123, CD184, HLA‐DR, BDCA2, and granzyme‐B corresponding to the preplasmacytoid dendritic cell developmental stage. The presence of CD11a/CD18, CD84, CD91, CD95, αvβ5, CDw197, and the absence of CD52 and CD133 in this case can be regarded as additional features of malignant cells. Completing the immunophenotypes with multidrug resistance function can provide additional information for characterizing pDC leukemia.
Transplantation with higher dose of natural killer cells associated with better outcomes in terms of non‐relapse mortality and infectious events after allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation from HLA‐matched sibling donors
Authors: Kim Dong Hwan , Sohn Sang Kyun , Lee Nan Young , Baek Jin Ho , Kim Jong Gwang , Won Dong IL , Suh Jang Soo , Lee Kyu Bo , Shin Im Hee
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  Background: Little is known about the role of the CD56+ natural killer (NK) cell dose on the outcome of allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT). Recently, higher dose of NK cells has been associated with a lower incidence of severe graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD). The current study attempted to evaluate the effect of the NK cell dose on transplant outcomes in allogeneic PBSCT setting. Methods and materials: Sixty‐one cytokine mobilized PBSC recipients were analyzed according to the infused dose of CD34+ cells and NK cells in relation to overall survival (OS), non‐relapse mortality (NRM), GVHD, and infectious events. Results: The group received a higher dose of NK cells (≥5 × 107/kg) showed a lower incidence of NRM (P = 0.0186) and infectious events (P = 0.0107). In a multivariate analysis, a higher dose of NK cells was correlated to better transplant outcomes for NRM (P = 0.042) with CD34+ cell dose (P = 0.018), and for infectious events (P = 0.013) with CD34+ cell dose (P = 0.016). Higher NK cell infusion group also showed a faster immune recovery in serial measurements at days +90, +180, and +365. Conclusions: High dose of NK cells may play an important role in improving transplant outcomes, in terms of reducing NRM and infectious events together with CD34+ cells.
A case of immune recovery vitritis induced by donor leukocyte infusion for the treatment of cytomegalovirus retinitis
Authors: Kawakami Manabu , Nakata Jun , Ohguro Nobuyuki , Yoshihara Satoshi , Inoue Takayuki , Tatekawa Toyoshi , Ikegame Kazuhiro , Oka Yoshihiro , Kawase Ichiro , Ogawa Hiroyasu
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  Donor leukocyte infusion (DLI) has been successfully used for some life‐threatening viral infections after stem cell transplantation (SCT). We describe here the first case of DLI treatment for cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis. A 49‐year‐old female patient with AML, M1 underwent SCT with a reduced‐intensity conditioning regimen from HLA‐haploidentical son. On day +140, the patient developed CMV retinitis of her left eye despite the continuing antiviral therapy. DLI at a dose of 1 × 105 CD3+ cells/kg was added to ganciclovir and foscarnet therapy. Eighteen days after the DLI, the funduscopic findings revealed improvement of the retinitis and the development of vitreous inflammation. Simultaneously, the number of CD4+ cells in the peripheral blood rapidly increased. Thus, we consider it likely that DLI induced a local immune response against CMV antigens, which resulted in the immune recovery vitritis. This case suggested the potentiality of DLI for the treatment of CMV retinitis.
Ultraviolet A exposure alters adhesive properties of mouse melanoma cells
Authors: Pastila Riikka , Leszczynski Dariusz
Published: September 2005

Background: We have examined whether ultraviolet A (UVA) irradiation could alter adhesive properties of melanoma cells. As an experimental in vitro model, we have used C57BL/6 mouse‐derived B16‐ F1 and B16‐F10 melanoma cell lines and the syngeneic MS‐1 endothelial cell line.

Method/Result: The melanoma cells were exposed to different doses of UVA irradiation. We have determined that a single dose of UVA at 8 and 12 J/cm2 causes an 88% (P<0.001) and a 32% (P<0.05) increase in B16‐F1 melanoma cell adhesiveness to the non‐irradiated endothelial monolayer, respectively. The peak of the response was 24 h after the irradiation. The UVA dose of 8 J/cm2 delivered in four doses separated by 1 h intervals (4 × 2 J/cm2) had led to a caused 149% (P<0.001) increase of B16‐F1 melanoma adhesiveness already at 1 h after the last dose of UVA. Besides the induction of increase in the melanoma–endothelial cell adhesion, UVA exposure has induced a rapid decline (1 h after exposure) in homotypic melanoma–melanoma cell adhesion (clustering). The clustering decline of B16‐F1 cells with a single dose of UVA at 8 J/cm2 was by 61% (P<0.05) and by 35% (P<0.05) with 4 × 2 J/cm2. Pilot experiments have shown that the changes of the adhesive properties of melanoma cells were accompanied by an increase in N‐cadherin expression and a decline in E‐cadherin expression. Such a change in cadherin expression profile has been shown to be an indicator of the increased metastatic potential.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that UVA radiation appears to alter the adhesive properties of melanoma cells in vitro, by diminishing the melanoma–melanoma adhesion and by increasing melanoma adhesion to the endothelium. This suggests that UVA exposure might increase the metastatic capability of the melanoma cells.
Determination of the minimal phototoxic dose and colorimetry in psoralen plus ultraviolet A radiation therapy
Authors: Kraemer Cristine Kloeckner , Menegon Dóris Baratz , Cestari Tania Ferreira
Published: September 2005

Background: The use of an adequate initial dose of ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation for photochemotherapy is important to prevent burns secondary to overdosage, meanwhile avoiding a reduced clinical improvement and long‐term risks secondary to underdosage. The ideal initial dose of UVA can be achieved based on the phototype and the minimal phototoxic dose (MPD). The objective measurement of constitutive skin color (colorimetry) is another method commonly used to quantify the erythematous skin reaction to ultraviolet radiation exposure. The aim of this study was to determine variations in MPD and constitutional skin color (coordinate L*) within different phototypes in order to establish the best initial dose of UVA radiation for photochemotherapy patients.

Methods: Thirty‐six patients with dermatological conditions and 13 healthy volunteers were divided into five groups according to phototype. Constitutional skin color of the infra‐axillary area was assessed by colorimetry. The infra‐axillary area was subsequently divided into twelve 1.5 cm2 regions to determine the MPD; readings were performed 72 h after oral administration of 8‐methoxypsoralen (MOP) followed by exposure of the demarcated regions to increasing doses of UVA.

Results: The majority of the participants were women (73.5%) and their mean age was 38.8 years. The MPD ranged from 4 to 12 J/cm2 in phototypes II and III; from 10 to 18 J/cm2 in type IV; from 12 to 24 J/cm2 in type V and from 18 to 32 J/cm2 in type VI. The analysis of colorimetric values (L* coordinate) and MPD values allowed the definition of three distinctive groups of individuals composed by phototypes II and III (group 1), types IV and V (group 2), and phototype VI (group 3).

Conclusions: MPD and L* coordinate showed variation within the same phototype and superposition between adjacent phototypes. The values of the L* coordinate and the MPD lead to the definition of three distinct sensitivity groups: phototypes II and III, IV and V and type VI. Also, the MPD values bear a strong correlation to coordinate L* values. Mean MPD values described for each of the three major sensitivity groups were higher than the values commonly used in clinical settings for the different phototypes. Therefore, phototype alone is not a good parameter to define the initial UVA dose. MPD and colorimetry could be used in pre‐treatment evaluation of patients who are to be submitted to photochemotherapy, in a non‐invasive and more accurate way when compared with the classical phenotype clinical criteria.
Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis: idiopathic or ultraviolet induced?
Authors: Kaya T. I. , Yazici A. C. , Tursen U. , Ikizoglu G.
Published: September 2005

Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis (IGH) is a common but often unrecognized skin disease with obscure etiopathogenesis. As the lesions mostly develop on the exposed parts of the extremities, ultraviolet has been hypothesized to induce these lesions. However, previous statistical studies did not confirm any association between ultraviolet and IGH. We describe a 72‐year‐old woman with mycosis fungoides in whom widespread IGH occurred during narrow band ultraviolet B (UVB) therapy. The lesion development in the trunk following narrow band UVB therapy suggests that these lesions may not be idiopathic and they may be associated with UV exposure although controversy exist in the literature. This case is particular as it reveals strong evidence on this relationship.
Phototherapy: How does UV work?
Authors: Weichenthal Michael , Schwarz Thomas
Published: September 2005

Phototherapy has been largely empirical. Thus, despite the long term use its mechanisms of action are quite unclear. Because of the recent achievements in photoimmunology and molecular photobiology we are now beginning to understand some of the mechanisms. Many of the effects are certainly mediated via induction of apoptotic cell death. Another major mechanism is the induction of immunosuppression. This review primarily focuses on recent advances in photoimmunology which will contribute to the further understanding how phototherapy acts.