bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of felbamate in children under 4 years of age: a retrospective chart review
Authors: Grosso S. , Maria Cordelli D. , Coppola G. , Franzoni E. , Verrotti A. , Berardi R. , Balestri P.
Published: July 2008

Background and purpose:  To review our experience of the efficacy and tolerability of felbamate in children younger than 4 years.

Methods:  We used a retrospective chart review to identify 53 children with seizures who were younger than 4 years. Efficacy was evaluated based on the occurrence of responsiveness, defined as seizure frequency reduction of more than 50% for a minimum period of 4 months. Tolerability was based on parent‐reported side effects.

Results:  Twenty‐two (41%) patients resulted to be responders and 31 (59%) did not. By univariate analysis, those achieving seizure remission were probably much older, to have a shorter history of epilepsy and a lower frequency of seizures before felbamate therapy. The number of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) used before felbamate therapy was the only significant predictor of the duration of response to felbamate, with a longer responsiveness to the drug seen in those who were placed under fewer than three AEDs before felbamate compared with those who had taken more than three (median, 16 months vs. 7 months; P < 0.0084). Side effects occurred in 30% of the subjects, but these did not require discontinuation of the drug.

Discussion:  Felbamate is an effective medication for a wide range of epilepsy syndromes in children younger than 4 years. Although caution is necessary when the drug is used in children, felbamate might represent a possible option for the treatment of epilepsy in this age group.
Case–control study of patients with essential tremor in Latvia
Authors: Inashkina I. , Radovica I. , Smeltere L. , Vitols E. , Jankevics E.
Published: July 2008

Background:  Essential tremor (ET) is the most prevalent inherited movement disorder. ET has been mapped on chromosomes 2 and 3, but causative genes are not known.

Methods:  We genotyped 16 microsatellite markers in a case–control cohort consisting of 104 patients and 116 controls.

Results:  No significant difference between allele frequencies was found. The highest difference of frequencies was found in allele 171 of the marker D2S220 (OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.02–1.03, P = 0.05). In addition, we investigated the distribution of suspected disease gene DRD3 Ser9Gly polymorphism in the same patients and controls.

Conclusion:  There was not a significant difference in genotypic distribution between disease group and control subjects (χ2 = 2.8, P = 0.25).
An Intentional View of the Copyright Work
Authors: Pila Justine
Published: July 2008

The questions at the heart of copyright – what is a work, and the extent of copyright protection – are considered. Arguments are presented firstly for an understanding of works oriented around expressive intent, and secondly for a statutory test of infringement that pays closer attention to issues of policy and the authorial acts that copyright rewards. The article revisits two central cases of modern English copyright law, Walter v Lane and Interlego v Tyco Industries, and suggests that their reasoning is problematic; Walter v Lane because the transcripts of Lord Rosebery's speeches were not books for copyright purposes, and Interlego because the technical specifications were part of the drawings, which were consequently new artistic works for copyright purposes. This is supported by contemporary authority – including paradoxically Sawkins v Hyperion Records, which recently affirmed the correctness of both cases – and has wider implications for our copyright regime.
‘Dedicating’ Copyright to the Public Domain
Authors: Johnson Phillip
Published: July 2008

This article explores whether authors can dedicate their copyright to the public domain. Such dedications are becoming increasingly relevant as authors now see the expansion of the public domain as value in itself. This is facilitated by organisations providing pro forma documents for dedicating works to the public domain. However, there has been no real consideration of what, if any, legal effect a dedication to the public might have. This article suggests that such dedications are no more than copyright licences which, in English and US law at least, can be revoked at will. This means that users of such works must rely on estoppel alone to enforce any dedication to the public domain.
A Strange Sort of Survival for Pinnel's Case: Collier v P & M J Wright (Holdings) Limited
Authors: Austen‐Baker Richard
Published: July 2008

This note discusses the decision of the Court of Appeal in Collier v P & M J Wright (Holdings) Limited, and notes that while the Court purports to uphold both the decision in Pinnel's Case and the effect of Re Selectmove, in fact, by an extension of promissory estoppel, it bypasses them.
Tailoring Texture of γ‐Y2Si2O7 by Strong Magnetic Field Alignment and Two‐Step Sintering
Authors: Sun Z. Q. , Zhu X. W. , Li M. S. , Zhou Y. C. , Sakka Y.
Published: July 2008

In this study, a well‐dispersed γ‐Y2Si2O7 ethanol‐based suspension with 30 vol% solid loading was prepared by adding 1 dwb% polyethylene imine dispersant, which allows feeble magnetic γ‐Y2Si2O7 particles with anisotropic magnetic susceptibility to rotate in a 12 T strong magnetic field during slip casting, resulting in the development of a strong

texture in green bodies. Pressureless sintering gives rise to more pronounced grain growth in the textured sample than in the untextured sample prepared without the magnetic field due to the rapid migration of the grain boundaries of the well‐oriented grains, which was revealed by constant‐heating‐rate sintering kinetics. It was found that the use of two‐step sintering is very efficient not only for inhibiting the grain growth but also for enhancing the

texture. This implies that controlled grain growth is crucial for enhancing texture development in γ‐Y2Si2O7.
Spray Pyrolysis Synthesis and Dielectric Properties of Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3
Authors: Zhou Xiao‐Dong , Zhang Shi‐Chang , Huebner Wayne
Published: July 2008

Spray pyrolysis was used to synthesize lead magnesium niobate (PMN) by atomizing a mixture of nitrate aqueous solutions into a high‐temperature furnace. This approach allows for instant removal of solvents and decomposition of metal–salts, thereby limiting phase segregation on a nanometer scale, and lowering the transformation temperature for pyrochlore‐to‐perovskite phase transition. As‐synthesized particles were nanocrystalline pyrochlores, with an average crystallite size ∼22 nm. More than 96% perovskite phase was obtained when as‐sprayed powders were subsequently calcined at 750°C for 4 h. Sintered PMN ceramics exhibited the typical frequency‐dependent dielectric properties, with a peak value of dielectric constant of 18 000, and a transition temperature at −9.6°C at 100 Hz. A series of ceramics were prepared with varied grain sizes. Increasing the grain size increased the dielectric constant, probably due to the smaller fraction of the less‐polarizable grain‐boundary phases.
Thermal Behaviors and Phase Evolution of Lead Zirconate Titanate Prepared by Sol–Gel Processing: The Role of the Pyrolysis Time before Calcination
Authors: Chang Tien‐I , Wang Sheng‐Chang , Liu Chuan‐Pu , Lin Chen‐Fu , Huang Jow‐Lay
Published: July 2008

Lead zirconate titanate (PZT) (53/47) powders were fabricated by the alkoxide‐based sol–gel process, and the different drying times (1 and 12 h) at the pyrolysis temperature (300°C) of lead acetate were studied. The different pyrolysis time before calcination affects the onset and the violently dominant decomposition temperatures of lead acetate. According to the estimated activation energy results, the 1 h pyrolysis time showed that the transformation of the pyrochlore to perovskite phase is nucleation‐controlled (424.5 kJ/mol), but the 12 h pyrolysis time is growth‐controlled (125 kJ/mol). It was also found that the relative PZT perovskite contents were controlled by the carbonaceous material contents within the dried gels and the release rate of hydrocarbon during the pyrolysis process. With the proper pyrolysis‐treated PZT powders, the dense, phase‐coexisted PZT bulks could be produced at a low sintering temperature of 950° and 1000°C. The phase transformation of the PZT ceramics changed from the rhombohedral phase (900°C) to rhombohedral and tetragonal phase coexistence (950° and 1000°C), then finally to the monolithic tetragonal phase (1050° and 1100°C). A phase diagram is plotted based on the different sintering conditions. The dielectric properties were dependent on the relative densities of the PZT bulks, and the PZT bulks sintered at 1000°C for 6 h had superior dielectric constant (1080) and lowest dielectric loss (0.7%).
Sintering Characteristic, Microstructure, and Dielectric Relaxor Behavior of (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3–(Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3 Lead‐Free Ceramics
Authors: Du Hongliang , Zhou Wancheng , Zhu Dongmei , Fa Luo , Qu Shaobo , Li Ye , Pei Zhibin
Published: July 2008

Highly dense lead‐free ceramics (1−x)(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3−x(Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3 [(1−x)KNN−xBNT] have been synthesized by pressureless sintering owing to the careful control of processing conditions. The densification of (1−x)KNN−xBNT ceramics improves with increasing addition of BNT. The translucence is observed in 0.96 KNN–0.04 BNT ceramics. Diffuse phase transition and frequency dispersion of the dielectric constant, which are two typical characteristics for relaxor ferroelectrics, are observed in (1−x)KNN−xBNT ceramics. Dielectric relaxor behavior obeys a modified Curie–Weiss law. In addition, (1−x)KNN−xBNT ceramics possess a high Curie temperature (>320°C). The results indicate that (1−x)KNN−xBNT (x=0.06) ceramics are promising lead‐free candidate relaxor ferroelectrics for high‐temperature applications.
Microstructure and Electrical Properties of [(K0.50Na0.50)0.95−xLi0.05Agx](Nb0.95Ta0.05)O3 Lead‐Free Ceramics
Authors: Wang Yuanyu , Wu Jiagang , Xiao Dingquan , Wu Wenjuan , Zhang Bing , Wu Lang , Zhu Jianguo
Published: July 2008

[(K0.50Na0.50)0.95−xLi0.05Agx](Nb0.95Ta0.05)O3 (KNLNANT‐x) lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics were prepared by normal sintering. Effects of the Ag content on the microstructure and electrical properties of KNLNANT‐x ceramics were systematically investigated. It is found that the ceramics with x=0.03 exhibit relatively good electrical properties along with high Curie temperature: (d33∼252 pC/N, Tc∼438°C, kp∼45.4%, Pr∼30.1 μC/cm2, Ec∼13.8 kV/cm, ɛr∼1030, and tan δ∼2.6%). The related mechanism for enhanced electrical properties of the ceramics was also discussed. These results show that KNLNANT‐0.03 ceramic is a promising candidate material for high temperature lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics.
Low‐Temperature Synthesis and Characterization of Lead Zinc Niobate Thick Films
Authors: Chen Xiuli , Fan Huiqing , Chen Jin , Liu Laiju
Published: July 2008

Perovskite Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 (PZN) thick films were prepared by a hydrothermal route at a low temperature (150°C) on Ti metal, where the titanium (Ti) metal served as both the substrate and bottom electrode for the PZN films. The thickness of the PZN film fabricated on the Ti substrate was about 20 μm. We have demonstrated that the concentration of KOH plays a key role in obtaining the perovskite structure in the PZN film. The dielectric relaxation was studied as a function of temperature and frequency. A dispersion of the maximum dielectric permittivity (ɛmax) appears around the temperature of Tm, which shifts toward higher temperatures with increasing frequency. The variation of Tm with frequency follows the Vogel–Fulcher relationship. The variation of 1/ɛ with temperature above Tm deviates from the Curie–Weiss (CW) law but satisfies the modified CW law. The relaxation indication coefficient (γ) and broadening parameter (Δ) were estimated from a quadratic fit of the modified Curie–Weiss law and were found to be 2.00 and 42 K, respectively, indicating strong relaxor behavior. The samples showed excellent reproducibility in the measurements of leakage current, a remnant polarization of 14 μC/cm2, and a coercive field of 300 kV/m.
Morphometric evaluation of the repair of critical‐size defects using demineralized bovine bone and autogenous bone grafts in rat calvaria
Authors: Oliveira Rodrigo Cardoso de , Oliveira Fabio Henrique Gelonese de , Cestari Tânia Mary , Taga Rumio , Granjeiro José Mauro
Published: July 2008

Objective: To evaluate the repair of critical‐size bone defects in rats treated with demineralized bovine bone (DBB) compared with autogenous bone (AB).

Material and method: A bone defect of 8 mm in diameter was created in the calvaria of 50 Rattus norvegicus, treated either with DBB or AB. Sub‐groups of five rats of each group were killed at 7, 14, 21, 30 and 90 days post‐operatively, and the skulls were removed and processed histologically. Histological sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin.

Result: Histological analysis showed complete closure of the defects with new bone at 90 days in group AB, and substitution of the biomaterial by fibrotic connective tissue in the DBB group at 21 days. Morphometric analysis showed that DBB was rapidly absorbed at 14 days, with its volume density decreasing from 47%±0.8% at 7 days to 1.2%±0.41% at 14 days. Subsequently, volume densities of the connective tissue and neoformed bone increased from 51.1%±11.17% to 86.8%±7.92% and from 1.9%±1.13% to 12%±8.02%, respectively, for the same time interval. The volume density of AB particles did not change throughout the experimental periods, but the amount of new bone increased markedly between 7 and 90 days, from 4.5%±1.57% to 53.5%±6.42% (P<0.05).

Conclusion: DBB did not provide complete repair of the defects, with significantly less new bone formation than in the AB group.
Analysis of association of clinical aspects and vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism with dental implant loss
Authors: Alvim‐Pereira Fabiano , Montes Claudia Cristina , Thomé Geninho , Olandoski Marcia , Trevilatto Paula Cristina
Published: July 2008

Osseointegration failure is a complex, multifactorial trait shown to concentrate in some treated populations. There has been shown evidence for genetic contribution to dental implant loss. Genetic polymorphisms have been classically considered as genetic risk factors for several diseases and, more recently, for dental implant loss.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to access clinical factors related to failure process, and to investigate the relationship between a vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphism (rs731236, TaqI) and dental implant loss.

Material and methods: Two hundred and seventeen unrelated patients, mean age 51.7±11.3 years, were divided into two groups: (i) control group (C), 137 individuals presenting at least one osseointegrated implant in function for 6 months or more and without any implant loss, and (ii) study group (S), 80 individuals presenting at least one implant loss. After DNA collection and purification, VDR TaqI polymorphism analysis was performed by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphisms (PCR‐RFLP). Differences between C and S, and between healthy (H; n=1232) and lost (L; n=135) implants were accessed.

Results: Positive evidence of association has been detected between implant loss and the following variables: edentulism, implant position, primary stability, and implant length. Cox's regression model showed that primary stability, surgical technique and bone quantity were related to implant survival over time. No association between genotypes or alleles of VDR TaqI polymorphism and implant loss was found between the groups.

Conclusion: It was observed that clinical variables, but not the study polymorphism, were associated with dental implant loss.
Clinical and histologic comparison of two different composite grafts for sinus augmentation: a pilot clinical trial
Authors: Galindo‐Moreno Pablo , Ávila Gustavo , Fernández‐Barbero Juan Emilio , Mesa Francisco , O'Valle‐Ravassa Francisco , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: July 2008

Background and objectives: Sinus augmentation is a procedure used for augmenting insufficient bone height that is often observed in the maxillary posterior areas. Many different techniques as well as bone graft regimens have been suggested for performing this procedure. It was the goal of this study to compare, clinically and histologically, two different composite grafting regimens used for sinus augmentation.

Material and methods: Five patients, needing a bilateral sinus augmentation to allow implant placement, were recruited for this study. Right sinuses were grafted with cortical bone (collected from overlying the sinus membrane) and bovine hydroxyapatite (HA), while the left side sinuses were grafted with overlying autologous bone plus a bioglass (BG) material. Bone core biopsies were taken at 6 months after sinus graft or at the time of implant insertion. A waiting period of 6 additional months was granted to allow healing, before prosthetic restoration and functional loading. The level of peri‐implant bone was evaluated 12 months after loading. A comparative histomorphometric analysis was conducted and a statistical analysis was performed.

Results: All implants in both groups were functional after a 12‐month loading period. No bone loss was observed radiographically or clinically in both groups. Histologic analysis revealed that both composite grafts had a high biocompatibility. In the bovine HA‐containing group, minimal xenogenic graft absorption was noted. In contrast, BG group samples presented a high absorption rate with some remaining particles imbedded in new normal bone.

Conclusions: Sinus augmentation using a combination of autogenous bone plus either bovine HA or BG is a predictable technique.
Cross‐linked and non‐cross‐linked collagen barrier membranes disintegrate following surgical exposure to the oral environment: a histological study in the cat
Authors: Tal Haim , Kozlovsky Avital , Artzi Zvi , Nemcovsky Carlos E. , Moses Ofer
Published: July 2008

Background: Early barrier membrane degradation may result in decreased bone formation in guided bone regeneration (GBR) procedures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bio‐degradation of cross‐linked (CLM) and non‐cross‐linked (NCLM) collagen membranes experimentally exposed to the oral environment of study animals.

Methods: In eight cats, 48 surgical procedures were performed, three along each side of the palate: 24 full‐thickness soft tissue perforations were made and 24 full‐thickness mini‐flaps were raised. CLM or NCLM discs were placed either under the perforations and peripheral mucosa and left exposed (experimental) or covered by the flaps (controls). The four treatment modalities were equally distributed among the eight animals. Block sections were retrieved at 7 and 28 days post‐operatively, providing histological specimens (6 each) at 7 and 28 days for each treatment modality.

Results: Histological observation revealed that CLM and NCLM remained intact in the control sites during the 28 days. At 7 and 28 days, CLM appeared interrupted in three and two experimental sites, respectively, and were undetected in the remaining sites. NCLM were interrupted in two sites each at 7 and 28 days, and were undetected in the other sites. There was no statistical difference between control specimens and between CLM and NCLM of the different treatment modalities at 7 or 28 days.

Conclusions: Both cross‐linked and non‐cross‐linked membranes were resistant to tissue degradation and maintained continuity throughout the study. However, none of the membranes was resistant to degradation when exposed to the oral environment.
Back‐scattered electron imaging and elemental microanalysis of retrieved bone tissue following maxillary sinus floor augmentation with calcium sulphate
Authors: Slater Nicola , Dasmah Amir , Sennerby Lars , Hallman Mats , Piattelli Adriano , Sammons Rachel
Published: July 2008

Objectives: To investigate the presence and composition of residual bone graft substitute material in bone biopsies from the maxillary sinus of human subjects, following augmentation with calcium sulphate (CaS).

Material and methods: Bone cores were harvested from the maxillary sinus of patients who had undergone a sinus lift procedure using CaS G170 granules 4 months after the initial surgery. Samples from seven patients, which contained residual biomaterial particles, were examined by field emission scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy was used to determine the composition of the remaining bone graft substitute material.

Results: Residual graft material occurred in isolated areas surrounded by bone and consisted of individual particles up to 1 mm in length and smaller spherical granules. On the basis of 187 separate point analyses, the residual material was divided into three categories (A, B and C) consisting of: A, mainly CaS (S/P atomic% ratio ≥2.41); B, a heterogeneous mixture of CaS and calcium phosphate (S/P=0.11–2.4) and C, mainly calcium phosphate (S/P≤0.11; C), which had a mean Ca : P ratio of 1.63±0.2, consistent with Ca‐deficient hydroxyapatite. Linescans and elemental maps showed that type C material was present in areas which appeared dense and surrounded, or were adjacent to, more granular CaS‐containing material, and also occurred as spherical particles. The latter could be disintegrating calcium phosphate in the final stages of the resorption process.

Conclusions: CaS resorption in the human maxillary sinus is accompanied by CaP precipitation which may contribute to its biocompatibility and rapid replacement by bone.
Evaluation of the marginal precision of one‐piece complete arch titanium frameworks fabricated using five different methods for implant‐supported restorations
Authors: Torsello Ferruccio , Di Torresanto Vincenzo Mirisola , Ercoli Carlo , Cordaro Luca
Published: July 2008

Objective: The aim of the present work was to compare the marginal precision of titanium frameworks for a complete arch‐fixed prosthesis fabricated using five different methods.

Methods: A prospective study was designed. Fifteen titanium frameworks for totally edentulous upper or lower jaws, each supported by five to nine implants, were assigned to five study groups, so as to have three frameworks in each group for each technique: (1) lost wax technique frameworks, (2) cast titanium sovrastructures laser welded to prefabricated titanium copings, (3) Procera® Implant Bridge, (4) Cresco Ti System™ and (5) CAM StructSURE® Precision Milled Bar. The microgap between the framework and the shoulders of implant analogues was measured on the master cast with a stereomicroscope at a magnification of 100 × at four different locations, yielding a total of 364 data points on 91 implants. Data were analyzed using an ANOVA and a Tukey post hoc test (P=<0.05).

Results: The mean values for the microgap were 78 μm (SD±48) for lost wax technique frameworks, 33 μm (SD±19) for cast titanium sovrastructures laser welded to titanium copyings, 21 μm (SD±10) for the Procera® implant bridge, 18 μm (SD±8) for the Cresco Ti System™ and 27 μm (SD±15) for the CAM StructSURE®. The differences among the mean values were statistically significant (P<0.01 or P<0.05). The comparisons among groups 3, 4, and 5 and between groups 2 and 5 were not significant (P>0.05).

Conclusion: The computer‐aided procedures analyzed in the present study were able to produce a precision‐fitting framework, with no significant differences among them and, at the same time, showed a greater precision compared with the traditional casting methods or with the use of prefabricated titanium copings. However, it should be noted that, even if group 2 frameworks were not as accurate as groups 3 and 4, cast titanium sovrastructures laser welded to prefabricated titanium copings showed significantly better marginal precision than the frameworks produced with the lost wax technique.
Maxillary sinus floor elevation using a tissue‐engineered bone complex with OsteoBone™ and bMSCs in rabbits
Authors: Sun X.‐Juan , Zhang Z.‐Yuan , Wang S.‐Yi , Gittens S. A. , Jiang X.‐Quan , Chou L. Lee
Published: July 2008

Objectives: To evaluate the effects of maxillary sinus floor elevation by a tissue‐engineered bone complex with OsteoBone™ and bone marrow stromal cells (bMSCs) in rabbits.

Material and methods: Autologous bMSCs from adult New Zealand rabbits were cultured and combined with OsteoBone™ at a concentration of 20 × 106 cells/ml in vitro. Twenty‐four animals were used and randomly allocated into groups. For each time point, 16 maxillary sinus floor elevation surgeries were made bilaterally in eight animals and randomly repaired by bMSCs/material (i.e. OsteoBone™), material, autogenous bone and blood clot (n=4 per group). A polychrome sequential fluorescent labeling was also performed post‐operatively. The animals were sacrificed 2, 4 and 8 weeks after the procedure and evaluated histologically as well as histomorphometrically.

Results: New bone area significantly decreased from weeks 2 to 8 in the blood clot group, while bone area in the autologous bone reduced from weeks 4 to 8. In both groups, a significant amount of fatty tissue appeared at week 8. Accordingly, augmented height in both groups was also significantly decreased from weeks 2 to 8. The bone area in the material‐alone group as well as in the bMSCs/material group, on the other hand, increased over time. Significantly more newly formed bone area and mineralization was observed in the center of the raised space in the bMSCs/material group than in the material‐alone group. The augmented height was maintained in these two groups throughout the course of this study.

Conclusion: These results suggest that OsteoBone™ can successfully be used as a bone graft substitute and that the combination of this material with bMSCs can effectively promote new bone formation in sinus elevation.
Incidence of bacterial and fungal infections in newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukaemia patients younger than 65 yr treated with induction regimens including fludarabine: retrospective analysis of 224 cases
Authors: Malagola Michele , Peli Annalisa , Damiani Daniela , Candoni Anna , Tiribelli Mario , Martinelli Giovanni , Piccaluga Pier Paolo , Paolini Stefania , De Rosa Francesco , Lauria Francesco , Bocchia Monica , Gobbi Marco , Pierri Ivana , Zaccaria Alfonso , Zuffa Eliana , Mazza Patrizio , Priccolo Giancarla , Gugliotta Luigi , Bonini Alessandro , Visani Giuseppe , Skert Cristina , Bergonzi Cesare , Roccaro Aldo Maria , Filì Carla , Fanin Renato , Baccarani Michele , Russo Domenico
Published: July 2008

Objectives:  Infections are the major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). They primarily occur during the first course of induction chemotherapy and may increase the risk of leukaemia relapse, due to a significant delay in consolidation therapy. The intensification of induction chemotherapy and the use of non‐conventional drugs such as fludarabine are considered responsible for the increased risk of infections.

Methods:  In this study, we retrospectively analysed the infections occurred in 224 newly diagnosed AML patients ≤65 yr, consecutively treated between 1997 and 2002 with an induction regimen including fludarabine, arabinosyl cytosine and idarubicin, with or without etoposide (FLAI/FLAIE), in the context of three multicentric prospective trials (AML97, AML99, AML02).

Results:  During the induction phase, 146 (65%) patients experienced fever of undetermined origin (FUO), 30 (13%) and 47 (21%) patients had Gram‐negative and positive bacteremias, respectively, and 10 (4%) patients developed a probable/proven invasive fungal infection (IFI). The fatality rate for Gram‐negative, Gram‐positive bacteremias and probable/proven IFI was 10%, 8% and 60% respectively. During consolidation, 75 (35%) patients had FUO, 43 (20%) and 40 (19%) patients had Gram‐negative and positive bacteremias, respectively, and 5 (2%) patients developed a probable/proven IFI. The fatality rate for Gram‐negative, Gram‐positive bacteremias and probable/proven IFI was 14%, 5% and 80% respectively. Interestingly, the overall incidence of microbiologically documented infections during induction was 38% and the incidence of probable/proven IFIs during the induction/consolidation programme was 7%. No infections caused by viruses or opportunistic pathogens were observed neither during induction, nor during consolidation.

Conclusions:  These data, although retrospectively collected, suggest that fludarabine‐based chemotherapy is not associated with an increased incidence of infections, in particular IFIs, compared to conventional regimens commonly used for AML induction.
Is International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS) still standard in predicting prognosis in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome? External validation of the WHO Classification‐Based Prognostic Scoring System (WPSS) and comparison with IPSS
Authors: Park Min Jae , Kim Hee‐Jin , Kim Sun‐Hee , Kim Dong Hwan , Kim Seok Jin , Jang Jun Ho , Kim Kihyun , Kim Won Seog , Jung Chul Won
Published: July 2008

Background:  This study was undertaken to evaluate the prognostic value of the WHO Classification‐Based Prognostic Scoring System (WPSS) and to compare it with that of the International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS).

Patients and methods:  149 patients de novo diagnosed as having myelodysplastic syndrome between December 1994 and February 2007, were evaluated retrospectively.

Results:  WPSS presented an excellent method for risk‐stratifying patients into five subgroups, with different risks of death and leukaemic evolution. On univariate analysis, three components of WPSS – cytogenetic risk, WHO category and transfusion dependency – had good correlations with overall survival (OS) and time to leukaemic evolution (TTL). However, one component of IPSS – number of peripheral cytopenias – did not correlate with OS or TTL. WPSS could distinguish the truly low‐risk patients (very low) who had an excellent long‐term survival with rare leukaemic evolution, while IPSS could not. These patients should be managed with clinical observation and delayed treatment strategies. Furthermore, on multivariate analysis for OS, WPSS was found to be an independent prognostic factor for survival along with age [P = 0.04; hazard ratio (HR) = 1.71; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02–2.85] and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (P = 0.002; HR = 2.47; 95% CI 1.41–4.31). On the other hand, the prognostic significance of IPSS was not confirmed.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that the WPSS might be a more powerful predictor of prognosis than IPSS and that independent validation of several other, larger data sets should be necessary.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Genetic Predisposition to Idiopathic Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion: Contribution of Genetic Variations in IGF‐2 and H19 Imprinted Genes
Authors: Ostojić Saša , Pereza Nina , Volk Marija , Kapović Miljenko , Peterlin Borut
Published: July 2008

Problem  Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is a common clinical problem with a complex etiology of genetic and non‐genetic causes, which remains to be fully determined. IGF‐2 stimulates trophoblast invasion, proliferation and maturation of placenta, while H19 RNA suppresses growth. As genomic imprinting plays a critical role in the development of placenta and embryo, our aim was to evaluate the possible role of variations in IGF‐2 and H19 imprinted genes as factors of predisposition for RSA.

Method of study  A case–control study was conducted to determine the association between IGF‐2 and H19 gene polymorphisms and the susceptibility to RSA in 113 couples with RSA and 226 controls. PCR/RFLP were performed to analyze IGF‐2 ApaI and H19 HhaI polymorphisms.

Results  We found a statistically significant difference in the genotype frequency distribution of IGF‐2 ApaI polymorphism between males from couples with RSA and healthy males (χ2(2) = 45.12; P < 0.0001). There were no differences in the genotype and allele distribution of H19 polymorphism frequencies, or for the IGF‐2 ApaI polymorphism between female groups.

Conclusion  The presence of IGF‐2 ApaI polymorphism in partners of RSA women could affect IGF‐2 level of expression in placenta and embryo and represent a risk factor for RSA susceptibility.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Repertoire and Clonality of T‐Cell Receptor Beta Variable Genes Expressed in Endometrium and Blood T Cells of Patients with Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion
Authors: Dokouhaki Pouneh , Moghaddam Rosa , Rezvany MohammadReza , Ghassemi Jamileh , Novin Marefat Ghaffari , Zarnani Amirhassan , Akhondi Mohammah‐Mehdi , Ostadkarampour Mahyar , Mellstedt Håkan , Razavi Alireza , Jeddi‐Tehrani Mahmood
Published: July 2008

Problem  Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is a relatively common disorder, the underlying causes of which are thought to be immunological in most cases.

Method of study  Expression profile and clonality pattern of T‐cell receptor beta variable (TCRBV) genes in endometrium and blood of patients with RSA were investigated by semi‐quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) using BV gene‐specific primers. Relative expression of each BV family was determined and clonal expansion of the over‐expressed genes was assessed by analysis of CDR3 length polymorphism.

Results  Compared to blood, relative expression of four TCRBV genes was significantly higher in the endometrium of RSA group. Over‐expressed genes, except for TCRBV3, all had restricted and oligoclonal patterns of expression in the endometrium.

Conclusion  Endometrial T cells have a skewed TCRBV repertoire with restricted transcript heterogeneity, which is shared by both groups and minor variations observed in this pattern in RSA patients may reflect more recent and/or repeated exposure to nominal antigens or superantigens.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Association of Tumor Necrosis Factor‐Alpha and Interleukin‐10 Gene Polymorphisms in Iranian Patients with Pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Mirahmadian Mahroo , Kalantar Fathollah , Heidari Golnaz , Safdarian Lili , Mansouri Reza , Amirzargar Ali Akbar
Published: July 2008

Problem  Considering that certain cytokines may change during pre‐eclampsia (PE), because of functional polymorphisms in their genes, our purpose was to determine the association between tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) gene polymorphisms and development of PE.

Method of study  The genetic polymorphisms of TNF‐α and IL‐10 was studied by polymerase chain reaction‐sequence specific primers in the DNA of peripheral blood cell from 160 patients with PE and 100 healthy pregnant women.

Results  We found a significant difference between TNF‐α A allele (−308) and G allele (−238) in PE patients compared with those of the control groups. A significantly higher C/C genotype frequency of IL‐10 (−592 and −819) was observed in the PE patients than in the control groups. In addition, the frequencies of three common IL‐10 haplotypes (GCC, ACC, and ATA) did not show any significant difference between the study groups.

Conclusion  These findings would support the concept of contribution of TNF‐α and IL‐10 gene polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of PE in our population.
Structural requirements for antimicrobial versus chemoattractant activities for dermaseptin S9
Authors: Auvynet Constance , El Amri Chahrazade , Lacombe Claire , Bruston Francine , Bourdais Julie , Nicolas Pierre , Rosenstein Yvonne
Published: July 2008

Dermaseptin S9 (Drs S9), GLRSKIWLWVLLMIWQESNKFKKM, isolated from frog skin, does not resemble any of the cationic and amphipathic antimicrobial peptides identified to date, having a highly hydrophobic core sequence flanked at either side by cationic termini. Previous studies [Lequin O, Ladram A, Chabbert A, Bruston F, Convert O, Vanhoye D, Chassaing G, Nicolas P & Amiche M (2006) Biochemistry45, 468–480] demonstrated that this peptide adopted a non‐amphipathic α‐helical conformation in trifluoroethanol/water mixtures, but was highly aggregated in aqueous solutions and in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate micelles. Circular dichroism, FTIR and attenuated total reflectance FTIR spectroscopies, combined with a surface plasmon resonance study, show that Drs S9 forms stable and ordered β‐sheet aggregates in aqueous buffers or when bound to anionic or zwitterionic phospholipid vesicles. These structures slowly assembled into amyloid‐like fibrils in aqueous environments via spherical intermediates, as revealed by electron microscopy and Congo red staining. Drs S9 induced the directional migration of neutrophils, T lymphocytes and monocytes. Interestingly, the antimicrobial and chemotactic activities of Drs S9 are modulated by its amyloid‐like properties. Whereas spherical oligomers of Drs S9 exhibit antimicrobial activity, the soluble, weakly self‐associated forms of Drs S9 act on human leukocytes to promote chemotaxis and/or immunological response activation in the same range of concentration as amyloidogenic peptides Aβ(1–42), the most fibrillogenic isoform of amyloid beta peptides, and the prion peptide PrP(106–126).
Characterization of the sexual pattern of Parastacus varicosus (Crustacea: Decapoda: Parastacidae)
Authors: Da Silva‐Castiglioni Daiana , Greco Laura López , Oliveira Guendalina Turcato , Bond‐Buckup Georgina
Published: July 2008

Abstract. Freshwater crayfishes of the genus Parastacus are intersex, i.e., show characteristics of both sexes in the same individual; also, intersexuality has been documented in hermaphroditic species. The aim of this study was to analyze the gonads of Parastacus varicosus, characterizing its sexual pattern. The animals were collected at Cova do Touro, Gravataí, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Three sexual forms were identified: intersex females, intersex males, and transitional specimens showing an ovotestes gonad that could only be identified by means of histological analysis. All specimens had two pairs of gonopores and gonoducts. The oviduct had a wider diameter in females, whereas in males the vasa deferentia were more developed. Gonads were composed of two parallel structures located in the cephalothorax. Female gonads were classified into three stages. The presence of transitional specimens may indicate that sex change occurs, with protandric hermaphroditism, as observed in other species of Parastacus. Because previous studies had demonstrated that P. varicosus is a gonochoristic species in a population from Uruguay, the present study addressed the possibility that the sexual pattern depends on differences in environmental factors among populations. To improve understanding of evolution of hermaphroditism in these crustaceans, their reproductive dynamics should be studied, including identification of the factors stimulating male and female functions.
THIN‐LAYER INFRARED RADIATION DRYING OF RED PEPPER SLICES
Authors: NASIROGLU SAHIN , KOCABIYIK HABIB
Published: July 2008

Drying characteristics and changing of quality parameters of red pepper were determined experimentally as a function of infrared power (IP) and air velocity during infrared drying. Drying experiments of red pepper slices were carried out at three levels of IP (300, 400 and 500 W) and at three air velocities (1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 m/s). The drying time at air velocity from 1.0 to 2.0 m/s ranged between 314 and 455 min, 213 and 297 min and 196 and 230 min at IP of 300, 400 and 500 W, respectively. Drying rate increased with increasing IP and decreasing air velocity. All drying experiments had a falling rate of drying period. The specific energy consumption was varied between 4.62 and 7.59 kW·h/kg for all the drying conditions. Thickness change/shrinkage was found to be in the range of 0.162 and 0.263. The color parameters and the rehydration ratio were significantly influenced by IP and air velocity.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Drying is an important operation in red pepper processing. In open‐air condition, the drying time of red pepper is 8–10 days. Several researchers state that drying in open‐air conditions also has some disadvantages such as lack of ability to control the drying operation properly, long drying time, weather uncertainties, high labor costs, large area requirement, insect infestation and contamination with dust and other foreign materials. The results from this study can be used as reference for drying of red pepper in similar applications. The drying method proposed in this study decreased the time required for drying of red pepper, reduced the space needed for equipment and protected the product quality. Therefore, the drying technique proposed in this study can be a good alternative to other drying techniques available. Also, the proposed drying method can be used as a reference to drying applications of various vegetables and fruits.
CONVECTIVE DRYING OF PUMPKIN: INFLUENCE OF PRETREATMENT AND DRYING TEMPERATURE
Authors: PEREZ NELSON E. , SCHMALKO MIGUEL E.
Published: July 2008

The aim of this research was to study the influence of blanching as a pretreatment on the drying rate, color and rehydration rate of pumpkin slices (Cucurbita maxima) dried in a convective dryer at 50, 60 and 70C.

The different pretreatments did not modify drying time. The diffusion coefficient depended on temperature and moisture content, but not on pretreatments. It varied between 1.6 and 2.9 × 10−9 m2/s and activation energy was approximately 35.6 kJ/mol. The rehydration rate of the dried sample, which was found to be influenced by drying temperature but not by the pretreatments, reached about 2 kg water/kg dry solid in about 150 s in boiling water. Color parameters “L” and “b” were influenced by drying temperature and pretreatments. Parameter L varied between 36 and 53 and parameter b varied between 20 and 31. Samples dried at 70C without pretreatments presented color parameter values very similar to those of the fresh sample.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This work evaluates the pretreatment and drying conditions of pumpkin. Five parameters of the optimal product are considered: pretreatment time, drying time, temperature, color and rehydration rate of the product. With these results, drying of pumpkin can be carried out in industrial convective dryers and the dried product may be used in the preparation of soups, premixed foods, snacks, etc.
ADSORPTION CHARACTERISTICS OF CROCIN IN THE EXTRACT OF GARDENIA FRUITS (GARDENIA JASMINOIDES ELLIS) ON MACROPOROUS RESINS
Authors: YANG BIN , GAO YANXIANG , LIU XUAN , LI YUANYUAN , ZHAO JIAN
Published: July 2008

To study resin adsorptions and investigate the differences between processes in crude extracts and microfiltrates, the adsorption characteristics of crocin in the extract of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis on 10 macroporous styrene‐divinylbenzene (SDVB) resins were investigated. Ground gardenia fruit was extracted with water and the crude extract was partially purified by microfiltration. The crude extract and microfiltrate were mixed with the 10 resins until the adsorption of crocin reached equilibrium on resins. The adsorption followed the pseudo‐second‐order kinetics closely, but the data also fitted the first‐order and intraparticle diffusion models. Furthermore, the Freundlich isotherm was found suitable for describing the equilibrate adsorption data. XAD‐1180, HP20, HPD‐100A and AB‐8 stood out as the best performing resins in terms of their adsorptive capacities and selectivities for crocin. The thermodynamics of the adsorption process was shown to be spontaneous and exothermal in nature, and controlled by physical rather than chemical mechanisms. Adsorption with SDVB resins in conjunction with microfiltration was found to be an efficient process for the purification of crocin in gardenia extract.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Macroporous resins have been industrially applied in the recovery and purification of some products from plant extracts. However, there is a lack of understanding of the adsorption process and many of the applications are based on empirical data rather than on predicable models. Therefore, the development of reliable mathematical models that can accurately describe and predicate experimental data of adsorption would be extremely helpful in understanding the adsorption process as well as optimizing the design of adsorption systems.
HIGH HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE EXTRACTION OF SALIDROSIDE FROM RHODIOLA SACHALINENSIS
Authors: BI HUI‐MIN , ZHANG SHOU‐QIN , LIU CHANG‐JIAO , WANG CHANG‐ZHENG
Published: July 2008

A nonthermal process, high hydrostatic pressure (HHP), was used as a new extraction technique to obtain salidroside from Rhodiola sachalinensis. The leaching rates of salidroside were measured under different treatment conditions. When the material was treated under 500 MPa of hydrostatic pressure with 50 times of volume 60% (v/v) of ethanol solution as the extracting solvent, the leaching rate of salidroside was up to 0.401% in 3 min, while that of ultrasonic extraction was at 0.288% in 30 min and that of reflux extraction was at 0.302% in 120 min. The HHP extraction technique showed high efficiency in extracting salidroside at room temperature using moderate ethanol concentration.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Rhodiola is prevalently used as a safe and effective antifatigue drug and as an adaptogen around the world. But the common extraction methods used to yield commercial products are still traditional ones, which could easily lead some thermosensitive ingredients to lose their biologic activities. The nonthermal extraction method is the key point of the realization of herb modernization. The high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) technique can be operated at room temperature and can shorten processing time. The extract produced by the method has proved to be of higher extraction yield than traditional varieties. In addition, the HHP technique only consumes electric energy without exhaust emission, which is an environment‐friendly method. In the future, we will cooperate with those far‐seeing companies to achieve its industrialization. The annual sale of herbs in the whole world has reached 30 billion. We do not doubt the prospect of this technique.
OPTIMIZATION OF MANUFACTURE OF ALMOND PASTE COOKIES USING RESPONSE SURFACE METHODOLOGY
Authors: FARRIS STEFANO , PIERGIOVANNI LUCIANO
Published: July 2008

The response surface methodology (RSM) was used in the optimization of a modified recipe of almond paste cookies to pinpoint the best combination of the most important factors, in order to obtain an enhanced product with quality characteristics similar to the typical one. In this modified recipe, bamboo fiber and fructose were added as humectant and anticrystallizing agents to extend the shelf life of the cookies. Five quantitative controllable factors were selected for the experimental design: weight of bamboo fiber, fructose/saccharose ratio (F/S) and weight of egg white as ingredients, and baking time and temperature as process parameters. To assess the product quality, texture, moisture content and color were considered as dependent variables. The three second‐order polynomial models obtained by RSM and the subsequent optimization step indicated that a formulation with 28.95 g of fiber, 252.5 g of egg white, an F/S equal to 0.1, baking time and temperature of 21.5 min and 185.5C, respectively, represents the best recipe to manufacture a new product with quality attributes very similar to the typical one and, in addition, with an extended shelf life.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The importance of this work arises from the possibility to obtain new formulations by the enhancement of original recipes of products with a very limited shelf life using a statistical and designed approach. The achieved results led to a higher quality of these products over time, without changing the most important characteristics related to consumer acceptance.