bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rationale Erklärungen für Immobilienpreis-Bubbles: Die Auswirkungen von Risikoschocks auf die Wohnimmobilienpreisvolatilität und die Volatilität von Investitionen in Wohnimmobilien
Authors: Dorofeenko Viktor , Lee Gabriel S. , Salyer Kevin D.
Published: June 2011

The dramatic world-wide housing boom and bust cycles during the last few years are often described in the media as “bubbles” and were largely caused by irrational exuberance due to the liberalization of housing finance (i.e. credit market irregularities in the U.S.: the subprime markets and mortgage structured products). Following Dorofeenko et al (2011), this paper, however, argues that many of the business and housing stylized facts, especially, the U.S. housing price and residential investment volatilites can be explained by analyzing the role of uncertainty (risk) in the framework of a Real Business Cycle model that includes a housing sector with financial information frictions. Consequently, we show for the U.S., these large housing price and residential investment boom and bust cycles are at least were driven largely by economic fundamentals with irrationality (or psychology) at most in the background.
Perspektiven des deutschen Immobilienmarktes und wirtschaftspolitische Herausforderungen
Authors: Maennig Wolfgang , Ottmann Matthias
Published: June 2011

The current population forecasts bode ill for “the” real estate market in Germany: The regionally differing decreases in population will affect both the office and residential real estate market, however, not to the same extent. A reduction of property values with impacts on the economic activity and growth may follow. Due to potentially more restrictive technical requirements in order to slow down climate change investment losses in the real estate business could even be increased if no stronger international demand for property on the German real estate market can be generated through a higher level of transparency. An improved family policy, more incentives for internationals to migrate to Germany (which is where universities could play a significant role) as well as programs for the maintenance of existing facilities and their energy-efficient upgrading could be essential elements within a strategy for real estates.
Homeostatic NMDA receptor down‐regulation via brain derived neurotrophic factor and nitric oxide‐dependent signalling in cortical but not in hippocampal neurons
Authors: Sandoval Rodrigo , González Andrés , Caviedes Ariel , Pancetti Floria , Smalla Karl‐Heinz , Kaehne Thilo , Michea Luis , Gundelfinger Eckart D. , Wyneken Ursula
Published: June 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 118, 760–772.

Nitric oxide (NO) has been proposed to down‐regulate NMDA receptors (NMDA‐Rs) in a homeostatic manner. However, NMDA‐R‐dependent NO synthesis also can cause excitotoxic cell death. Using bicuculline‐stimulated hippocampal and cortical cell cultures, we have addressed the role of the brain‐derived neurotrophic factor‐NO pathway in NMDA‐R down‐regulation. This pathway protected cortical cells from NMDA‐induced death and led to NMDA‐R inhibition. In contrast, no evidence was gained for the presence of this protective pathway in hippocampal neurons, in which NMDA‐induced NO synthesis was confirmed to be toxic. Therefore, opposing effects of NO depended on the activation of different signalling pathways. The pathophysiological relevance of this observation was investigated in synaptosomes and post‐synaptic densities isolated from rat hippocampi and cerebral cortices following kainic acid‐induced status epilepticus. In cortical, but not in hippocampal synaptosomes, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor induced NO synthesis and inhibited NMDA‐R currents present in isolated post‐synaptic densities. In conclusion, we identified a NO‐dependent homeostatic response in the rat cerebral cortex induced by elevated activity. A low performance of this pathway in brain areas including the hippocampus may be related to their selective vulnerability in pathologies such as temporal lobe epilepsy.
Pharmacological modulation of chemokine receptor function
Authors: Scholten DJ , Canals M , Maussang D , Roumen L , Smit MJ , Wijtmans M , de Graaf C , Vischer HF , Leurs R
Published: June 2011

G protein‐coupled chemokine receptors and their peptidergic ligands are interesting therapeutic targets due to their involvement in various immune‐related diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, HIV‐1 infection and cancer. To tackle these diseases, a lot of effort has been focused on discovery and development of small‐molecule chemokine receptor antagonists. This has been rewarded by the market approval of two novel chemokine receptor inhibitors, AMD3100 (CXCR4) and Maraviroc (CCR5) for stem cell mobilization and treatment of HIV‐1 infection respectively. The recent GPCR crystal structures together with mutagenesis and pharmacological studies have aided in understanding how small‐molecule ligands interact with chemokine receptors. Many of these ligands display behaviour deviating from simple competition and do not interact with the chemokine binding site, providing evidence for an allosteric mode of action. This review aims to give an overview of the evidence supporting modulation of this intriguing receptor family by a range of ligands, including small molecules, peptides and antibodies. Moreover, the computer‐assisted modelling of chemokine receptor–ligand interactions is discussed in view of GPCR crystal structures. Finally, the implications of concepts such as functional selectivity and chemokine receptor dimerization are considered.

LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on the Molecular Pharmacology of G Protein‐Coupled Receptors (GPCRs). To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2012.165.issue‐6. To view the 2010 themed section on the same topic visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.2010.159.issue‐5/issuetoc
Combined effects of THC and caffeine on working memory in rats
Authors: Panlilio Leigh V , Ferré Sergi , Yasar Sevil , Thorndike Eric B , Schindler Charles W , Goldberg Steven R
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Cannabis and caffeine are two of the most widely used psychoactive substances. Δ9‐Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive constituent of cannabis, induces deficits in short‐term memory. Caffeine, a non‐selective adenosine receptor antagonist, attenuates some memory deficits, but there have been few studies addressing the effects of caffeine and THC in combination. Here, we evaluate the effects of these drugs using a rodent model of working memory.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Rats were given THC (0, 1 and 3 mg·kg−1, i.p.) along with caffeine (0, 1, 3 and 10 mg·kg−1, i.p.), the selective adenosine A1‐receptor antagonist CPT (0, 3 and 10 mg·kg−1) or the selective adenosine A2A‐receptor antagonist SCH58261 (0 and 5 mg·kg−1) and were tested with a delayed non‐matching‐to‐position procedure in which behaviour during the delay was automatically recorded as a model of memory rehearsal.

KEY RESULTS THC alone produced memory deficits at 3 mg·kg−1. The initial exposure to caffeine (10 mg·kg−1) disrupted the established pattern of rehearsal‐like behaviour, but tolerance developed rapidly to this effect. CPT and SCH58261 alone had no significant effects on rehearsal or memory. When a subthreshold dose of THC (1 mg·kg−1) was combined with caffeine (10 mg·kg−1) or CPT (10 mg·kg−1), memory performance was significantly impaired, even though performance of the rehearsal‐like pattern was not significantly altered.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Caffeine did not counteract memory deficits induced by THC but actually exacerbated them. These results are consistent with recent findings that adenosine A1 receptors modulate cannabinoid signalling in the hippocampus.

LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids in Biology and Medicine. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2012.165.issue‐8. To view Part I of Cannabinoids in Biology and Medicine visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2011.163.issue‐7
Unity and diversity in the insect photoperiodic mechanism*
Authors: SAUNDERS David S.
Published: June 2011

This review examines some of the models to account for time measurement in insect photoperiodism. It considers the supporting evidence for these models and the attempts to discriminate among them. Although hourglass timers may exist, it is suggested that most photoperiodic mechanisms, including many hourglass‐like timers, are circadian‐based, making Bünning's original hypothesis, that the circadian system somehow provides the essential “clockwork” for photoperiodic timing, the most persuasive unifying principle. The apparent diversity among modern species in their modes of time measurement is probably the result of differences between the underlying circadian systems that were adopted for seasonal night length measurement as the insects, or groups of insects, moved northwards into areas with a pronounced winter season. Photoperiodic time measurement, therefore, exhibits both unity (in their common circadian basis) and diversity in detail. Attention to this diversity may provide invaluable insights into the problem of photoperiodic time measurement at comparative, and molecular, levels.
Geographic distribution of phytoseiid mite species (Acari: Phytoseiidae) on crops in Okinawa, a subtropical area of Japan
Authors: OHNO Suguru , GOTOH Tetsuo , MIYAGI Akiko , GANAHA‐KIKUMURA Tomoko , KURIMA Miki , KIJIMA Keisuke , OOISHI Tsuyoshi
Published: June 2011

We extensively identified phytoseiid mites co‐occurring with spider mites on crops throughout the islands of Okinawa, southwestern Japan to obtain fundamental information for controlling spider mites in the area using natural enemies. Of the 19 species found, three were new to Japan and eight were new to Okinawa. Neoseiulus womersleyi was the most common species with respect to the distribution range. Following N. womersleyi, six species including Amblyseius eharai were common, whereas N. californicus was not, suggesting that the recent change in dominant species from N. womersleyi to N. californicus observed on the main islands of Japan had not happened in Okinawa. On one small island (Tarama Island) located in the southwestern part of Okinawa, N. womersleyi was not found, and instead N. longispinosus, which is morphologically similar to N. womersleyi and has not been found in Japan, occurred. This suggests interisland differences in the relative frequencies of N. womersleyi and N. longispinosus in Okinawa.
Risk Factors for Fibular Fracture after TPLO
Authors: Taylor Jim , Langenbach Anke , Marcellin‐Little Denis J.
Published: June 2011

Objective: To determine (1) risk factors for fibular fracture after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) and (2) if a single postoperative radiographic measurement or measurement ratio of the proximal tibial fragment can be used as a predictor for fibular fracture.

Study Design: Multivariate retrospective clinical study.

Animals: Dogs (n=326) with cranial cruciate ligament rupture that had TPLO (n=355).

Methods: Medical records (January 2004–November 2007) and radiographs of dogs that had TPLO were reviewed. TPLO plate type, distance between tibial plateau and proximal screw, proximodistal tibial plateau fragment length, tibial plateau width, the presence of a fibular drill hole filled with a screw or not, and fibular fractures were recorded.

Results: The odds of having a fibular fracture were 10 times greater in dogs with a fibular drill hole than in dogs without a drill hole. The odds of having a fibular fracture were 1.46 times greater for every 4.5 kg increase in body weight. Tibial plateau angle (TPA) at the time of reevaluation was larger than the postoperative TPA and TPA increase was larger in dogs with fibular drill holes than without (P<.01) and in dogs with fibular fractures than without (P<.01).

Conclusion: An unfilled fibular drill hole and increased body weight are risk factors for fibular fracture.
Ultrasound Characteristics of a Glomus Jugulare Tumor
Authors: Qi Zhen‐Hong , Jiang Yu‐Xin , Feng Feng , Dai Qing
Published: June 2011

A 33‐year‐old woman presented a chronic headache and sore throat on the right side of her body, continuous pulsatile tinnitus with decreasing hearing in the right ear, and recurrent bleeding from the right ear. Computer tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scan depicted a mass in the external ear canal and an enlarged right jugular bulb, which was revealed on duplex ultrasound in the upper portion of the right internal jugular vein. Surgical dissection of the tumor was performed. Pathological study revealed the mass was glomus jugulare tumor.
Brachium Pontis Stroke Revealing Neurofibromatosis Type‐2
Authors: Sreedher Gayathri , Panigrahy Ashok , Ramos‐Martínez Sheila Y. , Abdel‐Hamid Hoda Z. , Zuccoli Giulio
Published: June 2011

NF2 is an autosomal dominant disorder with neuroectodermal dysplasia. Most patients present with characteristic clinical tumors during or beyond the adolescent age group. The diagnosis is mainly clinical. Vasculopathy is rarely associated with NF2. Vascular complication as the presenting symptom in NF‐2 is unknown. We report a case of a 2‐year‐old child with no prior family history of neurofibromatosis presenting with ataxia and brain‐stem stroke.
Ectopic Pituitary Adenoma Associated with an Empty Sella: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kusano Yoshikazu , Horiuchi Tetsuyoshi , Oya Fusakazu , Miyaoka Yoshinari , Oguchi Kazuhiro , Takemae Toshiki , Hongo Kazuhiro
Published: June 2011

A case of ectopic pituitary adenoma in the sphenoid sinus associated with an empty sella is reported. The coexistence of an ectopic pituitary adenoma and an empty sella is quite rare. The diagnosis was made with an intraoperative finding of the intact dura mater of the sellar floor. In the present case, the hypointense line that coated the pituitary gland was clearly demonstrated on 3‐tesla T2‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging. The hypointense line is considered to be the pituitary capsule and was critical in diagnosing this rare entity.
Lonergan on the Person and the Economy: “reaching up to the mind of Aquinas,” in view of responding to Pope Leo XIII, vetera novis augere et perficere
Authors: Schepers Maurice
Published: June 2011

Given the reputation of Bernard Lonergan as a thinker, whose philosophical discourse is about intentionality and the seamless connection of cognitional theory, epistemology, and metaphysics, and whose self-confessed role in theology is to generate a method that meets the exigencies of a world that is on the move and culturally diverse, the article tells the story of his contribution to economic theory, and how this effort occupied both the beginning and the end of his mind's journey. There occurs, of course, the question about how these interests are related, and the key to the answer is found in the motto of Leo XIII, where the vetera imply especially Aquinas’ clear vision of the meaning of being human, and the nova include responses to the two-fold challenge emergent in both the object (to promote genuine development in the economic order) and the subject (to work out a coherent explanation of the structure of the human good).
Oral health related quality of life of edentulous patients after denture relining with a silicone‐based soft liner
Authors: Pisani Marina Xavier , Malheiros‐Segundo Antonio de Luna , Balbino Karina Lencioni , Souza Raphael de Freitas , Paranhos Helena de Freitas Oliveira , Lovato da Silva Cláudia Helena
Published: June 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00503.x

Oral health related quality of life of edentulous patients after denture relining with a silicone‐based soft liner

Background:  Knowledge of benefits caused by a treatment on quality of life is very relevant. Despite the wide use and acceptance of soft denture liners, it is necessary to evaluate the patient’s response about the use of these materials with regard to improvement in oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL).

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of denture relining in the OHRQoL of edentulous patients.

Materials and methods:  Thirty‐two complete denture wearers had their lower dentures relined with a silicone‐based material (Mucopren soft, Kettenbach, Germany) according to chairside procedures. OHRQoL was assessed before and after 3 months of relining by means of OHIP‐EDENT, and the median scores were compared by Wilcoxon test (p ≤ 0.05).

Results:  After 3 months of relining, participants reported significant improvement of their OHRQoL (p ≤ 0.01).

Conclusion:  Denture relining with a soft liner may have a positive impact on the perceived oral health of edentulous patients.
Anti-Infection Dip Suggestions for the Coloplast Titan Inflatable Penile Prosthesis in the Era of the Infection Retardant Coated Implant
Authors: Wilson Steven K. , Salem Emad A. , Costerton William
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Infection is the worst complication seen with inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP). Both the American Medical Systems (AMS) and Coloplast IPP have infection retardant coatings. AMS is coated at the factory with rifampicin and minocycline (InhibiZone). The Coloplast IPP has a hydrophilic coating covalently bonded to its components that will absorb any aqueous solution before implantation and provides increased surface lubricity to decrease bacterial adherence.

Aim

We tested several antibiotic dips comparing zones of inhibition (ZOI) against five commonly infecting bacteria with coated Coloplast implants. Results were compared with those ZOI created with strips of an AMS IPP precoated with InhibiZone.

Methods

Pieces of sterile Coloplast Titan IPP were dipped in (i) trimethoprim/polymixin B ophthalmic solution; (ii) trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole infusion solution; (iii) bacitracin; (iv) rifampicin/minocycline; and (v) rifampin/trimehtoprim/sulfamethoxazole. ZOI for the Titan strips and for AMS InhibiZone coated strips were tested against Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus lugdunensis, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas, and Enterococcus.

Main Outcome Measure

ZOIs of the Coloplast Titan for each of the medicated solutions were compared with ZOI created by undipped strips of a sterile InhibiZone coated IPP placed on plates of the identical bacteria.

Results

All dips except bacitracin showed ZOI ≥ InhibiZone (P ≥ 0.005) for most organisms. Because of broad-spectrum effectiveness, ease of handling, and cost, infusion vial of trimehtoprim/sulfamethoxazole seemed optimal at this time. If trimehtoprim/sulfamethoxazole is unavailable; the ZOI with Polytrim ophthalmic solution zones were almost as good.

Conclusions

The Coloplast strips when dipped in several solutions showed equal or significantly larger ZOI against commonly infecting organisms than the InhibiZone coated strips. At the present time using off the shelf trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole infusion solution seems optimum. The flexibility of choosing the drug eluting from the Coloplast device seems promising in the changing bacterial environment.
Unusual growth variants of Avibacterium paragallinarum
Authors: Blackall PJ , Christensen H , Bisgaard M
Published: June 2011

Two isolates of haemophilic bacteria originally isolated in the 1980s from chickens were re‐examined. The addition of a 10% sterile filtrate from an overnight culture of Staphylococcus epidermidis allowed growth of both isolates in solid and liquid media that were otherwise not capable of supporting the growth of these isolates. Using the modified media, genotypic and serotypic studies were performed, which confirmed both isolates to be Avibacterium paragallinarum, with one isolate being serovar A and the other serovar C. The unusual growth requirements of these two isolates reinforces the need for careful interpretation by diagnostic laboratories examining chickens showing signs of upper respiratory tract disease.
Small intestinal volvulus in a free‐ranging female dugong (Dugong dugon)
Authors: Gillespie A , Burgess E , Lanyon J , Owen H
Published: June 2011

An adult female dugong (Dugong dugon) was found dead and floating in Moreton Bay, Queensland, Australia. This animal was found to have a 360° mesenteric volvulus with infarction of the associated segment of small intestine, and fibrinous peritonitis. Mortality was attributed to the volvulus and its sequelae. The cause was not apparent on gross or histological examination.
Photodynamic Treatment of Chaoborus crystallinus Larvae with Chlorophyllin Induces Necrosis and Apoptosis
Authors: Wohllebe Stephanie , Ulbrich Claudia , Grimm Daniela , Pietsch Jessica , Erzinger Gilmar , Richter Roland , Lebert Michael , Richter Peter Rolf , Häder Donat‐Peter
Published: June 2011

Chlorophyllin kills mosquito larvae (Culex, Aedes) in the aquatic habitat at low concentrations via photodynamic reactions under irradiation. The effects of chlorophyllin were investigated at the cellular level using the transparent larvae of Chaoborus crystallinus as a model system. Their transparency enabled in situ fluorescence investigation, showing that chlorophyllin accumulates in the intestine of the larvae. Uptake of chlorophyllin at room temperature took about 2 h. The fluorescence signal peaked after 5 h of incubation. Chlorophyllin accumulates up to about 15 ng per larvae. The intestine of treated larvae was dissected and stained with several dyes (acridine orange, Hoechst 33342 and propidium iodide). Apoptosis and necrosis increased with higher concentrations of chlorophyllin (to a smaller extent in dark controls) and were elevated in irradiated samples. Single cells from treated larvae were isolated and subjected to Annexin V flow cytometry. The fraction of apoptotic and necrotic cells increased significantly at a high chlorophyllin concentration (21.4 mg L−1) and under intensive irradiation. The activity of caspases‐3, ‐8 and ‐9 as well as Bcl‐2 and cytochrome c was investigated by means of western blot analysis. The data suggest a possible chlorophyllin concentration‐dependent shift of the apoptotic pathway.
Detection of Altered Extracellular Matrix in Surface Layers of Unstable Carotid Plaque: An Optical Spectroscopy, Birefringence and Microarray Genetic Analysis
Authors: Korol Renee M. , Canham Peter B. , Liu Li , Viswanathan Kasinath , Ferguson Gary G. , Hammond Rob R. , Finlay Helen M. , Baker Henry V , Lopez Cecilia , Lucas Alexandra R.
Published: June 2011

Erosion and rupture of surface layers in atherosclerotic plaque can cause heart attack and stroke; however, changes in luminal surface composition are incompletely defined. Laser‐induced fluorescence spectroscopy (LIFS), with limited tissue penetration, was used to investigate the surface of unstable carotid plaque and correlated with microscopy, birefringence and gene expression. Arterial matrix collagens I, III and elastin were assessed in unstable plaques (n = 25) and reference left internal mammary arteries (LIMA, n = 10). LIFS in addition to selective histological staining with picrosirius red, Movat pentachrome and immunostaining revealed decreased elastin and increased collagen I and III (P < 0.05) in carotid plaque when compared with LIMA. Within plaque, collagen I was elevated in the internal carotid region versus the common carotid region. Polarized light microscopy detected layers of aligned collagen and associated mechanical rigidity of the fibrous cap. Microarray analysis of three carotid and three LIMA specimens confirmed up‐regulation of collagen I, III and IV, lysyl oxidase and MMP‐12. In conclusion, LIFS analysis coupled with microscopy revealed marked regional differences in collagen I, III and elastin in surface layers of carotid plaque; indicative of plaque instability. Birefringence measurements demonstrated mechanical rigidity and weakening of the fibrous cap with complementary changes in ECM gene expression.
Structural Reorganizations Control Intermolecular Conductance and Charge Trapping in Paraquat‐Tetraphenylborate Inverse Photochemical Cell
Authors: Lebedev Nikolai , Trammell Scott A. , Dressick Walter , Kedziora Gary S. , Griva Igor , Schnur Joel M.
Published: June 2011

Miniaturization of electronic devices to the level of single molecules requires detailed understanding of the mechanisms of their operation. One of the questions here is the identification of the role of structural alterations in charge separation and stabilization in photoactive complexes. To address this question, we calculate optimized molecular and electronic structures, and optical and vibrational spectra of l,l′‐dimethyl 4,4′‐bipyridinium—bis tetraphenylborate PQ(BPh4)2 complex ab initio using density functional theory approach and compare them with the experimentally observed UV–Vis and Raman spectra of the molecules in solid‐state films. The results indicate that the association of PQ and BPh4 leads to the formation of an internally ionized structure that is accompanied by the structural reorganization of both PQ (the twisting of pyridinium rings) and BPh4 (phenyl rings rotation) moieties. The quanta of light do not seem to be directly involved in the formation of this ionized structure, but provide energy for fast recombination of the separated charges between BPh4− and PQ2+. The high efficiency of the dark charge separation and the stabilization of separated charges in the complex permit the using of PQ(BPh4)2 in various charge‐transfer devices like molecular probes, photovoltaic devices or chemical memory units.
A UVC Device for Intra‐luminal Disinfection of Catheters: In Vitro Tests on Soft Polymer Tubes Contaminated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans
Authors: Bak Jimmy , Begovic Tanja , Bjarnsholt Thomas , Nielsen Anne
Published: June 2011

Bacterial colonization of central venous catheters (CVCs) causes severe complications in patients. As a result, developing methods to remove and prevent bacterial and fungal colonization of CVCs is imperative. Recently, we have demonstrated that disinfection by radiation of polymer tubes with UVC light is possible. In this paper we present dose–response results using a newly developed UVC disinfection device, which can be connected to a Luer catheter hub. The device was tested on soft polymer tubes contaminated with a pallet of microorganisms, including Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ca 103 CFU mL−1). The tubes were equipped with a modified catheter hub and interfaced to the disinfection device via a middle piece separating the disinfection device from the hub. The contamination lasted for 3 h prior to treatment to simulate an aseptic breach. Our results show UVC killing in a dose and time dependent manner, with no viable counts after 2 min of radiation for bacteria. Killing of C. albicans was obtained at >20 min in an UVC absorbing suspension. We believe our results to be transferable directly to the clinic, and we are currently working on a setup for clinical trial.
40Ar/39Ar Ages of the Da Lien Granite Related to the Nui Phao W Mineralization in Northern Vietnam
Authors: SANEMATSU Kenzo , ISHIHARA Shunso
Published: June 2011

40Ar/39Ar dating was conducted on the Da Lien granite related to greisen‐skarn type polymetallic (W‐CaF2‐Cu‐Bi‐Au) mineralization in Nui Phao, northern part of Vietnam in the South China Plate. Biotite and muscovite separates from the biotite‐muscovite granite and greisenized granite indicate four plateau ages: 82.2 ± 0.4 Ma, 82.8 ± 0.3 Ma, 81.5 ± 0.3 Ma and 82.5 ± 0.4 Ma. The plateau ages were not significantly influenced by excess 40Ar in dated minerals or by loss of radiogenic 40Ar due to hydrothermal activities. The results indicate that solidification of granite related to the polymetallic mineralization occurred in the Late Cretaceous between 82.8 Ma and 81.5 Ma.
Seizures in an Arabian foal due to suspected prolonged transient neonatal hypoparathyroidism
Authors: Schwarz B. , van den Hoven R.
Published: June 2011

This Case Report describes a 5‐week‐old male Arabian foal of Egyptian bloodline with generalised seizures due to hypocalcaemia. The laboratory changes in this foal were consistent with an abnormal regulation of calcium as occurs with hypoparathyroidism. Prolonged transient neonatal hypoparathyroidism as reported in man was suspected. The foal received oral calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation combined with the calcium sparing diuretic carbonic anhydrase inhibitor acetazolamide. Calcium concentrations increased gradually over 6 months. In Arabian foals, especially those of Egyptian bloodline suffering suspected juvenile epilepsy, hypocalcaemia should be ruled out as a cause of seizures.
A novel treatment for dynamic laryngeal collapse associated with poll flexion: The modified checkrein
Authors: FJORDBAKK C. T. , HOLCOMBE S. , FINTL C. , CHALMERS H. , STRAND E.
Published: June 2011

Reasons for performing the study:Dynamic laryngeal collapse (DLC) associated with poll flexion is a performance limiting dynamic upper airway disorder commonly diagnosed in Coldblooded trotters. An inspiratory obstruction occurs when affected horses are driven with tension on the reins, inducing poll flexion. To date, surgical treatment and conservative management have failed to improve racing performance in affected horses.

Objectives:To test the efficacy of an external device, the modified checkrein, in limiting poll flexion, diminishing laryngeal collapse and improving airway mechanics when horses are driven on a treadmill with tension on the reins and test the hypothesis that the modified checkrein will limit poll flexion thereby improving endoscopic appearance of the larynx and reduce airway obstruction in harness racehorses affected with DLC.

Methods:Fourteen Norwegian Coldblooded trotter (NCT) racehorses previously diagnosed with DLC associated with poll flexion exercised on a high‐speed treadmill at speeds that resulted in heart rate >200 beats/min. Upper airway videoendoscopy recordings, tracheal pressures and video recordings of the head and neck position were collected while horses exercised with the conventional checkrein on Day 1 and the modified checkrein on Day 2.

Results:The modified checkrein successfully limited poll flexion as measured by no change in head position parameters between phases of no rein tension and phases of rein tension. Endoscopic scores were significantly improved (arytenoids cartilage collapse P<0.0001; vocal fold collapse P<0.0001) and tracheal peak inspiratory pressures were significantly less negative (P = 0.0162) when horses were fitted with the modified checkrein compared to the conventional checkrein.

Conclusions and potential relevance:The modified checkrein successfully limited poll flexion and also prevented upper airway obstruction in NCT horses affected with DLC associated with poll flexion. The modified checkrein seems promising in offering a method of conservative management in harness racehorses affected with this disorder.
Intravenous technetium‐99m labelled PEG‐liposomes in horses: A safety and biodistribution study
Authors: UNDERWOOD C. , VAN EPS A. W. , ROSS M. W. , LAVERMAN P. , VAN BLOOIS L. , STORM G. , SCHAER T. P.
Published: June 2011

Reasons for performing study:Liposomes are phospholipid nanoparticles that extravasate at sites of increased vascular permeability. They have potential in equine medicine for targeted drug delivery and diagnostic imaging of infectious, inflammatory and neoplastic lesions.

Objectives:This study evaluates the safety and biodistribution of i.v. polyethyleneglycol(PEG) liposomes in normal horses.

Methods:PEG‐liposomes were prepared by the film hydration method and labelled using99mTc‐hexamethyl‐propylene‐amine‐oxime. A single dose of 0.24 µmol/kg bwt99mTc‐PEG‐liposomes and 2.4 µmol/kg bwt unlabelled PEG‐liposomes was administered to 10 conscious horses via i.v. infusion at a rate of 6 µmol/min for the first 15 min and 60 µmol/min thereafter. Clinical parameters, haematology, plasma biochemistry and serum complement activity were monitored serially. Scintigraphic imaging was performed at 1, 12 and 21 h post infusion (PI). Six horses were subjected to euthanasia at 24 h PI. The percentage injected dose per kilogram of tissue was calculated for multiple organs. Results were analysed using repeated measures ANOVA.

Results:Horses did not demonstrate adverse reactions during or after liposome infusion. There was a significant elevation in heart rate and respiratory rate at 20 and 25 min PI. No significant complement consumption was detected, although a trend for decreased total haemolytic complement values at 20 min PI was present. Scintigraphic studies revealed a prolonged vascular phase that lasted to 21 h PI, with a reproducible pattern of organ distribution. Biodistribution studies revealed the highest concentrations of radiopharmaceutical within the lung, kidney, liver and spleen.

Conclusions:Intravenous liposome administration appears to be safe in horses. When administered in combination with PEG‐liposomes,99mTc‐PEG‐liposomes have long circulating characteristics and a reproducible pattern of organ distribution in horses.

Potential relevance:Radiolabelled liposomes may be useful for detecting infection, inflammation and neoplasia in the horse. Liposomes have significant potential for targeted drug delivery in the horse. This study establishes the scintigraphic findings and tissue distribution of 99mTc‐PEG‐liposomes after i.v. administration in healthy horses.
Effects of acepromazine, butorphanol and buprenorphine on thermal and mechanical nociceptive thresholds in horses
Authors: LOVE E. J. , TAYLOR P. M. , MURRELL J. , WHAY H. R.
Published: June 2011

Reasons for performing study:To investigate the antinociceptive effects of buprenorphine administered in combination with acepromazine in horses and to establish an effective dose for use in a clinical environment.

Objectives:To evaluate the responses to thermal and mechanical stimulation following administration of 3 doses of buprenorphine compared to positive (butorphanol) and negative (glucose) controls.

Methods:Observer blinded, randomised, crossover design using 6 Thoroughbred geldings (3–10 years, 500–560 kg). Thermal and mechanical nociceptive thresholds were measured 3 times at 15 min intervals. Horses then received acepromazine 0.05 mg/kg bwt with one of 5 treatments i.v.: 5% glucose (Glu), butorphanol 100 µg/kg bwt (But) buprenorphine 5 µg/kg bwt (Bup5), buprenorphine 7.5 µg/kg bwt (Bup7.5) and buprenorphine 10 µg/kg bwt (Bup10). Thresholds were measured 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, 230 min, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 24 h post treatment administration. The 95% confidence intervals for threshold temperature (ΔT) for each horse were calculated and an antinociceptive effect defined as ΔT, which was higher than the upper limit of the confidence interval. Duration of thermal antinociception was analysed using a within‐subjects ANOVA and peak mechanical thresholds with a general linear model withpost hocTukey tests. Significance was set at P<0.05.

Results:Mean (± s.d.) durations of thermal antinociception following treatment administration were: Glu 0.5 (1.1), But 2.9 (2.0), Bup5 7.4 (2.3), Bup7.5 7.8 (2.7) and Bup10 9.4 (1.1) h. B5, B7.5 and B10 were significantly different from Glu and But. No serious adverse effects occurred, although determination of mechanical thresholds was confounded by locomotor stimulation.

Conclusions:Administration of acepromazine and all doses of buprenorphine produced antinociception to a thermal stimulus for significantly longer than acepromazine and either butorphanol or glucose.

Potential relevance:This study suggests that buprenorphine has considerable potential as an analgesic in horses and should be examined further under clinical conditions and by investigation of the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic profile.
Vibrio cholerae O1 Infection Induces Proinflammatory CD4+T-Cell Responses in Blood and Intestinal Mucosa of Infected Humans
Authors: Kuchta Alison , Rahman Taibur , Sennott Erica L. , Bhuyian Taufiqur R. , Uddin Taher , Rashu Rasheduzzaman , Chowdhury Fahima , Kahn Ashraf I. , Arifuzzaman Mohammad , Weil Ana A. , Podolsky Michael , LaRocque Regina C. , Ryan Edward T. , Calderwood Stephen B. , Qadri Firdausi , Harris Jason B.
Published: June 2011

Vibrio choleraeO1 is a noninvasive enteric pathogen and serves as a model for studies of mucosal immunity. Although symptomaticV. choleraeinfection induces durable protection against subsequent disease, vaccination with oral killed whole-cellV. choleraestimulates less long-lasting protection against cholera. In this study, we demonstrated that cholera induces an early proinflammatory cellular immune response that results in priming of Th1- and Th17-type cytokine responses toex vivoantigenic stimulation and an increase in the ratio of Th1 to Th2 CD4+T-cell responses. Comparable priming of Th1 and Th17 responses, with an increased ratio of Th1 to Th2 CD4+T-cell responses, was not observed in subjects who received two doses of the oral cholera vaccine Dukoral (a whole-cell cholera toxin B subunit containing [WC-CTB] vaccine). These findings suggest that naturalV. choleraeinfection induces an early, proinflammatory cellular immune response, despite the apparent lack of clinical signs of inflammation. The failure of the WC-CTB vaccine to activate equivalent, CD4+T-cell responses is a potential explanation for the shorter duration of protection following immunization with this vaccine. Additional studies are needed to determine whether these early T-cell-mediated events predict the subsequent duration of immunologic memory.
Evaluation of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry for Rapid Identification of Beta-Hemolytic Streptococci
Authors: Cherkaoui Abdessalam , Emonet Stéphane , Fernandez José , Schorderet Didier , Schrenzel Jacques
Published: June 2011

This study was undertaken to evaluate matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for the rapid identification of beta-hemolytic streptococci. We compared Bruker Biotyper 2.0 with Vitek2 coupled to the agglutination test. MALDI-TOF MS analysis of 386 beta-hemolytic streptococcal isolates yielded high-confidence identification to the species level for all 386 isolates. The Vitek2 gave high-confidence identification to the species level for 88% of
Streptococcus agalactiae
isolates (
n
= 269/306), 92% of
Streptococcus pyogenes
isolates (
n
= 48/52), and 39% of isolates of
Streptococcus dysgalactiae
serogroups C and G (
n
= 11/28).
Prosthetic Joint Infection Caused by Mycobacterium alvei in an Elderly Patient
Authors: Lee Chen-Hsiang , You Huey-Ling , Wang Jun-Wen , Tang Ya-Fen , Liu Jien-Wei
Published: June 2011

We report the first case of prosthetic joint infection caused by
Mycobacterium alvei
, which was identified by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism and verified by analysis of nucleotide sequences of its amplified 16S ribosomal DNA. The pathogen was susceptible to linezolid, amikacin, ciprofloxacin, tigecycline, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. The clinical implications are discussed.
Wide Dispersion of ST175 Clone despite High Genetic Diversity of Carbapenem-Nonsusceptible Pseudomonas aeruginosa Clinical Strains in 16 Spanish Hospitals
Authors: García-Castillo María , del Campo Rosa , Morosini María Isabel , Riera Elena , Cabot Gabriel , Willems Rob , van Mansfeld Rosa , Oliver Antonio , Cantón Rafael
Published: June 2011

During the COMParative Activity of Carbapenems Testing (COMPACT) surveillance study, 448
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
clinical isolates were obtained from 16 Spanish hospitals. Nonsusceptibility (EUCAST breakpoints) to imipenem (35%), meropenem (33%), and/or doripenem (33%) was observed with 175 isolates (39%). Simultaneous resistance to these three drugs was observed with 126 of the 175 isolates (72%). Except for colistin, high resistance rates were observed among noncarbapenem antibiotics. Clonal relatedness was investigated by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) with SpeI, discriminating 68 patterns. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) was performed on 84 isolates representing different PFGE types and all participating hospitals. Thirty-nine sequence types (STs) could be distinguished, and of these, ST175 (48 isolates, 10 hospitals), ST646 (16 isolates, 4 hospitals), ST532 (13 isolates, 3 hospitals), and ST111 (13 isolates, 7 hospitals) were the most frequently encountered. Minimum-spanning tree analysis confirmed a wide dissemination of different clones among participant hospitals, particularly ST175. PFGE pattern comparison within the four most frequent STs revealed that ST175 isolates were relatively uniform, while ST646, ST532, and ST111 isolates were highly diverse, with almost every isolate belonging to a unique pulsotype, even when originating from the same center. The population of carbapenem-nonsusceptible
P. aeruginosa
isolates from 16 hospitals is highly diverse, with one ST (ST175) representing a highly conserved clone disseminated in 10 of the 16 participant hospitals. This ST175 clone should be added to the list of
P. aeruginosa
clones at high risk for epidemic spread, such as the Liverpool, Manchester, and Melbourne clones previously found in cystic fibrosis patients and ST235 in the nosocomial setting.
Comparative Evaluation of Three Automated Systems for DNA Extraction in Conjunction with Three Commercially Available Real-Time PCR Assays for Quantitation of Plasma Cytomegalovirus DNAemia in Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant Recipients
Authors: Bravo Dayana , Clari María Ángeles , Costa Elisa , Muñoz-Cobo Beatriz , Solano Carlos , José Remigia María , Navarro David
Published: June 2011

Limited data are available on the performance of different automated extraction platforms and commercially available quantitative real-time PCR (QRT-PCR) methods for the quantitation of cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA in plasma. We compared the performance characteristics of the Abbott mSample preparation system DNA kit on the m24 SP instrument (Abbott), the High Pure viral nucleic acid kit on the COBAS AmpliPrep system (Roche), and the EZ1 Virus 2.0 kit on the BioRobot EZ1 extraction platform (Qiagen) coupled with the Abbott CMV PCR kit, the LightCycler CMV Quant kit (Roche), and the Q-CMV complete kit (Nanogen), for both plasma specimens from allogeneic stem cell transplant (Allo-SCT) recipients (
n
= 42) and the OptiQuant CMV DNA panel (AcroMetrix). The EZ1 system displayed the highest extraction efficiency over a wide range of CMV plasma DNA loads, followed by the m24 and the AmpliPrep methods. The Nanogen PCR assay yielded higher mean CMV plasma DNA values than the Abbott and the Roche PCR assays, regardless of the platform used for DNA extraction. Overall, the effects of the extraction method and the QRT-PCR used on CMV plasma DNA load measurements were less pronounced for specimens with high CMV DNA content (>10,000 copies/ml). The performance characteristics of the extraction methods and QRT-PCR assays evaluated herein for clinical samples were extensible at cell-based standards from AcroMetrix. In conclusion, different automated systems are not equally efficient for CMV DNA extraction from plasma specimens, and the plasma CMV DNA loads measured by commercially available QRT-PCRs can differ significantly. The above findings should be taken into consideration for the establishment of cutoff values for the initiation or cessation of preemptive antiviral therapies and for the interpretation of data from clinical studies in the Allo-SCT setting.
Rapid Genoserotyping Tool for Classification of Salmonella Serovars
Authors: Franklin Kristyn , Lingohr Erika J. , Yoshida Catherine , Anjum Muna , Bodrossy Levente , Clark Clifford G. , Kropinski Andrew M. , Karmali Mohamed A.
Published: June 2011

We have developed a
Salmonella
genoserotyping array (SGSA) which rapidly generates an antigenic formula consistent with the White-Kauffmann-Le Minor scheme, currently the gold standard for
Salmonella
serotyping. A set of 287 strains representative of 133
Salmonella
serovars was assembled to validate the array and to test the array probes for accuracy, specificity, and reproducibility. Initially, 76 known serovars were utilized to validate the specificity and repeatability of the array probes and their expected probe patterns. The SGSA generated the correct serovar designations for 100% of the known subspecies I serovars tested in the validation panel and an antigenic formula consistent with that of the White-Kauffmann-Le Minor scheme for 97% of all known serovars tested. Once validated, the SGSA was assessed against a blind panel of 100
Salmonella enterica
subsp. I samples serotyped using traditional methods. In summary, the SGSA correctly identified all of the blind samples as representing
Salmonella
and successfully identified 92% of the antigens found within the unknown samples. Antigen- and serovar-specific probes, in combination with a
pepT
PCR for confirmation of
S. enterica
subsp. Enteritidis determinations, generated an antigenic formula and/or a serovar designation consistent with the White-Kauffmann-Le Minor scheme for 87% of unknown samples tested with the SGSA. Future experiments are planned to test the specificity of the array probes with other
Salmonella
serovars to demonstrate the versatility and utility of this array as a public health tool in the identification of
Salmonella
.
Hepatitis C Virus Stimulates the Phosphatidylinositol 4-Kinase III Alpha-Dependent Phosphatidylinositol 4-Phosphate Production That Is Essential for Its Replication
Authors: Berger Kristi L. , Kelly Sean M. , Jordan Tristan X. , Tartell Michael A. , Randall Glenn
Published: June 2011

Phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase III alpha (PI4KA) is an essential cofactor of hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication. We initiated this study to determine whether HCV directly engages PI4KA to establish its replication. PI4KA kinase activity was found to be absolutely required for HCV replication using a small interfering RNA transcomplementation assay. Moreover, HCV infection or subgenomic HCV replicons produced a dramatic increase in phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate (PI4P) accumulation throughout the cytoplasm, which partially colocalized with the endoplasmic reticulum. In contrast, the majority of PI4P accumulated at the Golgi bodies in uninfected cells. The increase in PI4P was not observed after infection with UV-inactivated HCV and did not reflect changes in PI4KA protein or RNA abundance. In an analysis of U2OS cell lines with inducible expression of the HCV polyprotein or individual viral proteins, viral polyprotein expression resulted in enhanced cytoplasmic PI4P production. Increased PI4P accumulation following HCV protein expression was precluded by silencing the expression of PI4KA, but not the related PI4KB. Silencing PI4KA also resulted in aberrant agglomeration of viral replicase proteins, including NS5A, NS5B, and NS3. NS5A alone, but not other viral proteins, stimulated PI4P production
in vivo
and enhanced PI4KA kinase activity
in vitro
. Lastly, PI4KA coimmunoprecipitated with NS5A from infected Huh-7.5 cells and from dually transfected 293T cells. In sum, these results suggest that HCV NS5A modulation of PI4KA-dependent PI4P production influences replication complex formation.