bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FEASIBILITY FOR MAPPING CARTILAGE T1 RELAXATION TIMES IN THE DISTAL METACARPUS3/METATARSUS3 OF THOROUGHBRED RACEHORSES USING DELAYED GADOLINIUM‐ENHANCED MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING OF CARTILAGE (dGEMRIC): NORMAL CADAVER STUDY
Authors: Carstens Ann , Kirberger Robert M. , Velleman Mark , Dahlberg Leif E. , Fletcher Lizelle , Lammentausta Eveliina
Published: April 2013

Osteoarthritis of the metacarpo/metatarsophalangeal joints is one of the major causes of poor performance in horses. Delayed gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of cartilage (dGEMRIC) may be a useful technique for noninvasively quantifying articular cartilage damage in horses. The purpose of this study was to describe dGEMRIC characteristics of the distal metacarpus3/metatarsus3 (Mc3/Mt3) articular cartilage in 20 cadaver specimens collected from normal Thoroughbred horses. For each specimen, T1 relaxation time was measured from scans acquired precontrast and at 30, 60, 120, and 180 min post intraarticular injection of Gd‐DTPA2‐ (dGEMRIC series). For each scan, T1 relaxation times were calculated using five regions of interest (sites 1–5) in the cartilage. For all sites, a significant decrease in T1 relaxation times occurred between precontrast scans and 30, 60, 120, and 180 min scans of the dGEMRIC series (P < 0.0001). A significant increase in T1 relaxation times occurred between 60 and 180 min and between 120 and 180 min post Gd injection for all sites. For sites 1–4, a significant increase in T1 relaxation time occurred between 30 and 180 min postinjection (P < 0.05). Sites 1–5 differed significantly among one another for all times (P < 0.0001). Findings from this cadaver study indicated that dGEMRIC using intraarticular Gd‐DTPA2‐ is a feasible technique for measuring and mapping changes in T1 relaxation times in equine metacarpo/metatarsophalangeal joint cartilage. Optimal times for postcontrast scans were 60–120 min. Future studies are needed to determine whether these findings are reproducible in live horses.
Resistance levels of sulfonylurea‐resistant Schoenoplectus juncoides (Roxb.) Palla with various Pro197 mutations in acetolactate synthase to imazosulfuron, bensulfuron‐methyl, metsulfuron‐methyl and imazaquin‐ammonium
Authors: Sada Yoshinao , Ikeda Hajime , Kizawa Satoru
Published: April 2013

An investigation, using herbicidal pot tests in a greenhouse condition, was conducted to determine the whole‐plant dose–response relationships to several acetolactate synthase (ALS)‐inhibiting herbicides of sulfonylurea (SU)‐resistant Schoenoplectus juncoides with various Pro197 mutations in ALS that was collected from Japanese rice paddy fields. All the tested SU‐resistant accessions with a Pro197 mutation were highly resistant to two commonly used SU herbicides (imazosulfuron and bensulfuron‐methyl), but were much less resistant to another SU herbicide, metsulfuron‐methyl, and were substantially not resistant to imazaquin‐ammonium. These cross‐resistance patterns have been known previously in fragments of S. juncoides and other weed species and were comprehensively confirmed in this study with a whole set of Pro197 mutations. The analyses of resistance levels, based on ED90 values, newly showed that different accessions with a common amino acid substitution in ALS1 showed similar responses to these herbicides (confirmed with four amino acid substitutions), that the rankings of resistance levels that were conferred by various Pro197 mutations in ALS1 differed among the SU herbicides and that the resistance levels of the ALS2‐mutated accessions were higher than, lower than or similar to those of the corresponding ALS1‐mutated accessions, depending on the compared pair, but the deviation patterns were generally similar among the SU herbicides in each compared pair. The final finding might suggest that the abundance of ALS2 is not as stable as that of ALS1. In addition, as a result of these new findings, together with expected further research, a suggested possibility is that substituting amino acids at Pro197 generally could be estimated by plotting each accession's ED90 values of imazosulfuron and bensulfuron‐methyl in a two‐dimensional graph.
Bond Graph Modeling of a Two-Stage Pressure Relief Valve
Authors: Gad Osama
Published: April 2013

This study examined the use of bond graphs for the modeling and simulation of a fluid power system component. A new method is presented for creating the bond graph model, based upon a previously developed mathematical model. A nonlinear dynamic bond graph model for a two-stage pressure relief valve has been developed in this paper. Bond graph submodels were constructed considering each element of the studied valve assembly. The overall bond graph model of the valve was developed by combining these submodels using junction structures. Causality was then assigned in order to obtain a computational model, which could be simulated. The simulation results of the causal bond graph model were compared with those of a mathematical model, which had been also developed in this paper based on the same assumptions. The results were found to correlate very well both in the shape of the curves, magnitude, and response times. The causal bond graph model was verified experimentally in the dynamic mode of operation. As a result of comparison, bond graphs can quickly and accurately model the dynamics in a fluid power control system component. During the simulation study, it was found that nonlinearity occur due to three factors: changes in pressure, which cause nonlinear velocity changes of the flow rate; changes in the throttling area of the valve restriction, which usually changes nonlinearly; and changes in the discharge coefficient of the throttling area of the valve restriction, which does not remain constant.
The Concept of Physical Metric in the Thermomechanical Modeling of Phase Transformations With Emphasis on Shape Memory Alloy Materials
Authors: Panoskaltsis Vassilis P. , Polymenakos Lazaros C. , Soldatos Dimitris
Published: April 2013

In this work we derive a new version of generalized plasticity, suitable to describe phase transformations. In particular, we present a general multi surface formulation of the theory which is capable of describing the multiple and interacting loading mechanisms, which occur during phase transformations. The formulation relies crucially on the consideration of the intrinsic material (“physical”) metric as a primary internal variable and does not invoke any decomposition of the kinematical quantities into elastic and inelastic (transformation induced) parts. The new theory, besides its theoretical interest, is also important for application purposes such as the description and the prediction of the response of shape memory alloy materials. This is shown in the simplest possible setting by the introduction of a material model. The ability of the model in simulating several patterns of the experimentally observed behavior of these materials such as the pseudoelastic phenomenon and the shape memory effect is assessed by representative numerical examples.
Calling In the Clean-Up Crew
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: April 2013

Dying cells release chemotactic cytokines that attract phagocytes.
Remaining Active in Endosomes
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: April 2013

Agonist-bound β
2
-adrenergic receptors in endosomes continue to trigger the production of cAMP.
Identification and Characterization of a Novel HIV-1 Nucleotide-Competing Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor Series
Authors: Rajotte D. , Tremblay S. , Pelletier A. , Salois P. , Bourgon L. , Coulombe R. , Mason S. , Lamorte L. , Sturino C. F. , Bethell R.
Published: April 2013

Several groups have recently reported on the identification of nucleotide-competing reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NcRTIs), a new class of RT inhibitors. NcRTIs reversibly inhibit binding of the incoming nucleotide to the RT active site but do not act as chain terminators, unlike the nucleos(t)ide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) class. We identified a novel benzo[4,5]furo[3,2,
d
]pyrimidin-2-one NcRTI chemical series. Structure-activity relationship evaluation of this series with both RT and viral replication assays led to the identification of compound A, a new NcRTI. Compound A inhibited HIV-1 RT in a primer extension assay (50% inhibitory concentration, 2.6 nM) but had no measurable activity against human DNA polymerase γ at 10 μM. It potently inhibited HIV-1 replication
in vitro
(50% effective concentration, 1.5 nM). The antiviral potency of compound A was unaffected by the presence of nonnucleotide RT inhibitor (NNRTI) mutations tested (L100I, K103N/Y181C, V106A, or Y188L). Notably, viruses encoding K65R were hypersusceptible to inhibition by compound A. Compound A also retained full activity against viruses encoding M184V.
In vitro
selection for resistant virus to compound A led to the selection of a single substitution within RT: W153L. A recombinant virus encoding the RT W153L was highly resistant to compound A (fold change, 160). W153 is a highly conserved residue in HIV RT and has not been previously associated with drug resistance. In summary, a novel NcRTI series with optimized antiviral activity, minimal cross-resistance to existing RT inhibitor classes, and a distinct resistance profile has been discovered. These results further establish NcRTIs as an emerging class of antiretroviral agents.
Kinetic and Structural Analysis for Potent Antifolate Inhibition of Pneumocystis jirovecii, Pneumocystis carinii, and Human Dihydrofolate Reductases and Their Active-Site Variants
Authors: Cody Vivian , Pace Jim , Queener Sherry F. , Adair Ona O. , Gangjee Aleem
Published: April 2013

A major concern of immunocompromised patients, in particular those with AIDS, is susceptibility to infection caused by opportunistic pathogens such as
Pneumocystis jirovecii
, which is a leading cause of pneumonia in immunocompromised patients. We report the first kinetic and structural data for 2,4-diamino-6-[(2′,5′-dichloro anilino)methyl]pyrido[2,3-
d
]pyrimidine (OAAG324), a potent inhibitor of dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) from
P. jirovecii
(pjDHFR), and also for trimethoprim (TMP) and methotrexate (MTX) with pjDHFR,
Pneumocystis carinii
DHFR (pcDHFR), and human DHFR (hDHFR). OAAG324 shows a 9.0-fold selectivity for pjDHFR (

K
i

, 2.7 nM) compared to its selectivity for hDHFR (

K
i

, 24.4 nM), whereas there is only a 2.3-fold selectivity for pcDHFR (

K
i

, 6.3 nM). In order to understand the determinants of inhibitory potency, active-site mutations of pj-, pc-, and hDHFR were explored to make these enzymes more like each other. The most unexpected observations were that the variant pcDHFR forms with K37Q and K37Q/F69N mutations, which made the enzyme more like the human form, also made these enzymes more sensitive to the inhibitory activity of OAAG324, with

K
i

values of 0.26 and 0.71 nM, respectively. A similar gain in sensitivity was also observed for the hDHFR N64F variant, which showed a lower

K
i

value (0.58 nM) than native hDHFR, pcDHFR, or pjDHFR. Structural data are reported for complexes of OAAG324 with hDHFR and its Q35K and Q35S/N64F variants and for the complex of the K37S/F69N variant of pcDHFR with TMP. These results provide useful insight into the role of these residues in the optimization of highly selective inhibitors of DHFR against the opportunistic pathogen
P. jirovecii
.
Efficacy and Safety of Liposomal Clarithromycin and Its Effect on Pseudomonas aeruginosa Virulence Factors
Authors: Alhajlan Mai , Alhariri Moayad , Omri Abdelwahab
Published: April 2013

We investigated the efficacy and safety of liposomal clarithromycin formulations with different surface charges against clinical isolates of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
from the lungs of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. The liposomal clarithromycin formulations were prepared by the dehydration-rehydration method, and their sizes were measured using the dynamic-light-scattering technique. Encapsulation efficiency was determined by microbiological assay, and the stabilities of the formulations in biological fluid were evaluated for a period of 48 h. The MICs and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of free and liposomal formulations were determined with
P. aeruginosa
strains isolated from CF patients. Liposomal clarithromycin activity against biofilm-forming
P. aeruginosa
was compared to that of free antibiotic using the Calgary Biofilm Device (CBD). The effects of subinhibitory concentrations of free and liposomal clarithromycin on bacterial virulence factors and motility on agar were investigated on clinical isolates of
P. aeruginosa
. The cytotoxicities of the liposome preparations and free drug were evaluated on a pulmonary epithelial cell line (A549). The average diameter of the formulations was >222 nm, with encapsulation efficiencies ranging from 5.7% to 30.4%. The liposomes retained more than 70% of their drug content during the 48-h time period. The highly resistant strains of
P. aeruginosa
became susceptible to liposome-encapsulated clarithromycin (MIC, 256 mg/liter versus 8 mg/liter;
P
< 0.001). Liposomal clarithromycin reduced the bacterial growth within the biofilm by 3 to 4 log units (
P
< 0.001), significantly attenuated virulence factor production, and reduced bacterial twitching, swarming, and swimming motilities. The clarithromycin-entrapped liposomes were less cytotoxic than the free drug (
P
< 0.001). These data indicate that our novel formulations could be a useful strategy to enhance the efficacy of clarithromycin against resistant
P. aeruginosa
strains that commonly affect individuals with cystic fibrosis.
Comparative Activities of Telavancin Combined with Nafcillin, Imipenem, and Gentamicin against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Leonard Steven N. , Supple Megan E. , Gandhi Ronak G. , Patel Meghna D.
Published: April 2013

Beta-lactams enhance the killing activity of vancomycin. Due to structural and mechanistic similarities between vancomycin and telavancin, we investigated the activity of telavancin combined with nafcillin and imipenem compared to the known synergistic combination of telavancin and gentamicin. Thirty strains of
Staphylococcus aureus
, 10 methicillin-susceptible
S. aureus
(MSSA), 10 methicillin-resistant
S. aureus
(MRSA), and 10 heterogeneously vancomycin-intermediate
S. aureus
(hVISA), were tested for synergy by time-kill methodology. Six strains (2 each of MSSA, MRSA, and hVISA) were further evaluated in an
in vitro
pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model with simulated regimens of 10 mg/kg of body weight of telavancin once daily alone and combined with 2 g nafcillin every 4 h, 500 mg imipenem every 6 h, or 5 mg/kg gentamicin once daily over 72 h. In the synergy test, 67% of strains displayed synergy with the combination of telavancin and gentamicin, 70% with telavancin and nafcillin, and 63% with telavancin and imipenem. In the PK/PD model, the activities of all three combinations against MRSA and hVISA were superior to all individual drugs alone (
P
≤ 0.002) and were similar to each other (
P
≥ 0.187). The activities of all three combinations against MSSA were generally similar to each other except for one strain where the combination of telavancin and imipenem was superior to all other regimens (
P
≤ 0.011). The activity of the combination of telavancin and beta-lactam agents was similar to that of telavancin and gentamicin against
S. aureus
, including resistant strains. Because beta-lactam combinations are less likely to be nephrotoxic than telavancin plus gentamicin, these beta-lactam combinations may have clinical utility.
Safety and Tolerability of Luliconazole Solution 10-Percent in Patients with Moderate to Severe Distal Subungual Onychomycosis
Authors: Jones T. , Tavakkol A.
Published: April 2013

The study objective was to evaluate the safety, tolerability, systemic exposure, and pharmacokinetics (PK) of 10% luliconazole solution (luliconazole) when topically applied once daily to all 10 toenails and periungual areas in patients with moderate to severe distal subungual onychomycosis. In this single-center, open-label study, 24 patients applied 20 mg/ml of luliconazole (twice the clinical dose) for 29 days with a 7-day follow-up. Complete PK profiles were determined on days 1, 8, 15, and 29. Safety/tolerability assessments included application site reactions, adverse events, vital signs, clinical laboratory findings, and electrocardiograms. Mean luliconazole plasma concentrations remained around the lower limit of quantitation (0.05 ng/ml) and were comparable on days 8, 15, and 29 (range, 0.063 to 0.090 ng/ml), suggesting steady state occurred by day 8. Every patient had undetectable plasma luliconazole levels for at least 11% of the time points, and 12 of the 24 patients had undetectable levels for at least 70% of the time points. The maximum plasma concentration of luliconazole (Cmax) observed in any patient was 0.314 ng/ml and the maximum area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 h (AUC0–24) was 4.34 ng · h/ml. Five patients (21%) had measureable luliconazole levels in the plasma 7 days after the last dose. The median concentration of luliconazole in the nail at this time point was 34.65 mg/g (from 42 of 48 collected toenail samples). There was one mild incidence of skin erythema on day 5 that resolved on day 8, there were no reports of drug-induced systemic side effects, and there was no evidence of QT prolongation. Luliconazole, when applied once daily to all 10 fungus-infected toenails for 29 days, is generally safe and well tolerated and results in significant accumulation of drug in the nail. Systemic exposure is very low, with no evidence of drug accumulation.
Candida albicans-Staphylococcus aureus Polymicrobial Peritonitis Modulates Host Innate Immunity
Authors: Peters Brian M. , Noverr Mairi C.
Published: April 2013

Despite advances in medical device fabrication and antimicrobial treatment therapies, fungal-bacterial polymicrobial peritonitis remains a serious complication for surgery patients, those on peritoneal dialysis, and the critically ill. Using a murine model of peritonitis, we have demonstrated that monomicrobial infection withCandida albicansorStaphylococcus aureusis nonlethal. However, coinfection with these same doses leads to a 40% mortality rate and increased microbial burden in the spleen and kidney by day 1 postinfection. Using a multiplex enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, we have also identified a unique subset of innate proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin-6, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, keratinocyte chemoattractant, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and macrophage inflammatory protein-1α) that are significantly increased during polymicrobial versus monomicrobial peritonitis, leading to increased inflammatory infiltrate into the peritoneum and target organs. Treatment of coinfected mice with the cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor indomethacin reduces the infectious burden, proinflammatory cytokine production, and inflammatory infiltrate while simultaneously preventing any mortality. Further experiments demonstrated that the immunomodulatory eicosanoid prostaglandin E2(PGE2) is synergistically increased during coinfection compared to monomicrobial infection; indomethacin treatment also decreased elevated PGE2levels. Furthermore, addition of exogenous PGE2into the peritoneal cavity during infection overrode the protection provided by indomethacin and restored the increased mortality and microbial burden. Importantly, these studies highlight the ability of fungal-bacterial coinfection to modulate innate inflammatory events with devastating consequences to the host.
Intranasal Prophylaxis with CpG Oligodeoxynucleotide Can Protect against Yersinia pestis Infection
Authors: Hickey Anthony J. , Lin Jr-Shiuan , Kummer Lawrence W. , Szaba Frank M. , Duso Debra K. , Tighe Michael , Parent Michelle A. , Smiley Stephen T.
Published: April 2013

Immunomodulatory agents potentially represent a new class of broad-spectrum antimicrobials. Here, we demonstrate that prophylaxis with immunomodulatory cytosine-phosphate-guanidine (CpG) oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN), a toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) agonist, confers protection againstYersinia pestis, the etiologic agent of plague. The data establish that intranasal administration of CpG ODN 1 day prior to lethal pulmonary exposure toY. pestisstrain KIM D27 significantly improves survival of C57BL/6 mice and reduces bacterial growth in hepatic tissue, despite paradoxically increasing bacterial growth in the lung. All of these CpG ODN-mediated impacts, including the increased pulmonary burden, are TLR9 dependent, as they are not observed in TLR9-deficient mice. The capacity of prophylactic intranasal CpG ODN to enhance survival does not require adaptive immunity, as it is evident in mice lacking B and/or T cells; however, the presence of T cells improves long-term survival. The prophylactic regimen also improves survival and reduces hepatic bacterial burden in mice challenged intraperitoneally with KIM D27, indicating that intranasal delivery of CpG ODN has systemic impacts. Indeed, intranasal prophylaxis with CpG ODN provides significant protection against subcutaneous challenge withY. pestisstrain CO92 even though it fails to protect mice from intranasal challenge with that fully virulent strain.
Toll-Like Receptor 5-Dependent Immunogenicity and Protective Efficacy of a Recombinant Fusion Protein Vaccine Containing the Nontoxic Domains of Clostridium difficile Toxins A and B and Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium Flagellin in a Mouse Model of Clostridium difficile Disease
Authors: Ghose Chandrabali , Verhagen Janneke M. , Chen Xinhua , Yu Jian , Huang Yaoxing , Chenesseau Olivia , Kelly Ciarán P. , Ho David D.
Published: April 2013

Clostridium difficile
is a spore-forming bacillus that produces toxin-mediated enteric disease.
C. difficile
expresses two major virulence factors, toxin A (TcdA) and toxin B (TcdB). Human and animal studies demonstrate a clear association between humoral immunity to these toxins and protection against
C. difficile
infection (CDI). The receptor binding-domains (RBDs) of TcdA and TcdB are known to be immunogenic. Here, we tested the immunoadjuvant properties of
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium flagellin (FliC) subunit D1 as an innate immune agonist expressed as a recombinant fusion vaccine targeting the RBDs of TcdA and TcdB in mice. Intraperitoneally immunized mice developed prominent anti-TcdA and anti-TcdB immunoglobulin G in serum. The protective efficacy of the recombinant vaccines, with or without an adjuvant, was tested in a mouse model of CDI that closely represents the human disease. Following intraperitoneal immunization equivalent to two doses of toxoid A and toxoid B vaccine adjuvanted with alum and oral challenge with
C. difficile
VPI 10463, C57BL/6 mice were able to mount a protective immune response that prevented diarrhea and death compared to mice immunzed with alum alone. These results are significantly different from those for control mice (
P
< 0.001). These results provide evidence that a recombinant protein-based vaccine targeting the RBDs of the
C. difficile
toxins adjuvanted with
S
. Typhimurium flagellin can induce rapid, high-level protection in a mouse model of CDI when challenged with the homologous strain from which the vaccine antigens were derived and warrant further preclinical testing against clinically relevant
C. difficile
strains in the mouse and hamster models of CDI.
Toxoplasma gondii Rhoptry 16 Kinase Promotes Host Resistance to Oral Infection and Intestinal Inflammation Only in the Context of the Dense Granule Protein GRA15
Authors: Jensen Kirk D. C. , Hu Kenneth , Whitmarsh Ryan J. , Hassan Musa A. , Julien Lindsay , Lu Diana , Chen Lieping , Hunter Christopher A. , Saeij Jeroen P. J.
Published: April 2013

Toxoplasma gondiitransmission between intermediate hosts is dependent on the ingestion of walled cysts formed during the chronic phase of infection. Immediately following consumption, the parasite must ensure survival of the host by preventing adverse inflammatory responses and/or by limiting its own replication. Since theToxoplasmasecreted effectors rhoptry 16 kinase (ROP16) and dense granule 15 (GRA15) activate the JAK-STAT3/6 and NF-κB signaling pathways, respectively, we explored whether a particular combination of these effectors impacted intestinal inflammation and parasite survivalin vivo. Here we report that expression of the STAT-activating version of ROP16 in the type II strain (strain II+ROP16I) promotes host resistance to oral infection only in the context of endogenous GRA15 expression. Protection was characterized by a lower intestinal parasite burden and dampened inflammation. Host resistance to the II+ROP16Istrain occurred independently of STAT6 and the T cell coinhibitory receptors B7-DC and B7-H1, two receptors that are upregulated by ROP16. In addition, coexpression of ROP16 and GRA15 enhanced parasite susceptibility within tumor necrosis factor alpha/gamma interferon-stimulated macrophages in a STAT3/6-independent manner. Transcriptional profiling of infected STAT3- and STAT6-deficient macrophages and parasitized Peyer's patches from mice orally challenged with strain II+ROP16Isuggested that ROP16 activated STAT5 to modulate host gene expression. Consistent with this supposition, the ROP16 kinase induced the sustained phosphorylation and nuclear localization of STAT5 inToxoplasma-infected cells. In summary, only the combined expression of both GRA15 and ROP16 promoted host resistance to acute oral infection, andToxoplasmamay possibly target the STAT5 signaling pathway to generate protective immunity in the gut.
Developing cat‐friendly clinics
Authors: Sparkes Andrew
Published: April 2013

With data showing that there has been a marked growth in cat ownership, cats have never had a more important role in clinical practice. Andrew Sparkes discusses how to tap into this demographic by developing ‘cat‐friendly’ clinics.
Something used or something new? Things to consider when buying equipment second hand
Authors: Lhermette Philip
Published: April 2013

In times of austerity it is tempting to acquire equipment at a bargain price. With a limited budget, the choice can be between a single, new piece of equipment or various items second‐hand. Philip Lhermette considers the pros and cons of second hand equipment, discussing whether it really does work out cheaper and how well equipment designed for the human medical market can be adapted for veterinary use.
A practical approach to equine dermatology
Authors: Paterson Sue , Ball Carly
Published: April 2013

Equine dermatological cases can be investigated and managed using a logical diagnostic approach. In the first instance, a carefully taken history, together with a physical and dermatological inspection, form the backbone of investigations. Once an initial history has been taken, the clinician can allocate a skin case to one of seven different groups of clinical presentation: pruritus, alopecia, nodules, crusting and scaling, pigmentary abnormalities, ulcerations and erosions, or pedal or pastern dermatitis. This in turn allows the clinician to formulate a list of differential diagnoses based on the presenting signs and to undertake specific diagnostic tests. This article describes in detail these initial techniques and advises which should be employed for each clinical presentation, together with more advanced investigations where necessary.
Is flirting with clients taboo?
Authors: McCulloch Steven
Published: April 2013

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, ‘Is flirting with clients taboo?’, is presented and discussed by Steven McCulloch. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Discussion of the dilemma ‘Rodents’ rights: patients or pet food?', which was published in the March issue of In Practice, appears on page 223.

The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Interactions of laulimalide, peloruside, and their derivatives with the isoforms of β-tubulin
Authors: Gajewski Melissa M. , Tuszynski Jack A. , Barakat Khaled , Huzil J. Torin , Klobukowski Mariusz
Published: April 2013

The investigational anticancer agents laulimalide and peloruside are known to exert an antimitotic effect on cells by binding to β-tubulin. The binding affinities of derivatives of laulimalide and peloruside to all known isoforms of human β-tubulin were calculated using molecular mechanical, molecular dynamical, and quantum mechanical methods. Several of the derivatives are predicted to have improved β-tubulin binding affinities compared to the parent structures. These results can form the starting point for developing laulimalide or peloruside derivatives with greater specificity for the particular β-tubulin isoforms, which are overexpressed in certain tumours.
Effects of Zishentongluo in Patients with Early-Stage Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Ma Jianwei , Xu Limei , Dong Jing , Wei Hanlin , Zhi Yan , Ma Xinyin , Zhang Wenlong
Published: April 2013

The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of zishentongluo (ZSTL) for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy (DN) and its related mechanisms. Forty-five patients with DN were randomized to receive either ZSTL (n = 25) or benazepril (n = 20), an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, for 12 weeks. Conventional biochemical tests were performed to determine fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), serum creatinine (SCr), endogenous creatinine clearance rate (Ccr), total cholesterol (TC), and triglyceride (TG) levels. The urinary albumin excretion rate (UAER), and endothelin 1 (ET-1), and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels were determined with a radioimmunoassay, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was detected using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The primary endpoint was change from the baseline to post-treatment in HbA1c. Secondary endpoints were change from baseline to post-treatment in FBG, TC, TG, UAER, SCr, Ccr, VI-C, ANP, ET-1, and VEGF. ZSTL was significantly more effective at improving the primary (i.e., HbA1c) and secondary (i.e., FBG, TC, TG, UAER, SCr, ANP, ET-1, and VEGF) outcomes than benazepril (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that ZSTL is superior to benazepril at improving the metabolic and renal functioning in patients with early-stage DN, in part, by modifying ANP, ET-1, and VEGF.
QCD MODIFIED GHOST SCALAR FIELD DARK ENERGY MODELS
Authors: KARAMI K. , ASADZADEH S. , MOUSIVAND M. , SAFARI Z.
Published: April 2013

Within the framework of FRW cosmology, we study the QCD modified ghost scalar field models of dark energy (DE) in the presence of both interaction and viscosity. For a spatially nonflat FRW universe containing modified ghost dark energy (MGDE) and dark matter (DM), we obtain the equation of state of MGDE, the deceleration parameter as well as a differential equation governing the MGDE density parameter. We also investigate the growth of structure formation for our model in a linear perturbation regime. Furthermore, we reconstruct both the dynamics and potentials of the quintessence, tachyon, K-essence and dilaton scalar field DE models according to the evolution of the MGDE density.
THE NEGATIVE EFFECT OF NON-NBT PHASE ON THE FERROELECTRIC PROPERTIES OF SR-DOPED NBT THIN FILM AND THE SOLUTIONS
Authors: XU JIANYUAN , XU HUIZHONG , WANG YAPING , LI DAJI , WANG ZHUO , ZHEN LIANG
Published: April 2013

Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 (NBT) is a kind of excellent lead-free ferroelectric material. However, during the preparation of the NBT thin film by the chemical methods, the non-NBT phase is easier to be formed, which has a negative effect on the ferroelectric properties. In this paper, the Sr -doped NBT (SNBT) films were prepared by metal–organic solution deposition. The effects of Sr -doping amount, annealing temperature and duration on the appearance of non-NBT phase, and the relationship between the amount of non-NBT phase and the ferroelectric properties of the thin film was studied in detail. The results show that the appearance of the non-NBT phase in the SNBT is mainly because of the excessive amount of the doped ions or the excessive evaporation of Bi caused by long annealing duration. The excessive amount of the non-NBT phase will weaken the remanent polarization of the thin films. Using excessive 20% of Bi and reducing the annealing duration are the effective method for suppressing the non-NBT phase and improving the ferroelectricity of NBT-based film.
DETERMINATION OF PHYSICAL RESPONSE IN (Mo/AlN) SAW DEVICES
Authors: CAICEDO J. C. , PÉREZ J. A. , CAICEDO H. H. , RIASCOS H.
Published: April 2013

This paper describes the experimental conditions in surface acoustic wave (SAW) designed on aluminum nitride (AlN) films grown on Si3N4 substrates by using pulsed laser deposition. Moreover it was studied the dependency of optical properties with temperature of deposition. The thickness, measured by profilometry technology, was 150 nm for all films. Moreover, SAW devices with a Mo/AlN/Si3N4 configuration were fabricated employing AlN buffer and Mo Channel. The morphology and composition of the films were studied using atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis (XPS), respectively. The optical reflectance spectra and color coordinates of the films were obtained by optical spectral reflectometry technique in the range of 400–900 cm-1. In this work, a clear dependence in morphological properties, optical properties, frequency response and acoustic wave velocity as function of applied deposition temperature was found. It was also observed a reduction in reflectance of about 10% and an increase of acoustic wave velocity of about 1.2% when the temperature was increased from 200°C to 630°C.
OPEN INNOVATION PRACTICES AND THEIR EFFECT ON INNOVATION PERFORMANCE
Authors: EBERSBERGER BERND , BLOCH CARTER , HERSTAD SVERRE J. , VAN DE VELDE ELS
Published: April 2013

This paper develops an indicator framework for examining open innovation practices and their impact on performance. The analysis, which is based on Community Innovation Survey (CIS) data for Austria, Belgium, Denmark and Norway, yields a number of interesting results. First, we find that open innovation practices have a strong impact on innovation performance. Second, results suggest that broad-based approaches yield the strongest impacts, and that the collective of open innovation strategies appear more important than individual practices. Third, intramural investments are still important for innovative performance, stressing that open innovation is not a substitute for internal knowledge building.
ADDRESSING THE COGNITIVE AND SOCIAL INFLUENCE INHIBITORS DURING THE IDEATION STAGES OF TECHNOLOGY ROADMAPPING WORKSHOPS
Authors: KERR CLIVE , PHAAL ROBERT , PROBERT DAVID
Published: April 2013

The front-end of a roadmapping workshop typically consists of a brainstorming activity. The premise of which is to capture and share as many ideas as possible — to induce cognitive stimulation — resulting in a greater overall group performance in terms of the number, variety and originality of ideas. However, workshops are subjected to underlying cognitive and social processes with their associated downsides for group interaction. They include: production blocking, evaluation apprehension, free riding/social loafing, low norm setting/matching. Facilitation actions and process adjustments to counter such negative factors have been identified so as to improve the running of roadmapping workshops.
SPATIALLY PERIODIC SOLUTIONS FOR GAS FLOWS WITH PRESSURE DEPENDING ON A VARIABLE COEFFICIENT
Authors: FRID HERMANO , RISEBRO NILS HENRIK , SANDE HILDE
Published: April 2013

We study the global existence of spatially periodic solutions for certain models of gas flow in Lagrangian coordinates for which the pressure has the form [Formula: see text], where v, as usual, is the specific volume, and [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] are smooth functions of the variable coefficient [Formula: see text], which is assumed to satisfy suitable smoothness and decay properties, in particular, [Formula: see text], uniformly, as t →0. One important feature of our analysis is that the initial total variation over one period may be taken as large as we wish as long as [Formula: see text] is sufficiently close to 1. We also prove a non-homogeneous entropy inequality which implies the decay of the solution to the mean value as t → ∞.
Evidence for reverse pathways and equilibrium in singlet energy transfers between an artificial special pair and an antenna
Authors: Camus Jean-Michel , Langlois Adam , Aly Shawkat , Guilard Roger , Harvey Pierre D.
Published: April 2013

A dyad, 1, built on an artificial special pair (bis(meso-nonyl)zinc(II)porphyrin), [Zn2], a spacer (biphenylene), a bridge (1,4-benzene), and an antenna (di-meso-(3,5-di(t-butyl)phenyl)porphyrin free base), FB, is prepared by Suzuki coupling and is analyzed by absorption and steady state, and time-resolved emission spectroscopy at 298 and 77 K. Using bases from the Förster theory, evidence for two pathways for S 1 energy transfer, FB* → [Zn2], and [Zn2]* → FB, along with their respective rates, k ET ( S 1)1 and k ET ( S 1)-1, are extracted from the comparison of the fluorescence decays monitored at the emission maximum. At 77 K, the unquenched (1.79 ([Zn2]) and 10.6 ns (FB)) and quenched components (<100 ps; i.e. k ET ( S 1) > 10 (ns)-1), are observed, hence, demonstrating the bidirectional paths with no back energy transfer. A 298 K, only two components are detected (0.44 ([Zn2]) and 2.64 ns (FB)) and the resulting reduced τFs indicates back energy transfer, therefore cycling and equilibrium. Their global rates are 0.31 and 1.8 (ns)-1 for k ET ( S 1)1 and k ET ( S 1)-1 at 298 K. This large temperature dependence on k ET ( S 1) is fully consistent with the participation of thermal activation. Finally, DFT calculations (B3LYP) were used to illustrate a clear correlation between the relative k ET ( S 1) s and the amplitude of the MO couplings between the artificial special pair and the antenna.
Structural characterization and DFT calculation of the Fe–C coordinating bond in bis(tert-butyl isocyanide) iron(II) phthalocyanine
Authors: Janczak Jan , Kubiak Ryszard , Lisowski Jerzy
Published: April 2013

Bis(tert-butyl isocyanide) iron(II) phthalocyanine complex in the crystalline form was obtained by a direct reaction of β- FePc with tert-butyl isocyanide. This complex crystallizes in the centrosymmetric space group P 21/c of the monoclinic system. The Fe ( II ) cation is equatorially ligated by the four N-isoindole atoms of Pc2- macrocycle and axially by the C atom of tert-butyl isocyanide on both sides of a planar FePc molecule. Gas-phase conformation of the bis(tert-butyl isocyanide) iron(II) phthalocyanine molecule obtained by molecular orbital calculations shows a similar conformation as in the crystal. In both phases (solid and gas) a similar correlation between the equatorial Fe – N and axial Fe – C bonds are observed. Steric hindrance of the tert-butyl isocyanide molecules ligated to Fe in axial positions of planar FePc leads to the lowering of the π–π interaction between the π-clouds of Pc macrorings and makes the crystals of the bis(tert-butyl isocyanide) iron(II) phthalocyanine complex better soluble in the most organic solvents than the parent FePc compound. EPR and magnetic susceptibility measurements clearly show that ligation of the intermediate spin FePc by tert-butyl isocyanide leads to the change of the ground state from S = 1 (for FePc , eg3b2g2a1g1) to S = 0 yielding the low-spin complex (( CH 3)3 C - N ≡ C )2 FePc , eg4b2g2). The calculated three-dimensional MESP maps are helpful for understanding of the interaction between the FePc and tert-butyl isocyanide molecules forming bis(tert-butyl isocyanide) iron(II) phthalocyanine complex.
DO GEOGRAPHICAL VARIATIONS IN CLIMATE INFLUENCE LIFE-SATISFACTION?
Authors: MURRAY THOMAS , MADDISON DAVID , REHDANZ KATRIN
Published: April 2013

Accounting for socioeconomic and demographic variables, as well as country-specific effects, households' marginal willingness to pay for climate is revealed using European data on life-satisfaction. Individuals located in areas with lower average levels of sunshine and higher average levels of relative humidity are less satisfied as are individuals in locations subject to significant seasonal variation in monthly mean temperatures and rain days. Ranking regions by climate households appear strongly to favor the Mediterranean climate over the climate of Northern Europe.
Corrosion Protection of AA7075 Aluminium Alloy by Trimethoxy-Silanes Self-Assembled Monolayers
Authors: Neves Rodrigo S. , Silva Daiane P. B. , Motheo Artur J.
Published: April 2013

This study presents electrochemical data concerning the aluminium alloy AA7075 surface modified by self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of octadecyl-trimethoxy-silane and propyl-trimethoxy-silane. Polarisation curves have shown SAMs blocking effect, as they partially block the oxygen reduction reaction and displace the corrosion potential to positive values. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy experiments have suggested that the protective effect comes from the oxide layer stabilization by the organic monolayers, which block the corroding species diffusion to the surface. These results show the potential of using methoxy-silanes SAMs as corrosion protective coatings; however, they are also indicative of the superior octadecyl-trimethoxy-silane protective characteristics.
Adrenal Cyst Presenting as Hepatic Hydatid Cyst
Authors: Darwish Abdulla , Nagaraj Veena , Mustafa Mohmmed B. , Al Ansari Ahmed
Published: April 2013

Introduction. Although adrenal cysts are uncommon, the incidence rate is increasing with the advances in radiological technologies. The incidental detection of adrenal cysts nowadays has become more frequent as a result of the increase usage of high quality imaging modalities. Adrenal cysts originate from the adrenal gland and can be classified into either true or pseudocyst.Presentation of Case. In this report, we described an adrenal cyst of endothelial type, in a 30-year-old lady who was mistakenly diagnosed to have a hydatid cyst both clinically and by imaging.Discussion. Although adrenal cysts are uncommon, the incidence rate is increasing with the frequent use of various high quality radiological technologies. Adrenal cyst should be considered in the differential diagnosis when dealing with upper abdominal cysts. The size of the adrenal cyst can vary from a few millimeters up to 50 cm in diameter. Most of the adrenal cysts are unilateral, while 8%–15% of those cysts do present bilaterally. The majority of cases are diagnosed between the 3rd and 5th decades.Conclusion. Although most of the adrenal cysts are benign in nature, surgical excision is advisable especially when the cysts are greater than 5 cm in diameter and in the case of suspecting malignancy.
Fatal Overdose due to Confusion of an Transdermal Fentanyl Delivery System
Authors: Voigt Ingo
Published: April 2013

Background. The use of transdermal fentanyl systems has increased over recent years, especially in patients with chronic pain. Large misuse potential and fatal outcomes have been described.Case Presentation. A 58-year-old patient presenting with clinical signs of opioid poisoning (hypoventilation, bradycardia, hypotension, and miosis) was admitted to our ICU. The first body check revealed a 75 mcg per hour fentanyl patch at the patient's right scapula. Some months ago, patient's aunt died after suffering from an oncological disease. During breaking up of her household, the patches were saved by the patient. Not knowing the risk of this drug, he mistook it as a heat plaster.Investigations. Laboratory test showed an impaired renal function and metabolic acidosis. Urine drug test was negative at admittance and 12 h later. CCT scan presented a global hypoxic brain disease.Treatment and Outcome. The patient was discharged 30 days after admittance in a hemodynamic stable condition but a vegetative state and transferred to a rehabilitation center.Learning Points. With the ongoing increase in fentanyl patch prescriptions for therapeutic reasons, it is likely that misuse cases will become more relevant. Conventional urine drug screening tests are not able to exclude the diagnosis fentanyl intoxication. History taking should include family member's drug prescriptions.
Acetabular Central Fracture Dislocation after Generalized Seizure during Lumbar Myelography with Iohexol
Authors: Park Kyung-Soon , Moon Jae-Young , Oh Chang-Seon , Yoon Taek-Rim
Published: April 2013

Fracture is a less common complication in seizure patients, and fractures as a consequence of convulsive seizures without direct trauma occur in 0.3% of cases. Acetabular fractures after convulsions are even more rare, and only a few cases of acetabular fracture dislocations, purely caused by convulsive activity, have been reported. Therefore, we report a case of unilateral acetabular central fracture dislocation after a seizure episode, with relevant literature review. The seizure attack occurred after contrast media (Iohexol) injection for checking the myelography.
A Case of Delayed Myelopathy Caused by Atlantoaxial Subluxation without Fracture
Authors: Takamatsu Ryo , Takahashi Hiroshi , Yokoyama Yuichiro , Terajima Fumiaki , Inoue Yasuhiro , Fukutake Katsunori , Wada Akihito
Published: April 2013

We report a case of delayed myelopathy caused by atlantoaxial subluxation without fracture. The patient was a 38-year-old male who became aware of weakness in extremities. The patient had a history of hitting his head severely while diving into a swimming pool at the age of 14 years old. At that time, cervical spine plain X-ray images showed no fracture, and the cervical pain disappeared after use of a collar for several weeks. At his first visit to our department, X-ray images showed an unstable atlantoaxial joint. After surgery, weakness of the extremities gradually improved. At 6 months after surgery, bone union was completed and the symptoms disappeared. This case shows that atlantoaxial ligament injuries are difficult to diagnose and may easily be missed. A high level of suspicion is important in such cases, since neurological compromise or deterioration may occur many years after the injury.
Thyroid Hormones and Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Papakostas Ioannis D. , Macheras George A.
Published: April 2013

Peripheral nerve regeneration is a unique process in which cellular rather than tissue response is involved. Depending on the extent and proximity of the lesion and the age and type of the neuronal soma, the cell body may either initiate a reparative response or may die. Microsurgical intervention may alter the prognosis after a peripheral nerve injury but to a certain extent. By altering the biochemical microenvironment of the neuron, we can increase the proportion of neurons that survive the injury and initiate the reparative response. Thyroid hormone critically regulates tissue growth and differentiation and plays a crucial role during organ development. Furthermore, recent research has provided new insight into thyroid hormone cellular action. Thyroid hormone regulates stress response intracellular signaling and targets molecules important for cytoskeletal stability and cell integrity. Changes in thyroid hormone signaling occur in nerve and other tissues, with important physiological consequences. The interest in thyroid hormone in the context of nerve regeneration has recently been revived.