Observation of Nondipole-Induced Asymmetry in the Angular Emission Distribution of Photoelectrons from Fixed-in-Space CO Molecules

We investigate experimentally and theoretically the C and O 1s photoionization of fixed-in-space CO molecules at a photon energy of 905 eV. We find a significant dependence of the photoelectron angular distributions on the direction of propagation of the ionizing radiation. It results from an interplay of nondipole effects, on one hand, and molecular effects, on the other. The nondipole effects lead to an increase of the emission probability in the forward direction along the light propagation, and the photoelectron wave being scattered by the molecular potential gives rise to a strong peak in the direction of the atom neighboring the emitter site. These effects can either conspire or extenuate each other, depending on the photoelectron emission direction and molecular orientation in space.

Flow simulation-based particle swarm optimization for developing improved hemolysis models

The improvement and development of blood-contacting devices, such as mechanical circulatory support systems, is a life saving endeavor. These devices must be designed in such a way that they ensure the highest hemocompatibility. Therefore, in-silico trials (flow simulations) offer a quick and cost-effective way to analyze and optimize the hemocompatibility and performance of medical devices. In that regard, the prediction of blood trauma, such as hemolysis, is the key element to ensure the hemocompatibility of a device. But, despite decades of research related to numerical hemolysis models, their accuracy and reliability leaves much to be desired. This study proposes a novel optimization path, which is capable of improving existing models and aid in the development of future hemolysis models. First, flow simulations of three, turbulent blood flow test cases (capillary tube, FDA nozzle, FDA pump) were performed and hemolysis was numerically predicted by the widely-applied stress-based hemolysis models. Afterward, a multiple-objective particles swarm optimization (MOPSO) was performed to tie the physiological stresses of the simulated flow field to the measured hemolysis using an equivalent of over one million numerically determined hemolysis predictions. The results show that our optimization is capable of improving upon existing hemolysis models. However, it also unveils some deficiencies and limits of hemolysis prediction with stress-based models, which will need to be addressed in order to improve its reliability.

Ion and Electron Momentum Distributions from Single and Double Ionization of Helium Induced by Compton Scattering

We present the momentum distributions of the nucleus and of the electrons from double ionization of the helium atom by Compton scattering of photons with hν=40  keV. We find that the doubly charged ion momentum distribution is very close to the Compton profile of the nucleus in the ground state of the helium atom, and the momentum distribution of the singly charged ion to give a precise image of the electron Compton profile. To reproduce these results, nonrelativistic calculations require the use of highly correlated initial- and final-state wave functions.

Investigating charge-up and fragmentation dynamics of oxygen molecules after interaction with strong X-ray free-electron laser pulses

The X-ray-induced charge-up and fragmentation process of a small molecule is examined in great detail by measuring the molecular-frame photoelectron interference pattern in conjunction with other observables in coincidence.

Fourfold Differential Photoelectron Circular Dichroism

We report on a joint experimental and theoretical study of photoelectron circular dichroism (PECD) in methyloxirane. By detecting O 1s photoelectrons in coincidence with fragment ions, we deduce the molecule's orientation and photoelectron emission direction in the laboratory frame. Thereby, we retrieve a fourfold differential PECD clearly beyond 50%. This strong chiral asymmetry is reproduced by ab initio electronic structure calculations. Providing such a pronounced contrast makes PECD of fixed-in-space chiral molecules an even more sensitive tool for chiral recognition in the gas phase.

Photon Momentum Transfer in Single-Photon Double Ionization of Helium

We theoretically and experimentally investigate the photon momentum transfer in single-photon double ionization of helium at various large photon energies. We find that the forward shifts of the momenta along the light propagation of the two photoelectrons are roughly proportional to their fraction of the excess energy. The mean value of the forward momentum is about 8/5 of the electron energy divided by the speed of light. This holds for fast and slow electrons despite the fact that the energy sharing is highly asymmetric and the slow electron is known to be ejected by secondary processes of shake off and knockout rather than directly taking its energy from the photon. The biggest deviations from this rule are found for the region of equal energy sharing where the quasifree mechanism dominates double ionization.

Recoil-Induced Asymmetry of Nondipole Molecular Frame Photoelectron Angular Distributions in the Hard X-ray Regime

We investigate angular emission distributions of the 1s photoelectrons of N_{2} ionized by linearly polarized synchrotron radiation at hν=40  keV. As expected, nondipole contributions cause a very strong forward-backward asymmetry in the measured emission distributions. In addition, we observe an unexpected asymmetry with respect to the polarization direction, which depends on the direction of the molecular fragmentation. In particular, photoelectrons are predominantly emitted in the direction of the forward nitrogen atom. This observation cannot be explained via asymmetries introduced by the initial bound and final continuum electronic states of the oriented molecule. The present simulations assign this asymmetry to a novel nontrivial effect of the recoil imposed to the nuclei by the fast photoelectrons and high-energy photons, which results in a propensity for the ions to break up along the axis of the recoil momentum. The results are of particular importance for the interpretation of future experiments at x-ray free electron lasers operating in the few tens of keV regime, where such nondipole and recoil effects will be essential.

Influence of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation on serum microRNA expression

Objective

To date, no biomarkers have been established to predict haematological complications and outcomes of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of a panel of microRNAs (miRNAs), which are promising biomarkers in many clinical fields, in patients before and after initiating ECMO.

Methods

Serum miRNA levels from 14 patients hospitalized for acute respiratory failure and supported with ECMO in our medical intensive care unit were analysed before and 24 hours after ECMO. In total, 179 serum-enriched miRNAs were profiled by using a real-time PCR panel. For validation, differentially expressed miRNAs were individually quantified with conventional real-time quantitative PCR at 0, 24, and 72 hours.

Results

Under ECMO support, platelet count significantly decreased by 65 × 103/µL (25th percentile = 154.3 × 103/µL; 75th percentile = 33 × 103/µL). Expression of the 179 miRNAs investigated in this study did not change significantly throughout the observational period.

Conclusions

According to our data, the expression of serum miRNAs was not altered by ECMO therapy itself. We conclude that ECMO does not limit the application of miRNAs as specific clinical biomarkers for the patients’ underlying disease.

Photon-Momentum-Induced Molecular Dynamics in Photoionization of N_{2} at hν=40 keV

We investigate K-shell ionization of N_{2} at 40 keV photon energy. Using a cold target recoil ion momentum spectroscopy reaction microscope, we determine the vector momenta of the photoelectron, the Auger electron, and both N^{+} fragments. These fully differential data show that the dissociation process of the N_{2}^{2+} ion is significantly modified not only by the recoil momentum of the photoelectron but also by the photon momentum and the momentum of the emitted Auger electron. We find that the recoil energy introduced by the photon and the photoelectron momentum is partitioned with a ratio of approximately 30∶70 between the Auger electron and fragment ion kinetic energies, respectively. We also observe that the photon momentum induces an additional rotation of the molecular ion.

2178Survival differences of left ventricle assist device carriers according to implantation eras - results from the European PCHF-VAD registry

Background

Developments in mechanical circulatory support have established left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) as a mainstay of therapy of advanced heart failure, resulting in improved outcomes in those implanted more recently - described as an “era effect” in the latest INTERMACS registry report. We aimed to study and describe the relevance of the era of device implant on outcomes in a European cohort of LVAD carriers.

Methods

448 patients with continuous flow LVADs have been included in the multicentre PCHF-VAD registry formed by 12 European centres (mean age 52±13 years, 82% male). Patient data were divided to quartiles according to date of LVAD implantation.

Results

Baseline data of patients stratified by implant date quartiles are shown in Table 1. By Cox regression analysis, only the latest quartile was associated with significantly better one year survival, compared to the earliest quartile (Q4 vs. Q1: HR 0.44, 95% CI: 0.22–0.88, p=0.02) (Figure 1). Using a forward stepwise selection process, age and INTERMACS class at implant were the only other significant predictors of outcome; the reduction in all-cause mortality for the patients implanted in the latest quartile remained significant when adjusting for these variables (HR 0.47, 95% CI: 0.23–0.95, p=0.035).

Table 1 Q1 (n=112) Q2 (n=112) Q3 (n=113) Q4 (n=111) p-value 6 Dec 2006–2 Jan 2012 3 Jan 2012–8 Dec 2014 9 Dec 2014–20 Jul 2016 21 Jul 2016–4 Apr 2018 CIED-D before VAD implant, n (%) 40 (35.7%) 50 (44.6%) 65 (57.5%) 85 (76.6%) <0.001 Age 47.8±13.8 53.4±11.9 54.0±12.5 54.3±12.9 <0.001 Female gender, n (%) 25 (22.3%) 22 (19.6%) 14 (12.4%) 20 (18.0%) 0.26 Arterial hypertension, n (%) 15 (13.4%) 34 (30.4%) 33 (29.2%) 20 (18.0%) 0.004 Diabetes mellitus, n (%) 13 (11.6%) 20 (17.9%) 26 (23.0%) 31 (27.9%) 0.017 Chronic kidney disease, n (%) 13 (11.6%) 20 (17.9%) 30 (26.5%) 39 (35.1%) <0.001 Coronary artery disease, n (%) 17 (15.2%) 23 (20.5%) 34 (30.1%) 37 (33.3%) 0.005 Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, n (%) 1 (0.9%) 10 (8.9%) 14 (12.4%) 17 (15.3%) 0.002 Atrial fibrillation, n (%) 17 (15.2%) 33 (29.5%) 35 (31.0%) 43 (38.7%) 0.001 VAD type, HM2, n (%) 105 (93.8%) 90 (80.4%) 49 (43.4%) 2 (1.8%) <0.001 VAD type, HW, n (%) 0 (0.0%) 18 (16.1%) 42 (37.2%) 34 (30.6%) VAD type, HM3, n (%) 1 (0.9%) 0 (0.0%) 16 (14.2%) 70 (63.1%) VAD type, Other, n (%) 6 (5.4%) 4 (3.6%) 6 (5.3%) 5 (4.5%) VAD intention, BTT, n (%) 91 (86.7%) 88 (80.0%) 61 (58.1%) 65 (59.6%) <0.001 VAD intention, BTD, n (%) 8 (7.6%) 12 (10.9%) 28 (26.7%) 20 (18.3%) VAD intention, DT, n (%) 6 (5.7%) 10 (9.1%) 16 (15.2%) 24 (22.0%) INTERMACS class 1 27 (25.0%) 13 (11.7%) 23 (20.9%) 10 (9.3%) <0.001 INTERMACS class 2 41 (38.0%) 37 (33.3%) 19 (17.3%) 24 (22.2%) INTERMACS class 3 24 (22.2%) 27 (24.3%) 40 (36.4%) 48 (44.4%) INTERMACS class 4–7 16 (14.8%) 34 (30.6%) 28 (25.5%) 26 (24.1%) HM2, Heart Mate II; HW, HeartWare; HM3, HeartMate3; BTT, bridge to transplantation; BTD, bridge to decision; DT, destination therapy.

Figure 1

Conclusion

Despite a larger comorbidity burden, patients implanted most recently have better overall survival than those implanted in the earlier eras. This may be attributed to the increasing expertise of the implanting centres providing care for LVAD patients.

Breakdown of the Spectator Concept in Low-Electron-Energy Resonant Decay Processes

We suggest that low-energy electrons, released by resonant decay processes, experience substantial scattering on the electron density of excited electrons, which remain a spectator during the decay. As a result, the angular emission distribution is altered significantly. This effect is expected to be a common feature of low-energy secondary electron emission. In this Letter, we exemplify our idea by examining the spectator resonant interatomic Coulombic decay of Ne dimers. Our theoretical predictions are confirmed by a corresponding coincidence experiment.

Separating Dipole and Quadrupole Contributions to Single-Photon Double Ionization

We report on a kinematically complete measurement of double ionization of helium by a single 1100 eV circularly polarized photon. By exploiting dipole selection rules in the two-electron continuum state, we observed the angular emission pattern of electrons originating from a pure quadrupole transition. Our fully differential experimental data and companion ab initio nonperturbative theory show the separation of dipole and quadrupole contributions to photo-double-ionization and provide new insight into the nature of the quasifree mechanism.

Stenosing tenosynovitis of the abductor pollicis longus muscle in dogs

Chronic lameness of the forelimb with a firm swelling at the medial aspect of the antebrachiocarpal joint can be caused by a tenosynovitis of the abductor pollicis longus muscle. Connective tissue proliferation leads to stenosis of the synovial sheath. The patients show pain in hyperflexion of the carpus. Radiographically, proliferative bone reactions at the distal radius can be found in advanced cases of the disease. If the results of medical treatment by injection of corticosteroids in the area of the synovial sheath are not successful, good results can be achieved by surgical release of the tendon. Based on 10 cases examined, aetiology, clinical findings and therapy are discussed and compared with de Quervain’s tenosynovitis in man.

Lameness due to tenosynovitis of the abductor pollicis longus muscle is reported and findings and therapy of ten animals is discussed.

Zytokinbeschichtete Stents als neue Werkzeuge der angiogenen Therapie

Die Stimulation des endogenen adaptiven Gefäßwachstums (Angiogenese, Arteriogenese) stellt einen vielversprechenden alternativen Therapieansatz zur Behandlung okklusiver Gefäßerkrankungen dar. Trotz der Vielzahl experimentell wirksamer Substanzen ist der erfolgreiche Transfer in den klinischen Gebrauch jedoch ausgeblieben. Als Hauptgrund für die beobachteten neutralen Effekte wird unter anderem die Art der Applikation angesehen. Obwohl präklinische Studien die Überlegenheit einer kontinuierlichen intraarteriellen Gabe gezeigt haben, wurde mangels technischer Machbarkeit in klinischen Studien auf Bolustherapie bzw. intravenöse oder subkutane Applikation ausgewichen. Die Fortschritte in der Entwicklung der ˶drug eluting stents“ eröffnen neue Möglichkeiten der lokalen Medikamentenfreisetzung, insbesondere im Koronarstromgebiet. Die Abgabe von Wachstumsfaktoren wie TGF-beta von solchen Stents ließ sich experimentell bereits zur Stimulation des Kollateralwachstums nutzen. Ein solcher Ansatz wird in Zukunft weitere Möglichkeiten der ortbegrenzten Therapie schaffen und z. B. die gezielte Stabilisierung atherosklerotischer Plaques ermöglichen.

MicroRNA-155 modulates P2R signaling and Th2 priming of dendritic cells during allergic airway inflammation in mice

BACKGROUND

Dendritic cells (DCs) are the professional antigen-presenting cells (APCs) in the lung. They are known to be key players in the induction and maintenance of allergic asthma by cross-linking innate and adaptive immune responses. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are known to influence cell fate and function by translational suppression or induction of messenger RNA (mRNA) degradation. miR-155 has been shown to be a crucial regulator of the immune system. However, its function in the pathogenesis of allergic airway inflammation (AAI) is not completely elucidated yet.

METHODS

Wild type (WT) and miR-155-deficient (miR-155(-/-) ) mice were used in ovalbumin (OVA) and house dust mite (HDM) models of AAI. Adoptive transfer of sensitized DCs to the lungs, migration, and T-cell priming assays were used to investigate the functional relevance of miR-155 in DCs.

RESULTS

miR-155(-/-) mice showed reduced eosinophilic airway inflammation compared to WT mice in both models of AAI. Furthermore, miR-155(-/-) DCs showed limited Th2 priming capacity and failed to induce airway inflammation in allergen-exposed WT mice. miR-155 deficiency on DCs was also associated with impaired purinergic receptor signaling, as miR-155(-/-) DCs showed reduced chemotaxis and IL-1beta secretion upon stimulation with ATP, probably due to direct targeting of ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolases (ENTPD) by miR-155.

CONCLUSIONS

miR-155 deficiency alleviates AAI by diminishing Th2 priming capacity and ATP-/P2R-induced activation of DCs in mice, suggesting this miRNA as a potential therapeutic target of AAI.

[Allergic contact eczema]

Allergic contact eczema due to type IV reactions are more frequent than irritative eczema in facial skin, particularly in the sensitive periorbital region. Concomitant eczema of different locations is pathognomonic and allows a distinction from seborrhoic dermatitis. Avoidance of allergen exposure is mandatory for an effective treatment; therefore allergological examinations have a very high significance. Patch tests with a wide spectrum of potential allergens have to be included in these tests. Therapeutic regimes include a restrictive use of topical steroids. Substances like calcineurin inhibitors are the first-line therapy in facial atopic dermatitis, in spite of therapeutic effects, they have not yet been approved for other forms of periorbital dermatitis.

Endoprosthesis (EN) in frontlimb-sparing surgery for distal radial tumours in the dog: preliminary results

In veterinary medicine, limb-sparing techniques are most implemented when the uninvolved limbs are affected by other orthopaedic or neurological disorders, in large breeds or when the owner declines amputation. This report describes the surgical technique used for implantation of an endoprosthesis following tumour resection in the distal radius in 3 dogs using both standard and angle-stable plates. Endoprosthesis offers an easy and readily available surgical alternative to cortical allografts. Despite post-operative complications, this technique resulted in a good quality of life in all 3 dogs.

Prurigo as a symptom of atopic and non-atopic diseases: aetiological survey in a consecutive cohort of 108 patients

BACKGROUND

Prurigo nodularis Hyde (PN) is a highly pruritic condition due to a vicious circle of repeated itching and scratching. There are no representative clinical studies investigating comorbidities in a large collective of PN patients.

OBJECTIVE

This pilot study aimed to investigate the exact distribution of the coexisting diseases in a large representative consecutive cohort of PN patients.

METHODS

A total of 108 PN patients (36.1% male; mean age of 61.5 ± 16.7 years) were enrolled in the study.

RESULTS

In 87.0% of patients, diseases underlying PN could be established (18.5% skin disease, 7.4% systemic origin, 1.8% neurological diseases, 59.3% mixed origin). Due to several possible causative co-factors, the majority of patients were classified in the group of mixed origin (59.3%). In 53.1% of these patients, at least one dermatological factor was involved in the induction of PN. Interestingly, nearly half (46.3%) of all PN patients had either an atopic predisposition or atopic dermatitis as a single cause of PN (18.5%) or as one co-factor of PN of mixed origin (27.8%). Considering the different underlying diseases, there was no significant age or gender difference.

CONCLUSION

PN does not seem to represent a characteristic symptom of one disease only. Multiple pruritogenic diseases are linked to evolution and improvement of PN upon treatment. Atopic predisposition is a major factor in nearly half of PN patients. The large collective of the present study helped detect a broad range of underlying diseases and thus to provide recommendations for rational diagnostics.

Loss of implant-bone interface following distal radial locking-plate endoprosthesis limb-sparing surgery in a dog

An eight-year-old, neutered female Rottweiler was presented with lameness of seven days duration. Radiographs were consistent with a distal radial bone tumour. Limb-sparing surgery was performed using a commercially available endoprosthesis with a locking bone plate. Histopathological examination of the resected bone revealed an intraosseous fibrosarcoma, and postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy was initiated three weeks after surgery. Despite initial satisfactory limb function, lameness worsened four months after surgery. Radiographs revealed large areas of bone lysis around the proximal and distal screws, leading to significant resorption of the radius and radial carpal bone with subsequent construct failure. Further treatment was declined by the owner and the dog was subsequently euthanased. This case illustrates that implant failure is not necessarily averted by the use of locking (compared with non-locking) implants combined with an endoprosthesis to treat distal radial tumours in dogs.

Impact of soil water regime on degradation and plant uptake behaviour of the herbicide isoproturon in different soil types

The environmental fate of the worldwide used herbicide isoproturon was studied in four different, undisturbed lysimeters in the temperate zone of Middle Europe. To exclude climatic effects due to location, soils were collected at different regions in southern Germany and analyzed at a lysimeter station under identical environmental conditions. (14)C-isoproturon mineralization varied between 2.59% and 57.95% in the different soils. Barley plants grown on these lysimeters accumulated (14)C-pesticide residues from soil in partially high amounts and emitted (14)CO(2) in an extent between 2.01% and 13.65% of the applied (14)C-pesticide. Plant uptake and (14)CO(2) emissions from plants were inversely linked to the mineralization of the pesticide in the various soils: High isoproturon mineralization in soil resulted in low plant uptake whereas low isoproturon mineralization in soil resulted in high uptake of isoproturon residues in crop plants and high (14)CO(2) emission from plant surfaces. The soil water regime was identified as an essential factor that regulates degradation and plant uptake of isoproturon whereby the intensity of the impact of this factor is strongly dependent on the soil type.

Revised Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index (RCLASI): a modified outcome instrument for cutaneous lupus erythematosus

BACKGROUND

In 2005, a scoring system (CLASI, Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index) was developed for patients with cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) to assess disease 'activity' and 'damage'. However, the CLASI does not give an accurate assessment of the severity in all disease subtypes.

OBJECTIVES

The main objective of this study was to analyse critically the included parameters of the CLASI and to revise the activity and damage score taking into account various clinical features of the different subtypes of CLE. The revised CLASI (RCLASI) was also validated for use in clinical trials. Patients and methods A RCLASI was designed with regard to the anatomical region (i.e. face, chest, arms) and morphological aspects (i.e. erythema, scaling/hyperkeratosis, oedema/infiltration, scarring/atrophy) of skin lesions and evaluated by nine dermatologists who scored 12 patients with different subtypes of CLE to estimate inter- and intrarater reliability.

RESULTS

Reliability studies demonstrated an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for an inter-rater reliability of 0.89 for the activity score [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.79-0.96] and of 0.79 for the damage score (95% CI 0.62-0.92). The ICC for intrarater reliability for the activity score was 0.92 (95% CI 0.89-0.95) and the ICC for the damage score was 0.95 (95% CI 0.92-0.98).

CONCLUSIONS

In the present study, a RCLASI was developed by experts, and reliability studies supported the validity and applicability of the revised scoring instrument for CLE. Thus, the RCLASI is a valuable instrument in multicentre studies and for the clinical evaluation of activity and damage in different disease subtypes.

[Cytokine-eluting stents as new drug-delivery devices for angiogenic therapy]

The stimulation of the endogenous adaptive vessel growth (angiogenesis, arteriogenesis) provides a promising therapeutic approach for the large number of patients with vascular occlusive disease that is not eligible for current interventional treatments. Despite the proven efficacy of various factors in pre-clinical experimental studies, the successful translation of angiogenic therapies into clinical practice yet remains to be made. Most authors identified the mode of administrations as culprit for the neutral effects observed in the majority of clinical trials. Although experimental studies have proven the superiority of continuous intra-arterial application above other routes (iv, im, sc), clinical trials focused on either bolus therapy, iv or sc application respectively, due to the lack of technical solutions to fulfill the requirements of intra-arterial delivery. The recent developments in the field of drug eluting stents may offer new possibilities for local drug delivery. Local release of cytokines, such as TGF-beta, has been shown to induce collateral growth in an experimental model of PAD. Other factors might eventually render useful to stabilize atherosclerotic plaques downstream of the site of stent implantation.

Arteriogenesis: basic mechanisms and therapeutic stimulation

Pharmacological attempts to stimulate the growth of collateral arteries (arteriogenesis) are evolving towards a new treatment option for patients with vascular occlusive diseases. This enlargement of small pre-existing anastomoses towards large conductance arteries takes place independent of local oxygen tension and is driven by changes in luminal shear stress and infiltration of circulating cells. With the increasing knowledge regarding the distinct differences between capillary sprouting (angiogenesis) and arteriogenesis, several cytokines and growth factors have been demonstrated to stimulate the growth of arterial blood vessels in preclinical models of vascular disease. However, the translation towards clinical practice remains difficult and first in-man trials show limited success. Intensive research especially regarding new drug delivery platforms and the potentially serious side effects of pro-arteriogenic therapeutics is warranted before stimulation of arteriogenesis could become a significant treatment option for vascular occlusive diseases. This review focuses on the recent advances in the field of collateral artery growth. In addition, possible means to overcome the hurdles that have hampered the clinical implementation of pro-arteriogenic therapies will be discussed.

Application of microbial hot spots enhances pesticide degradation in soils

Through transfer of an active, isoproturon degrading microbial community, pesticide mineralization could be successfully enhanced in various soils under laboratory and outdoor conditions. The microbes, extracted from a soil having high native ability to mineralize this chemical, were established on expanded clay particles and distributed to various soils in the form of microbial "hot spots". Both, diffusion controlled isoproturon mass flow towards these "hot spots" (6microg d(-1)) as well as microbial ability to mineralize the herbicide (approximately 5microg d(-1)) were identified as the main processes enabling a multiple augmentation of the native isoproturon mineralization even in soils with heavy metal contamination. Soil pH-value appears to exert an important effect on the sustainability of this process.

[Identification of 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene-mineralizing bacteria and their function analysis]

Two strains, E3 and F2, capable to mineralize 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene (1,2,4-TCB) were isolated from a chlorinated benzenes contaminated soil using (14)C-1, 2,4-TCB as carbon source. They were identified by their 16S rDNA coding genes and fluoresence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis as members of the genus Bordetella. A similarity of 100% were observed between strains E3 and F2 with their 16S rDNA sequences. They had the highest homology of 100% with Bordetella sp. QJ2-5 and the closest relation to described species, Bordetella petrii (GDH030510) with a similary of 99.4%. Strains E3 and F2 could degrade about 90% of 1,2,4-TCB and mineralize 58% and 46% of 1,2,4-TCB to CO2 within 30 days in mineral liquid cultures, respectively. Biomass was formed during the mineralization process.

Isolation and characterization of 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene mineralizing Bordetella sp. and its bioremediation potential in soil

A soil which has been polluted with chlorinated benzenes for more than 25 years was used for isolation of adapted microorganisms able to mineralize 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene (1,2,4-TCB). A microbial community was enriched from this soil and acclimated in liquid culture under aerobic conditions using 1,2,4-TCB as a sole available carbon source. From this community, two strains were isolated and identified by comparative sequence analysis of their 16S-rRNA coding genes as members of the genus Bordetella with Bordetella sp. QJ2-5 as the highest homological strain and with Bordetella petrii as the closest related described species. The 16S-rDNA of the two isolated strains showed a similarity of 100%. These strains were able to mineralize 1,2,4-TCB within two weeks to approximately 50% in liquid culture experiments. One of these strains was reinoculated to an agricultural soil with low native 1,2,4-TCB degradation capacity to investigate its bioremediation potential. The reinoculated strain kept its biodegradation capability: (14)C-labeled 1,2,4-TCB applied to this inoculated soil was mineralized to about 40% within one month of incubation. This indicates a possible application of the isolated Bordetella sp. for bioremediation of 1,2,4-TCB contaminated sites.

Influence of a heavy rainfall event on the leaching of [14C]isoproturon and its degradation products in outdoor lysimeters

In four different agricultural soils the long-term leaching behaviour of [14C]isoproturon was studied in outdoor lysimeters (2 m length, 1 m2 surface area). The herbicide was applied in spring 1997 and spring 2001. At the end of the first 4-year-investigation period between 0.13% and 0.31% of the applied radioactivity was leached. Isoproturon or known metabolites could not be detected in the leachate. However, shortly after the second application isoproturon and its degradation products 2-hydroxy-isoproturon and monodemethyl-isoproturon were leached via preferential flow in one of the lysimeters (Mollic gleysol) in concentrations of 4.5 microg L-1, 3.1 microg L-1 and 0.9 microg L-1, respectively, thus considerably exceeding the EU threshold limit of 0.1 microg L-1 for ground and drinking water. The results indicate that in soils where mass flow transfer dominates, leaching of isoproturon to groundwater is of low probability whereas in highly structured soils which have the tendency to form macropores, isoproturon can be transported via preferential flow to the groundwater.

[Ankyloglossia in an Anatolian Shepherd dog]

Ankyloglossia, commonknown as tongue-tie, is a rare congenital oral anomaly in dogs. A complete attachment of the lingual frenulum to the floor of the oral cavity leads to limited mobility of the tongue including problems during eating and swallowing. In humans ankyloglossia is a common anomaly in newborn infants. In our report a 5-month old Anatolian Shepherd dog was surgically treated and full function of the tongue could be achieved with a horizontal-to-vertical frenuloplasty.

Herbaspirillum hiltneri sp. nov., isolated from surface-sterilized wheat roots

The genus Herbaspirillum of the Betaproteobacteria mainly comprises diazotrophic bacteria with a potential for endophytic and systemic colonization of a variety of plants. The plant-associated bacterial isolates N3T, N5 and N9 were derived from surface-sterilized wheat roots. After phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequence data the isolates could be allocated to the genus Herbaspirillum, and 99.9 % similarity to the sequence of Herbaspirillum lusitanum P6-12T was found. A set of 16S rRNA gene-targeted oligonucleotide probes was developed for the identification of the three novel isolates and H. lusitanum (Hhilu446), and for the specific detection of several other Herbaspirillum species described recently. For higher phylogenetic resolution, the 23S rRNA gene sequences of all members of the genus was sequenced and used to construct a phylogenetic tree. Isolates N3T, N5 and N9 formed a group that was distinct from all other Herbaspirillum species. In addition, isolate N3T and H. lusitanum P6-12T exhibited a DNA–DNA hybridization value of only 25 %. The value for DNA–DNA hybridization between N3T and other members of the genus Herbaspirillum was between 14 and 32 %; DNA–DNA hybridization between strain N3T and isolates N5 and N9 produced values above 95 %. This places the three isolates as representatives of a novel species within the genus Herbaspirillum. A Biolog GN2 assay supported this conclusion. The major fatty acids were C16 : 1 ω7c, C16 : 0 and C18 : 1 ω7c, and the DNA G+C content ranged from 60.9 to 61.5 mol%. Therefore these three isolates should be classified within a novel species, for which the name Herbaspirillum hiltneri sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is N3T (=DSM 17495T=LMG 23131T).

Quantifying the effect of soil moisture on the aerobic microbial mineralization of selected pesticides in different soils

A standardized quantitative approach was developed to reliably elucidate the effect of increasing soil moisture on pesticide mineralization. The mineralization of three aerobically degradable and chemically different 14C-labeled pesticides (isoproturon, benazolin-ethyl, and glyphosate) was studied under controlled conditions in the laboratory at an identical soil density of 1.3 g cm(-3). The agricultural soils used are characterized by (i) large variations in soil texture (sand content 4-88%) and organic matter content (0.97-2.70% org. C), (ii) fairly diverse soil-water retention curves, and (iii) differing pH values. We quantified the effect of soil moisture on mineralization of pesticides and found that (i) at soil water potential < or = -20 MPa minimal pesticide mineralization occurred; (ii) a linear correlation (P < 0.0001) exists between increasing soil moisture (within a soil water potential range of -20 and -0.015 MPa), and increased relative pesticide mineralization; (iii) optimum pesticide mineralization was obtained at a soil water potential of -0.015 MPa, and (iv) when soil moisture approximated water holding capacity, pesticide mineralization was considerably reduced. As both selected pesticides and soils varied to a large degree, we propose that the correlation observed in this study may be also valid in the case of aerobic degradation of other native and artificial organic compounds in soils.

[Traumatic rupture of the common bile duct in a dog]

Extrahepatic biliary tract rupture only rarely occur secondary to blunt or sharp trauma to the abdomen. Clinical symptoms result from chemical peritonitis and are unspecific. Recognition most often is delayed from several days to weeks, when patients suffer from ascites, icterus, dehydration and apathy. Surgical therapy depends of the site of laceration. In the present case, a dog with bile peritonitis was presented two weeks after being hit by a car. Explorative celiotomy revealed a rupture of the common bile duct. A cholecystojejunostomy was performed.

Local monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 therapy increases collateral artery formation in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice but induces systemic monocytic CD11b expression, neointimal formation, and plaque progression

Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) stimulates the formation of a collateral circulation on arterial occlusion. The present study served to determine whether these proarteriogenic properties of MCP-1 are preserved in hyperlipidemic apolipoprotein E-deficient (apoE-/-) mice and whether it affects the systemic development of atherosclerosis. A total of 78 apoE-/- mice were treated with local infusion of low-dose MCP-1 (1 microg/kg per week), high-dose MCP-1 (10 microg/kg per week), or PBS as a control after unilateral ligation of the femoral artery. Collateral hindlimb flow, measured with fluorescent microspheres, significantly increased on a 1-week high-dose MCP-1 treatment (PBS 22.6+/-7.2%, MCP-1 31.3+/-10.3%; P<0.05). These effects were still present 2 months after the treatment (PBS 44.3+/-4.6%, MCP-1 56.5+/-10.4%; P<0.001). The increase in collateral flow was accompanied by an increase in the number of perivascular monocytes/macrophages on MCP-1 treatment. However, systemic CD11b expression by monocytes also increased, as did monocyte adhesion at the aortic endothelium and neointimal formation (intima/media ratio, 0.097+/-0.011 [PBS] versus 0.257+/-0.022 [MCP-1]; P<0.0001). Moreover, Sudan IV staining revealed an increase in aortic atherosclerotic plaque surface (24.3+/-5.2% [PBS] versus 38.2+/-9.5% [MCP-1]; P<0.01). Finally, a significant decrease in the percentage of smooth muscle cells was found in plaques (15.0+/-5.2% [PBS] versus 5.8+/-2.3% [MCP-1]; P<0.001). In conclusion, local infusion of MCP-1 significantly increases collateral flow on femoral artery ligation in apoE-/- mice up to 2 months after the treatment. However, the local treatment did not preclude systemic effects on atherogenesis, leading to increased atherosclerotic plaque formation and changes in cellular content of plaques.

[Simple techniques for the internal stabilization of fractures and luxations in the sacrococcygeal region of cats and dogs]

Two useful techniques for the repair of caudal sacral fractures and sacrococcygeal fractures/luxations are described. Pre- and postoperative clinical, neurological and radiological findings in 16 operated animals (13 cats and 3 dogs) were compared with findings in 17 (13 cats and 4 dogs) conservatively treated animals. In the surgically treated patients follow up findings were characterized by absence of hyperesthesia and a higher number of animals with recovered tail function. The authors suggest the use of these techniques in cases of caudal sacral fractures or sacrococcygeal fractures/luxations.

Piezo-QEXAFS with fluorescence detection: fast time-resolved investigations of dilute specimens

First X-ray absorption spectroscopy experiments with a vibrating piezo-driven double-crystal monochromator (piezo-QEXAFS) and fluorescence detection are reported. It is shown that high-quality XANES spectra can be recorded on a time scale of about 50 ms per spectrum, even for very low concentrations of < 10 mmol l-1 using fluorescence detection. The quality of the spectra, possible applications, as well as present limits of the technique will be discussed.

[Radiologic follow-up examination of podotrochlosis]

X-rays of 205 horses having navicular disease and having been reexamined up to six times are evaluated. For this, the x-rays of each foreleg are evaluated in the dorsopalmar (Oxspring) and lateromedial view. Additionally to changes of the navicular bone, changes of the distal part of the toe are also assessed. Differences can be found in the radiographic process in view of the limitation of vascular foramina and cyst-like lesions. Vascular foramina with sclerotic rim grow less frequent than poorly defined ones and therefore allow for easier prognostication. Cyst-like lesions with sclerotic rim often stay unchanged or decrease separately, whereas poorly defined areas of rarefication show a stronger tendency to expand into the surrounding spongiosa. Changes of vascular and bone structure occur already within a few months, whereas most of the margination changes are already formed in the early stages of disease and proceed slowly. Finally the effects of the therapy are being examined for the radiographic course of disease. Following a neurectomy, a more intensive development of the changes can be observed. The rate of only minimally altered navicular bones as well as the often simultaneous occurrence of changes in the joints of the toe do not allow for a diagnosis only on the basis of radiographic findings. The often slow development of the pathological radiographic changes requires intervals of examination of at least one year and shows that prognostic statements can only be made with caution even after follow-up examinations.