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Polymer bounded explosives (PBXs) consist of energetic crystals coated with a polymer binder. These materials exhibit a highly heterogeneous microstructure. The initiation of the detonation phenomenon in PBXs is believed to be generated at the microstructure scale through hotspots. Hence, many of the explosives properties (initiation, desensitization, etc.) are understood as a direct consequence of their microstructure. Mesoscale modeling directly addresses the physics of hotspot formation. Unfortunately, high computational cost prevents their use on laboratory-sized and large scale experiments. In practice, continuum-scale models remain mandatory. We describe a new reactive burn model, named WGT, aiming to represent, at the continuum scale, some of the complexity of the PBX's microstructure. The initiation regime is driven by the shock temperature and results from surrogate modeling of the kinetics of a heterogeneous nucleation and growth model. The other regimes follow the formulation of the WHS2D2 reactive burn model and are driven by the local temperature. This model was calibrated on experimental results for PBX 9502 available in the literature, such as detonation velocity–curvature laws, Pop-plot data, or embedded electromagnetic particle velocity gauges. The model was also tested against desensitization and propagation data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-organization of multiple adiabatic shear bands (ASB) is often investigated through collapsing thick-walled cylinders (TWC). In the present work, the material behavior is described by a thermoviscoplastic constitutive law with a strain energy based failure model. Inhomogeneities in the specimen are somehow represented using Voronoi cells. In addition, a user-defined perturbation is imposed in the numerical perturbation to each Voronoi cell. Therefore, a mesh independent perturbation is obtained. Several draws of initial perturbation are considered to investigate variability in shear band patterns. The numerous realizations are analyzed through an algorithm to track and count shears bands providing statistically significant results. The influence of the failure model and perturbation parameters on shear bands number and length is studied. While short bands are affected by the size of the cells, it is shown that the self-organized pattern of developed bands is relatively independent of the imposed Voronoïcell structure. The amplitude of the perturbation affects neither the pattern nor the length of bands (within the considered range of amplitude of the user-defined perturbation). • Adiabatic Shear bands are studied numerically through the collapse of thick-walled cylinders. • A perturbation distributed on a Voronoi pattern is imposed to trigger instability • An algorithm has been developed to identify individual bands in simulations. • Several draws of Voronoi cell structure are conducted to investigate the variability in shear bands pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, computations of gaseous detonations in several configurations are performed and discussed. The objective is to investigate the detonation characteristics, specially the influence of losses, through a quantitative analysis of the mean hydrodynamic structure. The results are divided into two parts: The first one relates to the propagation of ideal detonations without losses and to their characterization for a specific set of thermodynamic parameters, and the second part investigates the influence of losses on the averaged hydrodynamic structure of detonations. This is achieved by means of a specific and canonical configuration, in which a detonation wave propagates in a reactive layer bounded by an inert gas. This topology is investigated through a comparison of the instantaneous flow-field, cellular structure, and averaged quantities such as the mean curvature and the hydrodynamic thickness. This configuration may be regarded as non-ideal, as the detonation experiences losses due to the expansion of the detonation products toward the inert layer. The prediction of the detonation characteristics, as well as the conditions at which quenching occurs, remains a challenge when losses are involved. The main objective is to assess to what extent the hydrodynamic thickness can be used as a relevant length scale in the analysis of the resulting database. The results also highlight the key features of this configuration, which isolates a specific issue related to the rotating detonation engines. The temperature of the inert layer strongly affects the structure of the detonation–shock combined wave. For a high-temperature inert gas confinement, a detached shock appears in the upper layer and a jet of fresh mixture develops downstream of the front. For this condition, we observed a reduction in the critical dimensions by a factor of two. The degree of regularity of the detonation structure, from weakly unstable to mildly unstable cases, through the variation of the reduced activation energy, was investigated. The hydrodynamic thickness appears to be a useful characteristic length scale for the detonation, as it allows a better analysis of the results and a scaling of data. Moreover, the detonation velocity deficit can be globally expressed as a function of the ratio of the hydrodynamic thickness to the mean radius of curvature at the bottom of the wall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: The purpose of this systematic review was to compare quality-of-life instruments used as outcome measures in randomized clinical trials for alcohol-dependence treatment. Methods: Randomized controlled clinical trials, indexed in the EMBASE, PubMed and PsycINFO databases since 1981, which aimed at improving the quality of life in alcohol-dependent patients and used as instrument to measure the quality of life, as specifically designated by the authors, were included. Results: Of the 331 articles screened, 18 studies were included in the review. Eight different quality-of-life instruments were used as outcome measures. Twenty-seven life domains were explored. Between-scale heterogeneity was high. The scale most frequently used was the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). Only 1 clinical trial demonstrated a significant difference between intervention groups at all endpoints, using the Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire (Q-LES-Q). Conclusion: Because many different instruments were used, it is difficult to compare quality-of-life improvement between trials. The most frequently used instrument was a generic health status measure that may not be well suited as a quality-of-life measure for subjects with alcohol dependence. The construction and validation of a specific patient-reported outcome based on alcohol-dependent patients’ concerns would effectively contribute to the assessment of treatment efficacy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aim: Assessing acceptance of controlled drinking (CD) among French alcohol specialists. Methods: On-line survey of 547 French alcohol specialists. We searched factors associated with acceptance of CD, and factors that affected the specialists' selection of treatment goal. Criteria for success used by specialists in clinical practice were compared with criteria expected to be used in clinical trials. Results: CD was accepted as a treatment goal by 48.6% of alcohol specialists (n = 105, n = 216), and 61.9% practiced CD for their own patients (n = 130, n = 210). Factors in selecting outcome goals were: patient's choice, perceived self-efficacy, relapse history and severity of dependence. Age, profession and basis of specialists' opinion on CD were associated with acceptance of CD. Conclusion: Half of French alcohol specialists accept CD as a goal. Acceptance was associated with specialists' personal and professional characteristics. The criteria for success specialists use in their clinical practice differ from those they expect to be used in clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Aim: Assessing acceptance of controlled drinking (CD) among French alcohol specialists. Methods: On-line survey of 547 French alcohol specialists. We searched factors associated with acceptance of CD, and factors that affected the specialists' selection of treatment goal. Criteria for success used by specialists in clinical practice were compared with criteria expected to be used in clinical trials. Results: CD was accepted as a treatment goal by 48.6% of alcohol specialists (n = 105, n = 216), and 61.9% practiced CD for their own patients (n = 130, n = 210). Factors in selecting outcome goals were: patient's choice, perceived self-efficacy, relapse history and severity of dependence. Age, profession and basis of specialists' opinion on CD were associated with acceptance of CD. Conclusion: Half of French alcohol specialists accept CD as a goal. Acceptance was associated with specialists' personal and professional characteristics. The criteria for success specialists use in their clinical practice differ from those they expect to be used in clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aims: The relations between amorous passion and addiction have long been noted. Recent advances in neurobiology have allowed us to reexamine the relations between these two states and to better understand their clinical symptoms. Methods: We compare clinical, neuropsychological, neurobiological and neuroimaging data in love passion versus substance addictions. Results: The clinical description of the amorous state includes: unrestrained desire and sexual pleasure; feeling of euphoria; powerful motivation to the “object of his love”; a cognitive mechanism characterised by a focalised attention, pervasive memories, intrusive thoughts; emotional exacerbation and emotional dependence with need for the other, aroused by his absence. Criteria for love addiction (differing from love passion), including the notion of suffering and continued behaviour despite adverse consequences, inspired from the DSM-IV criteria could be evaluated. The neurophysiological model for all addictions can be applied to love addicts: the desired object is overrated. The rewarding value and its memory trigger a major motivation: simple desire has become a need; cortical control has become insufficient. For love as well as addictions, dopamine codes the value of pleasure. Love and drugs are potent pleasure modulators of dopamine flux. Oxytocin pathways, clearly implicated in love attachment, are also an important pathway towards understanding the mechanisms of dependence. Imagery data on various drug addictions and imagery data on sexual desire, orgasm and amorous relationships, enable their mechanisms and activated circuits to be compared and their similarities analysed. Conclusion: Love and addictions are comprised of liking, wanting and needing. Refining of clinical, neurobiological and neuro-imaging studies will further elucidate these similarities and should provide a better understanding and improved treatment of these states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Histomonas meleagridis is a flagellated protozoa causing histomoniasis, a disease of gallinaceous fowl. This disease is characterized by necrotic typhlitis, hepatitis, and high mortality, especially in turkeys. In an attempt to detect the progression of H. meleagridis in the turkey, birds were infected via the cloaca. Between d 0 and 19, a group of 4 turkeys was killed and autopsied every 3 d. Cecal and hepatic lesion scores were used to measure severity of infection. For each turkey, 15 tissue samples were taken. Another group of 3 infected turkeys were placed separately, and samples of cecal and intestinal stool were collected every 3 d. Samples were analyzed by PCR. For samples of cecal droppings, cecum, cecal content, rectum, proventriculus, and bursa of Fabricius, the number of birds detected as positive by PCR followed the evolution of the lesion scores. Within the liver, the parasite DNA was detected only in some severe lesions. The parasite DNA was also detected in duodenum, jejuno-ileum, spleen, heart, lungs, and brain samples. The parasite DNA was not detected in the blood, kidneys, pancreas, or muscle of the thigh. Results of the PCR were in agreement with the evolution of the clinical signs and of the cecal and liver lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

— The health costs of alcohol-related problems in France were estimated using two cost evaluation approaches: (1) estimate based on the proportion of cases attributable to alcohol abuse (the alcohol abuse factor); (2) estimate based on prevalence of alcohol abuse for in- and out-patients. For a 10% prevalence of alcohol abuse in the general population, the minimum cost in 1996 was about US$ 2300 million; for a prevalence of 15% it was US$ 2700 million. This cost concerns the health disorders that are linked directly or indirectly to alcohol abuse. It did not allow for injuries from accidents caused by alcohol intoxication and undervalued the cost of out-patient care. Based on the prevalence of alcohol-related disorders seen at hospitals, a percentage of the total in-patient and out-patient costs due to effects of alcohol could be estimated. However, this did not permit an estimate of the cost of care in which alcohol abuse was a risk factor only. Based on the available data showing that between 3% and 10% of inpatients have a directly alcohol-related condition, estimates of in-patient treatment costs varied from US$ 1300 to 2100 million. Among adult out-patients, 20% present with a disorder in which alcohol is a factor or suffer from an alcohol-related illness, which corresponds to a cost of about US$ 1600 million. Thus, these methods yield minimum year's cost estimated between US$ 2500 and 3300 million. These costs are high, compared to the low level of financing for the specialized facilities offering treatment to people in difficulty due to alcohol excess, which was US$ 23 million in that year. As regards social and total costs, estimates from four Western countries have found that about 75% of the total costs of alcohol abuse was attributable to social harm, and 25% to medical costs. Applying this ratio to the French data gives an estimated total cost to French society of about US$ 13 200 million, i.e. 1.04% of the gross national product. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The prevalence of alcohol use disorders in hospital patients was studied in all the hospitals of one area of France. Alcohol disorders were diagnosed by the head nurse or a physician in the hospital where the patient was being attended, and by means of the CAGE self-questionnaire This descriptive survey, carried out on one particular day, concerned 7626 patients. The prevalence of alcohol disorders was 18%, whereas only 6% of the admissions were for alcohol-related pathologies. Prevalences were 25% in men and 7% in women, 10% in persons aged under 25 years and 43% in men aged between 36 and 55 years. In all, one patient in two was diagnosed directly, though only one in four in the age range under 25 years. These results suggest that too few patients with alcohol use disorders are identified in hospitals, especially in certain age groups and certain types of ward [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: Conopeptides are a diverse array of small linear and reticulated peptides that interact with high potency and selectivity with a large diversity of receptors and ion channels. They are used by cone snails for prey capture or defense. Recent advances in venom gland transcriptomic and venom peptidomic/proteomic technologies combined with bioactivity screening approaches lead to the identification of new toxins with original pharmacological profiles. Here, from transcriptomic/proteomic analyses of the Conus consors cone snail, we identified a new conopeptide called τ-CnVA, which displays the typical cysteine framework V of the T1-conotoxin superfamily. This peptide was chemically synthesized and its three-dimensional structure was solved by NMR analysis and compared to that of TxVA belonging to the same family, revealing very few common structural features apart a common orientation of the intercysteine loop. Because of the lack of a clear biological function associated with the T-conotoxin family, τ-CnVA was screened against more than fifty different ion channels and receptors, highlighting its capacity to interact selectively with the somatostatine sst3 receptor. Pharmacological and functional studies show that τ-CnVA displays a micromolar (Ki of 1.5μM) antagonist property for the sst3 receptor, being currently the only known toxin to interact with this GPCR subfamily. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Cannabis is the most frequently used illegal drug in France. In 2007, the average age for a first use was 15.1 years. Most teenagers will limit their use to a few experiences or controlled use. However, for those who do become dependent, the lapse between the first use and dependence is brief (approximately 18 months) with an average of 28 months compared to tobacco (3–5 years) and alcohol (5–9 years). In light of this brief delay, it is crucial to quickly recognize adolescents who have problem cannabis use and to educate parents to warning signs and to teach them how to efficiently discuss the subject with their teenager. Multidimensional Family Therapy, Cognitive and Behavioral Family Therapy and Brief Strategic Family Therapy have shown their efficacy in clinical trials. Improving family dynamics represents not only a motivational opportunity to help the adolescent to adhere to drug dependence treatment, but may also facilitate reintegration into a drug-free social environment and maintenance in a drug-free existence. Family interventions have been shown to be even more effective when community family assistance relations (social workers, educational counselors) are optimized. Family therapy should also be combined with personal empowerment and life planning interventions which enable the adolescent to increase his self-esteem through scholastic and professional achievement. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The susceptibility of mule and muscovy ducks to “blackhead” disease caused by Histomonas meleagridis was studied, using an experimental intracloacal inoculation. Turkeys were used as controls. Morbidity, mortality and body weight gain were recorded regularly during the experiments. A direct examination of the caecal content was made to determine the absence or presence of the parasite. Gross and microscopic lesions were observed on days 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 post infection to evaluate any clinical histomoniosis in ducks and to appraise the histomonad's carriage. A scoring system was developed both for gross and histological lesions of the caecum and liver. Infected mule and muscovy ducks ( n =83) never developed any clinical signs of histomoniasis. Weight gains of infected mule and muscovy ducks were similar to those of uninfected ducks. In 67% of the ducks (56/83), it was possible to demonstrate the parasite in the caecal content throughout the experiment. Typical macroscopic caecal lesions were observed in five of the ducks between days 7 and 21 post infection, with a caecal necropsy main lesion score (MLS?=?1.6) less severe than that in turkeys (MLS?=?2.9). Only caecal histological lesions occurred in six of the cases. Therefore, ducks do not seem to be a susceptible host for “blackhead” but may act as carrier animals for H. meleagridis . The virulence was apparently not changed, since 67% of turkeys (10/15) infected with the caecal content of positive ducks displayed classical signs of blackhead disease. Even if H. meleagridis alone does not represent a substantial danger in the duck production, its infectivity should to be taken into account in the transmission to more susceptible species. Infectiosité d' Histomonas meleagridis chez les canards La sensibilité des canards mulards et de Barbarie à la maladie de la "tête noire" causée par Histomonas meleagridis a été étudiée à l'aide d'une inoculation intra cloacale. Des dindes ont servi de contrôles. La morbidité, la mortalité et les gains du corps ont été enregistrés régulièrement pendant les expérimentations. Un examen direct (DE) du contenu cæcal a été réalisé pour déterminer l'absence ou la présence du parasite. Les lésions macroscopiques et microscopiques ont été observées 7, 14, 21, 28 et 35 après l'infection (PI) pour évaluer toute histomonose clinique chez les canards et pour évaluer le portage d' Histomonas . Un système de notation a été développé pour les lésions macroscopiques et histologiques du caecum et du foie. Les canards mulards et de Barbarie infectés (n?=?83) n'ont jamais développé de symptômes d'histomonose. Les gains de poids des canards mulards et de Barbarie ont été similaires à ceux non infectés. Chez 67% des canards (56/83) il a été possible de démontrer la présence du parasite dans le contenu cæcal tout au long de l'expérimentation. Des lésions macroscopiques cæcales typiques ont été observées chez 5 canards entre 7 et 21 jours PI, avec un indice lésionnel moyen cæcal MLS?=?1.6 qui est moins grave que chez les dindes MLS?=?2.9. Des lésions histologiques cæcales sont apparues dans seulement 6 des cas. Ainsi, les canards ne semblent pas être des hôtes sensibles à la "tête noire" mais peuvent jouer le rôle d'animaux porteurs d' H. meleagridis. La virulence n'a apparemment pas changée, puisque 67% (10/15) des dindes infectées par le contenu cæcal des canards positifs ont montré de symptômes classiques de tête noire. Même si H. meleagridis seul ne représente pas un danger substantiel pour la production de canards, son infectiosité doit être prise en compte dans la transmission à des espèces plus sensibles. Infektiosität von Histomonas meleagridis für Enten Die Empfänglichkeit von Mule- und Moschus ( Cairina moschata )-Enten für die durch Histomonas meleagridis verursachte Schwarzkopfkrankheit wurde mittels experimenteller intrakloakaler Inokulation untersucht. Als Kontrolltiere wurden Puten verwendet. Während des Versuchs wurden Morbidität, Mortalität und Körpergewichtszunahmen in regelmäßigen Abständen erfasst. Die direkte Untersuchung des Zäkalinhalts wurde zum Nachweis des Parasiten durchgeführt. Zur Evaluierung von Anzeichen einer klinischen Histomonadose und zur Beurteilung des Histomonadeninfektionsgrades wurden 7, 14, 21, 28 und 35 Tage post infectionem (PI) pathologisch-anatomische und –histologische Alterationen bei den Enten ermittelt. Sowohl für die pathologisch-anatomischen als auch für die histologischen Läsionen in Zäkum und Leber wurde ein Bewertungssystem entwickelt. Keine der infizierten Mule- und Moschusenten (n?=?83) entwickelten klinische Symptome einer Histomonadose. Die Gewichtszunahmen der infizierten Mule- und Moschusenten entsprachen denen der nicht infizierten Enten. Bei 67 % der Enten (56/83) konnte der Parasit während der gesamten Versuchsdauer im Zäkalinhalt nachgewiesen werden. Bei 5 Enten wurden typische makroskopische Zäkalläsionen zwischen dem 7. und 21. Tag PI beobachtet, wobei der zäkale Nekropsie-Bewertungsgrad 1,6 betrug, was deutlich geringer als bei den Puten (2,9) war. Nur histologische Zäkalveränderungen traten in sechs Fällen auf. Aufgrund dieser Ergebnisse scheinen Enten keine empfänglichen Wirtstiere für die Schwarzkopfkrankheit zu sein, sie können jedoch als Trägertiere für H. meleagridis fungieren. Die Virulenz des Erregers hatte sich offensichtlich nicht verändert, da 67 % der Puten (10/15), die mit dem Zäkalinhalt der positiven Enten infiziert worden waren, die klassischen Symptome einer Schwarzkopfkrankheit entwickelten. Selbst wenn H. meleagridis alleine keine substantielle Gefahr für die Entenproduktion darstellt, sollte seine Infektiosität für die Übertragung zu empfänglicheren Spezies beachtet werden. Infectividad de Histomonas meleagridis en patos Se estudió la susceptibilidad de patos Mula y Mudo a la enfermedad de la “Cabeza negra” causada por Histomonas meleagridis , mediante infección intracloacal. Se usaron pavos como controles. Durante los ensayos se registraron regularmente la morbilidad, mortalidad y el peso corporal. Se realizó un examen directo (DE) del contenido cecal para determinar la ausencia o presencia del parásito. Para evaluar cualquier signo de histomoniasis clínica en patos y determinar los portadores de histomonas se valoraron las lesiones macroscópicas y microscópicas a los 7, 14, 21, 28 y 35 días post infección (PI). Se desarrolló un sistema de puntuación para las lesiones macroscópicas e histológicas de ciego e hígado. Los patos Mula y Mudo infectados (n?=?83) no desarrollaron nunca ningún signo clínico de histomoniasis. Los incrementos de peso de los patos Mula y Mudo infectados fueron similares a los observados en los patos no infectados. Durante el experimento se demostró la presencia del parásito en el contenido cecal en el 67% de los patos (56/83). Se observaron lesiones características en el ciego en 5 de los patos entre los días 7 y 21 PI, siendo la puntuación media de las lesiones en la necropsia (MLS?=?1.6) menos grave que en los pavos (MLS?=?2.9). Solamente se observaron lesiones histológicas en el ciego en 6 de los casos. Por lo tanto, los patos no parecen ser huéspedes susceptibles de la “enfermedad de la cabeza negra”, aunque podrían actuar como animales portadores de H. meleagridis . Al parecer la virulencia no sufrió cambios, dado que el 67% de los pavos (10/15) infectados con el contenido cecal de los patos positivos desarrollaron signos clínicos de la enfermedad de la cabeza negra. Pese a que H. meleagridis por si solo no represente un peligro sustancial para el sector de la producción de patos, su infectividad debería tenerse en cuenta en vistas a la transmisión a especies de mayor susceptibilidad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: To study cognitive interference associated with craving for alcohol, the Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) method was used to measure the relationship between craving and reaction time. A secondary aim was the study of the predictive factors for craving during alcohol detoxification. The EMA enables both repeated measures of craving in a natural setting and the recording of reaction time without the patient being aware of this. METHODS: Craving for alcohol, reaction time, sadness and anxiety were recorded 8 to 12 times a day, over three weeks of detoxification in 14 alcoholics (n=1767 measures), on an electronic diary issuing random prompts. Mixed models were used for statistical analysis (alpha=5%, 1-beta=88%). RESULTS: Reaction time was significantly increased in univariate analysis when a craving episode occurred but this difference did not persist after multivariate analysis. Craving episodes were more frequent and intense than previously reported. Predictive factors of craving during detoxification were: age, gender, sadness, anxiety and the number of previous detoxifications. Antidepressants, anti-craving medications but not benzodiazepines were negatively associated to craving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This aetiological study of guttural pouch mycosis (GPM) in the horse was based on the retrospective study of 21 horses brought into the National Veterinary School of Lyon (France) between 1998 and 2002. Biopsies were taken from the lesions caused by GPM during endoscopic examination. In 87% of the cases, direct examination gave positive results, whereas 43% of the cultures were found to be negative. The main fungi observed were Aspergillus fumigatus (in three cases), A. versicolor (in two cases, together with other fungi), and A. nidulans and A. niger (one case each). In six cases, the Aspergillus species could not be identified. In two cases, cleistothecia and/or Hülle cells were observed. In three cases, fungi other than Aspergillus were seen, mixed or not with Aspergillus. These results underline the importance of Aspergillus-fumigatus in the development of GPM in horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybridization and introgression are important natural evolutionary processes that can be successfully investigated using molecular markers and open- and controlled-pollinated progeny. In this study, we collected open-pollinated seeds from Cedrus atlantica, Cedrus libani and C. libani × C. atlantica hybrids from three French-plantation forests. We also used pollen from C. libani and Cedrus brevifolia to pollinate C. atlantica trees. The progeny were analyzed using three different types of molecular markers: RAPDs, AFLPs and cpSSRs. Chloroplast DNA was found to be paternally inherited in Cedrus from the progeny of controlled-crosses. Heteroplasmy, although possible, could not be undoubtedly detected. There was no indication of strong reproductive isolating barriers among the three Mediterranean Cedrus taxa. Gene flow between C. atlantica and C. libani accounted for 67 to 81% of viable open-pollinated seedlings in two plantation forests. We propose that Mediterranean Cedrus taxa should be considered as units of a single collective species comprising two regional groups, North Africa and the Middle East. We recommend the use of cpSSRs for monitoring gene flow between taxa in plantation forests, especially in areas where garden specimens of one species are planted in the vicinity of selected seed-stands and gene-conservation reserves of another species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficacy of a novel avermectin, selamectin (Stronghold®, Pfizer), was evaluated against naturally acquired aural infestations of Otodectes cynotis. Selamectin was administered topically in a single spot to the skin of each animal’s back at the base of the neck in front of the scapulae at a minimum dosage of 6 mg kg−1. Thirty cats of a cattery of 120 animals with an endemic infestation were treated on days 0 and 30. Including untreated control cats was therefore not possible because of animal welfare consideration. Clinical examination and visualization of mites by otoscopic examination of the external ear canal and microscopic examination of aural debris/exudate were performed twice weekly from days 0 to 30. On day 0 (and day 28 if the ears canals were erythematous), a swab was taken from each canal and sent to bacteriology and mycology units for detection and identification of bacteria (Staphylococcus mainly) and yeast (Malassezia pachydermatis only).Selamectin was safe, parasites were killed before day 3 and eliminated before day 17. Selamectin was 100% effective against natural aural infestations, even if erythema (26–33% of cats) and scratch reflex (23–40% of cats) persisted for 2 weeks after the cats tested negative for mites. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We developed a Time-Of-Flight (TOF) X-Ray Beam Induced Current (XBIC) setup on the BM05 beamline of the ESRF aiming at characterizing the electronic properties of the commercially available semiconductors. By recording 2-dimensionnal current maps, we are able to evaluate the homogeneity of response of the semiconductor to the X-ray beam excitation. Time resolution studies can be performed thanks to the synchronization of the response to the individual X-rays bunches. In addition, the availability of Bragg diffraction imaging on the same beamline provides the advantage of coupled measurements using both techniques. This paper presents the results obtained from several diamonds during the commissioning of the XBIC setup. A comparison with the results obtained with Bragg diffraction imaging and fluorescence maps is also shown and demonstrates that these techniques are complementary. [Display omitted] • XBIC measurements are performed on diamonds of different type. • Correlations between structural defects and electronic properties are shown. • Irradiated induced defects are characterized thanks to XBIC measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Emergence of alternative treatment goals to abstinence in alcohol use disorder call for the development of an assessment instrument relevant to the different therapeutic objectives, especially those that meet patients'' concerns. Although the measure of quality of life is now considered relevant in alcohol use disorders, reliability, content and sensitivity to change are still sensitive issues. Objectives: The purpose of this review is to clarify the concept of quality of life used in clinical trials in alcohol dependence. We described the instruments and identified the life domains explored. Methods: After a systematic search on PubMed, clinical trials that aimed at improving the quality of life in alcohol dependent patients and used an instrument to measure the quality of life as specifically designated by the authors were included. Results: Of the 46 articles screened, 23 studies were included. Fourteen instruments were used as an outcome measure. Thirty-two life domains with high between-scale heterogeneity were explored. The scale used most frequently was the SF-36, a generic health status measure. The quality of life improved in more than three-quarters of the trials. However, only one-third of the comparative trials demonstrated a significant difference between groups. Conclusion: The comparison of the trials on quality of life improvement is hindered by the variety of instruments. The instruments currently used may not collect information that is both relevant and accurate. The construction and validation of specific patient-reported outcomes would significantly progress the assessment of treatment efficacy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Recently in the Li-ion battery community there has been an intense amount of attention focusing on developing positive electrodes which operate on the Fe2+/Fe3+ redox potential given that the environmental and economic advantages of Fe-based compounds compared to other transition metals are tremendous. Here we report that we have succeeded in preparing for the first time LiFeSO4F in the triplite structure which shows an open circuit voltage of 3.9V versus Li with a reversible capacity of approximately 85mAhg−1, still well below the theoretical value of 148mAhg−1 due to poor electrode kinetics. Nevertheless, we additionally found that the volume change on removal of Li is 0.6%. Once optimized, this triplite phase of LiFeSO4F could stand as a promising contender to LiFePO4. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A novel hydrated fluoroselenate NaCoSeO4F·2H2O has been synthesized, and its structure determined. Like its sulfate homologue, NaCoSO4F·2H2O, the structure contains one-dimensional chains of corner-sharing MO4F2 octahedra linked together through F atoms sitting in a trans configuration with respect to each other. The magnetic properties of the two phases have been investigated using powder neutron diffraction and susceptibility measurements which indicate antiferromagnetic ordering along the length of the chains and result in a G-type antiferromagnetic ground state. Both compounds exhibit a Neel temperature near 4 K, and undergo a field-induced magnetic phase transition in fields greater than 3 kOe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) are used as biomarkers of alcohol misuse. The aim of this study was to evaluate, in terms of sensitivity and specificity, the performance of the new Bio-Rad %CDT TIA kit and GGT assay for identifying alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence (according to the DSM-IV criteria). METHODS: An open multicenter study (30 centers) over 3 months, including patient groups of 'abusers,' 'dependents,' and controls, was conducted in France. RESULTS: In alcohol abuse, the sensitivity of GGT was 0.56, and that of CDT was 0.80; in alcohol dependence, the sensitivity of GGT was 0.86, and that of CDT was 0.91. The specificity of GGT was 0.77, and that of CDT was 0.83. The association of GGT with CDT increased sensitivity for alcohol abuse to 0.90 and for alcohol dependence to 0.99, but it appreciably decreased specificity (0.63). CONCLUSIONS: %CDT is the better screening marker for alcohol abuse and dependence, but GGT is still a useful marker for the detection of alcohol dependence. As an assay method, the second-generation Bio-Rad %CDT immunoassay can be recommended for routine CDT measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: General medical practitioners are essential for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of alcohol use disorders. Studies to examine medical practice in this field, however, are very rare. METHOD: A cross-sectional study involving 2010 patients seen by a sample of 145 general practitioners in the Auvergne region of central France was conducted on a given day in May 1998. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of alcohol use disorders (using the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria for alcohol abuse or dependence and the CAGE questionnaire) and so to estimate the proportion of nonsomatic alcohol-related care dispensed. RESULTS: Sixteen percent of patients consulting their general practitioner had an alcohol problem, 27% of men and 5% of women. On average, a quarter of these patients had not been previously identified by the physician. Diagnosis seemed particularly difficult in women: 11% of women aged between 36 and 45 had an alcohol-related problem that went unidentified in 60% of cases. Care for alcohol-related health problems was therefore seriously inadequate. In one third of cases, patients with a diagnosed alcohol-related problem were not followed up by the physician for that problem. Two thirds received no medication, and in more than 80% of cases the physician did not refer to a specialist or prescribe admission to a specialized hospital ward. CONCLUSIONS: These results underline the diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties experienced by general practitioners. This study has led to the establishment of a pilot health care network for patients suffering from alcohol use disorders. This network involves voluntary doctors who have been trained and are better paid for their services. Care protocols have been established to which these practitioners have to adhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Online clinical trial is an emergent design that could be of particular interest in problem gamblers, due to poor access to health care system. Online gamblers could benefit from non face-to-face therapy. Our study is the first exclusively online randomized controlled trial among problem gamblers with a naturalistic recruitment in their gambling environment. Objectives This randomized clinical trialassessed the efficacy of 3 internet-based brief interventions on problem poker gamblers compared to a control group at 6 and 12 weeks. Methods All poker gamblers who have started a poker session on Winamax site, on Day-1 during the inclusion period were screened; subjects could be included only once. Subjects could be included if they obtained minimum scores of the Canadian Problem Gambling Index – Problem Gambling Severity (CPGI-PGSI) ≥5. 1109 Subjects were randomized in 4 groups: (1) Control= waiting list, n=264; (2) email with personal normative information, n= 288; (3) self-help program to be downloaded, based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing(MI), n= 259; (4) same program of CBT and MI dispensed weekly by email contacts with a psychologist, n= 298. Subjects were followed and gambling behavior was assessed at the end of the program at 6 weeks and after a maintenance phase at 12 weeks. The main judgment criterion was change in CPGI-PGSI at 6 weeks. Results High dropout rate occurred on the CPGI-PGSI and was higher in groups 3 and 4. Mean CPGI-PGSI scores decrease in all the 4 groups. No significant difference could be shown between the 3 intervention groups vs control group in any of the measured outcomes (no missing data due to automatic collection by the operator except for CPGI). Discussion In non-treatment –seekers problematic poker gamblers, inclusion process in a clinical trial could be equivalent to 'prompt commitment there and then”, which is a recognized brief, and therefore have a therapeutic effect. This could explain that no difference could be shown between the groups. High dropout rate could be explained by the non-treatment-seeking status, but also by poor acceptability of therapeutic interventions requiring high personnel investment in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Brain models of drug addiction are being tackled in humans, using PET and MRI. Results: [1.] Whereas tobacco and cannabis do not interact directly with dopamine sites, positron emission tomography detected lower availability in sites regulating the catecholamines homeostasis, notably in dopamine transporter sites in striatal and in extrastriatal regions. This further supports repeated and long term substance use progress towards an adaptative diminished basal dopamine level that would contribute to the switch to an addicted brain. [2.] Alcohol: abnormalities in brain macro- and micro- structure were searched in detoxified alcohol-dependents with preserved psychosocial functioning: [-] Brain function (fMRI): fronto-cerebellar overactivation detected during an auditory language task in alcohol-dependents may reflect the compensatory effort required for patients to maintain the same level of performance as controls. [-] Brain macrostructure (MRI). Widespread lower white matter volumes, and lower grey matter volumes in the frontal lobe, insula, hippocampus, thalami and cerebellum, were detected. Poorer neuropsychological performance correlated with smaller grey matter volumes in these regions and with lower white matter volume in the brainstem. [-] Brain microstructure (DTI): tractography of white matter fiber bundles revealed that brainstem bundles alteration may contribute to cognitive flexibility impairment. Regression analyses showed memory scores were related to brain microstructure in parahippocampal areas, frontal cortex, and left temporal cortex. This suggest diffusion imaging (DTI) is a useful probe to early alcohol-induced brain alterations. Conclusion: While indices of dopamine down-regulation are consistency detected in several drug addictions, even “socially-adapted” alcohol dependence may induce change in brain structure. Psychol Med. 1998 28:1039-48. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2007 32:429-38. IEEE Trans Med Imaging. 2007 26:553-65 J Nucl Med. 2007 48:538-46. Neuropsychopharmacology (Chanraud S et al., 2008 Jul 9. [Epub ahead of print]). J Clin Psychopharmacol (Leroy C et al, in press). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]