bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No evidence for altered cellular immune functions in personnel deployed in the Persian Gulf during and after the Gulf War ‐ The Danish Gulf War study
Authors: Bregenholt Søren , Ishøy Torben , Skovgaard Lene T. , Suadicani Paul , Appleyard Merethe , Guldager Bernadette , Malte Lone , Gyntelberg Finn , Claesson Mogens H.
Published: August 2010

Veterans who have participitated in the Gulf War suffer from a number of symptoms, collectively referred to as the Gulf War Syndrome. It has been hypothesized that a change in the systemic cytokine balance or other changes in immunological parameters could be responsible for some of the symptoms. We analyzed the peripheral blood natural killer (NK) cell activity of 686 Gulf War personnel who had been present in the Persian Gulf area during and immediately after the Gulf War as well as 231 gender and age‐matched controls. The test material included individual samples of frozen peripheral blood mononuclear cells kept at −139°C for a period of 50 to 380 days prior to NK cell analysis of freshly thrawed cells. Significant differences in NK‐cell activity were not observed by direct comparison of the levels of natural cytotoxic activity in the two groups. However, NK‐cell cytotoxicity as such decreased due to cryopreservation. Surprisingly, the NK cells obtained from control donors were significantly (p<0.0001) more sensitive to freezing conditions than cells from the Gulf War personnel, leaving the marginal comparison between the two groups untrustworthy, in particular because of the marked difference between the −139°C storage times used for the two groups. Freshly thawed samples of peripheral blood T lymphocytes (CD2+ cells) from 109 randomly selected Gulf War personnel and 68 gender‐ and age‐matched controls were stimulated for 3 days with phytohemagglutinin followed by 4 h activation by phorbol ester and ionomycin, and were stained for intracellular content of interleukin‐2, ‐5, ‐10 and interferon‐γ. As with natural cytotoxicity, the length of cell storage at −139 °C influenced the production of cytokines. No significant differences in the cytokine production between the two groups were observed when the influence of the storage period was taken into consideration. Together, these data suggest that no overall long‐term effects on NK‐cell function and T‐cell cytokine production are present in the Danish Gulf War personnel. Moreover, cryopreservation is a major potential source of bias when studying the physiology of thawed NK and T cells.
TNF‐α‐mediated multiplication of human immunodeficiency virus in chronically infected monocytoid cells by mycobacterial infection
Authors: Kitaura Hideki , Ohara Naoya , Kobayashi Kazuhide , Yamada Takeshi
Published: August 2010

Mycobacterial infection is a common occurrence in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome. Incubation of U1, a chronically HIV‐1‐infected human promonocytic cell line, with Mycobacterium smegmatis, M. avium, M. bovis BCG and M. tuberculosis resulted in enhancement of p24 antigen release in the supernatant, indicating that these mycobacteria could activate HIV replication from this cell line. The amount of p24 in the culture infected with M. smegmatis was higher than in cultures infected with other mycobacteria. The amounts of p24 release in cultures infected with M. avium and M. bovis BCG were intermediate. M. tuberculosis slightly stimulated HIV replication. The amount of TNF‐α produced by U1 cells was correlated with the amount of p24 antigen release. The IL‐β and IL‐6 levels in the supernatant from cultures infected with all species were the same. The antibody to TNF‐α inhibited p24 release induced by mycobacterial infections. The anti‐IL‐1β and anti‐IL‐6 antibodies, however, scarcely influenced stimulation of HIV replication by mycobacterial infection. These data suggested that activation of HIV replication by mycobacteria mainly occurred by secondary release of cytokine TNF‐α.
Imaging the surface of Staphylococcus aureus by atomic force microscopy
Authors: Tollersrud Tore , Berge Torunn , Andersen Svein Rune , Lund Arve
Published: August 2010

The surfaces of four strains of Staphylococcus aureus, which differed in their expression of capsular polysaccharides, were examined using atomic force microscopy. The images show that it is possible to get information about surface characteristics of S. aureus using atomic force microscopy (AFM) following simple preparation. Strains Smith Diffuse (serotype 2), Reynolds (serotype 5), Wood‐46 (capsule negative) and JL243 (capsule negative) were grown on medium known to promote the expression of capsular polysaccharides. The bacteria were air‐dried prior to being imaged using tapping‐mode AFM. Differences in the appearance of the bacterial surfaces were evident between the strains. The two capsule‐negative strains exhibited a smooth regular surface, as opposed to the mucoid appearance of the two strains having polysaccharide capsules. Moreover, comparison of images of the heavily encapsulated serotype 2 strain and the serotype 5 strain indicates that a type 2 capsule can be distinguished from a type 5 microcapsule.
Skin wound healing in diabetic β6 integrin‐deficient mice
Authors: JACOBSEN JASPER N. , STEFFENSEN BJØRN , HÄKKINEN LARI , KROGFELT KAREN A. , LARJAVA HANNU S.
Published: August 2010

Jacobsen JN, Steffensen B, Häkkinen L, Krogfelt KA, Larjava HS. Skin wound healing in diabetic β6 integrin‐deficient mice. APMIS 2010; 118: 753–64.

Integrin αvβ6 is a heterodimeric cell surface receptor, which is absent from the normal epithelium, but is expressed in wound‐edge keratinocytes during re‐epithelialization. However, the function of the αvβ6 integrin in wound repair remains unclear. Impaired wound healing in patients with diabetes constitutes a major clinical problem worldwide and has been associated with the accumulation of advanced glycated endproducts (AGEs) in the tissues. AGEs may account for aberrant interactions between integrin receptors and their extracellular matrix ligands such as fibronectin (FN). In this study, we compared healing of experimental excisional skin wounds in wild‐type (WT) and β6‐knockout (β6−/−) mice with streptozotocin‐induced diabetes. Results showed that diabetic β6−/− mice had a significant delay in early wound closure rate compared with diabetic WT mice, suggesting that αvβ6 integrin may serve as a protective role in re‐epithelialization of diabetic wounds. To mimic the glycosylated wound matrix, we generated a methylglyoxal (MG)‐glycated variant of FN. Keratinocytes utilized αvβ6 and β1 integrins for spreading on both non‐glycated and FN‐MG, but their spreading was reduced on FN‐MG. These findings indicated that glycation of FN and possibly other integrin ligands could hamper keratinocyte interactions with the provisional matrix proteins during re‐epithelialization of diabetic wounds.
Dental implants in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: clinical outcome and peri‐implant findings
Authors: Krennmair Gerald , Seemann Rudolf , Piehslinger Eva
Published: August 2010

Krennmair G, Seemann R, Piehslinger E. Dental implants in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: clinical outcome and peri‐implant findings. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 928–936. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01606.x.

Purpose: Implant prosthodontic treatment outcomes for patients suffering from autoimmune rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with or without concomitant connective tissue diseases (CTD) were evaluated.

Material and Methods: Thirty‐four female patients' (25 isolated RA; nine RA+CTD) implant survival/success rate, peri‐implant conditions (marginal bone loss, pocket depth, plaque index, gingiva index and bleeding index) and incidence of prosthodontic maintenance were retrospectively evaluated.

Results: Implants evaluated presented a high implant survival (100%) and a 3.5‐year success (93.8%) rate during the follow‐up programme (mean 47.6 month) without difference between isolated RA (94.6%) and RA and concomitant CTD (92.3%), respectively. In isolated RA, acceptable marginal bone resorption (mean: 2.1 mm; SD: 0.5 mm), pocket depth (mean: 2.8 mm; SD:3.2 mm) and healthy soft‐tissue conditions (plaque/bleeding/gingiva index Grade 0 in 80%) were noticed. However, patients with RA+CTD presented increased bone resorption (mean: 3.1 mm; SD: 0.7 mm) and more vulnerable soft‐tissue conditions (higher bleeding index) differing significantly to patients with isolated RA (p<0.01). Peri‐implant parameters were significantly influenced by the patients' underlying disease (RA, RA+CTD; Kruskal–Wallis test, Jonckheere–Terpstra test).

Conclusions: In contrast to isolated RA, in RA patients with concomitant CTD, differences in the peri‐implant parameters such as pronounced marginal bone resorption and bleeding may be anticipated and appear to be significantly influenced by the patients' underlying disease.
A cost‐effectiveness evaluation of enamel matrix derivatives alone or in conjunction with regenerative devices in the treatment of periodontal intra‐osseous defects
Authors: Listl Stefan , Tu Yu‐Kang , Faggion Jr. Clovis Mariano
Published: August 2010

Listl S, Tu Y‐K, Faggion CM Jr. A cost‐effectiveness evaluation of enamel matrix derivatives alone or in conjunction with regenerative devices in the treatment of periodontal intra‐osseous defects. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 920–927. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01611.x.

Purpose:To identify the most cost‐effective approach to treatment of infrabony lesions with enamel matrix derivatives (EMD).

Methods:We incorporated costs and clinical outcomes of 12 different treatment techniques (including flap operation, EMD alone, and EMD in association with other reconstructive devices) within a decision tree model in which costs were based on insurance regulations in Germany and health outcomes followed a recent meta‐analysis. The most cost‐effective treatment option was identified on the basis of the maximum net benefit criterion.

Results:Treatment techniques using EMD were cost‐efficient if the decision maker's willingness‐to‐pay (WTP) was at least €150–175 per incremental mm of pocket probing depth reduction and clinical attachment level gain, respectively (1‐year perspective). When EMD was affordable, the maximum net benefit was achieved by treatment with EMD in conjunction with bioactive glass or bovine bone substitutes. Additional application of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) or a resorbable membrane came at relatively high costs.

Conclusions:If EMD use is indicated, EMD in conjunction with either bioactive glass or bovine bone substitutes is more cost‐effective than EMD alone. The additional use of PRP or a resorbable membrane may only be justifiable when monetary resources for treatment are very generous.
Equine alopecia areata autoantibodies target multiple hair follicle antigens and may alter hair growth
Authors: Tobin D. J. , Alhaidari Z. , Olivry T.
Published: August 2010

Several cases of an alopecia areata (AA)‐like disease have been reported in mammalian species. How similar this disorder(s) is to human AA is unclear. We have previously shown that human AA is associated with antibodies to hair follicle (HF)‐specific antigens and that similar antibody reactivities also occur in the C3H/HeJ “AA” murine model and in dogs with spontaneously occurring AA. The current preliminary study was conducted to determine whether a horse with AA‐like hair loss contained circulating antibodies to HF. The pathogenic potential of these antibodies was examined by passive transfer into anagen skin of C57BL/10 black mice. Indirect immunofluorescence analysis indicated that the equine “AA” serum reacted intensely with the inner root sheath, outer root sheath and pre‐cortex of equine HF. Immunoblot examination revealed antibodies to a 200‐220 kDa doublet and to antigens of 40‐60 kDa. Notably, this serum, but not control serum, contained antibodies that selectively immunoprecipitated trichohyalin from HF protein extracts. IgG fractions of serum obtained from an “AA” horse and from a normal control horse were injected into anagen murine skin. Histologically, normal hair regrowth was observed in mice injected with normal equine IgG. By contrast, hair did not re‐grow in an area around the injection site of AA‐treated mice even 13 weeks after first injection. This skin contained telogen follicles, most often without associated shafts, despite the presence of anagen HF in the remaining dorsum skin. While this study is preliminary, it demonstrates for the first time that antibodies to HF antigens are a feature of AA‐like hair loss in horses. Some reactivities (e.g. against trichohyalin) were similar to those previously observed in “AA” dogs. Further, we provide in this pilot study preliminary evidence that such antibodies may disrupt hair re‐growth when passively transferred into mice, supporting the view that anti‐HF antibodies in AA may have pathogenic potential.
E‐ and P‐cadherin expression during murine hair follicle morphogenesis and cycling
Authors: Müller‐Röver S. , Tokura Y. , Welker P. , Furukawa F. , Wakita H. , Takigawa M. , Paus R.
Published: August 2010

The role of adhesion molecules in the control of hair follicle (HF) morphogenesis, regression and cycling is still rather enigmatic. Since the adhesion molecules E‐ and P‐cadherin (Ecad and Pcad) are functionally important, e.g. during embryonic pattern formation, we have studied their expression patterns during neonatal HF morphogenesis and cycling in C57/BL6 mice by immunohistology and semi‐quantitative RT‐PCR. The expression of both cadherins was strikingly hair cycle‐dependent and restricted to distinct anatomical HF compartments. During HF morphogenesis, hair bud keratinocytes displayed strong Ecad and Pcad immunoreactivity (IR). While neonatal epidermis showed Ecad IR in all epidermal layers, Pcad IR was restricted to the basal layer. During later stages of HF morphogenesis and during anagen IV‐VI of the adolescent murine hair cycle, the outer root sheath showed strong E‐ and Pcad IR. Instead, the outermost portion of the hair matrix and the inner root sheath displayed isolated Ecad IR, while the innermost portion of the hair matrix exhibited isolated Pcad IR. During telogen, all epidermal and follicular keratinocytes showed strong Ecad IR. This is in contrast to Pcad, whose IR was stringently restricted to matrix and secondary hair germ keratinocytes which are in closest proximity to the dermal papilla. These findings suggest that isolated or combined E‐ and/or Pcad expression is involved in follicular pattern formation by segregating HF keratinocytes into functionally distinct subpopulations; most notably, isolated Pcad expression may segregate those hair matrix keratinocytes into one functional epithelial tissue unit, which is particularly susceptible to growth control by dermal papilla‐derived morphogens. The next challenge is to define which secreted agents implicated in hair growth control modulate these follicular cadherin expression patterns, and to define how these basic parameters of HF topobiology are altered during common hair growth disorders.
Microinjection of an antibody against HSP 72 in keratinocytes to study acute UV injury⊃
Authors: Bayerl C. , Jung E. G.
Published: August 2010

First, a method of microinjection of antibodies in primary human keratinocytes in culture was established. Second, in acute UV irradiation, the physiological role of heat shock protein (HSP) 72 in keratinocytes was studied with this method. Primary human keratinocytes in culture were injected with “controls” as fluorescent dyes, phosphate buffered saline (PBS), an irrelevant secondary antibody and an antibody against a protein with known protective function in UV erythema, HSP 72. UV irradiation was applied and survival, colony forming and immunohistochemistry for injected and non‐injected keratinocytes were evaluated in a time course. Puncturing the plasma membrane with injections of “controls” as FITC, PBS and the IgG anti‐mouse antibody did not result in reflux of injected material or any alteration in morphology or colony‐forming ability for 24 h. Keratinocytes injected with an mAb to HSP 72 without UV irradiation survived microinjection for up to 12 days, while surprisingly, more than double of injected and irradiated ones died after 12 h compared to not injected and irradiated ones. Moreover, microinjection of the antibody to HSP 72 in the nucleus resulted in a loss of the immunohistochemical labeling for HSP 72 in these cells after 12 h. Microinjection of the “controls” did not harm the survival, forming of colonies and expression of HSP 72 in keratinocytes for 24 h. In contrast, microinjection of an mAb against HSP 72 led to an increase in cell death after UV irradiation, confirming that HSP 72 is important for UV protection. Microinjection of antibodies in human keratinocytes in culture might allow the study of the physiological role of some proteins.
Huan normal dermal fibroblasts express somatostain receptors
Authors: Gaudillére A. , Bernard C. , Abello J. , Schmitt D. , Claudy A. , Misery L.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:The hormone/neuropeptide somatostatin (SOM) exerts multiple functions in the central nervous system, the immune system, the hypothalamo‐pituitary axis, the gastrointestinal tract, and the pancreas. Endogenous SOM occurs in 2 biologically active forms, with 14 or 28 amino acids. Five subtypes of SOM reporters have been cloned. SOM is present in human skin. We have investigated the expression of SOM receptors on human dermal normal fibroblasts. Biotinyl‐SOM allowed the visualization of SOM receptors on human dermal fibroblasts. Radioligand binding with (3‐[125I]iodotyrosy]11)‐SOM‐14 were performed on these cells and the effect of SOM‐14 on the DNA synthesis by fibroblasts was evaluated by measuring [3H]‐methyl thymidine incorporation. Saturation curve, and Scatchard plot showed a homogeneous class of receptors with a Bmaxof 0.055±0.023 nM and KDof 2.0±0.4 nM (values: mean±SEM). Fibroblasts expressed 3,317±1,385 binding sites per cell. Commpetitive displacement experiments showed that SOM‐14 IC50was 69.3±4.5 nM (mean±SEM), for SOM‐28 33.2±6.0 nM and for octreotide 36.5±3.3 nM. The KIvalues calculated from these IC50were, respectively: 62.4±4.1 nM; 29.9±5.4 nm; 32.9±2.9 nM. We conclude that subtype 2 or 3 SOM receptros is present on human normal dermal fibroblasts. A weak effect of SOM‐14 on DNA synthesis was observed with SOM concentrations of 10‐7and 10‐6M.
Opioid receptors in skin – link between stress and skin disease?
Authors: Bigliardi‐Qi M. , Gaveriaux‐Ruff C. , Hohl D. , Bigliardi P. L.
Published: August 2010

Opioid peptides and its receptors are highly conserved and crucial for survival in stress situations. Besides their well‐known role in antinociception, they control cell differentiation and proliferation and influence apoptosis in various tissues. We are first to discover their presence in skin and to establish their functions in modulation of chronic itch and wound healing.

µ‐Opioid receptor is a key player in induction of chronic itch. This could be confirmed using µ‐opiate receptor knockout mice experiments and clinical studies on patients with chronic itch. We have induced a dry skin dermatitis as a model for chronic itching on knockout and wild type mice. µ‐Opioid receptor knockout mice revealed significant less scratching behavior, less epidermal hypertrophy and different density and quality of epidermal nerve endings compared to the wild type mice. In addition, topically applied opioid receptor antagonists relieved significantly chronic pruritus in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over study in 40 patients with atopic dermatitis.

Several findings suggest that the δ‐opioid receptor and its endogenous ligands (enkephalins) are important in cell differentiation and proliferation. We proved the existence of a functional active δ‐opioid receptor in different skin cells using RT‐PCR, Western blot analysis and migration assays. In addition, δ‐opioid receptor knockout mice revealed a phenotype of thinner epidermis and higher expression of cell differentiation marker cytokeratin 10 (CK 10) compared to wild‐type mice. In a burn wound model, δ‐opioid receptor knockout mice showed significant wound healing delay and a severe epidermal hypertrophy at the wound margin. This can be explained by a change of cell differentiation and migration due to the absence of a functional active δ‐opioid receptor.

In summary, these experiments proved that the skin and the nervous system interact with each other in a bi‐directional way, i.e. nervous system releases neuropeptides in stress situations affecting skin homeostasis and sensations and vice versa.

Therefore, the opioid receptor system is an excellent model to study the connection between psychological stress and aggravation of different skin diseases.
Human mast cells in the neurohormonal network: expression of POMC, detection of precursor proteases, and evidence for IgE‐dependent secretion of alpha‐MSH
Authors: Artuc M. , Grützkau A. , Zuberbier T. , Henz B. M. , Luger T. A. , Böhm M.
Published: August 2010

Human mast cells have been shown to release histamine in response to the neuropeptide α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (alpha‐MSH), but it is unknown whether these cells express proopiomelanocortin (POMC) or POMC‐derived peptides. We therefore examined highly purified human skin mast cells and a leukemic mast cell line (HMC‐1) for their ability to express POMC and members of the prohormone convertase (PC) family known to process POMC. Furthermore, we investigated whether these cells store and secrete α‐MSH. RT‐PCR analysis revealed that both skin mast cells and HMC‐1 cells express POMC mRNA and protein. Expression of the POMC gene at the RNA level in HMC‐1 cells could be confirmed by Northern blotting. Transcripts for both PC1 and furin convertase were detectable in skin‐derived mast cells and HMC‐1 cells, as shown by RT‐PCR. In contrast, PC2 transcripts were detected only in skin mast cells, while transcripts for PACE4 were present only in HMC‐1 cells. Radioimmunoassays performed on cell lysates and cell culture supernatants from human skin‐derived mast cells disclosed immunoreactive amounts of alpha‐MSH in both fractions. Stimulation with an anti‐IgE antibody significantly reduced intracellular alpha‐MSH and increased extracellular levels, indicating IgE‐mediated secretion of this neuropeptide. Our findings show that human mast cells are active players in the cutaneous POMC system. Mast cell‐derived alpha‐MSH may contribute to cutaneous hyperpigmentation as seen in patients with urticaria pigmentosa. Moreover, IgE‐dependent release of alpha‐MSH suggests an immunomodulatory role of this neurohormone during inflammatory and allergic reactions of the skin.
Targeted ablation ofAbcc1orAbcc3inAbcc6−/−mice does not modify the ectopic mineralization process
Authors: Li Qiaoli , Jiang Qiujie , LaRusso Jennifer , Klement John F. , Sartorelli Alan C. , Belinsky Martin G. , Kruh Gary D. , Uitto Jouni
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is a heritable disorder characterized by ectopic mineralization of connective tissues, with considerable intra‐ and interfamiliar phenotypic variability. PXE is caused by mutations in theABCC6gene, which encodes a transporter protein, MRP6, and targeted ablation ofAbcc6in mice recapitulates the manifestations of PXE. In this study, we examined the hypothesis that the expression of other members of theAbccfamily may be altered inAbcc6null mice, possibly explaining the phenotypic variability because of the functional overlap of these transporters. Analysis of the transcript levels ofAbcc1–10and12in the liver ofAbcc6 −/−mice by quantitative RT‐PCR indicated that the levels of otherCfamily mRNAs were not significantly different from wild‐type mice. Next, we developedAbcc6/1−/−andAbcc6/3−/−double null mice and examined them for tissue mineralization. Histopathologic examination, coupled with computerized morphometric analysis, and chemical assay of calcium × phosphate product in the muzzle skin ofAbcc1−/−andAbcc3−/−mice did not reveal evidence of mineralization.Abcc6/1−/−andAbcc6/3−/−double knock‐out mice exhibited connective tissue mineralization similar to that inAbcc6 −/−mice. These results emphasize the importance of theAbcc6gene in the ectopic mineralization process and further suggest that other members of theAbccfamily, particularlyAbcc1andAbcc3, do not modulate the effects ofAbcc6in this mouse model.
Motor impairment in Alzheimer’s disease and transgenic Alzheimer’s disease mouse models
Authors: Wirths O. , Bayer T. A.
Published: August 2010

In this commentary, we accent the accumulating evidence for motor impairment as a common feature of early Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology. In addition, we summarize the state of knowledge on this phenotype in experimental mouse models, expressing AD‐associated genes like tau or amyloid precursor protein.
One‐year longitudinal evaluation of sensorimotor functions in APP751SL transgenic mice
Authors: Le Cudennec C. , Faure A. , Ly M. , Delatour B.
Published: August 2010

Intracerebral amyloid‐beta (Aβ) peptide deposition is considered to play a key role in Alzheimer’s disease and is designated as a principal therapeutic target. The relationship between brain Aβ levels and clinical deficits remains, however, unclear, both in human patients and in animal models of the disease. The purpose of the present study was to investigate, in a transgenic mouse model of brain amyloidosis, the consequences of Aβ deposition on basic neurological functions using a longitudinal approach. Animals were phenotyped at different ages corresponding to graded neuropathological stages (from no extracellular Aβ deposition to high amyloid loads). Sensory functions were evaluated by assessing visual and olfactory abilities and did not show any effects of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) transgene. Motor functions were assessed using multiple experimental paradigms. Results showed that motor strength was considerably reduced in APP transgenic mice compared with control animals. No deficit was noted in a motor coordination test although APP transgenic mice displayed decreased locomotion on a stationary beam. Hypolocomotion was also observed in the standard open‐field test. Measures of anxiety obtained in the elevated plus‐maze show some evidence of hyperanxiety in 15‐month‐old transgenic mice. Some of the neurological impairments showed by APP mice had an early onset and worsened with progressive aging, in parallel to gradual accumulation of Aβ in brain parenchyma. Relationships between neuropathologically assessed amyloid loads and behavioral deficits were further explored, and it was observed that motor strength deficits were correlated with cortical amyloid burden.
Comparison of pedometer and accelerometer measures of physical activity during preschool time on 3‐ to 5‐year‐old children
Authors: Pagels Peter , Boldemann Cecilia , Raustorp Anders
Published: August 2010

Aims:  To compare pedometer steps with accelerometer counts and to analyse minutes of engagement in light, moderate and vigorous physical activity in 3‐ to 5‐year‐old children during preschool time.

Methods:  Physical activity was recorded during preschool time for five consecutive days in 55 three‐ to five‐year‐old children. The children wore a Yamax SW200 pedometer and an Actigraph GTIM Monitor.

Results:  The average time spent at preschool was 7.22 h/day with an average step of 7313 (±3042). Steps during preschool time increased with increasing age. The overall correlation between mean step counts and mean accelerometer counts (r = 0.67, p < 0.001), as well as time in light to vigorous activity (r = 0.76, p < 0.001), were moderately high. Step counts and moderate to vigorous physical activity minutes were poorly correlated in 3 years old (r = 0.19, p < 0.191) and moderately correlated (r = 0.50, p < 0.001) for children 4 to 5 years old.

Conclusion:  Correlation between the preschool children’s pedometer‐determined step counts and total engagement in physical activity during preschool time was moderately high. Children’s step counts at preschool were low, and the time spent in moderate and vigorous physical activity at preschool was very short.
New Evidence on the Urbanization of Global Poverty
Authors: Ravallion Martin , Chen Shaohua , Sangraula Prem
Published: August 2010

One‐quarter of the world's consumption poor live in urban areas, and that proportion has been rising over time. Over 1993–2002, the count of the “$1 a day” poor fell by 150 million in rural areas but rose by 50 million in urban areas. The poor have been urbanizing even more rapidly than the population as a whole. By fostering economic growth, urbanization helped reduce absolute poverty in the aggregate. There are marked regional differences: Latin America has the most urbanized poverty problem, East Asia has the least; there has been a “ruralization” of poverty in Eastern Europe and Central Asia; in marked contrast to other regions, Africa's urbanization process has not been associated with falling overall poverty.
CAUDAL VENOUS RETURN THROUGH A LEFT AZYGOS VEIN IN A DOG
Authors: Sammarco Carl D. , Regan Joan , Ward Cynthia R. , Buchanan James D.
Published: August 2010

The Clinical, radiologic and echocardiographic findings in a one‐year old dog with mild subvalvular aortic stenosis and aberrant caudal vena circulation are described. Aberrant systemic venous return to the right side of the heart usually has little clinical significance, but the unusual features in survey radiographs, contrast angiograms and contrast echocardiograms constitute the reasons for this report.
A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TRACHEAL COLLAPSE AND BRONCHIECTASIS IN DOGS
Authors: MAROLF ANGELA , BLAIK MARGARET , SPECHT ANDREW
Published: August 2010

Tracheal collapse is common in middle age toy and miniature breed dogs. Cartilaginous defects have been identified histologically and are considered a form of chondromalacia. In addition to tracheal cartilaginous changes, concurrent lower airway histologic changes indicative of inflammation have been noted in dogs with tracheal collapse and these changes may lead to concurrent bronchiectasis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of bronchiectasis in dogs with a previous radiographic diagnosis of tracheal collapse. The thoracic radiographs of 60 dogs with tracheal collapse were evaluated for evidence of concurrent bronchiectasis. Eighteen of 60 (30%) dogs had evidence of bronchiectasis, and all were cylindrical in morphology. The signalment of affected dogs was similar to that previously reported. The occurrence of bronchiectasis in this group of dogs with tracheal collapse (18 dogs) was six times higher (P<0.05) than the expected prevalence within a random sample population (three dogs). The results of this study provide evidence of a link between tracheal collapse and bronchiectasis. A finding of bronchiectasis with tracheal collapse should encourage further evaluation for chronic lower airway disease in these patients.
USE OF INTRAOPERATIVE ULTRASONOGRAPHY IN CANINE SPINAL CORD LESIONS
Authors: NANAI BEATRIX , LYMAN RONALD , BICHSEL PIERRE S.
Published: August 2010

The purpose of this retrospective study was to describe the intraoperative appearance of various spinal cord conditions, and to investigate how intraoperative ultrasonography assisted in modification of surgical and postoperative treatment plans. Intraoperative ultrasonography (B‐mode, and power Doppler mode) was used in 25 dogs undergoing spinal surgery. The neurologic conditions included cervical spondylomyelopathy, intervertebral disc (IVD) protrusion, IVD extrusion, spinal tumors, nerve sheath mass, granulomatous myelitis, and discospondylitis. All of these diagnoses were supported by histopathologic and/or cytologic evaluation. It was possible to visualize the spinal cord and the abnormal spinal tissue in all of the patients. Power Doppler imaging allowed assessment of the spinal cord microcirculation, and assisted in judgment of the degree of decompression. Ultrasound imaging directly impacted the surgical and the medical treatment plans in four patients. Owing to the intraoperative imaging, two hemilaminectomies were extended cranially and caudally, and additional disc spaces were fenestrated, one hemilaminectomy site was extended dorsally to retrieve the disc material from the opposite side, and one intramedullary cervical spinal cord lesion was discovered, aspirated, and consequently diagnosed as granulomatous inflammation, which altered the long‐term medication protocol in that dog. This study suggests that intraoperative sonographic spinal cord imaging is a useful and viable technique.
EFFECTS OF SEDATION WITH MIDAZOLAM AND BUTORPHANOL ON RESISTIVE AND PULSATILITY INDICES IN HEALTHY DOGS
Authors: NOVELLAS ROSA , RUIZ DE GOPEGUI RAFAEL , ESPADA YVONNE
Published: August 2010

Resistive index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) are indirect measurements of blood flow resistance that may be measured by pulsed wave Doppler ultrasonography. Chemical restrain may potentially alter the indices although it is required to perform ultrasonography in some patients. The purpose of this study was to describe values for both intrarenal and ocular RI and PI within the same subject in clinically normal dogs sedated with a midazolam and butorphanol combination and evaluate if there are any significant changes between sedated and nonsedated dogs. Fifteen healthy Beagle dogs were studied by Duplex Doppler interrogation in interlobar or arcuate arteries of the kidney and long posterior ciliary artery. Pulse rate and systolic blood pressure were also determined. All measurements were recorded before and after the administration of a sedative combination of midazolam (0.2 mg/kg) and butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg). Mean comparison tests (pairedt‐tests or Wilcoxon's rank‐sum test) were used to determine if any significant differences existed between right and left renal values or right and left ocular values. A correlation study (Pearson or Spearman) was applied between RI, PI, and systolic pressure, and pulse rate. RI and PI were significantly higher in sedated Beagles than in unsedated Beagles. There was neither correlation between index and systolic blood pressure nor pulse rate. In conclusion, provided that normal RI and PI increase in sedated animals, then reference ranges should be higher when sedated—healthy or ill—animals are evaluated.
COMPARISON OF ISODOSE DISTRIBUTIONS IN CANINE BRAIN IN HETEROGENEITY‐CORRECTED VERSUS UNCORRECTED TREATMENT PLANS USING 6 MV PHOTONS
Authors: LYONS J. , THRALL D.E. , PRUITT A.F.
Published: August 2010

Magnetic resonance (MR) images may be useful for radiation planning due to greater contrast resolution. One disadvantage of MR images for radiation planning is the inability to incorporate electron density information into the dose calculation algorithm. To assess the magnitude of this problem, we evaluated radiation dose distribution in canine brain by comparing computed tomography (CT)‐based radiotherapy plans with and without electron density correction. Computerized radiotherapy plans were generated for 13 dogs with brain tumors using 6 MV photons. A tissue‐contouring program was used to outline the gross tumor volume (GTV) and the planning target volume (PTV) for each patient. Two treatment plans were generated for each dog. First, the plan was optimized without heterogeneity correction. Then the heterogeneity correction was implemented without changing any other plan parameters. Isodose distributions and dose volume histograms (DVHs) were used to compare the two plans. The D95 (dose delivered to 95% of the volume) within the PTV was calculated for each treatment plan and differences in the D95s were compared. The mean D95s without and with heterogeneity correction were 49.1±0.7 and 48.9±1.0Gy, respectively. The absolute mean percent dose difference without and with heterogeneity correction was 1.0±0.9% (−1.3–3.2%) and was not considered to be clinically significant. We found no clinically significant difference between CT‐based radiotherapy plans without and with heterogeneity correction for brain tumors in small animals, which supports the use of MR‐based treatment planning for radiotherapy of small animal brain tumors.
POSTMORTEM ABDOMINAL RADIOGRAPHIC FINDINGS IN FELINE CADAVERS
Authors: HENG HOCK GAN , TEOH WEN TIAN , SHEIKH‐OMAR ABDUL RAHMAN
Published: August 2010

Postmortem radiographic examinations of animals are commonly performed in judicial investigations to rule out gunshot and fractures. However, there was no available data on radiographic postmortem changes of animals. Forty‐one sets of abdominal radiographs of feline cadavers made within 12 h of death were evaluated for postmortem changes. Intravascular gas was detected in 11 of 41 (27%) cadavers. The most common site of intravascular gas was the liver. Intravascular gas was also present in the aorta, femoral artery, celiac and cranial mesenteric arteries, and caudal superficial epigastric artery. Intrasplenic gas was detected in two cadavers. Only two cadavers had distended small intestine. One cadaver had pneumatosis coli. The changes detected were most likely due to putrefaction.
COMPARISON OF ULTRASONOGRAPHIC FINDINGS WITH CLINICAL ACTIVITY INDEX (CIBDAI) AND DIAGNOSIS IN DOGS WITH CHRONIC ENTEROPATHIES
Authors: GASCHEN LORRIE , KIRCHER PATRICK , STÜSSI ANJA , ALLENSPACH KARIN , GASCHEN FRÉDÉRIC , DOHERR MARCUS , GRÖNE ANDREA
Published: August 2010

Intestinal wall thickness is neither a specific nor sensitive ultrasound parameter for detecting intestinal inflammation. We hypothesize that mucosal echogenicity, lymphadenomegaly, and secondary findings of the gastrointestinal tract would be more sensitive and specific markers for detecting and differentiating causes of chronic inflammatory bowel disease in dogs. Fifty‐six client‐owned dogs with chronic diarrhea and 10 control dogs were examined with two‐dimensional, gray‐scale ultrasound (time 0, 4, and 10 weeks post therapy) and small intestinal mucosal biopsies were performed at the 0‐ and 4‐week time points. The clinical activity was assessed at each time point using the canine inflammatory bowel disease activity index (CIBDAI). Fifty‐one dogs had inflammatory infiltration of the duodenal mucosa and were divided into three groups, food‐responsive disease, idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease, and protein‐losing enteropathy, based on their response to the different treatments and histology. Two different patterns of increased echogenicity of the mucosa were detected: hyperechoic speckles and hyperechoic striations. A normal, hypoechoic bowel mucosa in dogs with chronic diarrhea had a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 81% for the diagnosis of food‐responsive disease. Hyperechoic striations had a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 96% for dogs with protein‐losing enteropathy. Hyperechoic speckles were non‐specific for diagnosing inflammatory bowel disease. There was a significant relationship between ultrasound score and CIBDAI at t0, but not following therapy. Mucosal echogenicity may be a better parameter for detecting inflammatory bowel disease than bowel wall thickness in dogs with chronic diarrhea.
INTRODUCTION TO DICOM FOR THE PRACTICING VETERINARIAN
Authors: WRIGHT MATTHEW A. , BALLANCE DENNIS , ROBERTSON IAN D. , POTEET BRIAN
Published: August 2010

Digital Imaging and Communication in Medicine (DICOM) is a communication protocol that imaging devices use to communicate. The universal acceptance of the DICOM standard by the major medical vendors means that the digital transition in veterinary medicine should be relatively smooth provided DICOM is used. DICOM service objects, roles, service classes, and conformance standards are discussed. The authors strongly encourage the use of image acquisition software and image archive systems that support the DICOM standard.
DIGITAL RADIOGRAPHY ARTIFACTS
Authors: DROST WM TOD , REESE DAVID J. , HORNOF WILLIAM J.
Published: August 2010

Radiographic artifacts may mimic a clinical feature, impair image quality, or obscure abnormalities. With the development of digital radiography (DR), a new set of artifacts is introduced. Regardless of the technology, the classic technical errors that occur with film screen radiography still occur using DR. Artifacts created using computed radiography, DR, and incorrect image processing are discussed. Methods for correction of the artifacts are presented.
DIURETIC RENAL SCINTIGRAPHY IN NORMAL CATS
Authors: HECHT SILKE , LANE INDIA F. , DANIEL GREGORY B. , MORANDI FEDERICA , SHARP DOROTHY E.
Published: August 2010

The purpose of this study was to develop a protocol for diuretic renal scintigraphy (renography) in cats and describe normal findings.99mTc‐DTPA renal scintigraphy was performed twice in 10 healthy cats. Furosemide or saline were injected 4.5 min after radiopharmaceutical administration for the diuretic or control scan, respectively. A dynamic acquisition was performed for 8 min. The following parameters were evaluated: (1) global and individual glomerular filtration rate (GFR); (2) shape of the time–activity curve (TAC); (3) time of peak (TOP); (4) individual kidney excretion half‐time (T1/2) of the radiopharmaceutical; (5) percentage of maximum activity measured at the end of the study. Global GFR in the control studies (2.79±0.83 ml/min/kg, mean±SD) did not differ significantly from the diuretic scans (2.34±0.51 ml/min/kg). The shape of most (16/20) TAC of diuretic renograms was similar to those of control renograms. The TOP of the diuretic renogram curves was 3.06±0.58 min, and did not differ from that of the control scans (3.01±0.61 min).T1/2of the diuretic renograms was significantly shorter (5.15±0.83 min) than that of the control renograms (6.31±1.50 min). A significantly lower percentage of maximum activity was present at the end of the study in diuretic renograms (median: 47.25%; range: 33.60–59.60%) compared with control renograms (63.40%; 30.00–69.40%). Diuretic renal scintigraphy is a noninvasive and fast procedure to perform in cats. The applicability of this technique needs to be investigated in patients with significantly impaired renal function and obstructive uropathies.
EFFECT OF POSITIONING, SCAN PLANE, AND ARTHROGRAPHY ON VISIBILITY OF PERIARTICULAR CANINE SHOULDER SOFT TISSUE STRUCTURES ON MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGES
Authors: AGNELLO KIMBERLY A. , PUCHALSKI SARAH M. , WISNER ERIK R. , SCHULZ KURT S. , KAPATKIN AMY S.
Published: August 2010

This study was performed to determine the effect of shoulder extension and flexion, imaging plane, and intra‐articular paramagnetic contrast medium administration on the visibility of soft tissue structures surrounding the canine shoulder joint using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Eight dogs without shoulder disease were imaged using a 1.5 T MR scanner. In all dogs, T1‐ and T2‐weighted spin‐echo sequences in sagittal, transverse, and dorsal planes, and a sagittal short tau inversion recovery (STIR) sequence were acquired with the shoulder joint in extension. In five dogs, postintravenous contrast medium T1‐weighted images were obtained and in five dogs, MR arthrography was performed in flexion and extension. Each specific soft tissue structure was assigned a visual assessment score of 0–3 and descriptive statistics were calculated. The biceps brachii, supraspinatus, and teres minor muscles and tendons, and the biceps tendon sheath were best seen in the sagittal and transverse planes. The infraspinatus was well‐visualized in all planes, the subscapularis was best seen in the transverse and dorsal planes, and the capsuloligmentous complexes were best seen in the transverse and dorsal planes. Limb extension improved conspicuousness of the medial capsuloligamentous stuctures. Arthrography resulted in greater conspicuousness of the biceps brachii tendon, biceps tendon sheath, infraspinatus, supraspinatus, subscapularis, medial joint capsule, medial glenohumeral ligament, and the lateral joint capsule–glenohumeral ligament complex. The major periarticular anatomic structures of the normal canine shoulder were consistently identified using the protocols described in this investigation, but arthrography with the joint in extension resulted in the best visualization of all structures.
ULNAR METAPHYSEAL OSTEOCHONDROSIS IN SEVEN CAPTIVE BRED CHEETAHS (ACINONYX JUBATUS)
Authors: ALLAN GRAEME , PORTAS TIMOTHY , BRYANT BENN , HOWLETT ROLFE , BLYDE DAVID
Published: August 2010

Distal ulna metaphyseal osteochondrosis was identified in seven captive bred cheetahs raised in Australia between 1984 and 2005. The disorder was characterized by bilateral carpal valgus conformation. In the metaphyseal region of the distal ulnae, an osteolucent defect that appeared as a proximal extension of the lucent physis was identified radiographically between 6 and 10 months of age. Ulna ostectomy was done to correct the angular limb deformity. Histologically, changes were identified in the osteolucent lesion that resembled osteochondrosis. We propose that the condition is probably familial and/or dietary in origin.
IS A MAGIC ANGLE EFFECT OBSERVED IN THE COLLATERAL LIGAMENTS OF THE DISTAL INTERPHALANGEAL JOINT OR THE OBLIQUE SESAMOIDEAN LIGAMENTS DURING STANDING MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING?
Authors: SMITH MEREDITH A. , DYSON SUE J. , MURRAY RACHEL C.
Published: August 2010

Collagen fibers oriented at 55° to the static magnetic field (B0) are characterized by an artifactual increase in signal intensity due to the magic angle effect. We hypothesized that there would be increased signal intensity in the collateral ligaments of the distal interphalangeal joint and oblique sesamoidean ligaments when these ligaments were at angles approaching 55° to a horizontal B0 during standing magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. MR imaging was performed on four cadaver forelimbs in a 0.27 T standing system. Transverse and dorsal images were obtained using various sequences, with limbs angled at 0°, 4°, 8°, and 12° to the vertical. Images were analyzed and the angle of each ligament to B0 determined. Mean signal intensity in the ligament and cortex of the adjacent phalanx was measured and ratios calculated. With subjective interpretation, there was increased signal intensity in the collateral ligaments of the distal interphalangeal joint and oblique sesamoidean ligaments over ranges of angles of 60–78° and 57–69°, respectively, to B0. In fast spin echo (FSE) sequences, with a long echo time (72 ms), the effect was less pronounced. FSE sequences can help determine the significance of increased signal intensity within tissues. In spite of limited positions of a limb during standing MR imaging compared with horses under general anesthesia, deviation from a vertical posture sufficient to cause a magic angle effect can still occur in both ligaments tested. Conformation may contribute to the occurrence of the magic angle effect during standing MR imaging. Effort should be made to position horses squarely and to minimize leaning during image acquisition.