bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The easy road to genome‐wide medium density SNP screening in a non‐model species: development and application of a 10 K SNP‐chip for the house sparrow (Passer domesticus)
Authors: Hagen Ingerid J. , Billing Anna M. , Rønning Bernt , Pedersen Sindre A. , Pärn Henrik , Slate Jon , Jensen Henrik
Published: March 2013

With the advent of next generation sequencing, new avenues have opened to study genomics in wild populations of non‐model species. Here, we describe a successful approach to a genome‐wide medium density Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) panel in a non‐model species, the house sparrow (Passer domesticus), through the development of a 10 K Illumina iSelect HD BeadChip. Genomic DNA and cDNA derived from six individuals were sequenced on a 454 GS FLX system and generated a total of 1.2 million sequences, in which SNPs were detected. As no reference genome exists for the house sparrow, we used the zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) reference genome to determine the most likely position of each SNP. The 10 000 SNPs on the SNP‐chip were selected to be distributed evenly across 31 chromosomes, giving on average one SNP per 100 000 bp. The SNP‐chip was screened across 1968 individual house sparrows from four island populations. Of the original 10 000 SNPs, 7413 were found to be variable, and 99% of these SNPs were successfully called in at least 93% of all individuals. We used the SNP‐chip to demonstrate the ability of such genome‐wide marker data to detect population sub‐division, and compared these results to similar analyses using microsatellites. The SNP‐chip will be used to map Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) for fitness‐related phenotypic traits in natural populations.
Chronic antioxidant therapy lowers blood pressure in adult but not in young Dahl salt hypertensive rats: the role of sympathetic nervous system
Authors: Vaněčková I. , Vokurková M. , Rauchová H. , Dobešová Z. , Pecháňová O. , Kuneš J. , Vorlíček J. , Zicha J.
Published: March 2013

Aim

It is well‐known that salt hypertension is associated with increased oxidative stress. Since the development of salt hypertension is age‐dependent, we were interested whether young and adult salt hypertensive Dahl rats differ in oxidative stress level and/or in the effects of chronic antioxidant therapy on blood pressure (BP) level and on the participation of particular vasoconstrictor/vasodilator systems in BP maintenance.

Methods

Young (5‐week‐old) and adult (12‐week‐old) salt‐sensitive (Dahl‐S) male rats were fed high‐salt diet (5% NaCl) and drank tempol solution (2 mm) for 5 weeks. BP was monitored with radiotelemetry and vasoconstrictor/vasodilator balance was evaluated at the end of experiment. Moreover, NO synthase activity, superoxide production and lipoperoxidation were determined in heart, kidney and aorta in separate subgroups of Dahl rats.

Results

Tempol treatment had quite opposite BP effects in young and adult Dahl‐S rats. While it tended to increase BP in young salt hypertensive Dahl‐S rats, it significantly lowered BP in the adult ones due to reduced sympathetic vasoconstriction. Importantly, high salt intake substantially reduced NO synthase activity in heart and kidney, and markedly increased superoxide production in kidneys and aorta of adult Dahl‐S rats in which BP correlated positively with superoxide production in thoracic aorta and lipoperoxidation in kidneys.

Conclusion

Chronic antioxidant therapy lowered BP only in adult salt hypertensive Dahl‐S rats in which superoxide levels were increased in both kidneys and aorta. Blood pressure reduction induced by chronic tempol treatment is related to attenuated sympathetic vasoconstriction rather than to augmented NO‐dependent vasodilatation.
Early effects of an x‐ray contrast medium on renal T2*/T2MRI as compared to short‐term hyperoxia, hypoxia and aortic occlusion in rats
Authors: Arakelyan K. , Cantow K. , Hentschel J. , Flemming B. , Pohlmann A. , Ladwig M. , Niendorf T. , Seeliger E.
Published: March 2013

Aim

X‐ray contrast media (CM) can cause acute kidney injury (AKI). Medullary hypoxia is pivotal in CM‐induced AKI, as indicated by invasively and pin‐point measured tissue oxygenation. MRI provides spatially resolved blood oxygenation level–dependent data using T2* and T2 mapping. We studied CM effects on renal T2*/T2 and benchmarked them against short periods of hyperoxia, hypoxia and aortic occlusion (AO).

Methods

Rats were equipped with carotid artery catheters (tip towards aorta) and supra‐renal aortic occluders. T2*/T2 mapping was performed using a 9.4‐T animal scanner. CM (1.5 mL iodixanol) was injected into the thoracic aorta with the animal in the scanner followed by 2 h of T2*/T2 mapping. For T2*/T2 assessment, regions of interest in the cortex (C), outer medulla (OM), inner medulla (IM) and papilla (P) were determined according to morphological features.

Results

Hyperoxia increased T2* in C (by 17%) and all medullary layers (25–35%). Hypoxia decreased T2* in C (40%) and all medullary layers (55–60%). AO decreased T2* in C (18%) and all medullary layers (30–40%). Upon injection of CM, T2* increased transiently, then decreased, reaching values 10–20% below baseline in C and OM and 30–40% below baseline in IM and P.

Conclusion

T2* mapping corroborates data previously obtained with invasive methods and demonstrates that CM injection affects renal medullary oxygenation. CM‐induced T2* decrease in OM was small vs. hypoxia and aortic occlusion. T2* decrease obtained for hypoxia was more pronounced than for AO. This indicates that T2* may not accurately reflect blood oxygenation under certain conditions.
Obesity and lifestyle advice in colorectal cancer survivors – how well are clinicians prepared?
Authors: Anderson A. S. , Caswell S. , Wells M. , Steele R. J. C.
Published: March 2013

Aim

This study aimed to assess colorectal clinicians' knowledge and understanding about the risks and benefits of weight management, to document current practice and to identify perceived barriers to providing lifestyle advice to colorectal cancer survivors.

Method

Questionnaires were sent to 768 clinicians (doctors and nurses) working in colorectal cancer, identified from professional databases. These data were complemented by in‐depth interviews exploring opportunities for and barriers to giving lifestyle advice.

Results

A total of 323 replies were received (42% response rate) and 20 respondents completed in‐depth interviews. Half (52%) reported that they were familiar with guidance for lifestyle advice for cancer survivors. Most (77%) thought reducing weight was important for improving the health of those who were overweight and 75% thought it appropriate to offer lifestyle advice to people with body mass index over 30 kg/m2. Half (50%) reported that weight reduction was an important service priority for normal clinical practice. Half (50%) of respondents said that they would value additional training in this area. Interview data revealed that current practice is influenced by the lack of evidence for the impact of weight management and a belief that ‘weight gain is good and weight loss bad’ in the cancer setting. Patient sensitivity, time available, role constraints and lack of skills in weight management were also factors.

Conclusion

There is an awareness of the importance of weight management amongst colorectal cancer clinicians and some indication of advice being provided. However, current perceptions, knowledge and skills suggest scope for further training.
Good news: methylphenidate for ADHD in epilepsy
Authors: Shalev Ruth
Published: March 2013

This commentary is on the original article by Santos et al. on
pages 654–660 of this issue.
NMR mapping of RANTES surfaces interacting with CCR5 using linked extracellular domains
Authors: Schnur Einat , Kessler Naama , Zherdev Yuri , Noah Eran , Scherf Tali , Ding Fa‐Xiang , Rabinovich Svetlana , Arshava Boris , Kurbatska Victoria , Leonciks Ainars , Tsimanis Alexander , Rosen Osnat , Naider Fred , Anglister Jacob
Published: March 2013

Chemokines constitute a large family of small proteins that regulate leukocyte trafficking to the site of inflammation by binding to specific cell‐surface receptors belonging to the G‐protein‐coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily. The interactions between N–terminal (Nt‐) peptides of these GPCRs and chemokines have been studied extensively using NMR spectroscopy. However, because of the lower affinities of peptides representing the three extracellular loops (ECLs) of chemokine receptors to their respective chemokine ligands, information concerning these interactions is scarce. To overcome the low affinity of ECL peptides to chemokines, we linked two or three CC chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) extracellular domains using either biosynthesis in Escherichia coli or chemical synthesis. Using such chimeras, CCR5 binding to RANTES was followed using 1H‐15N‐HSQC spectra to monitor titration of the chemokine with peptides corresponding to the extracellular surface of the receptor. Nt‐CCR5 and ECL2 were found to be the major contributors to CCR5 binding to RANTES, creating an almost closed ring around this protein by interacting with opposing faces of the chemokine. A RANTES positively charged surface involved in Nt‐CCR5 binding resembles the positively charged surface in HIV‐1 gp120 formed by the C4 and the base of the third variable loop of gp120 (V3). The opposing surface on RANTES, composed primarily of β2–β3 hairpin residues, binds ECL2 and was found to be analogous to a surface in the crown of the gp120 V3. The chemical and biosynthetic approaches for linking GPCR surface regions discussed herein should be widely applicable to the investigation of interactions of extracellular segments of chemokine receptors with their respective ligands.
Comparative glycomics of leukocyte glycosaminoglycans
Authors: Shao Chun , Shi Xiaofeng , White Mitchell , Huang Yu , Hartshorn Kevan , Zaia Joseph
Published: March 2013

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) vary widely in disaccharide and oligosaccharide content in a tissue‐specific manner. Nonetheless, there are common structural features, such as the presence of highly sulfated non‐reducing end domains on heparan sulfate (HS) chains. Less clear are the patterns of expression of GAGs on specific cell types. Leukocytes are known to express GAGs primarily of the chondroitin sulfate (CS) type. However, little is known regarding the properties and structures of the GAG chains, their variability among normal subjects, and changes in structure associated with disease conditions. We isolated peripheral blood leukocyte populations from four human donors and extracted GAGs. We determined the relative and absolute disaccharide abundances for HS and CS GAGs classes using size exclusion chromatography‐mass spectrometry (SEC‐MS). We found that all leukocytes express HS chains with a level of sulfation that is more similar to heparin than to organ‐derived HS. The levels of HS expression follows the trend T cells/B cells > monocytes/natural killer cells > polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs). In addition, CS abundances were considerably higher than total HS but varied considerably in a leukocyte cell type‐specific manner. Levels of CS were higher for myeloid lineage cells (PMNs and monocytes) than for lymphoid cells (B, T and natural killer (NK) cells). This information establishes the range of GAG structures expressed on normal leukocytes and is necessary for subsequent inquiry into disease conditions.
Assessment of reproductive characteristics of Jatropha curcas L. in south Florida
Authors: Nietsche Silvia , Vendrame Wagner A. , Crane Jonathan H. , Pereira Marlon C. T.
Published: March 2013

Jatropha curcas L. (jatropha) is a species identified for biofuel production because of the high quality of the oil produced by its seeds. However, jatropha is undomesticated and little information is available about its reproductive characteristics. Breeding and genetic improvement programs are much needed for the jatropha development as a bioenergy crop. Information about floral display and mode of reproduction are considered essential for breeding programs. In this study, the total number of female flowers, male to female flower ratio, fruit set, in vitro pollen germination, and the formation of fruits by apomixis, self‐pollination, and natural pollination were evaluated in 17 jatropha accessions planted in South Florida. The total number of female flowers per inflorescence and male to female flower ration ranged from 2.8 to 9.1 and 9.9:1 to 55.4 : 1, respectively. During summer 2011, high fruit setting average was observed (75.5%). In vitro pollen germination varied from 64.6% during spring 2011 to 51.6% during fall 2011. The fruit set observed was from 10.1% to 64.0% through natural pollination and apomixes, respectively. Characteristics such as fruit fresh weight, number of seeds per fruit, seed dry weight, and oil content were influenced by mode of reproduction.
The case for indicator condition‐guided HIV screening
Authors: Lazarus JV , Hoekstra M , Raben D , Delpech V , Coenen T , Lundgren JD ,   HIV in Europe Initiative Steering Committee
Published: March 2013

One‐half of the estimated 2.5 million people who now live with HIV in the World Health Organization (WHO) European Region are still diagnosed late. A central question is which clinical scenarios should trigger an HIV test recommendation in order to avoid late presentation. Drawing on the work of the HIV Indicator Diseases across Europe Study (HIDES), new guidance brings together in one place a list of the conditions that should result in an HIV screening recommendation.
IMAGING DIAGNOSIS—MRI CHARACTERISTICS OF A FOURTH VENTRICULAR CHOLESTEROL GRANULOMA IN A DOG
Authors: Lovett Mathew C. , Fenner William R. , Watson Adam T. , Hostutler Roger A.
Published: March 2013

A 2‐year‐old male American Bulldog experienced paroxysmal staggering, altered consciousness, and hyperesthesia. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging enabled recognition of a fourth ventricular mass causing compression of the cerebellum and brainstem and obstructive hydrocephalus. The mass was uniformly T2‐hyperintense and predominantly T1‐hypointense. A fluid line was evident on the fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery images. A thin rim of contrast enhancement was noted. Histopathologic diagnosis was a cholesterol granuloma. We were unable to identify any other reports of a cholesterol granuloma residing in the fourth ventricle of a dog. This case report documents the clinical, diagnostic imaging, and histopathologic findings of a canine intracranial cholesterol granuloma. © 2012 Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound.
HELICAL TOMOTHERAPY SETUP VARIATIONS IN CANINE NASAL TUMOR PATIENTS IMMOBILIZED WITH A BITE BLOCK
Authors: Kubicek Lyndsay N. , Seo Songwon , Chappell Richard J. , Jeraj Robert , Forrest Lisa J.
Published: March 2013

The purpose of our study was to compare setup variation in four degrees of freedom (vertical, longitudinal, lateral, and roll) between canine nasal tumor patients immobilized with a mattress and bite block, versus a mattress alone. Our secondary aim was to define a clinical target volume (CTV) to planning target volume (PTV) expansion margin based on our mean systematic error values associated with nasal tumor patients immobilized by a mattress and bite block. We evaluated six parameters for setup corrections: systematic error, random error, patient–patient variation in systematic errors, the magnitude of patient‐specific random errors (root mean square [RMS]), distance error, and the variation of setup corrections from zero shift. The variations in all parameters were statistically smaller in the group immobilized by a mattress and bite block. The mean setup corrections in the mattress and bite block group ranged from 0.91 mm to 1.59 mm for the translational errors and 0.5°. Although most veterinary radiation facilities do not have access to Image‐guided radiotherapy (IGRT), we identified a need for more rigid fixation, established the value of adding IGRT to veterinary radiation therapy, and define the CTV–PTV setup error margin for canine nasal tumor patients immobilized in a mattress and bite block. © 2012 Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound.
IMAGING DIAGNOSIS—MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING FINDINGS OF AN INTRACRANIAL EPIDURAL TUBERCULOMA IN A DOG
Authors: Fuente Cristian de la , Pumarola Martí , Ródenas Sergio , Foradada Laia , Lloret Albert , Pérez de Val Bernat , Añor Sònia
Published: March 2013

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is highly sensitive for detecting tuberculomas in human patients but the specificity of the MR imaging features is low. Misdiagnosis with intracranial neoplasia is common, especially with dural‐based lesions or lesions located in the epidural space. We describe the MR imaging characteristics of an intracranial epidural tuberculoma caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in a dog. The intracranial mass and skull flat bone lysis and erosion are similar to those described in human caseating tuberculomas and can mimic intracranial neoplastic disease.
CLINICAL, MORPHOLOGIC, AND MORPHOMETRIC FEATURES OF CRANIAL THORACIC SPINAL STENOSIS IN LARGE AND GIANT BREED DOGS
Authors: Johnson Philippa , De Risio Luisa , Sparkes Andrew , McConnell Fraser , Holloway Andrew
Published: March 2013

The clinical, morphologic, and morphometric features of cranial thoracic spinal stenosis were investigated in large and giant breed dogs. Seventy‐nine magnetic resonance imaging studies of the cranial thoracic spine were assessed. Twenty‐six were retrieved retrospectively and 53 were acquired prospectively using the same inclusion criteria. Images were evaluated using a modified compression scale as: no osseous stenosis (grade 0), osseous stenosis without spinal cord compression (grade 1), and osseous stenosis with spinal cord compression (grade 2). Morphometric analysis was performed and compared to the subjective grading system. Grades 1 and 2 cranial thoracic spinal stenosis were identified on 24 imaging studies in 23 dogs. Sixteen of 23 dogs had a conformation typified by Molosser breeds and 21/23 were male. The most common sites of stenosis were T2–3 and T3–4. The articular process joints were enlarged with abnormal oblique orientation. Stenosis was dorsolateral, lateralized, or dorsoventral. Concurrent osseous cervical spondylomyelopathy was recognized in six dogs and other neurologic disease in five dogs. Cranial thoracic spinal stenosis was the only finding in 12 dogs. In 9 of these 12 dogs (all grade 2) neurolocalization was to the T3‐L3 spinal segment. The median age of these dogs was 9.5 months. In the remaining three dogs neurologic signs were not present. Stenosis ratios were of limited benefit in detecting stenotic sites. Grade 2 cranial thoracic spinal stenosis causing direct spinal cord compression may lead to neurologic signs, however milder stenosis (grade 1) is likely to be subclinical or incidental.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING CHARACTERISTICS OF SUSPECTED VERTEBRAL INSTABILITY ASSOCIATED WITH FRACTURE OR SUBLUXATION IN ELEVEN DOGS
Authors: Johnson Philippa , Beltran Elsa , Dennis Ruth , Taeymans Olivier
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this study was to describe the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics of suspected instability in dogs with vertebral fractures or subluxations. Eleven dogs that hadMRIexaminations of the spine prior to surgical stabilization of vertebral fractures and/or subluxations were included in the study. Nine dogs also had survey radiographs. Four dogs had cervical fracture or fracture‐subluxation and presented with tetraplegia with intact nociception (n= 2) or nonambulatory tetraparesis (n= 2). Seven dogs had thoracolumbar fracture‐subluxation or subluxation and presented with paraplegia with intact nociception (n= 5) or nonambulatory paraparesis (n= 2). A three‐compartment model was applied to the interpretation of both the radiographic andMRIstudies. Radiography identified compartmental disruption consistent with spinal instability in seven out of the nine cases radiographed. InMRIstudies, rupture of the supportive soft tissue structures and/or fracture in at least two compartments could be visualized. Nine cases had spinal cord changes onMRIincluding signal intensity changes, swelling, compression, and intramedullary hemorrhage. Paravertebral muscle intensity changes were also visible at each trauma site. Magnetic resonance imaging provided helpful information on the location and extent of damage to supportive soft tissue structures and enabled assessment of spinal cord injury in this group of dogs with surgically confirmed vertebral fractures and subluxations.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN RADIOGRAPHIC PATTERN AND OUTCOME IN FOALS WITH PNEUMONIA CAUSED BYRhodococcus equi
Authors: Giguère Steeve , Roberts Gregory D.
Published: March 2013

Our objective was to characterize the association between types of radiographic findings and outcome in foals with pneumonia caused byRhodococcus equi. Admission lateral thoracic radiographs of 62 foals with culture‐confirmedR. equipneumonia were reviewed retrospectively. A scoring system was developed to individually assess the severity of alveolar pattern, interstitial pattern, tracheobronchial lymphadenopathy, pleural effusion, and the number of nodular opacities and cavitary lesions. Individual scores were added to obtain a total radiographic score ranging from 0 (normal) to 22. Forty‐three of 62 foals (69%) survived to discharge. The median total radiographic score of nonsurvivors (14; range, 9–16) was significantly (P= 0.007) higher than that of survivors (11; range, 4–15). Foals with a total radiographic score of greater than or equal to 15 were 6.15 times (95%CI: 1.35 to 28.2) less likely to survive than foals with a lower score (P= 0.019). A multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify the potential associations between specific types of radiographic lesions and outcome. The model was statistically significant (P= 0.002) and correctly classified 75.8% of foals. Only severity of alveolar pattern and number of cavitary lesions made statistically significant contributions to the model. There was no significant association between concurrent isolation of other bacteria along withR. equiand the types or severity of radiographic lesions. Based on the results of this study, severity of alveolar pattern and number of cavitary lesions are the radiographic findings significantly associated with a poor outcome in foals withR. equipneumonia.
COMPARISON BETWEEN CLINICAL, ULTRASOUND, CT, MRI, AND PATHOLOGY FINDINGS IN DOGS PRESENTED FOR SUSPECTED THYROID CARCINOMA
Authors: Taeymans Olivier , Penninck Dominique G. , Peters Rachel M.
Published: March 2013

This study compares clinical, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and pathology findings in 16 prospectively, and seven retrospectively recruited dogs presented for suspected thyroid carcinoma. Of these, 17 were confirmed thyroid carcinoma, while six were initially misdiagnosed. These included four carotid body tumors, one para‐esophageal abscess, and one undifferentiated squamous cell carcinoma. Thyroid carcinomas occurred in older dogs without evidence of sex predilection, and were more often unilateral. All were large, heterogeneous, moderately to strongly vascularized, and most commonly contained areas of dystrophic mineralization and/or fluid accumulations. On MRI, thyroid carcinomas appeared hyperintense compared to surrounding musculature in all imaging sequences used, while on CT they had a lower attenuation value than normal thyroid gland tissue. Histologically confirmed tumor capsule disruption with invasion of the surrounding structures was most commonly detected with MRI. Palpation was not an accurate predictor of locally invasive vs. well‐encapsulated masses. Computed tomography had the highest specificity (100%) and MRI had the highest sensitivity (93%) in diagnosing thyroid carcinoma, while ultrasound had considerably lower results. We conclude that ultrasound is adequate for use as a screening tool for dogs with suspected thyroid carcinoma, but recommend either CT or MRI for preoperative diagnosis and staging.
THE EFFECT OF VARYING ECHO TIME USING T2‐WEIGHTED FSE SEQUENCES ON THE MAGIC ANGLE EFFECT IN THE COLLATERAL LIGAMENTS OF THE DISTAL INTERPHALANGEAL JOINT IN HORSES
Authors: Werpy Natasha M. , Ho Charles P. , Garcia E. B. , Kawcak Christopher E.
Published: March 2013

Eight skeletally mature equine cadaver distal forelimbs were imaged using T2‐weighted fast spin echo (FSE) sequences in a 1.0 T horizontal bore magnet. Each limb was parallel to the main magnetic field and with 16° angulation of the limb relative to the main magnetic field, which places one of the collateral ligaments of the distal interphalangeal joint at or near the magic angle. Each limb was imaged using an echo time (TE) of 80, 100, 120, and 140 ms. Reversal of the magic angle effect was achieved at echo time of 140 ms. However, given the alterations in tissue contrast and subjective decrease in the signal‐to‐noise ratio at this TE, it may be preferable to use a shorter TE for clinical imaging. A T2‐weighted FSE sequence with an echo time of 120 ms maintained image quality while subjectively minimizing the magic angle effect. A sequence with long TE can be used to aid in the differentiation of pathologic change from artifactual increases in signal intensity in collateral ligaments of the equine distal interphalangeal joint, but could decrease the sensitivity for small or low contrast lesions. Multiple factors should be considered when selecting the TE for a T2‐weighted FSE sequence that will be utilized in a musculoskeletal protocol including evaluation of equine feet.
EVALUATION OF THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT IN DOGS USING COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY
Authors: Hoey Seamus , Drees Randi , Hetzel Scott
Published: March 2013

Abdominal computed tomography (CT) studies of 19 dogs with no history or clinical signs of gastrointestinal disease, and two dogs with a histological diagnosis of gastrointestinal neoplasia were examined retrospectively. Gastrointestinal segments were evaluated subjectively for conspicuity, contrast enhancement, and wall layering after contrast medium administration. In dogs without gastrointestinal disease, there were 62.8% of gastrointestinal segments (serosa to serosa) and 77.7% of gastrointestinal walls (serosa to mucosa) visualized. Wall layering on postcontrast images was seen in 21.8% of gastrointestinal segments. There was significant association between gastrointestinal diameter and wall thickness. There was significant association between weight and gastrointestinal wall thickness in the following regions: gastric fundus, gastric body, gastric pylorus, gastric pyloric antrum, duodenal cranial flexure, jejunum and ascending colon, and between patient weight and gastrointestinal diameter in cranial duodenal flexure, descending duodenum, transverse duodenum, ascending duodenum, and jejunum. Measurements acquired from CT studies correlated well with previously published normal reference ranges for radiographic and ultrasonographic studies. Gastrointestinal neoplasia, diagnosed in two dogs, had a gastrointestinal wall thickness greater than the range of the dogs without gastrointestinal disease. Computed tomography offers identification of the gastrointestinal tract segments in dogs, allows for evaluation of gastrointestinal diameter and aids in investigation of gastrointestinal wall thickness.
MRI FINDINGS IN 232 HORSES WITH LAMENESS LOCALIZED TO THE METACARPO(TARSO)PHALANGEAL REGION AND WITHOUT A RADIOGRAPHIC DIAGNOSIS
Authors: King Jennifer N. , Zubrod Chad J. , Schneider Robert K. , Sampson Sarah N. , Roberts Greg
Published: March 2013

Two hundred and thirty‐two horses with lameness localized to the metacarpo(tarso)phalangeal (MCP/MTP) region without a radiographic diagnosis were evaluated. All horses had high‐field magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the MCP/MTP region performed for the lame limb and the contralateral limb for comparison. There were 46 horses that had bilateral abnormalities in the forelimbs; 27 of these horses were not lame in the contralateral limb at the time of examination. Bilateral hind limb abnormalities were observed in 37 horses; 22 horses were not lame in the contralateral limb. Soft tissue abnormalities alone were observed in 218 limbs (162 horses). Subchondral bone and articular cartilage abnormalities alone were observed in 43 limbs (34 horses). A combination of soft tissue, subchondral bone, and cartilage abnormalities were observed in 64 limbs (36 horses). The distribution of primary abnormalities was as follows; oblique distal sesamoidean ligament desmitis (73 limbs in 56 horses), straight distal sesamoidean ligament desmitis (44 limbs in 38 horses), chronic subchondral bone injuries (15 limbs in 12 horses), suspensory ligament branch desmitis (14 limbs in 12 horses), collateral ligament desmitis (12 limbs in 12 horses), tendonitis of the superficial and deep digital flexor tendons (10 limbs in 10 horses), osteochondral defects greater than 1 cm (nine limbs in six horses), osteochondral defects less than 1 cm (eight limbs in seven horses), bone marrow lesions (six limbs in five horses), intersesamoidean ligament desmitis (five limbs in four horses). MR imaging is useful in diagnosing bone and soft tissue injuries when radiographs and ultrasound fail to yield a diagnosis.
IMAGING DIAGNOSIS—CHOLANGIOCELLULAR ADENOMA: CONTRAST‐ENHANCED ULTRASONOGRAPHIC FINDINGS OF A BENIGN TUMOR MIMICKING MALIGNANT NEOPLASIA IN A DOG
Authors: Baron Toaldo Marco , Diana Alessia , Bettini Giuliano , Di Donato Pamela , Linta Nikolina , Cipone Mario
Published: March 2013

A 9‐year‐oldGiantSchnauzer was referred for polyuria and polydipsia. On abdominal ultrasound, a hyperechoic mass with low colorDoppler signal was detected in the medial right hepatic lobe. Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) demonstrated increased enhancement of the mass during the arterial phase, and contrast washout during portal and late phases with decreased enhancement relative to the liver. These findings were consistent with primary liver malignancy or liver metastasis. A final diagnosis of cholangiocellular adenoma was made based on histopathology. To our knowledge, this is the first description of a benign hepatic neoplasm exhibiting malignantCEUScharacteristics in a dog.
RADIOGRAPHIC LIVER SIZE IN PEKINGESE DOGS VERSUS OTHER DOG BREEDS
Authors: Choi Jihye , Keh Seoyeon , Kim Hyunwook , Kim Junyoung , Yoon Junghee
Published: March 2013

Differential diagnoses for canine liver disease are commonly based on radiographic estimates of liver size, however little has been published on breed variations. Aims of this study were to describe normal radiographic liver size inPekingese dogs and to compare normal measurements for this breed with other dog breeds andPekingese dogs with liver disease. Liver measurements were compared for clinically normalPekingese (n = 61), normal non‐Pekingese brachycephalic (n = 45), normal nonbrachycephalic (n = 71), andPekingese breed dogs with liver disease (n = 22). For each dog, body weight, liver length,T11 vertebral length, thoracic depth, and thoracic width were measured on right lateral and ventrodorsal abdominal radiographs. Liver volume was calculated using a formula and ratios of liver length/T11 vertebral length and liver volume/body weight ratio were determined. NormalPekingese dogs had a significantly smaller liver volume/body weight ratio (16.73 ± 5.67,P< 0.05) than normal non‐Pekingese brachycephalic breed dogs (19.54 ± 5.03) and normal nonbrachycephalic breed dogs (18.72 ± 6.52). The liver length/T11 vertebral length ratio in normalPekingese (4.64 ± 0.65) was significantly smaller than normal non‐Pekingese brachycephalic breed dogs (5.16 ± 0.74) and normal nonbrachycephalic breed dogs (5.40 ± 0.74). Ratios of liver volume/body weight and liver length/T11 vertebral length in normalPekingese were significantly different fromPekingese with liver diseases (P< 0.05). Findings supported our hypothesis thatPekingese dogs have a smaller normal radiographic liver size than other breeds. We recommend using 4.64× the length of theT11 vertebra as a radiographic criterion for normal liver length inPekingese dogs.
Translating the complexities of flood risk science using KEEPER – a knowledge exchange exploratory tool for professionals in emergency response
Authors: Alexander M. , Viavattene C. , Faulkner H. , Priest S.
Published: March 2013

Within flood risk management (FRM) decision making, there is a growing interest in participatory approaches to engage and integrate stakeholder expertise. Decision support tools are becoming common features in the FRM ‘toolkit’, yet there is a limited application of participatory methodologies in the construction of such tools. This paper reports on completed FRMRC research (Flood Risk Management Research Consortium, UK http://www.floodrisk.org.uk/) and the construction of a geographic information system‐based flood risk assessment tool, KEEPER – a Knowledge Exchange Exploratory tool for Professionals in Emergency Response. An iterative methodology was used to engage emergency professionals throughout the research process, allowing a mixing of scientific and professional expertise in the co‐production of KEEPER. KEEPER was both instrumental in facilitating participation and knowledge exchange, and informing recommendations for future tools in practice. This paper argues that participation is both essential for supporting pragmatic flood research and as a means of enhancing communication across traditionally divided communities.
Estimating monetary damages from flooding in the United States under a changing climate
Authors: Wobus C. , Lawson M. , Jones R. , Smith J. , Martinich J.
Published: March 2013

Extreme precipitation events are likely to become more frequent and more extreme under a changing climate. It follows that monetary damages from flooding would also increase relative to baseline, yet this relationship has not been quantified at the scale of the entire United States. In this paper, we quantify how climate change could affect monetary damages from flooding in the coterminous United States. With publicly available historical flooding and precipitation data, we estimate region‐specific logistic regression models of the probability that severely damaging floods will occur under baseline conditions. We then use future precipitation projections driven by climate model outputs to estimate the probability that damaging floods could occur under a ‘business as usual’ climate change scenario. Our results project an increase in monetary damages from flooding in nearly all regions of the United States and a total increase in damages by the end of century of approximately 30% (assuming no change in built infrastructure or values). However, these changes vary between regions due to differences in the mechanisms driving flooding and general circulation model precipitation projections.
Rationality in flood risk management: the limitations of probabilistic risk assessment in the design and selection of flood protection strategies
Authors: Doorn N.
Published: March 2013

The introduction of new flood protection strategies prompts the need for a general framework for evaluating these strategies. The focus of this paper is on the rationality in selecting between flood protection strategies, more particularly on the question to what extent risk‐based design and probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) can provide a general framework for rational evaluation of different strategies. On the basis of Arrow's impossibility theorem and the standard literature on cost–benefit analysis, the limitations of risk‐based design and PRA are discussed. Applied to the context of flood risk management, it is shown that the problem of selecting between different flood protection strategies is susceptible to Arrow's impossibility theorem, which makes risk‐based design seem less suitable as a generally applicable procedure. The incommensurability of criteria in the selection of flood protection strategies is related to the uncertainties pertaining to the different flood protection strategies. When selecting between strategies, risk‐based design should therefore be complemented with other decision tools.
An algorithm for rapid flood inundation mapping from optical data using a reflectance differencing technique
Authors: Amarnath G.
Published: March 2013

This paper presents an algorithm for flood inundation mapping in the context of emergency response. Rapid satellite‐based flood inundation mapping and delivery of flood inundation maps during a flood event can provide crucial information for decision‐makers to put relief measures in place. With the development of remote sensing techniques, flood mapping for large areas can be done easily. The algorithm discussed here involves the use of shortwave infrared, near‐infrared and green spectral bands to develop a suitable band rationing technique for detecting surface water changes. This technique is referred to as Normalized Difference Surface Water Index (NDSWI). The NDSWI‐based approach produces the best results for mapping of flood‐inundated areas when verified with actual satellite data. Analysis of results reveals that NDSWI has the potential to detect floodwater turbidity, which was verified using principal component analysis. The application of the technique is informative about flood damages, which are illustrated using the floods in Pakistan in 2010 as an example.
Phasic‐like stimulation of the medial forebrain bundle augments striatal gene expression despite methamphetamine‐induced partial dopamine denervation
Authors: Howard Christopher D. , Pastuzyn Elissa D. , Barker‐Haliski Melissa L. , Garris Paul A. , Keefe Kristen A.
Published: March 2013

Methamphetamine‐induced partial dopamine depletions are associated with impaired basal ganglia function, including decreased preprotachykinin mRNA expression and impaired transcriptional activation of activity‐regulated, cytoskeleton‐associated (Arc) gene in striatum. Recent work implicates deficits in phasic dopamine signaling as a potential mechanism linking methamphetamine‐induced dopamine loss to impaired basal ganglia function. This study thus sought to establish a causal link between phasic dopamine transmission and altered basal ganglia function by determining whether the deficits in striatal neuron gene expression could be restored by increasing phasic dopamine release. Three weeks after pretreatment with saline or a neurotoxic regimen of methamphetamine, rats underwent phasic‐ or tonic‐like stimulation of ascending dopamine neurons. Striatal gene expression was examined using in situ hybridization histochemistry. Phasic‐like, but not tonic‐like, stimulation induced immediate‐early genes Arc and zif268 in both groups, despite the partial striatal dopamine denervation in methamphetamine‐pretreated rats, with the Arc expression occurring in presumed striatonigral efferent neurons. Phasic‐like stimulation also restored preprotachykinin mRNA expression. These results suggest that disruption of phasic dopamine signaling likely underlies methamphetamine‐induced impairments in basal ganglia function, and that restoring phasic dopamine signaling may be a viable approach to manage long‐term consequences of methamphetamine‐induced dopamine loss on basal ganglia functions.
EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH ON ASSET PRICING
Authors: Noussair Charles N. , Tucker Steven
Published: March 2013

This paper discusses some of the literature on asset market behavior. We do not intend this paper to be an exhaustive survey, but rather a review of some of the more influential results and to illustrate to the nonspecialist reader the diversity of topics that have been pursued.
OVERBIDDING AND HETEROGENEOUS BEHAVIOR IN CONTEST EXPERIMENTS
Authors: Sheremeta Roman M.
Published: March 2013

We provide an overview of experimental literature on contests and point out the two main phenomena observed in most contest experiments: (i)overbiddingrelative to the standard Nash equilibrium prediction and (ii)heterogeneous behaviorofex antesymmetric contestants. Based on the sample of contest experiments that we review, the median overbidding rate is 72%. We provide different explanations for the overbidding phenomenon, including bounded rationality, utility of winning, other‐regarding preferences, probability distortion, and the shape of the payoff function. We also provide explanations for heterogeneous behavior of contestants based on differences in preferences toward winning, inequality, risk and losses, and demographic differences. Furthermore, we suggest mechanisms that can reduce overbidding and induce more homogeneous behavior. Finally, we discuss directions for future research.
Non‐invasive fibrosis biomarkers – APRI and Forns – are associated with liver stiffness in HIV‐monoinfected patients receiving antiretroviral drugs
Authors: Hasson Hamid , Merli Marco , Galli Laura , Gallotta Giulia , Carbone Alessia , Messina Emanuela , Bagaglio Sabrina , Morsica Giulia , Salpietro Stefania , Castagna Antonella , Lazzarin Adriano , Uberti‐Foppa Caterina
Published: March 2013

Background & Aims

HIV‐monoinfected patients are susceptible to liver injury by different factors and may develop liver fibrosis, which requires adequate clinical management in terms of therapy and disease monitoring. We aimed to evaluate the presence of liver fibrosis identified by transient elastography (TE), its relationships with indirect biochemical markers [the aspartate aminotransferase/platelet ratio index (APRI), the Forns index and FIB‐4] and its predictive factors in HIV‐monoinfected patients receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Methods

Seventy‐two HIV‐monoinfected patients underwent TE and were evaluated using APRI, Forns and FIB‐4. The clinical, immunological, virological and other biochemical characteristics were evaluated at the time of TE, together with their history of ART.

Results

Seven patients (10%) had liver stiffness (LS) values predicting cirrhosis, and 12 (17%) had values predicting significant or advanced fibrosis. Higher indirect biochemical scores of liver fibrosis were significantly associated with higher LS values [APRI rs = 0.4296 (P < 0.001); Forns rs = 0.4754 (P < 0.001); FIB‐4 rs = 0.285 (P = 0.015)]. At multivariable analysis, APRI (β = 2.7405; P = 0.036), Forns (β = 1.4174; P = 0.029) and triglyceride levels (β = 1.3028; P = 0.007) were independently associated with LS.

Conclusions

Indirect fibrosis biomarkers may increase the probability to detect liver injury enhancing a specific diagnostic workup and so contribute to improving the clinical management of HIV‐monoinfected patients with clinically suspected liver disease.
The association between circulating oestradiol levels and severity of liver disease in males with hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Mao Wei L. , Shi Xin P. , Lou Yu F. , Ye Bo , Lu Yuan Q.
Published: March 2013

Background

Males have a strikingly increased risk of advanced liver disease. This study was designed to investigate the association between sex hormone levels and different disease states in hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐infected male patients.

Methods

Two hundred and fifty‐two male patients, including 30 with acute hepatitis B (AHB), 127 with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and 95 with chronic severe hepatitis B (CSHB), and 48 healthy controls (HCs) were enroled in this study. All patients were followed for 4 months. The primary end point was in‐hospital mortality at the end of 90 days. At study entry, a blood sample was collected from all subjects to examine liver function, renal function and sex hormone levels (serum total testosterone and oestradiol). A total of nine clinical chemistry and biochemical variables were analyzed for possible association with outcomes by using Cox proportional hazards and multiple regression models.

Results

We demonstrated that in CSHB and CHB patients, oestradiol levels were significantly increased compared with HCs and AHB patients, whereas no significant differences were observed in AHB patients and HCs. All male patients had normal levels of testosterone which were not significantly different compared with those of HCs. Increased oestradiol levels were clinically associated with severe liver disease, and increased 3‐month mortality rate. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that oestradiol and the model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score were independent predictors for mortality (both P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Oestradiol levels are significantly increased in male patients with hepatitis B, and were associated with the severity of liver disease. Moreover, elevation of oestradiol is an independent predictive factor for the 3‐month mortality rate in male patients with hepatitis B.
Importance of screening for synchronous malignant neoplasms in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: impact of FDG PET/CT
Authors: Hiraoka Atsushi , Hirooka Masashi , Ochi Hironori , Koizumi Yohei , Shimizu Yuko , Shiraishi Akiko , Yamago Hiroka , Tanihira Tetsuya , Miyata Hideki , Ninomiya Tomoyuki , Kawasaki Hideki , Ishimaru Yoshihiro , Sogabe Ichiro , Inoue Takeshi , Abe Masanori , Hiasa Yoichi , Matsuura Bunzo , Onji Morikazu , Michitaka Kojiro
Published: March 2013

Background & Aim

Synchronous neoplasms (SNs) are occasionally found in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We examined such cases and the efficacy of 18‐fluoro‐2‐deoxyglucose positron‐emission tomography computed tomography (PET/CT), retrospectively.

Materials and Methods

We investigated 687 naïve HCC, who were admitted to our hospitals, encountered from October 2006 to December 2010 and evaluated the clinical backgrounds. All study protocols, was approved by our Institutional Ethics Committee. The usefulness of detecting SNs by PET/CT was evaluated in 234 patients who underwent PET/CT (PET group) and in 453 (non‐PET group) examined in the same period. We noted the presence of SNs, defined as primary extrahepatic malignant neoplasms within 1 year of diagnosis of HCC.

Results

SNs were observed in 48 of 687 patients (54 tumours, 7.0%). SNs were detected by PET/CT in 18, which was 7.7% of PET group. The detection rate for SNs, were increased to 11.1% (26/234) in PET group by using together with upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and routine enhanced CT for HCC, which was greater than that of non‐PET group (22/453, 4.9%) (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

SNs were pointed out more frequently in PET group than non‐PET group (11.1% vs. 4.9%). FDG PET/CT can enhance the detection ability for SNs in naïve HCC.
Differential gene expression in Acromyrmex leaf‐cutting ants after challenges with two fungal pathogens
Authors: Yek Sze H. , Boomsma Jacobus J. , Schiøtt Morten
Published: March 2013

Social insects in general and leaf‐cutting ants in particular have increased selection pressures on their innate immune system due to their social lifestyle and monoclonality of the symbiotic fungal cultivar. As this symbiosis is obligate for both parties, prophylactic behavioural defences against infections are expected to increase either ant survival or fungus‐garden survival, but also to possibly trade off when specific infections differ in potential danger. We examined the effectiveness of prophylactic behaviours and modulations of innate immune defences by a combination of inoculation bioassays and genome‐wide transcriptomic studies (RNA‐Seq), using an ant pathogen (Metarhizium brunneum) and a fungus‐garden pathogen (Escovopsis weberi) and administering inoculations both directly and indirectly (via the symbiotic partner). Upon detection of pathogen conidia, ant workers responded by increasing both general activity and the frequency of specific defence behaviours (self‐grooming, allo‐grooming, garden‐grooming) independent of the pathogen encountered. This trend was also evident in the patterns of gene expression change. Both direct and indirect (via fungus garden) inoculations with Metarhizium induced a general up‐regulation of gene expression, including a number of well‐known immune‐related genes. In contrast, direct inoculation of the fungus garden by Escovopsis induced an overall down‐regulation of ant gene expression, whereas indirect inoculation (via the ants) did not, suggesting that increased activity of ants to remove this fungus‐garden pathogen is costly and involves trade‐offs with the activation of other physiological pathways.