bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of the hippocampus in retaining relational information across short delays: The importance of memory load
Authors: Jeneson Annette , Mauldin Kristin N. , Hopkins Ramona O. , Squire Larry R.
Published: April 2011

Patients with hippocampal damage are sometimes impaired at remembering information across delays as short as a few seconds. How are these impairments to be understood? One possibility is that retention of some kinds of information is critically dependent on the hippocampus, regardless of the retention interval and regardless of whether the task depends on working memory or long-term memory. Alternatively, retention may be dependent on the hippocampus only when the task involves a memory load large enough to exceed working memory capacity. To explore these possibilities, we assessed the performance of patients with hippocampal lesions on two tasks requiring retention of the same object-in-scene information across a brief delay. The tasks placed different demands on memory. In one task, which used a continuous recognition format, participants needed to try to hold up to nine scenes in mind, even when no scene intervened between the study scene and the corresponding test scene. Patients were impaired in this condition. In a second task, using a conventional study-test format, participants needed to hold in mind only one scene at a time for either 3 or 14 sec. With this procedure, patients performed as well as controls after a 3-sec delay but were impaired after a 14-sec delay. We suggest that retention of object-in-scene information is dependent on the hippocampus only when working memory is insufficient to support performance (because memory load is high or the retention interval is long). In these circumstances performance depends, at least in part, on long-term memory.
Experimental quantification of the swimming performance and behaviour of spawning run river lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis and European eel Anguilla anguilla
Authors: Russon I. J. , Kemp P. S.
Published: April 2011

Using a large‐scale open‐channel flume, the swimming ability and behaviour of individual adult European eel Anguilla anguilla and river lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis, species that exhibit anguilliform locomotion, were quantified under complex hydraulic conditions created by a 0·2–0·3 m high under‐ or overshot weir during four discharge regimes. Fishes were allowed to approach the weirs from both up‐ and downstream. All fishes passed the undershot weir, independent of discharge and direction of movement, and under high flow (mean ±s.e. 194·63 ± 6·48 l s−1) moved upstream against velocities that ranged between 1·75 and 2·12 m s−1, suggesting greater maximum swimming capability than previously reported. In comparison, passage efficiency during upstream movement was lower for the overshot weir for both L. fluviatilis and A. anguilla. Downstream moving A. anguilla took longer to pass the over‐ than undershot weir. This study describes a methodology to attain realistic measures of swimming ability and behavioural performance required to develop multispecies fish passage criteria.
A cohort study of racing performance in Japanese Thoroughbred racehorses using genome information on ECA18
Authors: Tozaki T. , Hill E. W. , Hirota K. , Kakoi H. , Gawahara H. , Miyake T. , Sugita S. , Hasegawa T. , Ishida N. , Nakano Y. , Kurosawa M.
Published: April 2011

Using 1710 Thoroughbred racehorses in Japan, a cohort study was performed to evaluate the influence of genotypes at four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on equine chromosome 18 (ECA18), which were associated in a previous genome‐wide association study for racing performance with lifetime earnings and performance rank. In males, both g.65809482T>C and g.65868604G>T were related to performance rank (P = 0.005). In females, g.65809482T>C (P = 1.76E‐6), g.65868604G>T (P = 6.81E‐6) and g.66493737C>T (P = 4.42E‐5) were strongly related to performance rank and also to lifetime earnings (P < 0.05). When win‐race distance (WRD) among all winning racehorses and best race distance (BRD) among elite racehorses were considered as the phenotypes, significant associations (P < 0.001) were observed for all four SNPs. The favourable race distance of both elite (BRD) and novice racehorses (WRD) was also associated with genotypes in the ECA18 region, indicating the presence of a gene in this region influencing optimum race distance in Thoroughbred racehorses. Therefore, the association with performance rank is likely due to the bias in the race distances. The location of the SNPs within and proximal to the gene encoding myostatin (MSTN) strongly suggests that regulation of the MSTN gene affects racing performance. In particular, the g.65809482T>C, g.65868604G>T and g.66493737C>T SNPs, or their combinations, may be genetic diagnostic markers for racing performance indicators such as WRD and BRD.
Effects of oestradiol and raloxifene on the induction and effector phases of experimental postmenopausal arthritis and secondary osteoporosis
Authors: Jochems C , Islander U , Erlandsson M , Engdahl C , Lagerquist M , Ohlsson C , Nandakumar K S , Holmdahl R , Carlsten H
Published: April 2011

Oestradiol and the selective oestrogen receptor modulator (SERM) raloxifene have been shown to ameliorate collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in rats and in mice. One aim was to investigate if raloxifene exerts its anti-arthritic and anti-osteoporotic effects during the induction or effector phase of arthritis. A second aim was to analyse if raloxifene activates the oestrogen response element (ERE) to produce its immune-modulator effects. CIA or collagen–antibody-induced arthritis (CAIA) was induced in ovariectomized DBA/1-mice. CIA was used for evaluation of treatment during the induction, and CAIA for the effector phase of arthritis and osteoporosis development. Raloxifene, oestradiol or vehicle was administered 5 days/week. The clinical disease was evaluated continuously. Bone marrow density (BMD) was analysed with peripheral quantitative computer tomography, paws were collected for histological examination, and sera were analysed for markers of bone and cartilage turnover and proinflammatory cytokines. Transgenic luciferase (Luc)-ERE mice were immunized with collagen (CII), and after 10 days injected once with raloxifene, oestradiol or vehicle before termination. Spleens were analysed for luciferase activity to measure ERE activation. Treatment with oestradiol or raloxifene during the induction phase of CIA failed to affect arthritis. Raloxifene did not hamper disease activity in CAIA, whereas oestradiol delayed the onset and ameliorated the severity. Both raloxifene and oestradiol preserved BMD in CAIA. CII-immunization increased the oestradiol-induced ERE activation in spleen, and raloxifene activated the ERE at about 25% the intensity of oestradiol. Further experiments are needed to elucidate the exact mechanisms behind this finding.
Tiller production in cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata) and tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) growing along a light gradient
Authors: Belesky D. P. , Burner D. M. , Ruckle J. M.
Published: April 2011

Pasture managers seek to balance leaf appearance with utilization to sustain sward productivity while meeting livestock nutritional needs. Achieving this in silvopasture must account for the influence of light and defoliation on tillering. We determined tiller production, as a function of light availability and clipping height, for two forage grasses adapted to cool, humid temperate conditions of the Appalachian region of the USA. Tiller production of cocksfoot (orchard grass) (Dactylis glomerata L.) and tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) was greatest in unshaded and least in shaded sites, irrespective of residual clipping height. Juvenile plants produced more than twice as many tillers as mature plants, with differences accentuated by site, reflecting a shift in reproductive and resource‐use strategies. Trends in tiller production were as follows: cocksfoot > tall fescue; 10‐cm > 5‐cm residual clipping height; and unshaded > partially shaded > densely shaded sites. Tiller production reaches maximum earlier in the woodlot site, regardless of species or clipping height, than at the unshaded site. Plants at the wooded site extended leaves quickly, sustaining herbage production, but had less non‐structural carbohydrate and fewer tillers. Cocksfoot, but not tall fescue, sustained leaf and tiller production in the shaded sites, suggesting that cocksfoot is suited for use in silvopasture in this region.
Freeze tolerance of forage bermudagrasses
Authors: Anderson J. A. , Wu Y. Q.
Published: April 2011

The ability to survive harsh winters is one of the primary factors limiting bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) distribution, especially those used for forage. Consequently, improved stress tolerance has been a goal of programmes for breeding bermudagrasses. While significant progress has been made in developing and evaluating freeze tolerance of turfgrasses, information on forage bermudagrasses is limited. Our objective was to evaluate freeze tolerance of recently released forage bermudagrasses compared with standard cultivars. Plants were established and acclimated in growth chambers and exposed to sub‐freezing temperatures in a programmable freeze chamber. Plant responses to low‐temperature exposures were quantified by regrowth mass. Freeze tolerance of Tifton 44 and Coastal was not significantly different from Midland, the reference cultivar. Coastcross, Tifton 85 and Tifton 68 were more susceptible to low‐temperature injury than Midland, while Hardie, Goodwell, Midland 99 and Ozark were more freeze tolerant than Midland. Ozark, Midland 99, Goodwell and Hardie are less likely to sustain winterkill than Coastcross, Tifton 85 and Tifton 68 in areas that frequently experience low temperatures. Cultivars with one or more parents originating in Kenya had poor freeze tolerance, while germplasm from Yugoslavia and Afghanistan produced plants that were more freeze tolerant.
Assessment of hygienic quality of haylage fed to healthy horses
Authors: Müller C. E. , Hultén C. , Gröndahl G.
Published: April 2011

Wrapped forages such as haylage and silage are increasing in popularity in equine feed rations, but knowledge of their microbial composition, especially of haylage, is scarce. Haylage may be more at risk of mould growth compared to silage, and methods for the assessment of hygienic quality of haylage are needed. Varying culturing conditions, including aerobic/anaerobic incubation, four substrates and three incubation temperatures were therefore evaluated for analysis of fungi in haylage samples from eighteen horse farms, taken on two occasions (autumn and the following spring). Average mould counts in forage samples were low, but fungi with the potential for producing mycotoxins, such as Aspergillus fumigatus and Penicillium spp., were present. The microbial composition and content of fermentation products were similar in haylage samples taken in autumn and in spring. The type of substrate used for cultivation did not influence mould or yeast counts, but not all mould species were present on all substrates. Incubation temperature influenced fungal counts and the presence of mould species. By using at least two substrates (malt extract agar and dichloran 18% glycerol agar) and two incubation temperatures (25 and 37°C), all mould species/genera that were identified in this study could be detected.
Liver transplantation in the haemophilia patient
Authors: LAMBING A. , KACHALSKY E. , KURIAKOSE P.
Published: April 2011

Summary.  Hepatitis C is a chronic condition that many persons with haemophilia contracted in the 1980s due to the infusion of factor concentrates which did not have viral inactivation processes in place. Many patients with haemophilia are now living longer lives, well into 80 years of age, due to the improvement of their care. The effects of the HCV on the liver over time are now being realized as this population ages. Although the new treatments for hepatitis C have a prolonged response, as demonstrated by a persistent negative viral load, many haemophilia patients have either not responded to the therapy or had significant side‐effects to the treatment, preventing continued therapy. Of these infected haemophiliacs with liver disease, many have demonstrated a slow progressive decline resulting in liver failure, cirrhosis or liver cancer. Liver transplant then becomes their only option. This article will review liver transplantation in the haemophilia patient highlighting three case studies demonstrating the effectiveness of specific short‐term factor infusions and other haemostatic support to minimize bleeding during the surgical period. These cases confirm the opportunity for successful liver transplantation for haemophilia patients utilizing specific factor recommendations with minimal bleeding risk.
The reconstitution of the thymus in immunosuppressed individuals restores CD4‐specific cellular and humoral immune responses
Authors: Plana Montserrat , Garcia Felipe , Darwich Laila , Romeu Joan , López Anna , Cabrera Cecilia , Massanella Marta , Canto Esther , Ruiz‐Hernandez Raul , Blanco Julià , Sánchez Marcelo , Gatell Josep M. , Clotet Bonaventura , Ruiz Lidia , Bofill Margarita ,   Red de Investigación en Sida (RIS)
Published: April 2011

Infection with HIV‐1 frequently results in the loss of specific cellular immune responses and an associated lack of antibodies. Recombinant growth hormone (rGH) administration reconstitutes thymic tissue and boosts the levels of peripheral T cells, so rGH therapy may be an effective adjuvant through promoting the recovery of lost cellular and T‐cell‐dependent humoral immune responses in immunosuppressed individuals. To test this concept, we administered rGH to a clinically defined group of HIV‐1‐infected subjects with defective cellular and serological immune responses to at least one of three commonly employed vaccines (hepatitis A, hepatitis B or tetanus toxoid). Of the original 278 HIV‐1‐infected patients entering the trial, only 20 conformed to these immunological criteria and were randomized into three groups: Group A (n = 8) receiving rGH and challenged with the same vaccine to which they were unresponsive and Groups B (n = 5) and C (n = 7) who received either rGH or vaccination alone, respectively. Of the eight subjects in Group A, five recovered CD4 cellular responses to vaccine antigen and four of these produced the corresponding antibodies. In the controls, three of the five in group B recovered cellular responses with two producing antibodies, whereas three of the seven in Group C recovered CD4 responses, with only two producing antibodies. Significantly, whereas seven of ten patients receiving rGH treatment in Group A (six patients) and B (one patient) recovered T‐cell responses to HIVp24, only two of six in Group C responded similarly. In conclusion, reconstitution of the thymus in immunosuppressed adults through rGH hormone treatment restored both specific antibody and CD4 T‐cell responses.
Increased mortality of solid organ transplant recipients with H1N1 infection: a single center experience
Authors: Gainer Sarah M. , Patel Samir J. , Seethamraju Harish , Moore Linda W. , Knight Richard J. , Gaber A. Osama
Published: April 2011

Gainer SM, Patel SJ, Seethamraju H, Moore LW, Knight RJ, Gaber AO. Increased mortality of solid organ transplant recipients with H1N1 infection: a single center experience.  Clin Transplant 2011 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2011.01443.x.  © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Immunosuppressed solid organ transplant recipients are included in the cohort at increased risk for complications of viral infections such as the newly encountered H1N1. A retrospective review was performed to collect data on patients hospitalized during a recent H1N1 epidemic. H1N1 was suspected based on symptoms and real‐time reverse‐transcriptase‐polymerase‐chain‐reaction assay confirmed the diagnosis. From August through October of 2009, 89 patients were admitted to The Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, with H1N1. Eighteen were solid organ transplant recipients with an age range of 34–69 yr. This group included nine kidney, five lung, one kidney‐pancreas, one liver, and two heart recipients. Severe cardiac or pulmonary comorbidities existed in over half of non‐transplant patients, while only eight of these non‐transplant patients were otherwise healthy. Eighty‐nine percent of transplant patients presented with fever or chills, 72% with cough, and 56% with gastrointestinal distress. Symptoms were similar to non‐transplant patients. All transplant patients were treated with oseltamivir. Two non‐transplant patients and three transplant patients died. Thirty‐day survival was 97% in non‐transplant and 83% in transplant patients (p = 0.02). In the context of an initial epidemic of H1N1, infection was associated with increased risk of complications and mortality in solid organ transplant recipients.
Rapid screening for the detection of HLA‐B57 and HLA‐B58 in prevention of drug hypersensitivity
Authors: Kostenko L. , Kjer‐Nielsen L. , Nicholson I. , Hudson F. , Lucas A. , Foley B. , Chen K. , Lynch K. , Nguyen J. , Wu A. H. B. , Tait B. D. , Holdsworth R. , Mallal S. , Rossjohn J. , Bharadwaj M. , McCluskey J.
Published: April 2011

HLA‐B57 and HLA‐B58 are major histocompatibility class (MHC)‐I allotypes that are potentially predictive of important clinical immune phenotypes. HLA‐B*5701 is strongly associated with hypersensitivity to the HIV drug abacavir, liver toxicity from the antibiotic flucloxacillin and is a marker for slow progression of HIV AIDS. HLA‐B*5801 is associated with hypersensitivity to allopurinol used to treat hyperuricaemia and recurrent gout. Here we describe a monoclonal antibody (mAb) specific for HLA‐B57 and HLA‐B58 that provides an inexpensive and sensitive screen for these MHC‐I allotypes. The usefulness of HLA‐B57 screening for prediction of abacavir hypersensitivity was shown in three independent laboratories, including confirmation of the mAb sensitivity and specificity in a cohort of patients enrolled in the PREDICT‐1 trial. Our data show that patients who test negative by mAb screening comprise 90%–95% of all individuals in most human populations and require no further human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing. Patients who test positive by mAb screening should proceed to high‐resolution typing to ascertain the presence of HLA‐B*5701 or HLA‐B*5801. Hence, mAb screening provides a low‐cost alternative to high‐resolution typing of all patients and lends itself to point‐of‐care diagnostics and rapid ascertainment of low‐risk patients who can begin immediate therapy with abacavir, flucloxacillin or allopurinol.
Eurobloodpack: a common European design for blood bag systems with integral leucodepletion filters
Authors: Nightingale M. J. , De Korte D. , Chabanel A. , Hughes W. , Rowe G. P. , Nicholson G.
Published: April 2011

Three EBA specified blood bag configurations (‘Eurobloodpack’) are described which are capable of meeting >80% of its member’s requirements. These include a ‘top‐and‐top’ and two ‘bottom‐and‐top’ packs enabling aseptic, pre‐donation collection of up to 40 ml of samples, 427·5–522·5 ml of whole blood and the preparation of an extensive range of blood components. Features currently beyond the scope of ISO standardisation have been controlled including: anticoagulant and additive volumes; collection needle and sampling system; transfer tubing; cross‐match line; base label; leucodepletion filter performance; compatibility of access ports and transfusion sets. Eurobloodpack has significant advantages for blood services and blood bag manufacturers.
Size of food bowl and scoop affects amount of food owners feed their dogs
Authors: Murphy M. , Lusby A. L. , Bartges J. W. , Kirk C. A.
Published: April 2011

The incidence of canine obesity appears to be increasing dramatically and understanding factors impacting the amount of food pet owners provide their dogs may improve weight management. Human research has shown the size of food bowls, plates and utensils can significantly impact the amount of food portioned and consumed. This effect can be attributed to both the Delboeuf optical illusion and the Ebbinghaus‐Titchener size‐contrast illusion. To investigate the existence of a similar effect with dog owners, 54 dogs and their owners were recruited for a four treatment randomized prospective trial. Owners scooped out a normal kibble‐based meal using a small bowl and small scoop, small bowl and large scoop, large bowl and small scoop or a large bowl and large scoop. Each treatment was used once per owner over four visits. Repeated measures anova revealed the mean amount of food portioned using the small bowl and small scoop was significantly less than all other bowl and scoop combinations (150.7 g vs. 171.5 g vs. 172.7 g vs. 184.5 g, p < 0.05). The small bowl and large scoop combination did not differ from large bowl and small scoop (171.5 g vs. 172.7 g, p > 0.05). Owners were more likely to portion a larger amount of food with a large bowl and large scoop. Results are consistent with human data and emphasize the need for owners to use standard measuring cups. Results also suggest owner compliance during weight loss programs may be improved with smaller bowls and serving scoops.
A case of pulmonary capillary hemangiomatosis with pulmonary fibrosis associated with MMP‐9 related pulmonary remodeling
Authors: Sakashita Naomi , Motooka Yashiro , Suganuma Masato , Ohnishi Koji , Fujiwara Yukio , Nakagawa Takenobu , Ichiyasu Hidenori , Takeya Motohiro
Published: April 2011

Pulmonary capillary hemangiomatosis (PCH) is a rare cause of pulmonary hypertension. It is characterized capillary proliferation within the alveolar septa. Here, we report a case of PCH with extensive pulmonary fibrosis. A 52‐year‐old man with a clinical diagnosis of non‐specific interstitial pneumonia died of respiratory failure with severe pulmonary hypertension. Autopsy revealed pronounced right ventricle hypertrophy and pulmonary fibrosis. Consistent with clinical diagnosis, histological examination revealed diffuse pulmonary fibrosis, in addition, it also disclosed marked capillary proliferation within the alveolar septa as well as the fibrotic pulmonary stroma, suggesting the presence of PCH. Hemosiderin‐laden macrophages had accumulated in the capillary proliferative area, and bronchiolar‐type metaplasia was conspicuous in the fibrotic lesion. Proliferated capillaries were surrounded by fine collagen and α‐smooth muscle actin‐positive myofibroblasts. Immunohistochemistry revealed that type IV collagen around capillaries in the area of the PCH without inflammation disappeared in the area with inflammation. In addition, the PCH lesion contained significant numbers of macrophages expressing matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 9 and type II pneumocytes positive for vascular endothelial growth factor. Although pulmonary fibrosis is a distinctive disease entity, different from PCH, MMP‐9‐driven destruction of the basement membrane may promote unusual pulmonary remodeling, which, in this case, resulted in extensive pulmonary fibrosis.
BEYOND THE SNARE: TECHNICALLY ACCESSIBLE LARGE EN BLOC COLONIC RESECTION IN THE WEST: AN ANIMAL STUDY
Authors: MOSS ALAN , BOURKE MICHAEL J , METZ ANDREW J , MCLEOD DUNCAN , TRAN KAYLA , GODFREY CRAIG , MCKAY GARY , CHANDRA ABHILASH P , PASUPATHY ASOKAN
Published: April 2011

Background:  Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) and circumferential submucosal incision endoscopic mucosal resection (CSI‐EMR) are techniques for en bloc excision of large sessile colonic lesions. Our aims were to compare the efficacy, safety and learning curve of colonic hybrid knife (HK) ESD versus CSI‐EMR for en bloc excision of 50 mm diameter hemi‐circumferential artificial lesions in a porcine model.

Patients and Methods:  Two separate 50 mm diameter areas of normal recto‐sigmoid mucosa were marked out in each of ten pigs. One was excised with HK‐ESD using succinylated gelatin (SG) submucosal injection. The other was isolated with CSI with the Insulated Tip Knife 2 followed by SG submucosal injection then EMR with a large snare. Euthanasia and colectomy was performed at 72 h followed by blinded histopathology assessment.

Results:  En bloc excision rates were: HK‐ESD 100% versus CSI‐EMR 20% (P = 0.008). The mean number of resections per lesion was HK‐ESD 1 versus CSI‐EMR 3 (P = 0.001). The mean dimensions of the largest specimen per technique were HK‐ESD 63 × 54 mm versus CSI‐EMR 49 × 41 mm (P = 0.005). Procedure duration mean was HK‐ESD 54 min versus CSI‐EMR 22 min (P < 0.001). When procedure duration was adjusted for the size of the resected en bloc specimen, a statistically significant and accelerated learning effect was noted for HK‐ESD (r = −0.83, P = 0.003). There were no perforations and no significant bleeding.

Conclusions:  HK‐ESD with SG submucosal injection is superior to CSI‐EMR for en bloc excision of 50 mm diameter lesions in a porcine model. The technique is rapidly learnt. This novel approach may lower the barrier to colonic ESD for Western endoscopists.
A placental polyp arising from an exaggerated placental site
Authors: Harada Naoya , Nobuhara Ichiro , Haruta Noriko , Kajimoto Megumi
Published: April 2011

There are very few reported cases of the clinical course of exaggerated placental site, and a case of a placental polyp arising from an exaggerated placental site has not been reported previously. Here, we report a case of a 43‐year‐old woman whose chief complaint was of massive genital bleeding. She had undergone an operation for induced abortion in the first trimester 41 days previously. A placental polyp measuring 45 mm with an abundant blood flow could be detected by transvaginal color Doppler ultrasonography and enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. We performed a transabdominal simple total hysterectomy. At the anterior wall of the uterus, a protruding lesion into the uterine cavity was observed and a placental polyp was attached to the protruding lesion. The histological specimen of the protruding lesion, which was considered to be the implantation site, showed intermediate trophoblastic cells infiltrated into the myometrium. An exaggerated placental site was diagnosed, which might lead to a placental polyp.
Optimal condition of vitrification method for cryopreservation of human ovarian cortical tissues
Authors: Chang Hye Jin , Moon Jeong Hee , Lee Jung Ryeol , Jee Byung Chul , Suh Chang Suk , Kim Seok Hyun
Published: April 2011

Aim:  In order to find the optimal exposure time of cryoprotectant, we performed a comparison of vitrification versus slow freezing according to the degree of normal morphology and apoptosis of human ovarian follicles.

Materials and Methods:  Eleven patients aged 20–41 years who underwent operative laparoscopy for benign ovarian cysts or cesarean section were enrolled in this study. We carried out a prospective parallel comparison of survival and morphology of follicles after freezing (slow freezing and vitrification) and thawing. The ovarian strips were vitrified with two‐step exposure to equilibration and vitrification solutions at room temperature. After various exposure times of cryoprotectant solution (5 min, 10 min, and 20 min, respectively), cryoprotectant‐filled cryovials with pretreated cortical tissues were immediately plunged into liquid nitrogen.

Results:  In total, 336 follicles were analyzed by light microscopy to assess the morphology. The distribution of follicles was as follows: primordial, primary, and secondary follicles were 55.7% (187/336), 36.9% (124/336), and 7.4% (25/336), respectively. Vitrification in the 10‐min exposure group preserved the follicles most effectively (ratio of grade 1 follicle: 3.6%, 34.7%, 13.8%, and 20.0% in the 5‐min, 10‐min, 20‐min, and slow‐freezing groups, respectively). Fewer terminal‐deoxynucleotidyl‐transferase‐dUTP‐nick‐end‐labeling‐positive cells were found in vitrification in the 10‐min equilibrium group compared with the other cryopreserved–thawed groups (52.1%, 31.5%, 53.1%, and 46.7% in the 5‐min, 10‐min, 20‐min, and slow‐freezing groups, respectively). The stromal cells were also better preserved in the 10‐min group than the others (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  The 10‐min exposure group for vitrification showed better results compared with other conditions and the slow‐freezing group.
Circulating levels of copeptin, a novel biomarker in pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Zulfikaroglu Ebru , Islimye Mine , Tonguc Esra Aysin , Payasli Ahmet , Isman Ferruh , Var Turgut , Danisman Nuri
Published: April 2011

Aims:  Increasing evidence supports the participation of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance in the pathogenesis of pre‐eclampsia. Copeptin is co‐synthesized with vasopressin and is a new and promising novel marker of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. Our aim was to investigate copeptin levels in normotensive pregnant, mild and severe pre‐eclamptic women.

Materials and Methods:  We included 96 pregnant women who received antenatal and obstetric care at the perinatology clinic of our hospital. They were divided into three groups: women with normal ongoing pregnancy (n = 32), those with mild pre‐eclampsia (n = 32) and those with severe pre‐eclampsia (n = 32). Doppler velocimetry measurements of the uterine and umbilical arteries were performed for each patient. Plasma levels of copeptin were quantified with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:  Plasma levels of copeptin were 0.31 ± 0.09 ng/mL in the normotensive pregnant group, 0.62 ± 0.16 ng/mL in the mild pre‐eclamptic group and 0.85 ± 0.18 ng/mL in the severe pre‐eclamptic group (P < 0.001). Copeptin levels in pre‐eclamptic patients with abnormal Doppler velocimetry were significantly higher than in those with normal Doppler velocimetry.

Conclusions:  These results suggest that increased maternal levels of copeptin may be involved in the pathogenesis of pre‐eclampsia and it may be useful in the assessment of the severity of the disease.
Striatal‐enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase (STEP) knockout mice have enhanced hippocampal memory
Authors: Venkitaramani Deepa V. , Moura Paula J. , Picciotto Marina R. , Lombroso Paul J.
Published: April 2011

Striatal‐enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase (STEP) is a brain‐specific phosphatase that opposes synaptic strengthening by the regulation of key synaptic signaling proteins. Previous studies suggest a possible role for STEP in learning and memory. To demonstrate the functional importance of STEP in learning and memory, we generated STEP knockout (KO) mice and examined the effect of deletion of STEP on behavioral performance, as well as the phosphorylation and expression of its substrates. Here we report that loss of STEP leads to significantly enhanced performance in hippocampal‐dependent learning and memory tasks. In addition, STEP KO mice displayed greater dominance behavior, although they were normal in their motivation, motor coordination, visual acuity and social interactions. STEP KO mice displayed enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation of extracellular‐signal regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), the NR2B subunit of the N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) and proline‐rich tyrosine kinase (Pyk2), as well as an increased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 substrates. Concomitant with the increased phosphorylation of NR2B, synaptosomal expression of NR1/NR2B NMDARs was increased in STEP KO mice, as was the GluR1/GluR2 containing α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazole‐propionic acid receptors (AMPARs), providing a potential molecular mechanism for the improved cognitive performance. The data support a role for STEP in the regulation of synaptic strengthening. The absence of STEP improves cognitive performance, and may do so by the regulation of downstream effectors necessary for synaptic transmission.
A Survey of ocular abnormalities in Miniature Horses
Authors: Plummer Caryn E. , Ramsey David T.
Published: April 2011

Objective To determine the incidence of ocular abnormalities in Miniature Horses.

Design Descriptive study.

Animals studied Fifty‐three Miniature Horses.

Procedure Ophthalmic examinations were performed using diffuse and focal illumination, slit‐lamp biomicroscopy and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Coat color, mane and tail color, age and gender were recorded with results of ophthalmic examination.

Results Ocular abnormalities detected most frequently consisted of cysts arising from the posterior iris, ciliary body, and peripheral retina, curvilinear streaks of retinal pigmented epithelium extending from the peripheral temporal retina, and retinal dysplasia (folds). One Miniature Horse also had multiple ocular abnormalities (cornea globosa, goniosynechiae, decreased or absent and pupillary light reflexes, miotic and dyscoric pupils, iris hypoplasia, and epinuclear cataract). Ocular abnormalities were observed in horses that had a flaxen or white mane and tail color and a chocolate coat color.

Conclusions Abnormal ocular phenotype detected in eyes of Miniature Horses was similar to multiple congenital and hereditary ocular abnormalities reported in the Rocky Mountain Horse. Phenotypic ocular developmental abnormalities and coat, mane and tail color were most compatible with a heterozygous or homozygous effect of the Silver Dapple locus.
Allergic conjunctivitis and conjunctival provocation tests in atopic dogs
Authors: Lourenço‐Martins Ana Mafalda , Delgado Esmeralda , Neto Isabel , Peleteiro Maria Conceição , Morais‐Almeida Mário , Correia José Henrique Duarte
Published: April 2011

Introduction  Canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) is a very common disease, but little is known about eye involvement. The conjunctival provocation test (CPT) is used in human to study the ocular response to allergenic stimuli and to evaluate anti‐allergic therapy. To our knowledge it has not been used in dogs.

Objectives  To evaluate the prevalence of ocular signs in a population of atopic dogs and relate these with clinical cAD scores; and the usefulness of CPT for dust mites in atopic dogs with itchy eyes.

Procedures  Sixty cAD patients were evaluated for (i) ocular signs of allergic conjunctivitis including conjunctival hyperemia, chemosis, epiphora, ocular discharge, pruritus and corneal involvement, graded 0 to 3 according to severity, and (2) cAD Extent and Severity Index (CADESI‐03). Additionally, CPTs for Dermatophagoides farinae (n = 12) and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (n = 12) were performed in sensitized atopic dogs and 24 control dogs.

Results  Periocular and ocular signs of allergy were present in 60% (36/60) of cases. Conjunctival hyperemia (90%) was the most common sign. Severity of ocular signs was significantly correlated with eye pruritus (rs = 0.690, P = <0.001) and skin lesions score for head region (rs = 0.261, P = 0.04). A highly significant difference (P < 0.001, Fisher test) was found in CPTs between the test and the control groups.

Conclusion  Allergic conjunctivitis signs associated with cAD seem under valuated so these patients would benefit from an ophthalmologic evaluation. Furthermore, we found CPT to be a reliable, easy to perform and safe test for the etiologic diagnosis of allergic conjunctivitis in the dog.
Equine Multiple Congenital Ocular Anomalies (MCOA) syndrome inPMEL17(Silver) mutant ponies: five cases
Authors: Komáromy András M. , Rowlan Jessica S. , La Croix Noelle C. , Mangan Brendan G.
Published: April 2011

Objective To describe the clinical phenotype and genetics of equine Multiple Congenital Ocular Anomalies (MCOA) syndrome inPMEL17(Silver) mutant ponies.

Animals studied Five presumably unrelated ponies.

Procedures The ponies were examined under field conditions in their barn by slit lamp biomicroscopy, indirect ophthalmoscopy, and applanation tonometry. Blood was collected and genomic DNA extracted forMCOAgenotyping using thePMEL17ex11marker.

Results One pony solely presented with temporal ciliary body cysts, suggestive of the less severeCystphenotype of MCOA; the animal was heterozygous at theMCOAlocus. Multiple bilateral anterior segment anomalies were identified in four ponies, consistent with the more severeMCOAphenotype characterized by cornea globosa, iris hypoplasia, encircling granula iridica along the pupillary ruff, and cataracts. These animals were homozygous for the mutantMCOAallele. Four of the ponies had a silver dapple or chocolate coat color with white or flaxen manes and tails. Silver dappling was masked by the palomino coloring of a 5th pony that was homozygous at theMCOAlocus.

Conclusions The MCOA syndrome can be seen in ponies. The results of both clinical evaluation and genotyping resembled the previously described MCOA of both Rocky Mountain and Kentucky Mountain Saddle horses.
Comparison of a rebound and an applanation tonometer for measuring intraocular pressure in normal rabbits
Authors: Pereira Fabiana Quartiero , Bercht Bernardo Stefano , Soares Mírian Gomes , da Mota Maurício Grillo Bittencourt , Pigatto João Antonio Tadeu
Published: April 2011

Objective To compare intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements made on healthy adult rabbits without the effect of tranquilizers using the new applanation tonometer, Tono‐Pen Avia®, and the rebound tonometer Tonovet®.

Methods Intraocular pressure was measured throughout the day (6:00, 9:00, 12:00, 15:00, and 18:00 h) in 38 adult New Zealand White rabbits (76 eyes). The animals were 20 males and 18 females, with a mean weight of 3.5 kg and an average age of 6 months. A complete ocular exam (including Schirmer tear test, fluorescein staining, slit‐lamp biomicroscopy, and direct ophthalmoscopy) was performed on all animals at the beginning of the trial. Rebound tonometry was performed, and after 10 min, anesthetic drops were instilled and applanation tonometry was carried out. IOP values obtained using the two techniques were analyzed statistically.

Results The mean IOP was 9.51 ± 2.62 mmHg with Tonovet®, and 15.44 ± 2.16 mmHg with the Tono‐Pen Avia®. Significant differences between measurements with the two tonometers were observed (P < 0.001). The linear regression equation describing the relationship between the two tonometers wasy = 0.4923x + 10.754 (y = Tonovet®andx = Tono‐Pen Avia®). High IOPs were recorded in the early measurements (6:00), but the average IOPs from both devices were statistically similar throughout the day (P = 0.086). The correlation coefficient wasr2 = 0.357. No significant difference in IOP regarding gender was observed.

Conclusion The Tono‐Pen Avia®recorded higher levels of IOP compared with the Tonovet®. Early in the day, the IOP of rabbits was higher than later in the day, regardless of the tonometer used.
Evaluation of topical nalbuphine or oral tramadol as analgesics for corneal pain in dogs: a pilot study
Authors: Clark Jason S. , Bentley Ellison , Smith Lesley J.
Published: April 2011

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of topical nalbuphine or oral tramadol in the treatment of corneal pain in dogs.

Animals studied Fourteen male Beagle dogs.

Procedures Dogs were divided into three treatment groups and sedated with dexmedetomidine (5 μ/kg IV). A 4 mm corneal epithelial wound was created in the right eye (OD) of all dogs. Sedation was reversed with atipamazole IM. All dogs received pre/post ophthalmic examinations. Post operatively, Group NB (n = 5) received topical 1% preservative‐free nalbuphine OD q8 h and an oral placebo PO q8 h. Group TR (n = 5) received tramadol (4 mg/kg) PO q8 h and topical sterile saline OD q8 h. Group CNTRL (n = 4) received topical sterile saline OD q8 h and an oral placebo q8 h. All dogs received topical 0.3% gentamicin OD TID until healed. Dogs were pain scored using a pain scoring system modified from the University of Melbourne pain scale at 0, 1, 2, 4, and 6 h, then every 6 h by observers masked to treatment, until corneal wounds were healed. Treatment failure was recorded if cumulative pain scores were above a minimum threshold of acceptable pain and rescue analgesia of morphine (1.0 mg/kg IM) was administered subsequently.

Result Four dogs in Group NB, one dog in Group TR, and two dogs in Group CNTRL required rescue analgesia. There was no significant difference in the incidence of treatment failure between groups (P = 0.184). Mean time to rescue was 9.16 h. All corneal wounds were healed by 84 h.

Conclusions The results of this study suggest tramadol rather than nalbuphine should be further investigated for the treatment of corneal pain.
Cryptococcus gattii chorioretinitis in a ferret
Authors: Ropstad Ernst‐Otto , Leiva Marta , Peña Teresa , Morera Neus , Martorell Jaime
Published: April 2011

Bilateral exudative chorioretinitis was diagnosed in an 18‐month‐old male neutered ferret (Mustela putorius furo) with a generalized Cryptococcus gattii infection confirmed by PCR. The animal was referred to the Ophthalmology Service of the Autonomous University of Barcelona (VTH‐UAB) for acute onset blindness. Complete ophthalmic examination revealed absent menace response and dazzle reflex in both eyes (OU), as well as subretinal edema located in the tapetal fundus. At that time, the clinical ophthalmologic diagnosis was bilateral exudative chorioretinitis. Treatment with prednisone (0.5 mg/kg PO q24 h) was instituted in addition to the ongoing treatment with fluconazole (10 mg/kg PO q24 h). The following rechecks revealed secondary cataracts with subsequent lens subluxation and panretinal degeneration OU. Despite being blind and the poor prognosis of disseminate cryptococcosis, the patient remained active and in good body condition during 6 months after the initial diagnosis. At that time, the ferret showed ataxia, incontinence, and generalized pain. A magnetic resonance imaging study revealed a mass affecting the spine. The owners declined further investigations and the ferret was humanely euthanized. The postmortem histopathology confirmed the initial diagnosis of cryptococcosis and the presence of intraretinal Cryptococcus spp. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of Cryptococcus spp. induced exudative chorioretinitis in a ferret.
Spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD‐OCT) assessment of the healthy female canine retina and optic nerve
Authors: Hernandez‐Merino Elena , Kecova Helga , Jacobson Samantha J. , Hamouche Karl N. , Nzokwe Richard N. , Grozdanic Sinisa D.
Published: April 2011

Objective  To provide normative data for canine whole retinal thickness (WRT), nerve fiber layer thickness (NFL), photoreceptor layer thickness (PR), and outer nuclear layer thickness (ONL) using spectral domain optical coherence tomography. Animal studied: Twelve healthy adult intact female beagles.

Procedure  Horizontal volume scans through the area dorso‐temporal from the optic nerve (superior retina), and the area ventro‐temporal from the optic nerve (inferior retina) were used to evaluate the thickness of retinal NFL, PR, ONL, and WRT. Peripapillary circular scans were used to evaluate NFL thickness. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the thickness of the individual layers between the superior and inferior retina (paired t‐test). One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the thickness of peripapillary NFL between the superior, inferior, temporal and nasal quadrants of the circle scan.

Results  The WRT, PR, and NFL thickness were greater in the superior than in the inferior retina (198.7 ± 9.6 μm vs. 164.4 ± 6.4 μm, P < 0.0001; 95.5 ± 6.5 μm vs. 78.8 ± 7.4 μm, P < 0.0001; and 26.4 ± 1.6 μm vs. 25.0 ± 1.9 μm, P = 0.0236, respectively). No statistical difference was found between the ONL thickness of the superior and inferior retina (50.1 ± 6.4 μm vs. 44.3 ± 3.6, P = 0.0578). Peripapillary NFL thickness showed a similar tendency as the linear scans, with the superior quadrant having the greatest thickness (91.26 ± 7.0 μm) and the inferior quadrant being the thinnest (76.42 ± 9.2 μm) (P < 0.001).

Conclusions  Results of our in vivo studies showed significant differences between thickness values for the superior (tapetal) and inferior (nontapetal) retinal regions.
Measurement of corneal sensitivity in 20 ophthalmologically normal alpacas
Authors: Welihozkiy Anja , Bedenice Daniela , Price Lori Lyn , Pizzirani Stefano , Pirie Christopher G.
Published: April 2011

Objective To determine corneal sensitivity in 20 healthy adult alpacas (40 eyes) in order to establish reference values.

Design Prospective study.

Animals Twenty healthy, adult alpacas.

Procedures Corneal sensitivity was determined by the corneal touch threshold (CTT) using a Cochet‐Bonnet esthesiometer. Five different regions of the cornea were evaluated (nasal, ventral, lateral, dorsal, and central).

Results Corneal touch threshold values (in mm filament length) obtained from five corneal regions demonstrated varying corneal sensitivities. The central region (34.5 ± 7.1 mm) was the most sensitive, followed by the ventral (29.5 ± 7.2 mm), medial (29.3 ± 7.3 mm), dorsal (25.6 ± 6.3 mm), and lateral (21.8 ± 5.7 mm) regions. All pairwise comparisons of regional differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05), except for the comparison between the ventral and medial regions (P = 0.88). Evaluation of the CCT while controlling for age (2–5 years vs. 6–10 years) demonstrated an increased CTT with an increasing age for the central, ventral, medial and lateral regions. A decrease in the CTT of the dorsal region was noted with increasing age.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance Corneal touch threshold values in 40 eyes of 20 healthy adult alpacas were determined using a Cochet‐Bonnet esthesiometer. This study demonstrated the central corneal region to be most sensitive. Values obtained may serve as reference values in subsequent studies.
Clinical utility of a complete diagnostic protocol for the ocular evaluation of free‐living raptors
Authors: Labelle Amber L. , Whittington Julia K. , Breaux Carrie B. , Labelle Philippe , Mitchell Mark A. , Zarfoss Mitzi K. , Schmidt Stephanie A. , Hamor Ralph E.
Published: April 2011

Objective: To describe a protocol for the examination of free‐living raptors and report the ophthalmic examination findings of seven raptor species native to central Illinois, namely the barred owl, Cooper’s hawk, eastern screech owl, great horned owl, American kestrel, red‐tailed hawk, and turkey vulture and to determine if the findings relative to visual prognosis affected eligibility for future release.

Animals studied: Seventy‐nine free‐living raptors.

Procedures: Under manual restraint, complete ophthalmic examination including slit‐lamp biomicroscopy and indirect funduscopy, applanation tonometry, rebound tonometry, ocular morphometrics, B‐mode ultrasound, and electroretinography (ERG) were performed on each bird. Histopathology of enucleated globes was performed after euthanasia or death in selected cases.

Results: The examination protocol was easily performed using manual restraint alone on all birds. Ocular lesions were detected in 48.1% of birds, with 47.3% affected unilaterally and 52.6% affected bilaterally. Ocular lesions were considered to be vision threatening in 29.0% of the unilaterally affected birds and 29.0% of the bilaterally affected birds. The most common case outcomes were discharge from hospital to rehabilitation facility (45.6%) followed by euthanasia (43.0%). The presence of an ocular lesion or a vision‐threatening ocular lesion was not significantly associated with outcome. Reference ranges are reported for B‐mode ultrasound, ocular morphometrics, and horizontal corneal diameter in all species.

Conclusion: Complete ophthalmic examination can be supplemented by the use of ocular morphometrics, ultrasound, and ERG in the manually restrained raptor. These advanced diagnostic techniques may be useful in developing more objective criteria for evaluating eligibility for release following rehabilitation of free‐living birds of prey.