bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An In Situ Hybridization and Immunohistochemical Study of Cytauxzoonosis in Domestic Cats
Authors: Susta L. , Torres-Velez F. , Zhang J. , Brown C.
Published: July 2009

Cytauxzoonosis, caused by the protozoan parasite, Cytauxzoon felis, is a tick-borne disease of domestic cats causing high mortality. The reservoir is wild felids. In this study, 7 archived cases of the disease were examined through in situ hybridization for localization of the parasite and by immunohistochemistry for various cell markers to characterize infected cells. The riboprobe used was specific for the 16S-like rRNA subunit of Babesia microti, which shares 91% identity with the same gene for C. felis. In situ hybridization highlighted the presence of the organism in several tissues, most prominently lung and spleen, and, in general, there were 2 to 10 times more infected cells seen with in situ hybridization than with HE. Parasite-laden cells were usually found within vessels. These cells were often tightly packed and frequently formed parasitic thrombi. Immunohistochemistry with an antilysozyme antibody confirmed the macrophage origin of the infected cells. Using an antibody specific for calprotectin (Mac387), parasitized cells were markedly devoid of this protein, which may explain the lack of diapedesis and vascular crowding of parasitized cells, providing more circulating parasites for the tick vector. Immunohistochemical labeling for 2 proliferation markers, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and p53, indicated that parasitized cells have a heightened replicative ability, which is probably an additional parasite-driven modification to facilitate survival and transmission.
Histologic, Immunohistochemical, and Electron Microscopic Features of a Unique Pulmonary Tumor in Cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus)
Authors: Garner M. M. , Latimer K. S. , Mickley K. A. , Ritzman T. K. , Nordhausen R. W.
Published: July 2009

A unique form of pulmonary malignancy develops in cockatiels. This report describes the gross, histologic, electron microscopic, and immunohistochemical features of this tumor in 6 cockatiels. DNA in-situ hybridization for polyomavirus in the neoplasm was also performed. The tumor was comprised predominantly of compact sheets of anaplastic round to polygonal cells. All tumors had a high mitotic index, and had occasional large clear to slightly basophilic intranuclear inclusions that caused peripheral dispersal or complete masking of chromatin. Tumors were invasive but convincing metastases were not observed. Transmission electron microscopy identified intracytoplasmic intermediate filaments, desmosomes between cells, and intranuclear cytoplasmic invaginations corresponding to the intranuclear inclusions in light microscopic sections. Neoplastic cells stained positive for vimentin, lysozyme, and in 1 bird, pan cytokeratin. All 6 pulmonary neoplasms were negative for avian polyomavirus using the FN-19/FN-40 cocktail and the long VP-1 probe. We propose that these tumors may be poorly differentiated carcinomas of pulmonary or thymic origin.
Comparative Skeletal Muscle Histopathologic and Ultrastructural Features in Two Forms of Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy in Horses
Authors: McCue M. E. , Armién A. G. , Lucio M. , Mickelson J. R. , Valberg S. J.
Published: July 2009

Polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM) has been found in more than 35 different horse breeds through identification of abnormal storage of polysaccharide in muscle biopsies. A dominant mutation in the glycogen synthase 1 gene ( GYS1) accounts for a substantial proportion of PSSM cases in at least 17 breeds, including Quarter Horses, but some horses diagnosed with PSSM by muscle histopathologic analysis are negative for the mutation. We hypothesized that a second distinct form of glycogen storage disease exists in GYS1 -negative horses with PSSM. The objectives of this study were to compare the histopathologic features, ultrastructure of polysaccharide, signalment, history, and presenting complaints of GYS1 -negative Quarter Horses and related breeds with PSSM to those of GYS1 -positive horses with PSSM. The total histopathologic score in frozen sections of skeletal muscle stained with hematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid Schiff (PAS) and amylase-PAS stains from 53 GYS1-negative horses did not differ from that of 52 GYS1 -positive horses. Abnormal polysaccharide was fine granular or homogenous in appearance (49/53; 92%), often amylase-sensitive (28/53; 53%), more commonly located under the sarcolemma, and consisting of β glycogen particles in GYS1 -negative horses. However, in GYS1 -positive horses, abnormal polysaccharide was usually coarse granular (50/52; 96%), amylase-resistant (51/52; 98%), more commonly cytoplasmic, and consisting of β glycogen particles or, in some myofibers, filamentous material surrounded by β glycogen particles. Retrospective analysis found that GYS1 -negative horses ( n = 43) were younger at presentation (4.9 ± 0.6 years vs. 6.7 ± 0.3 years for GYS1 -positive horses) and were more likely to be intact males than GYS1 -positive horses ( n = 160). We concluded that 2 forms of PSSM exist and often have distinctive abnormal polysaccharide. However, because evaluation of the histologic appearance of polysaccharide can be subjective and affected by age, the gold standard for diagnosis of PSSM at present would appear to be testing for the GYS1 mutation followed by evaluating muscle biopsy for characteristic abnormal polysaccharide in those horses that are negative for the mutation.
Cox-2 Expression in Canine Mammary Carcinomas
Authors: Lavalle G. E. , Bertagnolli A. C. , Tavares W. L. F. , Cassali G. D.
Published: July 2009

Mammary tumors are among the most common neoplastic processes in female dogs. Prostaglandin E2, the catalytic product of Cox-2, may promote tumor development and angiogenesis. It has been investigated in several human cancers and also correlated with the evolution of the disease. However, the clinical implications of tumor pathology require more investigation in veterinary medicine. Angiogenesis is essential for the growth and metastasis of major solid tumors and has been correlated with prognosis in human and canine breast cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate Cox-2 expression and microvessel density in canine mammary carcinomas and to correlate them with overall survival of the animal. Cox-2 and angiogenesis were assessed by immunohistochemistry in 46 mammary carcinomas (19 ductal and 27 metaplastic) and in healthy mammary glands. To assess tumor angiogenesis, microvessel density (MVD) was determined by CD31 staining. Immunostaining revealed that 46/46 (100%) of the tumors were positive for Cox-2 and CD31, and there was no statistical difference among tumor types. Cox-2 protein expression correlated positively with CD31 staining ( r = 0.3742, P = .0104) but did not correlate significantly with tumor type. Longer overall survival was observed in metaplastic carcinomas ( P = .028), in tumors with low microvessel density ( P = .0002) and with low Cox-2 score ( P = .01). Our results demonstrate that increased microvessel density and increased Cox-2 expression were linearly related in the canine mammary tumors studied and were also related to worse prognosis and shorter overall survival. This suggests that Cox-2 inhibitors could be an alternative for the treatment and control of advanced neoplastic mammary disease in female dogs.
Melamine- and Cyanuric Acid—Associated Renal Failure in Pigs in Thailand
Authors: Nilubol D. , Pattanaseth T. , Boonsri K. , Pirarat N. , Leepipatpiboon N.
Published: July 2009

A newly observed syndrome characterized by progressive weight loss, pallor, and high mortality was reported in many swine herds across Thailand from February through May 2007. To determine the cause of the new syndrome, 5 pigs, 4–8 weeks of age, were submitted to the diagnostic laboratory for necropsy examination. All 5 pigs were underweight, with pallor and rough coats. The kidneys of all 5 pigs were yellowish and slightly swollen, with precipitation of crystalline material on the cut surface. Histologically, epithelial degeneration and necrosis were evident in proximal and distal tubules and collecting ducts. Round, yellow-brown crystals with radiating striations were diffusely distributed through the lumen of proximal and distal tubules and collecting ducts. Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels were elevated. Melamine and analogs, including cyanuric acid, were detected by gas chromatography mass spectrometry. The evidence reported here suggests that melamine- and cyanuric acid-adulterated feed caused renal failure in these pigs.
Characterization of a US Sheep Scrapie Isolate with Short Incubation Time
Authors: Hamir A. N. , Richt J. A. , Kunkle R. A. , Greenlee J. J. , Bulgin M. S. , Gregori L. , Rohwer R. G.
Published: July 2009

Scrapie is a naturally occurring fatal neurodegenerative disease of sheep and goats. Susceptibility to the disease is partly dependent upon the genetic makeup of the host. In a previous study it was shown that sheep intracerebrally inoculated with US scrapie inoculum (No. 13–7) developed terminal disease within an average of 19 months. We have since produced an inoculum, No. x124 from pooled brains of US-origin sheep scrapie, that results in incubations nearly threefold shorter. The present study documents clinicopathologic findings and the distribution of abnormal prion proteins (PrPSc) by immunohistochemical (IHC) and Western blot (WB) techniques, in tissues of sheep inoculated with No. x124. All inoculated sheep developed clinical disease and were euthanatized within an average of 7.7 months postinoculation (MPI). Sheep that had valine/valine or alamine/valine at codon 136 of prion protein ( PRNP) gene developed the disease faster and were euthanatized at an average of 4.3 and 5.6 MPI, respectively. Also, the inoculum was able to induce disease in a short time (7 MPI) in a sheep that was relatively resistant (QR at codon 171) to scrapie. This indicates that inoculum No. x124 appears to induce scrapie in shorter time than inoculum No. 13–7, especially in sheep homozygous or heterozygous for valine at codon 136.
Influence of Catechol-O-Methyltransferase (COMT) Genotypes on the Prognosis of Canine Mammary Tumors
Authors: Pereira P. Dias , Lopes C. C. , Matos A. J. F. , Pinto D. , Gärtner F. , Lopes C. , Medeiros R.
Published: July 2009

Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) is an important enzyme involved in inactivation of catechol estrogens, which are metabolites with carcinogenic properties. Some investigations in human breast cancer associate a genetic polymorphism in the COMT gene (COMT val158met) with an increased risk and poor clinical progression of the disease. In dogs, there are 2 recognized single nucleotide polymorphisms in the COMT gene (COMTG216A and COMTG482A); however, their influence on the outcome of mammary neoplasms has never been investigated. The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of COMT in the clinical progression of canine mammary tumors, namely in recurrence, metastasis and survival by testing 2 SNPs (G216A and G482A), and 2 genotypes of the COMT gene. A case series was conducted analyzing genomic DNA samples by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism from 80 bitches with mammary tumors. Animals were submitted to an active follow-up study for a period of 24 months after surgery. We observed that bitches carrying both genetic variations simultaneously are more likely to develop recurrence of mammary lesions. Our results demonstrate a possible role for COMT genotypes in the outcome of mammary neoplasms in the dog. Identifying a genetic factor predictive of recurrence may be useful in selecting the most effective surgical approach for canine mammary neoplasms.
Clinicopathologic Features of Experimental Clostridium perfringens Type D Enterotoxemia in Cattle
Authors: Filho E. J. F. , Carvalho A. U. , Assis R. A. , Lobato F. F. , Rachid M. A. , Carvalho A. A. , Ferreira P. M. , Nascimento R. A. , Fernandes A. A. , Vidal J. E. , Uzal F. A.
Published: July 2009

This study was designed to experimentally reproduce enterotoxemia by Clostridium perfringens type D in cattle and to characterize the clinicopathologic findings of this disease. Fourteen 9-month-old calves were inoculated intraduodenally according to the following schedule: group 1 ( n = 4), C. perfringens type D whole culture; group 2 ( n = 3), C. perfringens type D washed cells; group 3 ( n = 5), C. perfringens type D filtered and concentrated supernatant; group 4 ( n = 2), sterile, nontoxic culture medium. In addition, all animals received a 20% starch solution in the abomasum. Ten animals from groups 1 (4/4), 2 (3/3), and 3 (3/5) showed severe respiratory and neurologic signs. Gross findings were observed in these 10 animals and consisted of acute pulmonary edema, excessive protein-rich pericardial fluid, watery contents in the small intestine, and multifocal petechial hemorrhages on the jejunal mucosa. The brain of one animal of group 2 that survived for 8 days showed multifocal, bilateral, and symmetric encephalomalacia in the corpus striatum. The most striking histologic changes consisted of perivascular high protein edema in the brain, and alveolar and interstitial proteinaceous pulmonary edema. The animal that survived for 8 days and that had gross lesions in the corpus striatum showed histologically severe, focal necrosis of this area, cerebellar peduncles, and thalamus. Koch's postulates have been met and these results show that experimental enterotoxemia by C. perfringens type D in cattle has similar clinical and pathologic characteristics to the natural and experimental disease in sheep.
Reversible Fibroadenomatous Mammary Hyperplasia in Male and Female New Zealand White Rabbits Associated with Cyclosporine A Administration
Authors: Krimer P. M. , Harvey S. B. , Blas-Machado U. , Lauderdale J. D. , Moore P. A.
Published: July 2009

All male and female New Zealand white rabbits in a limbal cell graft study developed marked generalized mammary gland hypertrophy. Postprocedural medications included ophthalmic 0.1% dexamethasone, ophthalmic 0.5% cyclosporine, and subcutaneous cyclosporine A. Cytologic examination revealed epithelial clusters with minimal malignant criteria. On histologic evaluation, there was diffuse glandular hyperplasia with mild cellular atypia and ductal ectasia separated by abundant hypercellular fibrous stroma, consistent with fibroadenomatous mammary gland hyperplasia. The hyperplasia resolved within 2 weeks of cessation of cyclosporine, and at necropsy identifiable mammary masses were not found. Very little has been reported about the use of cyclosporine in laboratory rabbits and its association with development of mammary gland hyperplasia. This is the first report in which administration of cyclosporine to male and female rabbits at a dose as low as 5 mg/kg/day induced benign fibroadenomatous mammary gland hyperplasia. This change regressed after cessation of the drug.
Re-evaluation of Kidney Histopathology from 13-Week Toxicity and Two-Year Carcinogenicity Studies of Melamine in the F344 Rat
Authors: Hard G. C. , Flake G. P. , Sills R. C.
Published: July 2009

The histopathologic changes induced in F344 rat kidney by oral administration of melamine for 13-week and 2-year periods in studies conducted by the National Toxicology Program, NIH, 25 from 1976 to 1983 have been re-evaluated and described in detail. A constellation of tubule changes extending from papilla to cortex consistently included tubule dilatation and tubule basophilia as salient features at the subchronic time point. By 2 years, these lesions had usually resolved into fibrotic scars, in which tubule loss and collagen deposition were prominent, running from superficial cortex into the medulla. These fibrotic lesions required discrimination from chronic scars resulting from infarcts and foci of chronic progressive nephropathy (CPN). A case is presented here for interpreting the constellation of histologic changes induced in rats by melamine as representing an ascending form of nephropathy. The term retrograde nephropathy is considered to be the appropriate nomenclature for both the acute and chronic lesions. The cause for the reflux, emanating from the lower urinary tract, appeared not to be infection as an inflammatory response was not prominent. It can be speculated that melamine precipitation in the lower urinary tract created pressure effects through transient obstruction leading to the renal changes. These changes were different from those involved in a major US outbreak of renal disease and death in cats and dogs associated with triazine-contaminated pet food, in which crystalluria from insoluble melamine/cyanuric acid complexes occurred in the kidney. However, the rat findings may be relevant to melamine-associated kidney disease recently reported in infants in China.
Spontaneous Idiopathic Arteritis of the Testicular Artery in Raccoons (Procyon lotor)
Authors: Hamir A. N. , Palmer M. , Li H. , Stasko J. , Rogers D. G.
Published: July 2009

The testes and the spermatic cord of raccoons ( Procyon lotor, kits to adult breeders; n = 48) were examined. Segmental arteritis confined to the extratesticular portions of the testicular artery was present in raccoons of all ages. The arterial changes were seen in laboratory-confined experimental and control animals as well as in wild-caught raccoons. The lesions consisted of proliferative endarteritis with presence of inflammatory cells within the intima, media, and the adventitial regions of most affected vessels. Some aspects of the proliferative arterial lesions were reminiscent of systemic necrotizing vasculitis (polyarteritis nodosa), an immunologically mediated condition of animals and humans. Etiologic agents were not identified at the affected sites. Arteritis was not attributed to the administration of infectious agents because it was present in raccoons of all age and origin. To our knowledge multifocal arteritis confined to the testicular artery has not previously been documented in raccoons.
A Data-capture Tool for Mouse Pathology Phenotyping
Authors: Sundberg B. A. , Schofield P. N. , Gruenberger M. , Sundberg J. P.
Published: July 2009

The Mouse Disease Information System is a free Microsoft Access database (http://research.jax.org/faculty/sundberg/index.html) designed by veterinary pathologists to aid veterinary pathologists in data acquisition, analysis, and coordination of tissue-sample archives. Linking the system to the Mouse Anatomy and Mouse Pathology Ontologies provides controlled vocabulary (and spelling) for organ, tissue, and diagnosis. Severity scores provide a quantitative assessment of all lesions to enable quantitative trait locus analysis for large-scale studies. Individual diagnoses can be verified for their definition by online linkage to Pathbase.net. Histologic images can be accessed from Pathbase by using the Mouse Pathology Ontology directly for comparison with slides being viewed at the time of data entry and providing the user with a reference and a “virtual second opinion.”
Meningoencephalitis in a Polar Bear Caused by Equine Herpesvirus 9 (EHV-9)
Authors: Donovan T. A. , Schrenzel M. D. , Tucker T. , Pessier A. P. , Bicknese B. , Busch M. D. M. , Wise A. G. , Maes R. , Kiupel M. , McKnight C. , Nordhausen R. W.
Published: July 2009

A 12-year-old female polar bear ( Ursus maritimus) developed a sudden onset of muscle tremors, erratic circling, increased blinking, head shaking, and ptyalism, which progressed to partial and generalized seizures. Ancillary diagnostic tests were inconclusive, and the only significant laboratory finding was nonsuppurative pleocytosis of cerebrospinal fluid. Euthanasia was elected. Microscopic evaluation demonstrated multifocal, random nonsuppurative meningoencephalitis involving most prominently the rostral cerebral cortex, as well as the thalamus, midbrain, and rostral medulla. Lesions consisted of inflammation, neuronal necrosis, gliosis, and both neuronal and glial basophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies. Immunohistochemistry with a polyclonal antibody reactive to several equine herpesviruses was positive within affected areas of the brain, and polymerase chain reaction conclusively demonstrated the presence of only equine herpesvirus 9. The clinical and morphologic features of this case resemble other fatal herpesvirus encephalitides derived from interspecies transmission and underscore the need for extreme caution when managing wild or captive equids.
Encephalomyelopathy and Polyneuropathy Associated with Neuronal Vacuolation in Two Boxer Littermates
Authors: Geiger D. A. , Miller A. D. , Cutter-Schatzberg K. , Shelton G. D. , de Lahunta A. , Schatzberg S. J.
Published: July 2009

Neuronal vacuolation and spinocerebellar degeneration is a rare, presumably inherited condition that is reported only in Rottweilers and in crossbred dogs with known or potential Rottweiler heritage. Gross and histopathologic findings include laryngeal muscle atrophy, neuronal vacuolation, and a combined central and peripheral axonopathy. Two 6-month-old Boxer puppies from the same litter were referred for evaluation of progressive pelvic limb paresis and ataxia, upper airway stridor, and visual deficits. Examination of each dog suggested a combined myelopathy and peripheral neuropathy, as well as congenital ocular disease. Gross lesions were limited to atrophy of the intrinsic laryngeal muscles. Histopathologically, there was diffuse loss of axons and myelin in the dorsolateral and ventral funiculi throughout the spinal cord and extending into the caudal aspect of the brain stem. Vacuolation of scattered neuronal cell bodies was present in the spinal cord and selected brain stem nuclei. Multifocal axonal degeneration and demyelination was observed in the recurrent laryngeal nerve, sciatic nerve, and brachial plexus and was most severe in the recurrent laryngeal nerve. Ocular abnormalities included microphthalmia, cataracts, and retinal dysplasia. The findings in these Boxer dogs, unrelated to the Rottweiler breed, are analogous to the syndrome of neuronal vacuolation and spinocerebellar degeneration reported in Rottweilers.
Cerebellar Abiotrophy in an Alpaca (Lama pacos)
Authors: Mouser P. , Lévy M. , Sojka J. E. , Ramos-Vara J. A.
Published: July 2009

Cerebellar abiotrophy, a premature degeneration of cerebellar neurons, has been described in most domestic animals. Affected animals typically present with progressive neurologic signs after a variable period of postnatal normalcy. This report describes the clinical, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical (IHC) findings of cerebellar abiotrophy in an alpaca. The alpaca developed intention tremors, hypermetria, and a wide-based stance at 1.5 years of age. Histologic lesions, confined to the cerebellar vermis, included marked absence of Purkinje cells, decreased granule cells, narrowing of the molecular layer, and thinning of white matter tracts consistent with abiotrophy. Increased cell processes in the molecular layer immunolabeled for glial fibrillary acidic protein, whereas immunoreactivity for neurofilament was reduced in the molecular layer and cerebellar folia white matter. To the investigators' knowledge, this is the first report of cerebellar abiotrophy in a camelid and the first documentation of IHC findings associated with this condition.
Diagnostic Exercise
Authors: Radaelli E. , Marchesi F. , Patton V. , Scanziani E.
Published: July 2009

A 22-week-old female 129/SvEv mouse suddenly died in the context of an experiment aimed at defining the efficacy of valproic acid in a mouse model of PML/RARα-induced acute myeloid leukemia. Histologic analysis confirmed the mouse as being affected by a progressive myeloid leukemia, with infiltration of the spleen, bone marrow, liver, kidneys, and lungs. Variably sized intravascular clumps (emboli) of dense basophilic material admixed with necrotic or lytic neoplastic cells were also observed in multiple organs. A positive reaction to Feulgen and Hoechst stain confirmed the high content in chromatin of these basophilic emboli. Cleaved caspase-3 activity was demonstrated both in the leukemic infiltrates and among the intravascular necrotic or lytic neoplastic cells accompanying the basophilic emboli. A diagnosis of acute tumor lysis syndrome related to therapy-induced massive necrosis and/or apoptosis of leukemic cells with subsequent dissemination of emboli of chromatin was proposed.
Gastric Neuroendocrine Carcinomas in Bearded Dragons (Pogona vitticeps)
Authors: Ritter J. M. , Garner M. M. , Chilton J. A. , Jacobson E. R. , Kiupel M.
Published: July 2009

This article describes a newly recognized highly malignant neoplastic entity in young bearded dragons ( Pogona vitticeps), gastric neuroendocrine carcinomas, which readily metastasize. Ten bearded dragons with histories of anorexia (8), vomiting (3), hyperglycemia (2), and anemia (3) were included in this study. All animals had neoplastic masses in their stomach, with metastasis to the liver. Microscopically, 6 of these neuroendocrine carcinomas were well-differentiated and 4 were poorly differentiated. For further characterization, immunohistochemistry for protein gene product 9.5, neuron-specific enolase, endorphin, chromogranins A and B, synaptophysin, somatostatin, insulin, glucagon, gastrin, pancreatic polypeptide, and vasoactive intestinal peptide was performed on 5 animals. Because only immunolabeling for somatostatin was consistently observed in all neoplasms, a diagnosis of somatostatinoma was made for these 5 bearded dragons. Some neoplasms also exhibited multihormonal expression. Electron microscopy performed on 1 tumor confirmed the presence of neuroendocrine granules within neoplastic cells. Gastric neuroendocrine carcinomas, and specifically somatostatinomas, have not been previously reported in bearded dragons, or other reptiles, and may be underdiagnosed due to inconsistent, ambiguous clinical signs. In humans, pancreatic somatostatinomas are associated with a syndrome of hypersomatostatinemia, which includes hyperglycemia, weight loss, and anemia, as observed in some of these bearded dragons. Somatostatinomas in humans are commonly associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (Von Recklinghausen's disease), caused by a mutation in the tumor suppressor gene NF1, which results in decreased expression of neurofibromin. In all 5 animals examined, neoplasms exhibited decreased neurofibromin expression compared with control tissues, suggesting that decreased functional neurofibromin may play a role in the pathogenesis of somatostatinomas in bearded dragons.
Histologic and Immunohistochemical Characterization of Pheochromocytoma in 6 Cotton-top Tamarins (Saguinus oedipus)
Authors: Miller A. D. , Masek-Hammerman K. , Dalecki K. , Mansfield K. G. , Westmoreland S. V.
Published: July 2009

Pheochromocytomas are uncommon neoplasms of the adrenal medulla that are most frequently reported in rats and select mouse strains. In many cases, especially those in man, pheochromocytoma is associated with familial tumor syndromes, because of inherited mutations in a variety of proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. Nonhuman primates are valuable animal models for a variety of human diseases because of their similar anatomy and physiology; however, cases of pheochromocytomas have only rarely been reported in nonhuman primates. Herein, we characterize the gross, histologic, and immunohistochemical features of pheochromocytoma in 6 cotton-top tamarins ( Saguinus oedipus). Pheochromocytomas represented 6 of 114 of the total causes of death in the studied population (5.3%) and corresponded to 16% of the total number of neoplasms. The average age of affected animals was 17.9 years. On histologic examination, all cases were defined by tight bundles, nests, and cords of neoplastic chromaffin cells. All cases had concurrent myocardial degeneration and fibrosis of varying severity and chronicity. Three of the cases (50%) also had hyalinization and medial thickening of coronary arteries consistent with hypertension. On immunohistochemical examination, 6 of 6 of the cases (100%) stained positively for chromogranin A, synaptophysin, N-CAM (or CD56), and protein gene product 9.5. None of the cases stained for glial fibrillary acidic protein. Pedigree analysis revealed inter-relatedness in 4 of 6 animals, with progenitor animals also affected with pheochromocytomas. The tumors in this population illustrate comparable histologic and immunohistochemical staining patterns with cases in other laboratory animals and humans, and, therefore, may indicate common underlying genetic alterations that precipitate tumor development.
How is a Fruit Tree Like You? Using Artistic Metaphors to Explore and Develop Emotional Competence in Children
Authors: Geldard Kathryn , Foo Rebecca Yin , Shakespeare-Finch Jane
Published: July 2009

Counselling children often requires the use of supplementary strategies in order to interest and engage the child in the therapeutic process. One such strategy is the Metaphorical Fruit Tree (MFT); an art metaphor suited to exploring and developing self-concept. Quantitative and qualitative data was used to explore the relationships between children's ability to use metaphor, age, gender, and level of emotional competence (N= 58). Quantitative and qualitative analyses revealed a significant negative relationship between self-reported emotional competence and ability to use the MFT. It is proposed that children rely on different processes to understand self and as children's ability to cognitively report on their emotional capabilities via the Emotional Competence Questionnaire (ECQ) increases, their ability to report creatively on those capabilities via the MFT is undermined. It is suggested that the MFT may be used, via creative processes and as an alternative to cognitive processes, to increase understanding and awareness of intrapersonal and interpersonal concepts of self in the child during counselling.
Turkish School Counsellors and Counselling Students' Knowledge of Adolescent Suicide
Authors: Siyez Diğdem Müge , Baş Aslı Uz
Published: July 2009

The aim of the study was to investigate the knowledge of Turkish high school counsellors and counselling students about adolescence suicide. The sample consisted of 71 school counsellors and 82 third and fourth year psychology counselling students who completed the Adolescent Suicide Behavior Questionnaire. The results showed that although counselling students have more knowledge than school counsellors, both groups are not well informed about adolescent suicide, with many school counsellors and counselling students unable to determine the risk, precipating and demographic factors and differential warning signs of adolescent suicide in Turkey.
A Comparison of Counselling Students' Needs in the United States and Nigeria
Authors: Kenny Maureen C. , Aluede Oyaziwo , McEachern Adriana
Published: July 2009

Knowledge of the needs of graduate counselling students can assist counsellor education faculty in understanding the unique concerns of this student population and thus assist in the development of adjunct services to address these important issues. This study compared the needs of graduate counselling students from the United States (U.S.) and Nigeria and found that they shared many of the same concerns, with time management as the highest-ranked concern. The implications of these results may help guide all counsellor education faculty in planning to assist students.
Validation of an Australian Academic Stress Questionnaire
Authors: Lakaev Natasha
Published: July 2009

The aim of the study was to establish the Lakaev Academic Stress Response Scale (LASRS; Lakaev, 2006) as a valid and reliable measure of stress responses. The sample consisted of 375 Bond University students from several countries (142 Australia, 5 New Zealand, 68 United States, 8 Canada, 65 Asian, 66 Europe and 21 other) and from various levels of tertiary education (266 undergraduate and 109 postgraduate). Participants completed six self-report questionnaires that related to, acculturative stress, somatic stress symptoms, academic stress, stress responses, extraversion and general stress in order to determine convergent and divergent validity. The LASRS was shown to have sound psychometric properties and was suggested to be a sound way of measuring academic stress responses, particularly for Australian students. The results are discussed in terms of past tertiary academic stress research and suggestions for future investigations.
The Comparison of the Effects of a Didactic Stress Management Program and Group Counselling on the Coping Strategies of School Counsellors
Authors: Coban Aysel Esen , Hamamci Zeynep
Published: July 2009

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of a didactic stress management program, group counselling, and a control group on school counsellors' stress coping strategies. Thirty-four school counsellors were randomly assigned to either a didactic stress management group, group counselling, or a control group. The didactic stress management group and the group counselling for stress management group were conducted concurrently for 10 consecutive weeks. A control group received no treatment. The Ways of Coping Inventory was administered to all participants at three different stages: pre-treatment, post-treatment, and at 6-month follow-up. The results indicated that both the didactic stress management group and the group counselling for stress management group showed a significant reduction in the use of helpless coping strategies and a significant increase in the optimistic coping strategies at post-treatment. At follow-up, there were obvious group differences in the use of helpless coping strategies. Only those who were treated using group counselling exhibited a decrease in helpless coping strategies at the follow-up assessment.
Cleaning Silicone Residue from Glass
Authors: Klosowski Jerome M. , Breeze Edward S. , Nicastro David H.
Published: July 2009

Silicone sealants have been used widely in the waterproofing industry because they resist deterioration. However, residue from silicone sealant (or from pre-formed silicone seals) can be difficult to remove from adjacent surfaces, if it contacts these surfaces inadvertently from improper application or fluid run-down. This article focuses on the challenge of removing silicone residue from window glass. Several of the likely sources of the silicone residue are discussed, along with the difficulty of measuring the presence of the colorless and odorless thin residue film. The testing used commercially available cleaners and digesters to attempt to remove the silicone residue. The results were mixed and largely inconclusive; however, the test methodology developed can be used for further study by additional laboratories.
Multielement Analysis of Lubricating Greases with Inductively Coupled Plasma: Atomic Emission Spectrometry
Authors: Nadkarni R. A. Kishore
Published: July 2009

A method is described for the quantitative multielement analysis of lubricating greases using inductively coupled plasma–atomic emission spectrometry. A key to this analysis is to prepare a sample solution by decomposing the grease sample through alternate means, such as ashing, microwave assisted ashing, or mineral acid decomposition. Results of an interlaboratory study conducted using this method are described.
Risk Factors for Suicidality Among a Nationally Representative Sample of High School Students
Authors: Epstein Jennifer A. , Spirito Anthony
Published: July 2009

Using the 2005 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance data (n= 13,917) of high school students, we examined the association between four domains of risk factors (alcohol/drug use, aggression, HIV risk‐related behaviors, and health problems) and indicators of suicidality (considering a suicide attempt, making a plan to attempt suicide, and actually attempting suicide). Logistic regressions showed that drug use (e.g., recent smoking, drinking before 13), victimization (e.g., threatened at school, hit by girl/boyfriend), risky sexual behavior (e.g., forced to have sex, used a condom) and two health problems (health as fair/poor, has disability/health problem) were associated with all three indicators of suicidality. These findings suggest that programs to prevent alcohol/drug use, address aggression, promote safety, and prevent unsafe sexual practices may also prevent suicidality.
Interventions for Suicidal Youth: A Review of the Literature and Developmental Considerations
Authors: Daniel Stephanie S. , Goldston David B.
Published: July 2009

Suicidal behavior is developmentally mediated, but the degree to which interventions for suicidal behaviors have been developmentally tailored has varied widely. Published controlled studies of psychosocial treatment interventions for reducing adolescent suicidal behavior are reviewed, with a particular emphasis on the developmental nuances of these interventions. In addition, developmental considerations important in the treatment of suicidal adolescents are discussed. There are insufficient data available from controlled trials to recommend one intervention over another for the treatment of suicidal youth, but interventions that are sensitive to the multiple developmental contexts have potential for greater effectiveness in reducing adolescent suicidal behavior.
Is IQ in Childhood Associated with Suicidal Thoughts and Attempts? Findings from The Mater University Study of Pregnancy and Its Outcomes
Authors: Alati Rosa , Gunnell David , Najman Jake , William Gail , Lawlor Debbie
Published: July 2009

This study explores associations of IQ at age 14 with adult symptoms of suicidal thoughts and attempts at age 21. Analysis was based on the Mater University Study of Pregnancy and its outcomes, an Australian prospective birth cohort study started in Brisbane Australia in 1981. We assessed associations with suicide thoughts, plans, and attempts. We used two measures of IQ: the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices and the Wide Range Achievement Test. In multivariable analyses, there was an inverse association between Raven's IQ and suicide thoughts, plans, and attempts, but no strong evidence of an association between the WRAT3 and the three suicidal items. Specific aspects of intelligence may be associated with suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts.
The Epidemiology of Homicide followed by Suicide: A Systematic and Quantitative Review
Authors: Large Matthew , Smith Glen , Nielssen Olav
Published: July 2009

This systematic review of population based studies of homicide followed by suicide was conducted to examine the associations between rates of homicide‐suicide, rates of other homicides and rates of suicide. The review analysed 64 samples, including the case of an outlier (Greenland) that were reported in 49 studies. There was a significant association between the rates of homicide‐suicide and those of other homicides in studies from the U.S.A. Outside the U.S.A. there was no clear association between homicide‐suicide and other homicide but there was modest but significant association between rates of suicide and homicide‐suicide. Homicide‐suicide appears to be closer in epidemiological terms to homicide than suicide in regions with high rates of homicide and measures to reduce homicide in these regions may also reduce homicide‐suicide.
A Psychometric Investigation of the Suicide Status Form II with a Psychiatric Inpatient Sample
Authors: Conrad Amy K. , Jacoby Aaron M. , Jobes David A. , Lineberry Timothy W. , Shea Catherine E. , Arnold Ewing Theresa D. , Schmid Phyllis J. , Ellenbecker Susan M. , Lee Joy L. , Fritsche Kathryn , Grenell Jennifer A. , Gehin Jessica M. , Kung Simon
Published: July 2009

We investigated the psychometric validity and reliability of the Suicide Status Form‐II (SSF‐II) developed by Jobes, Jacoby, Cimbolic, and Hustead (1997). Participants were 149 psychiatric inpatients (108 suicidal; 41 nonsuicidal) at the Mayo Clinic. Each participant completed assessment measures within 24 hours of admission and 48–72 hours later. Factor analyses of the SSF core assessment produced a robust two‐factor solution reflecting chronic and acute response styles. The SSF core assessment had good to excellent convergent and criterion validity; pre‐post SSF ratings also demonstrated moderate test‐retest reliability. The results replicated previous research and show that the SSF‐II is psychometrically sound with a high‐risk suicidal inpatient sample.
Seasonality of Violent Suicides in the Athens Greater Area
Authors: Christodoulou C. , Papadopoulos I. N. , Douzenis A. , Kanakaris N. , Leukidis C. , Gournellis R. , Vlachos K. , Papadopoulos F.C. , Lykouras L.
Published: July 2009

The aim of the study was to ascertain suicide seasonality in the Greek population and to associate this seasonal variation with age, sex, and suicide method. Studying seasonality can be of help in establishing a public health policy, related with suicide prevention. This is an epidemiologic study based on forensic evidence. We studied the deaths caused by self‐injury (trauma), namely deaths by violent suicide (not self‐poisoning). Statistically significant suicide seasonality was established with a peak in May. This seasonal variation is attributed mainly to males. As for the method, suicide by hanging peaks in June and by shooting in April. It was also observed that seasonality for individuals above the age of 45 peaks in early May.
Development of a Chinese Version of the Suicide Intent Scale
Authors: Gau Susan S.F. , Chen Chin‐Hung , Lee Charles T.C. , Chang Jung‐Chen , Cheng Andrew T.A.
Published: July 2009

This study established the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Suicide Intent Scale (SIS) in a clinic‐ and community‐based sample of 36 patients and 592 respondents, respectively. Results showed that the Chinese SIS demonstrated good inter‐rater and test‐retest reliability. Factor analysis generated three factors (Precautions, Planning, and Seriousness) explaining 92.9% of the total variance with high internal consistency. It was moderately correlated with depressive symptoms. Results suggest that the Chinese SIS is a reliable and valid instrument for use in assessing the extent of suicidal intention among subjects with deliberate self‐harm in ethnic Chinese populations.
Risk Factors for Attempting Suicide in Prisoners
Authors: Sarchiapone Marco , Carli Vladimir , Di Giannantonio Massimo , Roy Alec
Published: July 2009

We wished to examine determinants of suicidal behavior in prisoners. 903 male prisoners had a psychiatric interview which included various psychometric tests. Suicide attempters were compared with prisoners who had never attempted suicide. Significantly more of the attempters had a history of psychiatric disorder, substance abuse, a family history of suicidal behavior, convictions for violent crime, had exhibited aggressive behavior in jail, and had higher BGLHA aggression scores. A similar pattern of risk factors was found for prisoners with suicidal ideation. A lifetime history of attempting suicide, or of having suicidal ideation, is frequent in prisoners. Risk factors include family, developmental, aggression, personality, psychiatric, and substance abuse factors.
Major hyperghrelinemia in advanced well-differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas: report of three cases
Authors: Walter Thomas , Chardon Laurence , Hervieu Valérie , Cohen Richard , Chayvialle Jean-Alain , Scoazec Jean-Yves , Lombard-Bohas Catherine
Published: July 2009

Objective

We aimed to gain insight into the functional consequences of ghrelin overproduction in patients with neuroendocrine tumors and its relations with disease characteristics and evolution.

Design

We retrospectively analyzed three cases of neuroendocrine carcinomas associated with very high levels of circulating ghrelin.

Methods

Between February and October 2007, serum ghrelin levels were determined in all patients with well-differentiated endocrine carcinoma referred to our center (n=72). Three patients were found to have circulating ghrelin levels >10-fold the upper limit of normal. The clinical, biochemical, and pathological characteristics of these three patients were reviewed. The ratio between circulating acyl and total ghrelin was determined, and tumor tissue expression of ghrelin was assayed by immunohistochemistry.

Results

The three patients had massive hyperghrelinemia (respectively 49 028, 63 711, and 101 996 pg/ml), with <10% of acyl ghrelin. The corresponding primary tumors were located in the pancreas, rectum, and gallbladder; all were metastatic. There was no acromegaly; there was a decrease in appetite; and body mass index was low. Serum GH levels were only slightly increased and serum IGF1 levels were normal. Immunoreactive ghrelin was detected in the tumor tissue in the two cases in which tissue material was available. All three patients died before 12 months after the diagnosis of hyperghrelinemia.

Conclusion

Well-differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas of various origins may produce markedly high levels of circulating ghrelin, without evidence of clinical or functional consequences.
Adrenal venous sampling in primary aldosteronism: a low dilution of adrenal venous blood is crucial for a correct interpretation of the results
Authors: Ceral Jiri , Solar Miroslav , Krajina Antonin , Ballon Marek , Suba Petr , Cap Jan
Published: July 2009

Objective

In primary aldosteronism, adrenal venous sampling (AVS) is essential for subtype differentiation as it evaluates aldosterone secretion from both adrenals. Selectivity of adrenal sampling is assessed by the ratio of cortisol concentrations in adrenal venous blood and inferior vena cava blood (Cadrenal/Civc). Since the criteria for selective adrenal sampling differ among the reported literature, we performed a study to evaluate the influence of different selectivity criteria on AVS results.

Design and methods

Reports of AVS were screened retrospectively. All AVS were performed with cosyntrophin infusion. Reports containing samples with Cadrenal/Civc≥10 taken from both adrenals and at least one other adrenal sample characterised by Cadrenal/Civc≥1.1 were enrolled. For each individual, we chose reference samples that were defined by the highest Cadrenal/Civc achieved from each adrenal. The significance of the remaining samples with Cadrenal/Civc≥1.1 was analysed in regard to their respective reference samples. We assessed the impact of analysed samples on identification of lateralisation of aldosterone secretion that is crucial for decisions concerning adrenalectomy.

Results

AVS reports of 87 patients were enrolled. A total of 225 adrenal samples were analysed and divided into five groups according to Cadrenal/Civc:1.1–1.99, 2–2.99, 3–4.99, 5–9.99 and ≥10. By comparing reference with analysed samples, a concordant assessment with respect to lateralisation of aldosterone secretion was observed in 39, 52, 72, 85 and 94% of the respective groups of analysed samples.

Conclusion

AVS provides consistent information when adrenal samples with high cortisol concentrations are used.