bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grapevine habituation: Understanding of factors that contribute to neoplastic transformation and somaclonal variation
Authors: Repka V. , Baumgartnerová I.
Published: December 2008

Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis coupled to protein microarray analysis was used to examine for the first time the molecular mechanisms of grapevine habituation (
Vitis vinifera
L., cv. Limberger) at both the proteome and the interactome level. The examination of 2-D maps derived from control and habituated cell cultures revealed the presence of 55 protein spots displaying a differential expression pattern. Using computational prediction methods, fundamental differences were found between eukaryotic interactomes. It was confirmed that all the predicted protein family interactomes (the full set of protein family interactions within a proteome) of six species are scale-free networks, and that they share a small core network comprising 16 protein families related to indispensable cellular functions predominantly involved in pathogenesis, apoptosis and plant tumorigenesis. There is molecular evidence suggesting that grapevine cells which have become habituated for one or more essential factors originated from heritable alterations in the pattern of gene expression and that they can, therefore, be used as a model for the study of cell differentiation and/or neoplastic transformation.
Preliminary report on the use of biotechnology in sweet and sour cherry research
Authors: Jurković Z. , Dugalić K. , Viljevac M. , Piližota I. , Vokurka A. , Puškar B. , Pejić I.
Published: December 2008

The goal of this investigation was to determine genetic differences between autochthonous and introduced cultivars of sweet cherry and between cultivars and types of sour cherry, and to find and optimize a method for the rapid recovery of clonal material. A great number of cherry cultivars and types within the population of cv. Oblačinska sour cherry exist in Croatia and the selection of autochthonous cultivars based on special visible properties for further investigation has been done in previous research. Differences were found in a number of important agronomic traits within the populations of cv. Oblacinska sour cherry. It is suspected that autochthonous sweet cherry cultivars are synonyms for known old cultivars, which were introduced randomly and naturalized under local names. In this approach difficulties arise from the effect of non-genetic factors on the expression of certain traits. The genetic/physiological problem of S allele autoincompatibility exists within sweet cherry cultivars. The detection of S alleles is required to determine compatible cultivar pairs in the orchard. Biotechnological methods based on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) facilitate faster virus detection compared with classical serological methods and indexing. Thermotherapy and tissue culture make it possible to recover valuable clone material for introduction in the premultiplication process.
Remarks on the current discussion about bioenergy — for the public or for agricultural and rural areas only?
Authors: Ruckenbauer P.
Published: December 2008

In this paper, strategies are questioned and it is discussed whether the goals of the EU commission to replace substantial parts of the fossil energy demands by bioenergy supplies are feasible. Austria, as a member of the PPBA (Pannonian Plant Biotechnology Association), has elaborated a study on how much of the arable land can be utilized in the period between 2005 and 2020 for various bioenergy purposes. The results demonstrate that, at the most, agriculture can supply only about 22% of the total arable land needed for additional bioenergy, such as biofuel and biogas, without interfering with national food and feed supplies, and the protection of a sensible situation as regards the environment and emission.Furthermore, two research studies are presented about new production systems to achieve the better, more efficient use of crop rotations, mainly for biogas production, already being implemented in the 358 local farm biogas plants in Austria, and about the approved long-term use of the whole plant biomass of triticale varieties for heating local private and farm houses.
Food vs. fuel — A turning point for bioethanol?
Authors: Harlander K.
Published: December 2008

Bioethanol is made from sugar- or starch-containing plants that are also used in food production. In the public perception this has led to an emotional resistance against biofuels, which in real terms is not substantiated. Generally biofuels are a political product. Triggered by the oil crisis in the 1970s, fuel ethanol programmes were first launched in Brazil and in the United States. Concerns regarding energy security and sustainability, together with the option of new markets for surplus agricultural production, have led to similar measures in the EU and other countries in recent years. Accordingly, the industry invested heavily in new bioethanol plants — especially in the US — and created an additional demand for maize and wheat, with some record-breaking prices noted in late 2007. A look back into statistics shows a drastic decline in real prices for decades, which have now simply returned to the level of 30 years ago. The grain used for bioethanol is currently only 1.6% in the EU and is therefore unlikely to be the real driver of price development. The European Commission concludes in its review of agricultural markets that Europe can do both: nutrition and biofuels.
Limitations of using Differential Display RT-PCR in the chase for smoke-related genes
Authors: Soós V. , Juhász A. , Sebestyén E. , Light M. , Staden J. , Balázs E.
Published: December 2008

Differential Display RT-PCR was developed before the genomic era to serve as a tool in hunting for genes. Nowadays, applications using state-of-the-art techniques to obtain more information about the whole transcriptome or the genome have rapidly overtaken DD-RT-PCR. This paper will discuss a few of the major drawbacks and limitations of using this once highly valued method.
Serum IGF-I, IGFBP-3, and matrix metalloproteinase-7 levels and acquired chemo-resistance in advanced colorectal cancer
Authors: Gallego Rosa , Codony-Servat Jordi , García-Albéniz Xabier , Carcereny Enric , Longarón Raquel , Oliveras Angeles , Tosca Mónica , Augé Josep Maria , Gascón Pedro , Maurel Joan
Published: December 2008

Insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) is thought to have antiapoptotic and mitogenic properties in colorectal cancer, whereas IGF-binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) seems to exert a pro-apoptotic effect. Additionally, matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7), an enzyme with in vitro ability to degrade IGFBP-3, has been shown to be a prognostic factor in advanced colorectal cancer (ACRC). We studied whether chemotherapy treatment for ACRC modulates IGF-I, IGFBP-3, and MMP-7 serum levels. In 41 patients undergoing first-line therapy for ACRC, serum levels of IGF-I, IGFBP-3, and MMP-7 were measured with immunoassays at baseline and every 3 months until progressive disease, or a maximum of five determinations, during a chemotherapy regimen of either FOLFOX or FOLFIRI therapies. Associations were assessed for paired samples, using t-test or Wilcoxon ranks test depending on normality of the variable, verified with Shapiro-Wilk test. An average of four extractions (range 3–5) were done, for a total of 157 determinations. Mean pretreatment values of IGF-I, IGFBP-3, and MMP-7 were 83 (95% CI, 73–92) ng/ml, 2372 (95% CI, 2121–2623) ng/ml, and 10.6 (95% CI, 7.21–13.98) ng/ml respectively. No significant changes in IGF-I were found, but a significant increase in IGFBP-3 serum concentrations was observed during or after chemotherapy treatment without progressive disease, compared with basal levels (P<0.001). A significant decrease in IGFBP-3 to 1983 ng/ml (95% CI, 1675–2292) and a significant increase in MMP-7 levels to 14.6 (7.6–21.7) ng/ml were observed at progression of disease compared with baseline and treatment levels (P<0.001). This study shows that IGFBP-3 and MMP-7 serum levels change during chemotherapy treatment. The increased MMP-7 levels at disease progression support the hypothesis that this protease could play a role in acquired resistance by degrading IGFBP-3.
Comparison of density gradient and single layer centrifugation of stallion spermatozoa: Yield, motility and survival
Authors: Morrell J. M. , Dalin A‐M. , Rodriguez‐Martinez H.
Published: December 2008

Reasons for performing study: A new, simpler, technique of colloidal centrifugation has recently been developed, designated single layer centrifugation (SLC). This technique requires evaluation by comparison with a density gradient for its ability to select the best quality spermatozoa and its practicality of use on studfarms.

Objective: To compare the effect of 2 methods of colloidal centrifugation, density gradient centrifugation and single layer centrifugation, on stallion sperm motility, yield and survival, using freshly collected extended stallion semen.

Methods: Aliquots of extended stallion semen from 10 stallions (38 ejaculates) were processed by the 2 methods of colloidal centrifugation. For both uncentrifuged and centrifuged samples, sperm yield was calculated and subjective sperm motility assessed over several days to provide an estimate of sperm survival. Some stored semen samples, held at 4°C overnight, were also available for testing.

Results: For fresh, extended semen, a similar recovery yield of motile spermatozoa was seen for the 2 methods of preparation for single layers and density gradients, respectively. Sperm motility and survival rate were significantly improved by colloidal centrifugation compared to unprocessed ejaculate, without any significant difference between methods (SLC vs. gradient). However, the yield was reduced by 18–20% when cold‐stored semen was used for centrifugation compared to fresh semen; and more variation between ejaculates was observed than for fresh ejaculates. Again, sperm motility and sperm survival were improved in the centrifuged sperm preparations compared to stored, unprocessed ejaculates.

Potential relevance: The 2 colloid centrifugation techniques produce equivalent sperm preparations in terms of sperm quality. However, the SLC method would be more practical and convenient for use in the field.
Storage‐associated artefact in equine muscle biopsy samples
Authors: Stanley R. L. , Maile C. , Piercy R. J.
Published: December 2008

Reasons for performing study: Muscle biopsy is increasingly used in equine veterinary practice for investigating exertional, inflammatory or immune mediated myopathies and unexplained muscle atrophy. Although formalin‐fixed samples are often used, for complete evaluation, fresh‐frozen tissue is required. Freezing muscle in veterinary practice is impractical: samples sent to specialist laboratories for processing are therefore susceptible to delays, potentially leading to artefact and compromising histological interpretation.

Hypothesis: Altered temperature, duration and hydration status influence the severity of storage‐induced artefact in equine muscle.

Methods: Skeletal muscle obtained immediately post euthanasia was divided into 6 independent samples from each of 8 horses. One sample per horse was frozen immediately in isopentane precooled in liquid nitrogen. Additional samples were stored in conditions designed to mimic possible situations encountered in practice, including increased storage times, temperature and hydration status. Following storage, stored samples were frozen as before. Cryosections were stained using haematoxylin and eosin and ranked for artefact on 2 occasions by 2 blinded observers. The best samples were processed subsequently with a panel of routine stains and immunolabelled for collagen V to enable the measurement of minimum fibre diameters.

Results: Both prolonged storage and increased hydration resulted in more storage‐associated artefact. Samples stored for 24 h chilled on dry gauze were ranked higher than those stored on damp gauze; however, a panel of routinely‐used histochemical staining techniques was unaffected by chilled 24 h storage. There was no significant effect of storage on mean fibre diameter; however, both chilled dry and damp storage for 24 h caused a significant increase in fibre‐size variability.

Conclusion and potential relevance: Caution should be exercised when interpreting fibre size profiles in shipped samples. Equine muscle biopsy samples are optimally shipped in dry gauze, sealed in plastic containers and shipped on ice packs to be processed within 24 h and can thus be interpreted by the receiving laboratory with minimal artefact.
Efficacy of thermal cautery for intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate as compared to conservatively treated horses: Results from 78 treadmill diagnosed horses
Authors: Barakzai S. Z. , Boden L. A. , Hillyer M. H. , Marlin D. J. , Dixon P. M.
Published: December 2008

Reasons for performing study: Previously, objective comparisons of surgical procedures to relieve dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) have been limited by the presumptive basis of the diagnostic measures applied.

Objectives: To assess and compare the efficacy of thermal cautery surgery to conservatively treated controls in racehorses definitively diagnosed with idiopathic intermittent DDSP.

Hypothesis: Both conservative and surgical treatments have a beneficial result on racing performance in racehorses affected with DDSP.

Methods: Race records were obtained for Thoroughbred racehorses definitively diagnosed with DDSP using highspeed treadmill endoscopy. Racing performance was assessed based on prize money won.

Results: Forty‐eight horses that underwent thermal cautery and 30 conservatively treated controls were included. Pretreatment earnings significantly decreased in the race immediately prior to diagnosis. A high proportion of previously raced horses returned to racing after both treatments (90–96%). Intrahorse comparison of earnings in 3 races pre‐ vs. post treatment showed that 53% of conservatively treated horses and 36% of the thermal cautery group had improved performance. Although the difference between these 2 groups may be interpreted as being clinically significant, it was not statistically significant.

Conclusions and potential relevance: A higher percentage of conservatively treated controls had improved individual performance compared to horses treated with thermal cautery. Thermal cautery appears less effective than other previously published surgical treatments for DDSP. Comparison of the 2 treatment methods should be interpreted cautiously because treatments were not randomised, resulting in baseline variability between groups.
Effect of poll flexion and dynamic laryngeal collapse on tracheal pressure in Norwegian Coldblooded Trotter racehorses
Authors: Strand E. , Fjordbakk C.T. , Holcombe S. J. , Risberg A. , Chalmers H. J.
Published: December 2008

Reason for performing study: Dynamic laryngeal collapse (DLC) associated with poll flexion is a newly diagnosed upper respiratory tract obstructive disorder that causes poor racing performance.

Objectives: To determine if Norwegian Coldblooded Trotters (NCTs) affected with DLC associated with poll flexion differ from normal, elite NCTs based on simple airway mechanics measurements.

Methods: Five normal elite NCTs and 6 NCTs diagnosed previously with DLC underwent treadmill videoendoscopy while tracheal pressures were measured continuously. Alternating head positions were used such that horses were exercised with free head carriage and induced poll flexion at heart rates >200 beats/min.

Results: Peak inspiratory tracheal pressures were significantly more negative for horses with DLC compared to the elite horses. This difference was only significant during the exercise phases when the poll region was flexed, P = 0.0015. Head position significantly affected peak inspiratory pressure for both elite and affected horses, P<0.0001.

Conclusions and clinical relevance: Induced poll flexion significantly affected peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) in all horses; however, PIPs were significantly more negative in those affected with DLC. Based upon the tracheal pressure measurements recorded in this study, DLC in NCTs is a severe obstructive upper respiratory tract disorder that is induced by poll flexion.
Long‐term assessment of horses and ponies post exposure to monensin sodium in commercial feed
Authors: Hughes K. J. , Hoffmann K. L. , Hodgson D. R.
Published: December 2008

Reasons for performing study: Acute monensin intoxication in equids is well described; however, the long‐term effects of sublethal intoxication and ability to return to previous use are less well understood. Long‐term observations may allow improved estimation of prognosis in cases of sublethal intoxication.

Objectives: To assess horses and ponies exposed to sublethal amounts of monensin for evidence of chronic sequelae and ability to return to prior/intended use.

Methods: Twenty‐nine horses and 8 ponies were assessed utilising serum biochemistry, treadmill exercise stress testing, electrocardiography, and pre‐ and post exercise echocardiography ≥6 weeks after ingestion of monensin‐contaminated feed. Animals with evidence of monensin‐induced cardiomyopathy were re‐examined after a period of rest of ≥11 months. Follow‐up information was obtained by owner telephone interview ≥52 months after exposure.

Results: During resting echocardiography, 11 animals had reduced/low‐normal left ventricular fractional shortening (FS); an increase in FS in 8 of these animals was measured ≥11 months later. Six animals had reduced or low‐normal FS during post exercise echocardiography. Two horses had ventricular premature depolarisations during exercise. Follow‐up information was available for 35 animals: 21 returned to athletic/reproductive use, 13 were retired immediately and one died. Mean FS increased significantly (P<0.001) between initial and second examination in 15 animals that underwent resting echocardiography on 2 occasions.

Conclusions: Some equids exposed to sublethal doses of monensin may not develop permanent myocardial disease and a return to athletic/reproductive use is possible.

Potential relevance: Exercise stress testing, echocardiography and electrocardiography may be useful for detection and monitoring of cardiac dysfunction in equids exposed to monensin and determining whether a return to athletic/reproductive use is possible.
Comparison of radiography and ultrasonography to detect osteochondrosis lesions in the tarsocrural joint: A prospective study
Authors: Relave F. , Meulyzer M. , Alexander K. , Beauchamp G. , Marcoux M.
Published: December 2008

Reasons for performing study: Lesions located on the medial malleolus of the tarsocrural joint can be difficult to image radiographically. Ultrasonography allows evaluation of articular cartilage and subchondral bone.

Objectives: To compare dorso30° lateral‐plantaromedial‐oblique (DL‐PlMO) and dorso45° views to detect lesions on the medial malleolus, to validate the use of ultrasonography to show lesions in the tarsocrural joint and to compare its sensitivity to radiography.

Methods: Tarsocrural joints (n = 111) with osteochondrosis were evaluated ultrasonographically and radiographically prior to arthroscopic lesion debridement. A complete radiographic examination was made and the best view to detect each lesion recorded. Longitudinal and transverse ultrasonography of the dorsal aspect of the joint was performed and the best scan plane to image each lesion recorded.

Results: There were 94 joints with lesions on the distal intermediate ridge of tibia, 24 with lesions on the medial malleolus, and 4 with lesions on the lateral trochlear ridge. The sensitivity of radiography to detect lesions on the medial malleolus and distal intermediate ridge of tibia was 71 and 96%, respectively. Eighty‐two percent of lesions on the medial malleolus were better imaged on dorso30° view. The sensitivity of ultrasonography to detect lesions on the medial malleolus and distal intermediate ridge of tibia was 83 and 98%, respectively. Ultrasonography was significantly more sensitive than radiography to detect lesions on the medial malleolus and distal intermediate ridge of tibia.

Conclusion: Dorso30° lateral‐plantaromedial‐oblique view was the best to image lesions on the medial malleolus. Ultrasonography was a valuable diagnostic tool to diagnose lesions in the tarsocrural joint and was more sensitive than radiography for lesions located on the medial malleolus and distal intermediate ridge of tibia.

Clinical relevance: Radiographic examination should include a dorso30° view for detection of lesions on the medial malleolus and ultrasonography should be considered to diagnose osteochondrosis in the tarsocrural joints.
Lesions of the deep digital flexor tendon in the digit: A correlative MRI and post mortem study in control and lame horses
Authors: Blunden A. , Murray R. , Dyson S.
Published: December 2008

Reasons for performing study: Lameness associated with lesions of the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) in the digit is now recognised as an important cause of lameness, but there is currently limited information about the pathological nature of the lesions.

Objectives: To compare: signal intensity changes on magnetic resonance images with histopathology; and histopathological changes in the DDFT from horses with no history of foot‐related lameness (Group C) and horses with lesions of the DDFT confirmed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (Group D).

Methods: Transverse sections of the DDFT were harvested from 3 sites in all horses: 1) immediately proximal to the navicular bursa (E1); 2) at the level of the navicular bone (E2); and 3) close to the tendon's insertion (E3). If lesions were identified at E1 or had been identified further proximally using MRI, additional sections were obtained until, in most cases, the proximal limit of the lesion was identified. All DDFTs were graded histopathologically using predefined criteria. The MR images were reviewed to determine the location and sequences in which increased signal intensity was seen.

Results: No haemorrhage or inflammatory cell infiltration was seen in any horse. At level E1, septal thickening, ghosting of blood vessels and blood vessel occlusion were common in Group D, but were not seen in Group C. Less commonly, there was core necrosis, only seen in Group D. At level E2, septal and vascular changes were most obvious in Group D. Core necrosis, dorsal splitting, crevicing and fibrillation were seen only in Group D. Septal and vascular changes were present in both Groups C and D at level E3, but fibrocartilaginous metaplasia, splitting, crevicing and fibrillation, or core necrosis or fibroplasia were seen only in Group D. Core lesions in Group D often extended proximal to E1, and ranged in length from 0.5–13 cm. Core necrosis was generally associated with increased signal intensity in fat suppressed images.

Conclusions: Lesions of the DDFT in the digit appear to be primarily degenerative, and may be a sequel to vascular compromise. Increased signal intensity on fat suppressed MR images is not necessarily associated with frank fluid or evidence of inflammation, but may reflect major matrix changes in the tendon.

Potential relevance: Further information about the causes of these lesions is required to develop preventative strategies.
Distal limb cast sores in horses: Risk factors and early detection using thermography
Authors: Levet T. , Martens A. , Devisscher L. , Duchateau L. , Bogaert L. , Vlaminck L.
Published: December 2008

Reasons for performing study: There is a lack of evidence‐based data on the prevalence, outcome and risk factors of distal limb cast sores, and no objective tool has been described for the early detection of cast sores.

Objectives: To investigate the prevalence, location, outcome and risk factors of cast sores after application of a distal limb cast and to determine whether static thermography of the cast is a valuable tool for the assessment of sores.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted on horses treated with a distal limb cast. At each cast removal, cast sores were graded as superficial sores (SS), deep dermal sores (DS) or full thickness skin ulcerations (FS). In several cases, a thermographic evaluation of the cast was performed immediately prior to removal and differences in temperature (ΔT) between the coolest point of the cast and 2 cast regions predisposed for sore development (dorsoproximal mc/mtIII and palmar/plantar fetlock) were calculated.

Results: Mean ± s.d. total casting time of 70 horses was 31 ± 18 days. Overall, 57 legs (81%) developed at least SS. Twenty‐four legs (34%) ultimately developed DS and one horse had an FS. Multivariable analysis showed that the severity of sores was positively associated with increasing age (OR: 1.111, P = 0.028), a normal (vs. swollen) limb (OR: 3.387, P = 0.023) and an increase in total casting time (OR per week: 1.363, P = 0.002). The thermographic evaluation (35 casts) revealed that the severity of sores was positively associated with increasing ΔT (OR: 2.100, P = 0.0005). The optimal cut‐off values for the presence of SS and DS were set at, respectively, ΔT = 2.3 and 4.3°C.

Conclusion and potential relevance: Distal limb cast is a safe coaptation technique with increasing risk of developing sores with time. Thermography is a valuable and rapid clinical tool to monitor the development of cast sores.
Racing performance after combined prosthetic laryngoplasty and ipsilateral ventriculocordectomy or partial arytenoidectomy: 135 Thoroughbred racehorses competing at less than 2400 m (1997–2007)
Authors: Witte T. H. , Mohammed H. O. , Radcliffe C. H. , Hackett R. P. , Ducharme N. G.
Published: December 2008

Reasons for performing study: The success of combined prosthetic laryngoplasty with ipsilateral ventriculocordectomy (LPVC) has not been compared to that of partial arytenoidectomy (PA) in a clinical population.

Hypotheses: In Thoroughbred (TB) racehorses: 1) earnings after LPVC are unaffected by the severity of recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN) (laryngealgrade IIIvs.grade IV);2) LPVC and PA yield similar results in the treatment ofgrade IIIRLN; 3) performance outcome following PA is independent of diagnosis (RLN vs. unilateral arytenoid chondritis [UAC]); and 4) neither LPVC nor PA returns horses to the level of performance of controls.

Methods: Medical and racing records of 135 TB racehorses undergoing LPVC or PA for the treatment ofgrade IIIorIVRLN or UAC were reviewed. Racing records of age and sex matched controls were also reviewed.

Results: After LPVC, horses withgrade IIIRLN performed better compared to those withgrade IVRLN. Furthermore, horses treated forgrade IIIRLN by LPVC showed post operative earnings comparable to controls. Rate of return to racing were similar for PA and LPVC, although LPVC resulted in higher post operative earnings. Performance after PA was similar regardless of diagnosis (UAC or RLN). Finally, neither LPVC when performed forgrade IVRLN, nor PA performed for either diagnosis restored post operative earnings to control levels.

Conclusions: Thoroughbred racehorses treated by LPVC forgrade IIIRLN show significantly better post operative earnings compared to horses treated forgrade IVdisease. Ingrade IIIRLN, LPVC returns earning potential to control levels. PA and LPVC lead to similar success in terms of rate of return to racing, but PA leads to inferior earnings after surgery.

Potential relevance: Laryngoplasty should be recommended for all TB racehorses withgrade IIIRLN to maximise return to racing at a high level. This contradicts the common approach of waiting for complete paralysis.
A cranial intercondylar arthroscopic approach to the caudal medial femorotibial joint of the horse
Authors: Muurlink T. , Walmsley J. , Young D. , Whitton C.
Published: December 2008

Reason for performing study: Current noninvasive techniques for imaging the soft tissue structures of the stifle have limitations. Arthroscopy is commonly used for the investigation and treatment of stifle pain. Cranial and caudal arthroscopic approaches to the femorotibial joints are used. However, complete examination of the axial aspect of the medial femorotibial joint (MFTJ) is not possible currently.

Objective: To develop a cranial approach to the caudal pouch of the MFTJ and to assess whether it would allow a more complete examination of the compartment and facilitate the caudomedial approach.

Method: The regional anatomy was reviewed and the technique developed on cadavers. A series of nonrecovery surgeries were performed to evaluate the procedure, which was then used in 7 clinical cases. Advantages compared to existing techniques and complications encountered were recorded.

Results: Successful entry into the caudal pouch of the MFTJ was achieved in 20 of 22 cadaver legs, 8 of 8 joints of nonrecovery surgery horses and 6 of 7 clinical cases operated. The caudal ligament of the medial meniscus could be visualised, along with other axial structures of the caudal joint pouch. The technique was used to facilitate a caudomedial approach and allowed better triangulation within the joint space. Complications were minor and included puncture of the caudal joint capsule and scoring of the axial medial femoral condyle.

Conclusions and potential relevance: It is possible to access the caudal pouch of the MFTJ arthroscopically using a cranial intercondylar approach. The technique has advantages when compared to existing techniques and is associated with few significant complications. A cranial approach to the caudal pouch of the MFTJ could complement existing techniques and be useful clinically.
Expression of toll‐like receptor 2 mRNA in bronchial epithelial cells is not induced in RAO‐affected horses
Authors: Berndt A. , Derksen F. J. , Venta P. J. , Karmaus W. , Ewart S. , Yuzbasiyan‐Gurkan V. , Robinson N. E.
Published: December 2008

Reasons for performing study: Airway inflammation in recurrent airway obstruction (RAO) is triggered by housing affected horses in stables. It has been suggested that RAO is an allergic condition, but innate immune mechanisms are also involved. Fungal products activate innate immune mechanisms through toll‐like receptor 2 (TLR2). In human airway epithelium, TLR2 activation leads to interleukin (IL)‐8 production. This pathway is negatively regulated by the zinc finger protein A20. This study was performed to enhance understanding of innate immune mechanisms in RAO.

Hypothesis: TLR2 and IL‐8 mRNA are elevated in RAO during stabling compared with controls. A20 mRNA is negatively associated with the numbers of airway inflammatory cells.

Objectives: To determine TLR2, IL‐8 and A20 mRNA expression in lungs of stabled and pastured RAO‐affected and control horses.

Methods: Airway obstruction and inflammatory cell counts in bronchoalveolar lavage were measured, and TLR2, IL‐8 and A20 mRNA expression quantified by qRT‐PCR in 6 RAO‐affected and 6 control horses, during and after exposure to hay and straw.

Results: Airway obstruction and neutrophils were increased in RAO‐affected horses during stabling. While stabling increased IL‐8, TLR2 and A20 mRNA were unaffected. TLR2 and A20 were significantly correlated (r = 0.83) and A20 mRNA was negatively associated with inflammatory cells.

Potential relevance: Stabling does not lead to an increase in TLR2 expression. Other molecules or processes in the TLR2 cascade might be important in fungal‐induced airway inflammation. Equine epithelial‐derived A20 may be involved in modulation of airway inflammation.
Influenza A viruses with truncated NS1 as modified live virus vaccines: Pilot studies of safety and efficacy in horses
Authors: Chambers T. M. , Quinlivan M. , Sturgill T. , Cullinane A. , Horohov D. W. , Zamarin D. , Arkins S. , García‐Sastre A. , Palese P.
Published: December 2008

Reasons for performing study: Three previously described NS1 mutant equine influenza viruses encoding carboxyterminally truncated NS1 proteins are impaired in their ability to inhibit type I IFN productionin vitroand are replication attenuated, and thus are candidates for use as a modified live influenza virus vaccine in the horse.

Hypothesis: One or more of these mutant viruses is safe when administered to horses, and recipient horses when challenged with wild‐type influenza have reduced physiological and virological correlates of disease.

Methods: Vaccination and challenge studies were done in horses, with measurement of pyrexia, clinical signs, virus shedding and systemic proinflammatory cytokines.

Results: Aerosol or intranasal inoculation of horses with the viruses produced no adverse effects. Seronegative horses inoculated with the NS1‐73 and NS1‐126 viruses, but not the NS1‐99 virus, shed detectable virus and generated significant levels of antibodies. Following challenge with wild‐type influenza, horses vaccinated with NS1‐126 virus did not develop fever (>38.5°C), had significantly fewer clinical signs of illness and significantly reduced quantities of virus excreted for a shorter duration post challenge compared to unvaccinated controls. Mean levels of proinflammatory cytokines IL‐1β and IL‐6 were significantly higher in control animals, and were positively correlated with peak viral shedding and pyrexia on Day +2 post challenge.

Conclusion and clinical relevance: These data suggest that the recombinant NS1 viruses are safe and effective as modified live virus vaccines against equine influenza. This type of reverse genetics‐based vaccine can be easily updated by exchanging viral surface antigens to combat the problem of antigenic drift in influenza viruses.
Phylogenetic relationships among seed plants: Persistent questions and the limits of molecular data
Authors: Mathews Sarah
Published: December 2008

Trees inferred from DNA sequence data provide only limited insight into the phylogeny of seed plants because the living lineages (cycads, Ginkgo, conifers, gnetophytes, and angiosperms) represent fewer than half of the major lineages that have been detected in the fossil record. Nevertheless, phylogenetic trees of living seed plants inferred from sequence data can provide a test of relationships inferred in analyses that include fossils. So far, however, significant uncertainty persists because nucleotide data support several conflicting hypotheses. It is likely that improved sampling of gymnosperm diversity in nucleotide data sets will help alleviate some of the analytical issues encountered in the estimation of seed plant phylogeny, providing a more definitive test of morphological trees. Still, rigorous morphological analyses will be required to answer certain fundamental questions, such as the identity of the angiosperm sister group and the rooting of crown seed plants. Moreover, it will be important to identify approaches for incorporating insights from data that may be accurate but less likely than sequence data to generate results supported by high bootstrap values. How best to weigh evidence and distinguish among hypotheses when some types of data give high support values and others do not remains an important problem.
Bennettitales from the Grisethorpe Bed (Middle Jurassic) at Cayton Bay, Yorkshire, UK
Authors: Crane Peter R. , Herendeen Patrick S.
Published: December 2008

Middle Jurassic fossil plants from the Grisethorpe Bed at Cayton Bay and Grisethorpe Bay, Yorkshire, UK, are preserved in a soft claystone, and plant mesofossils recovered by sieving reveal excellent details of external structure. Studies of these mesofossils complement previous work on macrofossils from the Grisethorpe Bed and allow the plant fossils in this classic flora to be studied in a similar way to those preserved in Cretaceous mesofloras. Bennettitales, a key group in discussions of how angiosperms may be related to other seed plants, are especially well represented among mesofossils from the Grisethorpe Bed. Abundant bennettitalean leaves, scale leaves, and fragments of pollen and ovulate organs provide new information on these extinct plants. In particular, a specimen of Williamsoniella coronata (presumed aborted) shows only weak differentiation between interseminal scales and ovules and provides further evidence of homology between these structures.
Reconstructing the ancestral female gametophyte of angiosperms: Insights from Amborella and other ancient lineages of flowering plants
Authors: Friedman William E. , Ryerson Kirsten C.
Published: December 2008

For more than a century, the common ancestor of flowering plants was thought to have had a seven‐celled, eight‐nucleate Polygonum‐type female gametophyte. It is now evident that not one, but in fact three, patterns of female gametophyte development and mature structure characterize the common ancestors of the four most ancient clades of extant angiosperms: Amborella‐type, Nuphar/Schisandra‐type and Polygonum‐type. The Amborella‐type female gametophyte is restricted to a single extant species, Amborella trichopoda, and at maturity consists of eight cells and nine nuclei. Development of the Amborella‐type gametophyte is essentially identical to the Polygonum‐type except that there is an additional and asynchronous cell division at the micropylar pole prior to maturation that produces a third synergid and the egg cell. The Nuphar/Schisandra‐type female gametophyte is four‐nucleate and four‐celled and at maturity contains a typical three‐celled egg apparatus and a central cell with a single haploid polar nucleus. This type of gametophyte appears to be universal among extant members of the Nymphaeales (including Hydatellaceae) and Austrobaileyales. Based on explicit reconstruction of character distribution and evolution, the Polygonum‐type female gametophyte is certain to be representative of the common ancestors of monocots, eudicots, magnoliids, Ceratophyllaceae, and Chloranthaceae. There are compelling biological reasons to suggest that the four‐celled, four‐nucleate female gametophyte (as found in Nymphaeales and Austrobaileyales) is ancestral among angiosperms, with transitions to Polygonum‐type female gametophytes separately in the Amborellales and in the ancient angiosperm clade that includes all angiosperms except Amborella, Nymphaeales, and Austrobaileyales. Subsequent to the evolution of a seven‐celled, eight‐nucleate Polygonum‐type female gametophyte in the Amborellales, we hypothesize that a peramorphic increase in egg apparatus cell number took place and led to the unique situation in which there are three synergids in Amborella trichopoda.
Different gymnosperm outgroups have (mostly) congruent signal regarding the root of flowering plant phylogeny
Authors: Graham Sean W. , Iles William J. D.
Published: December 2008

We examined multiple plastid genes from a diversity of gymnosperm lineages to explore the consistency of signal among different outgroups for rooting flowering plant phylogeny. For maximum parsimony (MP), most outgroups attach on a branch of the underlying ingroup tree that leads to Amborella. Maximum likelihood (ML) analyses either root angiosperms on a nearby branch or find split support for these neighboring root placements, depending on the outgroup. The inclusion of two species of Hydatellaceae, recently recognized as an ancient line of angiosperms, does not aid in inference of the root. Cost profiles for placing the root in suboptimal locations are highly correlated across most outgroup comparisons, even comparing MP and ML profiles. Those for Gnetales are the most deviant of all those considered. This divergent outgroup either attaches on a long eudicot branch with moderate bootstrap support in MP analyses or supports no particular root location in ML analysis. Removing the most rapidly evolving sites in rate classifications based on two divergent angiosperm root placements with Gnetales yields strongly conflicting root placements in MP analysis, despite substantial overlap in the estimated sets of conservative sites. However, the generally high consistency in rooting signal among distantly related gymnosperm clades suggests that the long branch connecting angiosperms to their extant relatives may not interfere substantially with inference of the angiosperm root.
L'exil du désir ou la difficulté de (se) mettre au monde
Authors: Stitou Rajaa
Published: December 2008

Résumé Après avoir présenté le dispositif d'interlocution dans lequel se déploie sa posture de thérapeute, l'auteur rend compte ici de tout un itinéraire clinique entrepris avec une patiente étrangère, exilée plus de son désir que de son pays, à travers lequel sont analysés les écueils, les mouvements identificatoires et transférentiels. En visant à libérer la parole, ce travail entrepris a constitué le lieu de mise en marche d'un processus de symbolisation qui a ouvert à la patiente la possibilité d'aller au-delà de son obstination à vouloir un enfant à posséder, en questionnant l'énigme posée par le symptôme (infécondité), énigme qui la renvoie à sa propre naissance et aux impasses de la transmission qui l'on conduit à s'exiler de son désir, ainsi que de son histoire. La prise en compte de sa culture n'a pas consisté à l'y réduire, mais à lui donner la possibilité d'y introduire sa voix et sa subjectivité, de trouver sa propre langue qui ne soit pas la langue d'une masse ethnique.
Le cerveau en constante reconstruction : le concept de plasticité cérébrale
Authors: Schiffmann Serge N.
Published: December 2008

Résumé La construction du cerveau repose sur un ensemble de processus incluant la différenciation cellulaire, la migration neuronale, la guidance axonale et l’établissement des connexions neuronales qui sont étroitement déterminés par notre patrimoine génétique. Néanmoins, il est actuellement fermement établi que l’influence de l’expérience individuelle sensorielle et affective mène à de multiples possibilités de remodelage du cerveau. Cette plasticité cérébrale s’observe largement au cours du développement de l’individu mais est un processus également actif tout au long de la vie adulte. L’histoire singulière de chacun d’entre nous façonne dès lors constamment de subtiles modifications structurelles et fonctionnelles de notre système nerveux qui seront le support de la diversité de notre pensée et de nos comportements.
Pensées de matière et matière a pensées
Authors: de Nayer André R.
Published: December 2008

Résumé toute pensée est matière, les messages, les relations avec le monde sont représentés à différents niveaux du système nerveux. La parole psychothérapeutique et les psychotropes dessineraient les connexions synaptiques, formes plastiques et variables, en modulant l’expression génique des neurones (mémoire individuelle) sans toucher au génome (mémoire de l’espèce).
Causalité psychique et traumatisme
Authors: Balestrière Lina
Published: December 2008

Résumé Partant du constat que le traumatisme a acquis ces dernières années une place considérable dans son acception la plus simplifiée, en tant que cause irréfutable s’appuyant sur un déterminisme linéaire, l’auteur déploie la notion freudienne de traumatisme liée à l’effet d’après-coup, en tant que double détermination conjointe du passé sur le présent et du présent sur le passé. Cela permet de préciser que la causalité psychique est liée à un certain type de temporalité d’une part et à un certain fonctionnement de la mémoire, de la trace, d’autre part. L’auteur prolonge ensuite son questionnement en se demandant quelle causalité est en jeu lorsque l’effet d’après-coup n’est pas possible. C’est alors la conception ferenczienne du traumatisme qui est convoquée, ouvrant une réflexion sur la causalité du « non advenu ».
Survivant
Authors: Bool Annette
Published: December 2008

Résumé Être confronté à un événement traumatique peut entraîner un bouleversement considérable dans la vie d’un sujet. Si depuis toujours, la psychanalyse s’est intéressée au traumatisme, l’étude de la névrose a montré que l’origine des symptômes se trouvait dans un conflit psychique de nature inconsciente. Dans la névrose traumatique, les symptômes ne sont pas liés à un conflit inconscient. L’introduction de la notion de réel permet d’aborder l’expérience traumatique comme celui d’une rencontre, d’une « mauvaise rencontre ». L’effraction traumatique ne fait que réactualiser le trauma initial, lié à la première menace, celle de la détresse consécutive à la séparation de l’objet primordial. Tout trauma est donc structuré sur le mode de l’après-coup. Une rencontre de hasard, une mauvaise rencontre, n’est rien d’autre qu’une rencontre du réel. Ce réel qui est la cause même du sujet.
Malaise social et violences d'adolescents
Authors: Morhain Yves , Martineau Jean-Pierre
Published: December 2008

Résumé En cette fin de siècle, les lieux traditionnels de régulation des conflits sont en crise. Les phénomènes de déliaison se multiplient tant chez les adultes que chez les adolescents. La fréquence des passages à l’acte d’adolescents inquiète magistrats, psychologues, travailleurs sociaux... Par son excès, le sujet violent sort des règles ou des interdits qu’imposent les conventions humaines, s’exile de la communauté, la défie du dehors, après avoir transgressé, outrepassé les frontières qui déterminent les normes qu’elle s’est données. On examine la compulsion de répétition qui vient signer l’échec de l’élaboration psychique et les impasses de subjectivation du délinquant « incasable ». Est-il possible de prévenir des gestes destructeurs ? Comment intervenir auprès de ces jeunes en rupture de lien social ? Ne convient-il pas de se situer sur une « Autre-Scène », là où précisément se trouve le sujet en question.
Des effets aux causes dans la construction du cas clinique en psychosomatique
Authors: Boucherat-Hue Valérie
Published: December 2008

Résumé L’histoire de Raphaël permettra d’aborder, d’une part, la délicate question de la construction du cas en psychopathologie, et, d’autre part, les présupposés théoriques qui sous-tendent l’interprétation clinique en psychosomatique. À propos de Raphaël, deux lectures peuvent s’entrecroiser, selon que l’on privilégie la théorie névrotique freudienne ou le modèle de l’École de Psychosomatique de Paris. L’option théorique débouche sur des orientations diagnostiques de nature différente, et concernant Raphaël, la discussion s’engagera entre les avatars d’une organisation névrotique insuffisamment structurée et les particularités d’une organisation prégénitale de type allergique. Dans le champ psychanalytique, la théorie psychosomatique du fonctionnement allergique réhabilite la dynamique des triangulations pré-œdipiennes sans les confondre avec les aménagements œdipiens. À partir du cas Raphaël sera interrogée la valeur structurante de la phobie primaire, de l’objet libidinal au stade rétentif-anal et des préformes de l’identification hystérique.
Démence et vie opératoire
Authors: Péruchon Marion
Published: December 2008

Résumé L’auteur fait ressortir, dans un premier temps, les singularités du langage et de la pensée démentiels parmi lesquelles se trouvent une coupure des liens avec la disparition des représentations de mot et un retour massif au pôle perceptif. Qui plus est, le jugement d’attribution semble mieux préservé que le jugement d’existence qui, lui, se dissout, là où règne la confusion entre l’intérieur et l’extérieur. Toutefois, il existe des démences riches et des démences pauvres ; les premières, malgré la déconfiture mentale, parviendraient à maintenir un certain travail mental à travers, par exemple, les hallucinations mnésiques. Cette analyse conduit, dans un deuxième temps, à comparer le fonctionnement psychique démentiel avec la pensée opératoire (Pierre Marty) – d’où se dégagent deux modèles très différents qui nous amènent à un vaste questionnement sur les interactions psyché-soma au regard du traumatisme et de la régression.
Les logiques de la clinique en pédopsychiatrie
Authors: Flagey Danielle
Published: December 2008

Résumé La compréhension des relations de causalité en pédo-psychiatrie est souvent faussée par la difficulté à maîtriser la complexité de cette clinique. L’auteur relève quelques pièges logiques fréquents qui risquent de compromettre la pertinence des choix thérapeutiques.