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Delayed pneumocephalus developed in a 9‐year‐old dog following transfrontal craniotomy and implantation of an experimental local chemotherapy into a partially resected oligodendroglioma, but the animal appeared to be asymptomatic. MRI evidence of increasing intracranial pressure, including progressive ventricular dilatation and compression of periventricular parenchyma, led to the recommendation for exploratory craniotomy. The barrier between the intracranial cavity and frontal sinus was enhanced, and pneumocephalus resolved on MRI at both 1 and 3 months following the repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate dogs with acute onset of intracranial signs suspected of stroke by primary veterinary clinicians, and establish possible differential diagnoses and long‐term outcome. In addition, serum C‐reactive protein and plasma cytokines were investigated as potential biomarkers of disease. Materials and Methods: All cases were evaluated by neurologic examination, routine haematology and biochemistry and measurement of serum C‐reactive protein, plasma cytokine concentrations (interleukin‐2, ‐6, ‐8, ‐10, tumour necrosis factor) and low‐field MRI. Results: Primary veterinarians contacted the investigators with 85 suspected stroke cases. Only 20 met the inclusion criteria. Of these, two were diagnosed with ischaemic stroke. Other causes were idiopathic vestibular syndrome (n=6), brain tumour (n=5) and inflammatory brain disease (n=2); in five cases a precise diagnosis could not be determined. Median survival times were: brain tumour, 3 days, idiopathic vestibular syndrome, 315 days, ischaemic stroke, 365 days and inflammatory central nervous system (CNS) disease, 468 days. The median plasma concentrations of interleukin‐2, ‐6, ‐8, ‐10 or tumour necrosis factor were not significantly increased in any of the diagnosis groups compared to healthy controls. Serum C‐reactive protein was higher in dogs with brain tumours and inflammatory brain disease but not above the upper bound of the reference interval. Clinical Significance: Dogs that present with acute onset intracranial disease may have ischaemic stroke but are more likely to have other causes. Many dogs with such acute onset of neurological dysfunction (brain tumours excluded) may recover within a couple of weeks despite their initial severe clinical appearance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atmospheric methane grew very rapidly in 2014 (12.7 ± 0.5 ppb/year), 2015 (10.1 ± 0.7 ppb/year), 2016 (7.0 ± 0.7 ppb/year), and 2017 (7.7 ± 0.7 ppb/year), at rates not observed since the 1980s. The increase in the methane burden began in 2007, with the mean global mole fraction in remote surface background air rising from about 1,775 ppb in 2006 to 1,850 ppb in 2017. Simultaneously the 13C/12C isotopic ratio (expressed as δ13CCH4) has shifted, has shifted, now trending negative for more than a decade. The causes of methane's recent mole fraction increase are therefore either a change in the relative proportions (and totals) of emissions from biogenic and thermogenic and pyrogenic sources, especially in the tropics and subtropics, or a decline in the atmospheric sink of methane, or both. Unfortunately, with limited measurement data sets, it is not currently possible to be more definitive. The climate warming impact of the observed methane increase over the past decade, if continued at >5 ppb/year in the coming decades, is sufficient to challenge the Paris Agreement, which requires sharp cuts in the atmospheric methane burden. However, anthropogenic methane emissions are relatively very large and thus offer attractive targets for rapid reduction, which are essential if the Paris Agreement aims are to be attained. Plain Language Summary: The rise in atmospheric methane (CH4), which began in 2007, accelerated in the past 4 years. The growth has been worldwide, especially in the tropics and northern midlatitudes. With the rise has come a shift in the carbon isotope ratio of the methane. The causes of the rise are not fully understood, and may include increased emissions and perhaps a decline in the destruction of methane in the air. Methane's increase since 2007 was not expected in future greenhouse gas scenarios compliant with the targets of the Paris Agreement, and if the increase continues at the same rates it may become very difficult to meet the Paris goals. There is now urgent need to reduce methane emissions, especially from the fossil fuel industry. Key Points: Atmospheric methane is rising; its carbon isotopic ratio has become more depleted in C‐13The possible causes of the change include an increase in emissions, with changing relative proportions of source inputs, or a decline in methane destruction, or bothIf this rise continues, there are significant consequences for the UN Paris Agreement [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, titled "Accidental intraspinal microchip implant in a cat," discusses a case of a 3-month-old female Maine Coon kitten who experienced neurological signs after receiving a microchip implant. The initial signs included difficulty walking and stiffness in all four limbs. The kitten was treated with meloxicam and showed signs of improvement upon a neurological consultation. Radiographs and CT scans revealed a microchip implant in the spinal canal, causing mild spinal cord compression. The kitten was managed conservatively with medication and eventually experienced a favorable recovery with only mild residual ataxia. The article also mentions that cases of spinal cord injury due to incorrect microchip placement have been reported in dogs and cats, with surgical treatment being the usual approach. However, in this case, the risks of surgery were deemed to outweigh the benefits. [Extracted from the article]

Abstract: Seasonal and interannual variability in surface water partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2) and air‐sea CO2 fluxes from a West Spitsbergen fjord (IsA Station, Adventfjorden) are presented, and the associated driving forces are evaluated. Marine CO2 system data together with temperature, salinity, and nutrients, were collected at the IsA Station between March 2015 and June 2017. The surface waters were undersaturated in pCO2 with respect to atmospheric pCO2 all year round. The effects of biological activity (primary production/respiration) followed by thermal forcing on pCO2 were the most important drivers on a seasonal scale. The ocean was a sink for atmospheric CO2 with annual air‐sea CO2 fluxes of −36 ± 2 and −31 ± 2 g C·m−2·year−1 for 2015–2016 and 2016–2017, respectively, as estimated from the month of April. Waters of an Arctic origin dominated in 2015 and were replaced in 2016 by waters of a transformed Atlantic source. The CO2 uptake rates over the period of Arctic origin waters were significantly higher (2 mmol C·m−2·day−1) than the rates of the Atlantic origin waters of the following year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental measurements are presented, devoted to the cross-comparison of two small-size fast neutron detection devices, namely Single-Crystal Diamond diode (SCDD) and Silicon Photodiode (SiPD). Neutron time-of-flight spectra are simultaneously recorded under the same experimental conditions, using an array composed of two SCDDs and two SiPDs placed in the incident beam of the ROTAX beam line at the ISIS spallation neutron source (UK). Experimental spectra are compared to calculated ones, obtained by taking into account material characteristics and the neutron spectrum. The SCDD detector features a higher time resolution with respect to the SiPD, likely related to the different neutron cross-sections and the electronic thresholds set during the measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent evidence suggests that morphological divergence of the American crocodile ( Crocodylus acutus) occurred in Greater Antilles under conditions of prolonged isolation and hybridization with the Cuban crocodile ( C. rhombifer). We investigated morphological diversity in C. acutus in the coastal zone of the Yucatán Peninsula, where isolation and hybridization have also been reported. We compared the relationships among various morphological traits between insular and coastal populations. Our results suggest morphological diversity in the region, which is possibly related to population isolation and mechanical constraints imposed by differences in diet. A broad-snouted morphotype appears typical of island populations. Hybridization could also cause morphological variation, but its importance in this case remains to be confirmed. Sexual dimorphism of the American crocodile in the region appears to be less pronounced than for other crocodilians. We also provide population-specific size estimation models for two populations (Banco Chinchorro and Cozumel) to improve future monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intranasal administration of benzodiazepines has shown superiority over rectal administration for terminating emergency epileptic seizures in human trials. No such clinical trials have been performed in dogs. Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of intranasal midazolam (IN-MDZ), via a mucosal atomization device, as a first-line management option for canine status epilepticus and compare it to rectal administration of diazepam (R-DZP) for controlling status epilepticus before intravenous access is available. Animals: Client-owned dogs with idiopathic or structural epilepsy manifesting status epilepticus within a hospital environment were used. Dogs were randomly allocated to treatment with IN-MDZ (n = 20) or R-DZP (n = 15). Methods: Randomized parallel-group clinical trial. Seizure cessation time and adverse effects were recorded. For each dog, treatment was considered successful if the seizure ceased within 5 minutes and did not recur within 10 minutes after administration. The 95% confidence interval was used to detect the true population of dogs that were successfully treated. The Fisher's 2-tailed exact test was used to compare the 2 groups, and the results were considered statistically significant if P < .05. Results: IN-MDZ and R-DZP terminated status epilepticus in 70% (14/20) and 20% (3/15) of cases, respectively (P = .0059). All dogs showed sedation and ataxia. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: IN-MDZ is a quick, safe and effective first-line medication for controlling status epilepticus in dogs and appears superior to R-DZP. IN-MDZ might be a valuable treatment option when intravenous access is not available and for treatment of status epilepticus in dogs at home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine brain tumours are becoming established as naturally occurring models of disease to advance diagnostic and therapeutic understanding successfully. The size and structure of the dog's brain, histopathology and molecular characteristics of canine brain tumours, as well as the presence of an intact immune system, all support the potential success of this model. The limited success of current therapeutic regimens such as surgery and radiation for dogs with intracranial tumours means that there can be tremendous mutual benefit from collaboration with our human counterparts resulting in the development of new treatments. The similarities and differences between the canine and human diseases are described in this article, emphasizing both the importance and limitations of canines in brain tumour research. Recent clinical veterinary therapeutic trials are also described to demonstrate the areas of research in which canines have already been utilized and to highlight the important potential benefits of translational research to companion dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of small incisions in laparoscopy reduces patient trauma, but also limits the surgeon's ability to view and touch the surgical environment directly. These limitations generally restrict the application of laparoscopy to procedures less complex than those performed during open surgery. Although current robot-assisted laparoscopy improves the surgeon's ability to manipulate and visualize the target organs, the instruments and cameras remain fundamentally constrained by the entry incisions. This limits tool tip orientation and optimal camera placement. The current work focuses on developing a new miniature mobile in vivo adjustable-focus camera robot to provide sole visual feedback to surgeons during laparoscopic surgery. A miniature mobile camera robot was inserted through a trocar into the insufflated abdominal cavity of an anesthetized pig. The mobile robot allowed the surgeon to explore the abdominal cavity remotely and view trocar and tool insertion and placement without entry incision constraints. The surgeon then performed a cholecystectomy using the robot camera alone for visual feedback. This successful trial has demonstrated that miniature in vivo mobile robots can provide surgeons with sufficient visual feedback to perform common procedures while reducing patient trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context The propagation of meningiomas has been linked with several inflammatory interleukins (ILs). Human meningioma cells have been found to synthesise and secrete IL-6, as well as to express IL-8 mRNA. The aim of this study was to determine whether canine intracranial meningiomas express IL-6 and/or IL-8. Main conclusion The limited IL-6 expression and lack of IL-8 expression indicated that IL-6 and IL-8 inhibitors were unlikely to be beneficial for the treatment of canine meningiomas. The limited IL expression may be because of species differences, fewer high-grade tumours or sample size. Approach Nineteen surgically excised formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded canine intracranial meningioma biopsy samples were collected. Immunohistochemical detection of IL-6 and IL-8 was performed by an automated staining system using anti-canine IL-6 and anti-canine IL-8 monoclonal antibodies, respectively. To quantify IL-6 and IL-8, staining of the entire meningioma section was evaluated for percentage of cells positively stained and their staining intensity. The percentage of cells positively stained was recorded as: 0 per cent of cells stained; 1 to 30 per cent of cells stained; 31 to 60 per cent of cells stained; and 61 to 100 per cent of cells stained. Staining intensity was subjectively recorded as: 0, negative expression; 1, weak expression; 2, moderate expression; and 3, marked expression. Results Of the 19 tumour samples, staining for IL-6 expression was positive in five samples and IL-8 expression was positive in zero samples. IL-6 staining in the positive tumour samples was seen as diffusely cytoplasmic. In all five IL-6 positively stained samples, the percentage staining area was greater than 61 per cent; two of the five positive samples had weak staining intensity, while the remaining three positive samples had moderate staining intensity. Interpretation The limited IL-6 expression and lack of IL-8 expression indicates that IL-6 and IL-8 inhibitors are unlikely to be beneficial for the treatment of canine meningiomas. However, it should be noted that a failure to detect an antigen with immunohistochemistry may not be equivalent to a lack of expression. Significance of findings This study showed that the role of ILs in the pathophysiology of canine intracranial meningiomas seems to be limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Observing the Sun at high time and spatial scales is a step toward understanding the finest and fundamental scales of heating events in the solar corona. The high-resolution coronal (Hi-C) instrument has provided the highest spatial and temporal resolution images of the solar corona in the EUV wavelength range to date. Hi-C observed an active region on 2012 July 11 that exhibits several interesting features in the EUV line at 193 Å. One of them is the existence of short, small brightenings “sparkling” at the edge of the active region; we call these EUV bright dots (EBDs). Individual EBDs have a characteristic duration of 25 s with a characteristic length of 680 km. These brightenings are not fully resolved by the SDO/AIA instrument at the same wavelength; however, they can be identified with respect to the Hi-C location of the EBDs. In addition, EBDs are seen in other chromospheric/coronal channels of SDO/AIA, which suggests a temperature between 0.5 and 1.5 MK. Based on their frequency in the Hi-C time series, we define four different categories of EBDs: single peak, double peak, long duration, and bursty. Based on a potential field extrapolation from an SDO/HMI magnetogram, the EBDs appear at the footpoints of large-scale, trans-equatorial coronal loops. The Hi-C observations provide the first evidence of small-scale EUV heating events at the base of these coronal loops, which have a free magnetic energy of the order of 1026 erg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saurochory (seed dispersal by reptiles) among crocodilians has largely been ignored, probably because these reptiles are generally assumed to be obligate carnivores incapable of digesting vegetable proteins and polysaccharides. Herein we review the literature on crocodilian diet, foraging ecology, digestive physiology and movement patterns, and provide additional empirical data from recent dietary studies of Alligator mississippiensis. We found evidence of frugivory in 13 of 18 (72.2%) species for which dietary information was available, indicating this behavior is widespread among the Crocodylia. Thirty-four families and 46 genera of plants were consumed by crocodilians. Fruit types consumed by crocodilians varied widely; over half (52.1%) were fleshy fruits. Some fruits are consumed as gastroliths or ingested incidental to prey capture; however, there is little doubt that on occasion, fruit is deliberately consumed, often in large quantities. Sensory cues involved in crocodilian frugivory are poorly understood, although airborne and waterborne cues as well as surface disturbances seem important. Crocodilians likely accrue nutritional benefits from frugivory and there are no a priori reasons to assume otherwise. Ingested seeds are regurgitated, retained in the stomach for indefinite and often lengthy periods, or passed through the digestive tract and excreted in feces. Chemical and mechanical scarification of seeds probably occurs in the stomach, but what effects these processes have on seed viability remain unknown. Because crocodilians have large territories and undertake lengthy movements, seeds are likely transported well beyond the parent plant before being voided. Little is known about the ultimate fate of seeds ingested by crocodilians; however, deposition sites could prove suitable for seed germination. Although there is no evidence for a crocodilian-specific dispersal syndrome similar to that described for other reptiles, our review strongly suggests that crocodilians function as effective agents of seed dispersal. Crocodilian saurochory offers a fertile ground for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a new mobile environmental reaction chamber for the simulation of the atmospheric aging of different emission sources without limitation from the instruments or facilities available at any single site. Photochemistry is simulated using a set of 40 UV lights (total power 4 KW). Characterisation of the emission spectrum of these lights shows that atmospheric aging of emissions may be simulated over a range of temperatures (-7 to 25 °C). A photolysis rate of NO2, JNO2 , of (8.0±0.7)×10-3 s-1 was determined at 25 °C. We demonstrate the utility of this new system by presenting results on the aging (OH = 12×106 cm-3 h) of emissions from a modern (Euro 5) gasoline car operated during a driving cycle (New European Driving Cycle, NEDC) on a chassis dynamometer in a vehicle test cell. Emissions from the entire NEDC were sampled and aged in the chamber. Total organic aerosol (OA; primary organic aerosol (POA) emission + secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation) was (369.8- 397.5)10-3 g kg-1 fuel, or (13.2-15.4)×10-3 g km-1, after aging, with aged OA/POA in the range 9-15. A thorough investigation of the composition of the gas phase emissions suggests that the observed SOA is from previously unconsidered precursors and processes. This large enhancement in particulate matter mass from gasoline vehicle aerosol emissions due to SOA formation, if it occurs across a wider range of gasoline vehicles, would have significant implications for our understanding of the contribution of on-road gasoline vehicles to ambient aerosols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses several cases involving dogs. It mentions the case of a 10-year-old female German shepherd dog manifesting a six-month history of progressive neck pain and ataxia in all of her four limbs wherein neurological findings reveal consistency with myelopathy. It also cites the case of a 10-year Labrador retriever with two-month history of intermittent lameness of the right pelvic limb. The two cases discuss the diagnosis and management of perineurial cysts among dogs.

The formation of carboxylic acids and dimer esters from -pinene oxidation was investigated in a smog chamber and in ambient aerosol samples collected during the Biosphere Effects on Aerosols and Photochemistry Experiment (BEARPEX). Chamber experiments of -pinene ozonolysis in dry air and at low NOx concentrations demonstrated formation of two dimer esters, pinyl-diaterpenyl (MW 358) and pinonyl-pinyl dimer ester (MW 368), under both lowand high-temperature conditions. Concentration levels of the pinyl-diaterpenyl dimer ester were lower than the assumed first-generation oxidation products cis-pinic and terpenylic acids, but similar to the second-generation oxidation products 3-methyl-1,2,3-butane tricarboxylic acid (MBTCA) and diaterpenylic acid acetate (DTAA). Dimer esters were observed within the first 30 min, indicating rapid production simultaneous to their structural precursors. However, the sampling time resolution precluded conclusive evidence regarding formation from gas- or particle-phase processes. CCN activities of the particles formed in the smog chamber displayed a modest variation during the course of experiments, with k values in the range 0.06-0.09 (derived at a supersaturation of 0.19%). The pinyl-diaterpenyl dimer ester was also observed in ambient aerosol samples collected above a ponderosa pine forest in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California during two seasonally distinct field campaigns in September 2007 and July 2009. The pinonyl-pinyl ester was observed for the first time in ambient air during the 2009 campaign, and although present at much lower concentrations, it was correlated with the abundance of the pinyl-diaterpenyl ester, suggesting similarities in their formation. The maximum concentration of the pinyl-diaterpenyl ester was almost 10 times higher during the warmer 2009 campaign relative to 2007, while the concentration of cis-pinic acid was approximately the same during both periods, and lack of correlation with levels of cis-pinic and terpenylic acids for both campaigns indicate that the formation of the pinyl-diaterpenyl ester was not controlled by their ambient abundance. In 2009 the concentration of the pinyl-diaterpenyl ester was well correlated with the concentration of DTAA, a supposed precursor of diaterpenylic acid, suggesting that the formation of pinyl-diaterpenyl dimer was closely related to DTAA. Generally, the pinyl-diaterpenyl ester was found at higher concentrations under higher temperature conditions, both in the smog-chamber study and in ambient air aerosol samples, and exhibited much higher concentrations at night relative to daytime in line with previous results. We conclude that analysis of pinyl dimer esters provides valuable information on pinene oxidation processes and should be included in studies of formation and photochemical aging of biogenic secondary organic aerosols, especially at high temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To study the evolutionary relationship of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from 13 patients in a large outbreak of isoniazid-resistant tuberculosis in London. Methods Genotypic and phenotypic susceptibility tests were performed. Molecular genotyping using restriction fragment length polymorphisms and mycobacterial interspersed repetitive units was carried out. Additionally, the generation times of 13 strains of M. tuberculosis from the outbreak were measured to determine relative fitness. Results Genotypic and phenotypic susceptibility testing demonstrated variations between isolates. Polymorphisms causing isoniazid resistance varied within clusters of isolates that were indistinguishable by standard genotyping. The measurement of in vitro generation times demonstrated that the fitness of the resistant strains was not significantly different from either wild-type or susceptible isolates in the outbreak, indicating that apparently no fitness cost was associated with the acquisition of drug resistance. Conclusions It appears that this outbreak comprised a heterogeneous collection of closely related strains, which appear to exhibit more variation than would usually be associated with a point source outbreak. These strains appear to have evolved by acquisition of additional antimicrobial resistance mutations while remaining competitive. The acquired resistance and retained competitiveness may be partly responsible for the difficulty in controlling the outbreak. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

We present a new mobile environmental reaction chamber for the simulation of the atmospheric aging of aerosols from different emissions sources without limitation from the instruments or facilities available at any single site. The chamber can be mounted on a trailer for transport to host facilities or for mobile measurements. Photochemistry is simulated using a set of 40 UV lights (total power 4 KW). Characterisation of the emission spectrum of these lights shows that atmospheric photochemistry can be accurately simulated over a range of temperatures from -7-25 °C. A photolysis rate of NO2, JNO2, of (8.0 ± 0.7) x 10-3 molecules cm-3 s-1 was determined at 25 °C. Further, we present the first application of the mobile chamber and demonstrate its utility by quantifying primary organic aerosol (POA) emission and secondary organic aerosol (SOA) production from a Euro 5 light duty gasoline vehicle. Exhaust emissions were sampled during the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), the standard driving cycle for European regulatory purposes, and injected into the chamber. The relative concentrations of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and total hydrocarbon (THC) during the aging of emissions inside the chamber were controlled using an injection system developed as a part of the new mobile chamber set up. Total OA (POA + SOA) emission factors of (370 ± 18) x 10-3 g kg-1 fuel, or (14.6 ± 0.8) x 10-3 g km-1, after aging, were calculated from concentrations measured inside the smog chamber during two experiments. The average SOA/POA ratio for the two experiments was 15.1, a much larger increase than has previously been seen for diesel vehicles, where smog chamber studies have found SOA/POA ratios of 1.3-1.7. Due to this SOA formation, carbonaceous particulate matter (PM) emissions from a gasoline vehicle may approach those of a diesel vehicle of the same class. Furthermore, with the advent of emission controls requiring the use of diesel particle filters, gasoline vehicle emissions could become a far larger source of ambient PM than diesel vehicles. Therefore this large increase in the PM mass of gasoline vehicle aerosol emissions due to SOA formation has significant implications for our understanding of the contribution of on-road vehicles to ambient aerosols and merits further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To evaluate the prevalence of cluster seizures and status epilepticus in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy and determine risk factors for cluster seizure frequency, severity and patient outcome. Methods Retrospective review of medical records of 407 dogs with idiopathic epilepsy was made. Follow-up questionnaires were evaluated in cases with cluster seizures. Results Mean age at diagnosis of idiopathic epilepsy was 4 years. Cluster seizures were documented in 169 (41%) dogs. German shepherds and boxers were significantly (P=0·04 and 0·01, respectively) more likely to suffer from cluster seizures compared to Labrador retrievers. There was no association between the occurrence of status epilepticus and cluster seizures and frequency and severity of cluster seizures and status epilepticus episodes with age or breed. Intact males were twice as likely (P=0·003) than neutered dogs to suffer from cluster seizures. Intact females had significantly (P=0·007) more frequent cluster seizures than neutered dogs. The median survival time for all dogs with cluster seizures was 95 months. Significantly (P=0·03) more dogs with frequent cluster seizures were euthanased because of the cluster seizures. Clinical Significance There was a high prevalence of cluster seizures in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy. Neutering status appears to influence cluster seizure occurrence with intact females more likely to experience more frequent episodes. Euthanasia is associated with frequency of cluster seizure episodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Formation of carboxylic acids and dimer esters from α-pinene oxidation were investigated in a smog chamber and in ambient aerosol samples collected during the Biosphere Effects on Aerosols and Photochemistry Experiment (BEARPEX). Chamber experiments of α-pinene ozonolysis in dry air and at low NOx concentrations demonstrated formation of two dimer esters, pinyl-diaterpenyl (MW 358) and pinonyl-pinyl dimer ester (MW 368), under both low and high temperature conditions. Concentration levels of the pinyl-diaterpenyl dimer ester were lower than the assumed first-generation oxidation products cis-pinic and terpenylic acids, but similar to the second- generation oxidation products 3-methyl-1,2,3-butane tricarboxylic acid (MBTCA) and diaterpenylic acid acetate (DTAA). Dimer esters were observed within the first 30min, indicating rapid production simultaneous to their structural precursors. However, the sampling time resolution precluded conclusive evidence regarding formation from gas- or particle-phase processes. CCN activities of the particles formed in the smog chamber displayed a modest variation during the course of experiments with κ values in the range 0.06-0.09 (derived at a supersaturation of 0.19%). The pinyl-diaterpenyl dimer ester was also observed in ambient aerosol samples collected above a ponderosa pine forest in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California during two seasonally distinct field campaigns in September 2007 and July 2009. The pinonyl-pinyl ester was observed for the first time in ambient air during the 2009 campaign, and although present at much lower concentrations, it was correlated with the abundance of the pinyl-diaterpenyl ester suggesting similarities in their formation. The maximum concentration of the pinyl-diaterpenyl ester was almost 10 times higher during the warmer 2009 campaign relative to 2007, while the concentration of cis-pinic acid was approximately the same during both periods, and lack of correlation with levels of of cis-pinic and terpenylic acids for both campaigns indicate that the formation of the pinyl-diaterpenyl ester was not controlled by their ambient abundance. In 2009, the concentration of the pinyl-diaterpenyl ester was well correlated with the concentration of DTAA, a supposed precursor of diaterpenylic acid, suggesting that the formation of pinyl-diaterpenyl dimer was closely related to DTAA. Generally, the pinyl-diaterpenyl ester was found at higher concentrations under higher temperature conditions both in the smog-chamber study and in ambient air aerosol samples, and exhibited much higher concentrations at night relative to day-time in line with previous results. We conclude that analysis of pinyl dimer esters provides valuable information on pinene oxidation processes and should be included in studies of formation and photochemical aging of biogenic secondary organic aerosols, especially at high temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There is considerable unexplained variation in death rates between deprived areas of Britain. This analysis assesses the degree of variation in socio-demographic factors among deprivation deciles and how variables associated with deaths differ among the most deprived areas. Methods Death rates 1996–2001, Carstairs' 2001 deprivation score and indicators, population density, black and minority ethnic group (BME) and population change 1971–2001 were calculated for 641 parliamentary constituencies in Britain. Constituencies were grouped into Carstairs' deciles. We assessed standard errors of all variables by decile and the relationship between death rates and socio-demographic variables with Pearson's correlations and linear regression by decile and for all constituencies combined. Results Standard errors in death rates and most socio-demographic variables were greatest for the most deprived decile. Death rates among all constituencies were positively correlated with Carstairs' score and indicators, density and BME, but for the most deprived decile, there was no association with Carstairs and a negative correlation with overcrowding, density and BME. For the most deprived decile multivariate models containing population density, BME and change had substantially higher R2. Conclusions Understanding variations in death rates between deprived areas requires greater consideration of their socio-demographic diversity including their population density, ethnicity and migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary prevention often occurs against a background of inequalities in health and health care. Addressing this requires practitioners and systems to acknowledge the contribution of health-related and social determinants and to deal with the lack of interconnectedness between health and social service providers. Recognising this, the Scottish Government has implemented a national programme of anticipatory care targeting individuals aged 45-64 years living in areas of socioeconomic deprivation and at high risk of cardiovascular disease. This programme is called Keep Well.Aim: To explore the issues and tensions underpinning the implementation of a national programme of anticipatory care.Design and Setting: A qualitative study in five Wave 1 Keep Well pilot sites, located in urban areas of Scotland, and involving 79 general practices.Method: Annual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 74 key stakeholders operating at national government level, local pilot level and within general practices, resulting in 118 interviews. Interview transcripts were analysed using the framework approach.Results: Four underlying tensions were identified. First, those between a patient-focused general-practice approach versus a population-level health-improvement approach, linking disparate health and social services; secondly, medical approaches versus wider social approaches; thirdly, a population-wide approach versus individual targeting; and finally, reactive versus anticipatory care.Conclusion: Implementing an anticipatory care programme to address inequalities in cardiovascular disease identified several tensions, which need to be understood and resolved in order to inform the development of such approaches in general practice and to develop systems that reduce the degree of fragmentation across health and social services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study to determine the hydroxyl free radical (OH) concentration using proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry at an environmental chamber. Measuring OH concentration is reportedly difficult as it requires expensive and customized experimental setups. It discusses how the study was conducted which revealed that butanol-d9 is an effective OH tracer.

O bjective: To describe the patterns of enhancement of extradural intervertebral disc on chemically fat saturated gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance images and to investigate the clinical and pathological associations with enhancement. M ethods: Medical records and magnetic resonance images were reviewed from 30 dogs with histopathologically confirmed disc disease and enhancement on a T1-weighted postcontrast fat saturated sequence. R esults: Median duration of neurological signs was 4 days and the most common grade of severity was II, seen in 46·6% of dogs. Homogeneous, heterogeneous and peripheral patterns of disc enhancement were described, with peripheral enhancement most commonly identified (57% of dogs). There were no clinical or pathological differences between the dogs with each of the patterns. The mean signal intensity of a region of interest within the extruded disc material and contrast-to-noise ratio of the disc material were significantly higher on postcontrast T1-weighted fat saturated images (P=<0·0001 each). C linical S ignificance: The use of fat saturated gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging can detect enhancement of extradural disc material. Patterns of enhancement are not associated with the clinical presentation or pathological features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study to determine hydroxyl free radical (OH) concentrations at environmental chambers. The study is based on an indirect method of measuring OH by monitoring an appropriate OH trace by proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS). It suggests the use of a chemical dimension to make the chamber studies more comparable to other atmospheric measurements using an OH clock corresponding to the integrated OH concentration.

We show how a moderating neutron detector can be designed for use as a proxy for devices subject to neutron-induced single-event effects (SEE). Such a detector can have a flat response to high energy neutrons, and can be used to characterize neutron fields for SEE testing and evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An enhanced model of our Imaging Single-Event Effects Monitor (ISEEM) is described with validation against experimental data from irradiation in neutron beams. Quantified discrepancies between simulated and experimental results are close to measurement uncertainties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes cases of breed-specific polymyositis in Hungarian Vizsla dogs. The first case involves a 9-year-old castrated male Vizsla manifesting dysphagia, regurgitation, coughing and vomiting for 3 weeks. The second case involves a 5-year-old castrated male Vizsla manifesting masticatory muscle atrophy, difficulty drinking and lessened physical activity for 2 months. The third case involves a 2-year-old castrated male Vizsla with atrophy of the temporalis and masseter muscles, ptyalism, and dysphagia.

Innocuous organisms able to simulate the properties of pathogens are necessary so that the behaviour of pathogenic microorganisms in the environment may be understood. This is essential if we are to understand the epidemiology and consequence management of airborne infection, whether natural or the result of a deliberate release. The coliphage MS2 has been widely used as a simulant for mammalian viruses, although it bears little structural or biochemical similarity to the agents of interest. The well-characterised bacteriophage phi6 (host Pseudomonas syringae) is closer in size and complexity to pathogenic viruses, notably the Alphavirus Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) because the virion has surface structures and is bounded by a lipid envelope. Here, we show for phi6 that the assay is simple and precise and that the infectivity is stable in buffers and under conditions used for aerobiology experiments, it is retained after aerosolisation and sampling. Finally, phi6 aerosol was generated into a re-circulating wind tunnel where a stable and acceptable level of viability was maintained. Phi6 may prove a useful simulant for VEEV and possibly for other lipid-containing viruses as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have investigated the thermodynamic properties of four aliphatic oxo-dicarboyxlic acids identified or thought to be present in atmospheric particulate matter: oxosuccinic acid, 2-oxoglutaric acid, 3-oxoglutaric acid, and 4-oxopimelic acid. The compounds were characterized in terms of their cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) activity, vapor pressure, density, and tendency to decarboxylate in aqueous solution. We deployed a variety of experimental techniques and instruments: a CCN counter, a Tandem Differential Mobililty Analyzer (TDMA) coupled with a laminar flow-tube, and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS). The presence of the oxo functional group in the α-position causes the vapor pressure of the compounds to diminish by an order of magnitude with respect to the parent dicarboxylic acid, while the CCN activity is similar or increased. Dicarboxylic acids with an oxo-group in the β- position decarboxylate in aqueous solution. We studied the effects of this process on our measurements and findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vector-transmitted microorganisms in the genera Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Rickettsia, Bartonella, and Borrelia are commonly suspected in dogs with meningoencephalomyelitis (MEM), but the prevalence of these pathogens in brain tissue and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of dogs with MEM is unknown. Hypothesis/Objectives: To determine if DNA from these genera is present in brain tissue and CSF of dogs with MEM, including those with meningoencephalitis of unknown etiology (MUE) and histopathologically confirmed cases of granulomatous (GME) and necrotizing meningoencephalomyelitis (NME). Animals: Hundred and nine dogs examined for neurological signs at 3 university referral hospitals. Methods: Brain tissue and CSF were collected prospectively from dogs with neurological disease and evaluated by broadly reactive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Spotted Fever Group Rickettsia, Bartonella, and Borrelia species. Medical records were evaluated retrospectively to identify MEM and control cases. Results: Seventy-five cases of MUE, GME, or NME, including brain tissue from 31 and CSF from 44 cases, were evaluated. Brain tissue from 4 cases and inflammatory CSF from 30 cases with infectious, neoplastic, compressive, vascular, or malformative disease were evaluated as controls. Pathogen nucleic acids were detected in 1 of 109 cases evaluated. Specifically, Bartonella vinsonii subsp. berkhoffii DNA was amplified from 1/6 dogs with histopathologically confirmed GME. Conclusion and Clinical Importance: The results of this investigation suggest that microorganisms in the genera Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Rickettsia, and Borrelia are unlikely to be directly associated with canine MEM in the geographic regions evaluated. The role of Bartonella in the pathogenesis of GME warrants further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have investigated the thermodynamic properties of four aliphatic oxo-dicarboyxlic acids identified or thought to be present in atmospheric particulate matter: oxosuccinic acid, 2-oxoglutaric acid, 3-oxoglutaric acid, and 4-oxopimelic acid. The compounds were characterized in terms of their cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) activity, vapor pressure, density, and tendency to decarboxylate in aqueous solution. We deployed a variety of experimental techniques and instruments: a CCN counter, a Tandem Differential Mobililty Analyzer (TDMA) coupled with a laminar flow-tube, and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS). The presence of the oxo functional group in the α-position causes the vapor pressure of the compounds to diminish by an order of magnitude with respect to the parent dicarboxylic acid, while the CCN activity is similar or increased. Dicarboxylic acids with an oxo-group in the β-position were found to decarboxylate in aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes two cases of dogs diagnosed with lymphoma-associated polymyositis. The postmortem examination of a 3-year-old castrated male pit bull terrier reveals multicentric lymphoma involving the lung, brain, skeletal muscle, a cervical lymph node and spleen. The dog was also diagnosed with infectious myositis, immune-mediated polymyositis (PM) and paraneoplastic inflammatory myopathy. Endomysial and myofiber atrophy were diagnosed in the second dog, a 7-year-old castrated male Labrador retriever.

Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a correlate to physical examination in various myelopathies and a predictor of functional outcome. Objectives: To describe associations among MRI features, neurological dysfunction before MRI, and functional outcome in dogs with disk herniation. Animals: One hundred and fifty-nine dogs with acute thoracolumbar disk herniation. Methods: Retrospective case series. Signalment, initial neurological function as assessed by a modified Frankel score (MFS), and ambulatory outcome at hospital discharge and >3 months (long-term) follow-up were recorded from medical records and telephone interview of owners. Associations were estimated between these parameters and MRI signal and morphometric data. Results: Dogs with intramedullary T2W hyperintensity had more severe pre-MRI MFS (median 2, range 0–4) and lower ambulatory proportion at long-term follow-up (0.76) than those dogs lacking hyperintensity (median MFS 3, range 0–5; ambulatory proportion, 0.93) ( P=.001 and .013, respectively). Each unit of T2W length ratio was associated with a 1.9 times lower odds of long-term ambulation when adjusted for pre-MRI MFS (95% confidence interval 1.0–3.52, P=.05). Dogs with a compressive length ratio >1.31 (which was the median ratio within this population) had more severe pre-MRI MFS (median 3, range 0–5) compared with those with ratios ≤1.31 (median MFS 3, range 0–4; P=.006). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: MRI features were associated with initial injury severity in dogs with thoracolumbar disk herniation. Based on results of this study, the T2W length ratio and presence of T2W intramedullary hyperintensity appear to be predictive of long-term ambulatory status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe an in-situ fast neutron dosimetry system using silicon photodiodes, and discuss its application to accelerated testing for single-event effects (SEEs). Experimental data and theoretical analyses are presented and concept feasibility demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study which analyzes the cases of degenerative myelopathy (DM) in Boxer dogs, German Shepherd Dog, and Pembroke Welsh Corgi. It states that DM is a slowly progressive idiopathic neurodegenerative disorder affecting the spinal cord of dogs from middle to old age. Neuropathologic findings show several lesions that comprises myelin vacuolation, myelophagocytosis and reactive astrocytosis in lateral and ventral funiculi of boxer breeds.

Objectives: To describe the clinical and magnetic resonance imaging features of cervical vertebral malformation-malarticulation in Bernese mountain dogs. Methods: Seven Bernese mountain dogs (four males and three females) were diagnosed with cervical vertebral malformation-malarticulation by magnetic resonance imaging. The following data were evaluated retrospectively: (1) abnormalities of the cervical vertebral column and spinal cord, (2) spinal cord compression, (3) intervertebral disc degeneration and herniation, (4) severity of clinical signs pretreatment and after treatment, (5) type of treatment and (6) outcome. Results: Spin echo T1-weighted and T2-weighted images disclosed multi-level, extradural compressive spinal cord lesions (ventral, dorsolateral or both) spanning from intervertebral disc spaces C3-4 to C6-7. In all seven dogs, T2-weighted images disclosed one or more intramedullary hyperintensities associated with extradural spinal cord compression. Surgery was performed in five dogs. Two dogs were managed medically. The prognosis for surgical or conservative management in Bernese mountain dogs was similar to cervical vertebral malformation-malarticulation in other breeds. Clinical Significance: Cervical vertebral malformation-malarticulation is an important differential diagnosis for young to middle-aged Bernese mountain dogs with a C1-5 or C6-T2 neuroanatomic localisation. Dorsolateral spinal cord compression associated with articular process hypertrophy was the most common feature of cervical vertebral malformation-malarticulation in the seven Bernese mountain dogs evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tumor proliferation in human intracranial meningiomas can be defined by the reactivity of the monoclonal antibody MIB-1 to the Ki-67 antigen. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a pro-angiogenic factor, is a predictive marker for survival of dogs with intracranial meningiomas. Hypothesis: Ki-67 is expressed in canine intracranial meningiomas and is associated with VEGF expression. Ki-67 expression is a prognostic marker for patient outcome. Animals: Seventy client-owned dogs with WHO grade I intracranial meningiomas. Methods: Retrospective study assessing the degree of immunostaining for Ki-67 by MIB-1 and VEGF expression in intracranial meningioma tissue from dogs. MIB-1 Labeling Index (LI) was calculated with Image J NIH-software. Extent, intensity, and distribution of VEGF-expression was assessed semiquantitatively. Cross tabulations with Fisher's exact tests and nonparametric Spearman's rank correlations were performed to identify associations between VEGF expression and MIB-1 LI. Fifteen dogs underwent postsurgical radiotherapy and were included in survival analysis. The effect of MIB-1 LI on survival was examined by Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression procedures. Results: Ki-67 staining was positive in 91% (64/70) and VEGF expression was detected in 96% (67/70). There was no significant association between VEGF expression and MIB-1 LI. MIB-1 LI was not associated with survival. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: MIB-1 antibody can be used to document cell proliferation in intracranial meningiomas in dogs, but does not predict outcome. No association between VEGF as a marker of angiogenesis and tumor proliferation was found. Angiogenesis might be a more important predictor of meningioma activity in dogs than is Ki-67. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To identify plausible mechanisms by which resilience (low mortality rates despite persistent economic adversity) was achieved in some areas in Britain between 1971 and 2001. Methods: Mixed method observational study, combining quantitative analyses of cause- and age group-specific mortality rates, and area sociodemographic and environmental characteristics, with case studies of resilient areas which included in-depth interviews. Results: The causes of death, and age groups, contributing most to resilience varied markedly between the 18 resilient areas; as disease aetiology varies, a range of protective processes must be in operation. Four area characteristics, which plausibly contributed to resilience, emerged from the in-depth interviews: population composition; retaining or attracting population; environment and housing; and social cohesion. Quantitative analyses demonstrated significant difference between resilient and non-resilient areas in retaining or attracting population only. Conclusions: While we identified plausible area characteristics through which resilience was achieved, there does not appear to be a definitive set that reliably produces resilience, and resilient and non-resilient areas did not differ significantly in their possession of most of these characteristics. If such characteristics do have a role in creating resilience, but are present in both resilient and non-resilient areas, further work is needed to explore what makes them "successful" in some areas, but not in others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the effect of a publicly funded domestic heating programme on self-reported health. Design, setting and participants: A prospective controlled study of 1281 households in Scotland receiving new central heating under a publicly funded initiative, and 1084 comparison households not receiving new heating. The main outcome measures were self-reported diagnosis of asthma, bronchitis, eczema, nasal allergy, heart disease, circulatory problems or high blood pressure; number of primary care encounters and hospital contacts in the past year; and SF-36 Health Survey scores. Results: Usable data were obtained from 61.4% of 3849 respondents originally recruited. Heating recipients reported higher scores on the SF-36 Physical Functioning scale (difference 2.51; 95% Cl 0.67 to 4.37) and General Health scale (difference 2.57; 95% Cl 0.90 to 4.34). They were less likely to report having received a first diagnosis of heart disease (OR 0.69; 95% Cl 0.52 to 0.91) or high blood pressure (OR 0.77; 95% Cl 0.61 to 0.97), but the groups did not differ significantly in use of primary care or hospital services. Conclusions: Provision of central heating was associated with significant positive effects on general health and physical functioning; however, effect sizes were small. Evidence of a reduced risk of first diagnosis with heart disease or high blood pressure must be interpreted with caution, due to the self-reported nature of the outcomes, the limited time period and the failure to detect any difference in health service use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]