This project was supported by Grant Numbers HL96593 from NIH and D56HP20783 from HRSA/ HHS. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the NIH or HRSA / HHS.

注：キャピラリーの画像を取得するための取得プロセスは、以前に公開されていると、対応する画像取得と解析コンピュータプログラムでデジタルスチルカメラを用いて達成される11 21この実験室分析のために静止画像を利用していないビデオ、分析のための画像取得を単純化します。以下は、画像から毛細血管を定量するための新しい技術が記載されています。 1.画像強調処理<ol><li>モノクロデジタルカメラとデジタル画像を取得します。このようなカメラで支配者として知られている長さの物体を撮影することにより、既知の大きさの物体に画像を調整します。このプロセスは、正確に測定し、処理後の毛細血管を計数するためのコンピュータプログラムを可能にします。理想的には最高の精度のために、レチクル（それにエッチング定規とガラスの科学的に製造された作品）を使用する必要があります。 1mm角の画素数を測定しますコンピュータプログラムを使用してボックス。 注：このプロトコルの再現性と標準化の鍵となるのは、主にカウントさ1ミリメートル2ボックスの適切な配置に依存しています。 </li><li>毛細血管を暗くし、毛細血管の可視化を最大化する背景を、軽減するコントラスト強調ツールを使用してください。背景からの毛細血管の初期分化は、後工程での画像の適切なトリミングのために重要です。使用して画像を調整することでこれを行ってくださいにこのクリックを行うには「最適ヒストグラムを。」：キャプチャ、強度、画像ヒストグラム、ベストフィット。 </li><li>新しいイメージとしてキャピラリーカウント用の関心領域（ROI）をトリミング（、関心領域を選択します）。 1ミリメートルに等しい530ピクセルで画像を較正することによって決定された1ミリメートル2ボックスを使用してください。トリミングされた画像は、画像の一番上に毛細血管ループの頂点を配置していることを確認してください。 </li><li>したがって、すべての将来像の調整が均等に適用される画像を平らに画像。で、この表示することができません：、プロセスタブ、2Dフィルタを平らに、「明るい、 &quot;オブジェクトの幅のBG強度が「75」適用します。 </li><li>毛細血管を最大限に可視化されるように画像のコントラストを上げます。これを行うには、クリック：75にコントラストを上げ、タブ、ディスプレイを調整します。 </li><li>プロセス]タブ、2Dフィルタ、スペックル除去、カーネルサイズ7×7をクリックすることにより毛細血管の縁を滑らかに画像をスペックル除去、適用されます。 </li><li>毛細血管が黒で、背景が白になるように画像のコントラストを確定。 「ベストフィット」モデルにヒストグラムを調整することによって、この手順を実行します。 注：処理された画像は、次の手順を実行してどのように見えるかの例については、代表的な結果では、図2を参照してください。 </li></ol>キャピラリーカウント/定量毛細血管密度の実行2. <ol><li>各画像には、手動で「対象オブジェクト」featurを使用して、明確に定義された毛細血管の一部を選択eはプログラムによってカウントされるオブジェクトとして認識されます。そして、カウントアルゴリズムによって無視される必要がある領域を基準として、「バックグラウンド」機能を使用して、背景の小さな部分を選択します。 注：これらのハイライトの組み合わせは、バックグラウンドノイズを無視して、すべての毛細血管が強調表示されます。定量（カウント）プロトコルは、色や形態学に基づいて画像の一部を区別するためにコンピュータ機能を利用します。 </li><li>瞬時に撮像装置を用いて画像内のすべての毛細血管をカウントするカウント機能を使用してください。キャピラリとしてバックグラウンドノイズをカウントしないようにするために5ピクセルのカウントオブジェクトの最小直径を設定します。 </li><li>より信頼性の高い評価を得るために、4つの画像 - 各個人のために、3の平均を数えます。 注：画像は、カウンティング手順の間にどのように見えるかの例については、代表的な結果では図3を参照してください。 </li></ol&gt; 3.作成して画像処理を自動化するマクロの使用注：時間を節約するために、マクロを自動的に一つ又は多数の画像上のプロセスの特定のシーケンスを実行するために作成することができます。これらの配列は、画像の修正を迅速にするためにカスタマイズすることができます。本質的には、これらのマクロは、画像を処理する方法を覚えて、迅速かつユーザー入力ですべての手順を実行します。マクロのない絵あたり約8分とは対照的に、12キャピラリー画像にカウントを実行すると、マクロ（画像ごとに2〜3分）で20〜30分の間、このラボを取ります。したがって、マクロを使用すると、手動で各個々の画像を処理するよりも3〜5倍、より効率的です。 <ol><li>マクロを作成するためには、「マクロの記録」を選択し、一つの画像の上に、上記の手順1と2で説明したようにステップとプロセスは、希望する実行します。今後の参考のために実行された画像処理の手順に基づいて、マクロに名前を付けます。ときUSIを将来の絵のマクロngを、単に「実行マクロ」をクリックして、プログラムが自動的に所望の画像（複数可）に記録された拡張機能が適用されます。 注：このラボでは、数秒のメソッドの第1のステップの一つが、すべてを実行するマクロを使用しています。ユーザー入力を必要とする唯一のステップは、どこで画像をトリミングするために、ステップ1.2を選んでいます。 </li></ol>

<ol>
	<li>Gronenschild, E. H., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Semi-automatic+assessment+of+skin+capillary+density:+proof+of+principle+and+validation.">Semi-automatic assessment of skin capillary density: proof of principle and validation.</a> Microvasc Res. 90, 192-198 (2013).</li><li>Allen, J., Howell, K. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Microvascular+imaging:+techniques+and+opportunities+for+clinical+physiological+measurements.">Microvascular imaging: techniques and opportunities for clinical physiological measurements.</a> Physiol Meas. 35, R91-R141 (2014).</li><li>Boettcher, M., Gloe, T., de Wit, C. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Semiautomatic+quantification+of+angiogenesis.">Semiautomatic quantification of angiogenesis.</a> J Surg Res. 162, 132-139 (2010).</li><li>Wild, R., Ramakrishnan, S., Sedgewick, J., Griffioen, A. W. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Quantitative+assessment+of+angiogenesis+and+tumor+vessel+architecture+by+computer-assisted+digital+image+analysis:+effects+of+VEGF-toxin+conjugate+on+tumor+microvessel+density.">Quantitative assessment of angiogenesis and tumor vessel architecture by computer-assisted digital image analysis: effects of VEGF-toxin conjugate on tumor microvessel density.</a> Microvasc Res. 59, 368-376 (2000).</li><li>Tresadern, P. A., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Simulating+nailfold+capillaroscopy+sequences+to+evaluate+algorithms+for+blood+flow+estimation.">Simulating nailfold capillaroscopy sequences to evaluate algorithms for blood flow estimation.</a> Conf Proc IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc. , 2636-2639 (2013).</li><li>Anderson, M. E., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Computerized+nailfold+video+capillaroscopy--a+new+tool+for+assessment+of+Raynaud's+phenomenon.">Computerized nailfold video capillaroscopy--a new tool for assessment of Raynaud's phenomenon.</a> J Rheumatol. 32, 841-848 (2005).</li><li>Neubauer-Geryk, J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Decreased+reactivity+of+skin+microcirculation+in+response+to+L-arginine+in+later-onset+type+1+diabetes.">Decreased reactivity of skin microcirculation in response to L-arginine in later-onset type 1 diabetes.</a> Diabetes Care. 36, 950-956 (2013).</li><li>Pazos-Moura, C. C., Moura, E. G., Bouskela, E., Torres-Filho, I. P., Breitenbach, M. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Nailfold+capillaroscopy+in+diabetes+mellitus:+morphological+abnormalities+and+relationship+with+microangiopathy.">Nailfold capillaroscopy in diabetes mellitus: morphological abnormalities and relationship with microangiopathy.</a> Braz J Med Biol Res. 20, 777-780 (1987).</li><li>Antonios, T. F., Singer, D. R., Markandu, N. D., Mortimer, P. S., MacGregor, G. A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Structural+skin+capillary+rarefaction+in+essential+hypertension.">Structural skin capillary rarefaction in essential hypertension.</a> Hypertension. 33, 998-1001 (1999).</li><li>Kaiser, S. E., Sanjuliani, A. F., Estato, V., Gomes, M. B., Tibirica, E. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Antihypertensive+treatment+improves+microvascular+rarefaction+and+reactivity+in+low-risk+hypertensive+individuals.">Antihypertensive treatment improves microvascular rarefaction and reactivity in low-risk hypertensive individuals.</a> Microcirculation. 20, 703-716 (2013).</li><li>Cheng, C., Diamond, J. J., Falkner, B. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Functional+capillary+rarefaction+in+mild+blood+pressure+elevation.">Functional capillary rarefaction in mild blood pressure elevation.</a> Clinical and Translational Science. 1, 75-79 (2008).</li><li>Debbabi, H., Bonnin, P., Levy, B. I. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Effects+of+blood+pressure+control+with+perindopril/indapamide+on+the+microcirculation+in+hypertensive+patients.">Effects of blood pressure control with perindopril/indapamide on the microcirculation in hypertensive patients.</a> Am J Hypertens. 23, 1136-1143 (2010).</li><li>He, F. J., Marciniak, M., Markandu, N. D., Antonios, T. F., MacGregor, G. A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Effect+of+modest+salt+reduction+on+skin+capillary+rarefaction+in+white,+black,+and+Asian+individuals+with+mild+hypertension.">Effect of modest salt reduction on skin capillary rarefaction in white, black, and Asian individuals with mild hypertension.</a> Hypertension. 56, 253-259 (2010).</li><li>Murray, A. K., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+influence+of+measurement+location+on+reliability+of+quantitative+nailfold+videocapillaroscopy+in+patients+with+SSc.">The influence of measurement location on reliability of quantitative nailfold videocapillaroscopy in patients with SSc.</a> Rheumatology (Oxford). 51, 1323-1330 (2012).</li><li>Ingegnoli, F., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Feasibility+of+different+capillaroscopic+measures+for+identifying+nailfold+microvascular+alterations.">Feasibility of different capillaroscopic measures for identifying nailfold microvascular alterations.</a> Semin Arthritis Rheum. 38, 289-295 (2009).</li><li>Debbabi, H., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Increased+skin+capillary+density+in+treated+essential+hypertensive+patients.">Increased skin capillary density in treated essential hypertensive patients.</a> Am J Hypertens. 19, 477-483 (2006).</li><li>Serne, E. H., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Impaired+skin+capillary+recruitment+in+essential+hypertension+is+caused+by+both+functional+and+structural+capillary+rarefaction.">Impaired skin capillary recruitment in essential hypertension is caused by both functional and structural capillary rarefaction.</a> Hypertension. 38, 238-242 (2001).</li><li>Shore, A. C. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Capillaroscopy+and+the+measurement+of+capillary+pressure.">Capillaroscopy and the measurement of capillary pressure.</a> Br J Clin Pharmacol. 50, 501-513 (2000).</li><li>Rieder, M. J., O'Drobinak, D. M., Greene, A. S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+computerized+method+for+determination+of+microvascular+density.">A computerized method for determination of microvascular density.</a> Microvasc Res. 49, 180-189 (1995).</li><li>Vermeulen, P. B., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Quantification+of+angiogenesis+in+solid+human+tumours:+an+international+consensus+on+the+methodology+and+criteria+of+evaluation.">Quantification of angiogenesis in solid human tumours: an international consensus on the methodology and criteria of evaluation.</a> Eur J Cancer. 32A, 2474-2484 (1996).</li><li>Cheng, C., Daskalakis, C., Falkner, B. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Non-invasive+Assessment+of+Microvascular+and+Endothelial+Function.">Non-invasive Assessment of Microvascular and Endothelial Function.</a> Journal of Visualized Experiments. , (2012).</li><li>Antonios, T. F., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Maximization+of+skin+capillaries+during+intravital+video-microscopy+in+essential+hypertension:+comparison+between+venous+congestion,+reactive+hyperaemia+and+core+heat+load+tests.">Maximization of skin capillaries during intravital video-microscopy in essential hypertension: comparison between venous congestion, reactive hyperaemia and core heat load tests.</a> Clin Sci (Lond). 97, 523-528 (1999).</li></ol>

The authors have no conflicts of interest.

Nailfold capillaroscopyは、様々な腫瘍学、心臓血管、およびリウマチ疾患の用途のために、将来的に臨床的に有用なツールとして有望です。画像取得プロセスは、研究者の間でかなり一貫性のある、まだ画像処理及び分析のための多数の方法が現在存在します。メソッドは、現在のコンピュータと手動キャピラリー数が含まれています。彼らは時間がかかり、ユーザの主観と疲労にさらされるよ?...

微小血管イメージングは、多くの潜在的な臨床用途に急速に成長している分野である。2例えば、癌専門医は、可能な治療の選択肢への腫瘍と洞察力の状態に関する貴重な情報が得られる、腫瘍血管新生の程度を決定するために微小血管イメージングを使用しています。3 4しかし、 nailfoldのcapillaroscopyは、おそらく微小血管イメージングの最もコスト効率的で広く適用可能な形態です。研究者らは、血流量を研究し、毛細血管の形態を調査するために、ビデオnailfoldのcapillaroscopyを使用しています。5 6両方のビデオと静止画nailfoldのcapillaroscopyをレイノー現象や、全身性硬化症などの様々な結合組織疾患の診断と治療の世話をするために補助剤です。2 Nailfold capillaroscopyは、同様に、様々な潜在的な心血管系の用途を有します。 nailfold capillaroscopyを使用して現在の研究は示唆していますその糖尿病1型および2型の患者が異常な毛細管形態の有病率が高いを示し、まだ非糖尿病個体と比較して変わらない毛細血管密度を有する。7-8 Capillaroscopyも高血圧で実験的に研究されてきました。減少毛細血管密度につながる構造毛細管希薄非高血圧個体と比較して、高血圧の個体において実証されている。9-10これらの古い高血圧患者とは対照的に、構造的な希薄化を示し、より最近の研究はことを示した（40および上記の平均年齢）若い高血圧患者は（40歳未満の平均年齢）構造的希薄化することなく、機能的な希薄化を持っている。11これは、機能的な希薄化を前に発生し、構造的な希薄化に時間をかけて進行し得ることを示唆しています。 興味深いことに、このようなペリンドプリル/インダパミドなどの特定の降圧薬で処置された高血圧患者はノルムを表示しましたアル毛細血管密度および治療 ​​後内皮機能、ACE（アンジオテンシン変換酵素）阻害剤または利尿剤で処置したものは、同程度の血圧制御にもかかわらず、低毛細血管密度を維持しながら12は、これは、いくつかの降圧薬は、毛細管を逆にすることによって毛細血管密度を正規化することを示唆しています高血圧によって生じる希薄化。また、他の研究者は、食塩摂取量の減少は高血圧の個体の両方の機能的および構造的な毛細管希薄の逆転につながることが示されている。13 この技術の様々な潜在的な臨床応用にもかかわらず、ほとんどの標準化は、毛細血管密度画像を定量するための技術であります。2日に、研究者は毛細血管密度の結果のみが正確な場合、イントラオブザーバーと観察者間の両方の観点から、再現性があることを発見しました同じ領域が毎回カウントされている。1,14 15 </sup&gt;注目すべきは、以前の研究者は、主に遅く、主観的なプロセスである裸眼、9 16 17 18を使用して手動でキャピラリーカウントを行いました。 毛細血管画像の定量のための標準化された、コンピュータベースのアルゴリズムは、理論的にcapillaroscopyの臨床応用を促進する、より少ない主観で、より効率的かつ再現可能なデータ分析を提供しています。一部の研究者は、確かにnailfold capillaroscopic写真からデータを定量するために、コンピュータベースのプログラムを使用していた。1,6 19 20しかし、現在までの唯一の出版物は、capillaroscopyデータを定量化するために利用可能な複雑なソフトウェアプログラムの信頼性を説明し1、このプログラムは次のように複雑です以前にまったく同じ視野をカウントするための要件によって上記の。ここでは、することが可能標準化されたアルゴリズムを使用して、毛細血管を定量するための簡単​​な、信頼性の高いプロトコルを提示複数の視覚的なフィールドの使用。複数の視野を使用すると、手続きを簡素化するだけでなく、毛細血管数の正常な生物学的変化の評価を可能にするだけでなく。 本研究の目的は、毛細管定量プロセスを標準化し、再現性、効率的なコンピュータベースのアルゴリズムを記述することです。これらの方法は完全に自動化されていないが、彼らは非常に少ないユーザー入力を必要とし、絵の迅速かつ信頼性の高い定量を提供します。

<table>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td class="xl65">Image-Pro Premier</td>
			<td class="xl65">Media Cybernetics, Inc</td>
			<td align="right" class="xl63">9.1</td>
			<td class="xl63">Image processing software</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

a reproducible computerized method for quantitation of capillary density using nailfold capillaroscopy

Capillaroscopyは、効率的で、直接微小循環を可視化するための方法論を学ぶために、比較的安価で容易な非侵襲的です。 capillaroscopy技術は、潜在的に価値のある皮膚科、眼科、リウマチおよび心血管臨床のさまざまなアプリケーションにつながる、患者の微小血管の健康への洞察を提供することができます。さらに、腫瘍増殖は、腫瘍内微小血管密度を測定することによって定量することができる血管形成に依存してもよいです。しかし、技術の無い標準化に現在ほとんどありませんし、現在まで唯一の出版物はcapillaroscopyデータを定量するための現在利用可能な、複雑なコンピュータベースのアルゴリズムの信頼性を報告します。1本論文では、アルゴリズムをカウント新しい、より簡単な、信頼性の高い、標準化された毛細血管を説明nailfold capillaroscopyデータを定量します。このような単純な、再現性のあるコンピュータ化されたcapillaroscopyアルゴリズムは、より多くのを容易にするであろう研究者や臨床医の間で技術の普及。多くの研究者は、現在の結果のユーザ疲労や主観を促進し、手でcapillaroscopy画像を解析。本稿では、再現性、半自動計数アルゴリズムに加えて新たな、簡単に使用できる自動化された画像処理アルゴリズムを説明します。このアルゴリズムは、主観を削減しながら、数分で画像の解析を可能にします。トレーニング時間の最小量は、（我々の経験では、1時間未満）が技術を習得するために必要とされます。

この画像処理手順の目的は、それらが正確に定量することができるように、背景画像から毛細血管を区別することです。不完全な画像処理や過度の画像処理の両方が毛細血管を定量化するためのプログラムの機能に有害です。 図3に見られるように、不完全な画像処理は、バックグラウンドから区別する毛細血管を困難にします。これは、ユーザーが、上記のカウント方法が正確...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about A Reproducible Computerized Method for Quantitation of Capillary Density using Nailfold Capillaroscopy at JoVE.com

A Reproducible Computerized Method for Quantitation of Capillary Density using Nailfold Capillaroscopy

Capillaroscopy is a non-invasive, efficient, relatively inexpensive and easy-to-learn methodology for directly visualizing capillaries in the microcirculation. However, only one publication to date describes the reliability of a complex software program available for quantitating capillaroscopy data. Here, we present a simple, reliable protocol for quantitating capillaries using a standardized algorithm.

Nailfold Capillaroscopyを使用して、毛細血管密度の定量のための再現性のコンピュータ化された方法

Capillaroscopy is a non-invasive, efficient, relatively inexpensive and easy to learn methodology for directly visualizing the microcirculation. The ...

a-reproducible-computerized-method-for-quantitation-capillary-density

Research

JoVE Journal

Medicine

8.9K ビュー.  Thomas Jefferson University. Capillaroscopy is a non-invasive, efficient, relatively inexpensive and easy-to-learn methodology for directly visualizing capillaries in the microcirculation. However, only one publication to date describes the reliability of a complex software program available for quantitating capillaroscopy data. Here, we present a simple, reliable protocol for quantitating capillaries using a standardized algorithm. 

ビデオ: A Reproducible Computerized Method for Quantitation of Capillary Density using Nailfold Capillaroscopy

Photothrombotic Ischemia: A Minimally Invasive and Reproducible Photochemical Cortical Lesion Model for Mouse Stroke Studies

The photothrombotic stroke model aims to induce an ischemic damage within a given cortical area by means of photo-activation of a previously injected light-sensitive dye. Following illumination, the dye is activated and produces singlet oxygen that damages components of endothelial cell membranes, with subsequent platelet aggregation and thrombi formation, which eventually determines the interruption of local blood flow. This approach, initially proposed by Rosenblum and El-Sabban in 1977, was later improved by Watson in 1985 in rat brain and set the basis of the current model. Also, the increased availability of transgenic mouse lines further contributed to raise the interest on the photothrombosis model. Briefly, a photosensitive dye (Rose Bengal) is injected intraperitoneally and enters the blood stream. When illuminated by a cold light source, the dye becomes activated and induces endothelial damage with platelet activation and thrombosis, resulting in local blood flow interruption. The light source can be applied on the intact skull with no need of craniotomy, which allows targeting of any cortical area of interest in a reproducible and non-invasive way. The mouse is then sutured and allowed to wake up. The evaluation of ischemic damage can be quickly accomplished by triphenyl-tetrazolium chloride or cresyl violet staining. This technique produces infarction of small size and well-delimited boundaries, which is highly advantageous for precise cell characterization or functional studies. Furthermore, it is particularly suitable for studying cellular and molecular responses underlying brain plasticity in transgenic mice.

Photothrombosis is a quick, minimally-invasive technique for inducing small and well-delimited infarction in areas of interest in highly reproducible manner. It is particularly suitable for studying cellular and molecular responses underlying brain plasticity in transgenic mice.

Photothrombotic虚：マウス脳卒中研究のための低侵襲かつ再現性の光化学皮質病変モデル

The photothrombotic stroke model aims to induce an ischemic damage within a given cortical area by means of photo-activation of a previously injected ...

医学

Generation and 3-Dimensional Quantitation of Arterial Lesions in Mice Using Optical Projection Tomography

The generation and analysis of vascular lesions in appropriate animal models is a cornerstone of research into cardiovascular disease, generating important information on the pathogenesis of lesion formation and the action of novel therapies. Use of atherosclerosis-prone mice, surgical methods of lesion induction, and dietary modification has dramatically improved understanding of the mechanisms that contribute to disease development and the potential of new treatments.
Classically, analysis of lesions is performed ex vivo using 2-dimensional histological techniques. This article describes application of optical projection tomography (OPT) to 3-dimensional quantitation of arterial lesions. As this technique is non-destructive, it can be used as an adjunct to standard histological and immunohistochemical analyses.
Neointimal lesions were induced by wire-insertion or ligation of the mouse femoral artery whilst atherosclerotic lesions were generated by administration of an atherogenic diet to apoE-deficient mice.
Lesions were examined using OPT imaging of autofluorescent emission followed by complementary histological and immunohistochemical analysis. OPT clearly distinguished lesions from the underlying vascular wall. Lesion size was calculated in 2-dimensional sections using planimetry, enabling calculation of lesion volume and maximal cross-sectional area. Data generated using OPT were consistent with measurements obtained using histology, confirming the accuracy of the technique and its potential as a complement (rather than alternative) to traditional methods of analysis.
This work demonstrates the potential of OPT for imaging atherosclerotic and neointimal lesions. It provides a rapid, much needed ex vivo technique for the routine 3-dimensional quantification of vascular remodelling.

Ex vivo analysis of arterial lesions from animal models of cardiovascular disease classically relies on histological and immunohistochemical techniques. These provide 2-dimensional measurements in 3-dimensional lesions. This manuscript describes the generation of arterial lesions for quantitative analysis in 3-dimensions using optical projection tomography.

発生と光学投影トモグラフィを用いたマウスにおける動脈病変の3次元定量

The generation and analysis of vascular lesions in appropriate animal models is a cornerstone of research into cardiovascular disease, generating ...

Computerized Dynamic Posturography for Postural Control Assessment in Patients with Intermittent Claudication

Computerized dynamic posturography with the EquiTest is an objective technique for measuring postural strategies under challenging static and dynamic conditions. As part of a diagnostic assessment, the early detection of postural deficits is important so that appropriate and targeted interventions can be prescribed. The Sensory Organization Test (SOT) on the EquiTest determines an individual&#39;s use of the sensory systems (somatosensory, visual, and vestibular) that are responsible for postural control. Somatosensory and visual input are altered by the calibrated sway-referenced support surface and visual surround, which move in the anterior-posterior direction in response to the individual&#39;s postural sway. This creates a conflicting sensory experience. The Motor Control Test (MCT) challenges postural control by creating unexpected postural disturbances in the form of backwards and forwards translations. The translations are graded in magnitude and the time to recover from the perturbation is computed.
Intermittent claudication, the most common symptom of peripheral arterial disease, is characterized by a cramping pain in the lower limbs and caused by muscle ischemia secondary to reduced blood flow to working muscles during physical exertion. Claudicants often display poor balance, making them susceptible to falls and activity avoidance. The Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) is a noninvasive method for indicating the presence of peripheral arterial disease and intermittent claudication, a common symptom in the lower extremities. ABPI is measured as the highest systolic pressure from either the dorsalis pedis or posterior tibial artery divided by the highest brachial artery systolic pressure from either arm. This paper will focus on the use of computerized dynamic posturography in the assessment of balance in claudicants.

Individuals with intermittent claudication exhibit poor balance compared to healthy controls. Computerized dynamic posturography is an objective method for measuring an individual's postural responses to balance disturbances. This provides an objective reflection of the person&#x2019;s ability to respond to situations under which sensory stimuli are altered and unexpected perturbations occur.

間歇性跛行患者における姿勢制御評価のためのコンピュータ化されたダイナミックPosturography

Computerized dynamic posturography with the EquiTest is an objective technique for measuring postural strategies under challenging static and dynamic ...

Quantitation of Intra-peritoneal Ovarian Cancer Metastasis

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the leading cause of death from gynecologic malignancy in the United States. Mortality is due to diagnosis of 75% of women with late stage disease, when metastasis is already present. EOC is characterized by diffuse and widely disseminated intra-peritoneal metastasis. Cells shed from the primary tumor anchor in the mesothelium that lines the peritoneal cavity as well as in the omentum, resulting in multi-focal metastasis, often in the presence of peritoneal ascites. Efforts in our laboratory are directed at a more detailed understanding of factors that regulate EOC metastatic success. However, quantifying metastatic tumor burden represents a significant technical challenge due to the large number, small size and broad distribution of lesions throughout the peritoneum. Herein we describe a method for analysis of EOC metastasis using cells labeled with red fluorescent protein (RFP) coupled with in vivo multispectral imaging. Following intra-peritoneal injection of RFP-labelled tumor cells, mice are imaged weekly until time of sacrifice. At this time, the peritoneal cavity is surgically exposed and organs are imaged in situ. Dissected organs are then placed on a labeled transparent template and imaged ex vivo. Removal of tissue auto-fluorescence during image processing using multispectral unmixing enables accurate quantitation of relative tumor burden. This method has utility in a variety of applications including therapeutic studies to evaluate compounds that may inhibit metastasis and thereby improve overall survival.

Ovarian cancer metastasis is characterized by numerous diffuse intra-peritoneal lesions, such that accurate visual quantitation of tumor burden is challenging. Herein we describe a method for in situ and ex vivo quantitation of metastatic tumor burden using red fluorescent protein (RFP)-labeled tumor cells and optical imaging.

腹腔内卵巣癌転移の定量

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the leading cause of death from gynecologic malignancy in the United States.  Mortality is due to diagnosis of 75% of ...

Method of Direct Segmental Intra-hepatic Delivery Using a Rat Liver Hilar Clamp Model

Major hepatic surgery with inflow occlusion, and liver transplantation, necessitate a period of warm ischemia, and a period of reperfusion leading to ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury with myriad negative consequences. Potential I/R injury in marginal organs destined for liver transplantation contributes to the current donor shortage secondary to a decreased organ utilization rate. A significant need exists to explore hepatic I/R injury in order to mediate its impact on graft function in transplantation. Rat liver hilar clamp models are used to investigate the impact of different molecules on hepatic I/R injury. Depending on the model, these molecules have been delivered using inhalation, epidural infusion, intraperitoneal injection, intravenous administration or injection into the peripheral superior mesenteric vein. A rat liver hilar clamp model has been developed for use in studying the impact of pharmacologic molecules in ameliorating I/R injury. The described model for rat liver hilar clamp includes direct cannulation of the portal supply to the ischemic hepatic segment via a side branch of the portal vein, allowing for direct segmental hepatic delivery. Our approach is to induce ischemia in the left lateral and median lobes for 60 min, during which time the substance under study is infused. In this case, pegylated-superoxide dismutase (PEG-SOD), a free radical scavenger, is infused directly into the ischemic segment. This series of experiments demonstrates that infusion of PEG-SOD is protective against hepatic I/R injury. Advantages of this approach include direct injection of the molecule into the ischemic segment with consequent decrease in volume of distribution and reduction in systemic side effects.

A unique rat liver hilar clamp model was developed for studying the impact of pharmacologic molecules in ameliorating ischemia-reperfusion injury. This model includes direct cannulation of the portal supply to the ischemic liver segment via a branch of the portal vein, allowing for direct hepatic delivery.

ラット肝臓肝門部クランプモデルを用いたダイレクトセグメント別肝臓内送達方法

Major hepatic surgery with inflow occlusion, and liver transplantation, necessitate a period of warm ischemia, and a period of reperfusion leading to ...

Reproducible Arterial Denudation Injury by Infrarenal Abdominal Aortic Clamping in a Murine Model

Percutaneous vascular interventions uniformly result in arterial denudation injuries that subsequently lead to thrombosis and restenosis. These complications can be attributed to impairments in re-endothelialization within the wound margins. Yet, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of re-endothelialization remain to be defined. While several animal models to study re-endothelialization after arterial denudation are available, few are performed in the mouse because of surgical limitations. This undermines the opportunity to exploit transgenic mouse lines and investigate the contribution of specific genes to the process of re-endothelialization. Here, we present a step-by-step protocol for creating a highly reproducible murine model of arterial denudation injury in the infrarenal abdominal aorta using external vascular clamping. Immunocytochemical staining of injured aortas for fibrinogen and &#946;-catenin demonstrate the exposure of a pro-thrombotic surface and the border of intact endothelium, respectively. The method presented here has the advantages of speed, excellent overall survival rate, and relative technical ease, creating a uniquely practical tool for imposing arterial denudation injury in transgenic mouse models. Using this method, investigators may elucidate the mechanisms of re-endothelialization under normal or pathological conditions.

Understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of re-endothelialization following arterial denudation injury is of paramount importance in preventing thrombosis and restenosis of arteries. Here we describe a protocol for reproducible arterial denudation injury of the infrarenal abdominal aorta. The procedure was developed to investigate the underlying mechanisms that regulate endothelial regeneration using mouse models.

マウスモデルにおける下腹部大動脈クランプすることにより、再現性動脈侵食に起因けが

Percutaneous vascular interventions uniformly result in arterial denudation injuries that subsequently lead to thrombosis and restenosis. These ...

A Method for Quantifying Upper Limb Performance in Daily Life Using Accelerometers

A key reason for referral to rehabilitation services after stroke and other neurological conditions is to improve one's ability to function in daily life. It has become important to measure a person's activities in daily life, and not just measure their capacity for activity in the structured environment of a clinic or laboratory. A wearable sensor that is now enabling measurement of daily movement is the accelerometer. Accelerometers are commercially-available devices resembling large wrist watches that can be worn throughout the day. Data from accelerometers can quantify how the limbs are engaged to perform activities in peoples' homes and communities. This report describes a methodology to collect accelerometry data and turn it into clinically-relevant information. First, data are collected by having the participant wear two accelerometers (one on each wrist) for 24 h or longer. The accelerometry data are then downloaded and processed to produce four different variables that describe key aspects of upper limb activity in daily life: hours of use, use ratio, magnitude ratio, and the bilateral magnitude. Density plots can be constructed that visually represent the data from the 24 h wearing period. The variables and their resultant density plots are highly consistent in neurologically-intact, community-dwelling adults. This striking consistency makes them a useful tool for determining if upper limb daily performance is different from normal. This methodology is appropriate for research studies investigating upper limb dysfunction and interventions designed to improve upper limb performance in daily life in people with stroke and other patient populations. Because of its relative simplicity, it may not be long before it is also incorporated in clinical neurorehabilitation practice.

This protocol describes a method to quantify upper limb performance in daily life using wrist-worn accelerometers.

加速度計を使用して日常生活に上肢のパフォーマンスを定量化する方法

A key reason for referral to rehabilitation services after stroke and other neurological conditions is to improve one's ability to function in daily life. ...

Ablation of Ischemic Ventricular Tachycardia Using a Multipolar Catheter and 3-dimensional Mapping System for High-density Electro-anatomical Reconstruction

Ventricular tachycardia (VT) in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy mainly results from endocardial scars after myocardial infarction; those scars represent zones of slow conduction that allow the occurrence and maintenance of reentrant circuits. Catheter ablation enables substrate modification of those low voltage areas and thus can help to alter the scar tissue in such a way that arrhythmias cannot appear anymore. Hospitalizations of concerned patients decrease, quality of life and outcome rise. Consequently, VT ablation represents a growing field in electrophysiology, especially for patients with endocardial scars in ischemic heart disease after myocardial infarction. However, ablation of ventricular tachycardia remains one of the most challenging procedures in the electrophysiology lab. Precise scar definition and localization of abnormal potentials are critical for ablation success. The following manuscript describes the use of a multipolar mapping catheter and 3-dimensional (3D) mapping system to create a high density electro-anatomical map of the left ventricle including a precise scar representation as well as mapping of fractionated and late potentials in order to allow a highly accurate substrate modification.

With the following protocol, we provide an approach to Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) ablation using high density mapping with a multipolar catheter and 3D mapping system enhancing the success of the procedure.

高密度電気解剖学的再建に多極カテーテルと 3次元マッピング システムを用いて虚血性心室頻拍のアブレーション

Ventricular tachycardia (VT) in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy mainly results from endocardial scars after myocardial infarction; those scars ...

A Computerized Functional Skills Assessment and Training Program Targeting Technology Based Everyday Functional Skills

Today, many functional skills are technology-based, so development of a technology-based training program has broad importance. Here we present a computerized functional skills training program that was paired in half of the participants with a commercially available cognitive training (CCT) program.
Non-impaired older individuals (NC) aged 60+ (n=45) and similarly aged individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI; n=50) were randomized to receive 12 weeks of twice-weekly computerized functional skills training (CFST) or 12 weeks of twice-weekly sessions split between CCT and CFST. Skills trained were use of an ATM; internet banking; ticket kiosk; telephone and internet prescription refill; medication management; and internet shopping. As with previous functional capacity assessments, we focus on completion time for each simulation.
51 participants completed the training program, either by mastering all 6 tasks (34) or completing 12 weeks of training. 44 more participants completed 4 or more training sessions so they were also analyzed for improvement up to their last training session. Completion time for all 6 tests significantly improved from the baseline assessment to the final training session in both groups of participants (all p&#60;0.001 with an average improvement in task completion time of 45%). Further, there was no differential improvement in MCI and NC in the 6 tests from baseline to end of training (all t&#60;1.66, all p&#62;0.12). Finally, combined CCT plus CFST did not differ from CSFT alone on any of the percent-change score measures (all t&#60;1.64, all p&#62;0.11).
Both NC and MCI groups evidenced substantial improvements in performance. CCT supplementation led to similar functional gains with half as many training sessions. The NC participants proceeded through the training fairly rapidly even without CCT supplementation; MCI participants required more training but learned equivalently. These findings suggest that even in cases with memory impairments, functional skills can be efficiently learned with training.

This training protocol uses computerized training to teach technology-related everyday functional skills. These skills include financial skills, travel and transit, as well as medication management.

日常的な機能スキルをベースとした技術を対象とした、コンピュータ化された機能スキル評価とトレーニングプログラム

Today, many functional skills are technology-based, so development of a technology-based training program has broad importance. Here we present a ...

A Reproducible Intensive Care Unit-Oriented Endotoxin Model in Rats

Sepsis and septic shock remain the leading cause of death in intensive care units. Despite significant improvements in sepsis management, mortality still ranges between 20 and 30%. Novel treatment approaches in order to reduce sepsis-related multiorgan failure and death are urgently needed. Robust animal models allow for one or multiple treatment approaches as well as for testing their effect on physiological and molecular parameters. In this article, a simple animal model is presented.
First, general anesthesia is induced in animals either with the use of volatile or by intraperitoneal anesthesia. After placement of an intravenous catheter (tail vein), tracheostomy, and insertion of an intraarterial catheter (tail artery), mechanical ventilation is started. Baseline values of mean arterial blood pressure, arterial blood oxygen saturation, and heart rate are recorded.
The injection of lipopolysaccharides (1 milligram/kilogram body weight) dissolved in phosphate-buffered saline induces a strong and reproducible inflammatory response via the toll-like receptor 4. Fluid corrections as well as the application of norepinephrine are performed based on well-established protocols.
The animal model presented in this article is easy to learn and strongly oriented towards clinical sepsis treatment in an intensive care unit with sedation, mechanical ventilation, continuous blood pressure monitoring, and repetitive blood sampling. Also, the model is reliable, allowing for reproducible data with a limited number of animals in accordance with the 3R (reduce, replace, refine) principles of animal research. While animal experiments in sepsis research cannot easily replaced, repetitive measurements allow for a reduction of animals and keeping septic animals anesthetized diminishes suffering.

Here, we present a reproducible intensive care unit-oriented endotoxin model in rats.

ラットにおける再現可能な集中治療ユニット指向エンドトキシンモデル

Sepsis and septic shock remain the leading cause of death in intensive care units. Despite significant improvements in sepsis management, mortality still ...