Estimating uncertainty in density surface models.

Providing uncertainty estimates for predictions derived from species distribution models is essential for management but there is little guidance on potential sources of uncertainty in predictions and how best to combine these. Here we show where uncertainty can arise in density surface models (a multi-stage spatial modelling approach for distance sampling data), focussing on cetacean density modelling. We propose an extensible, modular, hybrid analytical-simulation approach to encapsulate these sources.

Expanding protected areas to encompass the conservation of the endangered common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) in the Alboran Sea.

The Natura 2000 network is the centerpiece of the European Union conservation strategy to safeguard priority species and habitats. The question of whether other co-occurring species of conservation concern may also benefit from this network, however, remains largely unknown. Here, we used a systematic approach (MARXAN) for i) evaluating if the current Natura 2000 network in the Alboran Sea (western Mediterranean Sea), initially proposed to protect the common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and priority habitats, is also spatially protecting the endangered common dolphin (Delphinus delphis), and ii) identifying additional marine areas that should be protected to reach adequate conservation targets for the common dolphin.

Influence of E-cadherin genetic variation in canine mammary tumour risk, clinicopathological features and prognosis.

E-cadherin is a cell adhesion molecule that participates in several cellular processes that guarantee the maintenance of structural and functional integrity of epithelial tissues. E-cadherin plays an important role in mammary carcinogenesis, and various studies have demonstrated the effect of CDH1 genetic variation in risk, progression and biological behaviour of human breast cancer. Although there are some recognized genetic variations in canine CDH1 gene, their influence in canine mammary tumour development and progression has not been previously evaluated.

The cell tube block technique and an immunohistochemistry panel including Wilms tumor 1 to assist in diagnosing cavitary effusions in dogs and cats.

Background: Cell blocks and immunohistochemistry (IHC) are increasingly recognized as being complementary tools for cytologic diagnostics, especially for neoplastic diseases.

Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate the utility of cell tube block (CTB) IHC for refining the diagnosis of effusions in dogs and cats.

Methods: Cavitary effusions (n = 25) from dogs and cats classified by cytology as reactive, neoplastic, borderline (suspicious of neoplasia), and chylous were studied.