A molecular-based identification resource for the arthropods of Finland.

To associate specimens identified by molecular characters to other biological knowledge, we need reference sequences annotated by Linnaean taxonomy. In this study, we (1) report the creation of a comprehensive reference library of DNA barcodes for the arthropods of an entire country (Finland), (2) publish this library, and (3) deliver a new identification tool for insects and spiders, as based on this resource. The reference library contains mtDNA COI barcodes for 11,275 (43%) of 26,437 arthropod species known from Finland, including 10,811 (45%) of 23,956 insect species.

Volumetric quantitation by MRI in primary progressive multiple sclerosis: volumes of plaques and atrophy correlated with neurological disability.

In primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) abnormalities in brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) differ from abnormalities in other subtypes of multiple sclerosis (MS). It was investigated whether the extent of brain and spinal cord MRI abnormalities is reflected in the neurological disability in PPMS. Focal and diffuse changes and atrophy in central nervous system (CNS) in patients with PPMS (n = 28) and healthy controls (n = 20) were assessed by semi-automatic MRI segmentation and volumetric analysis.

Treatment of lymphangiomas with OK-432 (Picibanil).

Purpose: To determine the efficacy of OK-432 sclerotherapy in the treatment of lymphangiomas.

Methods: The treatment was begun for 14 patients with lymphangioma. The age range of the patients at the time of the first injection was from 10 months to 42 years.

Virtual endoscopy imaging of the middle ear cavity and ossicles.

Ten cadaver temporal bone blocks were studied with high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in order to produce topographic images, which are more informative than ordinary CT slices. Virtual endoscopic images were produced with separate, commercially available software, paying attention to the middle ear cavity and ossicles. Four major viewing locations for virtual endoscopy (the ear canal, hypotympanum, attic and eustachian tube) developed images acceptably.