A three-dimensional quantitative analysis of carpal deformity in rheumatoid wrists.

We have measured the three-dimensional patterns of carpal deformity in 20 wrists in 20 rheumatoid patients in which the carpal bones were shifted ulnarwards on plain radiography. Three-dimensional bone models of the carpus and radius were created by computerised tomography with the wrist in the neutral position. The location of the centroids and rotational angle of each carpal bone relative to the radius were calculated and compared with those of ten normal wrists. In the radiocarpal joint, the proximal row was flexed and the centroids of all carpal bones translocated in an ulnar, proximal and volar direction with loss of congruity. In the midcarpal joint, the distal row was extended and congruity generally well preserved. These findings may facilitate more positive use of radiocarpal fusion alone for the deformed rheumatoid wrist.

Development of breed identification markers derived from AFLP in beef cattle.

In the meat industry, correct breed information in food labeling is required to assure meat quality. Genetic markers provide corroborating evidence to identify breed. This paper describes the development of DNA markers to discriminate between Japanese Black and F1 (Japanese Black×Holstein) breeds. Amplified fragment length polymorphism method was employed to detect candidate markers absent in Japanese Black but present in Holstein. The 500 primer combinations yielded six selected markers that were converted into single nucleotide polymorphisms markers for high-throughput genotyping. The allele frequencies in both breeds were investigated for discrimination ability using PCR-RFLP. The probability of identifying F1 was 0.882 and probability of misjudgment was 0.0198. The markers could be useful for discriminating between Japanese Black and F1 and would contribute to the elimination of falsified breed labeling of meat.