bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and dyeing performance of a novel yellow crosslinking polymeric dye
Authors: Tang Bingtao , Zhang Shufen , Yang Jinzong , Tang Yanfeng , Huang Jian
Published: June 2006

A polymeric dye was synthesised via the reaction of 2,4‐dinitrochlorobenzene and polyallylamine prepared from the homopolymerisation of monoallylammonium chloride. The polymeric dye was fixed to cotton and silk via a crosslinking agent [2‐chloro‐4,6‐di(aminobenzene‐4′‐β‐sulphatoethylsulphone)‐1,3,5‐s‐triazine]. The fixation of this polymeric dye reached 99% and the dyeing was fast to dimethylformamide at the boil, indicating that the dye fixation was through covalent bonding with the crosslinking agent, which acted as a bridge between the fibre polymer and the dye molecule. The dyed samples showed excellent fastness to washing and rubbing.
Solubilisation of dyes by surfactant micelles. Part 4: Influence of dye fixatives
Authors: Oakes John , Gratton Pete , Dixon Sarah
Published: June 2006

Dye loss from unfixed dyed fabrics has been found to be insensitive to change in surfactant type or concentration. There was accompanying dye transfer to white fabric but this was reduced by Synperonic A7 in the case of fabrics dyed with CI Direct Green 26, due to solubilisation of the dye in nonionic micelles. The anionic surfactant, SDS, selectively displaced dye from fixed dyed fabrics, paralleling its behaviour with water soluble polymers. Similarly, dye loss was related to concentration of surfactant monomer, the effect increasing with SDS concentration up to its critical micelle concentration. Other anionic surfactants have been found to exhibit a similar trend, the effect increasing with their increasing surface activity. The commercial polymeric fixatives, Tinofix ECO and Indosol E50, were the most effective of those studied and the single‐chain cationic surfactant, CTAB, was the least effective.
Physico‐chemical modelling of the dyeing of cotton with reactive dyes
Authors: Ferus‐Comelo Martin , Clark Matthew
Published: June 2006

Over the past decades a great deal of research effort has been devoted to understanding the physico‐chemical mechanism of the dyeing of cotton with reactive dyes. However, the use of physico‐chemical models has been almost exclusively restricted to research laboratories due to the simplifying assumptions used. A more practical model has now been developed and is intended to allow dyeing recipes and the process parameters used in bulk production to be optimised. The model is additionally able to quantify the effect of non‐controllable variables on overall dyeing efficiency.
Effect of various bioscouring systems on the accessibility of dyes into cotton
Authors: Canal J M , Navarro A , Calafell M , Rodriguez C , Caballero G , Vega B , Canal C , Paul R
Published: June 2006

The effect of four different enzymatic bioscouring systems for cotton have been compared in regard to the dyeability of reactive, cationic and acid dyes. The residual pectin content was determined and the results assessed in terms of dyeability against control samples prepared in the absence of enzyme. The capacity of a bifunctional reactive dye to cover the differences between fabrics treated with different bioscouring treatments was very good. Exhaustion of the cationic dye relative to alkaline scouring was increased by 27.5% and that of the acid dye decreased by 48.2%, indicating that pectin hydrolysis produced an increase in the negative charge on the fibre. The dye exhaustion differences between the four enzymatic systems studied were of significance and confirmed the hypothesis that each enzymatic system provides its own end‐groups, resulting in differences in the response of the fibre to dyeing. Enzymatic bioscouring reduces the pollution level of the effluent.
Modification of cellulose with N‐(2‐chloroethyl)diethylamine hydrochloride: mechanism of improved dyeability with 5‐chloro‐2,4‐difluoropyrimidinyl dyes
Authors: Xu J , Rosenau T , Renfrew A H M , Phillips D A S , Maudru E
Published: June 2006

Monofluorotriazinyl and 5‐chloro‐2,4‐difluoropyrimidinyl dyes were each reacted, in turn, with trimethyl‐ and triethyl‐amine in aqueous solution. Trimethylamine was quaternised by both the fluoroheterocyclic reactive dyes. In the case of the chlorodifluoropyrimidinyl dye, NMR spectroscopy showed that displacement of the C‐2 fluorine atom had occurred. Triethylamine, on the other hand, failed to react with either fluoroheterocycle, strongly suggesting that the covalent bond formation reaction of DEAE‐cotton, with a 5‐chloro‐2,4‐difluoropyrimidinyl dye under neutral conditions, does not involve initial quaternisation. A mechanism involving the deprotonation of the cellulose hydroxy groups, catalysed by the basic groups in DEAE‐cotton, is proposed.
A knowledge‐based expert system for dyeing of cotton. Part 2: Testing and evaluation
Authors: Hussain T , Wardman R H , Shamey R
Published: June 2006

The diagnosis of a number of faulty dyed samples and faults obtained from case studies was carried out by both human experts and the expert system developed in this study, and their performance was compared. An evaluation copy of the software was provided to a number of potential users to obtain feedback on the utility and the helpfulness of the system. The results show highly satisfactory performance when compared to human experts as well as considerable utility potential, providing further impetus for further improvements in the system.
Effect of the age of a spin pack on the dyeing properties of poly(ethylene terephthalate) fibres
Authors: Altun Sule
Published: June 2006

The spin pack is an essential component of melt spinning processes. However, the age of the spin pack can affect the physical properties of polymers. The dyeing properties of poly(ethylene terephthalate) fibres over time in relation to spin pack age were investigated in the present study. With an increase in the age of the spin pack, an increase in colour strength and a decrease in fibre crystallinity were observed. The crystallinity decrease of the fibres through spin pack age was explained by the increase in polymer melt temperature due to increase in spin pack pressure.
Effect of polyamidoamine dendrimers in decolorising triarylmethane dye effluent
Authors: Yiyun Cheng , Jiepin Yang
Published: June 2006

Polyamidoamine dendrimers have been synthesised from ethylenediamine and methyl acrylate and their effectiveness in decolorising wastewater containing Acid Fuchsin and Methyl Blue demonstrated. The effect of variables, such as initial pH, quantity and generation of dendrimer, has been investigated. The experimental results show that under suitable conditions polyamidoamine dendrimers can be highly effective as decolorants.
Dyeing of polyester using micro‐encapsulated disperse dyes in the absence of auxiliaries
Authors: Yi Zhong , Jihong Feng , Shuilin Chen
Published: June 2006

Polyurea microcapsules were prepared in this study, using disperse dye as the core material and diphenylmethane‐4,4′‐diisocyanate as the wall‐former. Microencapsulated disperse dyes have been characterised in terms of their thermal properties, average particle size and size distribution, morphological structure and composition. Polyester fabric was dyed with microencapsulated CI Disperse Blue 56 using a high temperature dyeing process without dispersing agents, penetrating agents, levelling agents or other auxiliaries. The quality of the polyester fabric dyed in this manner – without reduction clearing – was at least as good as that dyed traditionally after washing and reduction clearing. After separating off the polyurea microcapsules, the dyebath was virtually colourless and was shown to be suitable for reuse.
Dyeing properties of soya fibre with reactive and acid dyes
Authors: Choi Jae‐hong , Kang Min‐ju , Yoon Chun
Published: June 2006

In order to determine the most suitable type of dye for soya bean fibre, the dyeing properties of three acid dyes and three bifunctional reactive dyes were compared. Additionally, the effect of a range of reactive groups on dyeing performance were studied, including difluorochloropyrimidine, monofluorotriazine, monochlorotriazine and β‐sulphatoethyl sulphone, and of these the first was found to perform best. Irrespective of reactive group, however, the main factor affecting build‐up was found to be the substantivity of the dye for soya fibre. The monofunctional reactive dyes in general were found to exhibit good wash fastness.
Depth assessment for mixture shades
Authors: Hawkyard C J , Haque A
Published: June 2006

A proposed method of determining standard depth based on lightness at maximum chroma produced a gap in the standard depth curve in the green sector of the hue circle. The technique described in this paper enables the gap in the green region, previously obtained for single dyes, to be filled. Mixture shades of yellow and turquoise reactive dyes on cotton were produced and the colours compared with the colour predicted by a commercial match prediction program. The differences were sufficiently small to enable predicted shades to be used with confidence, obviating the need for physical dyeing. A range of green shades was generated by entering colorant concentrations on a trial and error basis, and from this a series of greens evenly spread through that segment of the hue circle was selected. The proposed method therefore appears to apply both for substrates dyed with single dyes and mixture shades.
Bleaching of cotton with activated peroxide systems
Authors: Lim Sang‐Hoon , Lee Jung Jin , Hinks David , Hauser Peter
Published: June 2006

The bleaching performance of a novel cationic bleach activator, N‐[4‐(triethylammoniomethyl)benzoyl]‐caprolactam chloride, was compared to that of nonanoyloxybenzene sulphonate, a commercially available anionic bleach activator. The whiteness of bleached cotton fabric was used as a measure of the performance. Comparison of bleach performance and the effect of key variables were evaluated using a central composite experimental design. The performances of both activators increased with temperature and sodium hydroxide concentration. Also, the performance of the cationic bleach activator increased with activator concentration, while an increase in the concentration of nonanoyloxybenzene sulphonate gave an adverse effect on the performance. It was found that the cationic bleach activator was superior to the anionic activator in the hot bleaching of cotton under the conditions studied.
A new goniospectrophotometer for measuring gonio‐apparent materials
Authors: Pointer Michael R , Barnes Nicholas J , Shaw Michael J , Clarke Peter J
Published: June 2006

The measurement of appearance is an emotive topic that requires attention. There are many in industry who are aware that they need to make better measurements of parameters that correlate with the visual appearance of their products. Equally, there are many new materials that have exciting angular‐dependent characteristics, for example new interference‐based, gonio‐apparent pigments. This angle dependence implies that consideration should be given to measuring colour using geometries other than the conventional sphere‐based or 45°/0° configurations. It also suggests that gloss might be usefully measured at angles other than the 20, 60 and 85° conventionally used. An instrument is described in this paper that measures the spectral radiance of a sample as a function of wavelength, the angle of illumination and the angle of viewing. The instrument is computer controlled and designed to be easily operable. © Crown copyright 2004 – reproduced by permission of the Controller of HMSO.
Bleaching of cotton fabric with peracetic acid in the presence of different activators
Authors: Križman Pavla , Kovač Franci , Tavčer Petra Forte
Published: June 2006

Peracetic acid is an efficient oxidant and a good alternative to conventional chemicals for bleaching cotton. In order to establish optimal conditions for its use, giving a high degree of whiteness and good water absorption without damage to the fabric, the chemistry of its consumption and the efficiency of the bleaching process have been examined. The effect of temperature and initial pH was assessed, and in particular the influence of the alkali used to control the pH. The highest and most rapid consumption of peracetic acid was seen with magnesium carbonate, the slowest with sodium hydroxide. The bleaching effect was greatest with sodium carbonate and least with sodium hydroxide, although the differences were not large. In all cases damage to the fabric was minimal. The best conditions for bleaching with peracetic acid were found to be 60 °C and an initial pH 7, in the presence of either sodium carbonate or magnesium carbonate.
Supercritical carbon dioxide containing a cationic perfluoropolyether surfactant for dyeing wool
Authors: Jun J H , Ueda M , Sawada K , Sugimoto M , Urakawa H
Published: June 2006

The phase behaviour of a cationic perfluoropolyether surfactant in supercritical carbon dioxide and its ability to solubilise ionic dyes has been investigated. This cationic surfactant was found to dissolve satisfactorily in supercritical carbon dioxide and was able to form micellar aggregates incorporating a small amount of water in their interior. Conventional anionic dyes such as acid and reactive dyes were solubilised satisfactorily in the cationic surfactant/water/supercritical carbon dioxide system. The surfactant was more effective in this respect than its anionic analogue.
Dyeing properties of polyamide super‐microfibre with disperse dyes
Authors: Bai Gang , Song Xin Yuan
Published: June 2006

The dyeing properties of polyamide super‐microfibres and conventional fibres dyed with disperse dyes have been studied by measuring the adsorption isotherm, the rate of dye uptake, the time of half‐dyeing and the amount of equilibrium adsorption. The thermodynamic analysis shows that the adsorption isotherms of super‐microfibres follow a Langmuir sorption model. The kinetic results show that super‐microfibres have a faster dyeing rate and a higher equilibrium dye uptake compared to conventional fibres. This can be explained by the greater surface area and dye capacity of the super‐microfibres. The wash and light fastness properties of the super‐microfibres dyed with disperse dyes are lower than conventional fibres.
Phosphate binders: New products and challenges
Authors: BELLASI Antonio , KOOIENGA Laura , BLOCK Geoffrey A.
Published: June 2006

Optimal phosphate control in dialysis patients is extremely challenging. A growing awareness of the deleterious effect of mineral metabolism imbalances together with the lack of a satisfactory explanation for the exaggerated mortality rate in patients undergoing renal replacement therapy has led to a renewed effort to refine our approach to hyperphosphatemia. However, despite the remarkable improvements in dialysis techniques, phosphate control has not substantially improved. Achieving normo‐phosphatemia presents a multitude of practical and scientific challenges related to the optimal target level, cardiovascular health, and drug toxicities. It is the aim of the present review to summarize briefly the controversies associated with currently available phosphate binders, a cornerstone in the current management of hyperphosphatemia.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of new uremic patients with extreme azotemia in southern Taiwan
Authors: CHENG Meng‐Fu , LIU Hsin‐Liang , WU An‐Bang , HSIEH Ryh‐Yaw , GUO How‐Ran , HUANG Jeng‐Jong
Published: June 2006

Serum creatinine (SCr) had been considered to be an important predictor of mortality in end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients at the start of renal replacement therapy (RRT). However, the data were limited about initially extreme azotemia (EA), exclusively defined as blood urea nitrogen (BUN)≥300 mg/dL, SCr≥30 mg/dL, or both. This retrospective study was conducted to clarify the characteristics and outcome in our EA patients. We had 1682 new ESRD patients from July 1988 to December 1996. With frequency match for age, gender, and starting RRT in the same period, 20 EA patients and 60 controls were included. Fifty percent of our EA patients had unknown etiology. The EA patients had significantly lower prevalence of underlying diabetic nephropathy, and comorbid hypertension. All the EA patients had late referral to nephrologists within 4 weeks before the initiation of RRT, and 90% of them had taken Chinese herbals. The EA group had significantly higher BUN, SCr, and iron storage as well as a higher prevalence of severe anemia, hyperkalemia, hypocalcemia, and acidemia. However, the similar prevalence of cardiomegaly and left ventricular hypertrophy as well as the similar early mortality rate and long‐term survival were noted. Age over 40 years, comorbid diabetes mellitus, and hypoalbuminemia were independent predictors of poor survival. Our EA patients had different initial presentations from other uremic ones at the start of RRT. However, the short‐term and long‐term mortality rates were similar. The lower prevalence of underlying diabetic nephropathy and comorbid hypertension among the EA patients might contribute to their fair outcome.
Interface Properties in a Porous‐Matrix Oxide Composite
Authors: Weaver Jared H. , Rannou Johann , Mattoni Michael A. , Zok Frank W.
Published: June 2006

This study focuses on the interfacial properties of a family of porous matrix oxide composites with uncoated fibers. Measurements of debond energy and sliding stress are made using a modified version of the established fiber push‐in test. Modifications include the following: (i) use of a sphero‐conical indenter (not a sharp‐tipped one) to produce only elastic deformation of the fibers, and (ii) analysis of the loop width (instead of absolute displacements) to ascertain interface properties. The method obviates the need for indentation tests on reference (non‐sliding) fibers. It also mitigates the problems associated with the elastic deformation of the surrounding matrix. The measured debond toughnesses (about 0.05 J/m2) are about two orders of magnitude lower than the fiber toughness. This ensures that debonding will occur when a matrix crack impinges on a fiber. Additionally, the sliding stresses are in the same range as those reported for C‐coated Nicalon fibers in glass–ceramic matrices (about 5 MPa). The latter results are qualitatively consistent with the observed damage tolerance in these two seemingly disparate systems, as manifested in the degree of fiber pullout as well as the notch sensitivity of tensile strength.
The role of docosahexaenoic acid on visual evoked potentials in one kidney‐one clip hypertension
Authors: Hacioglu Gulay , Agar Aysel , Yargicoglu Piraye
Published: June 2006

Purpose:  To investigate the effects of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on visual evoked potentials (VEPs) in a one kidney‐one clip (1K‐1C) hypertension model in rats.

Methods:  Five experimental groups were formed: a control group, a sham group, a group supplemented with DHA, a 1K‐1C group, and a 1K‐1C + DHA group. The DHA groups were treated for 60 days. In the 1K‐1C groups, the right kidney was removed and a silver clip with a 0.2‐mm gap was placed on the left renal artery.

Results:  The DHA‐supplemented rats had lower blood pressure than their respective controls (p < 0.01). The increased brain and retina thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels in hypertensive rats were abolished by DHA administration. The brain nitrite levels were lower in the DHA, 1K‐1C and 1K‐1C + DHA groups compared with the control group (p < 0.01), and the retina nitrite level was higher in the 1K‐1C + DHA group compared with the DHA and 1K‐1C groups (p < 0.01). There was an improvement of P2, N2 and P3 components following DHA supplementation in 1K‐1C hypertensive rats compared with the 1K‐1C group.

Conclusion:  The present study suggests that DHA supplementation has the potential to prevent VEP changes caused by an experimental model of hypertension. This state might be related to the lipid peroxidation lowering effect of DHA.
Topography of the posterior arteries supplying the eye and relations to the optic nerve
Authors: Erdogmus Senem , Govsa Figen
Published: June 2006

Purpose:  The aim of the study was to investigate the arterial blood supply of the intraorbital part of the optic nerve.

Methods:  The location, course, length and diameter of the central retinal artery (CRA) and posterior ciliary arteries were studied in 19 adult white male preserved cadavers of between 35 and 75 years of age.

Results:  In right eyes, the first branch of the intraorbital part of the ophthalmic artery was the CRA in 26.3% (5/19) and the CRA and medial posterior ciliary artery in 21% (4/19) of eyes. In left eyes, the first branch of the intraorbital part of the ophthalmic artery was the CRA in 47.4% (9/19) and the CRA and medial posterior ciliary artery in 26.3% (5/19) of eyes. The CRA was observed as a single branch in 57.9% and a trunk in 42.1% of right eyes, and as a single branch in 52.6% and a trunk in 47.3% of left eyes. The outer diameter of the CRA measured 0.6 ± 0.1 mm (min–max 0.5–0.9 mm) in right eyes and 0.6 ± 0.2 mm (min–max 0.4–0.9 mm) in left eyes. The CRA entered the optic nerve 7.5 ± 2.2 mm (min–max 5.3–12.5 mm) behind the ocular bulb in right eyes and 7.4 ± 2.3 mm (min–max 5.3–14.1 mm) behind it in left eyes, at its lower and medial side. The posterior ciliary arteries ran forward, divided into multiple branches and pierced the sclera close to the optic nerve medially, laterally or superiorly. The longitudinal capillaries ran between the optic nerve and the CRA antero‐posteriorly, while the transverse capillaries surrounded the optic nerve. Collaterals from both the longitudinal and transverse capillaries joined to form a complicated capillary plexus.

Conclusion:  This article confirms the well known variability of the arterial circulation of the intraorbital part of the optic nerve. Better understanding of the arterial anatomy of the intraorbital part of the optic nerve should enable appropriate modification of surgical techniques.
Photodynamic treatment in a rabbit model of glaucoma surgery
Authors: Stasi Kalliopi , Paccione Jeff , Bianchi Glen , Friedman Alan , Danias John
Published: June 2006

Purpose:  To evaluate the safety and efficacy of postoperative verteporfin photodynamic treatment as an adjunct to glaucoma experimental filtration surgery in rabbits.

Methods:  Dutch belted (n = 15) rabbits underwent full thickness sclerectomy in one eye. The experimental group (group 1, n = 7) underwent i.v. injection of verteporfin and subsequent photoactivation at the operative site on postoperative day 1 (POD 1). Control groups of animals received either light exposure (group 2, n = 4) or verteporfin (group 3, n = 2), or no intervention (group 4, n = 2). Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured prior to the procedure (POD 0) and daily thereafter for the first week after sclerectomy (PODs 1−7) and every other day for the second week (PODs 9, 11, 13, 15). Percentage IOP reductions of operated over contralateral control eyes were compared among the various groups. Success rates (percentage IOP reduction > 15%) were also compared between the experimental and control groups. Eyes were histologically examined for evaluation of fibrosis.

Results:  Rabbits in the experimental group (group 1) had a mean ± SEM percentage IOP reduction of 25 ± 3% during the follow‐up period. In contrast, groups 2, 3 and 4 had IOP reductions of 4 ± 5%, 12 ± 7% and 4 ± 6%, respectively (p < 0.005, anova among all four groups). Successful IOP reduction (≥ 15%) over the contralateral eye at POD 15 was achieved in six of seven experimental animals, but only in one of eight control animals (p < 0.02, chi‐squared test). Bleb failure occurred significantly earlier in the control eyes compared with eyes receiving PDT (p < 0.003, log rank test). Blebs in the experimental group differed from those in the control groups histologically, lacking significant collagen deposition in the area of the sclerostomy.

Conclusions:  Wound healing in glaucoma surgery may be successfully modulated postoperatively using photodynamic therapy with i.v. administered photosensitizer.
Photodynamic therapy in subfoveal and juxtafoveal idiopathic and postinflammatory choroidal neovascularization
Authors: Ruiz‐Moreno José M. , Montero Javier A. , Arias Luis , Sanabria Maria R. , Coco Rosa , Silva Rufino , Araiz Javier , Gomez‐Ulla Francisco , Garcia‐Layana Alfredo
Published: June 2006

Purpose:  To evaluate the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of idiopathic and inflammatory choroidal neovascularization (CNV).

Methods:  This study represents a non‐randomized, multicentre, interventional case series. Sixteen eyes of 16 patients with classic or predominantly classic sub‐ and juxtafoveal idiopathic CNV and 26 eyes of 24 patients with classic or predominantly classic sub‐ and juxtafoveal CNV secondary to inflammatory conditions were treated with PDT with verteporfin. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) before and after PDT, the number of lines gained or lost and the number of PDT sessions were analysed.

Results:  The mean follow‐up periods were 20 months (SD 11) and 16 months (SD 9) for the idiopathic and inflammatory groups, respectively. The mean BCVA in idiopathic CNV changed from 0.63 logMAR (SD 0.37) before treatment to 0.82 logMAR (SD 0.43) after treatment (p = 0.16; Student's t‐test paired data). The number of treatments performed averaged 2.1 (range 1−4, SD 0.9). The mean BCVA in postinflammatory CNV changed from 0.60 logMAR (SD 0.4) before treatment to 0.57 logMAR (SD 0.6) after treatment (p = 0.79; Student's t‐test paired data). The mean number of treatments was 2.6 (range 1−6, SD 1.2).

Conclusions:  Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin may be useful in stabilizing BCVA in patients with sub‐ and juxtafoveal postinflammatory CNV and subfoveal idiopathic CNV.
Donor corneas for transplantation: a scanning electron microscopic study of the epithelium
Authors: Slettedal Jon Klokk , Lyberg Torstein , Ramstad Hanne , Nicolaissen Bjørn
Published: June 2006

Purpose:  Donor corneas are processed in eye banks and used for transplantation as a standard routine. The maximum time limit post‐mortem for harvesting donor tissue varies greatly between eye banks. This study aimed to examine the corneal epithelium for structural changes post‐mortem.

Methods:  A total of 51 corneas harvested between 14 and 163 hours post‐mortem were examined using scanning electron and light microscopy.

Results:  Cell loss occurred through desquamation of flat superficial cells during the first days. In corneas with a post‐mortem time of more than 2−3 days, large superficial cell sheets and deeper cells detached, starting centrally. Deep peripheral cells remained. The loss of the superficial cells revealed the 3‐dimensional structure of the epithelium and the membrane characteristics of deeper cells.

Conclusion:  The longer the time post‐mortem, the greater the epithelial cell loss. However, a rim of peripheral cells remained, even after 7 days. The superficial cell layer showed signs of strong lateral attachment and broke up in a sheet‐like fashion. The intercellular adhesion between deeper cells and adhesion between the basal cells and the basement membrane appeared to be weak post‐mortem. The cell membrane structures of the remaining cells were surprisingly well retained. The clinical implication of the study is discussed.
Combined central retinal artery and vein occlusion in Churg–Strauss syndrome: case report
Authors: Hamann Steffen , Johansen Sven
Published: June 2006

Purpose:  To describe a rare case of Churg–Strauss syndrome presenting with severe visual loss due to a combined central retinal vein and artery occlusion.

Methods:  A 42‐year old man with a medical history of asthma and blood hypereosinophilia developed a sudden loss of vision in his right eye. We describe the clinical features and evolution of the case after treatment.

Results:  A combined occlusion of the central retinal artery and central retinal vein was diagnosed by the funduscopic appearance of retinal whitening, macular cherry‐red spot, papilloedema, retinal haemorrhages in all four quadrants and dilated and tortuous veins. The diagnosis was confirmed by a fluorescein angiogram showing absence of retinal filling and normal choroidal filling. Churg–Strauss syndrome was diagnosed based on the necessary presence of four of six criteria for the disease proposed by the American College of Rheumatology. Corticosteroid therapy was initiated. However, during the following year when tapering off the daily dosage, the patient experienced two relapses, with pulmonary symptoms and hypereosinophilia, and the corticosteroid dosage had to be augmented. The patient presented with neovascular glaucoma 7 weeks after the vascular occlusion and experienced no visual improvement.

Conclusion:  Combined central retinal artery and vein occlusion can occur in Churg–Strauss syndrome. We suggest that regional vasculitis may be the pathological mechanism underlying the vascular occlusions observed in our case. The condition carries a very poor prognosis for vision, due to the resulting retinal ischaemia, and a poor general prognosis due to the late stage of the systemic disease. Corticosteroids should be instigated promptly in order to prevent further systemic or ocular vasculitis.
Arteriovenous adventitial sheathotomy for branch retinal vein occlusion: report of a case with longterm follow‐up
Authors: Wrigstad Anders , Algvere Peep
Published: June 2006

Purpose:  To report the longterm follow‐up of a case of branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) treated with vitrectomy and adventitial sheathotomy.

Methods:  A three‐port vitrectomy was performed in a 55‐year‐old man with symptoms of BRVO of about 3 months' duration. After a core vitrectomy, the adventitial sheath of the affected arteriovenous crossing was dissected so that the anterior surface of the arteriole was freely exposed.

Results:  On the second postoperative day, visual acuity (VA) in the affected left eye had increased from preoperative 0.3 to 0.6. Within 6 months the fundus had almost normalized and vision improved to 1.0. Cataract surgery was performed about 2 years after the vitrectomy. At a follow‐up 4 years and 11 months after the sheathotomy, VA was 1.0 and no signs of recurrence were seen.

Conclusions:  Adventitial sheathotomy may improve vision in selected cases of BRVO. Further studies are necessary to determine the role of sheathotomy in the management of cases with BRVO.
An evidence‐based analysis of surgical interventions for uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
Authors: Saw Seang‐Mei , Gazzard Gus , Wagle Ajeet M. , Lim Jimmy , Au Eong Kah‐Guan
Published: June 2006

Purpose:  To evaluate the various surgical interventions available for uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

Methods:  Reports of controlled clinical trials of surgical interventions (pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckling and vitrectomy) for uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment indexed in MEDLINE from 1968 to January 2006 were included. The primary outcomes evaluated included single‐operation reattachment rates, multiple reoperation reattachment rates and improvements in visual acuity (VA).

Results:  We found five controlled trials (two randomized) comparing the efficacy of pneumatic retinopexy versus scleral buckling. The single‐operation reattachment rates were higher for scleral buckling, but the final reattachment rates were similar. We found nine controlled trials (four randomized) evaluating vitrectomy. There were no statistically significant differences between retinal reattachment rates or final visual acuities, except in one randomized and one non‐randomized controlled trial in which the VAs were significantly better in the vitrectomy than the scleral buckling group.

Conclusions:  Pneumatic retinopexy is a possible alternative to scleral buckling in the treatment of uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. The rates of missed or new retinal breaks after pneumatic retinopexy, however, are higher than following scleral buckling. The clinical outcomes of vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment compare favourably.
Biochemical changes in selenite cataract model measured by high‐resolution MAS 1H NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Fris Miroslav , Tessem May‐Britt , Sæther Oddbjørn , Midelfart Anna
Published: June 2006

Purpose:  To correlate certain levels of lens opacification with high‐resolution magic‐angle spinning proton nuclear magnetic resonance (HR‐MAS 1H NMR) spectroscopy analysis of the biochemical changes in rat lenses in a selenite cataract model.

Methods:  Selenite cataract was induced by injecting 13‐day‐old Sprague‐Dawley rat pups with a single subcutaneous dose of sodium selenite (3.28 mg/kg in 0.9% sodium chloride solution). Lens opacification was observed using a photographic slit‐lamp microscope at selected time‐points 3, 6 and 9 days after selenite injection and was then graded (levels 0, 1 and 2). The animals were killed after the slit‐lamp microscopy, lenses were removed and HR‐MAS 1H NMR spectra from intact lenses were obtained. Relative changes in metabolite concentrations were determined after comparison with matched lenses from untreated animals.

Results:  Photographic slit‐lamp microscopy revealed different stages of cataract in all animals treated with selenite. In the high quality HR‐MAS 1H NMR spectra of the lenses, more than 30 different metabolites were identified in each lens. With the exception of taurine, the concentrations of all amino acids showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the second level of cataract. By contrast, glutathione (GSH), succinate and phosphocholine concentrations were significantly reduced.

Conclusions:  For the first time, this study demonstrates the potential to correlate the level of lens opacification with the biochemical changes obtained with HR‐MAS 1H NMR spectroscopy analysis in a selenite cataract model.
Posterior capsule opacification: comparisons between morphology, visual acuity and self‐assessed visual function
Authors: Sundelin Karin , Lundström Mats , Stenevi Ulf
Published: June 2006

Purpose:  To investigate whether posterior capsule opacification (PCO) morphology, visual acuity (VA) and self‐assessed visual function correlate, and to compare perceived visual disabilities with those of cataract patients with corresponding VA.

Methods:  Twenty‐one patients with PCO were examined before capsulotomy. In adjunct to the ophthalmological examination, the patients completed a Catquest questionnaire and a digitized retroillumation image was acquired. The images were analysed with the Evaluation of Posterior Capsule Opacification (EPCO) program. Data for visual function were compared with data from the National Swedish Cataract Register (NCR).

Results:  The epco values were correlated with VA in the PCO eyes: the higher the epco score, the lower the VA. There were also correlations between the epco scores, satisfaction with vision, and perceived disabilities in daily life. Symptoms of glare were not significantly correlated with epco scores or with VA. Visual acuity in PCO eyes was better correlated with perceived disabilities and satisfaction with vision than VA in eyes with cataract.

Conclusions:  There was a significant correlation between epco scores and VA and between epco scores and Catquest. Consequently, the morphological method was related to the self‐assessed visual function. Patients with PCO seemed to have more disturbed visual function, as defined by Catquest, than cataract patients with the same VA.
Longterm incidence of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and survival in a defined population undergoing standardized phacoemulsification surgery
Authors: Boberg‐Ans Gøril , Henning Vibeke , Villumsen Jørgen , La Cour Morten
Published: June 2006

Purpose:  To determine the longterm risk of pseudophakic retinal detachment (PRD) in a defined population undergoing standardized phacoemulsification surgery at a single centre.

Design:  We carried out a register‐based, retrospective, consecutive, uncontrolled study. All 6352 eyes that underwent cataract surgery at our institution during the years 1996–1998 were included in the study. The main outcome measure was the incidence of surgery for PRD.

Methods:  Cataract‐operated eyes were identified by a search in the local hospital registry. Eyes that subsequently underwent surgery for PRD were identified by a search in the Danish Patients Registry (LPR). Follow‐up ended by 31 December 2003. Eyes in patients who died before that date were censored.

Results:  The 8‐year cumulated incidence of PRD after phacoemulsification was 0.93 per eye (95% CI 0.65–1.33). This is 8.77 (95% CI 7.12–10.72) times higher than expected in eyes that do not undergo cataract surgery. The incidence rate for retinal detachment was significantly higher in pseudophakic eyes than in the background population for at least 6 years after surgery. Patient mortality was slightly increased for men, but no different for women from that of the background population.

Conclusion:  For eyes undergoing phacoemulsification surgery, the cumulated incidence of PRD continues to increase for at least 8 years after surgery. Comparison of the cumulated incidence of PRD between different studies requires equal lengths of follow‐up.
Automated lamellar therapeutic keratoplasty (ALTK) in the treatment of anterior to mid‐stromal corneal pathologies
Authors: Vajpayee Rasik B. , Vasudendra Nagaraj , Titiyal Jeewan S. , Tandon Radhika , Sharma Namrata , Sinha Rajesh
Published: June 2006

Purpose:  To evaluate the efficacy of automated lamellar therapeutic keratoplasty (ALTK) in the treatment of anterior to mid‐stromal corneal pathologies.

Methods:  A prospective clinical study was undertaken in 15 eyes of 15 patients who underwent ALTK using the ALTK System® (Moria/Microtek Inc., Doylestown, Pennsylvania, USA). The parameters evaluated were uncorrected and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), keratometry, pachymetry, contrast sensitivity, glare acuity, intraoperative surgical time and complications, postoperative time to epithelialization, graft clarity and postoperative complications.

Results:  The mean surgical time was 46 ± 9 mins. The BCVA, contrast sensitivity and glare acuity significantly improved at 6 months postoperatively. The mean decimal BCVA was 0.08 ± 0.03 preoperatively, which improved to 0.33 ± 0.30 at 6 months, when 11 eyes had BCVA ≥ 6/18. The median epithelialization time was 3 days (range 1–10 days).

Conclusions:  Automated lamellar therapeutic keratoplasty appears to be safe and effective for diseases affecting the anterior to mid‐stroma of the cornea.
Non‐penetrating deep sclerectomy for glaucoma associated with Sturge–Weber syndrome
Authors: Audren François , Abitbol Olivia , Dureau Pascal , Hakiki Salim , Orssaud Christophe , Bourgeois Marie , Pierre‐Kahn Alain , Bodemer Christine , Dufier Jean‐Louis
Published: June 2006

Purpose:  To report the results of non‐penetrating deep sclerectomy (NPDS) in the treatment of glaucoma associated with Sturge–Weber syndrome (SWS).

Methods:  We carried out a retrospective case series analysis of patients who underwent NPDS for glaucoma associated with SWS between 1998 and 2003. The control of glaucoma after NPDS, the results of surgery on intraocular pressure, the need for additional medical treatment and surgical complications were studied.

Results:  Twelve eyes of nine patients, aged 11 days to 24 years, underwent filtering surgery: nine NPDS procedures were performed and three surgical procedures had to be converted to trabeculectomy because NPDS was not technically achievable. The mean follow‐up after surgery was 26.3 months (range 6–48 months). Two trabeculectomies were complicated by choroidal effusion, which resolved in both cases. Good control of glaucoma was obtained during follow‐up.

Conclusions:  Non‐penetrating deep sclerectomy is transiently efficient in the treatment of SWS‐associated glaucoma. Further studies of NPDS for the treatment of glaucoma associated with SWS are warranted.
Serum levels of sCD137 (4‐1BB) ligand are prognostic factors for progression in acute myeloid leukemia but not in non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma
Authors: Hentschel N. , Krusch M. , Kiener P. A. , Kolb H. J. , Salih H. R. , Schmetzer H. M.
Published: June 2006

Abstract:  CD178 (Fas/APO‐1 ligand) and CD137 ligand (CD137L) have previously been described in sera of patients with various malignancies and play an important role in the pathogenesis of various diseases. Recently, we demonstrated that low levels of soluble (s) CD137L and high levels of sCD178 correlate significantly with a long progression free survival in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). In this study, we correlated sCD137L and sCD178 levels in sera of 42 samples of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and 46 samples of patients with non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) with stages, subtypes, and the clinical course of the diseases and determined cut‐off values with maximum probability for significant differentiation between cases with higher/lower probability for progress free survival. In contrast to patients with MDS, surprisingly no correlation between sCD178 levels and different subtypes and stages or with prognosis in AML or NHL were observed. Regarding sCD137L, NHL‐patients displayed lower levels compared with AML. Statistically significant higher median levels of sCD137L are present in patients with undifferentiated AML (M1/M2, 1470 pg/mL), poor cytogenetic risk (288 pg/mL) and higher levels of BM‐blasts (186 pg/mL) compared with patients with monocytoid AML (M4/M5, 89 pg/mL), intermediate cytogenetic risk (59 pg/mL) and lower levels of BM‐blasts (14 pg/mL) respectively. Furthermore, in AML patients sCD137L levels correlate significantly with the probabilities to achieve complete remission (CR), stay in CR or with progress of the disease. Taken together, our data demonstrate that sCD137L can be used as a prognostic factor not only in MDS but also in AML.
In vivo and in vitro evidence of dermal fibroblasts influence on human epidermal pigmentation
Authors: Cario‐André Muriel , Pain Catherine , Gauthier Yvon , Casoli Vincent , Taieb Alain
Published: June 2006

Using chimeric human epidermal reconstructs, we previously demonstrated that epidermal pigmentation is dependent upon the phototype of melanocytes. We report here several lines of experimental evidence for dermal modulation of human epidermal pigmentation. First, phototype II–III epidermal reconstructs grafted on the back of immunotolerant Swiss nu/nu mice developed a patchy pigmentation dependent on the presence of colonizing human or mouse fibroblasts. Similarly, human white Caucasoid split‐thickness skin xenografted on the same mouse strain became black within 3 months and histochemistry revealed a phototype VI pattern of melanin distribution. In vitro, human fibroblasts colonizing human dead de‐epidermized dermis (DDD) induced a decrease in epidermal pigmentation whereas mouse (Swiss nu/nu) fibroblasts increased epidermal pigmentation. Conditioned medium from mice (Swiss nu/nu) fibroblasts also increased pigmentation whereas conditioned medium from human fibroblasts had no significant effect. Lastly, epidermal reconstructs made with normal or vitiligo keratinocytes and/or normal or vitiligo melanocytes from the same donor grown on DDD originating from several donors of the same clinical phototype did not pigment similarly and no specific dermal influence was noted for vitiligo. Thus, fibroblast secretion and acellular dermal connective tissue itself significantly influence melanocyte proliferation and melanin distribution/degradation. Our study suggests that murine fibroblasts are more potent than human fibroblasts in secreting soluble factors which can act directly on pigmentation, such as SCF, or activate keratinocytes to produce basement membrane proteins or melanogenic factors.
Melatonin in Glycyrrhiza uralensis: response of plant roots to spectral quality of light and UV‐B radiation
Authors: Afreen F. , Zobayed S. M. A. , Kozai T.
Published: June 2006

Abstract:  Melatonin (N‐acetyl‐5‐methoxytryptamine) is known to be synthesized and secreted by the pineal gland in vertebrates. Evidence for the occurrence of melatonin in the roots of Glycyrrhiza uralensis plants and the response of this plant to the spectral quality of light including red, blue and white light (control) and UV‐B radiation (280–315 nm) for the synthesis of melatonin were investigated. Melatonin was extracted and quantified in seed, root, leaf and stem tissues and results revealed that the root tissues contained the highest concentration of melatonin; melatonin concentrations also increased with plant development. After 3 months of growth under red, blue and white fluorescent lamps, the melatonin concentrations were highest in red light exposed plants and varied depending on the wavelength of light spectrum in the following order red ≫ blue ≥ white light. Interestingly, in a more mature plant (6 months) melatonin concentration was increased considerably; the increments in concentration were X4, X5 and X3 in 6‐month‐old red, blue and white light exposed (control) plants, respectively. The difference in melatonin concentrations between blue and white light exposed (control) plants was not significant. The concentration of melatonin quantified in the root tissues was highest in the plants exposed to high intensity UV‐B radiation for 3 days followed by low intensity UV‐B radiation for 15 days. The reduction of melatonin under longer periods of UV‐B exposure indicates that melatonin synthesis may be related to the integrated (intensity and duration) value of UV‐B irradiation. Melatonin in G. uralensis plant is presumably for protection against oxidative damage caused as a response to UV irradiation.
Melatonin prevents neutrophil‐mediated oxidative injury in Escherichia coli‐induced pyelonephritis in rats
Authors: Şener Göksel , Tuğtepe Halil , Velioğlu‐Öğünç Ayliz , Çetinel Şule , Gedik Nursal , Yeğen Berrak Ç.
Published: June 2006

Abstract:  Regarding the mechanisms of renal scarring in pyelonephritis, several hypotheses have been put forward, among which oxidative stress is prominent. The present study investigated the possible protective effect of melatonin treatment against Escherichia coli‐induced oxidative injury and scarring in renal tissue. For this purpose, 0.1 mL E. coli (ATCC 25922; 1010 colony‐forming units/mL) or saline was injected directly into the renal parenchyma of Wistar rats. Pyelonephritic rats were treated with either saline or melatonin (10 mg/kg) intraperitoneally. Twenty‐four hours or 1 wk after E. Coli injection, rats were decapitated and trunk blood samples were collected for BUN, creatinine, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) determination. In kidney samples, histological analysis was performed, and malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) levels, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and collagen contents were measured. Formation of reactive oxygen species was monitored using a chemiluminescence (CL) technique. Escherichia Coli inoculation caused a significant reduction in renal GSH levels, which was accompanied by significant increases in MDA levels, MPO activity, CL levels and collagen content of the renal tissues (P < 0.05–0.001). Similarly, serum TNF‐α and, LDH, BUN and creatinine levels were elevated in the pyelonephritic rats when compared with control animals. Melatonin treatment reversed all these biochemical indices, as well as histopathological alterations induced by acute pyelonephritis. The protective effects of melatonin can be ascribed to its ability to inhibit neutrophil infiltration, to balance the oxidant–antioxidant status, and to regulate the generation of inflammatory mediators, suggesting a future role for melatonin in the treatment of acute pyelonephritis.