bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and characterization of novel tetranucleotide microsatellite DNA markers for the spotted salamander, Ambystoma maculatum
Authors: Julian S. E. , King T. L. , Savage W. K.
Published: March 2003

Fifteen tetranucleotide microsatellite loci were identified and characterized for spotted salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum) collected from three vernal pools in the south‐eastern USA. These markers revealed a high degree of genetic diversity (7–32 alleles per locus), heterozygosity (31.6–86.3%) and allelic heterogeneity (91% of comparisons were statistically significant). Considerable differentiation among populations was observed as genetic distances (chord) ranged between 0.50 and 0.65, and all FST values (0.08–0.14) were statistically significant. Moreover, genotypic assignment tests correctly classified all individuals to their respective collection. These markers should prove useful for investigating fine‐scale population structure and mating system.
Isolation of microsatellite loci in artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L. var. scolymus)
Authors: Acquadro A. , Portis E. , Lanteri S.
Published: March 2003

We report the development of nine microsatellite markers in globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L. var. scolymus). Four markers were obtained from sequences available in GenBank and five were isolated using a biotin/streptavidin capture technique for (CA)n and (CT)n motifs directly from artichoke genomic DNA. Polymorphism was explored in 15 artichoke accessions that represent the genetic variation within cultivated varietal types. Inter‐specific amplification was tested using cultivated cardoon (C. cardunculus L. var. altilis DC.) and wild cardoon (C. cardunculus L. var. sylvestris Lam.). Primers and conditions for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of detected loci are described.
Isolation of microsatellite markers in Cannabis sativa L. (marijuana)
Authors: Gilmore S. , Peakall R.
Published: March 2003

We have identified 15 variable microsatellite loci in Cannabis sativa. In 48 samples from five fibre crop seed accessions, we detected an average of 10 alleles per locus (range 2–28) with mean heterozygosity of 0.68 (range 0.28–0.94). Significant genetic differentiation was found between accessions (FST = 0.12, P < 0.001). These markers have utility for characterizing genetic diversity in cultivated and naturalized Cannabis populations.
Nail beauty therapy: an attractive enhancement or a potential hazard?
Authors: Baran Robert
Published: March 2003

Summary Nail coatings which harden upon evaporation and coatings that polymerize may produce some reactions at the site of application to the nail itself, and distant reactions when small amounts of nail cosmetics are transferred by the hand to other areas of the skin.

Nail cosmetic hazards may be occupational, or accidental, especially in children. Individuals wearing artificial nails tend to wear their nails longer, and are more careful about their nails when washing their hands. The sanitary conditions for the application of artificial nails are therefore paramount in preventing nail infections.
Ethics, empathy and storytelling in professional development
Authors: Fairbairn Gavin J.
Published: March 2003

Story forms a large part of the lives we lead. In this article, I consider some ways in which storytelling can be used to develop empathy and understanding in practitioners of the caring professions. En route, I introduce the distinction between true and real stories, discuss the importance of hypothetical stories in modern moral philosophy and show how storytelling can contribute to the development of thinking about practice. I also offer reasons for my view that empathy is central to skilled and ethical caring and touch on some ethical issues, including the apparent seriousness with which the value of confidentiality is upheld within the caring professions.
Why become a professional? Experiences of care‐giving and the decision to enter social work or nursing education
Authors: Parker Jonathan , Merrylees Sue
Published: March 2003

This paper examines the care‐giving experiences of three students undertaking professional education in nursing and social work and the influence these experiences had on career choice. The literature concerning social work and nursing as a career choice is reviewed. The literature indicates that career choice and professional education and training is influenced by prior experience of emotional and traumatic events within the family or close living environment, as well as a sense of idealism and altruism. A rationale for employing a biographical approach to examining reasons for wanting to train as a nurse or social worker is presented. The importance of student biographies in the contemporary world of health and social care education is discussed. Paying attention to the biographies of care‐giving can add important safeguards to professional suitability and can help plan learning within the context of widening participation to higher education.
Improving pain management through interprofessional education: evaluation of a pilot project
Authors: Carr Eloise C. J. , Brockbank Katrina , Barrett Richard F.
Published: March 2003

A collaborative project between a district hospital and a local university resulted in a senior lecturer being seconded 2 days per week to facilitate the continued improvement in pain management. The rationale for this collaboration was to explore the utilization of innovative teaching methods to deliver education in practice and to develop further research in relation to pain management. An interprofessional pain steering group (IPSG) was established with representation from several services (acute pain, chronic pain, palliative care, physiotherapy, etc.). This group identified several objectives, one of which related to the improvement of pain management through interprofessional education based on the findings from previous audit work. This paper reports on the provision of interprofessional education in pain management and on the evaluation of the impact of this on patient outcomes and practitioner learning. The successes and challenges of this endeavour are discussed.
Annual productivity and individual female reproductive success in a Great Bustard Otis tarda population
Authors: Morales Manuel B. , Alonso Juan C. , Alonso Javier
Published: March 2003

The reproductive success of Great Bustards Otis tarda in north‐western Spain was studied between 1987 and 1998, both at the population (c. 700 adult females breeding in our study area) and the individual level (sample of 32 marked females). Overall productivity was low, with a population mean of only 0.14 chicks reared per adult female, and an average breeding success of 0.15 chicks per year in the sample of marked females, but interannual variability was high (0.04–0.29). Population productivity was positively correlated with winter (October–March) precipitation prior to each breeding season, and negatively correlated with the number of days of rain during the hatching period. High annual productivity resulted from a high proportion of females rearing two chicks. Reproductive success was higher in females older than 6 years than in younger birds. The proportion of females in the marked sample that failed in breeding after having bred successfully the previous season was significantly higher than the proportion of those that did not. Finally, females with a higher than average breeding success tended to breed successfully in years of both low and high population productivity, whereas those with lower than average breeding success did so only in years of high productivity.
The migration route and behaviour of Eastern Curlews Numenius madagascariensis
Authors: Driscoll Peter V. , Ueta Mutsuyuki
Published: March 2003

Eastern Curlews Numenius madagascariensis were satellite‐tracked onto breeding grounds in north‐eastern Russia from south‐eastern Queensland over a distance of 12 000 km. They made initial non‐stop, long distance flights across the Western Pacific Ocean towards the coastlines of China and Korea followed by shorter flights, over a period of more than a month. The return journey involved a major flight‐leg as well, south from the Yellow Sea region. Many birds attempted to migrate but returned to the non‐breeding grounds over periods of up to several months. Islands of the Western Pacific region, the southern coastline of New Guinea and north‐eastern coastline of Australia are important, particularly for birds that stop migrating. Eastern Curlews that stopped migrating generally survived, which suggests that the species has adapted to deal with adverse conditions en route and/or a physical inability to complete the migration. Such a capacity is perhaps characteristic of a large wader with low annual mortality.
Population dynamics and reproduction of Northern Lapwings Vanellus vanellus in a meadow restoration area in central Sweden
Authors: Berg Åke , Jonsson Magnus , Lindberg Thore , Källebrink Karl‐Gunnar
Published: March 2003

To investigate the effectiveness of a meadow restoration programme, we studied the relationships between population changes and environmental changes, return rates and hatching success in a population of Northern Lapwings Vanellus vanellus. The study was performed on mixed farmland (59 km2) in central Sweden, an area that underwent extensive meadow restoration between 1985 and 1994. The study included more than 2600 nests, supplemented with observations of 127 individually colour‐ringed Northern Lapwings. The breeding population varied (2.7–5.3 pairs/km2), but showed no significant trend with time. The population increased in years with high spring flooding levels. Population size was unrelated to demographic factors (e.g. hatching success the previous year (14–50%), and return rate). Lapwings moved considerably between years and their nest site fidelity was unrelated to previous hatching success or other factors, suggesting that changes in habitat quality and migration between populations were important in regulating population size. Recent extensive meadow restoration did not seem to aid the Northern Lapwing population; birds continued nesting on tillage even though most nests were destroyed by farming activities. A relatively high relaying frequency improved hatching success, which was still lowest in the most preferred habitats (spring sown crops, total hatching success c. 30%). The few Northern Lapwings breeding in the least preferred habitats (meadows and cultivated grassland) had a better hatching success (> 70% total hatching success), suggesting that habitat selection was not determined by hatching success. From these results, recommendations are made for the management of Northern Lapwing (and associated species) populations on farmland.
Correlations between body size, defensive behaviour and reproductive success in male Little Blue Penguins Eudyptula minor: implications for female choice
Authors: Miyazaki Masamine , Waas Joseph R.
Published: March 2003

Field studies exploring relationships among body size, defensive behaviour (including vocalizations) and reproductive success in male Little Blue Penguins Eudyptula minor were conducted to identify behavioural and physical attributes that might provide females or opponents with information on male quality. Head length provided a simple estimator of body size in both sexes. Nests defended by large males produced eggs and chicks earlier in the breeding season, and contained chicks that grew more quickly than chicks in nests defended by small males. In contrast, female body size did not affect any of the reproductive parameters we measured. The pitch of male defensive calls varied significantly with male size, so females (or opponents) could potentially gauge male size by assessing the calls. Large males were also more likely to respond vocally to simulated nest intrusions. As a result, by ‘keeping company’ with prospective partners early in the breeding season, females can obtain information about males that would allow them to select better partners and improve their own reproductive potential.
A computing scheme for determination of retinal contour from peripheral refraction, keratometry and A‐scan ultrasonography
Authors: Dunne Mark C. M.
Published: March 2003

In this paper a method is described in which retinal contour is derived from measurements of peripheral refraction, keratometry and A‐scan ultrasonography. Theoretical aspects are discussed first, followed by a closer examination of the computing scheme and its evaluation. Evaluation involved investigation of inherent errors arising from the computing scheme's methods of compensating for unmeasured human ocular complexities such as crystalline lens asphericity and gradient index optical structure, finite aperture pupils, ocular surface misalignment and toricity. It is found that computed retinal contours are little affected by these inherent errors.
Addition of obliquely crossed spherocylindrical lenses
Authors: Faria e Sousa Sidney J.
Published: March 2003

This paper presents a three‐step method for the addition of obliquely crossed spherocylinders. Contrary to other methods it does not require algorithms or complicated abstract concepts to secure the consistency of the results.
IOP in myopic children: the relationship between increases in IOP and the development of myopia
Authors: Edwards M. H. , Brown B.
Published: March 2003

Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured at yearly intervals, from age 7 to 9 years, in 106 Chinese children. The sample had been selected from newborn children for participation in a growth and nutrition study, and all children remaining in this study took part in the myopia study. As part of an ongoing prospective study to examine factors which may be associated with the development of myopia, IOP was compared according to whether the subjects had become myopic or remained non‐myopic during the time‐frame of the study. During the course of the study 13 children became myopic. There was no difference in the IOP of the incident compared with control groups at age 7 years. The IOP of the incident group was higher following onset of myopia than it was prior to onset whereas there was no difference in the IOP of the control groups over the same period. A high IOP therefore follows the onset of myopia and cannot cause myopia. It is still unknown whether or how myopia causes a high IOP.
A new stereotest: the double two rod test
Authors: Fan Wallace C. S. , Brown Brian , Yap Maurice K. H.
Published: March 2003

A new stereoacuity test, the double two rod test, uses a two‐alternative forced‐choice (2AFC) paradigm. The subject's task is to state which pair of rods, the left or the right, contains depth information. The test gives repeatable results; comparison between the depth threshold measured binocularly and monocularly suggests that monocular cues, if present, provide only poor depth information, compared to the depth information arising from binocular disparity. As part of an investigation of stereoacuity and ageing, we tested stereoacuity as a function of viewing time and the number of comparisons made between the two pairs of rods. Stereoacuity was significantly reduced for viewing times less than 3 s while longer viewing times did not improve stereoacuity. The number of comparisons made between the two pairs of rods had no effect on stereoacuity.
Forward and backward light scatter measurements in the assessment of corneal oedema
Authors: Matilla Teresa , Douthwaite William , Hurst Mark
Published: March 2003

As the cornea swells it loses its transparency, thereby increasing both forward and backward light scatter. The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in corneal transparency by means of scatter assessment. Both forward and backward light scatter measurements were obtained from 18 normal corneas, before and after the induction of corneal oedema with sealed scleral lenses. Forward light scatter was measured at 3.5, 10 and 28 degrees, using a portable straylight meter as developed by van den Berg. Backward light scatter measurements were obtained by computerised linear scanning densitometry of Scheimpflug images using the Oxford Modular Cataract Image Analysis System. After the scleral lenses were worn, forward light scatter values increased significantly at all the three angles (3.5°: F1,17 = 65.69, P < 0.001; 10° : F1,17 = 37.30, P < 0.001; 28°: F1,17 = 26.66, P < 0.001). Backward light scatter also increased significantly with the presence of corneal oedema (F1,17 = 3 4.80, P < 0.001). A significant correlation was found between the differences on forward light scatter recorded at the different angles. However, no significant correlation was found between the increase in forward and backward scatter recorded by the two techniques. We conclude that both forward and backward light scatter can be good indicators of corneal transparency.
Visual performance in soft contact lens wear. Is there a compromise?
Authors: Mitchell E. S. , Douthwaite W. A.
Published: March 2003

Purpose: A six‐month study was performed comparing a group of contact lens wearers against a group of age and refraction matched non‐contact lens wearers.

Methods: Visual performance was measured by log MAR visual acuity (VA) and Pelli‐Robson contrast sensitivity (CS). Contact lens wearers were all established wearers of at least six months. Patients were refitted with Hydron Omniflex lenses. The care regimen was Alcon Opti‐free. Visual performance was measured every eight weeks with lenses in situ and any necessary over‐refraction, lenses were removed and visual performance was re‐measured with a full spectable refraction. The order of testing was randomised. In addition, the non‐lens wearers were also assessed every eight weeks.

Results: Results suggest that for VA there is no significant change in visual performance with time in the contact lens wearers (F2.40 = 2.031,P > 0.1) or the non‐lens wearers (F2.18 = 0.863, P > 0.1). In addition, there is no significant difference in VA when comparing spectacle VA in the contact lens group against contact lens VA (F1.20 = 0.79, P > 0.1). There is also no significant difference between VA in the non‐lens wearing group and either spectacle VA (F1.29 = 0.877, P > 0.1) or CL VA in the lens wearing group (F1.29 = 1.646, P > 0.1). When CS is measured there is again no significant change with time for lens wearers (F2.40 = 1.771, P > 0.1) or non‐lens wearers (F2.18 = 0.053, P > 0.1). There is, however, a significant drop in visual performance when comparing spectacle CS in the contact lens group against contact lens CS (F1.20 = 18.835, P = 0.0003) and non‐wearers against contact lens CS (F1.29 = 7.719, P = 0.009). There is no significant difference between CS in non‐lens wearers and spectacle CS in lens wearers (F1.29 = 0.982,P > 0.1).

Conclusion: These results suggest that even though visual performance measured by VA or CS in contact lens wearers does not deteriorate with lens age. CS is significantly worse when wearing lenses. It is also significantly worse than a non‐lens wearing population. As refractive error was accounted for in the protocol this is not the reason for the significant difference. Other causes of the significant reduction in performance may be lens movement, lens surface drying or lens deposition.

Acknowledgements: We thank Hydron UK Ltd and Alcon for help in the form of contact lenses and solutions. Financial support was received from the Visual Research Trust.
The burgeoning presbyopic population: an emerging 20th century phenomenon
Authors: Pointer Jonathan S.
Published: March 2003

Improved social welfare in the wake of the ‘industrial revolution’ set in train in mid‐18th century Britain an escalation in population numbers which has been sustained through to the end of the 20th century—and is projected to continue into the 21st century. However, within the total population envelope the percentage‐contribution of certain age groupings shows a striking pattern when viewed across nearly five centuries. For 350 years, up to the end of the 19th century, the over–40 year old section of the population comprised a steady 25% of the total population count of England (latterly England and Wales): over the same period the 60–plus section contributed nearly 10% of the total. Throughout the ten decades of the 20th century these proportions have both increased, such that with the arrival of the next millennium a two‐fold increase in the percentage‐contribution of both age groups will have occurred: nearly one‐half (over 24 million) of the population of England andWales will be aged over 40, or more than one‐fifth (around 11 million) will be aged over 60 years.

This ‘ageing’ of the general population will have economic and socio‐medical implications both at home and abroad, since this is a demographic trend which is present/projected in all countries of the European Union (as presently constituted). The future practise of optometry will certainly be touched by these changes. Naturally a potential increase in demand for presbyopic refractive corrections from the growing volume of aged 40–plus individuals is possible. However of greater significance is the certain increase in age‐related oculo‐visual problems arising from within the growing aged 60‐plus population. Greater acknowledgement and utilisation of the optometrist's skills, currently being reappraised through the profession's participation in ‘collaborative care’ schemes, may indicate the direction in which optometry should move in the early 21st century to remain a valuable—and valued—health care profession.
Daylight simulators and colour vision tests
Authors: Dain Stephen J.
Published: March 2003

Our previous studies have shown that the influence of the illuminating source used for colour vision examination on the intended function of the test is very test dependant, some being relatively unaffected by source characteristics while others can be significantly affected. The effects can even differ between the plates of one pseudo‐isochromatic plate test set. In addition, in previous studies we have considered a large range of sources on one test at a time. For this study the emphasis is on four fluorescent tube sources, all of which meet the requirements of the CIE method for assessing the quality of daylight simulators. The colour vision tests include sorting tests (the D‐15 tests [Standard, Lanthony Desat and Adams Desat]), the Lanthony New Colour Test and the FM100 Hue Test, pseudoisochromatic plate tests (Ishihara, Standard Pseudoisochromatic Plates Volume 1, Hahn New Colour Test and Lanthony Tritan Album) and a matching test (TCU Test). Two examples are quoted here. The tests were assessed on the basis of alignment of the colours of the tests to protanopic and deuteranopic confusion axes and, where appropriate, to the tritanopic confusion axis. The data and analysis indicate that the four fluorescent tubes are essentially equivalent.
The effect of spherical and other aberrations upon the modulation transfer of the defocussed human eye
Authors: Jansonius N. M. , Kooijman A. C.
Published: March 2003

Relative modulation transfer is defined as contrast sensitivity under blur normalised to contrast sensitivity at optimum focus. Measured relative modulation transfer exceeds relative modulation transfer as calculated for aberration free optics at higher spatial frequencies (>2 cpd). The contribution of spherical aberration to this discrepancy was studied. In the case of positive blur, spherical aberration increases relative modulation transfer for spatial frequencies of approximately 4 cpd and over. However, spherical aberration does not explain the entire difference between measured and calculated relative modulation transfer. Chromatic aberration does not provide a noticeable additional explanation. With negative blur, spherical aberration increases the relative modulation transfer much more. The effect of other monochromatic aberrations on relative modulation transfer is discussed.
The EyeSys videokeratoscopic assessment of apical radius and p‐value in the normal human cornea
Authors: Douthwaite W. A. , Hough T. , Edwards K. , Notay H.
Published: March 2003

The EyeSys videokeratoscope was used to assess the corneal topography in 98 subjects. Scatterplots of distance squared versus radius squared were plotted for the near horizontal and near vertical principal meridians of the two eyes. The regression lines allowed calculation of the surface apical radius and the p‐value. The group average apical radius was 7.93  mm (horizontal) and 7.78  mm (vertical). The group average p‐value was 0.76 (horizontal) and 0.82 (vertical). Both apical radius and p‐value were similar when comparing the two eyes for both the horizontal and the vertical meridians. The two meridians in a single eye, however, had different values for both apical radius and p‐value. Male apical radii were longer than those of females but the p‐values were the same. There is no apparent association between age and either apical radius or p‐value for the subjects used in this study. The asphericity of the cornea does not show any apparent association with corneal curvature in this group of subjects.
Paediatric community vision screening with combined optometric and orthoptic care: a 64‐month review
Authors: Donaldson Lisa A. , Karas Marek P. , Charles Angela E. , Adams Gillian G. W.
Published: March 2003

We report a new model of community‐based secondary vision screening and demonstrate that a high proportion of children can be effectively managed in such a clinic without referral to the hospital eye service (HES). We performed a 64‐month retrospective study of a secondary vision screening clinic providing the combined skills of an optometrist and orthoptist in a community setting. Particular attention was given to the diagnosis and management of children not referred to the HES. During this period, 1755 children were sent appointments and 74% (1300) attended the clinic. The community orthoptist and school nurses referred 53% of the patients and health visitors, general practitioners and community medical officers made 32% of the clinic referrals. Spectacles were prescribed for 41% of the children and 8% were prescribed patching. Sixteen per cent of the children were referred on to the HES. This model of care using the combined expertise of the orthoptist and optometrist is able to diagnose and manage the majority of children who have failed primary vision screening and avoids unnecessary referrals to the HES.
Crossed and uncrossed stereoacuity at distance and the effect from heterophoria
Authors: Lam Andrew K. C. , Tse Patrick , Choy Emily , Chung Magic
Published: March 2003

Background: Previous studies have found that crossed disparities give better stereoacuity than uncrossed. When near phoria is considered, exophores had a better crossed stereoacuity and esophores had a better uncrossed stereoacuity. The current study investigated the effect of heterophoria on distant crossed and uncrossed stereoacuity.

Methods: Seventy‐two subjects were recruited and their distant heterophoria measured. Heterophoria within two prism dioptres was considered as orthophoric. Esophoric group had esophoria greater than two prism dioptres. Exophoric group had exophoria greater than two prism dioptres. There were 40 orthophores, 23 exophores and nine esophores. Their stereoacuity was measured with a three‐rod apparatus at 6 m.

Results: The mean crossed stereoacuity was 4.8″ and uncrossed stereoacuity was 7.2″ (t=−3.03, p < 0.01). The mean stereoacuity for orthophoric subjects was 5.31″, 6.02″ for exophores and 8.91″ for esophores. The distant crossed stereoacuity is better than uncrossed stereoacuity in all three groups but the difference is only significant for the exophores. Exophoric subjects demonstrated a significant difference between crossed (4.10″) and uncrossed (7.95″) stereoacuity.

Conclusions: Orthophores have the best stereoacuity, followed by exophores and esophores. Exophoric subjects have a better crossed than uncrossed stereoacuity. More esophoric subjects should be recruited to confirm the difference between crossed and uncrossed stereoacuity.
Sympathetic control of accommodation: evidence for inter‐subject variation
Authors: Gilmartin B. , Mallen E. A. H. , Wolffsohn J. S.
Published: March 2003

Autonomic innervation of ciliary smooth muscle is mediated principally by the parasympathetic nervous system and is supplemented by the sympathetic nervous system. Previous drug and nerve stimulation experiments on humans and animals have demonstrated that sympathetic innervation is inhibitory (via β‐2 adrenoceptors), relatively small, slow and augmented by concurrent levels of background parasympathetic activity. These characteristics are pertinent to the sympathetic system having a specific role in our ability to adapt successfully to sustained near vision tasks and, given the clear association between near vision and the onset and development of myopia, to a putative aetiological role in myopia development in pre‐disposed individuals. A fifth characteristic, namely the variation between individuals in access to an inhibitory sympathetic facility is therefore of particular interest. A novel method for continuous recording of accommodation, currently employed in a large sample longitudinal study of myopia in young adults, was used following topical instillation of non‐selective (timolol) and selective (betaxolol) sympathetic β‐adrenoceptor antagonists. Measures of post‐task accommodative hysteresis were taken with reference to the time‐course of regression of accommodation when open‐loop (Difference of Gaussian) conditions were immediately imposed following short (10 s) and long (3 min) duration far (0D) and near (3D above tonic level) tasks viewed through a Badal system. Data confirm earlier informal experimental observations that only one in three individuals are likely to have access to a sympathetic inhibitory facility during sustained near vision.
Neurotoxic effects of GABA‐transaminase inhibitors in the treatment of epilepsy: ocular perfusion and visual performance
Authors: Hosking Sarah L. , Roff Hilton Emma J.
Published: March 2003

AbstractVigabatrin is a GABA (γ‐aminobutyric acid) transaminase inhibitor that elicits an antiepileptic effect by enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain. Vigabatrin has been previously associated with concentric peripheral visual field loss and visual electrophysiological abnormalities. Recently, visual function deficits of the central retina have been identified in a proportion of patients receiving vigabatrin; these include disturbances in colour perception, contrast sensitivity and short‐wavelength automated perimetry. Consequently, it is suggested that vigabatrin‐associated retinal toxicity is diffuse inducing subtle central visual dysfunction and more severe peripheral visual defects. Reductions in cerebral blood flow and cerebral metabolic rate for glucose occur in epilepsy patients receiving antiepileptic drug therapy. Despite the known cerebral haemodynamic alterations in epilepsy and the visual consequences of vigabatrin therapy, ocular blood flow has only recently been investigated in this group. We present findings from a series of novel investigations that identify compromised retinal microvascular perfusion and pulsatile ocular blood flow (POBF) in epilepsy patients. The reduction in POBF was exacerbated in epilepsy patients treated with vigabatrin compared to conventionally treated epilepsy patients. A number of theories are presented to explain compromised ocular blood flow in vigabatrin treated epilepsy patients, and the possibility of a GABAergic mechanism of toxicity is discussed.
The effect of coloured filters on the rate of reading in an adult student population
Authors: Evans Bruce J. W. , Joseph Florence
Published: March 2003

Meares–Irlen Syndrome is characterised by visual stress (visual discomfort) and visual perceptual distortions that can be alleviated by individually prescribed coloured filters. The benefit from coloured filters can be demonstrated with the Wilkins Rate of Reading Test (WRRT). Previous research using individually prescribed coloured overlays (sheets of plastic placed on a page) found that between one‐fifth and one‐third of unselected school‐children show a significant (> 5%) improvement in their rate of reading with their chosen overlay. This 5% cut‐off has good sensitivity and specificity for predicting those children who will continue to voluntarily use their overlay for a sustained period. Previous research has concentrated on children, and we sought to investigate the immediate effect of overlays on rate of reading in an adult population. Subjects were 113 unselected university students who answered a symptom questionnaire and were tested with the Wilkins Intuitive Overlays and WRRT. Some symptoms were common: 73% reported sore or tired eyes when reading and 40% reported four to 12 headaches a year. One hundred of the subjects chose an overlay as improving their immediate perception of text. These subjects were significantly more likely to report perceptual distortions and visual discomfort on viewing text than subjects who did not choose an overlay. The 100 subjects read 3.8% faster with the overlay than without any overlay (p < 0.00001), whereas the 13 subjects who did not choose an overlay read 1.7% slower with a placebo overlay than without (p = 0.37). Of the subjects who chose an overlay, 38% read more than 5% faster with the overlay and 2% read more than 25% faster. These results are comparable with those obtained for children. We conclude that Meares–Irlen Syndrome is likely to be as common in adults as it is in children.
Reaction times as an index of visual conspicuity when driving at night
Authors: Plainis S. , Murray I. J.
Published: March 2003

Abstract Conspicuity refers to the visibility of objects that are either close to threshold or viewed in a cluttered environment. Conventional, threshold‐based tests of vision are unlikely to be related to target visibility, because visual systems behave differently under supra‐threshold and close‐to‐threshold conditions, or when low luminance levels are used. In these experiments, Reaction Times (RTs) are tested under a wide range of contrasts, luminances and spatial frequencies commonly encountered in the real world. We show that RTs are closely related to sensitivity and can therefore provide a method of measuring supra‐threshold visual performance. The data are interpreted in terms of visual performance when driving, where a reduction in target visibility leads to increases in processing time.
Effect of defocus on contrast sensitivity in myopes and non‐myopes
Authors: Radhakrishnan H. , Pardhan S. , Calver R. I. , O'Leary D. J.
Published: March 2003

Purpose:  Myopes have altered accommodative responses when compared with non‐myopes. We examined the contribution of the optical input to this known altered accommodative response by assessing the defocused contrast sensitivity function in myopes and emmetropes.

Methods:  Contrast sensitivity (CS) to 20 spatial frequencies was measured under cycloplegia, with up to ±3 D of defocus, in myopes and non‐myopes. The differences in the contrast sensitivity functions as a result of defocus were analysed for the different spatial frequencies in the two groups. In addition, the optimum defocus at which peak contrast sensitivity occurred was compared between the two groups.

Results:  The loss in contrast sensitivity with defocus was less symmetrical with positive and negative defocus in the myopic group, although there was no latent accommodation left following cycloplegia. Defocus decreased contrast sensitivity symmetrically in non‐myopes. The magnitude of decrease in CS was dependent on the spatial frequency tested, and was significantly different in myopes and non‐myopes at 3 and 6 c deg−1.

Conclusions:  Differences in the effects of blur on CS exist between myopes and non‐myopes. Existing models of spherical aberration may explain this asymmetry in positive and negative defocus in myopes.
The Role of Carotenoids in Human Health
Authors: Johnson Elizabeth J.
Published: March 2003

Dietary carotenoids are thought to provide health benefits in decreasing the risk of disease, particularly certain cancers and eye disease. The carotenoids that have been most studied in this regard are β‐carotene, lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. In part, the beneficial effects of carotenoids are thought to be due to their role as antioxidants. β‐Carotene may have added benefits due its ability to be converted to vitamin A. Furthermore, lutein and zeaxanthin may be protective in eye disease because they absorb damaging blue light that enters the eye. Food sources of these compounds include a variety of fruits and vegetables, although the primary sources of lycopene are tomato and tomato products. Additionally, egg yolk is a highly bioavailable source of lutein and zeaxanthin. These carotenoids are available in supplement form. However, intervention trials with large doses of β‐carotene found an adverse effect on the incidence of lung cancer in smokers and workers exposed to asbestos. Until the efficacy and safety of taking supplements containing these nutrients can be determined, current dietary recommendations of diets high in fruits and vegetables are advised.
Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, dose‐ ranging study of granulocyte‐macrophage colony stimulating factor in patients with chronic venous leg ulcers
Authors: Da Costa Ricardo Marques , Jesus Fernando Miguel Ribeiro , Aniceto Cristina , Mendes Mateus
Published: March 2003

Chronic venous leg ulcers are a common ailment with no ideal treatment. Recent reports have shown granulocyte‐ macrophage colony stimulating factor to be of use in the healing of these chronic wounds. Therefore, we conducted a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study which enrolled 60 patients with chronic venous leg ulcers, whom we treated with placebo or with 200 or 400 μg of granulocyte‐macrophage colony stimulating factor by perilesional injections of the drug in four weekly treatment episodes. Observations were conducted at each treatment visit, at weeks 5, 9, 13, and six months after the inclusion in the protocol. The number of healed wounds in the placebo and the treated arms were significantly different (p= 0.05), with 4 of 21 (19%) in the first group having healed at week 13, as compared to 12 of 21 (57%) and 11 of 18 (61%), in the 200 μg and the 400 μg groups, respectively. There were only minor side‐effects attributable to the treatment, and the reobservation at 6 months showed that none of the treated ulcers recurred during that period. We conclude that granulocyte‐macrophage colony stimulating factor injected perilesionally may be a useful drug for the treatment of chronic venous leg ulcers. (WOUND REP REG 1999;7:17–25)
Prognostic value of markers of collagen remodeling in venous ulcers
Authors: Tarlton John F , Bailey Allen J , Crawford Elsa , Jones Dylan , Moore Keith , Harding Keith D
Published: March 2003

A 25 patient study was conducted into the relationship between markers of collagen metabolism in venous ulcer exudates and healing status, and their prognostic value in predicting healing performance. Wounds were sampled on at least 5 occasions over 12 months, the frequencies of which were determined by the need for clinic attendance. Specimens were taken from several sites on each ulcer using sterile preweighed filters. Wound margins were traced and sites recorded for each collection. Sample sites were evaluated for severity as improving, static, or deteriorating according to subsequent wound progression. Specimens were analyzed for levels of proenzyme and active forms of matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9, neutrophil elastase, and type I collagen C propeptide. There was an overall trend of greater expression of all markers with increasing severity of wound site, this being highly significant for pro‐matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (p= 0.006). For samples collected simultaneously from improving and deteriorating regions of the same wound, paired data analysis showed statistically significant differences for pro‐matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (p< 0.001), neutrophil elastase (p< 0.005) and activated matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (p< 0.05). Taken overall, these data show the potential of markers of collagen biochemistry as predictors of repair in venous ulcers; in particular pro‐matrix metalloproteinase‐9 and neutrophil elastase were found to be accurate prognostic indicators of subsequent healing.
Correlation between interleukin‐6 and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 in early wound healing in children
Authors: Pajulo Olli T. , Pulkki Kari J , Alanen Markku S. , Reunanen Mikko S. , Lertola Kalle K. , Mattila‐Vuori Armi I. , Viljanto Jouko A.
Published: March 2003

Interleukin‐6 and matrix metalloproteinase–9 concentrations in the wound fluid and their associations to cellular changes were determined in early wound healing. Wound healing of 75 children who underwent elective operations was studied with the Cellstick® device, which was inserted into the wound at the end of the operation and removed 3 or 24 hours post‐wounding. Differential counts of the wound cells and interleukin‐6 and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 concentrations in the wound fluid were analyzed. Interleukin‐6 and the matrix metalloproteinase‐9 concentrations increased in parallel (r = 0.81). The proportion of wound neutrophils increased (p < 0.0001) and lymphocytes decreased (p < 0.0001) between the observation times. The number of wound neutrophils had a strong correlation with both interleukin‐6 (adjusted R2 = 0.41, p < 0.0001) and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 concentrations (adjusted R2 = 0.37, p < 0.0001). The extracellular matrix degradation process of the early wound healing seems to be closely linked to the inflammatory response. Both of these measured markers are associated significantly with the neutrophil proportion in the wound.
Ischemia‐reperfusion injury in chronic pressure ulcer formation: A skin model in the rat
Authors: Peirce Shayn M , Skalak Thomas C , Rodeheaver George T
Published: March 2003

Most animal models of chronic pressure ulcers were designed to study only the role of ischemic injury in wound formation, often using single applications of constant pressure. The purpose of this study was to develop and characterize a reproducible model of cyclic ischemia‐reperfusion injury in the skin of small un‐anesthetized animals using clinically relevant pressures and durations. Ischemia‐reperfusion injury was created in a 9 cm2 region of dorsal skin in male rats by periodically compressing skin under a pressure of 50 mm Hg using an implanted metal plate and an overlying magnet. We varied the total number of ischemia‐reperfusion cycles, examined the effect of varying the frequency and duration of ischemic insult, and compared ischemia‐induced injury to ischemia‐reperfusion‐induced injury with this model. Tissue injury increased with an increasing number of total ischemia‐reperfusion cycles, duration of ischemia, and frequency of ischemia‐reperfusion cycles. This model generates reproducible ischemia‐reperfusion skin injury as characterized by tissue necrosis, wound thickness, leukocyte infiltration, transcutaneous oxygen tension, and wound blood flow. Using this model, the biological markers of ischemia‐reperfusion‐induced wound development can be studied and therapeutic interventions can be evaluated in a cost‐effective manner.
Cell, matrix changes and alpha‐smooth muscle actin expression in repair of the canine meniscus
Authors: Kambic Helen E , Futani Hiroyuki , Mcdevitt Cahir A
Published: March 2003

Processes in the repair of a crevice in the knee joint meniscus were investigated in 10 dogs. Two 2‐mm cylindrical plugs from each medial meniscus were removed, rendered acellular by freezing and thawing, and then reinserted into the meniscus. Dogs were euthanized at intervals of 3–52 weeks after surgery. The crevice between the plug and meniscus at 3 weeks after surgery was filled with a tissue containing α‐smooth muscle actin‐positive cells. One year after surgery, the plug had remodeled and was populated with spindle‐shaped and fibrochondrocyte‐like cells. The plug had an appearance intermediate between that of hyaline and fibrocartilage at this time, with a seamless integration in sites between the remodeled plug and the surrounding meniscus. α‐smooth muscle actin‐positive cells were concentrated at the interface of the remodeled plug and adjacent meniscus and at the surface of the plug. Therefore, remodeling of both the plug and meniscal tissue and the participation of α‐smooth muscle actin‐positive cells appear essential for integration of the plug into the adjacent meniscal tissue. Cells in the superficial zone of the meniscus seem to be active in the repair process. A change in both the phenotype of the cells and the quality of the matrix toward a more hyaline state appears to be an integral part of the remodeling process in the meniscus.
Use of a noncontact radiant heat bandage andStaphylococcus aureusdermal infections in an ovine model
Authors: Lee Eugene S , Caldwell Michael P , Talarico Paul J , Kuskowski Michael A , Santilli Steven M
Published: March 2003

Diabetic foot wounds are difficult to manage due to relative tissue ischemia and high rates of soft tissue infection. One potential treatment modality is the application of local radiant heat to promote wound healing and control infection. However, there are concerns that local heat will spread rather than control infection. We determined in this study the effect of a noncontact radiant heat bandage in controlling an ischemic soft tissue infection. Bilateral 10 × 15 cm dermal flaps were created in 15 adult range sheep. The flaps were inoculated intradermally with 107Staphylococcus aureusin 3 separate areas. The control flap was left open to air, while the treatment flap was covered with a noncontact radiant heat bandage and heated to 38 °C for three 1‐hour periods separated by two 1‐hour nonheating periods daily. After 10 days, both dermal flaps were harvested and sent for quantitative bacteriology. Due to operative complications, 12 of 15 sheep completed the study. The heated flap temperature was significantly higher 39.2 ± 0.5 °C (± SE) vs. the control flap 36.1 ± 0.1 °C (p< 0.00001) and bacterial counts were significantly smaller in the heated flap (median 1.0 × 107colony‐forming units per gm tissue) when compared to the control flap (median 7.5 × 107) (p= 0.001). This study shows the use of a noncontact radiant heat bandage controls ischemic soft tissue infections in an ovine model.
Differential expression and regulation of extracellular matrix‐associated genes in fetal and neonatal fibroblasts
Authors: Gosiewska Anna , Yi Chin‐Feng , Brown Laura J. , Cullen Breda , Silcock Derek , Geesin Jeffrey C.
Published: March 2003

Adults and neonates heal wounds by a repair process associated with scarring in contrast to scar‐free wound healing in the fetus. In the present study, human dermal fetal fibroblasts, representing the scarless phenotype, and neonatal human dermal fibroblasts, representing scar‐forming phenotype, were examined for potential differences that might influence the wound healing process. Fetal fibroblasts secreted four‐ to tenfold more latent transforming growth factor‐β1 depending on the cell strains compared. Fetal fibroblasts also produced higher levels of collagen protein and mRNA for most types of collagen (particularly type III) as compared to neonatal cells. Interestingly, mRNA for type V collagen was significantly reduced in fetal cells. Neonatal fibroblasts expressed significantly higher levels of latent transforming growth factor‐β1 binding protein mRNA, in contrast to almost undetectable levels in fetal fibroblasts. By ligand blot analysis, the levels of insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐3, a reported mediator of transforming growth factor‐β1 activity, was eightfold higher in neonatal versus fetal fibroblasts. Approximately 20 other mRNAs for various cytokines, matrix molecules and receptors were examined and found to be similar between the two cell types. The phenotypic differences described in this article may represent potentially important mechanisms to explain the differences in the quality of wound repair observed in fetal versus adult/neonatal tissues.