bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prior Ties, Shared Values and Cooperation in Public–Private Partnerships
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Wan Difang , Jia Ming , Gu Lihong
Published: June 2009

Based on social exchange theory, we propose and test the mediating role of formal and informal contracts in linking cooperation characteristics of prior ties and shared values among partners to cooperation success in the public—private partnership context. Results from a survey of 244 partners in public—private partnerships in the medical and healthcare fields in China revealed that both formal and informal contracts mediate the relationship between cooperation characteristics and cooperation success. We discuss the theoretical and managerial implications for public-private partnership research and practice with a specific focus on the Chinese context.
Evaluation of an oral function promotion programme for the independent elderly in Japan
Authors: Hakuta Chiyoko , Mori Chisato , Ueno Masayuki , Shinada Kayoko , Kawaguchi Yoko
Published: June 2009

Objectives:  The purpose of this study was to provide an oral function promotion programme for the independent elderly and evaluate the changes in oral health status and oral function.

Background:  Few studies have scientifically analysed and evaluated the effectiveness of oral function promotion programmes provided for the independent elderly.

Materials and methods:  The subjects were independent elderly females (mean age: 74.6 ± 6.3) recruited from senior citizens’ centres in Tokyo. The intervention group (n = 79) received a 3‐month oral function promotion programme, which included facial muscle and tongue exercises and salivary gland massages. The control group (n = 62) did not receive this programme.

Results:  In the intervention group, the tongue coating scores decreased and the organoleptic score of oral malodour fell. The amount of food debris in the oral cavity decreased and the tongue dryness improved. Furthermore, the salivary flow rate increased. The length of time for maintaining the tongue in the forward position increased from 11.2 s to 18.7 s, and the number of times for moving the tip of the tongue in a clockwise circular motion, counter‐clockwise circular motion and side‐to‐side motion within 30 s, increased from 14.5 to 20.6, 14.5 to 20.2, and 17.2 to 23.3 respectively. The number of times for movement of the lips significantly improved from 23.0 to 28.8 and the pronunciation of words was observed to be clearer.

Conclusion:  An oral function promotion programme was effective in improving the oral health status and oral function of an independent elderly population.
Oral health and oral implant status in edentulous patients with implant‐supported dental prostheses who are receiving long‐term nursing care
Authors: Isaksson Rita , Becktor Jonas P. , Brown Andrew , Laurizohn Christer , Isaksson Sten
Published: June 2009

Aim:  The aim of this study was to investigate oral health and oral implant status in a group of edentulous patients receiving long‐term residential or nursing care (LTC), all of whom had implant‐supported fixed or removable dental prostheses.

Material and methods:  A dental examination was performed on a total of 3310 patients receiving LTC and from this population 35 edentulous patients in whom dental implants had been placed formed the cohort for this study. All examinations were performed by a specialist in hospital dentistry and took place in the patients’ own home environment. Oral health was assessed by means of a protocol which evaluated oral hygiene status, possible oral mucosal inflammation and oral mucosal friction levels. Any problems with the implant‐supported prosthesis, implant mobility or other complications were also assessed. In addition, patients were asked about any oral symptoms and their usual oral hygiene procedures.

Results:  About half of the subjects (17/35) were registered as having no/mild inflammation with 18 of 35 having moderate/severe inflammation. Twelve of the 35 patients had good/acceptable oral hygiene and 23 of 35 had poor/bad oral hygiene. Twenty‐one of the 35 patients depended on help from the nursing personnel for their daily oral hygiene procedures. Obvious problems with food impaction were noted in 11 patients. A total of 229 implants had been placed in 43 jaws supporting 40 full arch‐fixed prostheses and three implant‐borne overdentures. There was no evidence of mobility or fractures of either the implants or the prostheses. Fifteen implants showed some exposed screw threads. Pus was exuding from one implant site and general peri‐implant gingival hyperplasia was noted in two patients. Twenty‐four patients were completely satisfied with the function and appearance of their implant‐supported prostheses. Two patients were totally dissatisfied.

Conclusion:  This study indicates that oral implant therapy can be considered as a treatment of choice in elderly patients, even if oral hygiene is sub‐optimal.
Oxygation Enhances Growth, Gas Exchange and Salt Tolerance of Vegetable Soybean and Cotton in a Saline Vertisol
Authors: Bhattarai Surya P. , Midmore David J.
Published: June 2009

Impacts of salinity become severe when the soil is deficient in oxygen. Oxygation (using aerated water for subsurface drip irrigation of crop) could minimize the impact of salinity on plants under oxygen‐limiting soil environments. Pot experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of oxygation (12% air volume/volume of water) on vegetable soybean (moderately salt tolerant) and cotton (salt tolerant) in a salinized vertisol at 2, 8, 14, 20 dS/m ECe. In vegetable soybean, oxygation increased above ground biomass yield and water use efficiency (WUE) by 13% and 22%, respectively, compared with the control. Higher yield with oxygation was accompanied by greater plant height and stem diameter and reduced specific leaf area and leaf Na+ and Cl− concentrations. In cotton, oxygation increased lint yield and WUE by 18% and 16%, respectively, compared with the control, and was accompanied by greater canopy light interception, plant height and stem diameter. Oxygation also led to a greater rate of photosynthesis, higher relative water content in the leaf, reduced crop water stress index and lower leaf water potential. It did not, however, affect leaf Na+ or Cl− concentration. Oxygation invariably increased, whereas salinity reduced the K+ : Na+ ratio in the leaves of both species. Oxygation improved yield and WUE performance of salt tolerant and moderately tolerant crops under saline soil environments, and this may have a significant impact for irrigated agriculture where saline soils pose constraints to crop production.
FILLING HISTORY OF THE MAUI B FIELD, NEW ZEALAND: NEW INFORMATION FROM OIL INCLUSIONS IN AUTHIGENIC MINERALS FROM THE OIL LEG IN THE MAUI‐B1 WELL F SANDS
Authors: Killops S. D. , Reyes A. , Funnell R. H.
Published: June 2009

A study of the molecular composition of oil inclusions in the Maui field, Taranaki Basin, New Zealand, reveals compositional variation in oil during the filling history of the Paleocene reservoir. The homogenization temperatures of aqueous inclusions in quartz suggest that oil in genetically associated inclusions first reached the proto‐Maui structure about 7.0–7.5 Ma ago, and that an effective trap was present at the Paleocene F‐sands level, given the abundant oil inclusions. This date coincides with what is believed to represent the early stages of structural development of the trap. The Maui or Pihama sub‐basin appears the most likely kitchen for this early charge. The quartz‐included oil exhibits a biomarker distribution with a slightly more marine‐influenced signature than an oil stain from the same core plug, oil included in authigenic feldspar, and oil‐production samples from the overlying Eocene D sands as well as the F sands. The greater similarity of the feldspar‐included oil to the production oils together with its possibly slightly lower maturity suggest that the feldspar inclusions formed later than the quartz inclusions. Otherwise, all oil samples examined (inclusion oil, oil / bitumen in sandstones and producible oil) are of similar maturity.
Hypocretin/orexin and narcolepsy: new basic and clinical insights
Authors: Nishino S. , Okuro M. , Kotorii N. , Anegawa E. , Ishimaru Y. , Matsumura M. , Kanbayashi T.
Published: June 2009

Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder, characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), cataplexy, sleep paralysis and hypnagogic hallucinations. Both sporadic (95%) and familial (5%) forms of narcolepsy exist in humans. The major pathophysiology of human narcolepsy has been recently discovered based on the discovery of narcolepsy genes in animals; the genes involved in the pathology of the hypocretin/orexin ligand and its receptor. Mutations in hypocretin‐related genes are rare in humans, but hypocretin ligand deficiency is found in a large majority of narcolepsy with cataplexy. Hypocretin ligand deficiency in human narcolepsy is probably due to the post‐natal cell death of hypocretin neurones. Although a close association between human leucocyte antigen (HLA) and human narcolepsy with cataplexy suggests an involvement of autoimmune mechanisms, this has not yet been proved. Hypocretin deficiency is also found in symptomatic cases of narcolepsy and EDS with various neurological conditions, including immune‐mediated neurological disorders, such as Guillain–Barre syndrome, MA2‐positive paraneoplastic syndrome and neuromyelitis optica (NMO)‐related disorder. The findings in symptomatic narcoleptic cases may have significant clinical relevance to the understanding of the mechanisms of hypocretin cell death and choice of treatment option. The discoveries in human cases lead to the establishment of the new diagnostic test of narcolepsy (i.e. low cerebrospinal fluid hypocretin‐1 levels for ‘narcolepsy with cataplexy’ and ‘narcolepsy due to medical condition’). As a large majority of human narcolepsy patients are ligand deficient, hypocretin replacement therapy may be a promising new therapeutic option, and animal experiments using gene therapy and cell transplantations are in progress.
PHOTOTAXIS IN EUGLENA—II. PHYSICAL FACTORS DETERMINING THE RATE OF PHOTOTACTIC RESPONSE*
Authors: Diehn Bodo , Tollin Gordon
Published: June 2009

Abstract— A novel approach to the measurement of phototaxis is described. It is based on recording the change in optical density which results when phototactic microorganisms collect in a beam of actinic light. The instrument allows the reproducible measurement of rate and degree of phototaxis. Using this device, we have carried out a systematic study of the influence of physical parameters on the phototactic response in Euglena gracilis, z‐strain. When Euglena is grown under conditions of artificial day/night cycles, circadian rhythms of phototactic ability are observed which parallel similar rhythms previously observed in the photosynthetic capacity of other algae. Maintenance of a light‐grown culture in complete darkness results in a loss of the phototactic response after about 72 hr. A dark‐grown culture develops chlorophyll and phototactic capacity simultaneously. These results suggest a relation between phototaxis and photosynthesis. From the results of light intensity dependence studies of phototaxis, it is concluded that the actinic light triggers rather than powers the response. The upper limit for the quantum threshold of phototaxis is estimated to be 100 quanta per photoreceptor at 460 mμ. Measurements of the dependence of phototaxis on the wavelength of the actinic light yield an action spectrum which agrees very well with the absorption spectrum of the eyespot pigments. The rate of phototaxis vs. temperature closely resembles the temperature dependence of enzymatic activity.
PENETRATION OF EPIDERMIS BY ULTRAVIOLET RAYS
Authors: Everett Mark Allen , Yeargers Edward , Sayre Robert M. , Olson Robert L.
Published: June 2009

Abstract— The u.v. transmission characteristics of various epidermal specimens prepared by various methods were measured by a recording spectrophotometer and integrating spheres. Although suction or stretch and heat produced the most satisfactory specimens, transmission data obtained from all specimens were similar and generally resembled that reported by previous investigators. The important contribution of forward scattering to total transmitted light was demonstrated. Significant numbers of u.v. photons have been shown to penetrate to the dermis and papillary capillaries. Erythema was produced in vivo by monochromatic light filtered through epidermal specimens after exposure of skin to the quantity of u.v. anticipated by these data.
BIPHOTONIC SENSITIZATION OF BOND SPLITTING IN ORGANIC MOLECULES AT 77°K: AN EPR STUDY
Authors: Terenin A. , Rylkov V. , Kholmogorov V.
Published: June 2009

Abstract— The elimination of CH3 radicals from (CH3)3COH and CH3I, studied with the EPR method, has been photosensitized at longer wave‐lengths by naphthalene, diphenyl, phenanthrene, the aromatic amines and ketones, and also by dyes. It has been shown that a successive absorption of two photons by the sensitizer is required, raising the sensitizer to a high triplet level, from which the total accumulated energy above the ground one is transferred to the frozen substrate at 77°K. For CH3I this is a triplet‐triplet energy transfer. The possibility has been demonstrated of decreasing the primary photon energy by using two sensitizers in succession and achieving a triplet‐triplet energy transfer between them.
LETHAL PHOTOSENSITIZATION OF MICROORGANISMS WITH LIGHT FROM A CONTINUOUS‐WAVE GAS LASER
Authors: Macmillan James D. , Maxwell W. Andrew , Chichester C. O.
Published: June 2009

Abstract— Eleven strains of microorganisms were examined for their susceptibility to death by irradiation with 21–30 mW of light at 6328 Å from a continuous‐wave gas laser. Washed cells of seven species were rapidly killed when irradiated aerobically in aqueous solutions of toluidine blue: Sarcina lutea (two strains), Escherichia coli, Chromobacterium violaceum, Arthrobacter atrocyanus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Rhodotorula glutinis. Cells remained viable when irradiated anaerobically in toluidine blue. This is not proof that oxygen is required for death since toluidine blue is subject to reduction to the leuco form under anaerobic conditions. None of the microbes tested, including cells of Bacillus cereus, Rhodospirillum rubrum, and Euglena gracilis, were killed in aerated suspensions without toluidine blue. Thus, it is unlikely that any strain has an endogenous photosensitizer capable of acting at 6328 Å. However, more than 95 per cent of the cells of R. rubrum lost their motility. A colorless mutant of S. lutea began dying 10 min faster than the wild strain, which is known to be protected from photosensitized death by carotenoids for at least 2 hr when irradiated in toluidine blue with 1000 ft candles of tungsten light. Since toluidine blue is bleached in irradiated cell suspensions, logarithmic death ceases within an hour with 2·5 × 10=6 M toluidine blue. Yeasts are less susceptible than bacteria, exhibiting longer lags before death begins. The size of colonies produced by irradiated yeast cells decreases with irradiation time. This suggests that multiple hits are required for death.
FUNCTION OF CAROTENOIDS IN PROTECTION OF RHODOTORULA GLUTINIS AGAINST IRRADIATION FROM A GAS LASER
Authors: Maxwell W. Andrew , Macmillan James D. , Chichester C. O.
Published: June 2009

Abstract— The sensitivity of older cells of Rhodotorula glutinis containing a high concentration of carotenoids was compared with young cells containing little visible pigmentation. The younger cells died faster, suggesting that the carotenoids protected. Further, cells grown in the presence of diphenylamine, an inhibitor of carotenoid syntheses, were more susceptible than were normally grown cells. A carotenoidless mutant, isolated after exposure of the wild strain to u.v. light, was more susceptible to lethal photosensitization than the wild strain. The difference in sensitivity, however, was not as great as between old and young cultures of the wild strain. Young cultures of the white mutant were more susceptible to death than were older cultures, therefore, sensitivity is related to age as well as to carotenoid content. The difference in sensitivity was increased between the white mutant and the wild strain when lower light intensities were used. At 10 mW the difference in the lag period was 60 min, while at 30 mW the difference was only 10 min. The lag period was also dependent on the temperature at which cell suspensions were irradiated. At 3°C, no death occurred in 1 hr at 27 mW with either wild or mutant strains. The lag was progressively shorter with increased temperature. The rate of death, however, was apparently not affected by differences in temperature.

An analysis of the carotenoids from the irradiated cells did not show any detectible changes even though it was demonstrated that β‐carotene could be bleached when irradiated in vitro in the presence of toluidine blue.
LA FEBRIS UVEO‐PAROTIDEA (HEERFORDT) EST‐ELLE UNE MANIFESTATION DE LYMFOCRANULOMATOSIS BENIGNA (SCHAUMANN)? ETUDE CLINIQUE
Authors: With Torben K.
Published: June 2009

Se basant sur les cas décrits dans la littérature, l̂auteur démontre qu'il existe de nombreux points de ressemblance entre la maladie générale lymfogranulomatosis benigna (Schaumann) et l̂affection plus rare, febris uveo‐parotidea (Heerfordt). Aussi lui semble‐t‐il important d̂observer si la susdite affection ne doit pas être considerée comme une localisation speéciale de la maladie de Schaumann. L̂auteur propose qu'a l̂avenir les cas de febris uveo‐parotidea soient soumis a un examen de spécialiste de peau et de muqueuses (eventeuellement inclusivement biopsie) et examen radiographique des poumons et des os de la main et du pied. Afin d̂épuiser ulterieurement le sujet des relations avec Tuberculose de ces deux maladies il faudra une épreuve de tuberculine consciencieusement fait.
UEBER DIE SEHSCHÄRFE BEI UEBERMAESSIGER BELEUCHTUNG
Authors: VAN Heuven J. A.
Published: June 2009

Nach einer Analyse der die Sehschärfe beeinflussenden Faktoren wird auseinandergesetzt, dass zur Sehschärfeprüfung die klinisch übliche Methode versagt, wenn es sich um Feststellungen von wirklich messendem Charakter handelt. Daher können die bisher angestellten Untersuchungen zur Bewertung des Einflusses übermässiger Beleuchtung nicht herangezogen werden. Zur Sehschärfenprüfung muss für diese Zwecke die Untersuchung der kleinsten Empfindungsbreite und der Feinheit des optischen Raums oder Richtungssinnes, herangezogen werden.

Unter übermässiger Beleuchtung wird jede Beleuchtung verstanden, die bei jedem Anpassungszustand des Auges dessen funktionelle Leistung herabzusetzten vermag. Es wird gezeigt, in welcher Weise die Beleuchtung zu messen ist, um vergleichbare Ergebnisse zu erhalten und es wird empfohlen nicht die Beleuchtungstärken allein anzugeben, sondern vor allem den Lichtstrom der verwendeten Lichtquellen, sowie die Grösse der wirksamen Öffnung. Hierauf wird ausführlich die Versuchsanordnung geschildert und gezeigt, dass übermässige Beleuchtung sowohl die kleinste Empfindungsbreite als auch die Feinheit des optischen Raumsinns weitgehend herabsetzt.
ZUR FRAGE DER OKKLUSIONSBEHANDLUNG BEI AMBLYOPIE
Authors: Nemetz U. R. , Pressina M. , Schmidt I.
Published: June 2009

1.) Die Okklusivbehandlung bie Amblyopie ist nur als vollokklusivverband genügend wirksam.

2.) Bie paramacularer Fixation ist jede Okklusionsbehandlung nicht nur nahezu unwirksam, sondern auch für das betreffende Auge schädlich, weil die Paramacula dadurch weiter gefördert wird.

3.) Die Okklusionsbehandlung durch Schielklappe ist selbst nach Monaten und Jahren wenig erfolgreich. Der Grund liegt in der leichten Abnehmbarkeit der Schielklappe und der dadurch verursachten Unterbrechung der Okklusion.

4.) Die Behandlung der Amblyopie mit den Apparaten von Bangerter ist der Okklusionsbehandlung in jeder Form überlegen. Vor allem ist sie in den Fällen mit paramacularer Fixation die bisher einzige erfolgreiche Therapie.

5.) Fehlt die Möglichkeit, die Amblyopiebehandlung in einer Anstalt durehzuführen, so empfiehlt sich bei Amblyopien mit macularer Fixation der Okklusivverband an der Brille in der beschriebenen Form.
ETUDE ELECTRO‐OCULOGRAPHIQUE DES PARALYSIES OCULAIRES
Authors: François J. , Derouck A.
Published: June 2009

Dans les paralysies oculaires complètes ou incomplètes, le tracé oculographique obtenu lors de la rotation du globe oculaire par contraction du muscle attient, pr%eAsente des modifications caractéristiques: absence de déflexion de la ligne isoélectrique, déflexion irrégulière et amplitude diminuée, mouvements nystagmiformes, etc.

Dans les parésies oculaires légères ou guéries les modifications du tracé peuvent n'apparaitre que les petits mouvements qui se produisent à la lecture ou dans le nystagmus optocinétique.

In the ocular palsies, complete or incomplete, the oculographic record taken during the rotation of the eyeball caused by contraction of the paralysed muscle, presents characteristic modifications: no deflexion at all of the iso‐electric line, irregular deflexion, diminished amplitude, nystagmiform movements etc.

In the slight or healed ocular palsies, modifications of the oculographic record may only appear for small movements, as those produced by reading or optokinetic nystagmus.
BEOBACHTUNGEN ÜBER MIOTICUMCYSTEN (PUPILLARSAUMCYSTEN NACH EINTRÄUFELUNG PUPILLENVERENGERNDER MITTEL)
Authors: Straub W. , Conrads E.
Published: June 2009

Bericht über die nach Gebrauch von Pilokarpin, Eserin, Prostigmin, Mintacol und DFPbei 9 Patienten ein‐ oder doppelseitig aufgetretenen, mehrfach multiplen Pupillarsaumcysten. Ihre Entwicklung hängt nicht von der Art des Glaukoms oder dem Funktionszustand desAuges ab und kann innerhalb weniger Wochen erfolgen. U. U. wird bei enger Pupille das Sehvermögen durch die Cysten herabgesetzt. Sie scheinen die obere Hälfte des Pupillarsaumes zu bevorzugen. Wie die histologische Untersuchung ergab, besteht die Cystenwand aus einschichtigem Epithel. In Tierversuchen (Kaninchen und Meerschweinchen) liessen sich keine Mioticumcysten erzeugen.
Corneal topography: Photokeratoscopy including the central region
Authors: Andersen J. , Koch‐Jensen P. , Østerby O.
Published: June 2009

Abstract The central corneal zone is depicted on keratoscope photographs using a small target aperture and a large object distance. Information on the peripheral area is included by employing a hemispherical target with a dense circular and radial pattern. On a 16 mm (R = 8 mm) reference steel sphere the diameter of the innermost reflected mire is 0.20 mm and the distance between mires 0.13 mm. The standard deviation on focusing precision, determined to 0.20 mm employing a fixed object, corresponds to an error of 0.06% in linear measurements on keratographs. The variation in object distance due to the curved image plane is at most 0.55 mm within 60 deg from the optical axis of the system for the reference sphere. Nevertheless, all reflected mires are distinctly reproduced on the keratoscope photograph. For a test object the slopes of light intensity curves on the passage between black and white areas are reduced by only 1.0% with a variation in object distance of 0.55 mm around focus.
Corneal topography: Image processing and numerical analysis of keratoscopy
Authors: Andersen J. , Koch‐Jensen P. , Østerby O.
Published: June 2009

Abstract Keratoscope photograph negatives of one normal cornea and calibration steel spheres were digitized by a CCD video camera connected to a frame grabber. The centroid of the innermost reflected mire was determined and used for conversion of the image to polar coordinates. The distance to each reflected ring was computed. Calculations of the radius of curvature describing the reflecting surface locally were performed by an iterative procedure based on differential equations. The calculated mean radius for steel spheres in the range of 5.5 to 11 mm in diameter conformed with the known values. The average difference between observed and expected values was 0.2% and the average coefficient of variation was 0.1%. The standard deviations on observed ring means decreased inversely with ring number with an average coefficient of variation of 0.2%. Likewise, on a corneal surface SD also decreased inversely with ring number from 0.080 to 0.032 mm. In terms of refractive power this meant, that outwards from the third ring 95% of observations were within ±0.4 diopters from the average value.
Central microbial keratitis in a Swedish city population
Authors: Neumann Margareta , Sjöstrand Johan
Published: June 2009

Abstract An analysis of central microbial keratitis with respect to etiology, recovery, complications and visual outcome was carried out in Gothenburg, Sweden, during a 3‐year period. Gram positive bacteria were found in 22 out of 48 cases; Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis accounted for more than 50% of these Gram positive cases. Pseudomonas was the most common Gram negative bacterium. No case with etiology of fungus was found. The contact lens wearers showed mainly the same bacterial spectrum as non‐wearers. The initial ‘shotgun’ therapy with cefuroxim and gentamycin seemed adequate for this bacterial spectrum. Seventy percent of the eyes healed within 3 weeks. Contact lens wear and trauma were found to be the two major predisposing factors in the cases with microbial keratitis. The lens wearers had shorter recovery times than the non wearers. The visual results after one month were good in 50% of the eyes, and another 12% attained useful vision.
Pseudoexfoliation syndrome: Clinical factors related to capsular rupture in cataract surgery
Authors: Moreno Javier , Duch Susana , Lajara Jerónimo
Published: June 2009

Abstract Extracapsular surgery has a high frequency of capsular rupture or disinsertion in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Irido‐phakodonesis is one of the factors that suggests this complication. Irido‐phakodonesis acts as an ‘all or nothing’ mechanism, as it does not appear until there is a certain degree of zonular lesion. We carried out a study on 330 eyes with pseudoexfoliation, relating irido‐phakodonesis to 31 clinical signs. The results showed that irido‐phakodonesis is related to cataracts, degree of mydriasis, presence of glaucoma, atrophy of the pupilar pigmentary ruff, and uniform pigmentation of the trabecular meshwork. These results suggest that the signs which indicate the existence of zonular lesion during extracapsular surgery, include poor dilation, the presence of glaucoma and pigmentary alterations, whilst the pseudoexfoliation material deposited in the anterior segment does not appear to have a bearing on this complication.
Plasma and aqueous humour concentrations and systemic effects of topical betaxolol and timolol in man
Authors: Vuori Marja‐Liisa , Ali‐Melkkilä Timo , Kaila Timo , Iisalo Esko , Saari K. Matti
Published: June 2009

Abstract Plasma and aqueous humour concentrations and systemic effects of timolol and betaxolol were studied after ocular administration in 45 patients scheduled for extracapsular cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation. The patients were divided randomly into three groups and received 40 μl of either 0.5% betaxolol, 0.25% timolol or placebo into the lower cul‐de‐sacs of both eyes. Blood samples were collected over a period of 4 h and blood pressure and heart rate were monitored during the study. Aqueous humour samples were aspirated at the beginning of the operation. Plasma and aqueous humour concentrations of timolol and betaxolol were analyzed using a sensitive radioreceptor assay. The mean plasma concentrations of betaxolol were lower than those of timolol. The concentration of betaxolol in the aqueous humour was twice as high as the concentration of timolol. Both drugs produced a significant decrease in heart rate. In the timolol group a decrease in heart rate was found 15 min after drug administration, and in the betaxolol group after one hour.
Visual outcome after vitrectomy for diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Nakazawa Mitsuru , Kimizuka Yoshihiro , Watabe Tamaki , Kato Kei‐ichi , Watanabe Hiroki , Yamanobe Satoshi , Arakawa Akira , Tamai Makoto
Published: June 2009

Abstract For 5 years after surgery we measured visual acuity in 56 eyes that had undergone pars plana vitrectomy for proliferative diabetic retinopathy. A total of 44.7% eyes maintained improved visual outcome, 19.6% had unchanged visual acuity, and 35.7% were considered failures, as compared to preoperative measurements. Visual results obtained from each patient's visual acuity measured at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 3 years after surgery were statistically compared with that obtained from the visual acuity at 5 years using the x2 test. Results showed that visual results recorded at 3 months and 6 months were significantly different from that recorded at the 5‐year follow‐up (p < 0.02, respectively). We found a tendency for the visual acuity to change during the initial 6 months after surgery and to stabilize by 1 year. Further analysis showed that the initial instability was due to the presence of preoperative retinal detachment. Postoperative visual functions also worsened with complications such as postoperative retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataract formation.
Comparison of retinal lesions produced by transscleral krypton laser photocoagulation, transpupillar krypton laser photocoagulation and cryocoagulation
Authors: Suomalainen Veli‐Pekka
Published: June 2009

Abstract We compared the retinal lesions produced by transscleral and transpupillar krypton lasers and cryocoagulation. Transscleral laser photocoagulation was applied under indirect ophthalmoscope visual control with indentation of the sclera by the laser probe. Transpupillar laser was performed with a Volk 90 D lens. The power and the spot size were adjusted to create lesions of similar size and intensity as in transscleral photocoagulation. The output power needed for transscleral photocoagulation was 0.2W with exposure time of 3–5 sec. In the transpupillar photocoagulation the output power was 0.3W and the exposure time 2–3 sec, respectively. The lesions were studied histologically 1 h. 1, 3, 7, 30 and 60 days after treatment. Histopathological studies of the krypton laser lesions revealed destruction and scarring of the outer layers of the retina and the choroid. The lesions produced by transpupillar and transscleral laser appeared to be rather similar. These results indicate that, in the rabbit eye, there is no difference between the lesions produced by the transpupillar or transscleral route of laser application. Transscleral laser application may have clinical advantages over transpupillary laser in the eyes with hazy media or in other cases when transpupillar laser is not possible.
Psychophysical visual function, retinopathy, and glycemic control in insulin‐dependent diabetics with normal visual acuity
Authors: Brinchmann‐Hansen Olaf , Bangstad Hans‐Jacob , Hultgren Staale , Fletcher Robert , Dahl‐Jørgensen Knut , Hanssen Kristian F. , Sandvik Leiv
Published: June 2009

Abstract We studied relations between psychophysical visual function and grade of retinopathy, glycemic control and clinical background data in 51 insulin‐dependent diabetic patients, aged 17–47 years. Three separate qualities of visual function were examined, macular recovery time (nyctometry; 2 min adaptation), contrast sensitivity (Vistech 6000 chart; between 1.5 and 18 cycles per degree (cpd)) and colour vision (Fletcher DS8; protan/deutan and tritan). Only contrast sensitivity of 6 cpd was associated with the grade of retinopathy; reduced function was found in patients with retinopathy compared to those without. No correlations between macular recovery, contrast sensitivity and colour vision were found. None of the visual functions was significantly related to glycemic control, age, duration of diabetes, blood pressure, intraocular pressure, or urinary albumin excretion. Our data suggests that the neurosensory function of contrast sensitivity correlates more sensitively to the grade of diabetic retinopathy than macular recovery and colour vision. Cross‐sectional assessments of different psychophysical visual functions seem to be of restricted clinical value as indicators of preceding glycemic control in diabetic patients with no or mild nonproliferative retinopathy.
Dysthyroid eye disease presenting as Brown's syndrome
Authors: Hughes D. S. , Beck L. , Hill R. , Plenty J.
Published: June 2009

Abstract A case of acquired Brown's syndrome as a presentation of dysthyroid eye disease is described. Involvement of the superior oblique was confirmed on both CT‐scan and MRI. A possible causal mechanism is discussed.
Diagnosis and management of a biorbital pencil injury
Authors: Mirza G. Ertuǧrul , Ekinciler Ö. Faruk , Karaküçük Sarper
Published: June 2009

Abstract A 9‐year‐old girl was wounded by a pencil which entered the right orbit and passed towards the left. The broken part remained inside. The diagnosis was delayed for 9 months since the history and the symptoms were misleading. The pencil, which could not be detected with plain X‐rays, was demonstrated with computerized tomography (CT) and removed from the orbit successfully. The case is presented to emphasize the contribution of CT to the perforating injuries of the orbit with wooden particles. Importance of orbital foreign bodies in the differential diagnosis of proptosis in the pediatric age group is also discussed.
Ketoconazole induced papilledema
Authors: Or Meral , Akbatur Haluk , Hasanerisoǧlu Berati , Bilgihan Kamil , Çakir Nuri
Published: June 2009

Abstract Ketoconazole was administered in a case of hirsutismus over a period of 4 months with high doses of 800 mg/day, and bilateral papilledema developed. After cessation of the drug the condition disappeared. As far as we know this is the first reported papilledema complication due to Ketoconazole.
Primary malignant melanoma of the lacrimal sac
Authors: Eide Nils , Refsum Sigvald B. , Bakke Søren
Published: June 2009

Abstract A case report of a primary malignant melanoma of the lacrimal sac is presented. After excision a local recurrence appeared one year later. Wide, but incomplete excision and postoperative irradiation resulted in local tumour control for 4 years. The patient succumbed to a uremic death caused by a rectal cancer removed 3 years before the occurrence of the malignant melanoma.
Pseudoexfoliation syndrome as a risk factor for acute ciliary block angle closure glaucoma
Authors: von der Lippe Ignatius , Küchle Michael , Naumann Gottfried O. H.
Published: June 2009

Abstract Two patients presented with unilateral ciliary block angle closure glaucoma and bilateral pseudoexfoliation (PSX) syndrome and were treated successfully with posterior sclerotomy (one case), extracapsular cataract extraction and posterior chamber lens implantation. None of the eyes had undergone previous ocular surgery except Nd: YAG‐laser iridotomy. Axial lengths as measured with A‐scan ultrasonography were 22.48 mm and 24.30 mm. During follow‐up of 5 and 12 months, intraocular pressure was well controlled without antiglaucoma medication in both patients. We suspect that the well‐known changes of the zonula origin at the ciliary epithelium in PSX syndrome lead to anterior subluxation of the lens with consecutive ciliary block angle closure glaucoma. Ciliary block angle closure glaucoma seems to be another serious complication in PSX syndrome. Therefore, miotics should probably be used with care in PSX eyes with signs of zonular alterations because they may trigger this mechanism.
Activity distribution of cytochrome oxidase in the rat retina
Authors: Chen Enping , Söderberg Per G. , Lindström Bo
Published: June 2009

Abstract. Cytochrome oxidase (CYO) is a key enzyme in the respiratory chain. Therefore, CYO has an important role in the cell metabolism. In the present study CYO activity in the rat retina was identified by histochemical staining. The density of the staining, corresponding to the activity of the CYO, was evaluated quantitatively by densitometry. A high CYO activity was found in the retinal pigment epithelium, in the inner segment of the photoreceptors, in the outer plexiform layer and in the inner plexiform layer. In the outer segment of the photoreceptors, in the outer nuclear layer, and in the inner nuclear layer the CYO activity was relatively low. An analysis of variance demonstrated that the precision in an estimation of a mean depends on the number of animals and the number of retinal sections per animal.
Lipid and Protein Density in the Rat Retina: A Microradiographical Study1
Authors: Chen Enping , Söderberg Per G. , Lindström Bo
Published: June 2009

Abstract. Lipid and protein density in each retinal layer were determined microradiographically in retinal sections of 10 rats. Lipid in retinal sections was extracted with chloroform. The fraction of dry mass remaining after lipid extraction is mainly protein. The dry mass lost in chloroform processing was calculated to obtain the lipid density, which accounts for about 30% of the total dry mass density. The total dry mass density in each retinal layer is the sum of the lipid and protein density. Lipid should be regarded as an important X‐ray absorber when determining the dry mass density in the rat retina with microradiography.
INHIBITION OF CYTOCHROME OXIDASE AND BLUE ‐ LIGHT DAMAGE IN RAT RETINA
Authors: Chen Enping
Published: June 2009

Abstract. The activity of cytochrome oxidase, outer nuclear layer thickness and edema were quantitatively evaluated in the blue‐light‐exposed rat retina. Dark‐adapted or cyclic‐light‐reared rats were exposed to blue light with a retinal dose of 380 kJ/m2. Immediately, one, two, and three day(s) after exposure, the retinas of six rats from each adaptation group were examined. There was no difference between the dark‐adapted and cyclic‐light‐reared rats. Immediately after light exposure, cytochrome oxidase activity decreased. The activity in the inner segments remained low at day one, while severe edema was observed in the inner and outer segments. The outer nuclear layer thickness decreased one to three days after exposure. The blue‐light exposure inhibited cytochrome oxidase activity and caused retinal injury. Similarity of the injury process in the dark‐adapted and cyclic‐light‐reared retinas suggests that rhodopsin was not involved. The inhibition of cytochrome oxidase could be a cause of retinal damage.
Inactivation of lactate dehydrogenase by UV radiation in the 300 nm wavelength region
Authors: Chen En‐Ping , Söderberg Per G. , MacKerell Alexander D. , Lindström Bo , Tengroth Björn M.
Published: June 2009

Summary: The effect of UV radiation on lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was investigated. LDH from bovine heart was exposed to 3.6‐18 kJ/m2 of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the 300 nm wavelength region. The activity of LDH was observed to decrease as a function of the dosage of UV radiation. The inactivation of LDH was independent of exposure rate at constant dosage of UV radiation. The decrease of LDH activity caused by UV 300 nm radiation was coupled to a decrease of the maximal velocity (Vmax) while the Michaelis constant (Km remained unchanged. The absorption spectrum of the LDH changed during exposure to UV radiation suggesting an alteration of tryptophan in the LDH molecule.
The morphological and anatomical properties of Lamium lycium (Lamiaceae), endemic to Turkey
Authors: Baran Pelin , Özdemir Canan
Published: June 2009

In this study, the morphological and anatomical features of Lamium lycium Boiss. (Lamiaceae) are described in detail. L. lycium has a perennial tap‐root, and the stem is ascending and clearly quadrangular. The leaves are simple and broadly ovate to narrowly ovate in shape. The inflorescense is a verticillate cyme. The corolla is purple and the upper lip is hooded. For anatomy, the cross‐sections of root, stem, leaf, petiole, calyx, corolla and generative organs were examined and the anatomical features of the taxon are discussed. The morphological features were in most respects congruent with previous reports. However, the anatomy of L. lycium has not been studied before and the results are here compared with trose of previous studies on other members of Lamiaceae. Furthermore, glandular trichomes are illustrated. The results are presented with photographs and tables.
Impatiens chashanensis (Balsaminaceae) sp. nov. from Sichuan, China
Authors: Bi Hai‐Yan , Hou Yuan‐Tong , Zhou Xiu‐Ren , Yu Sheng‐Xiang
Published: June 2009

Impatiens chashanensis H. Y. Bi & S. X. Yu (Balsaminaceae), a new species from the Sichuan Province in China, is described and illustrated. In comparison with the morphologically close I. dicentra, both species have succulent stems and the lobes of the lateral united petals end in a long hair, but I. chashanensis differs in having white flowers, four lateral sepals, lacerate apex of the inner sepal, shorter spur with swollen, slightly bifid apices. Moreover, leaf epidermal characters also support the recognition of the new species.
Lathyrus nivalis subsp. sahinii subsp. nov. (sect. Platystylis, Leguminosae) from Turkey
Authors: Genç Hasan
Published: June 2009

The new subspecies Lathyrus nivalis Hand.‐Mazz. subsp. sahinii H. Genç (sect. Platystylis, Leguminosae) from Turkey is described and illustrated with diagnostic characters and taxonomic comments. The characters of the new subspecies are compared with those of the type subspecies, from which it differs mainly in the shape, length, width and venation of leaflets, length and width of the stipules, flower color, legume, and style length. In addition, the geographic distribution of the new subspecies is outlined.
Neoliberalism and Reclaiming a Theology of Economy
Authors: Veerkamp Ton
Published: June 2009

The article clarifies the notion of neoliberalism and traces it back to the origins of liberalism in the civil revolutions of the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. New in neoliberalism are not its economic doctrines and underlying philosophy, viz. utilitarianism but the global social situation. The bourgeoisie has lost its counterforce and its doctrines no longer have to compete for recognition: they represent a creed, a new gospel. The article unveils the free‐market doctrine of neoliberalism as an ideology. The theological part of the article begins from the first commandment as the guideline and quintessence of all theology. Crucial for the socio‐economic implications of the Ten Commandments is, “Do not covet”. The Torah and the prophets can be summarized in two interdictions: one relates to slavery and the other to accumulation. Holy scripture excludes the private ownership of the means of production and the accumulation of socio‐economic power. It is clear that the accumulation of economic power is leading in our time to the exclusion of increasing numbers of human beings, i.e., to a new slavery. Therefore, a theology of economy must contradict the creeds and practice of neoliberalism.
Telling the Truth, Naming the Power and Confessing our Faith in the Market: The Missiological Implications of the Accra Confession
Authors: Hewitt Roderick R.
Published: June 2009

This article argues that the neoliberal economic order that undergirds the contemporary phase of globalization is, to a great extent, linked to the demise of Christendom in Western society and the emergence of a post‐Christendom culture and this carries major missiological implications for the church. Fidelity to the Christian faith requires affirming God's sovereignty over all of God's creation and this necessitates resisting the deceptive economic idolatry that is at work in our world. The methodology of engagement involves taking sides on issues and choices that are unclear and complex. Using Caribbean hermeneutics in a re‐reading of Rev. 17 and 18, I suggest that the Book of Revelation serves as a potent signpost to address the contemporary Babylonian system that is controlling the world economic order. The Accra Confession and the Agape Call to Love and Action do not leave room for the church's ministry and mission to be neutral. Although the forces of opposition are strong, I argue that the church that remains faithful in doing Christ's mission cannot be defeated.
The AGAPE Process: A Challenge for Transformative Mission and Ecumenism in the 21st Century
Authors: Mshana Rogate R.
Published: June 2009

This article interprets the links between the AGAPE (Alternative Globalization Addressing People and Earth) process, which the World Council of Churches (WCC) established to seek alternatives to the current process of economic globalization. The scope of this article is limited to the AGAPE process in as far as it contributes to transformative mission and in order to discern an understanding of ecumenism as a sanctuary for the flourishing of life in abundance for all. The article also identifies areas that need further reflection.
Crusade Violence: Understanding and Overcoming the Impact of Mission Among Muslims
Authors: Nayak Abhijit
Published: June 2009

The events of the Crusades during the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries stand as obstacles in the midst of contemporary Christian‐Muslim relationships, interaction and dialogue. These historical unfortunate and painful events have resulted in hatred and suspicion between the two religions and left an indelible scar in Muslim and Christian minds. The effects of the Crusades are numerous and damaging; the challenges for contemporary mission among Muslims are daunting. This article concerns itself with Crusade violence in the history of Christianity. After a brief description of different examples of violence in the Crusades, this paper discusses how Christians viewed Muslims and vice versa and how they view each other today. It gives particular focus to influential Christian figures, who during the time of the Crusades or afterwards disagreed with the militaristic approach of the Crusaders and launched peacekeeping and evangelistic missions to Muslims. Then, this essay addresses contemporary mission approaches to Muslims.
Practicing Evangelism from the Belly of the Beast: Transcendence and Transgression in the Missiologies of M.R. Shaull and O.E. Costas
Authors: Santiago‐Vendrell Angel D.
Published: June 2009

This article uses the missiologies of Richard Shaull and Orlando Costas as correctives to evangelical methods of evangelism that tend to be a‐historical, a‐cultural and imperialistic. The article also criticizes North American civil religion as a phenomenon that legitimizes conservative politics and denigrates and dilutes Jesus's message of radical discipleship. First, Shaull is used as a missionary model of someone who throughout his career took the poor and oppressed as the starting point for missiological reflection. He challenged Christians to transcend and transgress those church structures that are counterproductive to the reign of God. Orlando Costas's contextual evangelism from the “periphery” is also used as a corrective to evangelical mission that tends to spiritualize Christ and lacks serious social engagement. The article concludes with a visionary strategy of confrontation against power structures and a new way of moving forward based on those at the margins.
Council for World Mission: A Case Study and Critical Appraisal of the Journey of Partnership in Mission
Authors: van der Water Desmond
Published: June 2009

When the Council for World Mission was founded in 1977, the organization held up partnership in mission as the key constituting factor of its identity as a new mission organization. This paper critically appraises the organization's missional journey over three decades, with particular reference to its vocation as a partnership in mission.
The Contact Ratio of a Space-Curve Meshing-Wheel Transmission Mechanism
Authors: Chen Yang-zhi , Luo Liang , Hu Qiang
Published: June 2009

The space-curve meshing-wheel (SCMW) is a novel mechanical mechanism suitable for small devices. In this paper, a design formula of the contact ratio of SCMW is derived from the space-curve meshing equation, which has been established in previous studies on the basis of a kinematic analysis. A specific SCMW mechanism capable of smooth transmission is then designed and crafted, and its rotational motion is measured in an experiment. In summary, a SCMW designed using the proposed contact ratio formula can perform successive and smooth transmission as long as the contact ratio is greater than 1.