bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fragmentation and Genetic Diversity in Romnalda (Dasypogonaceae), a Rare Rain forest Herbaceous Genus from New Guinea and Australia
Authors: Shapcott Alison , Bau Billy , Powell Michael
Published: September 2008

Rain forests are expected to be amongst the ecosystem types most affected by fragmentation due to their high species diversity, high endemism, complexity of interactions, and contrast with surrounding altered matrix. Due to their shorter life cycles and dependence on canopy cover, rain forest understory herbs are expected to indicate the effects of recent fragmentation more rapidly than canopy trees. This study investigated all four known species of the genus Romnalda, all of which are rare rain forest herbaceous species, to investigate the possible effects of habitat fragmentation and isolation on genetic diversity and gene flow. Allozymes were used as genetic markers and regional remnant vegetation maps were used to compare landscape fragmentation. We found that R. strobilacea populations in a highly fragmented landscape were genetically depauperate compared with those of its congeneric species that are found within continuous rain forest habitats and that allelic diversity decreased with decreasing population size but not geographic distance in R. strobilacea. Given the similarity among the species, our results indicate that all Romnalda species are potentially susceptible to loss of genetic diversity due to habitat fragmentation within relatively short timeframes. The results indicate that populations are not highly genetically differentiated and there is little evidence of genetic provenance where the species have restricted geographic ranges. Thus, species recovery programs would be better to focus on maintaining population size and genetic diversity rather than population differentiation.
An inhomogeneous jet model for the rapid variability of TeV blazars
Authors: Boutelier T. , Henri G. , Petrucci P.-O.
Published: September 2008

We present a new time-dependent inhomogeneous jet model of non-thermal blazar emission, which reproduces the entire spectral energy distribution together with the rapid gamma-ray variability. Ultrarelativistic leptons are injected at the base of a jet and propagate along the jet structure. We assume continuous reacceleration and cooling, producing a relativistic quasi-maxwellian (or ‘pile-up’) particle energy distribution. The synchrotron and synchrotron self-Compton jet emissivity are computed at each altitude. Klein–Nishina effects as well as intrinsic gamma–gamma absorption are included in the computation. Due to the pair production optical depth, considerable particle density enhancement can occur, particularly during flaring states. Time-dependent jet emission can be computed by varying the particle injection, but due to the sensitivity of pair production process, only small variations of the injected density are required during the flares. The stratification of the jet emission, together with a pile-up distribution, allows significantly lower bulk Lorentz factors, compared to one-zone models. Applying this model to the case of PKS 2155-304 and its big TeV flare observed in 2006, we can reproduce simultaneously the average broad-band spectrum of this source as well as the TeV spectra and TeV light curve of the flare with bulk Lorentz factor lower than 15.
Bio‐Political Geographies
Authors: Schlosser Kolson
Published: September 2008

This article reviews the debate on bio‐politics in order to clarify its many uses and applications in geography. In doing so, I review how bio‐politics is conceived by Foucault, Hardt and Negri, and Agamben, as well as how geographers have employed, added to, or disagreed with their insights. More specifically, I structure this review around how various analysts have understood the relationship between bio‐political power and ‘traditional’ forms of sovereign power, and, relatedly, how a focus by geographers on micro‐scales of analysis can help explore this relationship.
Effects of pH on the Textural Properties and Meltability of Pasteurized Process Cheese Made with Different Types of Emulsifying Salts
Authors: Lu Y. , Shirashoji N. , Lucey J.A.
Published: September 2008

ABSTRACT:  Functional properties of pasteurized process cheese (PPC) made with different types of emulsifying salts (ES) (2%, wt/wt) were investigated as a function of different pH values (from 5.3 to approximately 5.9). The ES investigated were trisodium citrate (TSC), disodium phosphate (DSP), sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP), and tetrasodium pyrophosphate (TSPP). Meltability and textural properties were determined using UW‐MeltProfiler and uniaxial compression, respectively. All PPC samples exhibited an increase in degree of flow (DOF) determined at 45 °C when the pH was increased from 5.3 to 5.6, presumably reflecting greater Ca binding by the ES, increased charge repulsion and therefore greater casein dispersion. When the pH of PPC was increased from 5.6 to approximately 5.9, 2 types of ES (DSP and SHMP) exhibited no further increase in DOF at 45 °C; while DOF increased in 1 type of PPC (made with TSC) but decreased in another (made with TSPP). TSPP is able to form crosslinks with casein especially in the vicinity of pH 6, which likely restricted melt; in contrast TSC does not crosslink caseins and the increase in pH helped cause greater casein dispersion. Low pH samples (5.3) were not significantly harder than higher pH samples for all ES types but exhibited fracture. The PPC with the highest hardness values at pHs 5.3 and 5.6 were made with TSPP and TSC, respectively. The pH‐dependent functional behavior of PPC was strongly influenced by the type of ES and its physicochemical properties including its ability to bind Ca, the possible creation of crosslinks with casein and casein dispersion during cooking.
Injection‐Salting and Cold‐Smoking of Farmed Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhuaL.) and Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salarL.) at Different Stages ofRigor Mortis: Effect on Physical Properties
Authors: Akse L. , Birkeland S. , Tobiassen T. , Joensen S. , Larsen R.
Published: September 2008

ABSTRACT: Processing of fish is generally conducted postrigor, but prerigor processing is associated with some potential advantages. The aim of this study was to study how 5 processing regimes of cold‐smoked cod and salmon conducted at different stages of rigor influenced yield, fillet shrinkage, and gaping. Farmed cod and salmon was filleted, salted by brine injection of 25% NaCl, and smoked for 2 h at different stages of rigor. Filleting and salting prerigor resulted in increased fillet shrinkage and less increase in weight during brine injection, which in turn was correlated to the salt content of the fillet. These effects were more pronounced in cod fillets when compared to salmon. Early processing reduced fillet gaping and fillets were evaluated as having a firmer texture. In a follow‐up trial with cod, shrinkage and weight gain during injection was studied as an effect of processing time postmortem. No changes in weight gain were observed for fillets salted the first 24 h postmortem; however, by delaying the processing 12 h postmortem, the high and rapid shrinking of cod fillets during brine injection was halved.
Application of Atomic Force Microscopy on Rapid Determination of Microorganisms for Food Safety
Authors: Yang H. , Wang Y.
Published: September 2008

ABSTRACT:  Rapid detection and quantification of microorganisms is important for food quality, safety, and security. In this field, nanotechnology appears to be promising in its ability to characterize an individual microorganism and detect heterogeneous distribution of microbes in food samples. In this study, atomic force microscopy (AFM), a nanotechnology tool, was used to investigate Escherichia coli (E. coli) qualitatively and quantitatively. E. coli strains B and K12 were used as surrogates to represent pathogenic strains, such as E. coli O157: H7. The results from AFM were compared with those from scanning/transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM). The qualitative determination was obtained using morphology and characteristic parameters from AFM images, and the quantitative determination was obtained by calculating the microorganisms in AFM images. The results show that AFM provides a new approach for rapid determination of microorganisms for food safety.
Degradation of Lycopene and β‐carotene in Model Systems and in Lyophilized Guava during Ambient Storage: Kinetics, Structure, and Matrix Effects
Authors: Ferreira J.E.M. , Rodriguez‐Amaya D.B.
Published: September 2008

ABSTRACT:  Being highly unsaturated, carotenoids are susceptible to isomerization and oxidation during the processing and storage of food. In the present study, the degradation of acyclic lycopene and dicyclic β‐carotene in low‐moisture and aqueous model systems, as well as in lyophilized guava, during storage at ambient temperature, in the absence or presence of light, was investigated. Both carotenoids followed first order kinetics under the various conditions investigated. Lycopene degraded much faster than β‐carotene in all the model systems. In a comparison of lycopene isolated from guava, tomato, and watermelon, greater losses were observed with lycopene from tomato. Since the model system was identical in the 3 cases, these results indicated that other compounds from the food sources, co‐extracted with lycopene, might have influenced the oxidation. Light consistently and strongly promoted degradation under all conditions studied. The susceptibility of lycopene to degradation was much less in lyophilized guava than in the model systems, showing the marked protective influence of the food matrix. Loss of β‐carotene, found at a concentration of about 18 times lower than lycopene, was only slightly lower than that of lycopene in lyophilized guava, indicating that the effect of matrix and/or the initial concentration overshadowed the structural influence.
Microbial Inactivation Kinetics during High‐Pressure Carbon Dioxide Treatment: Nonlinear Model for the Combined Effect of Temperature and Pressure in Apple Juice
Authors: Ferrentino G. , Ferrari G. , Poletto M. , Balaban M.O
Published: September 2008

ABSTRACT:  Isobaric and isothermal semi‐logarithmic survival curves of natural microflora in apple juice treated with high‐pressure carbon dioxide at 7, 13, and 16 MPa pressures and 35, 50, and 60 °C temperatures were fitted with a nonlinear equation to find the values of the coefficient b(P ), b(T ), n(P ), and n(T ). Profiles of the model parameters were obtained as a function of pressure and temperature. The model fitted with good agreement (R2 > 0.945), the survival curves. An empirical equation was proposed to describe the combined effects of pressure and temperature. The equation, derived from a power law model, was written in the form: . The proposed model fitted the experimental data well. At 7 MPa and 50 and 60 °C, 13 MPa and 35 and 60 °C, 16 MPa and 35 °C, the model provided log10 reduction residual values (observed value – fitted value) lower than 0.284 showing a good agreement between the experimental and the predicted survival levels.
Antibacterial Activity of Ozone‐Depolymerized Crawfish Chitosan
Authors: Seo S. , King J.M. , Prinyawiwatkul W. , Janes M.
Published: September 2008

ABSTRACT:  Antimicrobial activities of chitosan samples with different molecular weights (1333, 432, 201, 131, and 104 kDa) prepared by ozone treatment were examined against 2 Gram‐positive bacteria (Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus) and 2 Gram‐negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas fluorescen) to investigate the effect of chitosan's molecular weight and concentration on the inhibition of bacterial growth. Antimicrobial activity of chitosan varied depending on the molecular weight, concentration of chitosan, and type of microorganism. Generally, the effectiveness of the chitosans significantly increased with increasing chitosan concentration, regardless of molecular size and types of bacteria. Chitosan with molecular weights ranging from 104 to 201 kDa showed relatively greater antimicrobial activity against L. monocytogenes, S. aureus, and P. fluorescen; whereas for E. coli, intermediate molecular weight chitosan was more effective in growth inhibition than lower or higher molecular weight chitosan particularly at 0.1% concentration.
Effect of Minimal Processing Conditions on Respiration Rate of Carrots
Authors: Iqbal T. , Rodrigues F.A.S , Mahajan P.V. , Kerry J.P. , Gil L. , Manso M.C. , Cunha L.M.
Published: September 2008

ABSTRACT:  Measurement, analysis, and modeling of respiration rate (RR) of fresh produce are fundamental for the engineering design of MAP. This study investigates the effect of type of cutting (sliced in circular shape, batons in rectangular shape, and shredded into thin strips) on the respiration rate of carrots at different temperatures (4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 °C) with ambient atmosphere. The higher respiration rates were found for shredded carrots and the lowest for whole carrots at all the temperatures tested. The RR increased from 9 ± 1 to 26 ± 3, 10 ± 1 to 53 ± 2, 11 ± 1 to 55 ± 2, and 18 ± 1 to 75 ± 3 mL of O2 per kilogram hour for whole, sliced, baton, and shredded carrots, respectively, as the temperature increased from 4 to 20 °C. On an average, RO2 and RCO2 were increased by 85% and 64%, 100% and 72%, and 151% and 124% for sliced, baton, and shredded carrots, respectively, compared to the RR values of whole carrots. The temperature dependence of RR followed an Arrhenius‐type relationship for all types of carrots, with activation energies in the range of 35 ± 3 to 62 ± 2 kJ/mol. Type of cut was the major factor for both RO2 and RCO2, with shredded carrots having the highest rates and whole carrots the lowest. RR of whole carrots did not vary during storage, whereas it increased for cut carrots and especially for shredded carrots. The respiratory quotient (RQ) increased with temperature and did not vary during storage in all types of carrots, except the RQ of whole carrots decreased significantly over time.
Clinical utility of the new beckman‐coulter parameter red blood cell size factor in the study of erithropoiesis
Authors: URRECHAGA E.
Published: September 2008

CHr has been used as a diagnostic tool, together with biochemical markers, to distinguish IDA from ACD, and is incorporated to NKF‐K/DOQI guidelines for the monitoring of rHuEPO therapy. The measurement of CHr has been restricted to the analysers of a single manufacturer, Siemens. Red blood cell size factor (RSf) is a new parameter provided by Beckman‐Coulter which joins together the volume of erythrocytes and the volume of reticulocytes
image

The aims of the study were to establish the values of RSf in normal population and in different types of anemia to investigate its clinical usefulness in the study of erythropoiesis and its correlation with CHr. Samples from 449 patients (learning group) were run sequentially on both LH 750 (Beckman‐Coulter) and Advia 2120 (Siemens) analysers. Good correlation between CHr and RSf was observed, r2 = 0.85. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for RSf and the diagnosis of restricted erythropoiesis

Cut off
87.7 fl

AUC
0.983

Sensitivity
99.4%

Specificity
90.6%

The diagnostic usefulness of RSf was evaluated on a validation group which included 220 consecutive patients with anemia. This study shows a very good level of agreement between RSf and CHr. Both are suitable parameters for the study of erythropoiesis.
Seed supply for broadscale restoration: maximizing evolutionary potential
Authors: Broadhurst Linda M. , Lowe Andrew , Coates David J. , Cunningham Saul A. , McDonald Maurice , Vesk Peter A. , Yates Colin
Published: September 2008

Restoring degraded land to combat environmental degradation requires the collection of vast quantities of germplasm (seed). Sourcing this material raises questions related to provenance selection, seed quality and harvest sustainability. Restoration guidelines strongly recommend using local sources to maximize local adaptation and prevent outbreeding depression, but in highly modified landscapes this restricts collection to small remnants where limited, poor quality seed is available, and where harvesting impacts may be high. We review three principles guiding the sourcing of restoration germplasm: (i) the appropriateness of using ‘local’ seed, (ii) sample sizes and population characteristics required to capture sufficient genetic diversity to establish self‐sustaining populations and (iii) the impact of over‐harvesting source populations. We review these topics by examining current collection guidelines and the evidence supporting these, then we consider if the guidelines can be improved and the consequences of not doing so. We find that the emphasis on local seed sourcing will, in many cases, lead to poor restoration outcomes, particularly at broad geographic scales. We suggest that seed sourcing should concentrate less on local collection and more on capturing high quality and genetically diverse seed to maximize the adaptive potential of restoration efforts to current and future environmental change.
Male mating strategy and the introgression of a growth hormone transgene
Authors: Valosaari Kata‐Riina , Aikio Sami , Kaitala Veijo
Published: September 2008

Escaped transgenic organisms (GMO’s) may threaten the populations of their wild relatives if able to hybridize with each other. The introgression of a growth enhancement transgene into a wild Atlantic salmon population may be affected by the transgene’s effects not only on fitness parameters, but also on mating behaviour. Large anadromous GMO males are most preferred in mating, but a transgene can also give the large sneakers a reproductive advantage over the smaller wild individuals. With a simulation model, we studied whether the increase in the proportion and mating success of sneakers in transgenic and hybrid genotypes could facilitate the introgression of a transgene into wild population after the release of GMOs. The model combines population dynamics and Mendelian inheritance of a transgenic trait. We found that the introgression of the transgene is strongly affected by the greater mating preference of large GMO males. Furthermore, the difference in reproductive success between the anadromous versus sneaker strategy defines how much GMO’s have to be preferred to be able to invade. These results emphasize the importance of detailed knowledge of reproductive systems and the effect of a transgene on the phenotype and behaviour of GMOs when assessing the consequences of their release or escape to the wild.
Factors affecting the use of protective stabilization in dental patients with cognitive disabilities
Authors: Karibe Hiroyuki , Umezu Yuko , Hasegawa Yuko , Ogihara Eiwa , Masuda Risa , Ogata Kiyokazu , Shirase Toshiomi , Kawakami Tomomi , Warita Sachie
Published: September 2008

The goal of this study was to investigate the effects of various factors on the use of protective stabilization (PS) in patients with cognitive disabilities during dental treatment. An observational, case‐control design was used with a case (protective stabilization group or PS group) and a control (usual management group or UM group) to assess a sample of subjects. Forty‐eight dental patients were selected from the two groups. Various factors were compared between the groups. The prevalence of patients with profound cognitive disabilities was higher in the PS group (68.7%) than in the UM group (6.2%) (p < 0.0001). The odds ratio of using protective stabilization was 6.18 (95% confidence interval, 1.20–31.72) for patients who were prescribed antipsychotic agents. Our results suggest that patients with profound cognitive disabilities and/or prescriptions for antipsychotic medications have more behavioral disturbances during dental treatments and require protective stabilization.
Manifestation of acute monocytic leukemia in the oral cavity: a case report
Authors: Fatahzadeh Mahnaz , Krakow A. Michael
Published: September 2008

This case history describes a 26‐year‐old male with gingival bleeding who presented for care and was treated accordingly. Within a week he developed signs and symptoms of systemic disease and upon further investigation, he was diagnosed with acute monocytic leukemia to which he succumbed within 72 hours. The implications of gingival bleeding are discussed, and the necessity to consider systemic disease in the differential diagnosis is emphasized.
Tuberous sclerosis complex: a case report
Authors: Wong Allen , Subar Paul , Itaya Lisa
Published: September 2008

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) was first described in the late 1800s as a relative of neurofibromatosis, but it has since been identified as a discrete disorder. Patients with TSC typically present with facial adenomas, seizure disorder, and a developmental disability. The syndrome is caused by mutations in either chromosomes 9 or 16, both of which code for cell development and maturation. This case report describes the unique findings of TSC, and suggests areas for future study. By understanding the dental and medical implications of TSC, early intervention may vastly improve a patient's overall quality of life.
Dental utilization for medicaid‐enrolled adults with developmental disabilities in Iowa residential care facilities
Authors: Brister Timothy M. , Damiano Peter C. , Momany Elizabeth T. , Chalmers Jane , Kanellis Michael
Published: September 2008

The goal of this study was to evaluate the dental utilization of Medicaid‐enrolled adults in Iowa residential care facilities (n = 1423). Medicaid enrollment and claims files for 2003 were used, as well as information from the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals. Dental utilization was defined as having any dental visit during 2003. Of the residents, 74.1% utilized at least one dental service in 2003. Residents in facilities that were part of smaller organizations, and younger residents, were more likely to have had a dental visit. Of those with a visit, over 80% received a preventive service but this declined with age. Despite additional barriers, dental utilization was generally good for Medicaid‐enrolled residents of residential care facilities in Iowa. Residents in smaller facilities of smaller organizations received more personalized care. Older residents were less likely to have a parent involved, were more likely to be edentulous, and sought care less frequently.
Clinical and Histological Aspects of CNV Formation: Studies in an Animal Model
Authors: Lassota Nathan
Published: September 2008

The purpose of the present thesis was to develop an animal model of CNV in order to study the early formation of CNV and to test the effects of an anti‐angiogenic treatment. Porcine eyes were chosen as a substrate for CNV induction, since they are similar to human eyes in terms of both macroscopic and microscopic morphology. However, a major difference is that pigs lack a fovea; instead they have a visual streak, with a relatively stable and high concentration of cones. By surgical perforation of Bruch's membrane we were able to induce formation of CNV membranes. The morphology and cellular composition of these membranes varied with the surgical technique employed. When RPE cells were locally removed at the time of perforation, the resulting CNV was thinner, contained fewer blood vessels and was less prone to leak on fluorescein angiography than when RPE cells were left intact at induction. The neuroretina overlying the perforation site was not damaged by any of the surgical techniques, thus allowing the subsequent retinal damage to be ascribed to the actual process of CNV formation. Using this animal model allowed us to directly map histological findings onto fluorescein angiograms and thereby perform meaningful correlations between histopathologic and photographic features. Such correlations have been hampered in human subjects, since human eyes are not enucleated as a consequence of CNV and are therefore only available for post‐mortem studies. In such studies there often is a considerable time‐gap between the death of the patient and the latest available fluorescein angiogram, thereby allowing macular pathology to evolve in the interim. Histological examination of the porcine membranes demonstrated that they were composed of RPE cells, glial cells, macrophages, endothelial cells, collagen and smooth muscle fibres, which are the same cellular and fibrillar elements that dominate human CNV membranes. The porcine model was applied to test the effects, in a randomized and masked fashion, of intravitreally injected bevacizumab. Bevacizumab, a pan VEGF A antibody, was found to reduce both the proliferation of endothelial cells in CNV membranes and the propensity to leak in fluorescein angiograms. Immunohistochemically, bevacizumab was detected in the inner limiting membrane, in retinal blood vessels and binding uniformly to the entire CNV membrane without any cellular predisposition. Based on the above findings we believe that the porcine CNV model shows a bearing to human disease and therefore might be used as a tool to obtain improved treatments for this debilitating condition.
AMD as a genetic & systemic disease
Authors: SCHOLL HPN
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Principles of clinical trials
Authors: WORMALD R
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Design of clinical trials: Introduction to study design and levels of evidence in medicine
Authors: ROSSETTI L
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Operational Aspects: Practical aspects of conducting a trial
Authors: RIBEIRO L
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Summary: Ethical issues in trials
Authors: WORMALD R
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
The taming of the shrew or corneal transplantation: past, present and future
Authors: PLEYER U
Published: September 2008

Keratoplasty has definitely its paradoxes. It has been the first successful transplantation in man and is with approx. 100. 000 grafts/year easily the most frequent allograft in human medicine. At the same time it is still the least understood form of transplantation in respect to its biology. It is both, the most successfull as well as probably the most underestimated procedure regarding its risks in clinical transplantation. Indeed, the common assumtion, that corneal transplantation is a safe procedure with good prognosis may have hindered more intensive effort of research in this field. This lecture aims to highlight significant milestones in the rich history of corneal transplantation, and to pay tribute to the many inspired and dedicated individuals involved in the development of keratoplasty. There are still limitations to corneal transplantation, and corneal allograft rejection still poses the greatest challenge to the modern corneal surgeon. Therefore, particular emphasis will be paid to recent efforts and developments to overcome this challenge.
Regional immunity of the eye: T lymphocytes and ocular pigment epitherial cells
Authors: MOCHIZUKI M
Published: September 2008

Intraocular inflammation is mediated by activated CD4+ T lymphocytes. This notion was classically demonstrated by experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis induced by retinal antigens. In human, activated CD4+ T lymphocytes also play the essential role in the pathogenesis of uveitis. Such examples are Vogt‐Koyanagi‐Harada (VKH) disease and human T‐cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV‐1) uveitis. VKH disease is a classical autoimmune disease specific to melanocytes and activated CD4+ T lymphocytes sensitized to melanocyte‐associated antigen, tyrosinase, are infiltrated in the eye, resulting in ocular inflammation. HTLV‐1 uveitis is an intraocular inflammation caused by inflammatory cytokines produced by HTLV‐1‐infected CD4+ T lymphocytes infiltrating in the eye. Not only these diseases but also many other inflammatory disorders in the eye are mediated by activated CD4+ T lymphocytes. However, the eye has a unique regional immune defense system that protects the eye from sight‐threatening inflammation mediated by activated CD4+ T lymphocytes. Recent studies of our group together with many others indicate that the aqueous humor, the corneal endotherial cells, the ocular pigment epitherial cells of the iris, ciliary body and retina, the vitreous have unique capacity to suppress activated CD4+ T lymphocytes infiltrating in the eye and down‐regulate intraocular inflammation. The immune suppression against infiltrating CD4+ T lymphocytes is caused by both these ocular resident cells and regulatory T cells induced by ocular resident cells through various unique molecules, such as B7‐2, CTLA4, TBF‐β, thrombospondin 1, or CTLA‐2α. One of the most amazing features of this regional defense system in the eye is that molecular mechanisms of each cells and tissues are adapted to its anatomical characteristics and allowing the defense system to exhibit its capacity most efficiently at their site in the eye. For instance, the iris pigment epitherial cells surrounded by aqueous humor down‐regulate activated T lymphocytes via cell‐to‐cell contact mechanisms, but not soluble factors. On the other hand, the retinal pigment epitherial cells surrounded by cells in the retina and choroid exhibit their immunoregulatory function by soluble factors. In this lecture, the molecular mechanisms of the local defense system in the eye, with particular attention to ocular pigment epitherial cells, will be discussed based on our recent studies.
Unraveling the genetics of exfoliation glaucoma
Authors: JONASSON F
Published: September 2008

Purpose To give an account of our recent discovery (2007) of the association of lysyl oxidase like 1 (LOXL1) sequence variants and exfoliation glaucoma (XFG) as well as later replications in other populations.

Methods We did a genome‐wide association study on open angle glaucoma cases and controls using the Illumina 300 chip. This chip includes probes for 317.000 single – nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), that tag, as highly correlated surrogates about 80% of the 2.1 million known common SNPs in the Caucasian genome. For diagnosis of exfoliation syndrome a peripheral band or central shield of exfoliative material on the anterior lens capsule was required.

Results When we had done 195 open angle glaucoma cases high genome wide significance was achieved on chromosome 15q24.1 an association later found to be confined to XFG only. This SNP (rs2165241T) was located in the first intron of the LOXL1 gene. We then added 11 correlated SNPs that are not on the Illumina chip and found that two non‐synonymous variants in the first exon of LOXL1 can jointly account for all the observed association (R141L, OR 2.5; G153D, OR 20.1). Combined the variants explained 99% of the population attributable risk for exfoliation glaucoma.

Conclusion These findings have now largely been confirmed in numerous American, Asian, Australian and European studies, and in all instances do these polymorphisms in the LOXL1 gene confer risk to XFG. LOXL1 is cross linking enzyme responsible for elastin polymer deposition in ocular tissue. The LOXL1 discovery is the first big hit in the search for genetic background for exfoliation glaucoma. These findings may soon influence monitoring of glaucoma suspects in the clinic targeting persons with the high risk haplotypes.
Nitrogen containing bisphosphonates in the treatment of fibrous dysplasia
Authors: DE KEIZER RJW
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Contribution of OCT to evaluate macular disease in JIA associated uveitis
Authors: BODAGHI B , DUCOS G , KODJIKIAN L , TERRADA C , TRAN C , CASSOUX N , LEHOANG P
Published: September 2008

Purpose To examine the frequency and characteristics of macular lesions observed in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) uveitis, using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT).

Methods In this cross‐sectional study, 38 consecutive patients were recruited from a tertiary referral center in uveitis. All eyes with JIA uveitis underwent complete ophthalmic examination including OCT 3. Exclusion criterion was the inability to obtain OCT scans. Flare and visual acuity were also analyzed by using linear regression.

Results We analyzed foveal thickness (FT) and central foveal thickness (CFT) using the software mapping, to describe macular lesions in 61 eyes. Maculopathy was observed in 51 eyes (84%), compared to 12% in the literature (P<0.0001) and comprised four types: perifoveolar thickening in 45 eyes (74%), macular edema in 29 eyes (48%), foveal detachment in 11 eyes (18%), and atrophic changes in 6 eyes (10%). Only 4 eyes did not demonstrate any lesion.

Conclusion Among children with JIA‐uveitis, macular involvement is frequent, and characterized by perifoveolar thickening and serous retinal detachment. OCT is a non‐invasive instrument. It may easily show this maculopathy, which could impair visual function, and conditioned a therapeutic intensification.
Advantages and limits of OCT for inflammatory macular edema
Authors: BOUCHENAKI N
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Advances in optical coherence tomography for age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: NERI P
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Kaplan‐Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression
Authors: KIVELÄ T
Published: September 2008

Purpose To highlight basic concepts related to time‐to‐event data.

Methods Non‐mathematical description of the Kaplan‐Meier product‐limit method and Cox proportional hazards multiple regression with examples from recent literature.

Results Kaplan‐Meier analysis and Cox regression are nonparametric techniques with wide applicability in ophthalmic research. They are appropriate when time‐to‐event data are analyzed (e.g. time to loss of vision, bleb failure, graft rejection) as outcome measure. They are especially efficient when follow‐up times vary, which is common in clinical research. The data needed are time to event or last follow‐up, last status (e.g. experienced the event, under follow‐up, lost to follow‐up, died) and explanatory or confounding variables (e.g. sex, age, type of glaucoma). Subjects who did not experience the event are “censored” at last follow‐up. Censoring must be independent of the probability of experiencing the event, and the subject must remain at risk of the event after censoring. Cox regression additionally requires that the hazard be proportional (i.e. hazard ratio is constant over time). Kaplan‐Meier analysis produces stepped curves which show the cumulative probability of experiencing the event as a function of time by study group; groups can be compared using the log‐rank test or equivalent. Cox regression provides a numerical hazard ratio (e.g. increased or decreased risk of the study group to experience the event relative to the control group), which is adjusted for the effect of other variables included in the regression model.

Conclusion After this talk, participants should be able to recognize time‐to‐event data, interpret studies which use Kaplan‐Meier and Cox regression analysis, and understand when they benefit from these methods in their research.
Cumulative incidence analysis and relative survival
Authors: KIVELÄ T
Published: September 2008

Purpose To highlight concepts related to competing events in time‐to‐event data sets.

Methods Introduction to cumulative incidence and relative survival analyses and competing risks proportional hazards regression with examples from recent literature.

Results Kaplan‐Meier and Cox regression analysis were designed to study mortality. They return biased estimates in the presence of competing events that render subjects immune to the event of interest (e.g. one is no longer at risk of vision loss, bleb failure or graft rejection after dying). Kaplan‐Meier can then be supplemented with cumulative incidence analysis and Cox with competing risks regression. The data needed are time‐to‐event or last follow‐up, last status (e.g. experienced an event, under follow‐up, lost to follow‐up) and explanatory or confounding variables. Subjects who experienced a competing event are treated as such and subjects who did not experience any event are “censored” at last follow‐up. A set of stepped curves is produced which show the cumulative incidence of each event as a function of time by study group; groups can be compared using dedicated tests. Competing risks regression provides a hazard ratio, adjusted for the effect of other variables in the model. Relative survival is an alternative to cumulative incidence method when analyzing mortality. It does not require that the status at last follow‐up be known. Survival of the study group is compared with that of the underlying population. The difference is equivalent to the cumulative incidence of disease‐specific death, but cumulative incidences of competing events are not available.

Conclusion After this talk, participants should be able to recognize competing events, assess whether Kaplan‐Meier and Cox regression were appropriate methods and know alternatives to them.
History
Authors: BOSCHI A
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Ancillary testing and differential diagnosis
Authors: LEE A
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Parasitic corneal infections
Authors: GICQUEL JJ
Published: September 2008

The exposure of the eye directly to the environment renders it vulnerable to a number of uncommon infectious diseases caused by parasites. Once anatomical barriers are breached, host defences are often insufficient to prevent the infection from spreading localy. A fast identification and treatment of the involved microorganisms are necessary. Contact lens wear is associated with keratitis caused Acanthamoebae. Parasitic infections may also arise following bloodborne carriage of the microorganism to the eye or adjacent structures.
Fungal infections
Authors: KESTELYN P
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Introduction to tests and ISCEV standard
Authors: HOLDER GE
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Clinical desicion for and with MRI
Authors: PLANT G
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Management of retinal tumors
Authors: DESJARDINS L
Published: September 2008

The course will include the management of retinoblastoma and the treatment of retinal angiomas. Practical management of retinoblastoma will be described. The techniques of treatment include enucleation, radiotherapy by external beam or proton beam, plaque brachyterapy , chemoreduction and chemothermotherapy, laser treatment and cryotherapy. The techniques will be detailed and the indications will be given. Advance unilateral retinoblastoma is often an indication for enucleation. Conservative management is performed as often as possible especially in bilateral retinoblastoma. We shall give the methods to avoid extra ocular retinoblastoma like orbital recurrence or metastasis. We shall describe the rules for follow up of the patients after treatment and for screening for early diagnosis in familial retinoblastoma. Guidelines for genetic counselling will be also given. Retinal capillary hemangangiomas can be unique or multiple in case on Von Hippel Lindau disease. Treatments of the angiomas include laser therapy and cryotherapy for bigger angiomas Vitrectomy with endolaser can be needed in rare instances and radiotherapy has been used in selected cases. Cavernous hemangiomas of the retina are rare; they usually are stable with no need for therapy.
Orbital tumors
Authors: PRAUSE J
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Spinule number per cone pedicle is a biomarker of predatory behavior in teleosts
Authors: DE JUAN HERRERO J , MARTINEZ‐RUIZ N , ROMERO RAMETA A , INIGUEZ LOBETO CM
Published: September 2008

Purpose Teleots are a successful vertebrate group, constituting more than 50% of vertebrate species. These fishes are the only vertebrate group that presents spinules from the lateral dendrites of retinal Horizontal cells into cone pedicles. A way to study the degree of predatory behavior is measuring patterns of microwear on tooth surfaces. These patterns are related to trophic adaptations and produced by the abrasives in food, during feeding. The aim of this work was to compare the number of spinules per cone pedicle with tooth microwear parameters and predatory behavior, in three families of teleosts.

Methods Light‐adapted fishes were sacrificed and their retinas processed for transmission‐electron‐microscopy studies. The number of spinules, per cone pedicle was measured. Several lower premaxillary teeth from each fish were used for microwear analysis with scanning electron microscopy. We measured the density, mean length, and breadth of micro‐features, of the teeth.

Results The number of spinules per pedicle was two fold greater (≅9 spinules/pedicle) in the moronidae family that in the labridae and sparidae ones (≅4 spinules/pedicle). In turn, the dental microwear parameters presented an inverse relationship to the number spinules per pedicle. The density, mean length and breadth of teeth micro‐features were lower in moronidae family than in labridae and sparidae ones.

Conclusion The amount of spinules per pedicle correlates positively with predatory behavior and negatively with dental microwear parameters. These data support the hypothesis that spinules and microwear are biomarkers of trophic adaptations in teleost fishes. Spanish Grants BFU2004‐03727‐C02‐02 and 01/BFI and GV04B‐521
Diabetic macular edema. Clinical characterization
Authors: CUNHA‐VAZ J
Published: September 2008

The most frequent cause of progressive visual loss due to diabetes is diabetic macular edema. There is retinal edema when there is any increase of water in the retinal tissue resulting in an increase in its volume, i.e., thickness. In diabetes, the inner Blood‐Retinal Barrier (BRB) opens resulting in increasing movements of fluids and molecules into the retina. In a situation of open BRB there is extracellular retinal edema and the situation of immune privilege is altered, creating the conditions for a systemic inflammatory repair response. When the BRB is open, the retinal edema accumulation follows Starling’s law. With an open BRB any loss of equilibrium between hydrostatic, oncotic and tissue pressure gradients across the retinal vessels contribute to increased water movements and more edema formation. We are able to measure changes in retinal thickness and identify, using OCT, the evolution of macular edema. It is possible to follow closely changes in retinal edema and to characterize diabetic macular edema considering: 1. The distribution of the edema. Is it focal or diffuse? 2. Is it recent or chronic? 3. Is the foveola preserved or is it involved and how much? 4. Is the BRB open (vascular leakage)? 5. Are there signs of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) dysfunction? Diffuse edema with RPE signs of damage? 6. Are there OCT “cysts”? A good indicator of low tissue pressure. 7. Are there signs of vitreoretinal traction on OCT? 8. Are there signs of capillary closure and ischemia in the fovea? 9. Are HgA1C values higher than 8%? 10. Is the blood pressure higher than 130/80mm/Hg even after medication?
Perspectives for detection of photoreceptor changes
Authors: SAHEL JA
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Inflammatory markers in diabetic macular
Authors: EDELMAN JL , NEHME A , KIRWIN S
Published: September 2008

Purpose Complications of diabetic retinopathy, such as macular edema, appear to be generated by multiple inflammatory factors that affect the retinal microcirculation. To elucidate the cell types and mechanisms underlying diabetic complications, human retinal microvascular pericytes (HRMP), monocytes (THP‐1), and retinal endothelial cells (HREC) were treated with either high glucose, TNF‐_‐ or IL‐1_, and protein secretion was measured in the presence or absence of dexamethasone (DEX). In addition, retinal levels of several inflammatory proteins were measured in an animal model of diabetes over a 3 month study period.

Methods Cells were incubated for 5 hr (THP‐1) or 24 hr (HRMP, HREC) with medium, TNF‐_‐ (10 ng/ml) or IL‐1_ (10 ng/ml), high glucose (25 mM) in the presence or absence of dexamethasone (10 nM–1 µM). Sprague Dawley rats were rendered diabetic by intraperitoneal STZ administration (65 mg/kg; blood glucose >220 mg/dl after 48h) and age‐matched control rats were sacrificed 7 days, 4 weeks, and 1 month after STZ injection. Eyes were enucleated, snap frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at ‐70°C. In both cell and retinal assays, protein levels (89 for human, 68 for rat) were measured by Rules Based Medicine using their Luminex‐baed human and rodent antigen panels.

Results Compared to control responses, TNF‐_ or IL‐1_ induced a five‐fold or more increase in several inflammation‐associated proteins in each cell type. The number of mediators and extent of increased secretion were greatest in HRMP (≥ five‐fold increase in 33 proteins with TNF‐_ and 29 proteins with IL‐1_). In HRMP and THP‐1 cells, DEX inhibited the secretion of several inflammation‐associated proteins in a dose‐dependent manner. The IC50 for DEX inhibition ranged from 2 nM for some proteins to 1 μM for others, and this differential effect was dependent on cell type and inflammatory stimulator. Of 68 proteins measured in diabetic rat retinae, 9 were significantly elevated at 3 months including beta‐2 macroglobulin, eotaxin, FGF‐2, MCP‐1, MCP‐3, M‐CSF, NGAL, osteopontin, and TIMP‐1. At this time, there was a reproducible but not significant decrease in VEGF expression.

Conclusion Our results support the hypothesis that the early stages of diabetic retinopathy are associated with a subclinical inflammatory response and point to microvascular pericytes as a primary source of these mediators.
Treating inflammation in DME. Combination treatments
Authors: BANDELLO F
Published: September 2008

Abstract not provided
Occlusion therapy
Authors: BERK AT
Published: September 2008

Purpose To present recent researches regarding the efficacy of ambliyopia treatment with patching.

Methods Various treatment options are reviewed, results from randomized clinical trials and controversies in the field will be discussed.

Results The evidence based knowledge for ambliyopia treatment is rapidly evolving.Indications of patching, adverse effects of occlusion treatment and compliance for patching and how compliance can be maximized, treatment factors including type and dose of treatment, method of treatment termination, age effect on treatment will be covered during the panel .

Conclusion Ambliyopia is still the leading cause of visual impairment in children, but it is treatable with several different treatment modalities and occlusion is one of the widely used and well known.
Medical treatment
Authors: CAMPOS E
Published: September 2008

Purpose To present an update on medical treatment of amblyopia and to review recent progress in this field.

Methods Various treatment modalities are reviewed, with particular emphasis to dopaminergic agents. The effect of cytycoline through various ways of administration will be discussed in detail.

Results Evidence will be brought of improvement in visual function attributable to medical treatment alone or in association with part‐time occlusion. Potential adverse effects will be discussed, as well as characteristics of visual function modifications obtained. Possible guide‐lines for medical treatment of amblyopia will be offered.

Conclusion It appears that medical treatment can be usefully included in the armamentarium for amblyopia therapy, particularly in difficult cases. Recently published animal experimental data on substances capable of delaying plasticity of the visual system in adults, will be hopefully transferred shortly to humans.