bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxygen‐sensing pathway for SK channels in the ovine adrenal medulla
Authors: Keating Damien J , Rychkov Grigori Y , Giacomin Paul , Roberts Michael L
Published: September 2005

1. The intracellular pathways that modulate the opening of oxygen‐sensitive ion channels during periods of hypoxia are poorly understood. Different tissues appear to use either NADPH oxidase or a rotenone‐sensitive mechanism as an oxygen sensor. The aim of the present study was to identify the oxygen‐sensing pathway in the oxygen‐sensitive sheep adrenal medullary chromaffin cell (AMCC).

2. The whole‐cell patch‐clamp technique was used to measure K+ currents in dissociated adult ovine chromaffin cells as well as SK channel currents expressed in the H4IIE cell line.

3. Diphenyliodonium, an inhibitor of NADPH oxidase, had no effect on the hypoxia‐evoked closure of K+ channels in primary AMCC, whereas the mitochondrial inhibitor rotenone abolished the hypoxia‐evoked response. Both these compounds significantly reduced K+ current amplitude under normoxic conditions.

4. One possible mechanism through which the oxygen sensor may modulate K+ channel activity is by altering the redox state of the cell. In sheep AMCC, altering the redox state by the addition of H2O2 to the extracellular solution increased K+ conductance.

5. The oxygen‐sensitive K+ (Ko2) channels in sheep chromaffin cells are from the SK family and the whole‐cell conductance of cells expressing mouse SK2 or SK3, but not human SK1, was increased by H2O2 and decreased by the reducing agent dithiothreitol.

6. These studies show that, in sheep AMCC, Ko2 channels are modulated via a rotenone‐sensitive mechanism and that alteration of the cellular redox state mimics the change produced by alterations in Po2. In a heterologous expression system, SK2 and SK3 channels, the channels that initiate hypoxia‐evoked changes in AMCC function, are modulated appropriately by changes in cellular redox state.
Antimutagenic and anti‐oxidant activities of the non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug celecoxib
Authors: Ajith TA , Subin JP , Jacob J , Sanjay PS , Babitha NV
Published: September 2005

1. Tumors arise and progress through the accumulation of serial genetic changes, including successive mutations, which involve activation of proto‐oncogenes and inactivation of tumour suppressor genes, leading to the uncontrolled proliferation of progeny cells. The human body is continuously and unavoidably exposed to structurally diverse chemicals with established carcinogenic activity in animal models and/or mutagenic activity in short‐term tests.

2. Celecoxib, a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug that specifically inhibits the enzyme cyclo‐oxygenase‐2, has been reported to be effective against certain types of cancers. The in vitro anti‐oxidant and antimutagenic activities of the celecoxib were investigated in the present study using standard procedures.

3. The antimutagenic activity of celecoxib was determined using histidine mutant Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98, TA100, TA102 and TA1535 against directly acting mutagens (sodium azide (NaN3), N‐methyl‐N′‐nitro‐N‐nitrosoguanidine (MNNG), 4‐nitro‐o‐phenylenediamine (NPDA) and doxorubicin) and mutagens needing activation (2‐acetamidofluorene (2‐AF) and 7,12‐dimethylbenz [a] anthracene (DMBA)).

4. Celecoxib inhibited NaN3‐, MNNG‐ and NPDA‐induced mutations of TA100. The antimutagenicity of celecoxib (0.2 mg/plate) against the NaN3‐induced mutation of TA1535 was 39.8% (P < 0.001). The MNNG‐induced mutation of TA1535 was also inhibited by 0.3 mg/plate celecoxib (46.0%; P < 0.05). At concentrations of 0.2 mg/plate, celecoxib significantly inhibited NPDA‐ and doxorubicin‐induced mutations of TA98 by 52.5 and 58.0%, respectively (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively).

5. The antimutagenic activity of 0.3 mg/plate celecoxib against 2‐AF‐ and DMBA‐induced mutations of TA98 was 81.76 and 98.1%, respectively (P < 0.001).

6. The anti‐oxidant activity of celecoxib was determined by the inhibition of lipid peroxidation and superoxide and hydroxyl radical‐scavenging activities.

7. The IC50 values of celecoxib for hydroxyl radical‐scavenging and the inhibition of lipid peroxidation were 1.97 ± 0.06 and 1.99 ± 0.05 µmol/mL, respectively. Celecoxib had no superoxide radical scavenging‐activity up to a concentration of 2.6 µmol/mL.

8. The in vitro antimutagenic and anti‐oxidant activities of celecoxib indicate its possible therapeutic use as a cancer chemopreventive agent.
Operative contractility: A functional concept of the inotropic state
Authors: Curiel Roberto , Perez‐Gonzalez Juan , Torres Edwar , Landaeta Ruben , Cerrolaza Miguel
Published: September 2005

1. Initial unsuccessful attempts to evaluate ventricular function in terms of the ‘heart as a pump’ led to focusing on the ‘heart as a muscle’ and to the concept of myocardial contractility. However, no clinically ideal index exists to assess the contractile state. The aim of the present study was to develop a mathematical model to assess cardiac contractility.

2. A tri‐axial system was conceived for preload (PL), afterload (AL) and contractility, where stroke volume (SV) was represented as the volume of the tetrahedron. Based on this model, ‘operative’ contractility (‘OperCon’) was calculated from the readily measured values of PL, AL and SV. The model was tested retrospectively under a variety of different experimental and clinical conditions, in 71 studies in humans and 29 studies in dogs. A prospective echocardiographic study was performed in 143 consecutive subjects to evaluate the ability of the model to assess contractility when SV and PL were measured volumetrically (mL) or dimensionally (cm).

3. With inotropic interventions, OperCon changes were comparable to those of ejection fraction (EF), velocity of shortening (Vcf) and dP/dt‐max. Only with positive inotropic interventions did elastance (Ees) show significantly larger changes. With load manipulations, OperCon showed significantly smaller changes than EF and Ees and comparable changes to Vcf and dP/dt‐max. Values of OperCon were similar when AL was represented by systolic blood pressure or wall stress and when volumetric or dimensional values were used.

4. Operative contractility is a reliable, simple and versatile method to assess cardiac contractility.
Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the lacrimal gland
Authors: Hotta Kazuki , Arisawa Takeshi , Mito Hidenori , Narita Makoto
Published: September 2005

Abstract

A 55‐year‐old Japanese woman presented with proptosis of the left eye that showed rapid progression with profound lid oedema and chemosis with pain. Magnetic resonance imaging and helical computed tomography demonstrated a large mass of the upper temporal orbit and extended bony destruction of the frontal and zygomatic bones. She was successfully treated with orbital exenteration. A diagnosis of primary squamous cell carcinoma of the lacrimal gland was made, which was confirmed by characteristic findings seen on histopathological examination.
Acute annular outer retinopathy
Authors: Mitamura Yoshinori , Ito Hiroki , Nakamura Yasushi , Fujiwara Osamutaro , Ohtsuka Kenji
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Acute annular outer retinopathy is an uncommon disorder of uncertain aetiology characterized by a unilateral visual field defect with an irregular annular band of grey‐white, deep retinal opacification in a peripapillary location. Acute annular outer retinopathy is considered to be a variant of acute zonal occult outer retinopathy. The case is reported of acute annular outer retinopathy with spontaneous good visual recovery and no ophthalmoscopic sequelae.
Ocular toxoplasmosis in pregnancy
Authors: Kump Leila I , Androudi Sofia N , Foster CS
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Purpose:  To describe the course of ocular toxoplasmosis during pregnancy.

Methods:  This study was a retrospective, non‐comparative case series of four pregnant women who were treated for ocular toxoplasmosis during pregnancy.

Results:  All of the participants had severe and treatment‐resistant toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis during pregnancy, leaving three of them with decreased visual acuity in spite of aggressive therapy. Delivery of the infant appeared to help the recovery in two patients.

Conclusions:  Pregnant state may provoke the recurrence of ocular toxoplasmosis.
Infliximab for juvenile idiopathic arthritis‐associated uveitis
Authors: Richards Josephine C , Tay‐Kearney Mei‐Ling , Murray Kevin , Manners Prue
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Background:  Infliximab is a murine–human recombinant antitumour necrosis factor monoclonal antibody recently introduced for the treatment of autoimmune diseases in which tumour necrosis factor is thought to be a key mediator. Its role in the treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis‐associated uveitis is as yet undefined.

Methods:  Six children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis‐associated uveitis, inadequately controlled on currently available therapy, were treated with infliximab between September 2002 and November 2004. All children were required to remain on low‐dose immunomodulatory treatment in conjunction with the infliximab. A retrospective review of two electronic databases containing details of ophthalmology and rheumatology visits was conducted.

Results:  In all six children, institution of infliximab therapy was associated with increased ease of management. Ocular inflammation and intraocular pressure control improved in all. It was also possible to reduce the dose or withdraw some glaucoma, steroid and other immunomodulatory drugs. Two children underwent intraocular surgery without noticeable flare of intraocular inflammation. No patient developed any serious systemic complications attributable to infliximab.

Conclusion:  Infliximab may be a useful adjunct to the management of refractory juvenile idiopathic arthritis‐associated uveitis. In our series it was associated with improved uveitis control and simplification of drug use as well as possibly improving safety of surgical intervention. This study suggests that its role is likely to be in conjunction with maintenance immunomodulatory treatment to provide more optimal disease control. Controlled studies are required to confirm its efficacy and safety, and the potential breadth of its use in uveitis and related disorders.
Anaesthesia techniques for cataract surgery: a survey of delegates to the Congress of the International Council of Ophthalmology, 2002
Authors: Eichel Robert , Goldberg Ivan
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Background:  Cataract surgery is performed using various regional, local, or topical anaesthetic techniques and agents and general anaesthesia. As there is continuous change in the popularity of these techniques, an estimate of current anaesthetic practices for cataract surgery around the world was derived. This allows comparison of techniques and practices internationally and may serve as a baseline for future surveys.

Methods:  At the 2002 Congress of the International Council of Ophthalmology held in Sydney, Australia, ophthalmic surgeons from around the world were surveyed with regard to their anaesthetic techniques for cataract surgery.

Results:  It was found that almost all cataract surgery was performed using regional anaesthesia. Surgeons performed just over half of the anaesthetics; however, in some countries anaesthetists performed the vast majority of eye anaesthetics. The most frequently employed technique was the peribulbar block, but a substantial minority were performed under topical anaesthesia. An anaesthesia‐trained person monitored most patients during cataract surgery, and the most commonly used local anaesthetic was lignocaine.

Conclusion:  Although there is a single most frequent practice in the type of regional block employed for cataract surgery among the delegates, and general anaesthesia is seldom used, individual countries have very different results regarding the anaesthetic used and the role of the anaesthetist.
Iris ischaemic changes and visual outcome after acute primary angle closure
Authors: Loon Seng‐Chee , Chew Paul TK , Oen Francis TS , Chan Yiong‐Huak , Wong Hon‐Tym , Seah Steve KL , Aung Tin
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Background:  Ischaemic changes in the iris occur frequently after an episode of acute primary angle closure (APAC). The aim of this study was to investigate the significance of such changes with regards to visual outcome.

Methods:  Acute primary angle closure cases were treated with medical therapy followed by laser peripheral iridotomy after resolution of the acute episode. Subjects were examined at 1, 4, 8, 12 and 16 weeks post laser peripheral iridotomy. Eyes were examined for signs of iris ischaemic changes (IIC), defined as the presence of iris whorling or stromal atrophy. Iris photographs were also taken at weeks 1, 8 and 16. Subjects requiring glaucoma medication or filtering surgery during the follow‐up period were excluded. The visual acuity and visual field (using automated white‐on‐white threshold perimetry) at week 16 were used in the assessment of visual outcome.

Results:  Sixty‐one subjects with APAC completed the study. The majority of subjects were female (82%) and Chinese (92%), and the mean age was 59 ± 8.8 years. More than half the subjects (52.5%) were found to have developed IIC during the study, 65% of whom already had signs of IIC by the first week. Only 13 subjects (41%) with IIC and 6 subjects (21%) without IIC had an abnormal visual field defect at week 16 (P = 0.09). There was also no difference in visual acuity at week 16, the majority of subjects in both groups having visual acuity of 6/12 or better.

Conclusions:  The development of iris ischaemic changes after a single episode of APAC may not be associated with an adverse visual outcome.
Prevalence and mechanism of appositional angle closure in acute primary angle closure after iridotomy
Authors: Yeung Barry YM , Ng Philip WC , Chiu Thomas YH , Tsang Chi Wai , Li Felix CH , Chi Chung Chai , Lai Jimmy SM , Tham Clement CY , Lam Dennis SC
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Purpose:  A prospective observational case series to assess the prevalence of appositional angle closure in darkness among iridotomized Chinese eyes after acute primary angle closure (APAC) with the use of both clinical methods and ultrasound biomicroscopy.

Methods:  Sixteen Chinese patients who had history of APAC and subsequent successful treatment with laser peripheral iridotomy were examined. Fourteen additional control subjects were studied. Gonioscopy and ultrasound biomicroscopic examination were performed in the dark. Gonioscopic appearance of the angle was assessed, and quantitative measurements of the angle from the ultrasound biomicroscopic images were taken.

Results:  Of the APAC eyes 55.6% had appositionally closed angle clinically and in 38.9% only Schwalbe's line was visi‐ble on gonioscopy. Ultrasound biomicroscopy confirmed structurally different anterior segments between eyes with APAC and the control eyes. In particular, the trabecular‐ciliary‐process distances were markedly different between the two groups.

Conclusion:  This study documented a high prevalence of appositional closure in iridotomized eyes after APAC in Chinese patients. The anteriorly positioned ciliary body, as documented in these cases by ultrasound biomicroscopy, is the likely mechanism of the angle crowding in this patient population.
Filtering blebs imaging by optical coherence tomography
Authors: Savini Giacomo , Zanini Maurizio , Barboni Piero
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Purpose:  To assess the ability of standard optical coherence tomography to visualize filtering blebs after glaucoma surgery.

Methods:  A prospective interventional case series was conducted in a private practice. Twenty‐nine eyes of 24 patients (21 with good, 2 with fair and 6 with poor intraocular pressure [IOP] control) were investigated. After the focus was manually adjusted on the conjunctiva, blebs were scanned perpendicularly to the limbus.

Results:  Hyporeflective fluid‐filled spaces were detected in 19 out of the 21 eyes with good IOP. Within this group, blebs were classified into three different categories according to their optical coherence tomography pattern: type A (featuring a thick wall and a single large fluid‐filled space), type B (featuring a thin wall and multiple large fluid‐filled spaces) and type C (featuring multiple, irregular and flattened fluid‐filled spaces). Fluid‐filled spaces were not observed in three out of the six eyes with poor IOP control. Trabeculectomy without antimetabolites was associated with type A blebs (P = 0.015, Fisher's exact test), mitomycin‐C trabeculectomy with type B blebs (P = 0.0025) and mitomycin‐C phacotrabeculectomy with type C blebs (P = 0.0173).

Conclusions:  Although it was not developed to evaluate the anterior segment of the eye, standard optical coherence tomography can visualize filtering blebs and reveal interesting details of their morphology. Clinicians using optical coherence tomography to diagnose glaucoma can take advantage of this ability of the instrument to obtain more information about their patients in the postoperative course of trabeculectomy and phacotrabeculectomy.
New Zealand experience of I125 brachytherapy for choroidal melanoma
Authors: Stack Rebecca , Elder Mark , Abdelaal Al , Hidajat Rudy , Clemett Richard
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Purpose:  To examine patient survival, visual function and complications in all patients with choroidal melanoma treated with I125 brachytherapy between 1995 and 2003 at the authors’ institution. To compare the results from their institution with those from international series.

Methods:  Data were collected on 92 consecutive patients. Dosimetry was calculated for the lens, fovea, optic nerve and tumour apex. Follow‐up status of each patient domiciled outside the treatment centre was analysed from a postal questionnaire.

Results:  Average pretreatment tumour dimensions were 3.9 mm (thickness) and 15.2 mm (diameter). Complete follow‐up data were available on 92% of patients. Regression of tumour occurred in 88% of cases. Five enucleations were performed. There were five melanoma‐related deaths. Visual acuity remained >6/12 in 35% of patients and >6/60 in 51% of patients. The most frequently observed complication was radiation retinopathy (maculopathy 23%, peripheral retinopathy 17%). Radiation cataract was seen in 11% and optic neuropathy in 10%. Dose of more than 90 Gy to the macula gave a 63% chance of developing maculopathy (P < 0.01). A tumour larger than 4 mm significantly increased the risk of developing radiation maculopathy (P = 0.003). Development of radiation cataract was dose‐related; >25 Gy to the lens gave a 44% risk of cataract development (P < 0.001). For tumours less than 4 mm from the disc margin there was a 50% risk of optic neuropathy (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:  Patient outcomes following brachytherapy were excellent with a high percentage of patients retaining mobility vision. Development of complications was related to the tumour location and dose to non‐tumour structures.
25‐Gauge transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy system in the surgical management of children with posterior capsular opacification
Authors: Lam Dennis SC , Fan Dorothy SP , Mohamed Shaheeda , Yu Christopher BO , Zhang Shao‐bin , Chen Wei‐qi
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Purpose:  To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the 25‐gauge transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy (TSV) system in the surgical management of posterior capsular opacification (PCO) in pseudophakic children.

Methods:  Pars plana membranectomy was performed for PCO in 10 pseudophakic eyes of six children (mean age 35.1 ± 37.8 months; range 6–93 months) using the TSV system. Surgical technique, intraoperative problems and postoperative complications including wound leakage, hypotony and the need for suturing were recorded.

Results:  Wound leakage and other intraoperative problems were not noted in any of the eyes. All eyes showed improvement of visual acuity from a mean of 6/67 before to 6/29 after surgery (P = 0.001). Mean postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) was 7.8 ± 3.1 mmHg (range: 3–10 mmHg). Four eyes (40%) had hypotony on the first postoperative day (IOP: 3–5 mmHg), which was transient in three eyes. One eye in a patient with uveitis had persistent hypotony, but hypotony was also present preoperatively, and the postoperative IOP returned to preoperative levels. This eye also developed recurrent PCO and a second capsulotomy was performed using the 25‐gauge TSV system.

Conclusions:  Posterior capsulotomy using the 25‐gauge TSV system appears to be a safe and effective approach in the management of PCO in pseudophakic children. Advantages include easier manipulation with the smaller instruments in these small eyes, and it can be considered in appropriate cases.
Effect of fixation tasks on multifocal visual evoked potentials
Authors: Martins Alessandra , Klistorner Alexander , Graham Stuart , Billson Frank
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Purpose:  This study investigated the effects of cognitive influence on the multifocal visual evoked potential (mVEP) at different levels of eccentricity. Three different foveal fixation conditions were utilized involving varying levels of task complexity. A more complex visual fixation task has been known to suppress peripheral signals in subjective testing.

Methods:  Twenty normal subjects had monocular mVEPs recorded using the AccuMap objective perimeter. This allowed simultaneous stimulation of 58 segments of the visual field to an eccentricity of 24°. The mVEP was recorded using three different fixation conditions in random order. During task 1 the subject passively viewed the central fixation area. For task 2 alternating numbers were displayed within the fixation area; the subject on viewing the number ‘3’ in the central fixation area indicated recognition by pressing a button. Throughout task 3, numbers were displayed as in task 2. The subject had the cognitive task of summating all the numbers.

Results:  Analysis revealed that the increased attention and concentration demanded by tasks 2 and 3 in comparison with task 1 resulted in significantly enhanced central amplitudes of 9.41% (Mann–Whitney P = 0.0002) and 13.45% (P = 0.0002), respectively. These amplitudes became reduced in the periphery and approached those of task 1, resulting in no significant difference between the three tasks. Latencies demonstrated no significant difference between each task nor at any eccentricity (P > 0.05). As the complexity of each task increased the amount of alpha rhythm was significantly reduced.

Conclusions:  Our findings indicate that task 1 required a minimal demand of cognition and was associated with the greatest amount of alpha rhythm. It was also the most difficult to perform because of loss of interest. The other two tasks required a greater demand of higher order cognitive skills resulting in significantly enhanced amplitudes centrally and the attenuation of alpha rhythm. Therefore, amplitudes are increased around the area of attention.
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase 677 C‐T and homocysteine levels in Turkish patients with pseudoexfoliation
Authors: Turaçli M Erol , Tekeli Oya , Özdemir Filiz , Akar Nejat
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Purpose:  The 677 C‐T polymorphism in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene is associated with hyperhomocysteinaemia. This study aimed to investigate the frequency of MTHFR 677 C‐T polymorphism and homocysteine (Hcy) levels in Turkish patients with pseudoexfoliation (PEX).

Methods:  This prospective study consisted of 60 patients with PEX glaucoma, 16 with PEX syndrome and 34 controls. All patients and control subjects were of Turkish origin. All participants underwent a complete ophthalmic examination. Plasma Hcy levels were measured using fluorescence polarization immunoassay (Abbott Diagnostics). Hyperhomocysteinaemia was defined as a plasma Hcy level above 14 µmol/L. MTHFR 677 C‐T was genotyped by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (Roche Diagnostics).

Results:  There was no statistically significant difference in patient and control groups for the age and sex (P > 0.05). The mean plasma Hcy levels were 15.76, 14.98 and 17.43 µmol/L in patients with PEX glaucoma, with PEX syndrome and controls, respectively. No significant differences between Hcy levels among the three groups (P > 0.05) were found. MTHFR 677 polymorphism did not show significant differences between the total patients with PEX (PEX glaucoma + PEX syndrome) and control subjects (CC: 51.3%n = 39, CT: 40.8%n = 31, TT: 7.9%n = 6 for patients with PEX; CC: 52.9%n = 18, CT: 35.3:%n = 12, TT: 11.8%n = 4 for controls) (P > 0.05). Frequency of T allele was 28.28% and 29.41% for the total patients with PEX and controls, respectively.

Conclusion:  In Turkish patients with PEX, the authors could not find any association between Hcy levels, MTHFR 677 C‐T polymorphism, and the disease.
Fibrin glue in the management of corneal melt
Authors: Sii Freda , Lee Graham A
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Human fibrin glue aids physiological healing thereby reducing corneal vascularization and scarring compared with cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive. A 40‐year‐old intellectually disabled man with a corneal melt is reported who was managed successfully using human fibrin glue, alleviating the need for emergency penetrating keratoplasty.
Serial autofluorescence imaging over two years following indocyanine green‐assisted internal limiting membrane peel for macular hole
Authors: Kersey Thomas L , Bolton Anne , Patel CK
Published: September 2005

Abstract

A 65‐year‐old patient with an idiopathic full‐thickness macular hole underwent a vitrectomy, inner limiting membrane (ILM) peel and gas tamponade. The ILM was stained using 0.5% indocyanine green (ICG). Postoperative autofluorescence imaging shows a central focal hyperfluorescence surrounded by a perifoveal hypofluoresecnt area corresponding to the dyed and peeled ILM. Serial autofluorescence images showed progressive decrease in staining until 2 years later when no signs of ICG autofluorescence were apparent. The visual acuity for this patient improved two Snellen lines from 6/36 to 6/18 at 2 years. ICG may not be clinically toxic as is currently feared.
Absent upper eyelid skin crease: a sign of hypoglobus
Authors: Toh Tze’Yo , Weatherhead Robert G
Published: September 2005

Abstract

The association of an absent upper eyelid skin crease on downgaze with hypoglobus has not been described in the literature before. Herein a case of silent sinus syndrome that demonstrates this sign is described. The possible mechanism of such a sign is discussed.
Management of subconjunctival haematoma by tissue plasminogen activator
Authors: Mimura Tatsuya , Yamagami Satoru , Funatsu Hideharu , Usui Tomohiko , Ono Kyoko , Araie Makoto , Amano Shiro
Published: September 2005

Abstract

A patient with subconjunctival haematoma related to enterovirus 70 who was treated with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is reported. A 46‐year‐old man developed a severe subconjunctival haematoma and discharge in the left eye. Investigations, including coagulation tests, showed no abnormalities apart from a high‐serum antibody titre for enterovirus 70. The polymerase chain reaction demonstrated enterovirus 70 DNA in resected conjunctival tissue, leading to a diagnosis of acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis. The left eye was treated with a single subconjunctival injection of tPA (16 000 IU) and the subconjunctival haematoma resolved completely after 3 days. Severe subconjunctival haematoma can occur in patients with acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis due to enterovirus 70. Subconjunctival injection of tPA may be useful for the treatment of severe subconjunctival haematoma.
Use of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide injection in unilateral idiopathic juxtafoveal telangiectasis
Authors: Li Kenneth KW , Goh Terence YH , Parsons Hugh , Chan Wai Man , Lam Dennis SC
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Idiopathic juxtafoveal telangiectasis (IJT) is one of the primary retinal telangiectasia that can result in visual impairment attributed to resultant cystoid macular oedema and rarely, choroidal neovascularization. The authors herein report successful treatment using intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide in a case of unilateral IJT that did not respond to prior laser photocoagulation. Serial optical coherence tomography was used to monitor the effectiveness of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide in the treatment of IJT.
Severe loss of vision after removal of cataract caused by intravitreal triamcinolone in combination with photodynamic therapy for exudative age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Larsson Jörgen , Gillies Mark C
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Intravitreal triamcinolone has been suggested as an adjunctive to photodynamic therapy in the treatment of exudative macular degeneration. One of the side‐effects of intravitreal triamcinolone is the development of cataract, and it is known that cataract extraction can exacerbate macular degeneration. A case is presented where combined intravitreal triamcinolone and photodynamic therapy stopped the progression of the exudative macular degeneration. Subsequent progression of cataract required cataract extraction, which resulted in a very rapid progression of the exudative macular degeneration and loss of vision.
Primary treatment of choroidal amelanotic melanoma with photodynamic therapy
Authors: Donaldson Mark J , Lim Lyndell , Harper C Alex , Mackenzie John , G Campbell William
Published: September 2005

Abstract

The management of choroidal melanoma involves a delicate balance between preserving vision and preventing metastasis. Plaque brachytherapy has become standard management of most small lesions; however, this can result in radiation retinopathy and optic neuropathy. Transpupillary thermotherapy avoids these side‐effects; however, it can also result in visual loss and its effectiveness is limited in amelanotic lesions. Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin has shown promise in animal studies of choroidal melanoma, and has recently been used in the management of lesions that have failed to respond to conventional therapy. The authors report a case of primary treatment of a small choroidal amelanotic melanoma with photodynamic therapy using verteporfin.
Solitary infantile myofibroma of the orbital bone
Authors: Nam Dong Heun , Moon Hyun Seung , Chung Dong Hae , Baek Se Hyun
Published: September 2005

Abstract

Infantile myofibroma of the orbit is an extremely rare condition. Only a few instances of this condition have ever been reported. A 3‐year‐old boy visited our clinic with lateral lower eyelid swelling and a palpable mass in the left eye, which had apparently persisted for 2 months. A computed tomography scan revealed a well‐circumscribed mass in the inferolateral orbital portion of the zygomatic bone, coupled with erosion of bone and orbital extension with reactive hyperostosis. Immunohistochemical stains proved positive for smooth muscle actin, supporting the diagnosis of solitary infantile myofibroma of the orbital bone (zygoma). Although rarely found in the orbit, solitary infantile myofibroma can display more aggressive or malignant neoplasm. Immunohistochemistry is integral to the differential diagnosis and a systemic evaluation for multicentric myofibroma is essential.
Selection, teaching and training in ophthalmology
Authors: Benjamin Larry
Published: September 2005

Abstract

This article examines the training requirements for ophthalmic surgical training, and the selection, assessment and training methodologies used for trainees, and also comments on the role of the surgical trainers. As an introduction to the article, a brief description of the current scheme in the UK is given.
Participation of octopaminergic reward system and dopaminergic punishment system in insect olfactory learning revealed by pharmacological study
Authors: Unoki Sae , Matsumoto Yukihisa , Mizunami Makoto
Published: September 2005

Biogenic amines play major roles in the regulation of behavior in vertebrates and invertebrates. Previous studies in honey bees and fruit‐flies Drosophila suggested that octopamine (OA, invertebrate counterpart of noradrenaline) and dopamine (DA) participate in appetitive olfactory conditioning with sucrose reward and aversive olfactory conditioning with electric shock punishment, respectively. In order to determine whether the effects of the two chatecholamines on electric shock and sugar learning can be generalized to other kinds of appetitive and aversive reinforcers, we studied the effects of OA and DA receptor antagonists on appetitive olfactory learning with water reward, and aversive olfactory learning with saline punishment in the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus. Crickets injected with epinastine or mianserin, OA receptor antagonists, into the hemolymph exhibited an impairment of appetitive learning with water reward, while aversive learning with saline punishment remained intact. In contrast, fluphenazine, chlorpromazine or spiperone, DA receptor antagonists, impaired aversive learning without affecting appetitive learning. This finding, combined with findings in previous studies, suggests that the octopaminergic reward system and dopaminergic punishment system participate in insect olfactory learning with various appetitive and aversive reinforcements.
EU Anti‐dumping Measures against ASEAN Countries: Impact on Trade Flows*
Authors: Cuyvers Ludo , Dumont Michel
Published: September 2005

In the present paper, anti‐dumping (AD) duties levied by the European Commission against products from ASEAN countries in the period 1991–2001 have been considered. The ASEAN countries were among the countries most targeted by AD measures imposed by the EU in the 1990s. A panel regression has been applied to estimate the impact of AD duties on trade in some 12 products that have been subject to AD duties targeting ASEAN countries in the period considered. A significant negative impact of AD duties is found, on both the value and the quantity of imports from ASEAN countries. Our estimation provides some (although not overwhelming) indications of trade diversion in favor of EU countries, but no evidence of trade diversion in favor of non‐targeted non‐EU countries.
Technological Capability and FDI in Asia: Firm‐level Relationships among Japanese Manufacturers*
Authors: Tomiura Eiichi
Published: September 2005

The present paper reexamines the relationship between technological capabilities and FDI decisions at the firm level. The data cover 118 300 Japanese firms in all manufacturing industries. The R&D of Japanese firms has a noticeably weaker relationship with FDI in Asia than with FDI in industrial countries. This finding is confirmed to be robust even when alternative estimation techniques are used and when R&D expenditure data are replaced by patent data. The estimation results also reveal non‐negligible fixed entry costs for FDI, a finding consistent with the observation that only approximately 2 percent of the firms invest abroad.
Wives’ Value of Time and Food Consumed Away from Home in Taiwan*
Authors: Keng Shao‐Hsun , Lin Chun‐Hung
Published: September 2005

In the present paper, we examine the relationship between wives’ value of time and expenditures on food away from home (FAFH) in Taiwan between 1983 and 2000. An endogenous switching regression model is used to model the household's consumption decision on FAFH. The empirical results show that wives’ value of time, household income, presence of young children and grandparents, and wives’ educational attainment are important factors for both participation in consuming and amount spent on FAFH. The income elasticities of FAFH have increased from 0.09 to 0.17 over the sample period. Moreover, other things being equal, the level of spending on FAFH has also increased over time. The results suggest that there has been a structural change in the consumption pattern of FAFH by families in Taiwan.
Deterioration of Firm Balance Sheet and Investment Behavior: Evidence from Panel Data on Thai Firms*
Authors: Rungsomboon Suvadee
Published: September 2005

Using firm‐level data, the present paper investigates whether, and to what extent, firm balance sheet problems mattered for investment over the period 1992–2002. Various categories of firms are compared, with firms grouped according to their a priori degree of liquidity constraint. Firms are also divided into pre‐crisis and post‐crisis periods to examine the impact of the financial crisis on firms’ investments. The results support the existence of the balance sheet channel and suggest that Thai firms faced greater liquidity constraints following the financial crisis. Small firms and non‐bond‐issuing firms are found to have been more adversely affected by the crisis than large firms and bond‐issuing firms.
The facial pattern of disgust, appetence, excited joy and relaxed joy: An improved facial EMG study
Authors: WOLF KARSTEN , MASS REINHARD , INGENBLEEK THOMAS , KIEFER FALK , NABER DIETER , WIEDEMANN KLAUS
Published: September 2005

The purpose of the study was to investigate the facial muscle pattern of disgust in comparison to appetence and joy, using an improved facial EMG method. We analyzed the activity of nine facial muscles in forty healthy subjects. The subject group was randomly divided into two groups (oversaturated vs. hungry) of ten women and ten men each. Four different emotions (disgust, appetence, excited‐joy and relaxed‐joy) were induced by showing pictures from the IAPS. Pre‐visible facial muscle activity was measured with a new facial EMG. A Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was established. Disgust is represented by a specific facial muscle pattern involving M.corrugator and M.orbicularis oculi, clearly distinguishing it from the facial patterns of appetence and joy. The intensity of disgust is stronger in a state of hunger than under oversaturation and is altogether stronger in females than in males. Our findings indicate the possibility to explore the entire emotion system successfully through a state‐of‐the‐art psychophysiological method like our EMG device.
Parenting, achievement strategies and satisfaction in ice hockey
Authors: JUNTUMAA BIRGITTA , KESKIVAARA PERTTI , PUNAMÄKI RAIJA‐LEENA
Published: September 2005

The aim of this study is to understand adolescent players’ satisfaction as a function of parenting styles, players’ achievement strategies, and their norm breaking behavior. Finnish 14‐ and 16‐year‐old ice‐hockey players (n= 1018) completed a questionnaire measuring their achievement strategies (SAQ; Nurmi, Salmela‐Aro & Haavisto, 1995b), as well as scales of norm breaking and satisfaction, prepared for the present study. The parents (n= 979) filled in scales measuring their parenting styles (CRPR; Pulkkinen, 1996) and attitudes towards norm breaking. Results revealed that players from authoritative families who showed a high level of mastery‐orientation expressed high satisfaction in playing ice hockey. Results also showed negative associations between authoritative parenting and both task irrelevant and norm breaking behavior. Parents with parental stress and those with authoritarian parenting styles showed positive attitudes to norm breaking behavior, and players from authoritarian and parental stress homes showed norm breaking behavior in ice hockey. There was no association between norm breaking behavior and player satisfaction. Our results contribute to the planning of a coaching system that serves more educational and developmental purposes, and that encourages the desire to play ice hockey as a hobby.
Infant temperament and maternal sensitivity behavior in the first year of life
Authors: KIVIJÄRVI MARJA , RÄIHÄ HANNELE , KALJONEN ANNE , TAMMINEN TUULA , PIHA JORMA
Published: September 2005

Maternal sensitivity behavior (MSB) and infant temperament were investigated among 56 Finnish low‐risk mothers and their full‐term and healthy infants. The mothers were from families with good economic status, the infant's parents lived together, and the mothers were well educated. Mothers and infants were video‐recorded in free‐play situations at home, and evaluated using the Parent‐Child Early Relational Assessment Scale (PCERA). The infants were also assessed using the Revised Infant Temperament Questionnaire (R‐ITQ) and the Toddler Temperament Questionnaire (TTQ). Most of the temperament characteristics showed moderate stability during the first year. MSB was related to infant temperament characteristics at 3, 6 and 12 months of age. Gender differences in temperament were evident already at 6 and 12 months of age. Few prior studies have reported gender differences in infancy.
Is sense of coherence a mediator or moderator of relationships between violence at work and stress reactions?
Authors: HOGH ANNIE , MIKKELSEN EVA GEMZØE
Published: September 2005

The relationships between exposure to violence at work, sense of coherence, and stress reactions were analysed in a large sample of the Danish workforce. The results showed that employees subjected to violence have a weaker sense of coherence than the rest of the respondents. Sense of coherence acted as a mediator and not as a moderator of relationships between exposure to violence and psychological, psychosomatic and cognitive stress reactions. The stability of the sense of coherence construct is discussed. With respect to the relation between sense of coherence and violence, preventative measures at the individual and organizational level are suggested.
Post‐traumatic stress disorder in a Danish population of elderly bereaved
Authors: ELKLIT ASK , O'CONNOR MAJA
Published: September 2005

The objectives of this study were to examine psychological sequalae of loss of a spouse in late life especially the occurrence of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and possible predictors of PTSD and symptom development. Fifty‐four bereaved Danes (mean age 75 years) from five geographically different areas were studied by the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (HTQ), the Trauma Symptom Checklist (TSC), and the Crisis Support Scale (CSS). One month after the loss, 27% of the subjects had PTSD. Six months after the loss, this number decreased to 17%; if the A2 criterion was dismissed, the number increased to 24%. Lack of expressive ability, numbing, fear of death or illness, and helplessness in relation to the loss predicted 73% of the variance of the HTQ‐total scores. The study concluded that for a considerable number of elderly, losing a spouse in late life appeared to be a traumatic experience. Pre‐ and peritraumatic factors together with numbing were important predictors of traumatization. Research implications are discussed.
Ethnic variations in the initial phase of mental health treatment: A study of Sami and non‐Sami clients and therapists in northern Norway
Authors: MØLLERSEN SNEFRID , SEXTON HAROLD C. , HOLTE ARNE
Published: September 2005

Several studies indicate that mental health and mental health service vary with ethnicity. Ethnically linked social differences affect these results. We examined the multiethnic population in northern Norway where social inequalities between the Sami and the non‐Sami population are not prominent. Clients (N= 347) and therapists (N= 32) in outpatient treatments reported demographics, ethnicity and the therapeutic alliance. Clients also reported pretreatment psychosocial status, service utilization and the type of help requested. Therapist recorded clinical and diagnostic assessments and treatment plans. The Sami and non‐Sami client groups were similar in demographics and pretreatment psychosocial characteristics. However, the therapists prescribed more sessions and more socially focused interventions when clients were Sami. Verbal therapy was more often used by the non‐Sami therapists. Alliance ratings were positively correlated only between Sami therapists and their clients, and Sami therapists rated the largest initial clinical improvement. Clinics located in the high Sami density areas offered their clients more therapy sessions, than in clinics in the high non‐Sami density areas. Ethnic similarity between client and therapist were associated with more frequent use of medication and less frequent use of verbal therapy.
A smuggling approach to the passive in english
Authors: Collins Chris
Published: September 2005

Abstract.  I propose a theory of the passive that combines aspects of the principles and parameters analysis (no specific rules, no downward movement) and Chomsky's (1957) Syntactic Structures analysis (the arguments in the passive are generated in the same positions as they are in the active).
The syntax‐discourse divide: processing ellipsis
Authors: Frazier Lyn , Clifton Charles
Published: September 2005

Abstract.  VP‐ellipsis and sluicing are forms of ellipsis that can cross a sentence boundary. We present a series of comprehension studies on these forms of ellipsis to elucidate their processing and the relation of syntactic and discourse processing. One set of studies examines the hypothesis that the representation of elided material is syntactically structured. We present evidence supporting the hypothesis and tentatively attribute the effects to sharing of the structure of the antecedent constituent, with structure building or substitution of a variable for a constituent permitted if it is licensed by the syntactic principles of the language. Another set of studies tests the hypothesis that a new utterance is preferentially related to the main assertion of the preceding utterance, which is typically a constituent high in the syntactic tree. The results suggest that discourse processing differs from syntactic processing, where the most accessible material is recent material found low in the syntactic tree. A final set of studies examines the interplay of the syntactic processor, which may not violate ‘‘islands,’’ and the discourse processor, which may, in the processing of ellipsis sentences involving islands. A novel explanation is offered for the observation (Ross 1967) that sluicing out of relative‐clause islands is grammatical except when sprouting is required.
Camille Melchior Gibert (1797–1866)
Authors: Díaz Díaz RM , Jiménez M Casado
Published: September 2005

Camille Melchior Gibert was born in 1797 in Paris. He interned there under Doctor Biett at l’Hôpital Saint‐Louis and worked at the Broca and Saint‐Louis Hospitals. He is best remembered for his description of Pityriasis rosea, which has been associated with him. He died in the 1866 Paris cholera epidemic.
Telomerase down‐regulation does not mediate PC12 pheochromocytoma cell differentiation induced by NGF, but requires MAP kinase signalling
Authors: Li He , Pinto Alexander Ruvantha , Duan Wenzhou , Li Jinhua , Toh Ban‐Hock , Liu Jun‐Ping
Published: September 2005

Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein complex that maintains chromosomal telomere homeostasis and underlies continuous renewal of stem cells and immortalization of neoplastic cells. Telomerase is down‐regulated during cell differentiation, but the mechanisms of down‐regulation are largely unknown. Here, we examined roles of mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase and phosphatidylinositol‐3 (PI3) kinase signalling pathways in telomerase down‐regulation triggered by nerve growth factor (NGF), and the role of telomerase down‐regulation in NGF‐induced neural differentiation in PC12 cells. We report that NGF‐induced telomerase down‐regulation requires MAP kinase signalling. While mutations of all putative Akt phosphorylation sites in telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) has no effect on telomerase activity, inhibition of MAP kinase signalling by PD98059 or U0126 abolishes NGF‐induced telomerase down‐regulation in a concentration‐dependent manner. Reversal of NGF‐induced telomerase down‐regulation by TERT overexpression does not prevent NGF‐induced neural differentiation. Down‐regulation of telomerase by silencing TERT gene expression does not trigger cell differentiation in the absence of NGF, nor enhances NGF‐induced differentiation. Thus, telomerase, withdraws by a mechanism at TERT gene transcription level involving MAP kinase signalling while cells cease proliferation and undergo differentiation. The withdrawal of telomerase is not required to mediate NGF‐induced PC12 cell differentiation and re‐establishment of telomerase activity at significant levels does not inhibit differentiation.