bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Apoptosis in cerebellar granule neurons is associated with reduced interaction between CREB‐binding protein and NF‐κB
Authors: Yalcin Asligul , Koulich Elena , Mohamed Salah , Liu Li , D'Mello Santosh R.
Published: March 2003

Cerebellar granule neurons undergo apoptosis when switched from medium containing depolarizing levels of potassium (high K+ medium, HK) to medium containing low K+ (LK). NF‐κB, a ubiquitously expressed transcription factor, is involved in the survival‐promoting effects of HK. However, neither the expression nor the intracellular localization of the five NF‐κB proteins, or of IκB‐α and IκB‐β, are altered in neurons primed to undergo apoptosis by LK, suggesting that uncommon mechanisms regulate NF‐κB activity in granule neurons. In this study, we show that p65 interacts with the transcriptional co‐activator, CREB‐binding protein (CBP), in healthy neurons. The decrease in NF‐κB transcriptional activity caused by LK treatment is accompanied by a reduction in the interaction between p65 and CBP, an alteration that is accompanied by hyperphosporylation of CBP. LK‐induced CBP hyperphosphorylation can be mimicked by inhibitors of protein phosphatase (PP) 2A and PP2A‐like phosphatases such as okadaic acid and cantharidin, which also causes a reduction in p65–CBP association. In addition, treatment with these inhibitors induces cell death. Treatment with high concentrations of the broad‐spectrum kinase inhibitor staurosporine prevents LK‐mediated CBP hyperphosphorylation and inhibits cell death. In vitro kinase assays using glutathione‐S‐transferase (GST)‐CBP fusion proteins map the LK‐regulated site of phosphorylation to a region spanning residues 1662–1840 of CBP. Our results are consistent with possibility that LK‐induced apoptosis is triggered by CBP hyperphosphorylation, an alteration that causes the dissociation of CBP and NF‐κB.
New Otx2 mRNA isoforms expressed in the mouse brain
Authors: Courtois Virginie , Chatelain Gilles , Han Zhi‐Yan , Le Novère Nicolas , Brun Gilbert , Lamonerie Thomas
Published: March 2003

The mouse Otx2 gene is essential throughout head and brain development, from anterior–posterior polarity determination and neuroectoderm induction to post‐natal sensory organ maturation. These numerous activities must rely on a very finely tuned regulation of expression. In order to understand the molecular control of the Otx2 gene, we set out to isolate its promoter. During this quest, we identified three remote transcription start sites, two defining two new upstream exons and one mapping within the previously reported first exon. The three transcripts differed in their 5′ non‐coding region but encoded the same protein. The transcription start nucleotides of each mRNA species have been mapped by RNase protection assays and by an RNA circularization technique. We have demonstrated that they are all used and linked to functional promoters. In addition to leader versatility, we also detected alternative splicing within the coding sequence that gives rise to a new protein endowed with an 8 amino‐acid insertion upstream of the homeodomain. Combined analysis of the relative abundance of Otx2 mRNA isoforms in representative tissues and in situ hybridization studies revealed distinct spatial and temporal, although partially overlapping, expression patterns of the mRNA isoforms. These findings provide new clues to a better understanding of the relationships between Otx2 gene architecture and its complex regulatory requirements.
Functional metabotropic glutamate receptors are expressed in oligodendrocyte progenitor cells
Authors: Luyt Karen , Varadi Aniko , Molnar Elek
Published: March 2003

We investigated the expression of metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) isoforms in CG‐4 rodent oligodendroglial progenitor cells (OPC) and rat brain oligodendrocytes. Our RT‐PCR analysis detected mRNAs for mGluR3 and mGluR5 isoforms in OPCs. Although neurons express both mGluR5a and mGluR5b splice variants, only mGluR5a was identified in OPCs. Antibodies to mGluR2/3 and mGluR5 detected the corresponding receptor proteins in immunoblots of OPC membrane fractions. Furthermore, immunocytochemical analysis identified mGluR5 in oligodendrocyte marker O4‐positive OPCs. The expression of mGluR5 was also demonstrated in oligodendrocyte marker (O4 and O1) positive cells in white matter of postnatal 4‐ and 7‐day‐old rat brain sections using immunofluorescent double labelling and confocal microscopy. The mGluR5 receptor function was assessed in CG‐4 OPCs with fura‐2 microfluorometry. Application of the mGluR1/5 specific agonist (S)‐3,5‐dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG) induced calcium oscillations, which were inhibited by the selective mGluR5 antagonist 2‐methyl‐6‐(phenylethynyl) pyridine hydrochloride (MPEP). The DHPG induced calcium oscillations required Ca2+ release from intracellular stores. In OPCs the group II mGluR agonist (2S,2′R,3′R)‐2‐(2′,3′‐dicarboxycyclopropyl)glycine (DCG‐IV) decreased forskolin‐stimulated cAMP synthesis, indicating the presence of functional mGluR3. The newly identified mGluR3 and mGluR5a may be involved in the differentiation of oligodendrocytes, myelination and the development of white matter damage.
Microsatellite loci isolated from the Mediterranean species Cicada barbara (Stål) and C. orni L. (Hemiptera, Cicadoidea)
Authors: Seabra S. G. , Wilcock H. R. , Quartau J. A. , Bruford M. W.
Published: March 2003

We describe the isolation of six polymorphic microsatellites for Cicada barbara (Stål), four of which are also polymorphic for the closely related Cicada orni L. Cicadas from several sites in the Iberian Peninsula, North Africa (C. barbara) and Greece (C. orni) were genotyped at these loci. Polymorphism is higher than that previously obtained with allozymes for these species. One locus allows species diagnosis (nonoverlapping allele size ranges) between C. barbara and C. orni and the others have some exclusive alleles for each species.
Polymorphic microsatellite DNA markers for the Patagonian squid, Loligo gahi (Cephalopoda)
Authors: Shaw P. W. , Adcock G. J.
Published: March 2003

Squid populations are being put under rapidly increasing commercial fishing pressure worldwide. The same species are known to be susceptible to extreme population fluctuations, so detailed knowledge of population substructuring and genetic diversity is essential for rational management. We present a set of microsatellite DNA loci suitable for population genetic analysis of Loligo gahi, the squid species subject to the most detailed monitoring and fishery control (around the Falkland Islands), with the future aim of generating management‐related information to aid conservation of this valuable natural resource.
Identification of one X‐linked and five autosomal microsatellite loci in Carabus violaceus (Coleoptera, Carabidae) and their applicability to related taxa
Authors: Keller I. , Largiadèr C. R.
Published: March 2003

We characterize six microsatellite loci from the ground beetle Carabus violaceus. The polymorphism of the loci was assessed in 46 individuals from one population. The number of alleles ranges between three and eight, and the observed heterozygosities between 0.46 and 0.76. All males are homozygous for locus CVI08106CMPG, whereas most females are heterozygous. This suggests that this locus is situated on the X chromosome. Tests in eight different species of ground beetles showed that four loci could be amplified in C. coriaceus and one each in C. glabratus, C. nemoralis, C. problematicus and Abax parallelepipedus.
Isolation and characterization of five microsatellite loci in Dolichopoda cave crickets (Orthoptera Rhaphidophoridae)
Authors: Bernardini C. , Ketmaier V.
Published: March 2003

Five microsatellite loci are described for the cave cricket genus Dolichopoda. Preliminary data on allelic variation of these loci are presented for one population of D. schiavazzii and one population of D. laetitiae to test their usefulness in fine‐scale studies of the genetic aspect of cave colonization. Cross‐species amplifications were carried out in four other Dolichopoda species and in two species belonging to another cave cricket genus (Troglophilus) to test the potential use of these microsatellite markers in studies of both congeneric species and species belonging to the same family.
Isolation of polymorphic microsatellite markers in the new world honey ant Myrmecocystus mimicus
Authors: Kronauer Daniel J. C. , Gadau Jürgen
Published: March 2003

We present primer sequences for five polymorphic microsatellite loci in the honey ant Myrmecocystus mimicus. Microsatellite loci were isolated using a highly efficient enrichment procedure. The number of alleles ranged from three to eight with observed levels of heterozygosity ranging from 0.492 to 0.871. These markers were designed to study the population and colony kin structure of a honey ant species that has been shown to conduct intraspecific brood raids. We also report the applicability of these loci in a second honey ant species (Myrmecocystus depilis) and briefly assess the utility of our loci in more distantly related taxa.
DNA microsatellites of pronghorn (Antilocapra americana)
Authors: Carling M. D. , Passavant C. W. , Byers J. A.
Published: March 2003

We developed a set of eight polymorphic microsatellite loci for pronghorn, Antilocapra americana. We screened 233 individuals from the National Bison Range in Moiese, MT, and found allele numbers from three to 11 and heterozygosity levels ranging from 0.142 to 0.807. These results suggest that these loci will be useful in paternity analysis and basic population genetics applications.
A quantitative evaluation of two methods for preserving hair samples
Authors: Roon D. A. , Waits L. P. , Kendall K. C.
Published: March 2003

Hair samples are an increasingly important DNA source for wildlife studies, yet optimal storage methods and DNA degradation rates have not been rigorously evaluated. We tested amplification success rates over a one‐year storage period for DNA extracted from brown bear (Ursus arctos) hair samples preserved using silica desiccation and −20 °C freezing. For three nuclear DNA microsatellites, success rates decreased significantly after a six‐month time point, regardless of storage method. For a 1000 bp mitochondrial fragment, a similar decrease occurred after a two‐week time point. Minimizing delays between collection and DNA extraction will maximize success rates for hair‐based noninvasive genetic sampling projects.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in the black rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta)
Authors: Blouin‐Demers Gabriel , Gibbs H. Lisle
Published: March 2003

We obtained molecular markers useful for population level studies of the black rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta) by screening genomic DNA libraries enriched for dinucleotide, tetranucleotide, and pentanucleotide microsatellite repeats. Following sequencing of the positive clones, 11 pairs of primers were designed for polymorphic loci and their variability assessed in > 350 individuals from four populations in North America. The loci had between 9 and 40 alleles and observed heterozygosities ranged from 0.071 to 0.87. Some of these pairs of primers also successfully amplified DNA from two other snake species.
Isolation of microsatellite markers from the rosy apple aphid Dysaphis plantaginea
Authors: Harvey N. G. , Fitzgerald J. D. , James C. M. , Solomon M. G.
Published: March 2003

We report the development of five polymorphic microsatellite loci from the aphid Dysaphis plantaginea, a serious pest on apple. Using a multimotif enrichment protocol, we have isolated loci that are proving to be valuable tools for studying aphid movement at both between‐county and within‐orchard scales.
Phlebectomy – cosmetic indications
Authors: Ramelet A‐A
Published: March 2003

Summary Ambulatory phlebectomy is a safe, aesthetic, effective and economical operative technique, which enables venous extraction with a special hook, assuring complete and definitive eradication of the veins. Minimal skin incisions (1–3 mm), or even needle punctures, usually result in little or no scarring.

This aesthetic method is particularly indicated to treat unsightly varicose veins, such as reticular veins (popliteal fold, lateral thigh and leg), groin pudendal veins, veins of the ankles and the dorsal venous network of the foot. Curettage of telangiectasias is a less well‐known technique, but it is also effective in removing networks of thick blue spider veins. Ambulatory phlebectomy of body areas other than the lower limbs include dilated periorbital, temporal or frontal venous networks and venous dilatation of the abdomen, upper limbs or dorsa of the hands.
A3. The role of botulinum toxin and alphahydroxy acids as agents to prolong the effects of skin rejuvenation procedures
Authors: Benedetto Anthony V
Published: March 2003

The desire of ‘baby‐boomers’ to remain forever young can prove to be a tenuous goal that often eludes most of us. However, with the current popularity and availability of minimally invasive techniques of facial rejuvenation, many people with facial wrinkles and photodamage may be closer to the ideal of at least appearing youthful.

Injections of Botulinum toxin (BTX) will remove many of the dynamic wrinkles of the face that denote a negative emotion and give the appearance of being old and tired or even angry and disgusted. These types of wrinkles are produced by hyperactive mimetic muscles of the face, which can be weakened by injections of BTX.

The addition of superficial chemical peelings with the alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) can be used to rejuvenate the superficial surface of the face by diminishing the appearance of the fine, static wrinkles of the face, many of which are caused by photodamage and chronological ageing. Daily application of the AHAs in cream form can be used to maintain a supple, healthy glow on the surface of the skin, keeping the telltale wrinkles of the ageing process at bay.
A4. Hair loss – surgical and pharmacological treatment
Authors: Ginzburg Alex
Published: March 2003

Most adult men, and some women, will eventually have a certain degree of hair loss which is not a pathological condition, but which can create social and psychological problems. Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of hair loss in both sexes and appears to be caused by a combination of genetic predisposition and androgen hormone. However, there are many other causes for hair loss such as poor nutrition, alopecia areata, infection, systemic disease, metabolic or genetic disorders, and baldness due to side‐effects from drugs.

Treatment options include:

a) Hormone modifiers:

Androgen inhibitors (finasteride, dutasteride, spironolactone)

Oestrogen mediated

b) Surgical options:

Scalp surgery, excision of bald scalp, with or without tissue expansion, scalp flaps and hair transplantation have been the treatment for androgenetic alopecia for many years and are constantly being revised and improved.
A6. Surgical, pharmacological and dermocosmoceutical strategies to restore a functionally and aesthetically altered nail
Authors: Haneke Eckart
Published: March 2003

There are many procedures that claim to improve the quality and beauty of the nail, however, most of them have absolutely no scientific basis.

The nail is a cellularly‐derived, plate‐like structure composed of keratin fibres embedded in a sulphur‐rich material. Both the fibrous and amorphic structures are genetically regulated. Excess amounts of sulphur‐rich proteins have therefore only a positive effect in the extremely rare case of true deficiency of sulphur‐containing essential amino‐acids. Another popular claim, particularly among women, is of a lack of so‐called essential nutrients, such vitamins, hormones, essential rare elements, iron, calcium, and so on. With the exception of very rare cases of metabolic diseases, such as alimentary or genetic zinc deficiency, such cases rarely occur in Europe; the excellent quality of nails among the poorest people of the third world suggests that dietary factors are not the cause of nail abnormalities. There is, therefore, no need to supplement ‘nail factors’ and attempts at improving the nail quality by a special dietary regimen are ineffective although they may be psychologically beneficial. Whether or not the ‘hair and nail vitamin’ biotin is active is still not proven.

Brittle nails are a relatively common complaint, mainly among women. Repeated hyperhydration and desiccation are thought to decrease the nail's resistance. Formaldehyde‐containing preparations are able to harden the nail. Over‐treatment may, however, render the nail so inelastic that it breaks more easily. Other cosmetic measures such as nail wrapping, application of acrylic resin‐impregnated silk or other tissue both supports the free margin of the nail and is a good measure to repair breaks and splits of the free nail margin. Surface irregularities may be camouflaged with a nail varnish or a thin sculptured nail. Stick‐on plastic nails are usually not recommended because their occluding effect may impair the nail quality.

Neither can the quality of the nail substance nor the nail shine be improved by surgical methods. To the contrary, nail avulsion is a serious trauma to the nail organ and often worsens abnormalities of the nail shape and form. Surgical measures are effective to improve the width‐to‐length ratio in brachyonychia and racket nail, to flatten the transverse overcurvature in pincer nails, to repair split nails, etc. Many surgical operations could be carried out with more attention paid to the cosmetic outcome.

In general, there are few ways to improve the beauty and quality of nails and most claims remain unsubstantiated.
A new genus of crane (Aves: Gruiformes) from the Late Tertiary of the Balearic Islands, Western Mediterranean
Authors: Seguí Bartomeu
Published: March 2003

A new genus and species of crane is described from Late Tertiary karstic deposits in Punta Nati‐Cala's Pous, in the north‐west of Menorca. The coracoid, the ends of the distal and proximal tibiotarsus, the proximal and distal ends of the tarsometatarsus (the latter is not well preserved) and the femur have been recovered, in what is one of the best osteological series of a crane pre‐dating the Pleistocene. The morphology of the fossil is mainly coincident with the Gruinae, especially with recent Grus. However, its size and some symplesiomorphic features of the distal end of the tibiotarsus and of the coracoid are coincident with Balearica, and automorphic characters are also found mainly in the proximal end of the tibiotarsus. The combination of characters justifies the creation of a new genus that is considered basal in the Gruinae.
Distribution and nesting density of the Philippine Eagle Pithecophaga jefferyi on Mindanao Island, Philippines: what do we know after 100 years?
Authors: Bueser Glen Lovell L. , Bueser Kharina G. , Afan Donald S. , Salvador Dennis I. , Grier James W. , Kennedy Robert S. , Miranda Hector C.
Published: March 2003

The Philippine Eagle Pithecophaga jefferyi, first discovered in 1896, is one of the world's most endangered eagles. It has been reported primarily from only four main islands of the Philippine archipelago. We have studied it extensively for the past three decades. Using data from 1991 to 1998 as best representing the current status of the species on the island of Mindanao, we estimated the mean nearest‐neighbour distances between breeding pairs, with remarkably little variation, to be 12.74 km (n = 13 nests plus six pairs without located nests, se = ±0.86 km, range = 8.3–17.5 km). Forest cover within circular plots based on nearest‐neighbour pairs, in conjunction with estimates of remaining suitable forest habitat (approximately 14 000 km2), yield estimates of the maximum number of breeding pairs on Mindanao ranging from 82 to 233, depending on how the forest cover is factored into the estimates.
Improving the description of the retinal vasculature and patient history taking for monitoring systemic hypertension
Authors: Wolffsohn James S. , Napper Genevieve A. , Ho Suit‐May , Jaworski Andrew , Pollard Tamara L.
Published: March 2003

Systemic hypertension is an important public health concern. If optometrists are to perform a more active role in the detection and monitoring of high blood pressure (BP), there is a need to improve the consistency of describing the retinal vasculature and to assess patient's ability to correctly report the diagnosis of hypertension, its control and medication. One hundred and one patients aged>40 years were dilated and had fundus photography performed. BP was measured and a self‐reported history of general health and current medication was compared with the records of their general practitioner (GP). The status of the retinal vasculature was quantified using a numeric scale by five clinicians and this was compared to the same evaluation performed with the aid of a basic pictorial grading scale. Image analysis was used to objectively measure the artery‐to‐vein (A/V) ratio and arterial reflex. Arteriolar tortuosity and calibre changes were found to be the most sensitive retinal signs of high BP. Using the grading scale to describe the retinal vasculature significantly improved inter‐ and intra‐observer repeatability. Almost half the patients examined were on medication for high BP or cardiovascular disease. Patients’ ability to give their complete medical history was poor, as was their ability to recall what medication they had been prescribed. GPs indicated it was useful to receive details of their patient's BP when it was>140 /90  mmHg. The use of improved description of the retinal vasculature and stronger links between optometrists and GPs may enhance future patient care.
Temporal detection in human vision: dependence on eccentricity
Authors: Hess R. F. , Fredericksen R. E.
Published: March 2003

Studies of human perception of time‐varying luminance often aim to estimate either temporal impulse response shapes or temporal modulation transfer functions (MTFs) of putative temporal processing mechanisms. Previously, temporal masking data have been used to estimate the properties and numbers of these temporal mechanisms in central vision for 1 cycle per degree (cpd) targets [Fredericksen and Hess (1998)]. The same methods have been used to explore how these properties change with stimulus energy [Fredericksen and Hess (1997)] and spatial frequency [Fredericksen and Hess (1999)]. We present here analyses of the properties of temporal mechanisms that detect temporal variations of luminance in peripheral vision. The results indicate that a two‐filter model provides the best model for our masking data, but that no multiple filter model provides an acceptable fit across the range of parameters varied in this study. Single‐filter modelling shows differences between processing mechanisms at 1 cpd in central vision and those that operate eccentrically. We find evidence that this change is because of differences in relative sensitivities of the mechanisms, and to differences in fundamental mechanism impulse responses.
Are there age differences in the accommodative response curve between 3 and 14 years of age?
Authors: Chen Ai Hong , O'Leary Daniel J.
Published: March 2003

The monocular ocular accommodative responses of 118 emmetropic children, aged from 3 to 14 years, were measured at five different stimulus distances (0, 1, 2, 3, 4 D) from the principal plane of the eye with a Canon Autoref R‐1. The change in the accommodative response curve in emmetropic children between 3 and 14 years old was found to be negligible.
The multifocal electroretinogram in central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Huang Shizhou , Wu Dezheng , Jiang Futian , Wu Lezheng , Liang Jiongji , Luo Guangwei , Wen Feng , Ma Juanmei
Published: March 2003

Purpose: To compare multifocal electroretinograms (ERGs) in control subjects and patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

Method: Eighteen eyes of control subjects and 15 eyes affected by CSC were tested with a VERIS Sciences 4.0 system. The average response densities and latencies of six annular retinal regions in control subjects were compared with those with CSC.

Results: The N1, P1 average response densities of the first and second annuli were decreased and the N1, P1 latencies of first to third rings were delayed in CSC.

Conclusion: The multifocal ERG can be used to evaluate retinal dysfunction in CSC.
The effect of light scattering on multifocal electroretinography
Authors: Chan H. L. , Siu A. W. , Yap M. K. , Brown B.
Published: March 2003

Purpose: Unclear ocular media is a very common condition of older eyes characterized by significant light scattering and image degradation. The multifocal electroretinography (MERG) is a useful objective technique to measure retinal activity but its validity in the presence of cloudy ocular media remains unclear. We tested the MERG under controlled light scattering conditions using a liquid crystal diffuser (LCD) that simulated different degrees of image degradation.

Methods: The MERG were taken from 13 normal young subjects seated behind a LCD set under two conditions: scatter (visual acuity ∼6/18) and non‐scatter (visual acuity ∼6/6). The pupils had been dilated and the eyes were optically corrected for the working distance. The first‐order kernel MERG response was analysed. Three subjects underwent MERG measurement with two additional intermediate light scattering levels (i.e. visual acuity ∼6/9 and 6/12).

Results: The macular MERG response density was reduced (p < 0.001), but the peripheral MERG response densities were increased (p < 0.001) under the scattering condition. A similar trend was also observed with intermediate degrees of light scattering. Comparing the MERG waveforms without light scattering, a new retinal response was identified with a characteristic latency of about 60 ms (P60), but it was diminished in size under the scattering conditions.

Conclusions: The veiling luminance might have caused the reduction in the macular MERG response and an elevation in the peripheral retina with light scatter. The functional suppression of P60 observed under the influence of light scatter may be related to retinal adaptation. Unclear optical media will affect the interpretation of MERG results.
Intra‐observer and inter‐observer repeatability of Anterior Eye Segment analysis system (EAS‐1000) in anterior chamber configuration
Authors: Lam Andrew K. C. , Chan Rufina , Woo George C. , Pang Peter C. K. , Chiu Roger
Published: March 2003

Background:  Anterior chamber configuration can be assessed via optical or ultrasonic techniques. Scheimpflug photography is a non‐invasive method measuring the anterior segment. The Anterior Eye Segment analysis system, EAS‐1000, utilises the Scheimpflug principle and was found to have good repeatability. Previous repeatability studies, however, have had limitations in their design. The current study investigated the intra‐observer and interobserver repeatability of the EAS‐1000.

Methods:  Twenty‐five healthy young subjects were recruited. The anterior chamber angles in different quadrants were measured by two examiners for interobserver analysis. The first examiner repeated the measurement at another session for intra‐observer analysis. The 95% limits of agreement and intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC) were calculated. The anterior chamber depth was also measured and compared with ultrasound biometry.

Results:  The anterior chamber angle assessment demonstrated good intra‐observer (ICC ranging from 0.77 to 0.90 for different quadrants) and interobserver (ICC ranging from 0.68 to 0.81 for different quadrants) repeatability. The 95% intra‐observer limits of agreement were within ±5°. The 95% interobserver limits of agreement were within ±6°. There was no significant difference between male and female subjects or among angles at different quadrants. The anterior chamber depth was found to be repeatable (ICC > 0.90) with 95% limits of agreement ±0.1 mm. The anterior chamber depth was shallower than that obtained from ultrasound biometry.

Conclusions:  The EAS‐100 is a non‐invasive instrument which is repeatable for measuring the anterior chamber angle and depth. It provides quick results and is good for screening purposes. There is an under‐estimation of anterior chamber depth, as previously reported.
Pulsatile ocular blood flow measurements in healthy Asian eyes: reference values for an Indian population
Authors: Gunvant P. , Joseph I. S. , Baskaran M. , Vijaya L. , Broadway D. C. , Watkins R. J.
Published: March 2003

Purpose:  To investigate pulsatile ocular blood flow (POBF) in a healthy Indian population and use the data derived as reference values.

Methods:  Two hundred and fifty‐two healthy subjects (121 males, 131 females) underwent intraocular pressure and POBF measurement with the Ocular Blood Flow Analyzer (Paradigm Medical Industries, Salt Lake City, UT, USA and formerly the POBF Tonograph). Before POBF measurement, subjects underwent a complete ophthalmic examination including refraction, slitlamp examination and biomicroscopic fundoscopy and Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT). Subjects with ocular pathology were excluded from the study. Median age was 29 years (male median 32 years, female median 27 years).

Results:  Average POBF in males was found to be 1052 µL min−1 (95% CI: 988–1116 µL min−1) and in females to be 1293 µL min−1 (95% CI: 1222–1364 µL min−1). Median age was significantly different between males and females (Mann–Whitney U = 6685; p = 0.0311) but POBF was found to be independent of age in both sexes. As a group, mean refractive error influenced POBF (Kendall's τ = 0.24; p = 0.0017).

Conclusions:  Pulsatile ocular blood flow values in Indians appear to be higher than reported in studies conducted on other racial groups. The reasons for this difference could be instrumental or anatomical (i.e axial length, ocular rigidity). Care should be taken in deriving normative data using the Ocular Blood Flow Analyzer in mixed race groups.
Perceived blur in amblyopia
Authors: Simmers A. J. , Bex P. J. , Hess R F.
Published: March 2003

Purpose:  It is well documented that visual acuity and contrast sensitivity in amblyopia are attenuated at high spatial frequencies: this would predict that amblyopes should perceive objects as blurred because they lack high spatial frequency information necessary to adequately represent sharp edges. In a series of experiments, we explored the representation of blur in amblyopia with blur discrimination and blur matching tasks.

Methods:  Monocular blur discrimination thresholds were measured in a spatial 2‐Alternative Force Choice procedure. The luminance profiles of the blurred edge were cumulative Gaussians with the standard deviation of the reference blurred edge being fixed at 1.88, 3.75, 7.5, 15, 30, or 60 min arc. Observers were required to discriminate which edge (right or left) appeared to be the less blurred. Observers also interocularly matched edges which were identical to those employed in the blur discrimination tasks, with the exception that they were viewed dichoptically at all times.

Results:  Blur discriminination thresholds were elevated in both the amblyopic and fellow fixing eye but were within the normal range for interocular matching thresholds. Our results suggest that blur is veridically represented in the amblyopic visual system.

Conclusions:  The surprising result here is that all amblyopes, even those with the most severe visual loss, veridically matched all blurred edges, including the sharpest ones. This implies that amblyopes are able to represent levels of blur that are defined by spatial structure beyond their resolution limit. These results also raise interesting questions about the mechanism by which blur is represented in the visual system.
Does accommodation inaccuracy matter in children with Down syndrome?
Authors: Stewart R. E. , Woodhouse J. M. , Cregg M. , Pakeman V. , Gunter H. , Trojanowska L. D. , Parker M. , Fraser W. I.
Published: March 2003

Purpose:  Almost 57% of children with Down syndrome have significant refractive error (hypermetropia ≥+3.00 D, myopia ≥−1.00 D) (Woodhouse et al., 1997); they are 17 times more likely to have significant long or short sight than their typically developing peers. Also, for the age range 4.5 months to 11.1 years, 34% of children with Down syndrome have strabismus, compared with 4–7.5% of control children (British College of Optometrists, 1991–94). In addition, 82% of our cohort of children with Down syndrome (n = 100) have reduced accommodation at near. In order to investigate the influence of accommodation accuracy on refractive error and strabismus, this study compared the above parameters in children with Down syndrome who accommodated accurately with those who did not.

Methods:  Accommodation was measured using dynamic retinoscopy technique at testing distances of 25, 16.6 and 10 cm. An accommodative lag of plano to 0.75 D is normal for typically developing children (Rouse et al., 1984). Accurate accommodation for our cohort was therefore defined as ≤0.75 D lag of accommodation (at a minimum of two of three testing distances). Children with Down syndrome who accommodated accurately were age matched with a child with inaccurate accommodation, based on their most recent visit for which a full data set was available.

Results:  Chi‐square analysis of the data for the two groups revealed that there was a greater number of children with significant hypermetropia (p = 0.003) and strabismus (p = 0.003, Fisher's exact test) in the under‐accommodating group.

Conclusion:  Children with Down syndrome who under‐accommodate are more likely to be strabismic and have significant hypermetropia.
The effect of ageing on the range of ocular movements
Authors: Davidson J. H. , Knox P. C.
Published: March 2003

Purpose:  Although it is generally believed that defective conjugate upward gaze is common in the elderly, there is little evidence in the literature to support this. We investigated the range of ocular movements in both an elderly and a young group of subjects, under both binocular and monocular conditions.

Methods:  Ten old (mean age 71.38 ± 5.2 years) and six young subjects (20.17 ± 1.7 years) with good and equal visual acuity, normal binocular single vision and normal ocular movements participated. Heterophoria in nine positions of gaze was measured on the synoptophore. The range of eye movement was assessed binocularly and monocularly using Snellen fusion slides and the extent of elevation, depression, right gaze and left gaze recorded.

Results:  Under binocular and monocular conditions, the range of movement decreased for all positions in the older group. The difference was only statistically significant in elevation (p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant asymmetry between the eyes for any position for either group. Under monocular conditions there was a statistically significant symmetrical reduction in the extent of abduction in the older group in both right (p < 0.01) and left eyes (p < 0.05) compared with the younger group. In contrast, there was no statistically significant difference for either eye on adduction.

Conclusion:  These results confirm a decrease in elevation in healthy older individuals with slight restrictions in all other positions. There was a statistically significant and previously unreported decrease of abduction under monocular conditions in the elderly group. Thus asymmetry between the eyes remains the best tool when diagnosing a pathological weakness in eye movement, but more research is needed to confirm the extent of these age‐related restrictions.
Oblique saccades in visually normal human observers
Authors: Kavasakali M. , Bloj M. , Winn B.
Published: March 2003

Introduction:  Recent evidence suggests that oblique eye movements are differentially affected by some systemic diseases (for example Graves' disease). Previous studies of eye movements have tended to concentrate on horizontal or vertical eye movements. The aim of this study is to establish baseline data (latency, duration and peak velocity) for oblique eye movement in normal human observers.

Methods:  Eye movements were measured using an IRIS 6500 infrared limbal eye tracker (Skalar Medical, Delft, The Netherlands) customized for the direct recording of oblique eye movements. Data were collected at a sampling rate of 205 Hz and a resolution of 0.05° using a Gould 1604 digital storage oscilloscope. Data were subsequently transferred via an IEEE488 interface bus to a PC for analysis. Ten visually normal observers recruited from the student and patient population of the University of Bradford's Eye Clinic participated in the study. Subjects made saccadic eye movements in 5° to 15° steps in horizontal, vertical and oblique orientations. Stimuli were presented in random order to ensure there was no predictable component to the response.

Results:  Saccadic responses to vertical and horizontal step stimuli were consistent with previous published work. The modification to the eye tracker allowed direct measurement of oblique saccades. The duration of the saccade increased as a function of stimulus amplitude and conformed to the relationship: D = D0 + dA (where D is the duration of saccadic eye movement; A is the amplitude of saccadic eye movement; d is the rate of duration increase per degree of amplitude and D0 is the y‐axis intercept of the duration vs amplitude line). Calculation of latency (∼200 ms), duration (∼80–100 ms) and peak velocity (∼300 ms−1) for oblique saccades gave responses which were similar to those reported using indirect measurement.

Conclusion:  A veridical measure of oblique saccadic eye movements was obtained using the modified eye tracker. Oblique responses were generally slower than for horizontal measures of saccadic eye movements. These baseline data will allow a comparison in age‐matched subjects with early onset ocular motor anomalies.
On‐eye spherical aberration of soft contact lenses and effective lens power
Authors: Dietze H. H. , Cox M. C.
Published: March 2003

Purpose:  Soft contact lenses (SCL) produce a significant level of spherical aberration (SA). A simple model assuming that a thin SCL aligns to the cornea predicts that these effects are similar on‐eye and off‐eye. We investigate the effect SA has on the power of an SCL on‐eye.

Methods:  The wavefront aberration for 17 eyes and 33 SCL on‐eye was measured with a Shack–Hartmann wavefront sensor. The Zernike coefficients describing the on‐eye SA of the SCL were compared with off‐eye ray tracing results. Paraxial and effective lens power changes resulting from the SCL‐induced SA were determined.

Results:  The model predicts the on‐eye SA of SCL closely. The SA induced by spherical SCL partly cancelled the ocular SA for 11 of the subjects. The power change resulting from SCL‐induced SA is ±0.5 D for a ±7.00 D spherical SCL on a 6‐mm pupil. Power change is negligible for SCL corrected for off‐eye SA.

Conclusions:  For thin SCL the level of SA is similar on‐eye and off‐eye. SCL corrected for off‐eye SA are aberration free on‐eye but the benefit depends on the individual level of ocular aberrations and the viewing condition. The effective power change of spherical SCL depends on pupil size and can be significant for large pupils even for moderate refractive errors. For SCL without aberration correction, for higher levels of ametropia and large pupils, the SCL power should be determined with trial SCL with their power and p‐value similar to the prescribed lens.
A comparison of cup‐to‐disc ratio evaluation in normal subjects using stereo biomicroscopy and digital imaging of the optic nerve head
Authors: Hrynchak Patricia , Hutchings Natalie , Jones Deborah , Simpson Trefford
Published: March 2003

The cup‐to‐disc (CD) ratio evaluated using stereoscopic biomicroscopy was compared with that evaluated by viewing a non‐stereo digital image of the optic nerve head. Twenty normal subjects (mean age 26 ± 4 years) were evaluated by two observers. The average CD ratio was 0.29 with a range of 0–0.80. The intra‐class correlations between the observers ranged from 0.82 to 0.96, when comparing horizontal and vertical CD ratios for both evaluation techniques. The mean CD ratio was significantly smaller when viewing the digital image (0.25 ± 0.01) compared with stereoscopic observation (0.33 ± 0.03, p < 0.0001). Although the mean differences between the two techniques were small, the percentage of CD ratios that differed by ≥0.2 were between 5 and 25% of evaluations. Caution should be exercised when using stereoscopic and non‐stereo digital evaluations of CD ratio interchangeably to assess longitudinal progression in a multi‐clinician setting.
Relationship between goblet cell density and tear function tests
Authors: Yeo Anna Chwee Hong , Carkeet Andrew , Carney Leo G. , Yap Maurice Keng Hung
Published: March 2003

Aim: The objective of this study was to find a relationship between goblet cell density (GCD) and other diagnostic tests of dry eye in a group of normal healthy Chinese subjects. The capability of using GCD as a tear function test was assessed.

Method: A total of 42 optometry students with no contact lens wear history were recruited. Subjects were required to fill in a dry eye questionnaire. The non‐invasive tear break‐up time (NITBUT) of each subject was measured, followed by phenol red thread test (PRTT) and tear break‐up time (TBUT) tests. Conjunctival epithelial cells from the inferior nasal bulbar conjunctiva were harvested by the impression cytology technique. The specimens collected were labelled and stained with PAS (Periodic Acid Schiff)‐haematoxylin. The goblet cells and the conjunctival epithelial cells were counted under a light microscope of 100× magnification. Spearman's rho (ρ) correlation test was used to analyse the relationship between GCD and the other tear function tests.

Results: With a probability level of 0.0051 (corrected for a cumulative familywise error rate of p = 0.05), GCD was found to have no correlation with NITBUT (ρ = −0.193, p = 0.222), McMonnies Dry Eye Scores (MCDES) (ρ = −0.052, p = 0.742), PRTT (ρ = − 0.188, p = 0.234) and TBUT (ρ = 0.246, p = 0.117).

Conclusion: There was no correlation between GCD and MCDES, NITBUT, PRTT and TBUT. The GCD alone is not a useful diagnostic test for tear film instability in normal eyes although it is a good indicator in the diagnosis of ocular surface diseases.
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis): Is There Enough Scientific Evidence to Support Safety and Efficacy?
Authors: Mahady Gail B. , Chadwick Lucas R.
Published: March 2003

Over the past 10 years, botanical dietary supplements containing goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) have become some of the best‐selling products on the American market. Traditionally used by Native Americans to treat digestive complaints, goldenseal is now recommended for the treatment of common cold, influenza, menstrual disorders, and traveler's diarrhea, as well as muscular pain. In spite of these claims, there is little scientific evidence to suggest that goldenseal is effective for the prevention or treatment of any ailment. While some published data suggest that berberine, one of the active chemical constituents of goldenseal, is of some benefit for the treatment of bacterially induced diarrhea, it is not as effective as some standard antibiotics. Furthermore, considering the low concentration of berberine in goldenseal extracts and the lack of quality control over botanical dietary supplements in general, the concentration of berberine in goldenseal extracts is too low to be therapeutically effective. The safety of extended use of goldenseal extracts is also questionable, as another chemical constituent of the plant, hydrastine, may cause hypertension, exaggerated reflexes, and respiratory failure if given in sufficient doses. Furthermore, extracts of goldenseal inhibit the activity of cytochrome P450 (CYP 3A4) in vitro, and, therefore, may increase the toxicity of concomitantly administered prescription drugs t metabolized by this enzyme. Thus, due to a lack of substantiating scientific and clinical data for either safety or efficacy, the use of goldenseal is not recommended for any therapeutic indication.
Gelatinase activity in keloids and hypertrophic scars
Authors: Neely Alice N , Clendening Chris E , Gardner Jason , Greenhalgh David G , Warden Glenn D
Published: March 2003

Keloids and hypertrophic scars are characterized by excessive deposition of collagen, which may result from insufficient protein degradation. Little is known about the levels of two gelatinases, matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (72 kD type IV collagenase) and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (matrix metalloproteinase‐9; 92 kD type IV collagenase) in these abnormal scars. The purpose of this study was to determine levels of these proteinases in tissue from hypertrophic scars, keloids, and donor skin. Ten hypertrophic scar samples, 9 keloid samples, and 10 donor skin samples were frozen, pulverized, homogenized, clarified by centrifugation, and analyzed for matrix metalloproteinases by quantitative zymography. Identity of matrix metalloproteinases was determined using a conditioned media reference standard, molecular weight ladders, and Western blotting. Levels of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 activity were very low or undetectable in all samples. However, matrix metalloproteinase‐2 activity was significantly elevated in keloids and hypertrophic scars vs. donor samples: 2.6 and 3.9‐fold increases for latent matrix metalloproteinase‐2, 7.8 and 6.9‐fold increases for active matrix metalloproteinase‐2, respectively. We conclude that little matrix metalloproteinase‐9 activity (the gelatinase involved in early tissue repair) is present in keloids and hypertrophic scars, while matrix metalloproteinase‐2 activity (the gelatinase involved in prolonged tissue remodeling) is present in donor skin and is significantly increased in hypertrophic scars and keloids.
The Clinical and Economic Impact of Pharmaceutical Care in End‐Stage Renal Disease Patients
Authors: Manley Harold J. , Carroll Cathryn A.
Published: March 2003

End‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients are medically complex, require multiple medications for treatments of their various comorbidities, and cost the healthcare system billions of dollars each year. These patients are at risk of drug‐related problems (DRPs) that may lead to increased morbidity, mortality, and cost to the healthcare system. Review of the literature demonstrates that pharmaceutical care provided by pharmacists improves ESRD patient care. Pharmacist review of ESRD patients' medication profiles and medical records has shown to be beneficial in identifying and resolving DRPs. Economic analysis suggests that for every $1 spent on pharmaceutical care, the healthcare system saves an estimated $3.98. Provision of pharmaceutical care by pharmacists should be consdiered for all ESRD patients.
Structure‐Based Androgen Receptor Gene Mutation Database: A Tool to Link Molecular Location and Receptor Function
Authors: Brive Lars , Agus David B. , Ely Kathryn R.
Published: March 2003

Background: Mutant androgen receptors (ARs) that arise in prostate cancer cells may contribute directly to the development of advanced disease in some patients. Therefore, a structural understanding of the altered receptors will provide new information about the molecular triggers that lead to androgen‐independent disease or metastatic spread.

Methods: Recognizing that molecular localization is required to understand the effect of AR mutations on receptor function, a structural model of the ligand‐binding domain of AR was used to locate a comprehensive set of mutations in this domain that occur in prostate cancer. Substitutions were grouped into those that are likely to affect (1) ligand binding, (2) dimerization, or (3) coactivator binding/transactivation.

Results: The results were tabulated and were used to develop a novel structure‐based database linking molecular location with clinical observations for each mutant receptor expressed in the prostate cancer cells. Categories in the database can be cross‐referenced to retrieve, for each mutation, molecular details of the substitution, clinical stage of the disease, treatment history, and functional phenotype of the mutant receptor.

Conclusions: This database will be a resource for the development of therapeutics targeted to the AR and for understanding the role of ARs in androgen independence.