bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Antibiotic‐Sensitive and Insensitive Isolates of Orientia tsutsugamushi
Authors: Chao Chien‐Chung , Garland Donita L. , Dasch Gregory A. , Ching Wei‐Mei
Published: May 2009

Scrub typhus, caused by infection with Orientia tsutsugamushi, is probably the most common severe rickettsial disease. Early diagnosis followed by treatment with antibiotics such as doxycycline or chloramphenicol usually quickly decreases fever in patients, and they often recover well from other symptoms of the disease. However, poorly responsive cases have been reported from northern Thailand and southern India. In order to identify protein factors that may be partially responsible for differential drug sensitivity of isolates of Orientia, we compared the protein profiles of doxycycline sensitive (Karp) versus (vs.) insensitive (AFSC4 and AFSC7) isolates. Tryptic peptides from both total water‐soluble proteins and from protein spots separated by 2D‐PAGE were analyzed using LC‐MS/MS. The identity of each protein was established using the published genomic sequence of Boryong strain O. tsutsugamushi. The profiles of protein released into water from these isolates were quite different. There were 10 proteins detected only in AFSC4, 3 only in Karp, and 1 only in AFSC7. Additionally, there were 2 proteins not detected only in AFSC4, 4 not found only in Karp, and 3 not found only in AFSC‐7. A comparison of 2D‐PAGE protein profiles of drug sensitive strain versus (vs.) insensitive isolates has led to the identification of 14 differentially expressed or localized proteins, including elongation factor Ts and Tu, DNA‐directed RNA polymerase α‐subunit, ATP synthase β‐subunit, and several hypothetical proteins. These data confirm the tremendous proteomic diversity of isolates of Orientia and suggest that drug insensitivity in this species may arise from multiple mechanisms.
Closing the Gaps between Genotype and Phenotype in Rickettsia rickettsii
Authors: Eremeeva Marina E. , Dasch Gregory A.
Published: May 2009

Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) caused by Rickettsia rickettsii is a severe rickettsiosis that occurs in nearly every state of the continental USA. RMSF is endemic in Central and Southern America, with recent well‐documented cases in Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Brazil, and Argentina. RMSF is the most malignant among known rickettsioses causing severe multiorgan dysfunction and high case fatality rates, which can reach 73% in untreated cases. Variations in pathogenic biotypes of R. rickettsii isolates have been described, and potential correlations of these differences to various clinical manifestations of RMSF have been suggested. We have recently reported on a method of genetic comparison employing sequence differences in intergenic regions (IGR typing) in isolates of R. rickettsii of human, tick, and animal origin. The grouping obtained correlated well with 2 other genotyping systems we have developed, which target the presence and distribution of variable numbers of tandem repeats (TR) and insertion/deletion (INDEL) events. Twenty‐five total genotypes of R. rickettsii in 4 primary groups could be distinguished: isolates from Montana, isolates associated with Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks and human infections in Arizona, other isolates from the USA where Dermacentor variabilis is thought to be the primary vector, and the isolates primarily associated with Amblyomma ticks from Central and South America. In addition, isolate Hlp#2, which is often considered to be a nonpathogenic isolate of R. rickettsii and closely related serotype 364D, exhibited the most diversity from the other isolates compared, and they differ significantly from each other. Because complex interactions underlie the pathogenesis of R. rickettsii in vivo, it is difficult to define the causality of individual events that occur in infected vertebrate hosts and humans. Many microbial factors are likely to contribute to the varied ability of R. rickettsii to cause cellular injury; some of them may also contribute importantly to its virulence for vertebrate hosts and may be linked to the variable genetic markers we have identified. Since circulation of R. rickettsii in nature includes vertical transstadial and transovarial transmission within tick vectors and horizontal passages through vertebrate hosts, it is plausible that isolates of different virulence arose when they became isolated during adaptation to novel vertebrate and tick hosts. Characterization of the physiologically important changes in rickettsial gene expression that occur immediately after tick‐to‐human or tick‐to‐animal transitions may require development of new experimental systems.
Type IV Secretion System of Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Ehrlichia chaffeensis
Authors: Rikihisa Yasuko , Lin Mingqun , Niu Hua , Cheng Zhihui
Published: May 2009

The intracellular bacterial pathogens Ehrlichia chaffeensis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum have evolved to infect leukocytes and hijack biological compounds and processes of these host defensive cells. Bacterial type IV secretion (T4S) system transports macromolecules across the membrane in an ATP‐dependent manner and is increasingly recognized as a virulence factor delivery mechanism that allows pathogens to modulate eukaryotic cell functions for their own benefit. Genes encoding T4S system homologous to those of a plant pathogen Agrobacterium tumefaciens have been identified in E. chaffeensis and A. phagocytophilum. Upon interaction with new host cells, E. chaffeensis and A. phagocytophilum genes encoding the T4S apparatus are upregulated. The delivered macromolecules are referred to as T4S substrates, or effectors, because they affect and alter basic host cellular processes, resulting in disease development. Recently, A. phagocytophilum 160‐kDa AnkA protein was to be delivered by T4S system into the host cytoplasm. Thus, dynamic signal transduction events are likely induced by T4S substrates in the host cells for successful establishment of intracellular infection. Further studies on Ehrlichia and Anaplasma T4S effectors cognate host cell molecules will undoubtedly advance our understanding of the complex interplay between obligatory intracellular pathogens and their hosts. Such data can be applied toward treatment, diagnosis, and control of ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis.
The Science and Fiction of Emerging Rickettsioses
Authors: Paddock Christopher D.
Published: May 2009

As newly recognized rickettsial diseases and rickettsial pathogens increase in scope and magnitude, several elements related to the concept of emerging rickettsioses deserve consideration. Newly identified rickettsiae may be mildly pathogenic, or perhaps even nonpathogenic, and have little direct impact on human or animal health, yet nonetheless wield considerable influence on the epidemiology and ecology of historically recognized diseases. In this context “new” rickettsioses provide a lens through which “old” rickettsioses are more accurately represented. Predicting pathogen from nonpathogen is not an exact science, particularly as so few rickettsiae have been broadly accepted as nonpathogenic by contemporary rickettsiologists. However, various factors relating to specific physiologic requirements and molecular machinery of the particular rickettsia, as well as characteristics of its invertebrate host that either position or exclude the rickettsia from infecting a human host, must be considered. Close inspection of mild or atypical forms of historically recognized rickettsioses and a greater emphasis on culture‐ and molecular‐based diagnostic techniques are the keys to identifying future rickettsial agents of disease.
Insights in Bartonella Host Specificity
Authors: Vayssier‐Taussat Muriel , Le Rhun Danielle , Bonnet Sarah , Cotté Violaine
Published: May 2009

The genus Bartonella comprises a unique group of emerging gram‐negative, intracellular bacteria that can cause a long‐lasting intraerythrocytic bacteremia in their reservoir hosts. In recent years, the widespread occurrence and diversity of these bacteria has been increasingly recognized. This has resulted in a dramatic expansion of the genus Bartonella to 24 currently described species or subspecies, among which at least half have been associated with human disease. Bartonella infections have been observed in virtually all species examined, extending from humans to carnivores, ungulates, rodents, lagomorphs, insectivores, and bats. Adaptation by Bartonellae to such a diverse range of mammals has resulted in host specificity, and all validated Bartonella species described to date are capable of parasitizing only a limited number of animal species. In this review, the possible mechanisms explaining the specificity of each Bartonella species for its reservoir host are discussed.
Specific Interaction of the Legume Lectins, Concanavalin A and Peanut Agglutinin, with Phycocyanin
Authors: Pandey Gunjan , Fatma Tasneem , Komath Sneha Sudha
Published: May 2009

In a recent study, we found that jacalin, a T‐antigen specific lectin could interact with phycocyanin (PC) in a carbohydrate‐independent manner. We show here that concanavalin A and peanut agglutinin too can interact with PC, although the nature of the interaction is distinctly different from that for jacalin. The legume lectins bind PC weaker in the presence of their specific carbohydrate ligands. Like jacalin, the legume lectins too interact with PC via two distinct sites. Higher ionic strengths resulted in a weakening of the interaction at site 1 and did not affect the interaction at site 2, clearly indicating that the interactions involve charged residues at the former and hydrophobic interactions at the latter site. The implications for the use of these lectin–PC complexes in photodynamic therapy and other clinical applications are discussed.
Role of p38 MAPKs in Hypericin Photodynamic Therapy‐induced Apoptosis of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Chan Pui S. , Koon Ho K. , Wu Zhen G. , Wong Ricky N. S. , Lung Maria L. , Chang Chi K. , Mak Nai K.
Published: May 2009

The present study aims to determine the role of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in hypericin‐mediated photodynamic therapy (HY‐PDT)‐induced apoptosis of the HK‐1 nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells. HY‐PDT was found to induce proteolytic cleavage of procaspase‐9 and ‐3 in HK‐1 cells. Apoptotic nuclei were observed at 6 h after PDT whereas B‐cell leukemia/lymphoma‐2‐associated‐X‐protein (Bax) translocation and formation of Bax channel is responsible for the cell death. Increase in phosphorylation of p38 MAPKs and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase 1/2 (JNK1/2) was detected at 15–30 min after HY‐PDT. The appearance of phosphorylated form of p38 MAPKs and JNK1/2 was inhibited by the singlet oxygen scavenger l‐histidine. HY‐PDT‐induced cell death was enhanced by the chemical inhibitors for p38 MAPKs (SB202190 and SB203580), but not by the JNKs inhibitor SP600125. Knockdown of the p38α and p38β MAPK isoforms by small interfering RNA (siRNA) are more effective than the p38δ in enhancing PDT‐induced cell death. Augmentation of apoptosis by p38α or p38β knockdown is also correlated with the increased proteolytic cleavage of procaspase‐9 after HY‐PDT treatment. Our results suggested that HY‐PDT activated p38 MAPKs through the production of singlet oxygen. Inhibition of p38 MAPKs with chemical inhibitors or siRNA enhances HY‐PDT‐induced apoptosis of the HK‐1 NPC cells.
Diffuse Ultraviolet Erythemal Irradiance on Inclined Planes: A Comparison of Experimental and Modeled Data
Authors: Utrillas María P. , Marín María J. , Esteve Anna R. , Estellés Victor , Tena Fernando , Cañada Javier , Martínez‐Lozano José A.
Published: May 2009

Values of measured and modeled diffuse UV erythemal irradiance (UVER) for all sky conditions are compared on planes inclined at 40° and oriented north, south, east and west. The models used for simulating diffuse UVER are of the geometric‐type, mainly the Isotropic, Klucher, Hay, Muneer, Reindl and Schauberger models. To analyze the precision of the models, some statistical estimators were used such as root mean square deviation, mean absolute deviation and mean bias deviation. It was seen that all the analyzed models reproduce adequately the diffuse UVER on the south‐facing plane, with greater discrepancies for the other inclined planes. When the models are applied to cloud‐free conditions, the errors obtained are higher because the anisotropy of the sky dome acquires more importance and the models do not provide the estimation of diffuse UVER accurately.
Photocytotoxicity of the Fluorescent Nonsteroidal Androgen Receptor Ligand TDPQ†
Authors: Bilski Piotr J. , Risek Boris , Chignell Colin F. , Schrader William T.
Published: May 2009

1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐2,2‐dimethyl‐6‐(trifluoromethyl)‐8‐pyridono[5,6‐g]quinoline (TDPQ), a selective nonsteroidal androgen receptor (AR) ligand, is a fluorescent compound. We characterized its spectral properties in comparison with the structural precursor carbostyril 151 (C151) and with its racemic structural isomer 4‐ethyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐6‐(trifluoromethyl)‐8‐pyridino[5,6‐g]quinoline (ETPQ). The absorption maximum in CH3CN of either TDPQ or ETPQ is 400 nm whereas that of C151 is 350 nm. The fluorescence lifetimes (τ) and quantum yields (ϕf) in CH3CN are typical of fluorescent dyes: TDPQ (4.2 ns, 0.8) and ETPQ (4.6 ns, 0.76). C151 showed lowerτandϕfof 0.2 ns and 0.02, respectively. TDPQ can function as a fluorescent label at (sub)micromolar concentrations. We detected TDPQ fluorescence in human breast tumor cells using confocal microscopy. While the fluorescence maxima of the compounds were solvent insensitive, theϕffor ETPQ decreased in aqueous solutions regardless of the presence of albumin or DNA. Theϕfof TDPQ was less affected. The quantum yield of singlet oxygen (1O2) photosensitization (ϕso) by TDPQ and ETPQ was about 7% in CH3CN, sufficient to induce photocytotoxicity. TDPQ was photocytotoxic in AR‐positive MDA‐MB‐453 breast cancer cells but not in AR‐negative MDA‐MB‐231 cells. The combination of AR selectivity with photocytotoxicity makes TDPQ a promising candidate for selective targeting of AR‐positive cells during photodynamic therapy.
Photochemistry and Thermal Decarboxylation of α‐Phosphoryloxy‐p‐nitrophenylacetates
Authors: Corrie John E. T. , Munasinghe V. Ranjit N. , Rudbeck Maria , Barth Andreas
Published: May 2009

α‐Carboxy‐4‐nitrobenzyl phosphate 4 and its derived monomethyl phosphate ester 5 were synthesized and purified by anion‐exchange chromatography. A gradient of LiCl was necessary for elution of the anion‐exchange column to avoid unexpected thermal decarboxylation that occurred during vacuum evaporation when the volatile triethylammonium bicarbonate buffer was used. Photolysis of each compound was accompanied by decarboxylation, and 4 released inorganic phosphate with near‐100% stoichiometry. Time‐resolved infrared spectroscopy of the photolysis reaction, coupled with density functional theory calculations of vibrational frequencies, enabled us to infer a mechanism for the photolytic pathway, although there was some evidence for a second pathway also being operative. In contrast to the results for 4, photolysis of 5 appeared to release little or no monomethyl phosphate.
Reconstruction of Solar Spectral Surface UV Irradiances Using Radiative Transfer Simulations
Authors: Lindfors Anders , Heikkilä Anu , Kaurola Jussi , Koskela Tapani , Lakkala Kaisa
Published: May 2009

UV radiation exerts several effects concerning life on Earth, and spectral information on the prevailing UV radiation conditions is needed in order to study each of these effects. In this paper, we present a method for reconstruction of solar spectral UV irradiances at the Earth’s surface. The method, which is a further development of an earlier published method for reconstruction of erythemally weighted UV, relies on radiative transfer simulations, and takes as input (1) the effective cloud optical depth as inferred from pyranometer measurements of global radiation (300–3000 nm); (2) the total ozone column; (3) the surface albedo as estimated from measurements of snow depth; (4) the total water vapor column; and (5) the altitude of the location. Reconstructed daily cumulative spectral irradiances at Jokioinen and Sodankylä in Finland are, in general, in good agreement with measurements. The mean percentage difference, for instance, is mostly within ±8%, and the root mean square of the percentage difference is around 10% or below for wavelengths over 310 nm and daily minimum solar zenith angles (SZA) less than 70°. In this study, we used pseudospherical radiative transfer simulations, which were shown to improve the performance of our method under large SZA (low Sun).
From Successful Family Planning to the Lowest of Low Fertility Levels: Taiwan’s Dilemma
Authors: Lin Wan‐I , Yang Shin‐Yi
Published: May 2009

Since the implementation of family planning in the 1960s, Taiwan’s fertility rate has rapidly decreased. This was praised as a family planning achievement. However, in the 21st century Taiwan has become one of the lowest of low fertility countries like European countries [Kohler, H. P., Billari, F. C., & Ortega, J. A. (2002). Population and Development Review, 28(4), 641–80]. The government has begun to worry that these extremely low birthrates will result in rapid population aging and bring about other negative socio‐economic effects. Thus, in its Mega Warmth Social Welfare Program (MWSWP) of 2006, the Taiwanese government targeted the issue of low birthrates. Based on secondary data analysis, we found that the reasons for rapid decrease in Taiwanese birthrates are: (i) a declining marriage rate; (ii) later marriage; (iii) changing attitudes towards child bearing; (iv) the burdens of child care; and (v) an increase in female labour participation rates. The MWSWP includes maternity leave benefits, parental leave benefits, a childcare subsidy system and early children education and care (ECEC). First, this article presents a chronological understanding of the demography in Taiwan. Second, we attempt to evaluate the reasons contributing to the low birthrates. The policy response to this is discussed next. Finally, the article provides a careful conclusion: that the extent to which these policies can significantly stop the population from declining requires further observation.
The Sufic Paradigm for Stress Management and its Contribution to a Model of Social Work Practice
Authors: Hatta Zulkarnain A.
Published: May 2009

This article presents Sufism as a model for helping to alleviate human miseries. As the instability, contradictions, and stress of the socioeconomic structure create a frantic search for relevant modes of treatment, the theories and methods espoused in Sufism present an alternative approach to be taken up in the interest of more effective practice; especially in the field of social work, psychology, and counseling. Sufic masters or teachers, by the nature of their work are social workers; hence, their role in helping stressed people is discussed. Existing tools of measurement that can test stress levels are used in order to present Sufism as being compatible with the mode of scientific inquiry. The article shows that sticking to traditional psychoanalytic, behavioral, transactional and analytical practices, to name a few, limits the avenues of help that can be offered to those in need. Social workers and human service agencies have to work in collaboration with religious institutions and other spiritual organizations in order to better serve the population.
Staging the Debate: Loyalist‐Britishness and Masculinities in the Plays of Gary Mitchell
Authors: McDowell Wallace
Published: May 2009

This paper, which emanates from the field of theatre studies, examines plays written by Belfast writer Gary Mitchell in and around the time of the Good Friday (Belfast) Agreement of 1998. Mitchell occupies a unique position in Irish theatre, being the first playwright to emerge from and offer a dramatic critique of paramilitary‐dominated Loyalist communities. Central to the paper is the argument that Mitchell offers a set of important insights into how such communities reflect academic debates around masculinities, imagined national communities and the relationship between masculinity and violence. The paper looks at three plays which received premieres around the time of the Belfast agreement and utilises the theoretical approaches offered by proponents of hegemonic masculinity as well as post‐Foucauldian thinkers.
The PTEN–AKT3 signaling cascade as a therapeutic target in melanoma
Authors: Madhunapantula SubbaRao V. , Robertson Gavin P.
Published: May 2009

Melanocytes undergo extensive genetic changes during transformation into aggressive melanomas. These changes deregulate genes whose aberrant activity promotes the development of this disease. The phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase (PI3K) and mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase pathways are two key signaling cascades that have been found to play prominent roles in melanoma development. These pathways relay extra‐cellular signals via an ordered series of consecutive phosphorylation events from cell surface throughout the cytoplasm and nucleus regulating diverse cellular processes including proliferation, survival, invasion and angiogenesis. It is generally accepted that therapeutic agents would need to target these two pathways to be an effective therapy for the long‐term treatment of advanced‐stage melanoma patients. This review provides an overview of the PI3 kinase pathway focusing specifically on two members of the pathway, called PTEN and Akt3, which play important roles in melanoma development. Mechanisms leading to deregulation of these two proteins and therapeutic implications of targeting this signaling cascade to treat melanoma are detailed in this review.
ADRENALIN THERAPY IN GLAUCOMA
Authors: VANNAS SALME , LINKOVA MATTI
Published: May 2009

The lowering effect of adrenaline on intraocular pressure was discovered at the end of the 19th century (Darier 1894). Adrenalin was synthetised in 1904 and soon afterwards its potential for the treatment of glaucoma began to attract attention (Erdman 1914, Hamburger 1923, M. Vannas 1927). In his monograph, M. Vannas drew attention also to the untoward effects of adrenalin therapy that had been observed at that time. After the introduction of gonioscopy at the end of the 1930s it became possible to define accurately the indications for adrenalin therapy, but the limitations of a more general use of adrenalin have continued to be the poor keeping quality of the drops due to oxidation and their irritating effect.
PIGMENT GRANULES IN IRIS PIGMENT EPITHELIUM OF DIABETICS
Authors: HVIDBERG‐HANSEN J.
Published: May 2009

The iris pigment epithelium of four diabetics has been studied with special reference to its fine structure. Some of the pigment granules were seen to have undergone changes, being apparently in a state of disintegration. Further, accumulation of glycogen was noticed in the cells and in the intercellular spaces.
IMPORTANCE OF CALLOSAL TRANSFER IN THE EXTRAMACULAR INHIBITION PHENOMENON ALONG THE HEMIOPIC BORDER
Authors: EHLERS NIELS
Published: May 2009

The hemiopic border may be demonstrated in normal subjects by 2‐object campimetry, as an inhibition of the perception of one of the objects. When two horizontally disparate objects pass the border, the perception of the first object is inhibited. After a certain distance where only one object can be seen, the first distinctly reappears. After a further movement the second object also becomes distinct. This phenomenon has been studied with various object sizes and distances. In 7 patients with agenesia corporis callosi no inhibition could be demonstrated, suggesting a callosal transfer in the normal inhibition.

The inhibition phenomenon probably illustrates the adaptation mechanism which must exist in order to correlate the function of the two hemiretinae.
THE CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION OF MACULO‐PATHIES IN ADULTS A SURVEY
Authors: ROSENBERG THOMAS , FAURSCHOU SVEND , NIELSEN NORMAN
Published: May 2009

The development of fluorescein angiography and the introduction of laser technology into the treatment of macular diseases has considerably widened our knowledge of the pathological processes in the macular region. A number of clinicopathological reports have confirmed the angio‐graphic findings and interpretations.

The aetiological factors that lay behind the clinical lesions are, however, still unknown.

The clinical pictures have, as a result of the above, more relation to the histological than to the aetiological classifications.

Clinical classification includes an analysis and categorization of the individual diseases. This process takes place daily in the surgery of every ophthalmologist by means of the ophthalmoscope.

The ophthalmoscopical examination is enhanced by knowledge of the angiographic picture of the lesion. This means that in the great majority of cases it is possible using the ophthalmoscope alone, to evaluate the type and anatomical localization of the pathological lesions. Fluorescein angiography is the most important single supplementary examination, both with regard to the diagnosis, indication for treatment and the follow‐up.

The present work describes 9 clinically and histopathologically well‐defined lesions, which isolated or in combination are seen in the majority of adult macular diseases.
The Kerala Decentration Meter
Authors: Joseph Thomas K. , Kartha C. P.
Published: May 2009

Centring of spectacle lenses is a much neglected field of ophthalmology. The prismatic effect caused by wrong centring results in a phoria on the eye muscles which in turn causes persistent eyestrain. The theory of visual axis, optical axis and angle alpha is discussed. Using new methods the visual axis and optical axis of 35 subjects were measured. The results were computed for facial asymmetry, parallax error, angle alpha and also decentration for near vision. The results show that decentration is required on account of each of these factors. Considerable correction is needed in the vertical direction, a fact much neglected nowadays; and vertical decentration results in vertical phoria which is more symptomatic than horizontal phorias. Angle Alpha was computed for each of these patients. A new devise called ‘The Kerala Decentration Meter’ using the pinhole method for measuring the degree of decentration from the datum centre of the frame, and capable of correcting all the factors described above, is shown with diagrams.
HIGHER FUNCTIONS AND PLASTICITY IN VISUAL PATHWAYS
Authors: HYVÄRINEN JUHANI , HYVÄRINEN LEA
Published: May 2009

A summary of the visual pathways in the brain is presented as a basis for considering abnormalities in this system. The role of the cortical associative regions in visual function is briefly delineated. A short summary of experiments describing plastic properties of the visual pathways at early age is also presented, and experiments describing neural and behavioural changes after binocular deprivation are reviewed. It is concluded that early visual deprivation leads to a profound alteration of the associative systems of the brain and that in monkeys and humans these changes are difficult to remedy later. Therefore early detection and correction of visual abnormalities is very important as well as early compensation using other forms of sensory communication.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF BINOCULAR FUNCTION IN INFANCY
Authors: BRADDICK OLIVER , ATKINSON JANETTE
Published: May 2009

Binocular function in infancy can be assessed by means of the visual evoked potential (VEP) induced by a dynamic random dot pattern which alternates between a binocularly correlated and an anticorrelated state. A VEP timelocked to the alternation can only be produced by binocular interaction in the cortex. This interaction becomes detectable at around three months of age. Optokinetic nystagmus (OKN) in monocular viewing becomes symmetrical in nasal and temporal directions around the same age. Animal analogues and clinical cases suggest that this may also be an indicator of cortical binocularity. These techniques may be applicable to clinical assessment of binocular function in young infants.
PHOTOREFRACTION: A USEFUL TOOL TO DETECT REFRACTION ERRORS
Authors: SJÖSTRAND J. , ABRAHAMSSON M. , FABIAN G. , WENNHALL O.
Published: May 2009

A simple photorefraction method using simultaneous photography of corneal and fundus reflexes have been used to screen 239 children aged 10 to 15 months for significant refraction errors. The photorefraction results were calibrated to those of cycloplegic retinoscopy. A good agreement was found between the 2 sets of values. The frequency distribution of refraction errors were similar to those presented by Ingram (1979). The aim to detect hyperopia ≥+2 or myopia ≥‐4 diopters together with significant anisometropia or astigmatism was fullfilled with high reliability. Low degrees of hyperopia, myopia and astigmatism might be missed. Photorefraction therefore is considered to be a reliable, simple and cheap tool with high sensitivity and specificity in screening small children for significant refraction errors.
COLOUR VISION AND SPECTRAL SENSITIVITY IN CHILDREN WITH VISUAL HANDICAPS
Authors: HEDIN ANDERS
Published: May 2009

In children with a visual handicap, colour vision testing may provide additional cues to diagnosis. Some information is given by pseudo‐isochromatic plates. More informative are the arrangement tests, especially the Panel D‐15. These tests can be used also in cases with severely reduced visual acuity. In suspected achromatopsia, the scotopic spectral sensitivity can be revealed by the D‐15 test, the anomaloscope, or measuring the spectral sensitivity.
CLINICAL ASSESSMENT OF VISUAL FUNCTIONS IN INFANTS AND YOUNG CHILDREN
Authors: LENNERSTRAND GUNNAR , ANDERSSON GUNNEL , AXELSSON ANNETTE
Published: May 2009

We report our experience with 2 new methods of assessing visual functions in children: grating acuity determination by means of preferential looking technique and contrast sensitivity measurements. Acuity determinations with preferential looking proved useful for evaluation of the effects of amblyopia treatment in young children (0–3 years) with esotropia and for monitoring visual development in children operated early for congenital cataract. We have also used these methods successfully for diagnostic acuity determinations in very young children or in older but mentally retarded children with suspected visual impairment. In 4‐year‐old children contrast thresholds were determined for sine wave gratings of different spatial frequencies displayed on an oscilloscope screen. The results were less reproducable than those obtained earlier in somewhat older children, and did not correlate as well as the results of other visual tests as in the older children.
WHY ARE THE BLIND AND SEVERELY VISUALLY IMPAIRED CHILDREN WITH MENTAL RETARDATION MUCH MORE RETARDED THAN THE SIGHTED CHILDREN?
Authors: WARBURG METTE
Published: May 2009

Five per cent of mentally retarded children in Denmark have a visual acuity below 6/60 as compared to 0.02% in the normal child population. Profound mental retardation was more prevalent among the visually impaired than among the sighted patients. An analysis was performed concerning the correlation between the degree of retardation and the severity of visual impairment, chronological age, number of complicating signs, and degree of motor impairment. The degree of mental retardation was also compared with the aetiology of visual impairment. Severe motor impairment was closely correlated with profound mental retardation.
THE ASSESSMENT OF ‘VISION FOR DEVELOPMENT’ IN SEVERELY VISUALLY HANDICAPPED BABIES
Authors: SONKSEN PATRICIA M.
Published: May 2009

Vision makes a substantial contribution to the pattern and rate of normal development. Considering infant development in 3 phases, global, integrative and specific the most important attributes of vision to development within each phase are discussed. A method for assessment of the aspects of vision most relevant to each childs current developmental needs is described and a philosophy outlined whereby the findings can be represented as a balanced practical prescription for development. The development of the visual system is often delayed in visually handicapped babies; some reasons are put forward and a concern that many may never achieve their potential maximum visual competence is expressed. A method for evaluating the current stage of visual development in a visually handcapped baby is described in which the findings form the starting point of a programme towards achieving maximum visual competence as young as possible.
EARLY VISUO‐OCULOMOTOR DEVELOPMENT IN VISUALLY IMPAIRED CHILDREN
Authors: LINDSTEDT EVA
Published: May 2009

The early development of impaired visual functions awaits the serious consideration of clinicians and researchers. Rudimentary vision may be influnced very much by active stimulation during early weeks and years of life. Methods of assessment of visual functions and of visual stimulation/habilitation has to be renewed and properly evaluated. The procedures used at a Centre for Visually Handicapped Children in Sweden, when dealing with small children with very reduced vision, are reported. The influence of various factors on visual and oculomotor functions is discussed.
HLA AND EXTERNAL DISEASES OF THE EYE
Authors: OHNO SHIGEAKI
Published: May 2009

Among the external diseases of the eye, pemphigus vulgaris, ocular cicatrical pemphigoid, Sjögren's syndrome, herpes simplex keratitis, Cogan's syndrome, scleritis, vernal catarrh, keratoconus, tuberculoid leprosy, Mooren's ulcer, staphylococcal peripheral corneal ulcerations, non‐herpetic keratitis and corneal dystrophy have been studied for the association with HLA antigens. Pemphigus vulgaris is shown to be associated with HLA‐A10 (A26), and HLA‐DR4, ocular cicatrical pemphigoid with HLA‐B12, Sjögren's syndrome with HLA‐Dw3 and HLA‐DR3, and tuberculoid leprosy with HLA‐DR2.
HLA AND FUCHS‘ HETEROCHROMIC CYCLITIS
Authors: SAARI K. M.
Published: May 2009

The frequencies of HLA‐A, B and C antigens were determined in 24 patients with Fuchs' heterochromia cyclitis. The frequencies of HLA antigens in these patients compared well with the frequencies in the controls.
HLA AND SARCOIDOSIS
Authors: OHNO SHIQEAKI
Published: May 2009

Various immunologic alterations have been shown in sarcoidosis. HLA studies showed that HLA‐A2 and HLA‐B13 were slightly increased in the patients, but statistical analysis showed no significant difference. In sarcoidosis, no significant association with specific HLA antigens has been confirmed in any population.
HLA AND VOGT‐KOYANAGI‐HARADA DISEASE
Authors: OHNO SHIGEAKI
Published: May 2009

Vogt‐Koyanagi‐Harada's disease is more frequently seen in dark‐skinned people. Immunogenetically‐determined susceptibility may play a role in this disease. In the Japanese patients, it was shown that this disease is closely associated with HLA‐Bw54, DWa, DR4 and MT3. Furthermore, HLA‐A9, Bw54, Cw1, DWa, DR4, MT3 and MB3 are in strong linkage disequilibrium in the Japanese, but not in Caucasians. Immunogenetic predisposition closely associated with HLA may therefore elucidate the racial difference of this disease.
HLA AND GRAVES‘ DISEASE
Authors: OHNO SHIQEAKI
Published: May 2009

Graves' disease is closely associated with haplo‐type HLA‐Al‐B8‐Cw7‐Dw3‐DR3‐MB2 in Caucasians, similar to other autoimmune diseases. In the Japanese, however, HLA‐DR5 and HLA‐MB3' are significantly increased.
INFRARED RADIATION AND CATARACT I EPIDEMIOLOGIC INVESTIGATION OF IRON‐ AND STEEL‐WORKERS
Authors: Lydahl Eva , Philipson Bo
Published: May 2009

The aim of the presented study was to establish if occupational exposure to infrared (IR) radiation increases the risk of developing cataract, and to correlate the lens findings to the degree of exposure. The eyes of 208 IR‐exposed workers and 208 controls, all from six Swedish iron and steel manufacturing plants, were examined. An increased prevalence of wedge‐shaped opacities was found in IR‐exposed persons 60 years of age and older. This type of lens opacity is normally considered to be a purely senile change. Acceleration of senile changes by IR‐radiation is suggested. Stratification of the material with regard to exposure was made on different grounds but failed to show a dose‐effect‐correlation.
INFRARED RADIATION AND CATARACT II ‐ EPIDEMIOLOGIC INVESTIGATION OF GLASS WORKERS
Authors: Lydahl Eva , Philipson Bo
Published: May 2009

An epidemiologic investigation on the prevalence of cataract in glass workers is presented. The study includes 209 workers over 50 years of age exposed to infrared (IR) radiation in the Swedish manual glass industry for 20 years or more, and 298 non IR exposed controls. The examination includes an evaluation of the individual IR‐exposure and an ophthalmological examination with special reference to the lens. In IR exposed workers 70 years of age and older there is a statistically significant increase of aphakia and of all types of cataract, subcapsular, cuneiform and nuclear, compared to the controls of the same age group. In the same age group the risk for an IR‐exposed worker to have his vision reduced by cataract to 0.7 or less is 2.5 times as high as for non exposed controls (95% confidence interval 1.4‐4.4). The risk that he will have to be operated for cataract is 12 times as high (95% confidence interval 2.6–53). It is concluded, that the occupational IR‐exposure of the glass workers accelerates the development of senile changes in the lens. All workers with a high exposure to IR radiation should be equipped with adequate eye protection.
INFRARED RADIATION AND CATARACT III DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE TWO EYES OF GLASS WORKERS
Authors: Lydahl Eva , Glansholm Anders
Published: May 2009

In an epidemiologic investigation of the eyes of 209 glass workers with occupational exposure to infrared (IR) radiation and 298 non IR‐exposed controls, the two eyes were compared regarding the degree of lens opacities. The left eye was found to be the most affected in a significantly larger number of persons than the right in IR‐exposed workers. The exposure to the two eyes was measured with a system of two pyroelectric radiometers mounted in a face mask. The left eye was found to be exposed up to 2.3 times as much as the right in some working moments and never less. These results show a dose‐effect correlation between IR‐exposure and cataract.
HEREDITY, A RISK FACTOR FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF GLASS BLOWERS‘ CATARACT
Authors: Lydahl Eva
Published: May 2009

Heredity for cataract was penetrated in an epidemiologic investigation on cataract in glass workers with a high occupational exposure to infrared (IR) radiation. Heredity was found to increase the risk for IR‐exposed workers, 70 years of age and older, of developing an advanced cataract by 2–3 times. Synergism between heredity and the cataractogenic factor, occupational IR‐exposure, is suggested.
OCCUPATIONAL EYE INJURIES IN FINLAND
Authors: SAARI K. M. , PARVI V.
Published: May 2009

In Finland 11.9% of all industrial accidents in 1973 were eye injuries including superficial eye injuries (79.2%), ultraviolet burns of the cornea (3.9%), eye burns (3.6%), blunt ocular trauma (2.5%), wounds (2.4%), and post‐traumatic infections (5.8%). Eye injuries constituted 34.3% of all industrial accidents which needed only ambulatory treatment and 17.5% of all industrial accidents causing an absence for 1–2 days. In 1981 2.1% of all compensated industrial accidents (incapacity for work 3 days or more) were eye injuries. Most compensated eye injuries occurred in manufacturing and in construction work (80.4%) and 8.5% occurred in agriculture. The annual incidence rates of compensated accidents to the eyes (accidents × 1 000/number of employees) were highest in several branches of metal industry (4.96–6.88), excavating and foundation work (6.88), and in logging (5.64). Compensated eye injuries were caused by machines (32.8%), hand tools (25.6%), other equipment and constructions (4.8%), work environment (23.6%), chemical substances (10.8%), and other accidents (2.3%).
EYE INJURIES IN AGRICULTURE
Authors: SAARI K. M. , AINE E.
Published: May 2009

To study eye injuries in agriculture we reviewed the case records of 662 patients with eye injuries treated at the Department of Ophthalmology, Central Hospital of Tampere between the years 1972 and 1979. Of the whole material 96 (14.5%) were agricultural workers, 74 (77%) male and 22 (23%) female, with the mean age of 43 years. The mean annual incidence of eye injuries in agriculture was 3.46 per 10.000 people which was higher than in industry (1.9 per 10.000 people) but lower than in construction (5.28 per 10.000 people). The use of AIV solution was the most frequent cause of eye injury in farming (6/10) and was the most common cause of all chemical eye burns in agriculture (6/7). Cow butting with horn caused all eye injuries in dairying; 50% of these were perforating eye injuries. In lumbering, forest work or a flying piece of wood at chopping caused eye injuries in 29 cases including 19 cases with blunt ocular trauma and 8 cases with perforating eye injuries. Hammering was the most frequent cause of injury in repair work (7/16). Unilateral blindness was seen in 17 cases (17.7%). It was caused mostly by cow butting with horn (6 cases) or lumbering (5 cases). The importance of employment of protective eye screen or glasses also in agriculture is pointed out.
MANAGEMENT OF CHEMICAL EYE INJURIES WITH PROLONGED IRRIGATION
Authors: SAARI K. M. , LEINONEN J. , AINE E.
Published: May 2009

To study the effect of prolonged irrigation in the treatment of chemical eye injuries we reviewed the case records of 172 patients. Most of the patients were men in working age. The injury was caused by acid in 57 patients (33%). Of the acid burns, 28 were due to AIV solution commonly used in agriculture in Finland, and 27 were due to inorganic acids. Alkaline burns occurred in 64 (37%) patients including 33 cases with natrium hydroxide and 20 cases with mortar and cement burns. Other chemicals including organic solvents and surfactants caused the eye burn in 51 (30%) cases. Fifty three patients mostly with alkaline and acid burns were treated with prolonged irrigation with one liter of physiological saline using intravenous delivery system during 1–2 hours. The extent of damage was smaller, the visual outcome better, and the duration of treatment at the hospital and absence from work were shorter in patients treated with prolonged irrigation than without such treatment.
TOXICOLOGIC EFFECTS ON THE EYES AT WORK
Authors: TEIR HENRIK
Published: May 2009

This review presents some examples of toxic effects on the eyes at work. The type of toxic action ranges from direct splash injuries to late effects of chronic toxic exposure of systemically absorbed substances. The site of toxic action can be on the cornea and conjunctiva, on the retina, on the optic nerve and the visual pathways and even at the visual cortex.
AGE AND SEX DISTRIBUTION OF SOME RETINAL MACULAR DISEASES: SENILE AND PRESENILE MACULAR DEGENERATION AND CENTRAL SEROUS RETINITIS
Authors: KNAVE BENGT , TENGROTH BJÖRN , VOSS MARGARETHA
Published: May 2009

The age and sex distribution of senile macular degeneration (SMD) was investigated at the Low Vision Clinic in Stockholm. SMD increased with age and was found to be more common among women than men. This difference was not due to the fact that women live longer than men or related to women consulting ophthalmologists more often than men because of visual handicap. The age and sex distribution of presenile macular degeneration (PSMD) and central serous retinitis (CSR) was investigated at the Department of Ophthalmology of Falun Hospital. Also PSMD increased with age and was found to be more common among women than men, even if the sex difference was not as clear as for SMD. CSR was found to be more frequent at younger ages and, contrary to SMD and PSMD, more common among men. The reasons for these sex differences in frequencies of SMD, PSMD and CSR are not known.
CONTACT LENSES AND THE WORK ENVIRONMENT
Authors: MÄKITIE JUKKA
Published: May 2009

Controversial opinions have been presented about the use of contact lenses in industrial environments. Work environments contain few obstacles to the use of contact lenses, but many occupations are associated with the risk of excessive difficulties, spoilation, irritation, or complications. From the radiant energy the shorter (280 nm) ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths and the longer (1300 nm) infra‐red (IR) wavelengths are absorbed by contact lenses, the absorption increases their temperature and may cause corneal complications. Protective glasses, however, absorb more than 99.5% of the UV and IR energy and thus provide sufficient protection for contact lens wearers exposed to UV or IR radiation. The advantages and risks of contact lenses in industrial work are discussed.
TESTING OF COLOUR VISION FOR VOCATIONAL PURPOSES
Authors: AARNISALO EERO
Published: May 2009

All red‐green defects of colour vision can be effectively screened with a combination of two pseudo‐isochromatic tests. Severe (major) colour vision defects regarded as a serious handicap in all occupations needing colour naming ability can be quickly detected with the Panel D‐15 dichotomous test. Only a trained ophthalmologist can make the detailed estimation of the type and degree of the colour vision defect with the aid of the anomaloscope and the Farnsworth‐Munsell 100‐hue test. In the diagnosis of a congenital colour vision defect the exclusion of an eye disease with a consecutive acquired colour vision defect is important.
ON THE PATHOLOGY OF THE CILIARY SULCUS
Authors: Stefani F. H.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The so‐called ciliary sulcus of the posterior chamber of the eye is the place of fixation for some of the posterior chamber lenses. It is only recently that this borderline between the iris root and the ciliary processes gained more interest among clinical ophthalmologists. Little is known on tissue reactions in ocular diseases at this very location. Possible reactions are presented based on the material of the Department of Ocular Pathology of the University Eye Hospital München. The main result of this study is the finding of marked fibrovascular proliferative reactions in inflammatory diseases, and vascular proliferations in diabetic and postthrombotic neovascular glaucoma. It is suggested that such proliferations might be the source of intraocular bleeding after posterior chamber lens implantation.
PSEUDOPHACO — ANAPHYLACTIC ENDOPHTHALMITIS —? P.M.M.A. RELATED
Authors: Mullaney J. , Condon P. I.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The pathological findings of pseudophacoanaphylactic endophthalmitis are described in a patient with a combined trabeculectomy, extracapsular cataract extraction and an »in‐the‐bag» posterior chamber lens implant, and who developed sympathetic ophthalmitis following a perforating eye injury within hours of his operation. Apart from the typical sympathetic histological findings, the eye revealed a pseudophaco‐anaphylactic endophthalmitis reaction which appeared to be totally related to the polymethylmethacrylate (P.M.M.A.) optic. The »in‐the‐bag» polypropylene closed loops revealed no significant histological reaction.
MICROSCOPIC — CYTOLOGIC INVESTIGATIONS ON EXPLANTED INTRAOCULAR LENSES
Authors: Goder G. J. , Völker‐Dieben H. J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Nine iris supported anterior chamber lenses were removed during keratoplasty, eight of them on account of bullous pseudophakic keratopathy. They were examined cytologically according to the method of WOLTER. No one revealed a complete cellular — membraneous capsule. This membrane has with great probability a protective function. Four basic types of cells could be characterized. All cells of the borders of the eye chambers are involved but predominantly mobile and sessile macrophages are the source of the covering cells. The cellularity depends on the type of the lens and the material of the lens and on the clinical picture of the disease. Supramid is worse than prolene. Dangerous are pseudophakodonesis and endothelial contact.