bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Syllabi Expectations Between Faculty and Students in a Baccalaureate Nursing Program
Authors: Davis Shoni , Schrader Vivian
Published: April 2009

This study aimed to explore and compare expectations of syllabi between students and faculty in a university baccalaureate nursing department. Knowing what students expect from syllabi can lead to improved student success and may reduce faculty time in clarifying class policies.

Faculty and nursing students from eight semesters volunteered to complete a survey exploring syllabi definitions, pertinent content, and the importance of student involvement in syllabi development. The findings suggest there are differences between faculty and student perceptions regarding important syllabi content. Students wanted syllabi that provided the nuts and bolts of how to accomplish each assignment and course requirement most efficiently. Faculty preferred information about student behavior, such as student conduct, participation, and attendance rules. Adult Learning Theory was used to explain these differences. This article points out that faculty may not be as in touch with the needs of adult learners as they claim to be.
A Collaborative Approach to Group Experiential Learning with Undergraduate Nursing Students
Authors: Kinyon Jane , Keith Cynthia Bozich , Pistole M. Carole
Published: April 2009

Because many nursing responsibilities are accomplished in groups, undergraduate nursing curricula need to prepare students in the skills required to function effectively in groups. This article describes an interdisciplinary, group experiential learning approach used with baccalaureate nursing students as group participants and graduate counseling psychology students as facilitators. This teaching method provides learning to enhance the knowledge and skills of students preparing for both professions.
Alternate Item Types: Continuing the Quest for Authentic Testing
Authors: Wendt Anne , Kenny Lorraine E.
Published: April 2009

Many test developers suggest that multiple-choice items can be used to evaluate critical thinking if the items are focused on measuring higher order thinking ability. The literature supports the use of alternate item types to assess additional competencies, such as higher level cognitive processing and critical thinking, as well as ways to allow examinees to demonstrate their competencies differently. This research study surveyed nurses after taking a test composed of alternate item types paired with multiple-choice items. The participants were asked to provide opinions regarding the items and the item formats. Demographic information was asked. In addition, information was collected as the participants responded to the items. The results of this study reveal that the participants thought that, in general, the items were more authentic and allowed them to demonstrate their competence better than multiple-choice items did. Further investigation into the optimal blend of alternate items and multiple-choice items is needed.
A New Mechanism for Brown's Syndrome
Authors: Abrams Michael S.
Published: April 2009

This case report describes a child who developed an acquired bilateral sequential Brown's syndrome, confirmed each time intraoperatively, that is likely the result of a new mechanism not previously described in the literature. Arguments are provided to support the premise of a new mechanism and a new measure of relative trochlear position is suggested to further elucidate the role of “desagittalization” of the superior oblique tendon in the spectrum of superior oblique dysfunction.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:115–117.]
Levodopa/Carbidopa in the Treatment of Amblyopia
Authors: Dadeya Subhash , Vats Pankaj , Malik K. P. S.
Published: April 2009

Purpose:

To evaluate the role of levodopa/carbidopa in the treatment of amblyopia.

Methods:

Thirty patients with strabismic amblyopia between the ages of 3 and 12 years were part of this double-blind, randomized study. Patients were divided into two groups. Group A received 0.50 mg + 1.25 mg of levodopa/carbidopa per kilogram body weight three times daily after meals, with a protein rich drink, whereas Group B received placebo. Both groups received full-time conventional occlusion until a visual acuity of 6/6 was achieved or for a maximum of 3 months.

Results:

The authors observed more than two lines improvement in visual acuity that was greater in the levodopa group (15 of 15) than in the placebo group (9 of 15) (
P
< .005). Furthermore, improvement in visual acuity of more than two lines was greater in patients younger than 8 years (100%) than in patients older than 8 years of age (60%) (
P
= .0026). There was also no significant reversal of the improved visual acuity in up to 6 months of follow-up.

Conclusion:

Levodopa/carbidopa improves visual acuity in patients with amblyopia and maintains improved visual acuity, especially in patients younger than 8 years.

[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:87–90.]
Acquired Capillary Hemangioma of the Eyelid in a Child
Authors: Garg Rajiv , Gupta Noopur , Sharma Anuradha , Jain Rajesh , Beri Sarita , D'Souza Pamela
Published: April 2009

Acquired capillary hemangioma of the eyelid in adults is uncommon. The authors report an unusual case of acquired capillary hemangioma in a 12-year-old pubertal girl. The importance of development of such vascular lesions at puberty, due to hormonal changes and increased estrogen levels, is highlighted.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:118–119.]
Infantile Aperiodic Alternating Nystagmus
Authors: Hertle Richard W. , Reznick Leah , Yang Dongsheng
Published: April 2009

Background:

This study identifies the clinical and ocular motility characteristics of the periodic and aperiodic forms of infantile alternating nystagmus (IAPAN) and establishes the range of electrophysiological and clinical characteristics while providing clues to its presence and pathophysiology.

Methods:

Seventy-eight patients with ocular oscillations consistent with IAPAN were reported. Outcome variables were: age, follow-up in months, vision, strabismus, other eye and systemic abnormalities, head position, periodicity, cycle and null period duration, foveation time, waveforms, and cycle symmetry.

Results:

Age range was 1 to 67 years, 50% had pure periodic and aperiodic forms, 46% had albinism, 26% had binocular acuity of 20/40 or greater, 72% had strabismus, 35% had amblyopia, 31% had other eye disease, 14% had systemic disease, 87% had an anomalous head posture, and 65% had binocular directional asymmetry. The periodic cycle averaged 224 seconds and the aperiodic cycle ranged from 2 to more than 300 seconds. One in three patients with strabismus and nystagmus periodicity had a static head posture.

Conclusion:

Fifteen percent of the infantile nystagmus syndrome population had either the periodic or aperiodic form. A changing null period is often clinically missed because of long or irregular cycles, decreased acuity, associated strabismus, and either a nonexistent or inconsistent head posture. The changing null period is easier to recognize using eye movement recordings or if the non-preferred eye is occluded and the preferred eye is examined with the head straight and gaze in primary position for at least 5 to 7 minutes. The recognition of this variant has profound treatment implications.

[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:93–103.]
Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis Mimicking Preseptal Cellulitis
Authors: Kempster Roxanne , Ang Ghee S. , Galloway Gavin , Beigi Bijan
Published: April 2009

A 7-year-old girl presented with signs of preseptal cellulitis that initially responded to antibiotics but then relapsed. Computed tomography scan revealed a cystic lesion in the preseptal tissues with associated soft tissue swelling and lacrimal gland inflammation. Anterior orbitotomy revealed a hemorrhagic-appearing lesion extending from the preseptal tissues subperiosteally along the roof of the orbit. The lesion was excised and histopathology and immunohistochemical staining confirmed a diagnosis of Langerhans histiocytosis. Management of this condition depends on the extent of systemic involvement, with single bony lesions usually pursuing a benign course and often spontaneously regressing or resolving following biopsy. This case serves to highlight that an underlying cause for preseptal cellulitis should be sought and if there are relapses or inadequately resolving signs of preseptal cellulitis, then prompt investigation to rule out other causes is required.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:108–111.]
Worksite Wellness
Authors: Fritsch Michelle A. , Montpellier Julie , Kussman Cyra
Published: April 2009

A 7-month intervention was undertaken to determine the impact of education and coaching on lifestyle choices and lipid values among employees with hyperlipidemia. Four classes over 2 months at the worksite during work time and two telephone interventions were provided with pre, mid, and post data collection. Total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein values improved during the intervention. Positive lifestyle changes were made involving exercise and diet. Appropriate physician visits and continuous health care increased. Lipid-based interventions at the worksite can elicit positive changes in lifestyle, appropriate health care use, and improved lipid values.
Workplace Incivility, Bullying, and Mobbing
Authors: Wachs Joy
Published: April 2009

Incivility, bullying, and mobbing at the workplace negatively impact the company and the work force.
High Blood Pressure—When Should Employees Be Sent Home from Work?
Authors: Foster Donna
Published: April 2009

This article explores guidelines for hypertension and why individuals do not control their hypertension.
Evaluation of Menopausal Interventions at a Japanese Company
Authors: Ariyoshi Hiromi
Published: April 2009

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the impact of interventions for menopausal symptoms among employees at a newspaper company in Japan and to clarify the role of the occupational health nurse. Since 2000, the company has focused on creating a comfortable work environment for its female employees. As part of this effort, this research study also aimed to evaluate a system to support employees experiencing menopausal symptoms. Methods of evaluation included surveys of current employees or former employees with symptoms of menopause and case studies of three women. As a result of these data, it became clear that differentiating between menopausal disorders and mental health issues was not always easy. However, comparisons before and after implementing changes in the health system revealed that the number of women describing symptoms of menopause decreased from 5 to 0, and the number of women retiring, dying while still employed, or taking more than 4 days of sick leave in a month decreased from 3 to 0. This research revealed that interventions for menopause, similar to mental health interventions, require specific human resources and systemic support.
The Role of Occupational Health Nurses in Terrorist Attacks Employing Radiological Dispersal Devices
Authors: Cabrera Suzanne Lobaton , Beaton Randal D.
Published: April 2009

The potential for biological, chemical, radiological, or nuclear terrorism has been widely acknowledged since the events of September 11, 2001. Terrorists' use of a radiological dispersal device (RDD), or dirty bomb, is considered to be a threat for which Americans must prepare. Occupational health nurses must have the knowledge and skill set to plan for, respond to, and recover from a radiologic event potentially affecting significant numbers of first responders as well as businesses and their workers. This article describes the hazards related to RDDs and provides resources supporting occupational health nurses' roles in such events occurring near or at their workplaces. Occupational health nurses are prepared to assess and treat RDD causalities using current information to identify signs and symptoms of exposed and contaminated RDD victims. Decontamination, treatment, and recovery methods for workers and businesses affected by an RDD event are described.
Too Late Smart
Authors: McCullagh Marjorie , Robertson Cheryl
Published: April 2009

Farmers are exposed to hazardous noise from equipment and livestock and experience high rates of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL); however, their use of hearing protection devices (HPDs) is low. The purpose of this study was to describe farmers' personal experiences using HPDs, influencing others' use of HPDs, and overcoming barriers to the use of HPDs. A purposive sample of farmers who reported a high frequency of HPD use was selected for face-to-face interviews. Findings indicated that farmers have frequent exposure to hazardous noise. They described their motivation to adopt protective behaviors to avoid hearing loss, noise annoyance, or tinnitus. Many tried to influence others' use of HPD, particularly family members. These farmers have developed a variety of methods to ensure convenient access to HPDs when needed, and have developed effective techniques for overcoming common barriers to protection. Findings from this study will be used to form the foundation for future studies aimed at developing and testing an intervention to increase HPD use and decrease rates of NIHL among farmers.
How Can Case Managers Stay Abreast of Community Resources to Support Chronic Health Conditions?
Authors: Brown Norman DePaul
Published: April 2009

The panel approach provides a forum for sharing ideas, viewpoints, and perspectives. Panel members come with expertise from a variety of case management arenas and have agreed to share their opinions and perspectives in response to specific questions or scenarios. Opinions and perspectives are those of the panel members, and do not necessarily represent the views of AAOHN, the Editor, or the Publisher. We encourage readers to submit their questions or scenarios for the panel. This month's panel members include Norman DePaul Brown, Annette B. Haag, and Christine M. Kalina.
Entoptic Phenomenon Following Pars Plana Vitrectomy Caused by Retained Preretinal Gel
Authors: Yavuz Gülderen Aktan , Ünver Yaprak Banu , Sinclair Stephen H.
Published: April 2009

A patient who underwent pars plana vitrectomy for vitreous floaters is described. At the time of surgery, the posterior hyaloid was avulsed and stripped from the posterior retinal surface. Postoperatively, the patient described filamentous and “sea-fan” entoptic phenomena scattered throughout the periaxial vision that were in focus, attached, and “waving” with movement that was counter to the direction of gaze pursuit and demonstrated after movement. The authors believe these structures represent vitreous gel retained at the retinal surface, even though the structures could not be demonstrated by optical coherence tomography or indocyanine green staining at later vitrectomy surgery. This case should raise caution when considering vitrectomy surgery that requires posterior hyaloid stripping in patients with good vision.
[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:188–191.]
Extended Internal Limiting Membrane Peeling in the Management of Unusually Large Macular Holes
Authors: Sabti Khalid Al , Kumar Niranjan , Azad Raj Vardhan
Published: April 2009

This study was conducted to determine the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of internal limiting membrane peeling in the management of large macular moles. Two patients whose eyes had macular holes measuring 1,147 and 773 microns in diameter, respectively, were treated by pars plana vitrectomy with extended internal limiting membrane peeling and the injection of long-acting gas. Preoperative and postoperative assessment of the macular holes was done by optical coherence tomography. Postoperatively, the macular holes closed and there was improvement in visual acuity. Extended internal limiting membrane peeling can be performed to achieve surgical success in very large macular holes.
[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:185–187.]
Transcanalicular Approach to Adult Lacrimal Duct Obstruction: A Review of Instruments and Methods
Authors: Athanasiov Paul A. , Prabhakaran Venkatesh C. , Mannor Geva , Woog John J. , Selva Dinesh
Published: April 2009

Developments in fiberoptic technology and increasing interest in minimally invasive surgery have fueled advances in transcanalicular surgery. This article presents a review of instruments and methods for diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to adult lacrimal drainage obstruction. Available endocanalicular probes, microendoscopes, lasers, microdrills, trephines, and antegrade lacrimal balloon catheters are discussed and compared. Developments in microendoscopy, laser transcanalicular dacryocystorhinostomy, laser canaliculoplasty, transcanalicular drilling and trephination, and transcanalicular balloon dacryoplasty are also discussed in detail. Transcanalicular surgery provides a minimally invasive approach to adult lacrimal drainage obstruction that may also address the pathology causing the obstruction. Long-term success rates of transcanalicular dacryocystorhinostomy appear to be improving, but cost and a paucity of data on long-term results continue to limit the use of transcanalicular surgery.
[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:149–159.]
Early Versus Late Repair of Orbital Blowout Fractures
Authors: Ben Simon Guy J. , Syed Hasan M. , McCann John D. , Goldberg Robert A.
Published: April 2009

Background and Objective:

To compare early and late surgical repair of orbital blowout floor fractures.

Patients and Methods:

A retrospective, comparative interventional case series reviewed medical records of 50 consecutive patients who underwent unilateral orbital floor fracture repair in a 4-year period. Comparative analysis was performed between patients operated on within 2 weeks of injury and those operated on at a later stage.

Results:

Assault, motor vehicle accidents, and sports injuries were the most common causes of injury. Surgery was performed due to inferior rectus muscle entrapment and limitations in up gaze in 20 (40%) patients or to prevent enophthalmos in cases with sig nificant bony orbital expansion in 30 (60%) patients. After surgery, enophthalmos improved an average of 0.8 mm. Limitation in ocular motility improved after surgery but was statistically significant only in up gaze. Patients who underwent early repair (within 2 weeks) achieved less improvement in enophthalmos versus patients who underwent late repair (delta enophthalmos of 0.2 ± 1.1 vs 1.3 ± 1.9 mm, respectively;
P
= .02).

Conclusion:

In these patients, postoperative vertical ductions and postoperative enophthalmos improved after fracture repair. Surgery was associated with a low rate of postoperative complications. No apparent difference in surgical outcome was seen between early (within 2 weeks) and late surgical repair.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:141–148.]
Streptococcus mitis
Endophthalmitis Presenting as Frosted Branch Angiitis After Intravitreal Pegaptanib Sodium Injection
Authors: Chen Eric , Ho Allen C. , Garg Sunir J. , Brown Gary C. , Kaiser Richard S.
Published: April 2009

An 80-year-old woman presented with endophthalmitis and a frosted branch angiitis-like picture following intravitreal injection of pegaptanib sodium for age-related macular degeneration. After vitreous tap and injection of antibiotics, the patient underwent vitrectomy because her clinical condition worsened. Cultures grew
Streptococcus mitis
, and the patient's visual acuity stabilized at hand motions following unsuccessful repair of a retinal detachment complicated by proliferative vitreoretinopathy. Because
S. mitis
can cause an endophthalmitis that presents as frosted branch angiitis, it must be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients who present with frosted branch angiitis.
[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:192–194.]
A Brief History of Optical Coherence Tomography: A Personal Perspective
Authors: Puliafito Carmen A.
Published: April 2009

The historical highlights of the development of optical coherence tomography (OCT) are reviewed.
[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:94–95.]
Comparison of Macular Thickness Between Cirrus HD-OCT and Stratus OCT
Authors: Kakinoki Masashi , Sawada Osamu , Sawada Tomoko , Kawamura Hajime , Ohji Masahito
Published: April 2009

Background and Objective:

To compare macular thicknesses in healthy subjects measured with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) (Cirrus; Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc., Dublin, CA) with measurements using time domain (TDOCT) (Stratus; Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc.).

Patients and Methods:

Macular thickness was measured five times in the same eye of 10 healthy subjects with both Cirrus and Stratus to assess reliability and then once in the same eye of 50 healthy subjects with both Cirrus and Stratus to compare the average obtained by each device.

Results:

Using TD-OCT, the coefficient of variations (CV) of the macular thicknesses within a 1-mm central area ranged from 0.7% to 3.3% (mean, 1.33%); with SD-OCT, the range was 0.2% to 1.3% (mean, 0.66%). The mean CV with SD-OCT was significantly smaller than with TD-OCT (
P
< .05). The average macular thicknesses with TD-OCT and SD-OCT were 197.2 ± 17.8 μm and 257.6 ± 19.6 μm, respectively. However, the correlation was significant (correlation coefficient, 0.916,
P
< .001).

Conclusion:

Cirrus showed better reliability than Stratus. Using SD-OCT, the macula was 60-μm thicker than when measured with TD-OCT. Attention should be given to comparing data obtained using different OCT machines.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:135–140.]
Modified Phototherapeutic Keratectomy Technique for the Treatment of Elevated Corneal Opacities
Authors: Khoury Johnny M. , Salti Haytham , El-Haibi Christelle , Noureddin Baha'
Published: April 2009

A simple modification to the existing phototherapeutic keratectomy techniques to treat elevated corneal opacities is described for a case of severe bilateral macular dystrophy. After epithelial removal, a single drop of carboxymethylcellulose sodium 1.0% was applied centrally on the cornea. A spatula drawn smoothly stretched the drop in all directions without breaking its surface tension until the tip of the highest corneal elevation was seen. Large-diameter phototherapeutic keratectomy for 30-micron ablation was applied. This process was repeated several times, with decreasing amounts of tissue ablation as needed. Postoperative slit-lamp biomicroscopy revealed a smooth corneal surface with no elevated corneal opacities. The patient reported significant improvement with tearing and photophobia. This simple modification from painting to stretching the masking agent, thus transforming it to an ablatable mask, allowed for an effective and practical treatment of elevated corneal opacities. Carboxymethylcellulose sodium 1.0% is nontoxic, biocompatible, and requires no incubation or solidification time.
[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:203–206.]
Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomographic Findings of Occult Macular Dystrophy
Authors: Koizumi Hideki , Maguire Joseph I. , Spaide Richard F.
Published: April 2009

Occult macular dystrophy is a rare macular disorder in which patients have bilaterally decreased visual acuity without any significant ophthalmoscopic findings. Using spectral domain optical coherence tomography, the authors found a defect in the junction between the inner and outer segments of the foveal photoreceptors in a patient with occult macular dystrophy.
[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:174–176.]
Central Serous Chorioretinopathy After Sequential Argon-Neodymium: YAG Laser Iridotomies
Authors: Liu David T. L. , Fan Alex H. , Li Chi-Lai , Lee Vincent Y. W. , Lam Philip T. H. , Lam Dennis S. C.
Published: April 2009

Laser peripheral iridotomy is the standard treatment for acute angle-closure glaucoma. A patient with acute angle-closure glaucoma who developed central serous chorioretinopathy after uneventful laser iridotomies is described. Central serous chorioretinopathy occurring after sequential argon-neodymium:YAG laser peripheral iridotomy is a novel complication in the English literature and is related to the stress induced by both the initial disease and the subsequent procedure, particularly in psychologically susceptible individuals.
[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:177–179.]
Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomographic Imaging of Geographic Atrophy
Authors: Lujan Brandon J. , Rosenfeld Philip J. , Gregori Giovanni , Wang Fenghua , Knighton Robert W. , Feuer William J. , Puliafito Carmen A.
Published: April 2009

Background and Objective:

To compare images of geographic atrophy (GA) obtained using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) with images obtained using fundus autofluorescence (FAF).

Patients and Methods:

Five eyes from patients with dry AMD were imaged using SD-OCT and FAF, and the size and shape of the GA were compared.

Results:

GA appears bright on SD-OCT compared with the surrounding areas with an intact retinal pigment epithelium because of increased reflectivity from the underlying choroid. SD-OCT and FAF both identified GA reproducibly, and measurement of the area of GA is comparable between the two methods with a mean difference of 2.7% of the total area.

Conclusion:

SD-OCT can identify and quantitate areas of GA. The size and shape of these areas correlate well to the areas of GA seen on autofluorescence images; however, SD-OCT imaging also provides important cross-sectional anatomic information.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:96–101.]
Helical Intravitreal Triamcinolone Acetonide Implant: A 6-Month Surgical Feasibility Study in Rabbits
Authors: Mello-Filho Paulo A. A. , Guven Dilek , Beeley Nathan R. F. , de Juan Eugene , Erickson Signe R.
Published: April 2009

Background and Objective:

To investigate the surgical feasibility and safety of a long-term intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (TA) sustained delivery system.

Materials and Methods:

Pigmented rabbits were implanted with sustained-release formulations containing 925 µg of TA within a non-biodegradable polymer coating: Dose A (n = 15) with a slow delivery rate of 1 to 2 µg/day and Dose B (n =15) releasing 3 to 5 µg/day. Additionally, a control group (n = 10) using a device coated with polymer only was implanted. The devices were surgically implanted through a 30-gauge sclerotomy into the vitreous cavity. The animals were clinically observed for up to 6 months after the surgery with complete ophthalmologic examinations. Histologic evaluation of a subset of eyes was performed at the conclusion of the study.

Results:

Implants were successfully implanted in all 40 eyes. Ocular examinations revealed excellent implant tolerability. In all eyes, there was no significant postoperative inflammation at 1 week of follow-up. There was no increase in intraocular pressure during the follow-up period and histologic evaluation demonstrated no significant abnormalities. Minimal and localized vitreous hemorrhage was observed in 22.5% of implanted eyes and mostly cleared at 1 month after surgery. During the 6 months of follow up, localized lens opacities associated with physical implant contact developed in 66.6% of eyes.

Conclusion:

The surgical procedure using the intravitreal TA sustained delivery device is feasible. Surgical complications were generally mild, with lens opacities attributable to unique anatomical features of the rabbit eye. Long-term follow-up and histology revealed excellent implant tolerability.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:160–168.]
Serous Macular Detachment as a Predictor of Resolution of Macular Edema With Intravitreal Triamcinolone Injection
Authors: Shukla Dhananjay , Behera Umesh Chandra , Chakraborty Somnath , Mahalakshmi Rajendran , Prasad Noela Marie
Published: April 2009

Background and Objective:

To evaluate serous macular detachment as a predictor for response of macular edema to intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide.

Patients and Methods:

Sixteen eyes (16 patients) with macular edema and serous macular detachment secondary to diabetic retinopathy (n = 11) or branch vein occlusion (n = 5) were prospectively enrolled. After intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide injection (4 mg/0.1 mL), they were reevaluated at 1 week and 1 and 3 months. The main outcome measure was change in central macular thickness.

Results:

The mean baseline central macular thickness was 651.13 ± 245.96 µm. One month after intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide injection, central macular thickness decreased to 255.38 ± 80.64 µm (
P
< .0001). After 3 months, central macular thickness increased marginally to 329.69 ± 161.98 µm, still significantly less than baseline (
P
< .0001). There was a significant correlation between the height of serous macular detachment and reduction in central macular thickness at 1 (r = .827) and 3 (r = .835) months (
P
< .0001).

Conclusion:

When serous macular detachment coexists with vascular or microvascular macular edema, it responds to intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide in direct proportion to the height of the serous macular detachment. However, the response begins to fade by 3 months.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:115–119.]
Myopic Traction Maculopathy: Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomographic Imaging and a Hypothesized Mechanism
Authors: Smiddy William E. , Kim Sung Soo , Lujan Brandon J. , Gregori Giovanni
Published: April 2009

A patient with progressive visual loss and macular hole development due to progressive myopic traction maculopathy was studied using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). A characteristic, deep retinal schisis-like change was clearly demonstrable. Progression to a full-thickness macular hole was documented. Postoperatively, the macular hole was closed, and the visual acuity was restored. SD-OCT imaging allowed better resolution of macular features but requires evaluation of all scan data. The source of progressive inner retinal traction may be the posterior extension of the staphyloma.
[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2009;40:169–173.]
Effect of thermally activated paper sludge on the mechanical properties and porosity of cement pastes
Authors: Rodríguez O. , Frías M. , Sánchez de Rojas M. I. , García R. , Vigil R.
Published: April 2009

The present article discusses the effect of paper sludge additions, calcined at 700 ºC for two hours, on cement paste pore structure and mechanical strength. Both total and capillary porosity were observed to depend on the percentage of calcined sludge added to the cementitious matrix. While a 10% addition induced values for both slightly higher than the control, adding 20% prompted the opposite result, reducing porosity values with respect to the control. Substantial refinement was observed, with a rise in pores smaller than 0.01 μm (gel pores) when the calcined sludge was added. Such refinement was greater at the higher percentage of sludge. After approximately 15 days, strength was lower in both the additioned pastes compared to the control. A high correlation (R2≥0.939) was found between total porosity and compressive strength for both percentages studied.
Thermodinamically stable phases in the CaO-SiO2-Al2O3-CaSO4-H2O closed system at 25 ºC. Application to cementitious systems
Authors: Martínez-Ramírez S. , Blanco-Varela M. T.
Published: April 2009

One of the chief causes of cement and concrete deterioration is the loss of durability prompted by sulphate attack. The existing standards call for long test periods (2- 12 months). Thermodynamic modelling is a particularly appropriate technique for studying systems that only reach equilibrium in the long term. Used in the present study to establish the fields of thermodynamic stability for the phases in the CaO-SiO2-Al2O3-CaSO4-H2O system at 25 ºC. According to the model, gypsum is stable at sulphate ion concentrations of 1.23e-2 mol/kg and over, while ettringite exhibits stability at concentrations ranging from 7.64e-6 to 1.54e-2 mol/kg. Ettringite is compatible with all system phases except SH and gypsum only with ettringite, the C-S-H gels, AH3 and SH. None of the calcium aluminates or silicoaluminates in the system is compatible with gypsum: in its presence, they all decompose to cement deteriorating ettringite. Finally, the model revealed that the maximum sulphate concentration at which C-S-H gel is stable is slightly higher in systems with than without Al2O3.
Reproductive cycle and sexual maturation of the musky octopus Eledone moschata (Cephalopoda: Octopodidae) in the northern and central Adriatic Sea
Authors: Krstulović Šifner Svjetlana , Vrgoć Nedo
Published: April 2009

Length-weight relationships, sex ratio, maturity patterns, reproductive outputs, fecundity and spawning period of the musky octopus Eledone moschata (Lamarck, 1798) in the northern and central Adriatic Sea are presented for the first time. Samples were collected on a monthly basis by commercial bottom trawls between October 2001 and June 2003. A total of 1552 specimens were analysed (779 males, 764 females, 9 undetermined). The overall sex ratio was close to 1:1, but during summer males were dominant. Length-weight relationships calculated for each sex and the whole sample showed negative allometric growth (b
New insights into the early life ecology of Sardina pilchardus (Walbaum, 1792) in the northern Iberian Atlantic
Authors: Ramos Sandra , Ré Pedro , Bordalo Adriano A.
Published: April 2009

In the Atlantic Iberian estuaries, sardines tend to be a minor component of the ichthyoplankton assemblages, with rare occurrence largely restricted to estuarine mouths. However, this was not the case of the Lima estuary (NW Portugal), where sardines were the most abundant and frequently occurring marine taxon of the larval fish assemblages. Abundance of sardines collected during a two-year survey (2002-2004) ranged from 0.5 to 60.8 larvae/100 m3, with the majority still showing yolk and unpigmented eyes. Moreover, 80% of sardines were 8 days old or less and the total length ranged from 2 to 16 mm. Seasonal variations of sardine occurrence in the Lima estuary correlated with temporal variations of salinity and temperature in the water column. The unusually high river-flow observed during the winter of 2002-2003, which preceded the spring-summer abundance peak, seemed to act as a signal for the estuarine recruitment that was encountered. In addition, the estuarine occurrence of sardine larvae was also correlated with the intensity of summer upwelling, which was responsible for coastal depletion of sardine larvae resulting in estuarine low catches during the summer of 2002. The Lima estuary also revealed another peculiarity related to the lack of temporal synchrony between coastal spawning activity and occurrence of larvae within the estuary. The abundance peaks of newly-hatched larvae (autumn 2002 and spring-summer 2003) did not coincide with the winter-spring spawning pattern described earlier for the northern Iberian coast. Modifications of the spawning strategy of the northern Iberian sardine stock are discussed based on these new insights into the early life of S. pilchardus.
Zoogeographical patterns of flatfish (Pleuronectiformes) parasites in the Northeast Atlantic and the importance of the Portuguese coast as a transitional area
Authors: Ferreira Marques Joana , Santos Maria João , Nogueira Cabral Henrique
Published: April 2009

Parasites are recognised as an excellent source of information on the distribution of their hosts. Here, the macroparasite fauna of 20 species of Pleuronectiformes belonging to five different families and inhabiting the Portuguese coast was investigated and compared with that known in four other areas (the North Sea, north Northeast Atlantic, Mediterranean Sea and Northwest African coast) in order to determine (1) their zoogeographical pattern and (2) the role of the Portuguese coast as an intermediate biogeographic province. Macroparasites infecting Pleuronectiformes sampled along the Portuguese coast were collected using standard parasitological techniques, whereas data on those in the other four areas were obtained from the literature, rendering a total of 73 macroparasite species. Both sets of data were then compiled in a presence/absence matrix. Hosts and macroparasites were placed into zoogeographical categories according to their known distribution, and patterns were evaluated using multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis. The zoogeography of hosts and parasites was not entirely concordant, although that of endoparasites was generally consistent with the patterns for marine free-living species. On the other hand, only specific ectoparasites truly mirrored the distribution of their hosts. These differences reflect the importance of host ecology and dispersal and environmental factors on the patterns revealed. The Portuguese coast seems to play a significant role in the distribution of Pleuronectiformes’ parasites along the Northeast Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea, due to its transitional character and to the sympatric occurrence of related hosts, both promoting the acquisition of new parasite species or the maintenance of historical host-parasite relationships.
Bacterial community structure of mangrove sediments in relation to environmental variables accessed by 16S rRNA gene-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis fingerprinting
Authors: Zhang Yanying , Dong Junde , Yang Bin , Ling Juan , Wang Youshao , Zhang Si
Published: April 2009

Bacterial community structure and the relationship between environmental variables and microbial communities in the surface sediments of tropical mangrove ecosystems were investigated in Sanya, Hainan Island, China. Profiles of bacterial communities were generated using culture-independent PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), and the results were interpreted with multivariate statistical analysis. Findings suggested that microbial communities varied with sample collection sites and seasons. The samples collected from the same sample sites at the same time had more similar microbial communities except samples SH3 and AB5, which also had unique sediment quality. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) revealed that the organic carbon concentration of the sediments accounted for a significant amount of the variability in the bacterial community composition. Phylogenetic analysis was used to identify the major groups of the predominant bacterial phylotypes. 16S rRNA gene-V3 fragments from 17 individual DGGE bands were sequenced and the corresponding bacteria were found in mangrove sediments for the first time based on BLAST results. Predominant bacterial phylotypes clustered with various taxonomic groups, including Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Gemmatimonadetes, Actinobacteria and Firmicutes.
Movement patterns of the spiny lobster Palinurus elephas (Fabricius, 1787) from a central western Mediterranean protected area
Authors: Follesa Maria Cristina , Cuccu Danila , Cannas Rita , Sabatini Andrea , Deiana Anna Maria , Cau Angelo
Published: April 2009

Movement patterns of the spiny lobster Palinurus elephas were determined from 389 individuals (total tagged 5666) tag-recaptured inside a no-take area of the central western Mediterranean and its surrounding zone. High site association and limited movements in tagged lobsters was observed; 60.4% of lobsters moved less than 2 km from the centre of the area (site of release). No clear relationship between lobster movement pattern and sex or size was observed; however, it seemed that the largest males and females tended to be more resident, thus contributing to the rebuilding of the biomass of local lobsters. Most lobsters undertook migrations in the southwest direction. The increased availability of shelters and food towards the southwest could have contributed to the lobsters’ movement. The results of our research indicate that the small size of the protected area and the scale of the movement exhibited by tagged lobsters allows a proportion of the lobster population to move out of the protected area and become susceptible to capture in the adjacent fishery.
La politique orientale de la République tchèque et la Politique européenne de voisinage
Authors: Kratochvíl Petr , Tulmets Elsa
Published: April 2009

Après 1989, les pays d’Europe centrale et orientale ont tous redéfini les priorités de leur politique étrangère, les orientant vers l’Ouest. Que sont devenues les relations avec les pays de l’ancien bloc soviétique ? Cet article est consacré à la politique de la République tchèque à l’Est et à la participation de ce pays à la Politique européenne de voisinage (PEV). La PEV, lancée en 2003 par l’Union européenne, s’adresse aux pays voisins de l’Union élargie. À l’heure actuelle, la République tchèque est le seul nouvel État membre à ne pas avoir de frontière commune avec des pays non-membres de l’UE : quel intérêt la République tchèque manifeste-t-elle pour la PEV ? Sa participation est-elle réelle ou relève-t-elle plutôt du discours politique ?
Interdisciplinary re-imagining of the concept of revelation
Authors: Veldsman Daniël P.
Published: April 2009

For the postfoundationalist Wentzel van Huyssteen, the James I McCord Professor of Theology and Science at Princeton Theological Seminary, USA, the problem of rationality has been the dominant and persuasive theme of his scholarship for more than three decades. ‘To understand understanding’ can be the shorthand description of his scholarly quest. In his published Gifford Lectures, Alone in the World? (2006), he explores from an interdisciplinary perspective the concept of human uniqueness and the imago Dei – an exercise in transversal reasoning as he calls it. It is an exercise that according to Van Huyssteen, stems from the conviction that evolutionary epistemology creates a natural space for postfoundationalism, and that transversal reasoning represents the performative praxis of postfoundationalism. The question immediately arises from this exciting and promising interdisciplinary exercise, if and how the concept of revelation which represents (in most religions) a constitutive element of religious experience can be understood from a postfoundational perspective as an exercise in transversal reasoning. Against the background of a limited overview of contemporary influential models of revelation, as well as brief notes on natural theology, I will make use of Ricoeur’s a-religious understanding of revelation as theological interlocutor for this critical dialogue with Van Huyssteen. Finally I will formulate a tentative framework within which the concept of ‘revelation’ can be re-imagined from an interdisciplinary perspective so that it can be part of the post-modern theology-science conversation in such a manner to maintain its identity without retreating to an esoteric world of private, insular knowledge claims.
Psychometric properties of the Experience of Work and Life Circumstances Questionnaire and the Hopkins Symptom Checklist
Authors: Oosthuizen Rudolf M. , Koortzen Pieter
Published: April 2009

The aim of this research was to investigate the reliability and validity of the Experience of Work and Life Circumstances Questionnaire and the Hopkins Symptom Checklist when administered to a convenience sample of 241 fire-fighters from a metropolitan municipality. The results indicate that these two measuring instruments yielded acceptable internal-consistency reliability coefficients for most of the subscales of the questionnaires. Construct validity was investigated by means of exploratory factor analysis. It was concluded that the measuring instruments are fit to be used for diagnostic and developmental purposes and during counselling to enhance the psychological wellbeing of fire-fighters and their families.
Cosmetics
Authors: Rieger Martin M.
Published: April 2009

Cosmetics are products created by the cosmetic industry and marketed directly to consumers. The cosmetic industry is dominated by manufacturers of finished products, who sell products to distributors as well as suppliers of raw and packaging materials. Cosmetics represent a large group of consumer products designed to improve the health, cleanliness, and physical appearance of the human exterior and to protect body parts against damage from the environment. The difference between a cosmetic and a drug is often confusing. The FDA defines a cosmetic as a drug if there is a claim for pharmacological activity. Such products are considered over‐the‐counter drugs. Cosmetics, regardless of form, can be grouped into seven categories: 1, skin care and maintenance; 2. cleansing; 3. odor improvement; 4. hair removal; 5. hair care and maintenance; 6. maintenance of mucous membranes; and 7. decorative cosmetics. All of these categries are discussed as well safety and other product requirements, regulations, and economics.
Diamond, Natural
Authors: Shigley James
Published: April 2009

Naturally occurring diamond is a relatively rare polymorph of carbon characterized by a 3‐D arrangement of tetrahedrally coordinated carbon atoms. Diamonds occur in several major kinds of deposits, primary and secondary (both alluvial and littorial). In primary deposits, they are enclosed in host rocks of kimberlite or lamproite that form pipes that are downward‐tapering, cone shape structures of igneous origin. Erosion of these deposits lead to the formation of diamonds in river beds and terraces. Separation of diamonds from their associated rocks include crushing, screening, and sieving, use of grease belts, suspension in heavy or dense media, and sorters. Diamond crystals are sorted into many categories depending on size, color, clarity. and shape. The four types of diamonds are Types Ia, Ib, IIa, and IIb. The types are based on the presence or absence of nitrogen and boron. Both natural and synthetic diamonds have the highest hardness of all known materials. Diamond's unique properties permit it to be foremost in applications such as gemstones, as an abrasive in cutting, drilling, sawing, machining, grinding, and polishing. Diamond bort, grit, dust, and stones are recyclable.
Diamond, Synthetic
Authors: Wentorf R. H.
Published: April 2009

Interest in the synthesis of diamonds was first stimulated by Lavoisier's discovery that diamond was simply carbon. In the attempt at diamond synthesis, much unsuccessful effort was devoted to processes that deposited carbon at low, graphite stable pressure. New high pressure apparatus was built, rebuilt, and sometimes discarded. Months after operating pressures of 7GPa had been attained, a reproducible diamond synthesis was finally achieved. The two major innovations in diamond technology are the reproducible high temperature‐high pressure process with metal solvent/catalyst and the low pressure sustained growth from methane‐hydrogen (CVD). Direct graphite to diamond processes are also discussed. Synthetic diamonds are used as gemstones. CVD processes have been used to produce single crystal diamonds. Synthetic diamonds have many industrial uses: as grit and powder in diamond grinding wheels, saws, polishing, thermal management, electronic applications and electrochemical uses. Polycrystalline diamonds are also discussed.
Fluorine Compounds, Inorganic, Introduction
Authors: Lindahl Charles B. , Mahmood Tariq
Published: April 2009

Fluorine, the most electronegative element, is much more reactive than the other elements. Fluorine reacts virtually with every other element, including the helium goup gases. The basic fluorine‐containing minerals are fluorite (commonly called fluorspar). and fluorapatite, commonly called phosphate rock. The reaction of calcium fluoride and sulfuric acid produces hydrogen fluoride. Fluorosilic acid is produced from fluorapatite as a by‐product in the production of phosphoric acid. Most inorganic fluorides are produced by the reaction of hydrofluoric acid(HF) with oxides, carbonates, hydroxides, chlorides, or metals. Fluorspar is not produced in the United States. Most of the U.S.'s supply comes from China and Mexico. Health hazards associated with fluorides are severe. Hydrogen fluoride is the most important compound of the fluorides. It is the primary feedstock for producing inorganic and organic fluorine‐bearing compounds. Aluminum fluoride is is used in aluminum smelting. Fluorspar is recovered from uranium enrichment, petroleum alkylation, and stainless steel pickeling. HF can be recycled from petroleum alkylation.